At the stable in the Netherworld, the unexpected visitor bore eyes of
disdain.
"What a tragedy, for the heroic god of the lost age to have become so
lowly and diminutive, like a domesticated animal... There should be limits
to uselessness, please have some shame."
"No, even if you call me an animal. It is just as you see, I am an animal
from the very beginning."
Severely admonished by the beautiful Cult Leader Luo Hao, the monkey
divine monarch simply nodded, completely unfazed.
That's right, he was a monkey from the start. Just as Godou was thinking --
[1]"...Wakoku's king , are you thinking something disrespectful?"
Eh! Godou received a stern stare from the cult leader.
Godou was very shocked. Clearly he hadn't said a single word, but how
were his thoughts known!?
"Foolish, I, Luo Hao, have reached the pinnacle of martial arts, and I am
the one called the Ruler of the Martial Realm. Your insolent thoughts are
apparent from the change in facial expressions."
Is that so? ...No, wait a minute.
Impressed with her feat, Godou immediately began to ponder. In other
words, she only guessed?
No matter what, the other person was a Campione. Godou was initially
scared that 'this woman can read minds!?' but it turned out to be something
different.
"Another disrespectful thought. What a shame, Wakoku's king sure lacks
manners."
Luo Hao quietly expressed her dissatisfaction.
She was guessing after all, no, not exactly guessing but deducing the
other's inner thoughts through the subtle change in expression. Even so,
her sight was amazing.
"If you weren't a [King] as my peer, I would absolutely not forgive your
insolence, and you will surely be punished accordingly. However, as your
senior along the same path of domination, I shall generously forgive you.
Thank me well."
"...Thank you very much."
This person probably looked down on everyone with those eyes of
despise.
Every single Campione Godou has met turned out to be weirdos with
various peculiarities. To avoid her judging himself as being rude, Godou
was determined to maintain an expressionless poker face.
"The same applies to those two miko there. Normally, anyone who lays
eyes on my appearance has to be punished."
Speaking dangerous words, Cult Leader Luo Hao gazed upon the miko
sisters.
Even the bold Hikari could only say "S-Sorry!" in fear, while Yuri
suppressed her own trembling body and tightly held and protected her
younger sister, replying "I-If we must be punished for our insolence, please
cast all judgment upon me as the older sister!"
The two have clearly lost their calm.
It was likely the result of the icy oppressive presence born from Luo Hao's
beauty and splendor.
In truth, she was even more terrifying than Marquis Voban in certain ways.
At least that elderly man had an intellectual facade which felt like a certain
level of dialogue could be undertaken. But Luo Hao was different. In
complete contrast, it felt like she would instantly order your beheading if
you spoke out of line.
"You miko must know your place, and restrain yourselves from addressing
I, Luo Hao. Currently I am having a conversation with my peers, a [King]
and a god, and have no intention of letting you in my sight."
"S-Sorry."
"Our utmost apologies, Your Eminence!"
The declaration made with an inorganic voice, made the two sisters
tremble incessantly.
Cult Leader Luo Hao's words of reproach were not out of wrath, but fell
under disinterest.
"May I ask, if they are not allowed to look at you directly, how could they
converse?"
Though he expected some kind of unreasonable answer, Godou still felt
like asking.
"Someone of my stature obviously cannot have a direct conversation with
commoners. Those who lay eyes on my body must gouge out their own
eyes; those who hear my voice must cut off their ears in penance. But
since there are extenuating circumstances right now, I will let it pass."
"Don't talk like those emperors of the past! If you don't want to be seen,
just cower behind a veil or a curtain!"
Hearing her surprising answer, Godou could not help disapproving.
But even more extreme twisted logic came out of the cult leader's mouth.
"...You're called Kusanagi whatever, is that correct? King Kusanagi, your
argument is mistaken. I am the martial pinnacle far surpassing all
emperors, conquerors and generals of the past and present, oriental or
occidental. Thus entitling me to enjoy prestige beyond the comparison of
any other ruler. This is what is known as hierarchy."
Uttered with the same natural tone of voice as one would say "gravity
exists on earth," she expressed this most ridiculous point of view.
These outrageous words completely killed off the sense of beauty and
perfect cleverness displayed by Cult Leader Luo Hao.
"So, if you say you are more amazing than any emperor or king in history,
what evidence do you have?"
"Obviously my authority and martial arts. Luo Cuilian can slaughter
thousands of soldiers with a simple punch or kick, and slay tens of
thousands with just a wave of a blade or a spear. Were I to display the true
essence of martial arts, mighty armies of millions will be turned into
mountains of corpses and rivers of blood. All lands will be wiped out,
leaving nothing but mountains and rivers."
"No! Could you think a little more along the lines of politics, economy or
culture!"
Godou needed to confirm just in case, but it really was as expected,
perhaps she was even more dangerous than Doni or Voban? The
previously known devil kings still maintained some manner of social life,
but Cult Leader Luo Hao seemed to be an exception? A fellow with a
completely abnormal outlook on life.
Godou decided to change his current goal.
Impossible to communicate with her normally, it would be better to discuss
the current pressing concern.
"Just now you said you were going to fight the monkey god? Let's ignore
the matters of your sudden appearance and illegal trespassing for now.
But please tell me, why?"
"To exterminate this god."
Cult Leader Luo Hao replied immediately.
The monkey acted completely unconcerned, and maintained that cheerful
smiling expression. Godou turned to face Luo Hao once again.
"Clearly the hero of my country, but to be raised as a pet to play with the
Japanese... His crimes are completely unforgivable. Knowing this kind of
fellow exists, I, Luo Hao cannot allow him to live for it would be a taint to
my honor. That is why from a long time ago, I have waited for the
opportunity to carry out judgment."
"Ah... So you came to Japan specifically for this reason?"
Come to think of it, Sayanomiya Kaoru also mentioned he was a
"troublesome god."
It looked like things were very complicated, but Godou had no interest in
the details. Deciding it was better not to know, Godou asked the monkey
god:
"So if that's the case, how about you guys duke it out right here? If it's the
Netherworld, there shouldn't be any harm to the human world, right?"
"Yes, you are thinking 'this way, it has nothing to do with me', it is
completely obvious."
Godou did not refute the monkey divine monarch's criticism.
"Yes, that is completely right... But if you have a century-long grudge like
this, it's not something I can interfere. As long as it doesn't affect human
society, anyway you handle it is fine."
"Though righteousness is a virtue, in a situation like this, I'd say you are
tactless."
"What does that have to do with anything!? Every time I'm forced to fight
with gods and devil kings, I can't stand it!"
Hearing Godou's objections, the monkey divine monarch stroked the fur on
his chin.
"The fellow who built this palace used wizardry to seal my divinity of
violence. Thanks to that, a [Heretic God] became a monkey that only jokes
around, however --"
The monkey, who claimed to only joke around, gazed at Cult Leader Luo
Hao with troublesome eyes.
"This friend here, perhaps would like to restore my original nature for some
reason. That would require satisfying some complicated conditions, but her
sneaking in here is indicative of her preparedness... But let me remind you
all, once I recover my heretical self, it is likely that I will return to the real
world like a flash of lightning."
"W-Why?"
"There's no one here in the Netherworld, my heretical self would find it
completely uninteresting. Whether playing practical jokes or causing
trouble for others, it's only fun if there are the people of the world as
targets."
In other words, protecting human society from the evil clutches of the
monkey divine monarch meant getting in Cult Leader Luo Hao's way --
Godou looked in shock at the transcendent beauty.
The living legend who lacked both common sense and understanding of
the mundane world. However, his instincts as a Campione warned him that
she was very dangerous. As an opponent in battle, she likely belonged to
the worst type...!
"Despite your useless appearance, you are surprisingly self-aware. Then
things are easy."
As if commanding the world, Cult Leader Luo Hao made her declaration:
"You shall be revived next, and I will dispel the curse of the [Keeper of the
Horses]. Is that all?"
"T-Then the reason that miko holds the treasure blade, was also your
doing? That is why I felt it was strange, clearly there are no dragons here,
but they brought that thing along."
[2]Looking at Zanryuutou in Hikari's arms, the monkey divine monarch
began to grumble.
"There are three conditions to temporarily release the [Keeper of the
Horses] spell that seals me in this place. First, the appearance of a dragon
or snake deity, the enemy of my kind. Secondly, the treasure blade that
cuts and weakens spells. Third of all, a disaster purification capable
Hime-Miko must wield the treasure blade to use spirit powers."
In other words, Zanryuutou was a treasure that should only be used in
crisis situations?
Godou began to agitate, could the Kuhoudzuka gentleman be in cahoots
with the cult leader? Or was he being threatened...
"Preparing a dragon or a snake deity is the most troublesome -- However,
someone happened to offer herself as a sacrifice, so it's resolved. Despite
my unparalleled might, capturing a god alive still poses a challenge.
Originally, I had already prepared myself to give up on another chance to
fight you."
Magical power suddenly increased.
The demonic cult leader's body suddenly released vast amounts of
magical power.
Godou could tell that she did not activate an authority. Otherwise, his skin
would be able to sense danger, just like the time when he witnessed
Marquis Voban's authority.
However, this enormous amount of magical power completely dwarfed the
magic used by Erica and Liliana. From this it was certain, Cult Leader Luo
Hao was a spell practitioner far surpassing the magi in Godou's company.
[3]
"Now that a candle-shadow stands on the screen of carven marble --"From the beauty's throat came a lyrical rhythm, reminiscent of harmonious
melodies. It was a soothing beautiful voice.
"And the River of Heaven slants and the morning stars are low / Are you
sorry for having stolen the potion that has set you / Over purple seas and
blue skies, to brood through the long nights?"
This was a magical incantation.
But Cult Leader Luo Hao recited it with great musicality.
Godou immediately regretted calling her weird. The reason why her
character was so problematic was precisely due to her natural talent and
well-honed skills. In that instant, such a thought entered Godou's mind.
[4]
"Whom can the lonely Moon Goddess take as her neighbor!"Finally finishing her spell, what was going to happen?
Godou cautiously surveyed the surroundings, Yuri nodded, and then Hikari
--
Held by her older sister, Hikari forcefully pushed her arm aside, and with
hollow eyes, drew out the treasured blade, Zanryuutou, from its sheath of
white wood.
"Godou-san! That treasured blade is the key for releasing the divine
monarch's seal, and Cult Leader Luo Hao has injected massive amounts of
magic to awaken the blade, and released the spell sealing the blade! Hikari
has also been caught up in it!"
Yuri yelled out loudly having used her spirit vision, and there was no time
to hesitate!
"Wait... Wait a minute! Luo Hao, hold it for a second! Are you planning on
letting that monkey descend on the earth and cause havoc!?"
Eschewing honorifics, Godou reproached Luo Hao. Somehow he could
never harbor any respect for elders when facing these fellows called
Campiones, how vexing.
"Aren't you a very great king? Then please think of the people!"
"You are correct, I am the Ruler of the Martial Realm, the conqueror that
none may oppose. My will is the will of the heavens and the truth of the
earth. However, in my view, humans are undeserving of mercy or
benevolence. From the perspective of the earth and the sky, it is debatable
whether human existence is good or bad..."
How could such a problematic character obtain divine authority?
Watching the cult leader convinced of her righteousness, Godou sighed.
Damn it. Looks like words were a waste of breath, and only brute force
remained...! As he made his decision, the transcendent beauty smiled. It
was a spectacular otherworldly expression that added great color to her
existing beauty.
"I see, my young eagle was right sometimes."
Right about what? Godou was puzzled.
"To come here to Wakoku where the young devil king was born, as long as
trouble was caused in his territory, a conflict with him was unavoidable no
matter what. Only a king can match another king, which is why he urged
me to come here -- hohoho, who would have thought his words were so
prophetic?"
Cult Leader Luo Hao drew near lightly.
Danger -- just as the thought entered Godou's mind, his shoulder was
caught.
"King Kusanagi, thank the heavens that you have the chance to learn from
and exchange blows with the martial pinnacle. I will treat you as my
obstacle, and defeat you with the martial arts of Luo Hao!"
In the instant the cult leader waved her wrist, Godou found himself flung
high in the sky.
Godou's body crashed through the roof of the stable and flew up into the
heavens.
To think her arm strength could be this horrifying! Or was it a mystic martial
arts technique!? Watching the increasingly wide and complete view of the
Chinese-style palace beneath him, Godou trembled in fear.
Part 2
It was not long after meeting Lu Yinghua and the girl named Asherah.
Erica felt enormous amounts of magical power exploding from somewhere
nearby. Someone was clearly using high level magic, and the powerful
aftershock could be felt from far away. This was definitely no ordinary spell.
"Lily!"
"I know, wait up a little!"
With just a brief command from Erica, the silver-haired friend responded
immediately. Possessing a witch's disposition, her senses were more
acute than typical magi, and she could sense magical presences and their
flow much better than ordinary people.
Liliana surveyed the surroundings and began to search for the location of
cataclysm.
"Her Eminence seems to have started, Lu Yinghua, I will fly to the
appointed location."
Asherah's lips maintained a smile as she spoke.
As if jeering the great knights for their immaturity, it was a smile full of
confidence and mockery. On the other hand, her companion was coldly
muttering "it's finally here."
"You go and start first, I'll be there shortly."
Erica could hardly believe her hearing. Go and start first?
[5]Lu Yinghua, highly renowned for his outstanding qinggong , allowing
another to arrive before him? Could this girl be -- Asherah's body was
surrounding by blue light, and she took off like fireworks, her continuously
ascending figure flying through the air like a comet.
[Flight] magic! Erica's suspicions were correct.
The spell allowing free flight through the skies, could only be used by
people possessing dispositions to be witches (or similar miko). All other
practitioners of magic had to summon flying equipment and ride upon
them. Even so, no other witch had that kind of speed.
"You people -- no, what is Cult Leader Luo Hao planning! Answer me,
martial artist!"
Liliana questioned the remaining Lu Yinghua.
However, the young Hong Kong-born martial artist smiled with supercilious
derision, ignoring the question.
"You can simply find out for yourself in a little while. Goodbye, Nee-san! If
you want a fight, then wait until my master arrives!"
Lu Yinghua fled directly.
It wasn't normal running, but the magic that Liliana and Erica called [Leap],
using supernatural leg strength and jumping power to run as if flying
through the air, a spell for rapid mobility that rivaled the speed of wild
beasts or vehicles.
"Erica, I will follow that fellow! See you later!"
As Liliana yelled out, she used [Leap] as well.
Though Erica could also use this magic, her speed and jumping ability was
inferior to Liliana.
Unlike the technique of [Flight], [Leap] was classified under physical
techniques and martial arts. But as a witch, Liliana was naturally born light
because a witch's disposition conferred advantages over typical magic
practitioners not only in flying, but also every kind of magic related to
mobility.
--Yet in spite of that, she still could not catch up to Lu Yinghua.
Liliana was greatly surprised to find the figure before her growing
increasingly distant.
Her prided [Leap] was what Chinese martial artists termed [Qinggong]. Lu
Yinghua's outstanding qinggong allowed him to move faster and jump
higher than anyone else.
Instead of the witch, he was one who had reached the limits of bodily
techniques and martial arts.
"No way, Lily! Not even you can match his speed and lightness of body!"
Erica called from behind to stop the silver-haired girl.
The only way to surpass that kind of speed was [Flight], but in order to use
that magic spell, it was necessary to know the destination, which made it
unsuitable for pursuit.
"Investigate where magic spells have been used. As long as we identify
the location of the cataclysm and head there directly, it could very well be a
shortcut."
Seeing Liliana returning with dismay, Erica decided to play a little joke.
"By the way, Lily, isn't it just like I described?"
"What?"
"Just as I said earlier, charging forth without consideration, that is your true
character."
"--!? Just now was because I had no idea of the other's abilities! Next time I
will face my opponents with greater calm and intelligence. Someday, I will
cease to be played around by an adviser like you!"
The silver-haired knight objected with her face red. Looks like her defeat
did affect her spirit.
"Is that so? Well then let's create an opportunity to strike back. Lily, check
out the surroundings to see what kind of magic has been used."
In response to Erica's request, Liliana closed her eyes and concentrated.
Searching for nearby traces of magic and spiritual conditions was the
technique of [Magic Investigation], one from a witch's prided arsenal of
investigative spells. In many areas, Liliana was actually a much more
talented mage than Erica.
"-- In the north there is a shrine hidden by magic, with a very suspicious
barrier. That should be the location of Saitenguu, and the large magic felt
just now is also being carried out over there."
"So it is Cult Leader Luo Hao's spell after all?"
Erica concluded from Liliana's report.
"Probably a spell related to the other world, this is great magic that
normally requires several tens of magi to perform. For her to do it alone... I
will lead the way, follow me."
This time the two of them charged forward using [Leap].
In just a few minutes, they reached the shrine north of Futarasan Shrine.
Liliana went forth into the depths and found a small shrine, as well as the
[6]shimenawa lying on the ground. The Kuhoudzuka gentleman was laid
fallen on the ground.
"Just unconscious."
"Dominated by mental magic for such a long period, and continuously
deprived of sleep for several days, they really went too far."
The young master of the Kuhoudzuka family was staring off into space, his
eyes completely out of focus. His slightly opened lips did not speak as
Liliana and Erica studied him and nodded to each other.
"This is Saitenguu without a doubt, so where is Kusanagi Godou and the
others?"
"And no sign of Amakasu-san either."
Immediately afterwards, the change in the sky happened.
This was the autumn sky of the setting sun. Though it was still very bright,
everything would be a shade of orange in about an hour.
In the corner of the sky -- right above Nikkou Mountain appeared a large
serpent.
From the perspective of the ground, the snake's body length was roughly
several tens of meters. The exceptionally long snake's body was covered
with silvery-white scales. However, it lacked the usual feeling of disgust
when one saw a snake, rather, there was an attractive feeling of strong
and solemn beauty.
"A Heretic God... Heretic Leviathan...!"
Liliana suddenly cried out.
Was this spirit vision! Hearing the name that could not be ignored, Erica
held her breath.
"Lily you said Leviathan just now, right? The name of that snake deity?"
"Yes, no mistake, I did see the divine name of the god. If Mariya Yuri was
here, her spirit vision would likely see through her entire past and origin..."
When encountering a mother earth deity, a witch's powers will temporarily
amplify. Dragon and snake deities also belonged to this lineage, and
produced the same effect. Hearing Liliana's explanation, Erica began to
ponder.
"...Half a month ago, there seemed to be a [Heretic God] that appeared at
Los Angeles. From the appearance of the giant serpent described in the
Witenagemot's report, it was most likely the deity Leviathan."
"The deity defeated by John Pluto Smith."
"Yes, it should have been summoned by rituals of the sorcerers of the
[King of Flies]... I've heard before that their leader was the witch named
Asherah."
"The witch just now was also called Asherah, and came from Los
Angeles."
The silver-haired childhood friend had noticed.
"And then Leviathan has also appeared, so we can conclude it is the same
person. Furthermore, I've noticed something else. Even the strongest
sorcerer cannot summon a [Heretic God] alone, don't you find it
suspicious?"
"Of course it is impossible, if it could be done... No, could it be -- a divine
ancestor?"
Amongst magi, there were secret myths in circulation.
For example, amongst the great mother goddesses of the earth conquered
by dragon-slayers like Perseus, there were those who were weakened,
fallen, or driven from their divine thrones. They were the witches known as
[Divine Ancestors].
Human in form, but not human.
Possessing supernatural powers surpassing humans but inferior to gods,
these girls remained forever young and never succumbed to old age.
By abandoning their eternal longevity, they could regain their unruly divinity
of the mother earth goddess, or in other words, revive themselves in the
form of a dragon or snake god...
"Could the leader of the [King of Flies] be an authentic divine ancestor...?"
[7]"The name Asherah, was probably derived from Athirat. The sea
monster Leviathan that first appeared in the Old Testament of the Bible
and began circulating in other myths, was also a reference to the
Mesopotamian goddess Asherah which was treated as an evil beast."
The two of them looked up at the sky once again.
Somehow, distributed all over Leviathan's body were all sorts of wounds,
big and small.
Blood constantly flowed out from the wounds, and because the snake deity
was hovering in the air, the blood naturally fell upon the earth.
Bright crimson blood descended like rain and mist, and was dyeing Nikkou
Mountain red everywhere!
"What is going on in there...!?"
Erica worried as she watched the depths of darkness beyond the gridded
door to the shrine.
Part 3
Crashing through the roof of the stable, Godou's body flew up into the sky.
Luo Hao shook the sleeves of her robe and flew in the air, chasing after
the Campione she had thrown outside. This was not a metaphor, she was
literally flying.
[8][Flight] magic that flew like a bird in the sky. This was a Daoist art which
was only possible for Daoist priestesses possessing a witch's disposition.
Like Liliana Kranjcar, Luo Hao was someone who the Europeans would
call a witch.
The strange happenings in the stable did not end there.
Yuri was terrified by the changes in her younger sister and the monkey
divine monarch.
"Akashiura is hazy with in the morning mist / On the boat to the secluded
island, old friends are reminisced."
Chanting the spell song, Hikari brandished the kodachi.
Slicing at the eastern position, slicing at the southern position, slicing at the
western position, slicing at the northern position. Currently, the one
controlling the younger sister's motions was the kodachi -- infused in
Zanryuutou was some unknown spell.
"Male--yang, female--yin, their union results in conception, thus beginning
pregnancy. Carried to term after ten months and born as human, yet to
[9]
leave my body but already knows Hito-maru."Taking clumsy footsteps circling around the monkey divine monarch, Hikari
waved the sword as she chanted.
--The entrance to the corridor that connected the real world to the
Netherworld, that four-sided hole was originally just the size for a human to
pass through. It had now enlarged suddenly, and even the walls of the
stable had expanded as well.
Seeing the reddened sky of dusk, this was clearly the scenery on earth, the
sky of the real world.
And far in the distance was something hovering, Yuri focused her gaze
and saw a coiled snake -- floating in the air, with blood red mist and rain
descending upon the earth!
"Hoho, that snake deity looks heavily injured."
The monkey divine monarch had turned into stone at some point in time,
and was completely unable to move.
Once this stone was cracked open like the shell of an egg, the monkey
divine monarch will be reborn as a [Heretic God]! Under the direction of
spirit vision, Yuri believed without a doubt.
"I am a member of steel, a god born under the stars to crusade against
dragons and snakes. Thus the blood and divine power of dragons and
snakes shall rouse me, and act as poison that forces me to recall my
violent nature. Hohoho, now that I think about it, the leisurely life of a
monkey wasn't bad at all. Oh, what a shame, what a shame!"
Even after being turned into a stone monkey, the monkey divine monarch
continued to speak as before, without any change in his frivolous tone.
But within that tone of voice, one could sense there was an extremely
powerful feeling mixed inside.
With the entire body petrified, only the eyes kept their fleshy form.
Somehow the eyes had turned red, with the white of the eyeballs now
completely red in color, except for the golden colored pupils.
--Fiery eyes and golden pupils, these were the holy eyes possessed by the
Chinese sacred beast.
"Divine Monarch-sama, please could you remain calm! I beg you, please!"
"I would like to, but it is impossible. I guess this is basically like being
drunk... No... More like drunk in blood."
The monkey divine monarch replied to Yuri in an aloof manner.
As if unwilling to let himself be tainted by the dirt of the common world, a
voice sounding like a member of some divine clan.
"Anyway, change is the only constant in this universe. Everything beyond
an inch is enshrouded in darkness. That Rakshasa girl could very well
betray me in a critical moment. Just in case, I should prepare beforehand."
The stone monkey's eyes gave off golden light.
"Miko, infuse your power into the treasured blade, fill it to the limit until the
vessel saturates, use all the power you possess."
"The flow of blood is the father and mother's flow of blood. When the flow
of blood ends, so does life, the god of the flow of blood --"
Hikari held Zanryuutou up high.
Yuri could sense her sister using spell words constantly, infusing the spirit
power of disaster purification into Zanryuutou, entering the
evil-vanquishing, curse-lifting, treasured blade blessed with fortune!
"--!? Please do not let this continue!"
"Hahaha, pray forgive me, but I also need to use this miko's power and
body!"
It seems like even in such a state, the divine monarch was still able to use
a portion of his divine power.
Though she had no idea what intentions he had with Hikari, there was no
time to hesitate. It was imperative to leave here as quickly as possible!
Silent, Yuri began to concentrate.
After ten-odd seconds, she very carefully rushed to her sister's body, and
attempted to use [Transfer].
Instantaneous movement from one place to another, it was a method of
mobility that could only be used in the Netherworld.
It was not possible to escape the barrier imprisoning the monkey divine
monarch. This was already confirmed a while ago, but she could target the
palace visible outside, in other words, the place where Kusanagi Godou
was currently in a crisis.
Originally, the power of spirit vision could not be used freely.
But in the Netherworld, it could be freely controlled.
Connecting her consciousness to the Memories of the Void in this world,
using spirit vision to capture the situation in the surroundings of the stable,
and performing a transfer towards the image obtained...!
The result was a success, Yuri and Hikari's bodies began to transfer
instantaneously.
Her eyes dull, the younger sister was silent, staring motionlessly in her
embrace. What a relief, Yuri finally relaxed and took a deep breath, having
successfully escaped.
"Ah, you're planning on escaping? Fine, my body hasn't regained its
freedom yet. Do whatever you want for now, I am looking forward to the
game of hide-and-seek later."
Just as they disappeared, Yuri heard the monkey god's words.
She heard the declaration of the [Heretic God] who loved playing jokes on
others and causing havoc in the world. Furthermore, Hikari's hand had lost
strength and let go of Zanryuutou, leaving it behind in the stable of the
stone monkey.
Part 4
After flying high through the air, obviously one would eventually fall
towards the ground.
Even in a mysterious realm like the Netherworld, gravity still existed.
Clearly there was no need for gravitational attraction in such a place,
Godou could not stop cursing.
At his current height, he could see the full view of the city.
It was even wider than he imagined. Rather, too wide. The city was
enclosed within the city walls, approximating a square with each side
roughly one kilometre or so. Within the walls were all sorts of buildings,
large and small.
There seemed to be three or four buildings that could be called palaces,
and very likely had names like something court or whatever palace.
There were a countless number of smaller buildings, probably numbering
over a hundred.
The city walls were very tall, over ten metres, and there were watch towers
built on the walls.
--As he watched this magnificent cluster of buildings, Godou began to fall.
"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!?"
This all happened within the span of a few seconds.
Returning to the surface at last, Godou had fallen onto the stone paved
ground of something like plaza.
And then he had a great surprise. It didn't hurt much! He had scratches all
over, but that was due to crashing through the roof.
Falling from a nightmarish height onto hard ground without any injuries, it
was impossible. Besides, humans should be falling headfirst due to the
distribution of weight, and Godou could not help but shiver.
A judo master could control the damage when throwing an opponent, but
that was a technique that was only possible while the thrower continued to
hold on to the opponent's body. Luo Hao had completely let go and directly
tossed Godou into the sky.
--"The pinnacle of martial arts" was what the cult leader had said.
In other words, she was a master who could easily perform such
miraculous feats that went beyond common sense!
"After all, a spar should take place in a wide open area. King Kusanagi, I
hold no grudge against you. This is just a one-time minor punishment.
Once you admit how foolish you are, I shall forgive you."
Cult Leader Luo Hao declared as she landed from the air.
"How am I foolish, you tell me instead! I don't have anything that requires
your instruction!"
"Opposing Luo Hao's decree, if not foolish then what kind of behavior is it?
Small knowledge does not reach to large knowledge, and small years do
not reach to large years. The dawn-to-dusk fungus does not know the
compass of a single month, the one-season cicada cannot know both
[10]
spring and fall. Is that not just pitiful?"Admittedly, Godou's upbringing was inferior to hers, and being called
foolish was not wrong, but there were some subtle parts that he couldn't
understand.
And then, by the time Godou realized it, the transcendent beauty was
already standing right in front of him.
Hmm--? When did she approach? He completely failed to react.
Luo Hao's crystal-like hand grabbed his shoulder, and flung him high into
the air again, Godou felt like he was swimming in the sky once again. Then
he fell, and this time it hurt more than the last.
A third grab. Thrown, swimming, falling, the more powerful impact than the
last made him feel out of breath.
The fourth time. The same action was repeated again, and the pain in his
back increased. This time, the back of his head was also hit.
As the injuries gradually piled up on his body, Godou realized she had
complete control! Terrified, Godou was certain he would really be in trouble
if he doesn't escape from this endless cycle.
While being thrown, he also noticed something --
Godou activated Verethragna's authority -- the [Bull] form, the special
ability which granted mighty strength when facing opponents with
monstrous strength.
Luo Hao caught him for the fifth time.
Lowering his stance, he stepped hard against the ground. In order to
prevent himself from being thrown, Godou released his mighty strength.
"Oh... Hohoho, looks like you have a bit of a backbone."
The cult leader showed a gorgeous smile. Her icy cool beauty remained
the same, but once she began to rampage, a certain sense of charm
appeared in her demeanor.
What was with this person, Godou was speechless as he tried hard to
struggle free.
Godou became aware the [Bull] could be used when he was being thrown.
Cult Leader Luo Hao had used uncommonly monstrous strength to fling
Godou into the sky, and made use of spectacular martial arts to skillfully
control the damage.
Realizing that was why Godou decided to resist.
Now he knew for certain, the cult leader's crystal-like hand that grabbed
him by the chest, possessed exceptionally frightening power.
Only the [Bull]'s strength had the power to resist her, and avoid being
thrown.
The battle of monstrous strength. Resists. Incredibly, Godou was able to
block her throwing technique.
But in the next instant, he was swept to the ground by her leg.
The landing impacted his back and the back of his head, but at least he
didn't fly an outrageous distance. The attack just now was probably pure
technique.
"On further thought, you are one of the god-slayers... Having a
corresponding ability is only to be expected."
"You're out of control! That monstrous strength must be your authority!"
Godou believed so.
The enormous strength inconsistent with the slender beautiful girl. But
whenever he tried to ponder her true identity, his head began to hurt.
Just like the time when obtained knowledge about Susanoo, it was the
process of spirit vision, but it would be impossible to fight with that kind of
intense headache, so Godou decided to stop thinking about it.
[11]"Correct, this is the authority [Divine Might of Vajrapani] that I usurped
[12] [13]from the Om pair of Benevolent Kings ... Martial arts can make the
powerless strong, but when mighty strength is paired with peerless martial
technique, the results are extraordinary. Now I shall show you what is
meant by the martial pinnacle."
"Martial arts master plus a monster's strength? Becoming very powerful is
normal! That's cheating!"
Ignoring Godou's protests, a large amount of magical power flowed out
from Cult Leader Luo Hao's body.
What powerful and densely concentrated magical power.
Could the output of monstrous strength be in direct proportion to the
magical power released? Godou was watching the current scene and
speculating as if he was reading a shounen manga.
"The way of the heavens is bright and clear, the way of the earth is
untroubled and tranquil, the way of mankind is empty and serene! --Ho!"
Roaring with an intensely imposing manner, Luo Hao took a step forward.
In the vast plaza the two were standing on, cracks started to appear on the
floor radiating from the spot where she stepped. The stone paved plaza
was virtually smashed.
Just from a single step!
Of course, the paving stones beneath Godou also shattered. This was a
situation like a dream or a joke.
"W-Wait a minute! I have a question for you! Have you met Salvatore
Doni!? Compared to that guy, who is more amazing? In the areas of
swordsmanship and martial arts."
"Salvatore...? Now that you mention it, there is a [King] with that name."
Hearing Godou's question, Luo Hao replied politely.
Even when faced with Verethragna's authority, she was not pressured to
go all out. This was obvious, anyone could see that Cult Leader Luo Hao
was a million times stronger than Kusanagi Godou.
"I encountered him a year ago. In terms of skill with the sword, his
technique approaches mine, but his other martial arts completely failed to
match me, I should describe him as totally immature."
To label as immature the heretical genius swordsman who was admired
and feared by the knights of Europe.
Ah, this kind of answer was expected, Godou sadly agreed.
In battle, a Campione can muster exceptional concentration, and thanks to
that, Godou's dynamic vision could even capture clearly the fastballs from
major league baseball.
He could even feel the moving presence of Salvatore Doni's sword.
However, Cult Leader Luo Hao's attacks gave off no presence at all. This
was probably the skill of a master, and not within the realm of Godou's
understanding, rather, it should be a very advanced mystic technique of
martial arts...!
What to do? Which incarnation should be used now?
If possible, Godou wanted to use the [Camel], but would he be able to
survive one direct hit from that monstrous strength?
How about the [Raptor] -- no, this one definitely cannot be used. If
Salvatore Doni had once defeated this incarnation, then there is no way it
could be effective against Cult Leader Luo Hao.
...No other way, Godou made his decision.
He should not seek victory through a confrontation against an opponent
skilled in direct combat or exchanging blows, because it would be quite
dangerous and pointless in terms of tactics. After becoming a Campione,
this was something he learned from experience.
Be prepared to fight and make as much of a ruckus as possible.
When using Verethragna's second form, the power of the [Bull], the target
of monstrous strength was very important. If well used, it was a power that
could turn a majestic church in Naples into ruins.
The power of the earth flowed into Godou's body through this feet.
This time, the target was -- Kusanagi Godou's body!
"Heyaaaaaaaah!!"
Godou roared meaninglessly as he took action, jumping with all his
strength.
Like doing track and field or physical tests, he used the principles of the
long jump to vault over Luo Hao's head, landing ten-odd metres away.
The [Bull]'s monstrous strength adjusts itself depending on the target.
Against a four-ton truck, one could lift it with two arms. On the other hand,
used against the seventy kilograms of Kusanagi Godou, the effect was
small but still noticeable.
From the perspective of the [Bull], the benefit was very small.
But for the purpose of escaping from Luo Hao right before her eyes, it was
sufficient.
"--Hmm!?"
The beautiful brows frowned as the cult leader turned to look back.
At this time, Godou took the next step. Run, just ignore everything and run.
His destination was the luxurious palace, but the walls of the palace
garden blocked his path.
Roughly five metres in height. His destination was just ahead -- Godou
held onto the wall with both hands.
Using the [Bull]'s monstrous strength on the entire wall, causing it to make
a shaking sound, and then pushing hard. The mighty power of the great
earth filled Godou's body.
"Oooooooooooh!"
Yelling from the depths of his throat.
At the same time, Godou collapsed the standing wall with his two arms.
"--Oh!? What powerful arm strength... King Kusanagi!"
Luo Hao's praise could be heard from behind.
It seemed like every time he displayed his strength, her approval of him
increased... Could Cult Leader Luo Hao have some sort of muscle fetish?
As he pondered this kind of stupid question, Godou continued to run.
He took a quick glance behind.
Smiling with satisfaction, the cult leader was following with leisurely
footsteps.
She clearly did not see Kusanagi Godou as a threat, but having noticed
her opponent possessed some ability, she casually pursued. Very good, if
that's the case, Godou still had enough strength in reserve to reach his
destination.
[14]Thanking Luo Hao with behavior like a Sumo Yokozuna , Godou finally
entered the interior of the palace.
The next step was to find a wide open space and wait quietly, then he was
set.
A few minutes later, Cult Leader Luo Hao had arrived. The shoes worn on
her dainty feet made no sound at all, and like a gentle breeze blowing
through the trees, the beauty was approaching.
Godou was speechless, she arrived much earlier than expected.
This palace should be quite large, but he didn't expect to be found by her
in such short time.
Did she use magic to determine Godou's location, or was it the senses of a
martial artist? Regardless, she was someone that could not be judged by
common sense.
"King Kusanagi, are you planning some kind of trap?"
Luo Hao was looking down from high above, while Godou looked out from
afar.
"The glimmer in your eyes already betray your intentions. I, Luo Hao, will
neither flee nor hide, be my guest and try out your secret plan!"
"I understand, then I'll be making my move now?"
"Of course, how could a martial arts master like me be defeated by a
young junior, that is absolutely impossible. This is simply martial arts
common sense, you are welcome."
Luo Hao casually issued her order, and Godou accepted with great
gratitude.
If she wanted to go easy on him, then he might as well go with the flow.
When an overwhelmingly strong opponent offers an advantage, there was
no need to stick to principles of fair competition.
Godou switched to another incarnation, the [Boar], and the ground beneath
his feet turned black.
This black color immediately turned into pitch black fur and hide.
Solidly built in appearance, giant and strongly majestic, the narcissistic
[Boar] had arrived!
"The one unblunted and unapproachable! Oath-breaking sinners be
purged by the iron hammer of justice"
With the roar of the spell words the divine beast was roused.
The ground he was stepping had become the [Boar]'s back, and Godou
clung onto the black fur with all his might. Now that preparations were
complete, go all out with the attack!
Ooooooooooh!
As the palace was filed with the roars of the [Boar], the divine beast broke
through the ground beneath the giant chamber, and its body slowly
emerged.
The incarnation that can only be used for destroying massive objects,
Godou picked the palace as the target. After all, it wasn't a building in
human society, smashing it to dust was not a problem.
"This time you'd better follow my orders properly!"
Ooooooooh!
A very daunting answer(?), did it actually understand?
"Summoning an avatar? It looks like your authority is not limited to mighty
strength."
Seeing the grand and solidly built massive body of the [Boar], Luo Hao
commented elegantly.
Apparently she did not feel threatened.
As befitting a Campione, her senses were not normal. Fine, whatever.
After all in such a situation, the point of summoning this fellow was to avoid
a direct showdown against her.
Ooooooooooooooh!!
The [Boar] and its roars began to get to work, crushing the floor, smashing
columns, and beginning to charge.
After tens of seconds, the black divine beast demolished the palace as it
charged outside.
Leaving Cult Leader Luo Hao within the collapsed building.
...Hopefully she didn't die. Observing the disaster zone, Godou thought to
himself. Though he was the one being targeted, he still felt some guilt.
After all, she was a Campione and definitely would find a way to survive.
Godou had total confidence in the immortality of deities and his fellow
peers.
(Actually, Godou was unaware that this was a mentality he had unwittingly
picked up through his various battles over the past few months.)
Having reached the outside, the [Boar] still did not stop taking action.
The destruction was not enough, so it began to charge at the destroyed
palace, demolishing walls, breaking beams and pillars, soon transforming
the ruins of the palace into a complete wasteland.
"Y-You idiot! At least make sure I don't fall off!"
Godou was yelling on the back of his unruly companion(?), and almost bit
his own tongue. Next time he should be more careful. Grabbing the black
fur with all his strength and lying on the body of the boar, he was working
hard not to fall off.
This was a life-gambling rodeo show, but at least it prevented a direct
battle against Cult Leader Luo Hao.
And he was still safe. A desperate plan of action because he deemed a
direct battle too disadvantageous. In that case, just flip the proverbial table
and destroy the battlefield completely.
--Speaking of the [Boar], this guy unexpectedly turned out to be
compulsively obsessive about cleanliness. The fur was soft and smooth as
if washed with hair conditioner, and there was no unpleasant odor usual of
wild beasts.
Having confirmed the habits of the black [Boar], Godou began to ponder.
For now he escaped the challenge of Cult Leader Luo Hao, but things
have not ended. He must hurry and meet up with Yuri and Hikari to get out
as soon as possible.
...Suddenly, the [Boar]'s movements stopped, was it time already?"
Godou took a deep breath, and surveyed the pitiful state of the ruins from
behind the divine beast's back.
Luo Hao was buried within the remains of the palace, but the overall shape
was still there. The [Boar] should have continued wreaking destruction, but
the fearsome divine beast was not moving.
It was screaming at the rubble before its eyes, its ferocious teeth and snout
aiming in that direction. As if preparing for a charge, its rear heels were
kicking against the ground audibly.
There was basically only one possible existence that could prevent this guy
from beginning its task.
That's right, things couldn't have ended so easily.
If it was Salvatore Doni, then he could withstand that level of collapse
using his steel body, and then cut open the mountain of debris with his
crazy magic sword and escape. Voban would probably survive by
transforming into that giant wolf.
Thus Cult Leader Luo Hao's escape from her predicament was only
expected -- !
Though Godou was certain Luo Hao had broken free, he was still
completely shocked by the following developments, for he never expected
her to employ such a method.
"Hah -- !"
Luo Hao's beautiful voice was heard.
The building materials of the palace ruins were being blown into the sky
piece by piece.
The one performing this task, was a rapidly spinning beauty. Maintaining a
stance with both arms outstretched, the cult leader was spinning like a top!
Not only that, this human top was sending the debris flying as it hovered in
the air!
Impossible! Godou stared in shock and was rendered speechless.
An authority of monstrous strength, the flying magic witnessed in the sky
just now, and a physical technique that allowed high speed spinning like a
top.
How did all this combine into such a strong body, that doesn't even lose to
the hardness of timber and stone, this kind of technique should not exist!
Completely different from the escape scenarios Godou considered, the
sight before him totally exceeded common sense.
Cult Leader Luo Hao was floating in the air as if hung by a stunt wire?
Unbelievable.
"King Kusanagi, I really have to praise you well! There are few in the world
who can soil with dust the clothes of I, Luo Hao. You have achieved it --
hohoho, just like that Salvatore whatever, and the stubborn one from
England. For there to be three devil kings able to accomplish this
monumental feat within the past decade... As a senior along the path of
domination, I am most pleased!"
Stopping her spinning and hovering, the cult leader praised Godou as she
landed upon the ruins.
That's right, her white Han clothing was soiled with dust, but her slender
body was virtually unharmed, and not even her hair was messed up.
And using some kind of magic, her clothes instantly transformed. It was a
[15]
robe reminiscent of the ladylike attire of enlightened female immortals ,
[16]a luxurious outfit similar to a mandarin gown. Though the opening at the
chest offered a view of her jade-like skin, thoughts of desire did not enter
Godou's mind.
She was preparing to make her move, so she changed into more mobile
clothes!
"...I was originally planning on give you a three-move advantage."
Smiling was the one named Cuilian with style name Hao.
Innocently adorable, a very wonderful smile of a maiden. But as the
thought of the extremely twisted personality of this stubborn person
emerged turbulently in Godou's mind, staring at that facial expression like
a blooming flower made him feel like vomiting.
-- To be honest, he was certain even without proof.
That innocent and adorable look was evidence that the cult leader was
getting serious. No mistake about it!
A Campione's sixth sense could feel danger, Godou was absolutely sure of
that.
"But I am not going to go easy any more, if I let you have two more moves,
I might very well end up in defeat. So as your senior, I can only grant you
the free move just now... Starting now, Luo Hao will go all out and show
you the perils of martial arts."
These words said in such an adorable, cautious and ladylike manner.
Compared to the condescending tones before, the current Luo Hao was
even more terrifying.
"You have already witnessed my authority [Divine Might of Vajrapani]. Now
I shall demonstrate the [Dragon's Roar and Tiger's Howl]. Thanks to these
two grand techniques, I have become the Ruler of the Martial Realm."
Cult Leader Luo Hao took a deep breath, and expelled it together with her
beautiful voice.
"Last year we fought where the Sang-kan flows / This year it was Onion
River Road. We've washed our swords in the Eastern Sea / Grazed our
horses on Tian Shan's snowy side. A thousand miles are not enough for
[17]
this war / Our armies grow old in their armor."It was a beautiful singing voice. However, everything in the cult leader's
surroundings were blown away entirely.
Debris, remains of the building, as well as intact palace walls and slabs of
stone were blown away by the strong wind. Her song had turned into
magical wind that obliterated everything in its path.
"Husbandmen of slaughter, the Huns / Have sown the yellow desert with
our bones. Long ago the Qin built the Great Wall / Now it's the Han who
light the signal beacon. All night long the flames flicker / Year in year out,
the war lingers."
Singing with great passion, the magical wind grew ever stronger, blowing
things further and further away.
There was nothing left in Cult Leader Luo Hao's vicinity, save for the
gigantic [Boar].
No! She can't be allowed to sing any longer!
In the instant that realization struck Godou, the [Boar] charged at the cult
leader.
"Bright swords flash, brave men fall and die / Riderless horses whinny at
the sky. Kites and crows pluck out the guts / Hang them high on the
withered trees."
The heavy pressure of the magical wind changed.
The smooth ballad was like a lullaby to the [Boar]'s ears, and pressured by
the wind fluctuation, the black divine beast halted in its steps. Luo Hao had
suppressed the charge.
To think that someone other than Perseus who possessed Mithra's light
could subdue the [Boar] that never yielded to any other deity!
"Soldiers' blood on the dry grass stained / While generals map the next
campaign. Wise men know a war having won / Is no better than losing
one."
The heavy wind pressure became a shockwave.
The [Boar]'s solidly built and giant body floated upwards for an instant, and
then the follow up shockwave sent the off-balance divine beast flying off its
feet.
"Waaaaaaaah!"
Godou lost his balance on the beast's back, and fell towards the ground.
Though he had hit the ground a number of times just now, this time it was
not one of Luo Hao's merciful throws. Fearing for his life if he hit the
ground directly like that, Godou struggled to grab the black fur, and just
barely made it.
The moment of crisis was averted for now, but the divine beast was lying
fallen on the ground, so falling off was just a matter of time.
Using the [Boar]'s fur, Godou jumped and descended back onto the
ground.
Back on that nostalgic ground surface, Godou noticed. Luo Hao had
stopped singing!?
During this opening, the [Boar] started to get up.
Ooooooooooh!
Entering a battle state, the divine beast roared, but the serious Cult Leader
Luo Hao was just beginning to show her true skills.
"Glowing sun, brilliance of scorching lightning! Spirit of the heavens, spirit
[18]of the earth, Grand Supreme Elderly Lord , make haste as
commanded!"
She leisurely approached the giant pitch black body as she chanted the
spell words.
It wasn't magic but the use of her authority. As a Campione, Godou could
tell, but which one was she going to use? The monstrous strength, or the
song of the shockwave?
...Most likely the former, but Godou could not have expected the manner it
would proceed in.
As magical power in Luo Hao's body continued to rise, it gave off a
wavering image like a desert mirage.
The [Boar] on the side, was struck by this illusionary body.
Ooooooooooh!
Unbelievably, she made the [Boar] cry, like a hurt little puppy running
around in pain.
And then once again, the boar was hit. Was that succinct motion what they
called a middle punch in karate?
The [Boar] roared once again. There was an effect, it received damage!
Watching the illusion before his eyes, Godou was rendered speechless.
This wavering illusion like a desert mirage, gradually took on a clear form --
Transforming into a half-naked muscular giant.
A very cleanly shaven head, solemn expression, giant bulging muscular
body, the lower half was clad in rough clothes, while the entire body shone
with golden light!
Godou had seen this appearance in photographs.
[19]The Buddha Guardians at the southern gates of Toudai-ji ! Come to
think of it, Luo Hao did mention it.
Her monstrous strength authority was usurped from an Om pair of
Benevolent Kings. Benevolent Kings are basically Buddha Guardians!
"The swimming dragon rushes to the heavens, attack from close quarters,
close in rapidly from the eight directions, spinning double kick!"
As if teaching unarmed martial arts, Luo Hao was rapidly reciting mantras.
In coordination, the Buddha Guardian that appeared before her also
moved rapidly in response.
An upper cut, at the same time stepping and kneeing, followed by a series
of short punches, knee strike, middle punch, and then a spinning aerial
kick, a two-hit combo without touching the ground!
As swift and fluent as a fight scene from a kungfu movie. The one being hit
was of course the [Boar].
Oooooooooh! Oooooooooh! Oooooooooh!
The divine beast's roars were akin to weeping cries.
"That guy always sounded so dauntless when rampaging and showing off,
but I never knew it sucked so much at taking hits..."
Godou watched in shock, as the Buddha Guardian raised the giant body of
the [Boar] up high.
On one hand. What terrifying strength.
Directly sending it into the sky, it was Luo Hao's throwing skill that Godou
already tasted many times.
So this Buddha Guardian could actually use the Luo Hao's martial arts...!?
Godou's fears were confirmed, as the [Boar] fell with a resounding crash
and ground tremor, the giant body of the black divine beast disappeared
like a puff of smoke.
"-- Now that your avatar has vanished, King Kusanagi, your person follows
next."
Luo Hao's intelligent pupils locked on to Godou.
Finally realizing the state of emergency, Godou couldn't help but swallow
hard...
"G-Godou-san! Are you fine!?"
The adorable Hime-Miko was yelling with all her strength.
From Godou's side, Mariya suddenly appeared, carrying Hikari whose
eyes looked empty. This was likely the mobility method called transfer.
"Mariya! What happened to Hikari? Is she OK!?"
"A-After using the ritual of the treasured sword, the monkey divine
monarch used divine power on her... Though she is still conscious, she is
in a dazzled state and unable to converse, I... I believed it was dangerous
to continue staying in the stable, so I used spirit vision to find Godou-san's
location and transferred here...!"
This report shocked Godou, for he had completely forgotten about the
monkey divine monarch. Furthermore, their most pressing concern now
was the demonic cult leader whose slender and elegant brows were now
frowning at the sudden intruders.
"...To enter the battlefield between two devil kings, what impudent miko."
Coordinating with her complaint, the giant Buddha Guardian raised his fist.
Faced with challenge after challenge, Godou stepped in front to protect
Yuri, whose face had turned pale, behind his back, and yelled:
"Wait a minute! Are you planning to attack Mariya and me together!?"
"If the frail little girl intruded into our duel, she must be prepared to sacrifice
herself and die together with her lord. Then I, Luo Hao, must respect her
act of loyalty. King Kusanagi, if you don't wish for the girl to die in battle,
defeat my special move!"
This woman was entirely incomprehensible! Watching the fist in the sky,
Godou clutched his head in his arms.
In actual fact, that would be the same punching impact as Luo Hao. If
Godou cannot evade it, his outcome would be the same as the battle just
now. What could he do? Sit there and die?
"Also, I must make myself clear to the miko. Even if you wish to transfer
your lord, it will be useless because it requires prior preparation along with
a clear and serene spirit. There is no time for you to transfer now and you
will be killed before you can escape."
Due to Yuri's appearance, Luo Hao reminded solemnly.
Godou could clearly feel the breathing of the Hime-Miko behind him pause
because her thoughts were read.
I see, if there was more time to prepare then transfer could be used to
escape. Seeing the moving golden fist, Godou clenched his teeth in
reluctance. Was it too late? --No!
At this rate, he was going to die and the Mariya sisters behind his back will
also die; they will definitely die.
In the instant that the fist descended like lightning, thoughts rushed
through Godou's mind like spinning revolving door.
He had to put up some final resistance. He cannot die here for such a silly
reason and he definitely could not let Yuri and Hikari die along with him.
How could he permit such things to occur!
The fist must be blocked somehow. Should he use the [Raptor] after all?
But Salvatore Doni was able to defeat it in the past. Will it be any use
against Luo Hao? His right arm felt scorching hot, as if burning up. Where
could he escape? How should he defend? Fight? When did his arm begin
to get hot? No, let's put these questions aside, and consider how to escape
certain death before them. Flee as much as possible with the [Raptor] --
Time's up. Mariya Yuri at this time still continued to hold the mesmerized
Hikari in her arms, and the Buddha Guardian's fist was coming down fast.
It was the instant Godou attempted his last struggle.
His right arm hurt greatly, and for some reason, the thoughts of the lustre
of steel and the flash of the sword entered his mind.
In the next instant, Godou and the Mariya sisters' bodies vanished like the
clouds of dawn.
"They escaped? That was undoubtedly the technique of transfer just now...
But they are no longer within the city."
Luo Cuilian puzzled over the unexpected result.
[20]Before the punch of the open-mouthed Benevolent King she summoned
could connect, King Kusanagi and the miko had vanished.
That was the technique of transfer used for journeying within the
Youmingjie (the Japanese called it the Netherworld), but there were two
problems. First of all, this city was within a barrier, and furthermore, that
technique could not be used without time to concentrate.
Using investigative Daoist arts, Luo Hao confirmed they were not within the
city and could not be located. King Kusanagi had somehow broken the
barrier and transferred to the outside.
Or perhaps he possessed a treasure that could be used during such a
time?
"That youth has great potential... To finish him off immediately would be
too hasty. Let me give him some respite for now."
'Hoho, you love to cause a ruckus too.'
What suddenly sounded was the voice of her old enemy the monkey king.
With just a voice, it meant that he still had not fully awakened.
'I too, would like to hurry back to the real world for a duel -- but let's wait a
while. Breaking past the spell of the [Keeper of the Horses] needs a bit of
time.'
With things settled on this side, Luo Cuilian began to consider the situation
on earth.
And she was very concerned about the conditions of the real world, for
she'd better watch her disciples lest they slack off.
"I know, I shall return to the real world first, and await the time for us to
duel again."
'Ah, I will surely satisfy your anticipation. Just wait for me to get there with
your eyes peeled. God-slayer!'
Giggling with laughter, the monkey king's voice was filled with pomposity.
The Ruler of the Martial Realm had demonstrated her might. Restoring the
heretical monkey through the sacred snake's sacrifice, no one could have
predicted what kind of pandemonium this unfolding scene would unleash.