Campione! Vol 3 Chapter 4

Chapter 4 - Secret Tome of Prometheus Part 1 Having bid Lucretia goodbye, G.o.dou and Erica were silent as they walked out the door. What should be done next? Just as G.o.dou sighed lightly, a lively ringtone was heard from Erica's cellphone. Immediately taking out a red cellphone from her pocket, Erica answered in Italian. G.o.dou watched her from the side. Erica's expression and tone of voice were very serious. Could there be an emergency? She hung up after about five minutes, and suddenly glared at G.o.dou. "G.o.dou, didn't you say this morning? About this morning's embarra.s.sment, you will make amends even if it means ritual suicide by seppuku?'- 1 ^ Were you lying to me?" "Of course I was lying, who would want to commit seppuku for that!" "Hmph, then I'll regard it as just an expression — listen well, you have to come along." "Ah? Why?" G.o.dou questioned, seeing Erica giving him orders in a matter-of-fact manner. In the next instant, her gaze aimed at G.o.dou carried the same derision as if watching a fool. "Though you yourself are a useless amateur, but that grimoire — the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] is different. Though Lucretia did not tell us its functions, there is no harm in bringing it along." That's right, the power of the grimoire was not revealed to us after all. When we asked the original owner, the only answer we got was something like 'Shouldn't you find out the hidden powers of an item yourself? Asking about it would be just as tasteless as reading a strategy guide for an RPG.' Recalling Lucretia's levity in att.i.tude, G.o.dou couldn't help but feel depressed. Or perhaps, it was a decision taken under careful consideration? "So, why don't you carry my luggage for now? Serve me as a sign of your sincerity to make amends. Do you understand?" "...You're not going to point a sword at me, then rob it?" "As a Great Knight of the Copper Black Cross, I have sworn not to do such a despicable thing! If such an oath were to be broken, I would be a laughingstock!" Erica spoke with great emotion. To think that oath sworn would have such important significance. So, what should Kusanagi G.o.dou do? Obediently tag along with Erica, or escape? Or simply stuff that whatever grimoire into her hands and go directly back to j.a.pan? G.o.dou picked the fourth option. "I'm going back to see Lucretia-san, please wait a bit for me!" Without waiting for Erica's response, he turned around and went back to the witch's home. This time he opened the door by his own hands, and entered Lucretia's room. "How disappointing, young man. Intruding into a woman's bedroom uninvited. Complete failure. Quickly close the door, and calm down." Lucretia Zola was lying on the bed, gazing at G.o.dou with eyes which were about to fall asleep. Wrapped under the blankets, this time she did not raise her body to speak. She really was very tired. To watch a battle between G.o.ds in proximity, and survive — probably a task more difficult than G.o.dou could imagine. "Having said goodbye ten minutes ago, and then returning so soon. Could your heart be stolen by my beauty, and you came back for a love confession? Oh well, can't blame you. When a boy in p.u.b.erty meets a beauty like me, such pa.s.sionate behavior cannot be helped." "No, that's completely wrong." G.o.dou replied swiftly, he won't let her control the flow of the conversation. Due to the extremely broad range of friends of the sociable grandfather and mother, G.o.dou was well accustomed to dealing with this type of strange person. "You clearly look so similar to your grandfather, but I don't see any verbal gift in pleasing women. Still, I'm quite interested in you. What do you wish to speak with me?" Lucretia finally opened her eyes. As if scrutinizing G.o.dou's face, she stared straight at him. "Weren't Lucretia-san's words just now a bit too strange? Like Erica said, giving her the stone tablet would definitely be better than the current situation." "Hohoho, but I also said, I picked the more interesting choice." "That was absolutely not a lie, I understand. But I feel that — it's not entirely your true intentions, otherwise I wouldn't get the feeling I was playing along." "Hey, so you think I have other motives, young man." Hearing G.o.dou's words, Lucretia giggled with laughter. "Yes, before I get tired of the whole incident and dump this stone tablet in the trash can, please tell me the truth. That would be a great help." "Threatening me instead! Excellent, that's more like Ichirou's grandson. Stubborn like him, but in a completely different way. You can't be underestimated. Yes, otherwise, there would have been no point in handing things to you." Lucretia looked very happy and was laughing on the bed. "Fine, I will explain directly. It's actually nothing important, but I just want you to act as that little lady's restraint. Take her down a notch. If you give the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] to her directly, she will immediately take it for duels against G.o.ds, that genius!" "...She is someone that amazing?" "Yes, Erica Blandelli is said to be the treasured prodigy of the Copper Black Cross, but that's not the dangerous part. The danger lies in the fact that she has yet to understand the terror of [Heretic G.o.ds]... In fact, I did consider the option of retrieving the grimoire and hiding it." "Then why not do that?" "Because that thing will definitely come in handy. So, I wish to hand it over to some mage. And then when Sir Salvatore arrives, pa.s.s it over and let him use it effectively — that was one of the plans I conceived." "Sir Salvatore?" Another character addressed with t.i.tle "Sir", G.o.dou tilted his head in puzzlement. Was he a famous person knighted over in Britain? "Yes, that's right. Perhaps he is the one who can resolve this incident in one fell swoop. A great and important man who is impossible for an unaffiliated mage like me to approach, so it's better to hand the grimoire over to Erica-san who is from a prestigious family. Can you accept it now?" "Got it, yes... In other words, you hope I can be a hindrance to Erica?" "Correct answer! So young man, what do you plan to do?" Realizing the intentions of this elderly witch, G.o.dou began to ponder. Knowing Lucretia's intentions now, should he follow her wishes? What should he do? He was truly displeased with the witch's intentions, but this island has been met with a situation beyond human knowledge, and people's peaceful lives were being disrupted. He didn't think he could resolve the issue himself, but he can't stay out of it and do nothing. G.o.dou sighed, if he didn't see this through to the very end, he wouldn't be able to return to j.a.pan with a peace of mind. "I know, as long as there is no danger to my life, I will follow and act with that fellow." "Yes, that would be a very great help. Let me toast to you another day in recognition of your courage and meddlesome ways." "Don't call me meddlesome! It could very well turn out to be life threatening!" He had witnessed divine power at Cagliari. G.o.dou was not so naive that he would believe himself to be safe, having witnessed that scene. In front of that kind of threat, humans were as insignificant as grains of sand. "Hohoho, don't be angry. For you to successfully reach here in a country with a language barrier, that indicates luck is on your side. If it gets dangerous, run away, I won't blame you. I pray that good fortune be with you." Finally, Lucretia smiled peacefully as she gazed at G.o.dou's face. Like an old lady watching a grandson, or an older sister blessing a brother on his journey of growth. It was an ambiguous expression. Part 2 "What, G.o.dou. You've finally finished your secret talks with that woman? ...How shameless." Seeing G.o.dou step out of Lucretia's home once again, Erica murmured to herself. "Who are you calling shameless?! I just have some things to confirm with that person." "Shameless enough to do something behind my back. If it's nothing shameful, then you would have done it openly? Fine, whatever. Hurry up and go, the next destination is Dorgali." "Why are we going there? Have you found news of that guy?" Erica had indicated their next destination was an hour away by car as G.o.dou questioned her. It would be great if the youth he last saw in Cagliari was safe and sound. "No, but his chances of appearing are quite high... Our spirit vision users at the Copper Black Cross have discerned the gathering of magical power in the area around Dorgali." "Magical power?" "Correct, and very powerful. The reason why I went to Cagliari, was also because spirit vision found a similar concentration of magic there, and then the boy and the [Boar] appeared." Come to think of it, Lucretia also mentioned spirit vision. Spirit vision users had talent like prophets, and the phone call just now, was apparently a report from them. "To predict something like this, how amazing, can they see everything?" "It's not like that. The content of their spirit vision is very limited, like now, we still have no idea of the ident.i.ty of the deity on this island — however, it would be different if a spirit vision user of the highest level were here. Unfortunately, people possessing that kind of talent are exceedingly rare." A spirit vision user's powers were predominantly determined by inborn disposition. Come to think of it, if people with clairvoyance were common, it would actually be quite horrible. Accepting that, G.o.dou changed his mood. Hearing that the youth might appear, he suddenly began to feel anxious and wanted to know as quickly as possible whether he was safe. "How are we going to get there? Train or bus, which one?" "Neither, get a car and driver!" Still, to expect a taxi cab in this town in the countryside — In the end, compared to calling for a cab from a taxi company in Nuoro, it would be faster to take a bus directly. Having concluded that, G.o.dou and the unhappy Erica got on the bus. Dorgali was a little town on the coast. It had valleys near the sea, as well as steep river valleys around it. Erica had mentioned that Dorgali was surrounded by abundant natural resources, and has been designated as a national park. Along the b.u.mpy undulating mountain road, the bus quickly sped. "— Hmm? It's raining?" Watching outside the window, G.o.dou suddenly found the sky darken. Soon grey clouds appeared and covered the sky like a heavy curtain. "Raining? No, that's not it." Hearing G.o.dou mutter to himself, Erica turned back to face him. (By the way, even though the seat beside G.o.dou was vacant, she ignored it and took the seat in front.) "It almost never rains in Sardinia this time of the year, you didn't even know that?" A Mediterranean climate. Warm, dry, very little rainfall. This island, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, obviously belonged to that climate region as well. "Then, could it be..." "Exactly as you imagine. Perhaps some strange incident will happen — most likely the omen of divine presence." A few minutes after Erica's prophesy, the short bus trip ended. Dorgali was a very small town at the foot of a mountain. There were only a few shops and a police station along the main road where the bus stop was simply marked by a sign. Getting off, the first things G.o.dou and Erica noticed were the dark clouds in the sky. Compared to what they saw on the bus, the clouds were clearly more numerous. Making the cloudless clear sky an hour ago seem like an illusion, the first overcast skies G.o.dou saw in Sardinia was giving him a great ominous feeling. "—It's here." Erica suddenly spoke. And then, rain drops began pelting G.o.dou's face. It finally began to rain. Heavy rain like a sudden shower, but this was probably not what Erica was referring to. Just as G.o.dou thought that, a golden light suddenly flashed. Cras.h.!.+ As the sound of thunder roared, lightning struck, and the wind began to pick up rapidly. — A storm. Without any warning signs, the storm arrived just like that. And then G.o.dou noticed something. Casually flying amidst the storm was a four-legged giant beast — a [Goat] in the middle of the sky. Like a Chinese dragon hovering in the air, a giant [Goat] with neither feathers nor wings, leading the wind, clouds and rain, dancing with the thunder in the sky. Since it was very far away, its precise size could not be determined. Still, it couldn't be smaller than the [Boar] sighted in Cagliari. Its furry hide was white, and there were two long horns extending from its head. Roar! The [Goat] roared loud and sonorously, and blew a sudden gust of strong wind. Calling out again, this time it was thunder and lightning descending upon the ground. This town was virtually all built with wood, but since it was raining, it was fortunate that one did not need to worry about a fire hazard. Even so, it did not change the fact that there was a disaster. With lifeless eyes, G.o.dou watched the heroic form of the [Goat]. "Is that also an incarnation born from the sword G.o.d?" "Probably, if possible I really want to use the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]'s ability to stop it, and then make direct contact, but it can't be done." The feeling he got from Erica suddenly changed, and G.o.dou was very surprised. A feeling of splendor like fire and gold, an extremely brave and intense will exuded from her beauty and her eyes. It was a majestic and unapproachable figure, like a top cla.s.s partic.i.p.ant just before a compet.i.tion began. "Come, my sword, Cuore di Leone. Blade that guards the throne of the lion! I beseech the predecessors of red and black. Grant your protection to my body and my chivalry!" And then Erica began chanting the words like a spell. Immediately following, the slightly familiar slender sword and a red cape, never seen before, appeared out of the air. Wielding the sword in her right hand, Erica majestically wrapped the cape around herself with her left. The cape had a bold design with black stripes on a red background, and particularly suited Erica's beauty and blonde hair. In an instant, G.o.dou felt deeply attracted. "I will approach that [Goat] to investigate. G.o.dou you should find a place to hide. We will meet up later." "You plan on fighting against that thing?" "Of course not! I am just investigating. No matter where you are, I can find you with magic. Be my guest, find a place to hide!" Leaving those words behind, Erica rushed forth. Speeding like an arrow through the raining streets as if she was flying, this speed was completely beyond human limits. Could this also be magic? As G.o.dou reacted in surprise, he watched as she receded in the distance. "...This is not a leisurely situation, I'd better find a place to hide quickly." Checking out the situation in the streets, G.o.dou was shocked. The sudden storm and thunder. And then, the giant monster flying in the air. With so many ma.s.sive anomalies, Dorgali finally began to have a commotion. There were those who opened their windows to check out the storm conditions, only to be shocked by the scene in the air. Cries of terror, screams of surprise, chaotic disturbances, the public was wailing as if fallen into h.e.l.l. The storm blew timber and light objects like cloth into the sky. Lightning periodically lit up the darkness of the overcast skies, while thunder descending from the heavens torched the earth and demolished buildings. Who could have thought such a ma.s.sive uproar could happen in a little town of several thousand in population. " — Running away recklessly would be even worse, what should I do?" Seeing the chaos in the town, G.o.dou couldn't help muttering to himself. Since G.o.dou already knew part of the reasons why this was happening, he was able to maintain his natural calm. Watching the people in chaos — he was able to notice. Like himself, there was another youth calmly observing the panicking crowd. A handsome youth so outstanding that one could never forget his face having seen him once. The two exchanged glances. One smiled nostalgically, while the other showed a troubled expression. G.o.dou had wanted to see him, wanted all along to confirm if he was safe. However, faced with this sudden encounter, he had a feeling of doubt. Whenever the G.o.d's incarnations appeared, the youth was also witnessed. Wasn't this just as Erica had described? Part 3 Running. Erica Blandelli was using the [Leap] technique to make her body lighter as she ran at full strength. Running towards the numerous buildings that were struck by lightning, all sorts of objects that were blown away by the violent wind, and the heavily damaged little town corroded by the rare rainstorm. In fact, Erica was so fast she might as well be flying. The stone paved streets were breaking apart, and she leapt between roofs, streetlights, and all sorts of footholds on buildings, her feet rarely if ever touching the ground. It was difficult to build high rise buildings in Europe, particularly Italy. Since there were many cities possessing iconic sights like the Tower of Pisa or the Coliseum, in order not to affect the scenery, there were many legal regulations preventing the construction of high rise buildings. Erica thought it was a shame. — If there was a taller building, she could get a lot closer to the [Goat]. Dorgali's buildings were five or six stories max, while the [Goat] was flying leisurely a couple tens of meters above in the sky. Though Erica was called a genius in magic, she did not know the techniques of flying. Her specialty was [Iron], the ability to manipulate iron and steel like her own arms and legs for the purposes of offense and defense. Flying, spirit vision and the preparation of potions belonged to the domain of true witches like Lucretia Zola. Finally reaching the top of some tower, Erica took a deep breath as she halted her steps. Even though her goal was investigation, watching from such a far distance was not very useful. Nothing ventured, nothing gained — She needed to take a gamble now. Though she had never used it in real combat, that spell — the secret technique mentioned in the report to her uncle, it was time to try it out. Agonizing for about ten seconds, she immediately made her decision. She will first make the venture, then decide when to advance or to retreat as the situation dictates. "Eli Eli lama sabachthani? Oh Lord, why hast thou forsaken me?"^ Erica chanted in a loud voice. The Golgotha spell words were an incantation of fury and prayer, calling forth hate and regret. "O my G.o.d, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent. But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the [31 J praises of Israel." 1 J Pointing Cuore di Leone towards the sky with her right hand. This sword was paired with II Maestro, the magic sword of her rival Liliana Kranjcar. In the past, these were two precious swords forged for the sake of two great knights bearing the t.i.tles of the Lion King and the Fairy King. Erica and Liliana had discovered the two swords in the catacombs beneath Florence, and each claimed one of the pair as their personal weapon. "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death. For dogs have compa.s.sed me: the a.s.sembly of the wicked have enclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet."^ This was the disastrous song of despair, carrying anger at the Lord who withheld salvation even at the verge of death. "But be not thou far from me, O Lord: O my strength, haste thee to help me. Deliver my soul from the sword; Save me from the lion's mouth: for T51 thou hast heard me from the horns of wild oxen!" 1 J This was a hymn of prayer, containing the absolute will pledging allegiance to the Lord in the face of certain death. "I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee."^ The name of the spell was [Oh Lord! Why hast thou forsaken me?] Of all the techniques pa.s.sed down by the Copper Black Cross, recognized as one of the most difficult of the secret arts. — Feeling the chill of the icy cold air, Erica knew she had succeeded. From her lips came the proud smile of a lioness. Clearly not the result of the storm, the surrounding temperature was gradually falling. Erica's spell words, has summoned bone-chilling cold. The hill of Golgotha, the same air as the place where the Son of G.o.d perished, this same freezing air was now filling Erica's surroundings. Simply bathed in this cold air would cause an ordinary person's heart to go numb. Then for a G.o.d — or a similar divine existence, of course it would still be extremely uncomfortable. And so the [Goat] lowered its gaze. It slowly descended towards Erica's location. Provocation successful, Erica smiled as she leapt to a neighboring rooftop. She began to observe the [Goat]. Extremely intelligent eyes. Goats were fundamentally very smart animals, though they resembled stupid sheep in appearance, they were exceptionally alert and clever. So this was only natural. When she met the [Boar] at Cagliari, the [Wind] G.o.d had appeared before she had a chance to get near like this. Though she saw the battle between the black boar and the tornado from afar, she could not get close to observe. However, at this close range she could now see that the [Goat] did not have intelligence like a divine beast. Probably only animal intelligence — that was the likely level. — Let's test it. "Cuore di Leone, I grant to you the weeping cries of the son of G.o.d and the Holy Spirit, become the spear of Longinus!" Using the magic of [Transformation] on her beloved sword, she changed its form to a spear. Infusing it with the spell words or despair, this gave Cuore di Leone the same magical power as the holy spear that pierced the son of G.o.d. Thus a magical weapon was born, capable of harming G.o.ds and making them bleed. "Saint Thomas, share your martyrdom with others!" Accompanying the new spell words, Erica threw the spear forward. Granted the curse of never missing its target, even a G.o.d could not escape the thrown spear, let alone existences beneath G.o.ds — like divine or sacred beasts. The spear left a deep open wound on the lower abdomen of the [Goat]. Roar! The giant beast's painful cries reached up into the heavens. Erica recalled Cuore di Leone using magic, having confirmed her hunch, that the divine beast born from the [Heretic G.o.d] — an opponent of that level can be handled with her power alone! However, her opponent was not so weak as to allow an easy victory without preparation. As Erica a.n.a.lyzed the battle potential of her enemy, the [Goat] roared noisily. Lightning continually descended from the sky. The target was clearly the insolent one who had injured the divine beast. Instinctively, Erica began running before the thunder and lightning could burn her into charcoal. Cras.h.!.+ Lightning flashed, while thunder roared. Intense lightning struck the place she had been standing only two seconds ago. Feeling the impact and the hot breeze that shook her skin, she decided it was probably time to retreat. Even if the fight continued in this manner, she could only maintain the current situation at best. Having decided to retreat, Erica leapt once again, moving to the next rooftop, and jumped repeatedly. If she stood still, she would be immediately burnt to ash by the [Goat]'s lightning. Erica glanced up at the sky. Running across the air — no, hovering in the air was the giant [Goat]. Up until now, all the divine beasts that appeared had been defeated by the mysterious tornado, but what about this [Goat]? Will the opposing deity appear? As she pondered over these things, Erica calculated her escape route. Jumping down directly and mixing herself amongst the crowd would be the safest, but that would also bring great tragedy. Erica went 'hmph' and quickly abandoned the notion. As a proud knight, how could she possibly choose such a despicable manner of retreat? Of course it was rejected resolutely. Then, there was only one path to pick. The direction towards the steep mountains that could be seen from Cagliari. Erica continued to jump and make her way towards that direction. By doing so, at least she could lead the [Goat] away from the streets, giving people more time to escape. That was what she concluded. "Thou art still alive, boy, looks like our lives are very tough to extinguish." Getting out of the fleeing crowd with great difficulty — The two met once again and those were the youth's first words, spoken with his usual casual tone. "Yes, let me say first, I was very worried about you... Though I've been travelling from place to place, your safety weighed heavily in my heart all along." Looking over the youth's appearance in detail, G.o.dou replied. As before, the youth was wearing a tattered coat. His face was very delicate and proper, with a kind of fleeting charm that remained unchanged from the time they first met in Cagliari. But there was a certain sense of dissonance. G.o.dou felt strange, this guy was different from before. There was no change in appearance, but something was obviously off. What was it? "Hoho, thy instincts are excellent. With the proper education, perhaps thou wilt become an amazing priest." Watching the puzzled G.o.dou, the youth smiled. His smiling face was the same as before, but somehow it gave off a more adult feeling. — Wait a minute. What did this guy just say? "Hey, you just said something strange. Something about education and priests." "Payest no heed, I was just talking to myself. Rather, thou shouldst thank destiny for letting us meet once again. Our fates seem to be deeply intertwined." No, this was absolutely not the result of destiny but human intent. The reason they came was because Kusanagi G.o.dou and Erica Blandelli had expected to meet the youth here. However, why did he not have the courage to speak out about this? Sensing his hesitation in this affair, G.o.dou found a different feeling was surfacing, one unlike the mutual feelings he shared with the youth when they first met. Cras.h.!.+ At this time, the crash of thunder sounded. Lightning was striking nearby? G.o.dou and the youth looked up and surveyed the surroundings. "—Erica!" Several flashes of lightning could be seen descending, while Erica was jumping left and right to evade them. Seeing this scene unfold, G.o.dou could not help crying out. If this continued, wouldn't she be fried to death by lightning in one hit? Despite the horrific situation, Erica's running silhouette still carried such righteous poise. The giant [Goat] had begun flying close to the surface at some point. Gliding over the buildings pursuing the beautiful blonde girl, the direction Erica was headed was the foot of the mountains outside of town. Moving rapidly between roofs, Erica ran like an arrow. She was probably doing this to prevent creating more victims in Dorgali. However, was it really safe for her to run over wide open s.p.a.ces without any cover? Forgetting their disputes over the past few days, G.o.dou was now consumed with worry for Erica's safety. "What is this, that girl came as well. Looketh like our fates are very intertwined too." Under such conditions, the youth still maintained his leisurely airs. "Yes, a lot has happened and I am currently travelling with her. Anyway, if this continues it might get tragic. I am going to chase after her! What are you going to do!?" "Thou oughtst give up. Even if thou goest over, thou wilt not be of any use." The youth calmly advised G.o.dou who had exclaimed recklessly without thought. G.o.dou only shook his head strongly, refuting with determination. "Even so, I cannot watch and do nothing!" Erica was definitely an annoying woman. Every time she spoke, it was mostly displeasing complaints. Treating others with friendly pa.s.sion, but always mocking him mercilessly when she spoke to him, as well as being willful, self-centered, even so... She wasn't someone so hated that he could abandon her at a time of need. G.o.dou ran in the same direction as her, determined. Though she was very annoying in many areas, it is a fact that she was now fighting alone, taking on a G.o.d as her opponent. Pretending not to see and ignoring her need for a.s.sistance — impossible. Of course, G.o.dou knew this was stupid and impulsive, but even so. "Thou art truly a fool. Though thou art a fool, that girl is not much better, fighting alone is proof of that. There are clearly simpler ways to escape, but she chooseth such a difficult one." The youth was surprised. "And I, observing, somehow cannot watch her perish without aid, how vexing!" Come to think of it, didn't this youth also possess incredible powers? G.o.dou thought back to when they parted ways at Cagliari, when he experienced the youth's unbelievable power of domination — was that also magic? Or powerful hypnosis? If that kind of power was used again, it would be problematic. As G.o.dou tried to retreat, the youth smiled. A cla.s.sic and quaint smile. With a kind of fleeting essence, it was a smile like mist. At this time G.o.dou noticed, the reason why he felt a dissonance when they met again, was here. The youth was more unnatural than before, compared to a living human, it felt more like facing an intricately crafted Buddha statue. An indescribable sense of dissonance. "Restest a.s.sured, though ye are all fools, but foolish children are very adorable. I shall not stop thee, in fact I will grant thee power — so, takest out that object thou hidest." Suddenly the youth held out his hand. "W-What am I hiding?" "Is that not so? When I first talked to thee at the pier, its taste attracted me. I can feel that thing's taste is even more intense than last time. Makest haste, openest that bundle." "That stone tablet!" The youth's gaze was focused on G.o.dou's backpack, and he finally understood. G.o.dou hurriedly took out the stone tablet — [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. "Yes, no mistake, this hidest ancient wisdom — never would I think such a specimen still lay hidden in the mortal realm. With this, even in my current state, I can resolve the matter." The ancient stone tablet whose surface depicted an imprisoned man in a childish drawing. The youth narrowed his eyes with interest, looking at the picture. "Oh, the punished t.i.tan... Sun... Fire... Foolish commoners... Salvation. I see, this carriest the power of [Theft]! Haha, the [Deceiver] Prometheus! Deceiving the G.o.ds, the hero thief who led the humans — thou art the presence I felt at the pier that time!" Hearing the joyful laughter, G.o.dou noticed something. He hadn't told him the name [Secret Tome of Prometheus], but why was the youth able to call out its name? Could he really be a supernatural existence? "...Like Erica and the rest, are you a mage?" "No, I am completely different from them, but currently still incomplete. As long as I cannot recall my name, I will continue to be incomplete. However, it recently dawned upon me, perhaps staying in this state might not be too bad after all." While smiling wryly, the youth was caressing the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. "Hath someone used this stone tablet before? Within this thing, resides the stolen power of some deity." "Stolen?" "Yes, did I not say the power of [Theft]? This piece of stone possesseth the characteristic of stealing a G.o.d's authority, and then storing it within it... However, if the target was a powerful deity, most likely only a portion of power will be taken. This oughtst to come in handy, very interesting." Holding the stone tablet, the youth pointed at the hills a couple hundred meters away. In that direction were Erica and the pursuing [Goat]. "Then I shall vanquish the monster — boy, thou mayst accompany me!" It was already quite far away from the streets of Dorgali. In the heavy rain, Erica had arrived at the foot of the mountain where the green woods and the dried out white rocks lay. Nearby were several trees, but it was essentially a wide open stone quarry. Running here, Erica finally stopped. Looking at the direction of the streets, the [Goat] looked leisurely, but it was actually charging here at great speed. Then, what should she do next? Erica began to search for ideas. The best solution was probably to use an illusory spell to hide, directly tricking the eyes of the divine beast. But it would be best to stall for more time, if she were to disappear from its sights, it was likely the [Goat] would immediately turn back to destroy the town. "...About fifteen minutes, probably could stall for that duration?" Breathing irregularly from anxiety, Erica murmured to herself. Exhausting her mind and her body from the divine beast's pursuit, Erica made estimates based on her remaining battle ability. Hopefully, it would be best if people could finish evacuating during this bit of time. To stall for even longer, Erica — no, perhaps there was no one who could achieve that feat, it was up to the mercy of the heavens. Calmly counting her options, Erica looked up to the [Goat] with eyes of great battle spirit. In that instant, she found something unexpected. — Black lightning. Descending from the sky, black lightning struck the ma.s.sive body of the [Goat]. Roar! The air was filled by painful screams, how could the divine beast be moaning from being struck by its own weapon — lightning? At this time, Erica noticed that the black lightning descending upon the [Goat] was a different existence. Like a curse materialized, it was extremely similar in nature to Erica's own Golgotha spell words. Materializing a consciousness full of hate and regret, forming a black curse that brought disaster to its surroundings. Even without the disposition of a spirit vision user, Erica could easily recognize that the black lightning's curse was very intense. But where did such a curse come from? — Could the second deity have made its appearance? After being struck countless times by the black lightning, the [Goat] finally crashed down from the sky, making Erica's nerves tense. Immediately after leaving Dorgali's streets, the youth had pointed the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] at the sky. And then, from black clouds appeared several black streaks of lightning that struck the [Goat]. Every time it was. .h.i.t by the flash of lightning, the flying monster gave off cries of pain. Struck by lightning, the [Goat] was in great pain. Subsequently, bathed in uncountable lightning, the [Goat] fell to the ground. Suddenly falling into the empty rocky field outside the streets, its gigantic body was convulsing. G.o.dou's eyes widened at the sight of the unexpected downfall of the monster. "This is nothing, the monsters were never as strong as their appearance suggested. Of course, from the perspective of mortal humans, they are perhaps the greatest threat. However, this is just an unstable creation split from a deity's authority — Simply by applying a little divine power, they will fall like that." "T-Though I don't really understand, you're saying that it looks big, but it's actually quite weak?" "Yes, not a bad explanation, thou shouldst be praised... However, this victory was thanks to this piece of stone, carrying the curse of some earth G.o.d, it came in handy." Casually watching the [Goat] lying on the ground, the youth casually conversed with G.o.dou. Standing beside the bragging friend whose true qualities were gradually being revealed, G.o.dou felt increasingly puzzled. The description of splitting out from a G.o.d was exactly the same as Lucretia Zola's — 'the G.o.d of the golden sword was shattered into several gigantic monsters.' This youth clearly knew more about the situation than Erica, the one called a genius prodigy by Lucretia Zola. Who on earth was he? "G.o.dou, you are in cahoots with this guy after all!?" An elegant voice of accusation suddenly sounded out. The owner of the voice was Erica of course. She had most likely witnessed the fall of the [Goat] and had hurried over. Though wet from the rain and her body covered with mud, her splendor could not be suppressed. Or rather, it could be said that placed in such an extreme state, her beauty was even more emphasized. "It's not like that, we just met by chance in town... Didn't you also say we were likely to meet him?" G.o.dou answered with reservation. Of course, compared to Erica's harsh att.i.tude, G.o.dou's preference for the youth remained unchanged — but every time he thought of the youth's unknown origins, his doubts increased. Could it be... no, it must be like that. "...Hey, the one who defeated that divine beast was you, right?" Wary due to G.o.dou's words, Erica watched the youth with sinister eyes. She also noticed the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] held in the youth's hand. "Yes, thanks to this arcane stone of [Theft], the monster was defeated." "To have deciphered the power possessed by this grimoire — in other words, could you be a spirit vision user? This is impossible without the highest grade of spirit vision." "Hoho, askest not my ident.i.ty, my name is currently sealed." Faced with Erica's queries, the youth's unfazed att.i.tude remained unchanged. "By the way, there is something I must tell ye, make haste and depart — a second one will be here soon. A very ferocious and violent fellow, it would be best not to approach it." "A second one?" Hearing the warning, G.o.dou frowned. Squawk! The howl of a strange bird came forth. What was this sound? G.o.dou and Erica looked up in the air simultaneously. Who knows how many times they have experienced this sense of fear today? — This time it was a golden [Raptor]. Gliding on its gigantic wings in the vast overcast skies, a bird of prey possessing golden feathers. Come to think of it, Lucretia had also mentioned a hawk born from the sword G.o.d, however, this probably wasn't a hawk, G.o.dou felt it was more like an eagle. The best description was probably still a [Raptor]. Its wingspan from tip to tip, measured about fifty or sixty meters. Flapping its wings powerfully in the Dorgali skies, the giant bird of prey was circling ferociously, the name of raptor was rather fitting. "—Isn't that dangerous?" Every time the [Raptor] flapped its wings in the air, a vortex of wind was created as it turned. Strong wind became a cyclone, and then a gale, and further strengthened to become a tornado — in an extremely short period of time, the wind from the flapping of the wings has created a tornado that were now attacking the streets. All sorts of objects, large and small, were being blown high into the air. If such strong tornados were produced in the center of the streets, the ma.s.sive destruction caused would completely dwarf the [Goat]'s lightning. Just as G.o.dou felt despair, Erica questioned the youth. "...Did you call the bird too?" "Wrong, girl, I did not call them. It is in search of me, that they came." Showing a flawless smile, the youth answered. G.o.dou felt troubled by his casual demeanor even at such a time of crisis, but was unable to tear his gaze from the youth's handsome features. Unbelievably, he was being attracted and could not help listening to him. ...This was not right, it cannot continue. "I see... Then you — could you be..." "Hoho, sayest it not out loud. It is better that way. So, boy and little lady, ye make haste and leave. Though heartless to put it this way, the town is doomed, only destruction awaits." The youth pressed the tip of his index finger on his lips. As if hoping Erica would be quiet, but G.o.dou ignored it, and faced the handsome youth: "Wait a minute, it can't be confirmed that it will be destroyed, right?" "It is certain, the power stored in the stone of Prometheus has been exhausted just now. There is no other way to drive the monster away. If thou cannot understand that, then thou can only be described as foolish." "I understand, but I can't accept it!" Impulsively, G.o.dou yelled out. Just now when he chased after Erica, he had felt the same way. Even if it was impossibly difficult, he had to face things directly. Even now, G.o.dou did not want to run, or abandon the sight before him. Like a headstrong child, G.o.dou realized it. But thinking of the tragedy brought by the tornado, imagining Erica struggling against the monster alone, G.o.dou would feel greatly unsettled, so he had to indulge in his stubbornness — "If this were ancient times, I would bestow my protection upon thee, welcoming thee as my warrior, sending thee forth to the battlefield — " Faced with an ignorant child's willfulness, one could only appease him as much as possible. With an expression like a father, the youth nodded his head. "Now that it is said, boy, thou also complained the same way just now. Ignoring the wisdom of survival for the weak — appeasing the powerful and bowing down to the strong. Thou art truly hopeless." Hmph. The youth lightly sighed sadly. "Perhaps this will be the last time I a.s.sist thee with thy foolishness. Once those two beasts are vanquished, I can no longer play around leisurely. Truly, to lose my time of rest for this kind of brat, what a shame!" "...? What are you talking about?" Completely unable to understand the youth's words, G.o.dou questioned. What on earth was he saying? But he didn't answer, and only threw the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] over. G.o.dou frantically caught it. "Holdest it. Perhaps this piece of stone will be needed another time." "Eh?" "Boy, promisest me. When the time cometh, usest that for the world." Leaving behind those words, the youth suddenly ran. Towards the streets of Dorgali — the direction where the tornado was sp.a.w.ned by the circling [Raptor]. "This is likely the goodbye of a lifetime. Fare thee well!" G.o.dou wanted to run after him, but was instantly distanced. Like the wind. The youth was running with speed like the wind, and instantly disappeared. "That guy, he already said the enemy was dangerous, what could he be trying to do now?" Muttering to himself as he ran, G.o.dou suddenly found a gust of wind blowing around his surroundings. The gust of wind strengthened, and blew towards the Dorgali sky where the [Raptor] was flying. "G.o.dou, be careful! It's coming!" "Coming? What!?" Warned by Erica who had caught up, G.o.dou snarled angrily in response. "The second deity appearing in Cagliari! The wind G.o.d that defeated the monster, no, the war G.o.d possessing the incarnation of wind!" At this time, the other gust of wind had become a vortex, and the second tornado was formed. The strong wind blowing outside Dorgali's streets became a vortex. Before this sight, the [Raptor] stopped circling. Suddenly, the tornado in the streets vanished. The giant bird immediately charged at the remaining tornado. The tornado that could even blow the [Boar] into the air, capture it, and raise it to the sky. Flying towards the center, the [Raptor] remained in control. Not only was it not caught in the wind, it was flying in the reverse direction of the tornado's spin. Under some unknown principles, the [Raptor]'s high speed flying caused the tornado to gradually slow down. This was too ridiculous. G.o.dou felt fear as he stood lifeless, rooted to the ground. In an instant, the tornado vanished. However, appearing beside the [Raptor] was an object — the golden sword. Giant golden steel, a ma.s.sive blade just as large as the [Raptorj's wingspan, it was a double-bladed sword. This [Sword] floated in midair, facing off against the [Raptor], as if held in a stance by an invisible giant warrior, it was a most peculiar sight. "As expected... That deity can change his form according to the situation. The war G.o.d possessing numerous incarnations is...!" At some point in time, Erica had come to G.o.dou's side. The two of them no longer had the strength to run, and could only watch the battle between the [Raptor] and the [Sword]. With speed that was almost too fast to be seen, the [Raptor] flying in the air. Every time wind blew like a sonic wave, the ground was made a mess. It had not yet reached the speed of sound, but it was still very fast. Even so, the [Sword] still held the advantage. Faced with the super-fast opponent, it was leisurely dancing in the air with elegance, continually making slas.h.i.+ng attacks. The skillful swordsmans.h.i.+p landed blows upon the circling [Raptor]. With every successful slash, golden feathers danced in the air as fresh blood stained the ground red. The decisive moment of the battle finally arrived. The golden blade made a deep cut on the giant body of the [Raptor], chopping it into two. And then, the split body of the bird of prey turned into particles like sand and began to crumble. These particles were then absorbed by the blade of the [Sword]. However, this was not the end. The golden [Sword] then pierced the goat that had fallen on the ground. With the final blow — it should be described that way, the powerless giant beast lying on the ground had its neck pierced, it was an unhesitating finis.h.i.+ng blow. And so the [Goat]'s giant body also turned into particles of light, and were absorbed by the [Sword]. Somehow the rain had stopped, and the wind and thunder had vanished. As the sun's rays reached the ground, the golden [Sword] suddenly vanished without trace. Leaving behind Dorgali, ravaged by divine might, as well as the speechless G.o.dou and Erica who was watching the sky with a very complicated expression. References 1 . t seppuku: literally "stomach-cutting", a form of suicide performed through disembowelment, practiced by j.a.panese samurai as part of bus.h.i.+do to preserve honor. 2. t Word of Abandonment: quoted by Jesus from Psalm 22, it is the only saying that appears in more than one gospel (Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34). 3. t Psalm 22:2-3 4. t Psalm 22:14-16 5. t Psalm 22:19-21 6. t Psalm 22:22