Campione! Vol 13 Chapter 5

Chapter 5 - Black Blade, Hitherto Unawakened Part 1 Directed by the G.o.ddess, lightning descended from the thunderclouds. G.o.dou, Yuri and Ena had jumped into the stream together. They did not mind immersing themselves up to their knees. After all, they were going to get completely wet later. "Take this, Yuri. For tying everyone together!" Ena tossed a ball of red thread to her fellow Hime-Miko. It looked like the type of thread used for sewing. Yuri apparently knew how to use it already. Simply replying "Very well!", she caught the ball of thread. Next, Ena took out a small wooden toy. Simply stated, it was a mini-sized "raft." Ten-odd wooden rods had been cut down to the same dimensions and bound together with string. Placing this "raft" on her forehead, Ena chanted spell words. "The one who effects wondrous change shall enact a miracle." Then with a cry of "Ei!" she tossed the "raft" into the stream. The palm-sized "raft" expanded in size as it fell into the water, transforming unbelievably into a real raft. G.o.dou realized at this time. This was the j.a.panese version of the magic Erica used to transform her beloved sword. "Because Ena already performed a secret 'rite' on this thing, it should be quite reliable. It is much st.u.r.dier than normal rafts built from wood!" The make-s.h.i.+ft raft created using wizardry was a square roughly three meters long. Explaining, its maker was the first person to sit down on it. G.o.dou and Yuri immediately followed. The make-s.h.i.+ft raft started to move along with the stream. Whitewater rafting by inexperienced amateurs. A terrifying challenge was about to begin. — Woooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaah! G.o.dou and the girls screamed as they clung onto the raft. The one-eyed giant — the cyclops. After being blown away by the [Boar], this monster had stumbled and crawled his way to the stream, reaching out with his ma.s.sive arm. Nevertheless, the giant on his last breath exhausted all his strength at this time and collapsed into dust. But just as the trio breathed a sigh of relief, the G.o.ddess' voice was heard from the sky. 'Are you going to flee as well, Kusanagi-sama!? Indeed, speaking of the various G.o.d-slayers of the current generation, they are all great indomitable heroes who flee with such alacrity as though they had wings!' Her words were filled with sarcastic laughter. Furthermore... 'Nevertheless, I will never give up on you, Kusanagi-sama! Fufu, I shall prepare a new a.s.sa.s.sin to replace the slain minions. Flee as much as you like. So long as I live, the day of your sucessful escape from this island shall never arrive!' She was issuing a warning. However, the G.o.ddess did not seem like she intended to pursue personally. Was she taking precautions because she was cut by Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi? In any case, getting far away from the G.o.ddess as quickly as possible was a good thing. By the time G.o.dou turned his attention back to his surroundings, the sound of thunder was already quite distant. Thanks to riding the flow of the stream, they had now left behind the Fire G.o.ddess hidden in the thunderclouds. However, the make-s.h.i.+ft raft was not comfortable at all. Due to following raging rapids, the feeling was naturally akin to a rodeo. The raft kept jumping up at times while sinking into the water on other occasions. The up and down feeling was quite frightening. "By the way, you mentioned some kind of 'rite' just now. What is that?" G.o.dou yelled while being shaken violently. Although it was a model handcrafted by Ena, this raft give off a feeling as if it were made of antique timber. Why? "Uh, it's that thing. Amakasu mentioned it before. Using popular terminology, I guess you could call it a s.h.i.+kigami spirit. Because this [Rite] was pa.s.sed down in the Seishuuin family and used over the generations, it's quite effective!" "Ah yeah, that thing you see in television and movies!" Called onmyoudou or onmyouji.'-^ G.o.dou recalled the relevant knowledge. It seemed to be something quite unexpectedly valuable. But sitting here without seat belts, one could easily fall off at any time. The trio hung on desperately with both hands as they sat on the wooden raft. As they stayed in this state, a short while pa.s.sed — "O Kukuri no Himegami, I beseech you to watch over these skills of thread spinning and tying!" Yuri chanted spell words presently. She seemed to be concentrating her thoughts into the ball of thread she was clutching tightly in her hand. "Everyone, please lie down!" G.o.dou and Ena did as she instructed. Yuri also laid herself face down on the raft. Then the thread she was clutching began to move on its own. Like spider's silk, it flew out of the Hime-Miko's hand! The thread wrapped itself around the raft, layer after layer. G.o.dou, Yuri and Ena looked as though they were tied up face down as they lay on the raft. In any case, using the raft as a base, the three of them were bound together by thread. The thread wrapped around them repeatedly for ten-odd layers, binding G.o.dou and the girls securely. G.o.dou sensed magical power from the thread. This was probably no mere sewing equipment but a real wizardry apparatus. "This thread is strong enough to withstand cuts from bladed weapons. Except for special circ.u.mstances, it will not break at all!" In other words, this thread was as strong as metal wires. Nevertheless, this did not change the fact that they were engaged in a life-threatening event. The raft continued to rise up and down on the water surface due to the impact of the rapid currents. Water splashed into their faces repeatedly and the raft dipped many times underwater. Even when it floated back to the surface, they did not get that feeling of salvation from death. The possibility of drowning crossed everyone's mind. With such momentum and speed, the raft kept colliding into certain objects as the water currents pushed forward — Ena had said "much st.u.r.dier than normal," but how st.u.r.dy was it exactly? There would be collisions with rocks as well as driftwood, right? Dangerous elements were innumerable if one tried to count them all. This was the current situation. During this time of danger, the two Hime-Miko by G.o.dou's side performed spells to their best ability. "O Great G.o.d of Arms! Hasten forth to welcome our arrival at this land of the rising sun!" "O Sai no Kami, please grant us your mercy and bless us along the road ahead!" Ena prayed to the guardian deity of warriors while Yuri pleaded to the guardian deity of travelers for protection. The Hime-Miko had been praying nonstop all this time. This was probably what Ena had meant when she said to "keep casting all the protective, disaster warding and anti-drowning spells you can think of." Since things have come to this, all Kusanagi G.o.dou could do was believe in them. That said, faced with dangers he was powerless against, G.o.dou could feel nothing but fright. Compared to a battle against G.o.ds, he lamented with even greater feeling — "l-l almost thought I was a goner..." "S-Same here. To be honest, I was thinking I would never live to step foot on j.a.panese soil again..." "Oh my... How intense... In all sorts of ways..." G.o.dou, Yuri and Ena finally relaxed and muttered. Counting from the time they started the deadly voyage, an hour had already pa.s.sed. The raft the trio was riding managed to survive. Along the way, the current brought them into collisions with hard rocks many times. Every single time, there was nothing they could do but pray to the heavens. There were also several times when the raft endured impacts with hard objects with a loud "crash." In the end, they capsized roughly three times (although miraculously, the raft righted itself every time). In spite of all that, this raft that barely counted as a boat still endured, transporting the trio to this place. Fortunately, there were no waterfalls along the way. The water current pus.h.i.+ng the raft was quite gentle now. This was because they had left the mountains and finally reached flat lowlands. Seeing that it was safe, Yuri had released the thread of wizardry a short while ago. Although they were completely drenched, the trio could at least relax and rest on the raft after what seemed like eternity. "By the way, your anti-drowning spells were really effective, Mariya and Seishuuin." G.o.dou thanked them sincerely from the bottom of his heart. Although their prayers did not show visible effects, he could not attribute the safe outcome of their reckless rafting to any other reason. "Yes. It seems like there were more benefits than expected." "To think you would say 'it seems like'... Didn't you guarantee it was going to succeed with full confidence?" G.o.dou smiled wryly in response to Ena's exclamation. However, he noticed Yuri making an expression as if she wanted to say something. "Oh dear, those spells do not have 'visible effects on use' after all. They feel more like invisible protection." "Y-Yes. Which is why we were able to arrive here safe and sound. What a relief." "It probably wouldn't have worked if Ena was alone. But since Yuri is such a good girl, Ena believed she would surely find a way to overcome all difficulties." "Ena-san, please do not rely excessively on these spells in those kinds of situations..." I see. So that method of escape was actually beyond Ena's expectations, huh? G.o.dou was utterly shocked. This brave attempt at rafting was perhaps an exceptionally risky gamble. That said, the fact of the matter was they were saved as a result. After all, being carried by the water current like this eliminated the need to walk, thus reducing Yuri's burden greatly. "So long as we ended up alright, I guess I shouldn't fuss over it..." G.o.dou sighed as he spoke. Oh well, they were safe anyway. While the leader exhibited his natural easygoing personality, the voyage continued without incident. The one rowing was Ena who had somehow brought out an oar and was casually charting their course. Despite lacking prior rafting experience, she seemed quite used to using this type of oar. From the raft they could observe tropical rainforest scenery on the riverbank, quite different compared to the mountainous view in the mountains. The temperature was also much higher, prompting G.o.dou and the girls to take off their jackets. A tropical zone. The land of constant summer heat again. The clothes drenched from raftting should air dry rather quickly. Soon after, the salty smell of the sea drifted across the river surface, announcing the ocean's approach. The trio looked at one another, recalling a particular warning. So long as the G.o.ddess is alive, Kusanagi G.o.dou was absolutely unable to escape the island. So, what exactly was going to happen — ? Before boarding the raft, the trio had abandoned their burdensome rucksacks. Currently, they were only carrying minimal possessions such as water bottles. Also, everyone should be quite tired from the rowdy farce that lasted until now. G.o.dou particularly wanted Yuri to have a rest. Calculating thus, G.o.dou decided to make a rest stop nearby and regroup. As the sun set, the second night arrived on the island in the demonic realm. The trio of G.o.dou, Yuri and Ena was currently on a beach by the seash.o.r.e. Everyone was gazing towards the ocean beneath the night sky. Soon after, a boat sped across the sea to enter the cove that served as the entrance to the island. The engine-powered boat advanced nimbly, arriving at the beach where G.o.dou's group was waiting. "Thank you for waiting patiently." "The important thing is that everyone is safe and sound!" The new arrivals at the beach were Erica Blandelli and Liliana Kranjcar. After reaching the beach, Yuri's psychic sensing could be used freely. They had contacted the knights and decided to meet up tonight here. Instead of flight magic, the knights traveled by boat in order to bring provisions such as food and water. But after a brief delightful reunion, they sat in a circle to hold a serious conference. Due to illumination by the moon and the stars, there was no need to use flashlights. "Reaching the seash.o.r.e is a good thing, but I'm positive making an exit won't be so easy for me." G.o.dou spoke with resignation. "However, it's different for everyone else — " "Are you asking the four of us to depart from the island, leaving behind Kusanagi G.o.dou alone?" "How utterly inane. On the contrary, this is the only point that is a little fresh. But you couldn't really be considering that, G.o.dou?" Liliana and Erica glared with reprimanding gazes. Well, I expected this sort of reaction. G.o.dou shrugged and stopped what he was going to say. Hence, Yuri spoke up instead. "The labyrinthine magical effects that fills this island... I believe it is indeed Prince Alec's authority. After hearing His Highness' name mentioned by the G.o.ddess, I saw the same G.o.d's sacred name that I once saw at the floating island." "Cretan civilization's divine king, Minos huh? A deity of the earth with connections to Poseidon." Liliana nodded. "Yes. The authority Prince Alec used before... I believe the G.o.ddess is likely sustaining it through some sort of magic." "How terrible. So what extent of divine magic does this G.o.ddess possess?" As Ena grumbled about the enemy's myriad magical powers, Erica interjected: "A witch enslaving heroes as well as a sun deity... Although I can think of several names, jumping to conclusions at this juncture seems too dangerous. The issue of the 'Pan-Eurasian hero' also needs to be resolved." "A witch related to a hero from some country huh? No idea." "Let's either wait for more decisive clues or when Yuri receives a spirit vision. Right now, we're a little short on both." Erica and Ena nodded to each other. On the side, Liliana lamented with chagrin: "Furthermore, to think Verethragna's incarnations would be stolen... Kusanagi G.o.dou, please be careful. The reduction of available combat potential is a huge problem — " "Hmm?" "Now that you have lost the [Ram], this means that you cannot revive as usual when suffering from fatal injuries." "True, but being excessively cautious isn't good either." Although he nodded to acknowledge the blue knight's advice, G.o.dou replied: "If one falters in the face of a G.o.d, the already miniscule chance of victory shrinks further into nothingness. Oh well, I just have to go all out with what I have. Furthermore — " Suddenly remembering, G.o.dou looked at his right arm. His "partner" was still available and ready. "I still have Ama no Murak.u.mo. Although as a weapon, it's not that easy to use." This was not complaining or grumbling but simply what G.o.dou thought. He did not think he could use Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi effectively as a weapon. Perhaps this was just as well, since swords were such dangerous existences. Oh well, if the divine sword wanted to go on a rampage, it was probably going to be disappointed. "Your Majesty, Ena will work hard too. Because Ama no Murak.u.mo is Ena and Your Majesty's partner." Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi's real user stated. Perhaps Ena had already secretly heard the grumblings of this "partner." Imagining this to himself, G.o.dou went "I'm sorry" to apologize. The situation was a bit — no, it was quite pessimistic. But in spite of all that, so long as there is a will, there should be a way... G.o.dou resolved himself in this manner. Part 2 After the reunion and the conference ended, the team set up their tents to camp for the night. The tents were part of the equipment Erica and Liliana transported with the boat. Just like last night, they were going to rotate in s.h.i.+fts and have one person keeping watch while the others slept. As before, morning arrived without incident. G.o.dou finished breakfast and was feeling tense in antic.i.p.ation of the upcoming battle against the G.o.ddess today — But the current situation was not especially tense. In fact, one could say it was the opposite. A tropical zone's dazzling sunlight. The weather today was exceptionally sunny. A white beach. Completely free from pollution, this demonic realm's beach was truly pure and pristine. Beautiful beyond compare. There was the ocean as well. Facing this South Seas region of constant summer was a clear, bottomless, emerald-green ocean. Gathered here were girls in swimsuits, displaying their figures with freedom and delight... "No. Going swimming in this kind of situation, what on earth are they thinking?" G.o.dou reproached calmly. The sight before him consisted of attractive maidenly figures that made him embarra.s.sed to stare directly. But in this case, the situation was already developed. With common sense, full presence of mind and the spirit of critical appraisal, G.o.dou turned his indifferent gaze towards the girls' gorgeous appearances. First was Erica. G.o.dou originally expected her to wear a red swimsuit as usual, but that was not the case. Instead, it was a white bikini. Nevertheless, the two colors representing the a.s.sociation she belonged to — red and black — were used to line the edges of her swimsuit as decoration. This style of swimsuit, self-a.s.sertively emphasizing her proportions to an excessive degree, was on the other hand — Quite usual of her. Then there was Liliana, who adhered to her usual color by wearing a blue bikini with a black pareo wrapped around her waist. Untying the pareo, her astoundingly slim figure and slender limbs exhibited charm akin to that of a professional beach volleyball player. Yuri was also dressed in a bikini-style outfit. Her swimsuit's elegance and pink material were quite suited to her. According to G.o.dou's memory, Yuri only wore one-piece swimsuits in the past. She was actually not very comfortable dressed like this, right? Looking quite embarra.s.sed, Yuri attempted to hide behind the other girls. But it was impossible to hide. Despite Yuri's slender physique, her bust and posterior regions were rich with a curvaceous sense of fullness, clearly visible due to wearing a bikini. Finally there was Ena. Just as expected, she was wearing a bikini. However, its two-piece design had an especially adult flavor. Although Ena's personality was cheerful and innocent, her figure rivaled Erica in splendor. Furthermore, her waist-length black hair was full of l.u.s.ter. Standing on the beach dressed in a black bikini like this, she gave off an incredible sense of maturity as well as the charm of a mysterious young beauty. Equally beautiful. This was a blooming display of attractive young women. "We're about to fight a deity. Why are you girls dressed like that?" "G.o.dou, your way of thinking is too shallow." The one who rebuffed his common sense commentary was naturally Erica. "Indeed, the battle is imminent. However, we still don't know when it'll begin, right?" G.o.dou frowned at what she pointed out. She was right. The G.o.ddess' abilities were powerful and varied. In any case, surely she already knew her quarry was at the beach since yesterday. But yet she had not made any appearance. Was she planning on preventing them from going out to sea, to instill a sense of despair? Or perhaps, banking on her advantage of being able to strike at any time, she intended to let the hunted prey, G.o.dou, fall into anxiety and unease? "It is not a good thing to wait nervously for an enemy whose arrival time is uncertain. You'll just get all worked up for nothing. Rather, wouldn't it be better to relax without compromising alertness excessively? Also, this is preparation." "I don't understand that logic... But anyway, why a swim in the ocean?" "Because we were going to be walking around the island, sufficient swimwear was prepared beforehand for everyone. Since we brought them here already, it'd be a waste not to use them. Also, isn't this simply more fun?" So this was the argument Erica used to convince the girls. Turning his gaze, G.o.dou found Yuri going "Seriously, Erica-san, this again..." with a troubled expression, but the honors student did not seem like she was going to voice her objections. Liliana also went "well, this is also battle experience" and simply stood back with a sour look. One could ridicule the fact of her preparedness in casually bringing a lifebuoy. Speaking of Ena, she was smiling with her usual att.i.tude. "Yes yes. Even if we waited with discipline akin to staying awake all night in a besieged situation, nothing good would come out of it." Oh well, perhaps they really were right. G.o.dou nodded and Erica smiled tenderly as she tossed male swimwear over to him. After changing behind a rock, G.o.dou found the four girls frolicking in the seawater, their playful laughter greatly adding to the beach atmosphere. To avoid exhaustion, he probably should not swim too strenuously. "Your Majesty, please come over here for a while!" Just as G.o.dou was about to enter the water for a light swim, Ena called him. "Oh my, since Your Majesty is in a position of waiting for the enemy to arrive at this encampment, Ena thinks Your Majesty should make a display of solemn dignity. Yeah, something that feels suited to a king's position." "Say, Seishuuin, I don't think sea bathing has anything to do with position." "Okay okay. Come, let's sit here for a bit." Invited to a patch of cool sand next to the sea, G.o.dou did as he was told. As G.o.dou puzzled over Ena's intentions, the Hime-Miko of the sword swiftly took a seat by his left. Then she pressed her body close to him, leaning with all her weight! The tender supple sensation caused G.o.dou to shudder in surprise. But unlike Erica, this did not convey the kind of alarming feeling as if the posture would progress into something even more intimate. Perhaps this was actually what made Ena so perfect? "W-What are you doing!?" "Ena saw this in a foreign teledrama once. Like a mafia boss guy sitting by the poolside with two ladies waiting on him, drinking c.o.c.ktails. Your Majesty should do that too. Yuri, come over for a while!" Ena called to her childhood friend who was a short distance away. Over there, Liliana was floating casually in the water, sitting on a lifebuoy that served as a piece of the boat's lifesaving equipment. Yuri was also wearing a lifebuoy and the two girls seemed to be playing together happily. Called by Ena, Yuri turned her head to look and hence discovered the situation. "W-What are you two doing over there!?" "Fufu, you should hurry over here, Yuri. The two of us will play the roles of His Majesty's lovers together." "You two, please do not engage in this type of behavior during the daytime, especially outdoors." "Guh... What a situation of utter depravity! Even Kusanagi G.o.dou could not possibly do that!" "It's not like that, Mariya and Liliana! Seishuuin decided this all on her own — " "l-ln that case, G.o.dou-san, you should hurry and separate from her." "O-Oh yeah." Conditioned by past scenes of being held captive in Erica's forceful grip, G.o.dou had forgotten that Ena did not possess the same kind of monstrous strength. G.o.dou immediately stood up, forcibly struggling free from the Hime-Miko's body. However, someone else immediately pounced on him from somewhere. G.o.dou could feel an elastic and supple sensation on his back together with a sense of volume. More conspicuous than anything else was the immense strength of the arms embracing G.o.dou from behind, wrapping tightly around his neck — "G.o.dou. Do you intend to engage Ena-san in loving intimacy, neglecting me on the side?" The voice whispering in his ear was, of course, the usual familiar one. "Ah, what happened? Erica-san arrived faster than Yuri. But no matter. We two will play the role of His Majesty's lovers, how's that?" "Role playing is redundant. Because I am truly Kusanagi G.o.dou's lover. However." Erica declared proudly to Ena who listened nonchalantly. But a fearless lioness' smile immediately surfaced on Erica's face while she and the Hime-Miko of the Sword nodded at each other. "Perhaps this is not such a bad idea. For a stubborn someone who obstinately clings to his opinions, this is a good opportunity to let him realize the unparalleled extent to which his behavior is the ant.i.thesis of being human." "E-Erica-san. Since we are simply relaxing in preparation for battle, is this not contrary to what you were saying just now!?" "She is right, Erica. Besides, these matters should be the job of the grand chamberlain, in other words, me. K-Kusanagi G.o.dou, you should not make a l.u.s.tful face just because you are sandwiched between those two!" "Of course I'm not! Could you please direct your sight to my attempts to resist!?" Dazzling suns.h.i.+ne. A white beach. And also the sea. In any case, G.o.dou's entourage was enjoying these conditions while "waiting" on standby without being excessively off guard. Then roughly two hours pa.s.sed — The first person to look up was Yuri. Both yesterday and today, she had deployed her psychic sensing to cover the vicinity of the beach so as to discover any emergency immediately. Liliana also narrowed her eyes, casting her gaze towards the air. Ever since last night, she had been using a spell that gave warning as soon as powerful magic was sensed. This was to avoid repeating the same mistakes as during the divine eagle's attack and to prepare against the G.o.ddess who could arrive at any time. Noticing Yuri and Liliana's reactions, Erica smiled courageously and Ena nodded forcefully. Back on the beach, the girls were currently dressed in their swimsuits with a light parka and t-s.h.i.+rt to avoid getting cold. G.o.dou had also put on a s.h.i.+rt. While having fun, all of them had remained alert. Then it finally came. 'Kusanagi-sama, I cannot believe you are frolicking with these lowly girls!' As the G.o.ddess' voice thundered, the originally sunny sky suddenly darkened. Dark clouds filled the sky with frightening speed. A gigantic silhouette of a woman floated up onto this dark canopy of the sky. Slender as a juniper, this was the shadow of the mysterious G.o.ddess. Her head almost reached the clouds. Such was the size of the gigantic silhouette. 'Fufu, only the tasteless would choose the company of such lowly girls. A hero like you should love a suitable partner!' "On the other hand, I'm pretty sure you're not the suitable one..." Feeling that a reb.u.t.tal would be futile, G.o.dou simply muttered softly. However, he renewed his spirits and looked up, yelling with a loud voice: "Are you still refusing to come down here today!?" The G.o.ddess' figure looked as big as a rainbow hanging in the sky, but she was definitely far away. She was watching G.o.dou and his group from up high in the distant sky. When having a close encounter with a deity, a Campione's power would be roused intensely. Due to the current lack of that effect, G.o.dou instantly understood. Was the G.o.ddess highly wary because she was cut by Ena once? 'Hmm. Kusanagi-sama, you have apparently summoned all your subordinates. This time, I as the queen shall send troops to challenge you, the king.' "It's not just this time. Haven't you been sending your subordinates every time?" The enemy called herself the Fire G.o.ddess. G.o.dou felt that she must be hiding something else apart from her name. Although he wanted to keep questioning her, to probe the matter more thoroughly — 'Fufu. A weak woman and a heroic warrior differ completely in their ways of doing things. Kusanagi-sama, considering the courage it takes for a mere woman to challenge a manly G.o.d-slayer, please show generous leniency.' Things were not going well, The Fire G.o.ddess was messing up all his plans. G.o.dou had no idea whether it was on purpose or unintentional. However, he was beginning to harbor certain suspicions at this point. Could she be the "most difficult" opponent he had met so far? No matter how bad they were, all of his past foes had upfront personalities. The kingly warriors, Melqart and Athena. Heroic Perseus. The Great Sage Equaling Heaven who simply loved being the center of attention. Lancelot's cool charging spirit. Drawing a clear line between herself and those warriors, this G.o.ddess' behavior often made a display of femininity. "Oh yeah, it was mentioned she is a witch G.o.ddess." 'Come, please let me treat you as a guest this time, Kusanagi-sama.' While G.o.dou could not help but mutter, the G.o.ddess' voice resounded in the sky. 'Fufufufu. I have prepared valuable a.s.sa.s.sins. After all, the power of divine beasts seems unable to capture you!' A glorious sacred beast descended from the sky amidst the dark clouds. It was a white and unruly stallion, its entire body shrouded in golden flames. Unlike the previous divine beasts, its body size was not abnormally large. Although its build was robust, the size was still within common sense for a horse. Kicking its hooves in the air, the stallion flew nimbly through the sky. As soon as he saw that sacred majesty, G.o.dou instantly realized. "G.o.dou-san! That is Verethragna's incarnation — the [White Stallion] stolen by the G.o.ddess!" Yuri also knew from spirit vision. This confirmed G.o.dou's instincts. Not only did she steal, she could also make use of them... 'Due to a lack of time, I was unable to make all of them my servants... Kusanagi-sama, please enjoy a battle with your own kindred!' Informed by the G.o.ddess, G.o.dou frowned. The girls also looked up at the [White Stallion] with grim stares. They too must have noticed the powerful G.o.dly powers residing in the flying divine horse. A troublesome foe had appeared, one vastly surpa.s.sing the "firebird" that had received the G.o.ddess' protection. Part 3 "Joshua said unto the people, Shout; for the Lord hath given you the city. And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and a.s.s, with the edge of the sword. Erica chanted the spell words of smiting in order to wield the [Sacred Privilege of Extermination]. In response to her spell words, Cuore di Leone transformed from a slender longsword into a barbed lance. Simultaneously, an oval s.h.i.+eld also manifested in the red knight's left hand. "They warred against the Midianites, as the Lord commanded Moses; and they slew all the males! And they slew the kings of Midian!"^ ^ It went without saying, this was Liliana's smiting. Her magic saber, II Maestro, transformed into a silver crafted longbow, a deadly weapon for firing sacred arrows of extermination. These were the secret arts of combat magic that stood as the trump cards of European knights. Nevertheless, their target was Kusanagi G.o.dou's oft-used [White Stallion], the symbol of Verethragna as the heaven-sent child of the sun. 'Very well, Kusanagi-sama, the heavenly horse that transports the sun — Savor its power well. Fufu, even if its hooves of scorching flame happen to incinerate you completely, my secret drugs can still revive you from the ashes!' "This is going beyond twisting my arms and legs off!" G.o.dou angrily retorted from the ground in response to the a.s.sertions made by the G.o.ddess' silhouette. From the ashes — G.o.dou was suddenly struck with a thought; immortal deities did indeed exist. In that case, G.o.ds capable of reviving the dead might actually exist. Hopefully not to prove this point, the [White Stallion] charged straight towards him from the sky. "Everyone, please do as we decided earlier. Hurry and run!" G.o.dou instantly yelled. In his current condition, only one incarnation was actually available. In order to fight the most effectively under such restrictions, G.o.dou had already discussed with the girls their battle plan for today. Although contrary to expectations was the enemy's use of existences surpa.s.sing divine beasts as her servants — But the fact remained unchanged that their plan was the best and only solution. Only that the risk of the "bait" role had vastly increased... Erica, Yuri, Liliana and Ena all scattered according to plan. This was to distance themselves from G.o.dou. Just before she left, Erica seemed to be yelling something but G.o.dou could not catch her words clearly. The incoming [White Stallion] from the sky kicked G.o.dou using its front legs. To him, it felt like being sent flying by a collision with a giant dump truck. G.o.dou felt pain from his body as if it was broken all over. He was blown high up into the air. In addition, the burning flames enveloping the [White Stallion] had spread over to his body. Turned into a tumbler toy on fire, G.o.dou flew through the sky. The kicking attack did not kill him instantly, probably because he crossed his arms at the last moment to protect his head. In that case... His remaining move could now be unleashed — ! "All evil-doers, tremble before my strength..." Now awakened in G.o.dou's body was combat power and endurance obtained in exchange for heavy injuries. "Upon my mighty self, I shall bear the symbol of the raging camel!" Falling down on the sand, G.o.dou felt pain all over, but the [Camel] was the ferocious and stalwart incarnation with immense pain toleration. Thanks to this blessing, G.o.dou could endure and stood up immediately. Increasing his magical power at the same time, he dispelled the [White Stallion]'s flames on his body. The golden flames he received had been scorching G.o.dou's body until now. An ordinary human probably would have burned completely, without even a bone remaining. However, these flames were not powerful enough to overcome a Campione's magical resistance and hence disappeared instantly. Despite suffering burns all over his body, G.o.dou was able to endure the current level of pain. However, an ominous voice descended from the sky above. 'Fufufu. The show has only just begun, Kusanagi-sama. — O guardian of the righteous, I offer sacrifice and invite you. The one who grants victory and grace, I will perform justice, please direct me towards the light and the righteous path!' G.o.dou was greatly stunned. To think she was capable of using these spell words!? Ignoring G.o.dou in his state of shock, the [White Stallion] galloped through the sky once more. In the next instant, the white bronco transformed and expanded in the air. Unbelievably, it became a gigantic beast measuring ten meters long! A goat with jet black fur. As if swimming freely in the water, it flew leisurely through the air. "It changed form...!?" As G.o.dou watched in shock, the black goat overhead — the [Goat] incarnation began to bleat. BAAAAAAAAAAAH! Instantly, the goat's giant body released an extra large bolt of lightning, striking mercilessly at G.o.dou on the ground and his surroundings. Fortunately, G.o.dou had already raised his magical power just now. Even divine lightning should not be able to defeat a Campione so easily. "Gun— huh!?" Suffering the terrifying lightning strike, G.o.dou found himself sprawling paralyzed on the beach. Although pain was only natural, his entire body felt numb. During winter, one's fingertip often suffered pain from the shock of static electricity. The current feeling was now a thousand times more intense than that. And the numbing pain was experienced throughout his body. G.o.dou surmised he had been bathed in quite a powerful electrical current. A throbbing pain now attacked his heart. Incredibly, the lightning breached both a Campione's magical resistance and the [Camel]'s endurance, wrecking G.o.dou's body to such an extent. The lightning's power had completely surpa.s.sed expectations. However, the [Goat] flying in the sky had also exhausted almost all of its magical power. The lightning just now should have depleted the majority of its usable power. In that case, a second strike was not coming— just as G.o.dou concluded, yet another transformation took place. The black goat turned back to the form of the [White Stallion]. Enveloped in golden flames, the white bronco flying in the sky — Fiercely kicking the air as it flew, the horse swiftly rose in height. Its figure vanished amidst the dark clouds covering the sky. Immediately afterwards. Wrapped in a golden explosion of flames, the [White Stallion] was cras.h.i.+ng down like a burning meteorite. The target was obviously Kusanagi G.o.dou on the ground. Without any remaining strength to evade, G.o.dou was currently lying collapsed on the beach. Furthermore, the [Ram] that had saved him numerous times from the verge of death was already stolen! An unprecedented crisis. The two paladinos intervened at this very moment. "Midian's destruction, hereby effected!" Accompanied by spell words of destruction, Liliana shot an arrow of light. Sniping at the [White Stallion] that was cras.h.i.+ng towards the earth's surface like a meteor, the sacred silver bow shot an arrow that instantly split into eight, tracing out separate trajectories towards their prey. Since the [White Horse] was galloping towards G.o.dou in a straight line, there was no way for it to evade the arrows. All eight arrows found their mark. The pure white body of the horse, beautiful and strong, was tragically pierced in eight separate locations, two each on its forehead, neck, chest and torso respectively. But in spite of that, the white stallion's descent did not slow down. Enduring the severe injuries, it galloped towards G.o.dou, bringing its flames along! Just as the horse's fiery hooves were mere meters away from shattering G.o.dou's with their kicks, Erica struck the horse of flame from the side. "O horns, collapse the walls of Jericho!" Sacred exterminators were briefly granted the ability to fly. Using this power, Erica flew in a straight line, charging decisively. Striking the airborne [White Stallion] from the side, she stabbed with the tip of her lance. A full-powered thrust with the lance. Even the [White Stallion] was blown away by this attack. NEEEEEEEEEEEEEEIIIIIIIIGH!! The white bronco fell and rolled on the beach, bringing Erica along with it as it neighed shrilly. It was a cry of pain. The blade of sacred extermination had buried itself into the [White Stallion]'s body, inflicting heavy injuries. Erica swiftly stood up and brandished the lance. She intended to make a final decisive thrust. However, another transformation took place. First of all, the flames enveloping the pure white horse turned black in color. Next, the slender face of the horse transformed into a st.u.r.dy bull's head. However, its torso was human — a human body covered with bulging muscles. Moreover, its size was expanding. Immediately, the white horse had completely transformed into a five meter tall giant. With a stalwart bull's head, this was a bull-headed giant. Furthermore, a layer of short, dense, black fur covered its entire body. "— ! This is the [Bull] incarnation!?" Erica wielded her lance to thrust at the bull-headed giant. But at the same time, the giant went "moo" and boldly swung its long, thick, black, right arm, easily sending the incoming lance flying together with Erica's slender body. "Yaaaaaaaaah!" Struck by the [Bull] renowned for its strength, Erica was blown away almost a hundred meters. With that, she fell into the emerald-green sea. Even so, she still managed to block the mighty arm with her s.h.i.+eld, thereby avoiding a critical injury. In spite of all that, she did not loose grip of her weapons. Rather commendable in fact. "Erica!" Seeing her longtime friend and rival sent flying, Liliana shot an arrow of light. The arrow was aimed straight towards the [Bull]'s incarnation of the bull-headed giant. A flash of silver flew towards the black bull's head, but the giant nimbly avoided the arrow. Make no mistake, nimbly indeed. With agile motions one could not imagine from its gigantic body, the giant leaped up high. Then the [Bull] landed before G.o.dou's eyes. It had made its way towards Kusanagi G.o.dou who was lying collapsed on the ground all this time, paralyzed from the electrical attack from earlier! MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM The bull roared ferociously, lifting its foot up high. It was planning to crush G.o.dou beneath the sole of its ma.s.sive foot. "...My body, please endure a while longer!" A crisis of desperate proportions. Nevertheless, this was actually a rare and perfect opportunity. G.o.dou shouted at his sprawling painful body and started rolling on the sand. Two seconds later, the [Bull]'s foot crushed the spot where G.o.dou was lying earlier! "I am the strongest, All enemies, all who harbor enmity will be vanquished !" Chanting Verethragna's scripture during this time, G.o.dou increased the [Camel]'s power. The pain consuming his entire body subsided slightly. The sense of paralysis also dissipated gradually. The rest would rely on tenacity and fighting spirit. G.o.dou gritted his teeth and yelled: "Daaah!" Standing up through sheer willpower, G.o.dou took a leap — The bull-headed giant was five meters tall. Owing to the mighty leap, the ferocious bull's black fur-covered face was now right in front of G.o.dou. Next, using the [Camel]'s leg strength, he unleashed a spinning kick at the [Bull]'s cheeks. MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM The [Bull] cried hoa.r.s.ely, its giant body falling over backwards. The attack was effective, for it succeeded in inflicting substantial pain. But this was nowhere near fatal — With a glint of light flas.h.i.+ng across its eyes, the [Bull] reached out with its stout right arm and caught G.o.dou! "Gwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" Gripped in the black giant's hand, G.o.dou screamed tragically. All the bones in his body were creaking. Very soon, they were all going to be snapped, crushed and shattered. The [Camel] incarnation possessed even better resilience than a Campione's illogically st.u.r.dy body. Nevertheless, no matter how stalwart, this body would surely reach its limits within a minute or two! Even so, G.o.dou still smiled with joy. As guerrilla fighters, the girls on standby surely would not let this opportunity go to waste. "O imperial blade Ama no Murak.u.mo, in your best interests which I shoulder, grant power unto me!" Arriving as expected, Seishuuin Ena was sprinting from the distance, her "partner" in hand! Filling herself with the divine sword's spirit, divine possession was achieved. "Yaaaaaaah!" Ena jumped up high and swung Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi overhead using the ha.s.sou-no-kamae stance.^ Amplified by the might of divine possession, this full-powered slash appeared to spew flames as it made a deep cut on the bull-headed giant's humanoid back. Unable to withstand the attack, the [Bull] fell upon its knees and released its grip on G.o.dou. "Gun..." Tossed onto the sand, G.o.dou groaned. His injuries were very severe indeed. G.o.dou vomited blood but the [Bull]'s heavy injuries were equally serious. Furthermore, ten-odd arrows of light flew in approach immediately. These were the arrows of extermination shot by Liliana. MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!? Struck by the arrows, the bull giant roared in pain. Lying sprawled on the ground and helpless, it had apparently exhausted its strength. "Your Majesty, are you okay!?" Having made display worthy of a mighty general, Ena called out with worry. G.o.dou nodded in response as he panted heavily. This was the best possible battle plan achievable with only the [Camel] incarnation currently at his disposal. At least he pulled it off successfully. Oh well, as a battle plan it was actually quite simple. More injury resistant than anyone else, G.o.dou was to attract the divine beasts' attention. At the same time, Ena's role was to perform guerilla attacks using Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi whenever enemies showed openings while busy with the "bait." As for Erica and Liliana, they were tasked with supporting G.o.dou and Ena as appropriate. Simple as that. That said, given their current battle potential, there was no other way to fight. In actual fact, were the enemies of divine beast cla.s.s, the [Camel] incarnation could have lasted for surprisingly long durations. In that event, breaking through using these foolhardy tactics could very well have succeeded. But unexpectedly, the G.o.ddess was capable of using Verethragna's incarnations as her p.a.w.ns — "Wha— !?" "This time, it's... The [Wind] incarnation!?" Faced with shock and surprise, G.o.dou and Ena were swept into the suddenly manifesting whirlwind. The bull-headed humanoid giant, in other words, the [Bull] that was just defeated, had lost physical form and transformed into a tornado. Normally, Kusanagi G.o.dou was the one switching between combat powers in a diverse display. But this time, the side suffering at the hands of these transformations was G.o.dou himself. Part 4 The wind strengthened all at once and became a tornado by the time one could notice. It started out as a small whirlwind only ten-odd meters in diameter. But now, it had become a violent vortex of wind swirling everything up into the sky, baring its fangs towards G.o.dou and Ena. This was likely working on the same principle as the lightning released by the [Goat] just now. Elevating its power to the maximum possible in exchange for instantaneous depletion of the majority of magical power. In this manner, the Campione and the divine-possessed sword user were devoured by the tornado and swept up into the air. It felt like being thrown into a ma.s.sive was.h.i.+ng machine... Caught in the tornado, G.o.dou and Ena were spun dozens of rotations at high speed. "Gun... Your Majesty! Use Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi together with Ena— Please!" Ena yelled as she tumbled around in the vortex of the storm. Her voice should have been drowned out by the roaring wind. Nevertheless, G.o.dou heard her loud and clear. Her thoughts were being transmitted through Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi which they shared. Thanks to that, G.o.dou was able to know the Hime-Miko of the Sword's wishes without even asking. "Okay, Seishuuin! Let's go!" He imagined the two of them swinging Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi together. This was what G.o.dou and Ena had shared that night at Kisarazu when the divine sword's power was truly mastered. Taking this opportunity when their thoughts were relayed to each other through Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi as the medium, the same could be achieved without resorting to wizardry. Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi possessed the trait of absorbing magical and divine powers. Ena currently planned to use this trait to absorb the [Wind]'s power. Naturally, even a user of divine possession would be incapable of fully absorbing a tempest sent by a heretic G.o.ddess. However, were G.o.dou to simultaneously infuse the divine sword with a Campione's magical power, then in that case — "Strong is the name that shall stand across subsequent generations — handed down by all who hears of his exploits!" In concert with Ena's chanted spell words, G.o.dou poured magical power into Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. Even the impossible could become possible through bonds of wizardry. Then the divine sword in Ena's hand released pitch black light, absorbing the vortex of [Wind]! — The tornado spinning the pair weakened progressively. Although they had already lost count how many revolutions they had been spun, the wind was suppressed all at once, finally dissipating the force that had swept G.o.dou and Ena into the air. They fell down towards the beach from a height of seven or eight meters or so. Ena landed with monkey-like motions. Despite having no training in acrobatics, G.o.dou accomplished the same, thanks to the agility conferred by the [Camel]. However, the spinning from just now had destroyed their sense of balance, causing great discomfort. Greatly exhausted, the pair instantly collapsed and sat on the ground. That said, they were at least liberated from the [Wind]. "G.o.dou, Ena-san!" "You two, are you okay!?" Erica and Liliana ran towards them, the former from the sea and the latter from inland respectively. The red knight was unhurt. The [Bull]'s. .h.i.t that sent her flying had apparently not caused any injuries. Although she was dressed lightly in a swimsuit, the sacred privilege of extermination must have protected her. Wielding the barbed lance and s.h.i.+eld, Erica bore a stern and imposing countenance. Liliana was also carrying her sacred bow of silver. G.o.dou nodded at the two of them. He could not answer because he was desperately enduring the sense of nausea. Ena was completely exhausted. "The [Wind] just now, it felt like it escaped just before it was completely destroyed..." □liana's power of spirit vision allowed to her to see things beyond the naked eye. She was looking towards the sea. Prompted by her, everyone turned their gaze to follow suit. A solemn expression surfaced on all their faces, for a new incarnation was manifesting. Upon the emerald-green sea. At this cove serving as the island's entrance... Over on the sea, black flames were burning. These were also flames that G.o.dou had summoned many times before. 'So says Lord Mithra. The sinful shall be met with justice...' The G.o.ddess' voice came from the sky above. These spell words that G.o.dou had always chanted, were now spoken softly by the G.o.ddess. 'The one unblunted and unapproachable, oath-breaking sinners be purged by the iron hammer of justice — !' The black flames over the sea started transforming into a pitch-black divine beast. Body length estimated to be twenty meters. A pitch-black gigantic beast of a [Boar] bearing a stalwart appearance. However, only the majestic head alone had manifested so far. Below the neck, the rest of the body had yet to form from the black flames. Apparently, the G.o.ddess could not summon and manifest the [Boar] as quickly as G.o.dou. 'Fufufu. Despite the number of strong children among Kusanagi-sama's kindred, I have bestowed special care upon this one as my servant in particular! It does take quite a while longer to summon... But only this child is worthy of the wait!' Despite clearly in the middle of the summoning process, the G.o.ddess spoke as if victory was certain. But one could not disagree. The incarnations she had sent out one after another were all extremely strong. It would be apt to call them the simple arrangement version of G.o.dou's powers. However, the divine beast being born over the sea was different. Were it to manifest completely, it could very well possess size, appearance and power no different from Verethragna's fifth incarnation as summoned by G.o.dou. Just through a single glance at its face, once could tell the ferocity of this monster. Hovering over the sea were the black flames and the gigantic boar head. Grunting as it exhaled violently, the [Boar] glared condescendingly at the beach, roaring from its grotesque mouth. oooooooooooooooooooooooo. . . Soon to be liberated on the ground to bring destruction to all, it seemed to be expressing its joy of antic.i.p.ation. "This must be something she held in reserve. What a troublesome trump card." "Weaker than under Kusanagi G.o.dou's control — as much as one would hope for that, we cannot tell without a fight..." Erica and Liliana nodded at each other, their expressions tense from the will to fight. On the other hand, G.o.dou and Ena's states were far from ready. Already heavily injured, G.o.dou felt as if his body was made of lead. His movements were also very sluggish. Were it not for the [Camel]'s exceptional trauma endurance, G.o.dou would have fainted a long time ago. Then there was Ena who had used divine possession thrice already in three days. Moreover, using a Campione's magical power, she had just drawn out Ama no Murak.u.mo's powers at a level beyond human limits. The tough child of nature was clearly approaching her limits, her body shaking unsteadily. "Don't force yourself, Seishuuin. Rest for a while!" "Nonsense, Your Majesty. How could I remain idle at a time like this..." Ena remained stubborn. In a rare moment, her voice lacked her usual cheerfulness. Using Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi as a crutch, she supported herself. "You cannot, Ena-san!" The one who reprimanded the Hime-Miko of the Sword was Yuri who was supposed to have retreated to the rear. "Your life will surely be endangered if you continue like this! I absolutely forbid you to act recklessly!" Yuri spoke with a terrifying and intimidating expression. However, she walked over to the weakened Ena's side and caressed her back gently like a mother. A spell of caressing — she was applying recovery wizardry to heal Ena's painful body. Ena's trump card, divine possession, was said to require a week's interval between successive usage. Exceeding this frequency would mercilessly wear away her mind and body — Indeed. G.o.dou nodded. Yuri must have run over to heal and restrain Ena because she knew her childhood friend was at her limits. "But everyone could very well be taken out, so having Ena rest by herself is meaningless. This is the time for a last stand. Don't worry, I'll just force myself a little and still be fine." "How absurdly driven by emotion you are, Ena-san. I now understand the reason why you get along with G.o.dou so well." Erica commented with a frown. Also, the tone of her voice sounded more "deeply impressed" than surprised. "But no, denied. Please stay still obediently. Verethragna's [Boar] is nowhere lacking as an opponent for knights. Please leave this for us to handle." "Indeed, it has come to this." Liliana spoke up. "Ever since we came to this island, you have been the one protecting Kusanagi G.o.dou all this time. It is about time you let us have an opportunity to take the stage." G.o.dou nodded vigorously in agreement. However, the silver-haired knight frowned in response, expressing her regrets to him. "Allow me to add to that, Kusanagi G.o.dou. You too should also rest, right?" "Eh?" In the instant G.o.dou asked in response, he suffered an unexpected attack. Liliana performed a sweeping kick. Although G.o.dou intended to evade, his legs were unable to move. Swept off balance splendidly, he fell over on his bottom. Seeing him like that, Liliana and Erica both sighed. "I knew it... Only your sense of pain is numbed, but your body is already at its limits." "You have acc.u.mulated extraordinary injuries starting from earlier. I had a feeling this would happen if you lost your incarnation of immortality." "I-I'm fine. My wounds are healing at an incredible rate." "Well. Using healing magic combined with the [Camel]'s recovery abilities, perhaps you could force your body a little more." In response to G.o.dou's protests, Erica replied with deep thought. "Honestly, it is impossible to fight that [Boar] barehanded." Everyone turned their gaze towards the cove. What was just a [Boar]'s head a while ago had now manifested to its chest area. Once the flames formed the gigantic beast's body completely, the pitch-black destroyer was probably going to rush onto the beach with terrifying vigor... For the [Camel] which offered no other means of attack apart from "kicking," it was a most difficult opponent indeed. "I'm not barehanded. One could still say I have a weapon." G.o.dou threw his "partner" a glance. Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi that Ena had stabbed into the sand to use as a crutch. Walking over with unsteady steps, G.o.dou grabbed the sword's hilt. Despite his reluctance to get close to dangerous tools like swords, it was the time to put pacifism aside for now. "Are you able to use it without Seishuuin Ena?" "I should be. I managed it during the Kisarazu battle against Lancelot..." While thinking about how careless he was, G.o.dou replied to Liliana's question. Indeed, Kusanagi G.o.dou only truly used Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi for the first time back then, in a clash with Lancelot who wielded the Divine Sword of Salvation. "Besides, relying on you two, Liliana and Erica, to do something like fighting the [Boar], that's not gonna work. Unless that guy gets struck by firepower on the [White Stallion]'s level, there's no hope for victory..." Well, the question was whether Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi had that level of destructive power. The "partner" had exhibited its highest level of destructive power during the Kisarazu battle. In order to oppose the Divine Sword of Salvation used by the "King of the End," the silver-haired G.o.ddess had powered up Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. The mortal enemy in the form of a p.u.b.escent girl with silver hair and eyes of night. The G.o.ddess bound to him by a strange twist of fate. How nostalgic to recall the opponent who vexed him by escaping after her victory, it was a lonely feeling. Heretic Athena — 'Farewell is unneeded. One day, this G.o.ddess shall return, reincarnated, to seek you for revenge. Because no matter when, the only one allowed to defeat Kusanagi G.o.dou is this G.o.ddess!' The bold declaration uttered at the point of farewell. Her fighting spirit was completely opposite to the "femininity" displayed by the current G.o.ddess G.o.dou was fighting. Rather than bold, one would prefer to describe her as n.o.ble. And there were her words. The one and only parting gift she had given... — the [Gate] had opened for but an instant. Creation of heaven and earth. The death and birth of stars. The blade forged through the G.o.ddess' wisdom. That was it. They had also banked on Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi back then. The steel that greedily devoured the enemy's power to a.s.similate as its own. That characteristic was essential for a drastic move. If you are in need of strength at this time, why not infuse me, the divine sword, with the most powerful wisdom — ? "G.o.dou, what's with you?" "Kusanagi G.o.dou!?" "Your Majesty...?" The voices of his companions sounded distant. However, what occupied G.o.dou's field of view was neither the sight of the girls in their swimsuits nor the emerald-green sea. It was a pair of eyes. Owl eyes s.h.i.+ning amidst darkness. G.o.dou also sensed it. He sensed a "certain secret technique" dormant within his body. "G.o.dou-san... Please pull yourself together!" Suddenly, he felt someone touch his hand. The tactile sensation caused G.o.dou to return to himself. Brought back to his senses, G.o.dou found Yuri by his side. She had placed her hands over G.o.dou's hands that were holding Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. Erica, Liliana and Ena watched with a face of wonderment. G.o.dou shook his head hazily. He seemed to have caught a glimpse just now. Heaven and earth's creation, the technique embodying destruction and creation. The wisdom of the universe left behind by the G.o.ddess of earth and darkness — "...Ugh. What on earth is this..." Carved into the depths of his heart and mind, a powerful secret technique in the abyss. A relic left behind by the deceased rival. The gate was currently opening. However, this wisdom was far too colossal. Given G.o.dou's capacity instead of a G.o.ddess', comprehension should be impossible regardless. No good. It was impossible to control no matter what. Precious long-awaited power was obtained yet it was going to be wasted... Just at this moment. "G.o.dou-san. Please look at me. Do not worry." Once again reminded by Yuri's voice, G.o.dou jumped in surprise. The Hime-Miko was staring directly into G.o.dou's eyes. Her adorable and beautiful face was pressed rather near. It was almost like past times when she transmitted knowledge about G.o.ds. Finding himself at this type of close separation, G.o.dou began to panic. But thanks to that, his sense of self returned. He was also greatly surprised by Yuri's murmuring whispers. "Steel embodying the birth and death of stars... The dark blade of heaven and earth's creation. The flames of the scorching jet-black divine sword... I saw them too." Yuri spoke solemnly. She was having a spirit vision. The other girls were staring at the Hime-Miko with amazement. Moreover, Yuri's eyes had changed to the color of gla.s.s at some point in time. G.o.dou realized at this time. Eyes the color of gla.s.s. Radiant flaxen-colored hair. These characteristics belonged to the Princess of Gla.s.s residing in the Netherworld. Yuri's current appearance was the splitting image of the Netherworld's n.o.ble one. Speaking of which, Yuri's hair color was heavily shaded brown for a Yamato Nades.h.i.+ko. G.o.dou began to wonder for no apparent reason. Suppose the Princess of Gla.s.s was the root of the Hime-Miko bloodline. Then the Hime who most strongly displayed the inherited blood and spiritual powers of the distant ancestor — wouldn't that happen to be Mariya Yuri? "The secret technique the G.o.ddess left behind in G.o.dou-san's body... I think it is probably through the opened gate that I am able to see it... Let us forge it together." G.o.dou was rendered dumbfounded by Yuri's resolute proposal. "Let us forge. To forge the sword of the beginning and the end. I shall guide you." Part 5 Over the sea in the cove, the [Boar] finally finished materializing. A stalwart black boar's head, chest, front legs, torso, rear end and even hind legs were already manifested, surfacing on the sea like a giant whale. The only remaining body part still shrouded in flames was the tail. "Let us take this opportunity to make an attempt." Liliana suggested softly and drew her sacred bow of silver. Injecting the privilege of extermination, she shot an arrow of light. Although the beach where she stood was roughly two hundred meters from the [Boar]'s location on the sea, the arrow from a paladino's a.r.s.enal flew straight across this distance instantly. The target was the [Boar]'s eyeball. But the instant before the splendid shot would meet its mark... The arrow of light was deflected as if i