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Volume 9: Return of the Goddess

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Disclaimer

This is a Baka-Tsuki Translation Project

Visit the group at Web.taisachnhanh.cloud

Under no circumstances would you be allowed to take this work for

commercial activities or for personal gain.

Baka-Tsuki does not and will not condone any activities of such,

including but not limited to rent, sell, print, auction.

All materials copyrights reserved by their respective authors and

the associated publishers. Please respect their rights. Works will

be deleted upon request by copyright holders.

Credits

Story: Taketsuki Jou

Illustrator: Sikorsky

Translator: zzhk

PDF Creator: Noire

Created On: 18/11/2012

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Volume 9: Return of the Goddess

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Chapter I

Wound of the Divine Lance

Part 1

The region of Brittany in France had a long history with England.

The original inhabitants of Britain, the Celts, had lost their homeland

to the Anglo-Saxon invasion. Around the fifth century, part of the

Celts living in Cornwall crossed the channel to settle in the

westernmost peninsula of France.

People on the continent called them "Britons" which is where the

name of the Brittany peninsula originated.

Furthermore, the most legitimate of divine ancestors also had her

stronghold secluded here.

The Witch Queen Guinevere.

Her appearance was like a classic western doll with exquisite facial

features of a beautiful ten-odd-year-old girl. Clad around her slender

body was a black dress reminiscent of funeral attire.

The current location was deep within a forest, protected by a magical

barrier.

Somewhere in there was a little lake, with lush woodland along the

water's edge, adding a sense of greenery.

Guinevere stood proudly on the lake shore, her sky-blue eyes of

sapphire gazing at the surface of the lake.

"Sir Knight... Guinevere believes without a doubt."

The figure of a knight in white armor could be seen on the surface,

but he was not underwater.

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Chapter 1: Wound of the Divine Lance

This was simply a two dimensional existence projected as an image

onto the lake surface which acted as a screen.

"Sure enough, our lord the 'King of the End' lies dormant in Japan —

the far east. This is the only remaining possibility."

(—Oh? And the basis for that is?)

The knight on the water surface replied using a "voice" that ordinary humans could not hear.

His name was Lancelot du Lac. Also known as the Knight of the Lake.

As the guardian of witches at the pinnacles of heaven and earth, he

was the war god protecting the divine ancestors.

"Intel left behind by my kin Asherah. That country once rounded up

the ancient tribe and concealed them. With the hero god Susanoo as

their leader, the special ability users who moved with him to the

Netherworld have been suppressing [Heretic Steel]."

Guinevere explained in detail.

"Even the Great Sage Equaling Heaven was put to use through the

Great Wizardry of the Dragon and Snake's Seal... I had become

suspicious ever since I learned of its existence. Unless something

important was being concealed, there was no need to undertake such

a monumental operation."

(Come to think of it, that was the place you visited earlier.)

Lancelot's "voice" replied softly.

He was not a typical [Heretic God]. As an underling whose mission

was guarding the Witch Queen, he was just a [God's Shadow]

maintained on earth.

"Yes. Due to the possibility of the sealed Great Sage Equaling Heaven

being the 'King of the End' — in order to ascertain if he was truly the

master we anticipate, I attempted some stratagems."

(However, that monkey king turns out to be a divinity quite different

from our master.)

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"Yes, it is regrettable that we know even less than those ancient

fellows in this regard. Which is why Guinevere stayed a while on that

island to investigate, based on clues the deceased Asherah obtained

from the Kuhoutsuka family."

The Kuhoutsuka was one of the Four Families leading the Japanese

wizardry world, inheriting and adhering to ancient precepts. They

were assigned to various direct-controlled shrines and monasteries in

Japan, taking on important duties like at the Saitenguu in Nikkou. [1]

"However, I discovered that out of all the shrines, there was one

where they were responsible for some unknown mission, so I decided

to pay a visit."

(Hmm, if it is unknown then one can conclude it is "something

deliberately concealed," right?)

"Precisely. Guinevere was lucky enough to succeed in spirit vision,

and that shrine turns out to be where the secrets of our dormant

master lay. If we can unravel this mystery, then the King who

manifests at the end of eras will descend once more...!"

Guinevere spoke as if in a trance.

It must have been a good many decades since she was last reborn?

All this time, she had been seeking the legendary hero king.

"I wonder if the key to the mystery lies in the lost memories of

Guinevere the goddess... However, divine ancestors lose their

previous life's memories after being reborn. Even Sir Knight who once

served master does not know his location — correction, does not wish

to know."

Hence, the key to unraveling the mystery was lost.

As Guinevere sighed, the white knight suddenly interrupted.

(Hoho, this Knight's only wish is to gallop across the fields,

brandishing the lance, treasuring the ladies, and protect this way of

life. Everything else is trivial and none of my concern. These are the

reasons why this Knight has become slow and cowardly.)

1. Saitenguu(西天宮): fictional shrine, name literally means "Western Heavenly Temple."

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Chapter 1: Wound of the Divine Lance

Without a shred of hesitation or doubt.

Galloping like the wind, swinging the sword like thunder. These were

the traits of the war god Lancelot.

(If the comrade-in-arms is slain on the battlefield, why not just mourn

his death with the raising of swords and the singing of dirges, is that

not enough?)

A soldier through and through, only living on the battlefield.

With this as his personal philosophy, the war god commented with

indifference.

(My apologies. If this Knight was not someone like this, the mystery

would have been cleared up sooner.)

"No, Sir Knight is the most important one apart from the strongest of

[Steel]. Do not be concerned. Rather than this, please direct your

attention to greater things."

Guinevere gazed sincerely at the divine knight reflected on the

surface of the water.

She put her arms together and pleaded in earnest, begging:

"I entrust you with everything, Sir Knight. Not as my shadow but as

my guardian deity, [Heretic Lancelot], I beseech you to manifest."

(—You realize this is a path of no return?)

"Now that the place where master sleeps has essentially been

identified, it would be wrong not to take a gamble. I cannot repeat

the mistake of losing to Alexandre Gascoigne six years ago."

Guinevere's previous stronghold was not located in this forest.

The Fairy Realm — was the forest of fairies that connected to the

place known as the Netherworld to humans or the Boundary of Life

and Immortality as called by gods.

The adventurous story of the Black Prince who discovered and

successfully invaded that holy sanctum —

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Stood as a painful memory of defeat to Guinevere.

"Due to falling into the Black Prince's trap, the energy of the land we

stored in the Magic Holy Grail... We lost the majority of it. The life

force of the great earth mother goddess that we spent all our efforts

gathering to offer to our master!"

Guinevere once offered to hand over the Magic Holy Grail to Alec.

However, she actually had no intention of following through. As the

true legitimate successor to the Holy Grail, she could simply summon

it back any time by thought even if she temporarily gave it away.

It was rather contemptible for Alec to see through that and attempt to

take it by force.

"If Sir Knight had been able to use your full power at that time, then

the Black Prince would have met his just deserts, and we would have

been able to protect the Grail properly."

(The spell that sustains this Knight as your guardian... If that were to

be lifted...)

It was unprecedented for gods to descend to the earth for the sake of

protecting a particular person.

What made this possible was thanks to the spell cast on Lancelot by a

certain goddess. This was Guinevere's previous incarnation — the

great mother earth goddess who assisted the King of the End in

ancient times and created the Holy Grail together.

However, there was an arbitrary restraint. Lancelot could only

manifest for short periods of time when the Divine Ancestor was in

crisis.

(If this Knight were to become a [Heretic God], acting freely and

going berserk, even forgetting the original mission of protection in the

frenzy of battle is very likely... Do you really wish to take such a

risk?)

"Yes, that island country's Kusanagi Godou-sama is a person so

outstanding that even Her Eminence Luo Hao holds him in high

regard. He has even roped in the great John Pluto Smith from across

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the Pacific Ocean. If we were to start an incident, there will definitely

be interference from them. It is unavoidable."

Six years ago, Guinevere had failed to understand the true nature of

Campiones.

Now she knew. Devil King Campiones were like glowing embers that

erupted into flame at the slightest touch. Even if operations were

undertaken in secret, Campiones would still be able to see through

them.

Devil Kings were like lights that attracted moths in the way they

discerned their mortal enemies the gods.

Completely outrageous. They were the illegitimate children of the fool,

killing and challenging gods that transcended humans.

One could only prepare against them by considering the possibility of

the improbable happening.

(In that case, girl, polish the divine blade left behind by the master,

and make it this Knight's divine artifact!)

"Sir Knight... That... To wake the Divine Sword of Salvation requires

obtaining steel that tears apart heaven and earth, causing the stars to

crash. You really want that?"

Guinevere suddenly raised her head in response to Lancelot's

suggestion.

(—Yes. Despite the lack of divine powers of prescience, this Knight

can clearly smell the battle approaching in the near future. For that,

this Knight requires a new weapon. Something like that is the bare

minimum!)

The helmet's visor obscured the white knight's face, but Guinevere did

not need to see it.

She was certain the war god Lancelot must be smiling, greatly

delighted with the premonition of battle.

"Yes... Yes! Guinevere will joyfully polish the sword for Sir Knight!

Spirits of the earth who accepted my blessing! Offer up the Witch

Queen's treasure!"

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As Guinevere waved her hand at the ground, the surface was split

open.

Two items broke through the earth to appear.

One was a massive urn made of gold, standing at the height of a

child's. The other was a very long double-edged sword, but extremely

worn and corroded, full of rust.

Though the two items came from the earth, neither of them were

soiled by dirt.

The large urn was the divine artifact known as the [Magic Holy Grail].

The other was the steel of the King of the End's sword. These can be

thought of as his relics and avatars. Ever since the hero disappeared

from the surface of the earth, his beloved sword also lost its luster

and was left behind in the ground in its decrepit state.

Part 2

Half a month had passed —

On the plains of Thrace extending from southwestern Bulgaria.

The suburbs of some city was visible from this place, a land full of

beautiful plains. Beneath the majestic Balkan mountain range, this

open country stretched far and wide, covered by plains and farmland.

Guinevere was using flight magic to descend upon this land. In the

middle of this vast plain, a hole had been dug in order to bury the

master's decrepit sword.

"O Steel of the King, I beseech you to awaken from this long

slumber!"

Guinevere chanted a song of spell words to carry out the current task.

The sword was buried in the earth... All this was done to wake up the

steel known as Excalibur in King Arthur's legends.

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"More dazzling than gold, more pristine than silver, that is what you

are. Born from the ashes of the dragon's skeleton is the dragon-

slaying steel. That is what you are!"

A long broad sword that once shone with brilliant white luster.

Its length approaching 100cm, this double-edged blade was actually

quite thick, with a structure similar to a woodcutter's chopper.

However, it was now worn out and corroded without any luster, only

covered by rust.

This divine sword and the earth shared deep roots, and was thus

buried in the depths of the land. Now, the essence of the earth was

being channeled into the blade for the sake of restoring its lost power.

"The stars, the sun and the moon shall lose their brightness before

you! All treasures shall lose their value before you! So please, I

beseech you to awaken! Please let the girl who is your maidservant

see the light once more!"

There was a reason for selecting this location to revive the divine

blade.

The awakened steel was going to be wielded by Heretic Lancelot.

Hence, choosing to awaken the sword on land with deep ties to him

facilitated the forging of bonds between souls.

"Divine Sword of Salvation, steel amongst steel, the Witch Queen

beseeches your divine self to revive!"

Finishing her chant, Guinevere raised her hand.

Lightning descended upon where the ancient sword was buried. In the

next instant, a short platinum-colored blade was suddenly thrust out.

The length of the cutting edge was about 50cm or so. This shrunken

size was the reborn form of the decrepit divine sword.

Guinevere breathed out in relief.

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"Please come and have a look, Sir Knight. Guinevere has finally

succeeded!"

"Succeeded... A word thou shouldst not use lightly. At the same time,

yonder sharp blade is not something one can ignore, having

witnessed that thing!"

The one who responded was an unexpected intruder.

Guinevere's face was full of shock as soon as she noticed the owner of

the voice.

"Your divine self has graced this land with your presence... Pray allow

Guinevere to offer her salutations."

Clutching the hem of her black dress like a noblewoman's curtsy, she

bowed her head.

Trying to suppress her panic as she greeted elegantly, Guinevere

appeared composed but was being eroded by anxiety from within.

She never expected this goddess to return here!

Despite her appearance of a young girl, the goddess' slender body

fully carried the solemn presence of a matriarch deity. As the great

mother of the earth, the queen of darkness, and the sky goddess of

wisdom, she was the tripartite goddess.

Her name was Athena.

The goddess from Greek mythology who had manifested as a [Heretic

God] a while ago.

The divinity of the ancient earth mother goddess had been retrieved

together with the mystic treasure, the Gorgoneion. Apparently, she

had battled Kusanagi Godou in Japan a few months earlier...

"For the past few days, one sensed an unusual spiritual presence

overflowing in this old land of Thrace."

Athena spoke softly like the whistling of the wind.

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With silver hair as if the moon had melted into it, she was in the form

of an adorable ten-odd-year-old beauty, wearing modest garments in

the style of ancient Greece.

Facing such a girl, it would take a fool to mistake her for a harmless

child.

Pulsating with power that could not be concealed, one would naturally

realize she was no ordinary person even if it was unclear whether she

was a god or not.

"One expressly came, suspicious of a premonition of calamity... One

never expected that man's maidservant to be polishing the steel of

taboo!"

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The flames of wrath flickered in the child-like eyes of the goddess.

"Knowest thy shame, kin of the past. Ever since the forgone age of

the myths, the descendants of we matriarchs have been irreconcilable

enemies with steel that slays dragons and snakes. In spite of that,

dost thou wish to sully thy hands with the filth of yonder blade. O far

thou hast fallen!"

"Pray heed my words, Goddess Athena, your divine self is severely

mistaken. Ever since the forgone age of the myths, we daughters of

the earth have always been bound to the fate of serving the heroes of

[Steel]. Though there are times when dragons and snakes turned

their fangs against them, those occasions only lasted as ephemeral

dreams."

Compared to a real goddess, the Witch Queen was just an

insignificant existence.

However, Guinevere held her head high and pleaded to Athena.

"We are the 'Hero's Attendants' who serve brave warriors. Even the

legends designated the goddess Athena as the beloved daughter of

Zeus, the chief deity of Greek mythology. If your divine self truly

believes this to be erroneous please do point out corrections."

"—O what sharp tongue thou hast."

Athena narrowed her eyes and stared down at Guinevere

unceremoniously.

"The maidservants of that man were all paragons of loyalty. No

matter what age we speak of, they are still worthy of respect!"

The divine ancestor's objections seemed to have gradually calmed the

goddess' anger.

Athena was also a goddess of war in Greek mythology. Did she not

have a personality that viewed with favor those who risked their lives

in battle?

Guinevere bowed her head and answered with reverence.

With a lofty stance, the goddess nodded at her childish posture.

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"Very well, witch. One shall not pursue this matter for now. However,

as mentioned just now, the blinding brilliance one witnessed... What

is that steel?"

Athena cast her gaze upon the white blade thrust out of the ground.

"As the goddess of wisdom, one recognizeth that steel. That man's

avatar the 'Divine Sword of Salvation,' the blade born from his

remains, is it not?"

Amazing — Guinevere was thoroughly impressed with Athena's eyes

of wisdom.

To discern the divine blade's origins from a single glance.

"Infused with new life... Though one doth not believe it can be used

very long, it will serve its purpose well enough. However, this relic

must be ye sole remaining trump card... If ye shall use it without

reservation..."

Guinevere saw Athena's eyes turn into those of a snake's.

"Discovered eh?"

Athena glared with evil eyes, as befitted her identity as the goddess

of snakes —

Guinevere's body remained completely motionless. With the fate of

life and death held firmly in the grasp of the supreme goddess, her

body was petrified with fear.

"Thou hast discovered that man? Found the tomb of the sleeping king

of salvation who manifesteth whenever the end draws near for the

earth? Where? Where doth that fellow lie dormant?"

"East... The far east, Japan..."

Guinevere whispered softly as she panted for air.

The goddess finally displayed true solemnity.

Sure enough, it was still impossible to resist. Guinevere felt absolute

terror from her innermost depths, and could only pray with all her

heart.

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Come save me, Sir Knight! Lancelot du Lac!

"Yonder island? One visited that place recently but did not sense that

fellow's presence at all... Perchance it was very skillfully concealed?"

The snake-eyed Athena's murmurs were heard.

Alas, it was a voice like the freezing wind. Simply hearing it was

enough to make the body tremble and lose all strength.

"Thou knowest, maidservant?"

Guinevere shuddered in fear.

She could feel the murderous intent seeping from Athena's solemn

voice.

"One's mortal rival, that god-slayer inhabits yonder island. That man

— will be the first to be targeted with the awakening of the hero

whose fate is to bury all devil kings. For the nearby Kusanagi Godou,

inevitable it must be. Nonetheless, it is one's final wish to serve

defeat to that brat..."

Athena's pubescent face had never shown this sort of tempting or

seductive aura.

As the goddess' flirtatious gaze focused on her, all Guinevere could

think was how to solve the current crisis!

"One hath been waiting for Kusanagi Godou to mature as a warrior.

Before that time arrives, it would be quite inappropriate to let that

man awaken. In that case, one shall bury thee here, plucking this

young sapling..."

The snake eyes were infused with a golden brilliance.

There was not an instant left to hesitate! So, make haste!

"Pray accept these apologies, goddess of snakes."

Boom! The sound of thunder and the apology descended from the

heavens at the same time.

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"That girl is this Knight's beloved child. Killing her is not permitted."

Dark clouds suddenly filled the sky, and a flash of white lightning

descended — no.

Rather, enveloped by white lightning and riding a white horse was the

knight in white armor, Lancelot du Lac! He proceeded to launch the

barbed lance in his hands.

This attack turned into lightning once again, approaching Athena.

"Guh...!? Lightning and horse — the most primitive [Steel]!?"

Athena instantly distanced herself from Guinevere, jumping

backwards.

The attack from the sky was evaded. However, in the instant before it

struck the ground, the lance took a right-angled turn and continued

forwards, flying towards the escaping Athena.

"Guh—!"

The lance of lightning embedded itself deeply into her left shoulder,

distorting the goddess' face with pain.

"As the goddess of wisdom, could your sacred eyes not discern this

Knight's true name... As a matter of courtesy, let this Knight

announce his name. Lancelot du Lac. The Knight of the Lake as known

by others."

Leading thunder and his white steed into battle, the war god

descended upon the earth as he declared.

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Part 3

"Sir Knight! Guinevere has always believed in Sir Knight!"

Lancelot simply nodded at her emotional cries of gratitude.

Turning his gaze towards Athena, he suddenly spoke.

"This Knight apologizes sincerely for the rude act of pointing a lance

at an unarmed opponent like you without even a sword. However, this

was done for the sake of protecting this Knight's beloved child. Pray

grant your forgiveness."

"Fu — Even if forgiveness is withheld, that lance still continueth to

attack."

Athena smiled despite her heavy injuries.

"One had almost forgotten, the mighty name of one called the [Steel]

of mist and thunder. Rumored to have become the retainer of that

man, it must be you!"

Athena was the goddess of wisdom and war, as well as the earth, the

darkness and the sky.

However, was it because of the goddess' heavily weighted warrior

aspect? The injured Athena displayed an exotic kind of beauty, full of

imposing dominance. Being bathed in fresh blood simply contributed

to her glamor like heavy makeup.

Lancelot felt like uttering the word "beautiful" in praise and

admiration.

"Worryest not. Even if challenged by the lance, one shall respond with

force. 'Twould be better to say, a little girl who knows not of

battlefield etiquette would be truly shameful. Ultimately, Athena is the

heavenly child of death and war!"

Athena suddenly grew in height, turning from a pubescent girl into a

young woman of seventeen or eighteen years of age. With maturity

came a sense of lively beauty and dynamic vigor. The beautiful girl's

appearance and powers evolved all at once.

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The shoulder wound healed itself, closing up and stopping the

bleeding.

Like a grim reaper's iconic weapon, a scythe with a long shaft

manifested in her right hand. Its blade was jet black. Embodying

darkness and the earth — this was the weapon of the queen ruler of

the subterranean underworld.

"Now then, comest with everything thou hast, Lancelot du Lac!"

"Much appreciated. This Knight expresses the greatest respect

towards your courage."

Lancelot respectfully replied atop his horse.

Even though she had grown taller, Athena was still at a height which

required looking up to him. She laughed fearlessly.

"...But war god, one knoweth. Surely thou art not complete right now,

yes?"

"Oh? Very clever of you."

The process of undertaking Excalibur's rebirth and cancelling the

guardian's spell started half a month ago.

However, Lancelot had yet to be revived in any complete sense of the

word.

"One's wisdom informeth, thou art neither a [Proper God] nor a

[Heretic God]. Staying long term in this intermediate state, thy body

hath yet to accustom itself to this world. In short, thou spendst the

majority of thy time with a dazed consciousness, is that not so?"

Lancelot slowly nodded in response to the goddess' question.

"Admittedly so. For the sake of injecting vigor into this Knight's

exhausted body, one must dive into thunderclouds every day to be

struck by lightning. Without this, the body's link to the earth feels like

it is separating. Thanks to you, this Knight no longer needs to wander

around aimlessly."

Even while confessing his weakness, the knight remained relaxed and

easygoing.

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"On the other hand, well, there is no cause for worry. This Knight has

proffered his utmost respect and thus will battle you to the bitter end,

concluding with nothing but death itself!"

Faced with a duel to the death, completely and utterly dauntless.

As if seeing off blades of grass floating away on water currents

without a care in the world.

"This Knight shall go full speed at maximum power to defeat Athena.

Please understand that battle is what this Knight has long sought over

thousands of days and nights, for this is Lancelot's style. Turning into

madly blowing wind, becoming dashing galloping lightning, crushing

enemies in an instant. Indeed, that is this Knight's way."

"Ha—! Well said. Should that be the case, one shall respond with

everything as well!"

Athena took a giant leap.

This was a humongous leap that no bipedal creature could have taken

naturally. In a single bound, she closed the 100m distance between

her and Lancelot mounted on his white horse. She flew as elegantly

as a white bird with feathered wings.

"O Earth, knowest one's determination! O Darkness, understandest

one's rising emotion! As one along the matriarch's lineage, Athena

hereby judgeth this follower of steel as the archenemy!"

The adorable voice was shouting spells words loudly.

Boom boom boom boom boom— With a terrifying sound that chilled

one to the bone, the ground began to rumble.

Earthquake. The skies also began to darken, or rather, darkness was

spreading out. Somehow, the broad plains of Thrace were suddenly

plunged from daylight into a shroud of darkness.

"This Knight's lord... This hand defiles your divine remains, pray grant your absolution."

Lancelot quietly muttered as he calmly rode his white steed upon the

shaking earth. Flying towards the sky, the divine horse and rider were

completely unfazed by threats on the level of earthquakes.

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"Tearing apart the ancient earth, penetrating the skies, Divine Sword

that brings stars crashing down, now is the time for your return, to

the hand of the Knight of the Lake, once again sounding the horns of

war!"

From atop his mount, Lancelot extended his hand towards the white

blade embedded in the shaking ground.

Guinevere had awakened the new Excalibur. Immediately, the 50cm

white blade left the ground's surface, flying towards Lancelot's hand!

"Mystic powers of the Oak, lend your strength to Sir Knight!"

Guinevere immediately used magic.

An oaken shaft suddenly manifested on the summoned white blade,

and proceeded to be held in Lancelot's right hand. The combination of

the blade and the long shaft was truly like a [Lance].

Divine Lance Excalibur was born.

"The earth collapseth, the ground spliteth open, behold the goddess'

violent song of destruction!"

As Athena began to chant, the ground beneath Lancelot and the

divine horse collapsed.

The earthquake attacking the vast plains became even more intense,

creating cracks in the ground. At the same time, black snakes flew

out from the raised ground, numbering in hundreds. Lancelot and his

beloved horse were entangled and swept down by the snakes baring

their fangs, trying to drag them into the earth.

"O Winds of mist, blow forth."

Upon his mount, Lancelot chanted.

Mist began to flow out from all around him. Furthermore, the knight

and the divine horse's material bodies lost color and form.

The mist burst forth continuously, becoming thicker and thicker. It

was like the dense fog that hangs over lakes, with a visibility of less

than 5m.

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"...Sir Knight, may fortune accompany your battle!"

Using flight magic, Guinevere fled for safety.

Seeing her off, Lancelot who had turned into mist, muttered:

"The Goddess Athena... a dangerous and formidable foe."

The authority of turning into mist was part of his immortality as

[Steel].

Mist cannot be struck. Mist cannot be cut. However, Athena was the

ruler of the underworld. She held the highest authority over

everything related to death and immortality. It was only natural for

her to be knowledgeable in the methods of sending immortal [Steel]

to its grave — But there was a catch.

"However, encountering this Knight is truly your misfortune. This

Knight is the galloping invincible divine sword that tramples

innumerable dragons and snakes. Even Athena, or rather, precisely

because you are Athena, defeat is inevitable."

He was currently displaying the martial arts of the sword which he

had attained to the highest perfection.

This was the shocking strike of the ultimate dragonslayer. To Athena,

this was a deadly weapon akin to a natural predator due to dragons

and snakes being the violent incarnations of the great mother earth

goddess.

Lancelot and the divine horse flew up in the form of mist,

materializing in midair.

They flew into the thundercloud he had descended from when first

summoned. Within the dark clouds where lightning crackled and

sparked, the knight spoke softly to his beloved horse.

"Respond to the wish of the beloved child, smash apart the great and

venerated foe, we shall take the form of lightning, and this Knight's

life is entrusted thus."

Lancelot readied the divine lance, pointing its blade forward.

The white divine horse galloped forth. Towards the ground, where

Athena was standing!

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They had taken the form of lightning when saving Guinevere just now.

But this time they were moving at lightning speed — god speed, and

this time with extreme destructive power as well.

This impact and destructive power was comparable to a massive

meteor descending from the heavens.

—Crash!

A white meteor crashing down with the speed of lightning.

It was a divine iron hammer that defies existence.

The white knight and divine horse descended from the sky, charging

at the earth like a god of destruction. Reaching the ground in an

instant, the divine lance was thrust out.

Athena brandished the jet-black scythe, intent on deflecting the blade

of the divine lance.

This was the divine skill of the goddess who discerned the lance tip

approaching with god speed.

Lance and scythe, the two weapons clashed together violently.

A storm was created at the moment of impact. In the eye of the

storm were Lancelot and Athena while everything else in their

surroundings were blown away by the cyclone formed by the impact.

The earth crumbled beneath Athena's feet.

Vegetation growing on the plains of Thrace, the land and rocks were

all dug up and blown away.

The surface of the ground was transformed into a depression like a

crater. The massive area dug out was roughly 2 or 3km in diameter.

The atmosphere rumbled.

At the bottom of this crater-like depression, the goddess and the war

god's clash intensified.

Athena absorbed the essence of the earth, infusing peerless might

into her slender girl-like arms. Darkness materialized into nine

demonic snakes which attempted to crush Lancelot in their jaws.

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—However, the final result was most unexpected.

In the end, Athena's scythe was sent flying by Lancelot's divine lance.

The demonic snakes of darkness were annihilated by the resulting

impact.

It was achieved by a meteor crash descending from the heavens that

collapsed the earth.

"Guh — gah, aaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!"

Finally skewered through the chest by the divine lance, Athena gave

off painful cries.

However, her snake-like eyes continued to stare at Lancelot.

Relentless, her desire for vengeance continued to burn like fire!

The white knight kicked at the belly of the divine horse, intending on

following through by severing the goddess completely. However, the

goddess, pierced by the lance, gathered together the divine power of

the great land, attempting to produce a force of repulsion to push

back Lancelot in his white meteor form.

In kendo terms, it would be described as a situation of tsuba-zeriai. [2]

Truly worthy of the name of Athena. Lancelot generously praised in

admiration as he called out to the girl he was protecting.

"Beloved child, now is the time to release the Holy Grail's mystical

powers!"

(What is the matter, Sir Knight!?)

Guinevere's thoughts arrived, flying from far away.

"The Holy Grail has the property of absorbing the life force of great

mother earth goddesses and storing it. Now is the perfect opportunity

to obtain the life force of the highest ranking earth mother goddess!

Do not miss it!"

2. Tsuba-zeriai: The situation where the distance between two opponents are at their closest, with both players holding their shinai tilted and the tsuba (sword guard) locked against each other, attacking each other's grip and destroying each other's posture.

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(—! Understood!)

No further instructions were necessary.

A golden urn, the Magic Holy Grail, suddenly appeared beside

Lancelot.

"!? Knight of the Lake, what art thou planning — oh?"

"Because simply defeating you will likely not be enough to overcome

your immortality. However, it would be an entirely different matter if

the Grail absorbs all your life force. Farewell, Heretic Athena. You

were the most suitable formidable foe that this Knight had long

awaited to battle."

From the wound where the divine lance Excalibur pierced —

The great earth mother goddess' life force of Athena was beginning to

spill out and flow into the Holy Grail!

"This seemeth to be some mysterious technique!"

Athena wrapped the Holy Grail in black mist coming from her hands.

Lancelot could tell that it was a corrosive gas. However, the Grail

continued to absorb Athena's life force. The golden vessel's lustrous

brilliance did not falter!

"This is the infinite power offered by this Knight's lord, the vessel

created by sacrificing the life force of the earth mother goddess equal

to your rank, we call it the Holy Grail."

Lancelot explained nonchalantly to the shocked Athena.

"Seeming to be a material like earth, but not in reality. Divine

wisdom, that which is symbolized by the truth of heaven and earth.

Even for you, Athena, it cannot be destroyed."

"Guh... That so? It is like the Gorgoneion that one sought, an

immortal indestructible vessel."

Her beautiful face in pallor, Athena murmured.

However, Lancelot was astounded by the goddess' pupils which had

yet to lose their luster.

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"One feeleth clearly. One's life force shaven off, devoured by yonder

vessel."

At some point in time, Lancelot and the divine horse's motion had

stopped. In the end, all effort had been spent in halting the meteor-

like charge.

"This be the vessel that compeleth the maidservant of the white

mother goddess to stoop so low? O Despair!"

By this point, the Holy Grail had already taken the lives of a good

many mother earth goddesses.

Even Athena had no way of escaping. Nevertheless, the goddess did

not lose the will to fight. She grabbed and forcefully pulled out the

lance piercing her chest. Blood gushed out in a torrent from the

piercing wound between her breasts.

Athena proceeded to display a smile of absolute despondency.

"However, one is the goddess of wisdom who claimeth all knowledge

as her possession. A little toy like this Holy Grail, one never expected

to discover it so soon had this body not experienced it firsthand. But

then again, this doth not fit one's style, so one shall undertake

revenge!"

Athena's blood-splattered hands slowly turned towards the Holy Grail.

Next, the great urn-like Grail began to fly towards Athena.

"Holy Grail that absorbeth life, one shall be keeping it!"

Athena reached out with her hands to touch the Grail, causing the

great urn of a child's height to vanish in an instant.

It was absorbed into the goddess' body.

"One shall take leave for now, Knight of the Lake. Thou shalt repay

the remainder at some other opportunity!"

Having devoured the Holy Grail, Athena began to sink into the earth.

Lancelot charged forth in pursuit and swung the lance.

However, it was too late. The lance tip only managed to pierce air.

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"What a mess... Who could expect things to have ended like this?"

"No, Sir Knight. Guinevere believes this result is absolutely not

unfavorable."

Just as Lancelot shook his head ruefully, Guinevere answered, having

returned by flight magic.

At the bottom of the crater-like depression marring the Thracian plain,

the knight and the girl faced each other.

"Athena seems to have devoured the Holy Grail in order to suppress

its effects. However, Guinevere does not believe this is enough to halt

the functioning of the life-absorbing Grail."

Guinevere spoke as the one with a mysterious bond with the Holy

Grail.

The divine artifact created by the matriarch deity of all the earth

goddesses through sacrificing her own immortality and divinity. As

long as that Grail remained active in the earth, it was forever

indestructible.

"Even if we just let it be, by this point it must have stored up a

substantial amount of magical energy. No matter what happens, from

now on there is a connection between Sir Knight's divine sword and

Athena's grail."

"Wielding the steel that splits apart the stars, is that so?"

Lancelot muttered. In the battle just now, he merely used it as a

bladed object.

The steel known as the legendary Excalibur had yet to exhibit its true

worth...

"But before that form can be attained, will she manage to remove the

Grail from her body?"

"Even if that happens, it may be just as well. Having swallowed the

Grail into her body to suppress it, Athena's return will not take more

than half a month's time"

"Then Athena will die, is that so? In that case, it might not be so bad."

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Chapter 1: Wound of the Divine Lance

Lancelot nodded.

A "way" always appeared in the end.

Whether abandoned somewhere or separated by any distance, as long

as the Grail existed on earth it would continue to absorb Athena's life.

The divine artifact created at the cost of immortal life —

This was its truly terrifying aspect. The wisdom and prayers of the

goddess of death, had yet to be carved into the deepest reaches of

the earth. On the other hand, the Grail's powers extended to the

furthest ends of the earth.

"In that case, girl, Athena is of no concern for now?"

"Yes. Guinevere will now go to Japan, the island where master sleeps.

Please grant your protection."

Lancelot silently grasped the reins of his beloved horse, flying towards

the sky which had recovered its brightness with the departure of

Athena. Still unaccustomed to the conditions of the earth, the full-

powered attack just now had already exhausted his divine power.

He must take a good rest amongst the thunderclouds once again.

Heretic Lancelot —

Despite his overwhelming power of destruction, still could not be

considered fully revived at this point.

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Chapter II

Devil King and School Festival

Part 1

The great god-slaying Devil King.

In addition to that identity, Kusanagi Godou was also a high school

student.

Thus it was only natural he would be participating in the school

festival held at Jounan Academy where he studied.

Godou's class had decided to put up posters in the classroom about

the local history of Bunkyo ward — a rather easy and uninteresting

activity.

Hence, Godou was originally supposed to be relatively free after

completing his assigned duties at the festival.

However, he never expected to be roped into helping friends out with

their "shop" project.

The day before, he spent the first day of the festival helping the shop

at the kitchen and procuring supplies. He was also supposed to be

helping out on the second day which was also the last.

However, the planners of the project, Nanami, Sorimachi and Takagi

(unofficially known as the Three Idiots) suddenly changed their minds

in regard to Godou who was helping out despite having no original

involvement with the "shop."

"Take the day off... That's what they said to me, but what was that

about?"

On the first day of the festival, Godou was on the road home from

school.

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Chapter 2: Devil King and School Festival

Making his way through the streets at night, Godou was deep in

thought.

It would be a shame to waste a rare opportunity of leisure.

"In that case, why not spend tomorrow experiencing the school

festival together with me, Godou-san?"

Mariya Yuri extended an invitation as she walked beside him on his

left.

A soothing smile appeared on her beautiful gentle face.

The way she carried herself was the embodiment of the perfect

Yamato Nadeshiko; with long lustrous hair tinted a shade of brown,

her striking beauty contrasted strongly against her conservative and

prudent personality.

"My duties at the tea ceremony club will be finished in the morning...

In that case, it will be fine. Hikari will be coming in the afternoon as

well. It will be more lively than going around alone—"

The young high class lady lowered her gaze slightly after mentioning

her little sister's name.

"I-I feel that it would be most delightful if Godou-san could

accompany us..."

Yuri added shyly. Her appearance and manner of speaking were most

adorable.

The sheltered young lady who was not only prim and proper, but also

solemn and serious, noble, and sometimes angry.

Godou found her frequent bouts of shyness extremely adorable.

"I see. Well then, let's go together tomorrow."

Thus he went with the flow and accepted immediately.

Somehow, Godou felt a kind of guilty feeling that "it is embarrassing

to be together with girls."

"In that case, Kusanagi Godou, will you allow my accompaniment as

well?"

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well?"

"Of course, I can't leave Liliana all alone."

Godou also readily accepted the request of the girl on his right.

Liliana Kranjcar. A fairy-like beauty of Eastern European descent. The

one who called herself his knight and grand chamberlain.

...Completely unaware he had just set himself up for the situation

commonly known as "a lady on each arm," Godou continued on his

way.

Thus began the second day of the school festival.

Meeting before his house at 10am sharp, Godou and Liliana set off for

school together.

Recently, Godou found himself frequently spending time with her. The

two of them would meet at his door without agreeing beforehand. It

always felt like things happened naturally as a result of mutual desire.

Furthermore, the two of them had recently gained a kind of silent

understanding requiring no words to communicate.

"In spite of everything, Japanese schools also have this kind of

planned activity."

Liliana murmured to herself as she passed through the new school

entrance.

This was a handcrafted entrance created specifically for the school

festival.

"Schools in Italy would hold celebrations during Natale[1] and Easter,

but never on this kind of scale. Though this kind of large scale activity

takes a lot of time and effort to organize, I think the enjoyment of

everyone is well worth it."

Liliana smiled. For someone who always insisted on being a "knight,"

this was a rare and gentle smile.

1. Natale: Italian for Christmas.

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"Could it be that Liliana enjoys these kinds of activities very much?"

"Yes. I love decorating the home to make it all pretty for family

parties and doing lots and lots of cooking. This festival is like

expanding that kind of gathering to include all the students, right? I

want to take part next year too."

The silver-haired knight spoke with a slight expression of delight.

It was unlike the occasional frantic expression she bore when faced

with unexpected failure that broke her out of her usual solemn and

imposing demeanor. Currently, Liliana's innocent expression made her

no different from an ordinary sixteen-year-old.

"That's right. It should be very fun, isn't this great?"

Nodding, Godou recalled the other knight.

"A school festival... A festa[2] which student volunteers organize for themselves, ah... Basically just having fun, that's the main idea,

right? It doesn't feel classy enough to welcome a guest of honor such

as Erica Blandelli."

That was what the red knight said a few days ago before she flew

over to Italy to handle some matters.

Smiling wryly, Godou tried to explain.

"I can't say your description is entirely wrong. However, it's a rare

occasion in a Japanese school so I think you should at least show up.

It should be okay for you to postpone going back a little, right?"

Well, a relative in Italy fell acutely ill... That was her fabricated excuse

for returning home.

Was there a serious situation over there? Godou refrained from

prying.

2. Festa: Italian for holiday, feast day, festival, etc.

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"You do have a point. Even if I have to suffer through a meaningless

engagement, or tolerate an uninteresting salon in a residence of

philistines, as long as adorable Godou is there, I feel like I can still

make memories to savor after the fact."

Erica smiled as she pressed her bosom against him.

Displaying her glamor through unintentional acts like this must be one

of her true qualities.

"However, I'm afraid I'll have to pass, because there is a meeting I

wish to finish as soon as possible. If I don't go to Italy now, I don't

know when will be the next time my wish could be fulfilled... So

Godou, please endure the void of my absence that no other girl can

fill."

"...That was what Erica had said."

"It cannot be helped. To Erica and me, that matter is an issue of life

and death."

Godou entered the rowdy and bustling school festival together with

Liliana as he recalled the red knight's parting scene.

"So Liliana knows something about why she has to return over

there?"

"Ah well, the fact is... Erica will explain in full detail once she returns successfully. Please forgive me for now is not the right time to let you

know."

Something like that could happen. Godou's eyes widened in surprise.

Though Erica and Liliana were rivals, their fates were frequently

bound together as one in various ways.

Godou decided not to pursue the matter any further, turning his gaze

towards the interior of the school.

The path from the entrance to the school building was transformed by

the festival from its usual appearance. Snack stalls were tightly lined

against the two sides of the road.

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Chapter 2: Devil King and School Festival

Beverage stalls sold chilled drinks. Food vendors sold takoyaki[3],

okonomiyaki[4], roasted squid, crepes, fried noodles, baby Castella

cakes[5], and various kinds of snacks. Furthermore, there were other

stalls offering fortune telling, portrait sketching, photography,

karaoke, flea markets etc.

People were really putting forth great effort.

Perhaps because Jounan Academy also included a university section,

the high school's festival was influenced to some extent.

Walking further for ten minutes or so, weaving through a corner of

the woods, they reached the destination.

The building known as the Japanese block.

"Last time we came here, Seishuuin Ena was also present. Will this

occasion be the same?"

"Who knows? I tried calling her before the festival but couldn't reach

her. Maybe she used up her batteries like always or went into the

deep mountains with no reception again..."

Godou answered as he recalled the Hime-Miko of the Sword.

Despite being a high school student, she was a mysterious

unpredictable traveler.

She could suddenly appear in unexpected places, but fail to show up

when wanted.

The two conversed as they walked into the traditional Japanese room

that was the size of twenty tatami mats.

This was the location for the "tea party" held by the tea ceremony

club. Godou and Liliana entered after paying the entrance fee.

The room was furnished with a stove for boiling water and a few tea

mats. The members of the tea ceremony club were serving customers

with tea and snacks.

3. Takoyaki: a ball-shaped Japanese snack made of batter and diced octopus.

4. Okonomiyaki: a Japanese savory fried pancake that contains a variety of ingredients.

5. Castella: a popular Japanese sponge cake.

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"Welcome to the two of you."

Yuri came over before Godou and Liliana who had sat down on the

mats.

"My shift will be over soon, so please wait a while."

"Ah, understood... By the way, Mariya Yuri, so this is the attire of the tea ceremony club?"

The silver-haired knight spoke as if greatly impressed.

The members of the all-girls tea ceremony club were busy stirring and

preparing powdered tea. This was a common club activity.

They were wearing kimonos rather than school uniforms as they sat

on the mats.

"Yes, as a member of the tea ceremony club, I can only speak to you

dressed like this."

Yuri replied slightly shyly.

She was wearing a beautiful kimono in the color of cherry blossoms.

Frankly speaking, the other members of the club seemed to be

unaccustomed to their attire and were quite stiff in their tea-pouring

motions.

On the other hand, Yuri stood out with her natural movements and

refined manners.

"I see, so it's like that... I was thinking why it was so strange."

Godou surveyed the place as the truth dawned upon him.

Offering only powdered tea and snacks, this place normally would not

be popular with boys.

Nevertheless, one third of the current customers were young men.

There were male students from Jounan Academy, male students

wearing uniforms from other schools, and even older regular

customers.

Naturally, their target could only be the girls dressed in kimonos.

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Chapter 2: Devil King and School Festival

It was an unpleasant thought...

Godou unwittingly reached this conclusion as he savored the taste of

the powdered tea Yuri brewed for him.

Within the tea ceremony club, Yuri was also rather striking in

appearance.

All else aside, she epitomized the term "beautiful young lady." It was apparent from a single glance that her graceful sitting form was in a

separate class apart from all the other girls.

Kusanagi Godou was currently being served by such a girl, and had

even brought along a silver-haired Caucasian girl.

"Is this the state otherwise known as overabundant self-

consciousness?"

"What's wrong, Godou-san? Does the tea not suit your tastes?"

"I, on the other hand, find the taste to be most exquisite... Or

perhaps you are worrying over something?"

"Ah no, nothing much, don't be too concerned."

Though he forced a smile before the two observant girls, Godou shook

his head.

Godou found his mind wandering into strange thoughts as a result of

being accompanied by overly attractive girls. One should handle

things with greater composure...

However, this thought was completely overturned within the span of a

mere hour.

Part 2

"It truly was a wrong decision."

Godou grumbled with heartfelt emotion.

"What should we do now? How could this draw so much attention, I

really don't get it... It's so vexing..."

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Yuri, who was dressed in a kimono, carried a conflicted expression.

"We three should find a place to figure out why others are so

interested in us. But even then, discussing furtively in secret is not an

option, we might as well act with resolution."

Liliana stated with an awe-inspiring tone.

—Just before the lunch break, they had met up with Yuri at the end of

her shift at the tea ceremony club. Yuri had appeared before Godou

and Liliana in the same kimono she had been wearing at the tea party

earlier.

"To create publicity for the tea ceremony club... The other members

decided together that I should go outside like this..."

Yuri bowed her head shyly as she explained.

Since the school festival was in full swing, it was not particularly

strange for people to be wearing exotic outfits. Nevertheless, Yuri in

her cherry blossom-colored kimono was far too striking in

appearance. Having Liliana by her side further exacerbated the

situation.

Passersby were subconsciously or even overtly staring at them as

they passed. Perhaps purely in terms of publicity, it was not a failure.

The trio went to watch drama and band performances, konto skits[6],

friendship matches held in the sports grounds by the athletic clubs.

Within the school building, there were also exhibitions, shops and

other performances, etc. Though there were still quite a few

attractions they wanted to visit, it was already time for lunch so they

decided to stop for a meal first.

And so, the trio went over to the food stalls.

Godou: "(noticing Yuri's gaze of curiosity) Mariya you're actually

interested in okonomiyaki? How unexpected."

Yuri: "Ah yes. Actually I have never eaten it before..."

6. Konto(コント): borrowed from the French word conte, a traditional Japanese style of comedic performance performed by telling stories.

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Chapter 2: Devil King and School Festival

Godou: "You can make it at home, right? I think for Mariya, it should

be really easy for you."

Yuri: "(steady smile) "My mother made it before in her own home,

and knows the method. As for eating this kind of food sold in festivals,

I have yet to —"

Godou: "Never!?"

Yuri: "You are correct. When we were young, our parents never

bought food at those kind of places because they were concerned with

hygiene. So all this time until now..."

Liliana: "(looking like a know-it-all) It is true that one cannot expect too much in terms of hygiene. On the other hand, because it is this

kind of place, that is why you can get get a delicious taste that cannot

be found elsewhere. If you do not give it a try, you will be missing out

on one of life's pleasures."

Godou: "That's true. I often eat this during festivals like temple fairs."

Liliana: "Back in Italy I would frequent sandwich and crepe stalls.

Eating on the roadside is nice sometimes."

Yuri: "Is that really true!? (frantic expression) T-Then in that case,

now that there is this rare opportunity, I shall, umm —"

Godou: "(staring at the school festival program schedule) In the

schoolyard there's Sanfu-sensei offering his hometown's

Hiroshimayaki[7], and Ganba-sensei from Osaka with his takoyaki

stall, wanna try them out?"

Yuri: "Yes, great!"

Yuri: "(violently knocked off balance by a passerby in the

schoolyard)...kyaah!?"

Godou: "(catches Yuri in his arms) Are you okay, Mariya?"

Yuri: "(smiling in Godou's embrace) Y-Yes, thank you very much."

Godou: "(gazing at Yuri's smiling face) Oh that's good."

7. Hiroshimayaki: Okonomiyaki (fried pancakes) cooked Hiroshima style.

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Liliana: "(began counting as the two of them remained tightly held

together. 10 seconds, 20 seconds passed. Then she coughed

deliberately) ...You two, do you not feel that your faces are a little too

close? Kusanagi Godou, even though I know that you have an

unusually deep relationship with Mariya Yuri, in such a situation could

you not handle things in a simpler manner —"

Godou: "(frantically separates from Yuri) —!"

Yuri: "(gazes wistfully at Godou)......"

Godou: "W-What nonsense are you saying, I only caught her because

I happened to be next to her, it's not like that."

Liliana: "Is that so...? My apologies. Regardless of your intentions, it is clear that your natural instinct is to eliminate distances between

you and other females..."

Godou: "As if that kind of instinct actually exists! By the way, if it was Liliana instead, I would have done the same."

Liliana: "Eh?!"

Godou: "It's obvious. If I saw a friend in danger, I will surely offer

help straight away."

Liliana: "(putting up a stiff front but appearing to be very happy)......"

Godou: "Well anyway, actually it's Liliana who always protects me

instead."

Liliana: "T-That's right. Hypothetically, if such an emergency occurs, I do not mind being saved by you."

Liliana: "(having bought Hiroshimayaki) With such large portions, let

the three of us share it together. Come try this, Mariya Yuri."

Yuri: "Thanks. (looking at the massive Hiroshimayaki) You are right, I

would not be able to finish this alone."

Godou: "Certainly, this is a portion size more fitting for a male."

(The trio began to use their chopsticks to eat sliced pieces of the

Hiroshimayaki.)

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Chapter 2: Devil King and School Festival

Godou: "(accidentally dropped his chopsticks on the ground) Ah,

damn it. I'll need a new pair."

Liliana: "No need for that. Just share mine."

Godou: "Uhh, sure — (realizing this is an indirect kiss) W-Wait, that's

not very appropriate."

Liliana: "D-Do not be concerned. Just like your relationship with

Mariya Yuri can be described as unusually deep, the same can be said

for our relationship as well..."

Godou: "※☆♂♀!?"

Yuri: "E-Excuse me! If that is the case, then you can share my

chopsticks too!"

Godou: "※☆♂♀○×口!?"

(All of a sudden, the trio was caught in a three-way dispute.)

Godou: "Fine, in that case, I will humbly accept your wishes with

thanks... (ended up alternating between using Liliana and Yuri's

chopsticks to eat the Hiroshimayaki)"

Liliana: "Exchanging chopsticks repeatedly is a bit troublesome. I-If

you do not mind then I shall feed you personally. (using chopsticks to

bring Hiroshimayaki to Godou's mouth) T-This might be better."

Yuri: "N-Now that you brought it up, that is right... (with shy

awkwardness) Uh, umm, if Godou-san wishes, I can also do the

same... P-Please open up and enjoy."

Godou: "I'm not a child in kindergarten! I can eat by myself!"

Suddenly, they noticed that a crowd had gathered around, staring at

them.

Due to it being the school festival, not only were there students from

the school but also those from other schools as well as all kinds of

residents from the neighborhood — male and female, old and young.

This was the nature of the crowd gathered here for a spectacle. They

were watching with shocked expressions that seemed to be saying

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"this is really novel" and were whispering to one another and secretly laughing to themselves.

"Isn't this getting a bit too crowded...?"

"I do not think that we were that loud, right..."

"Why are so many people gathered here to watch? We cannot be that

interesting to them, right?"

At some point in time, some of the surrounding people started tailing

Godou's group and maintaining a certain distance.

The most obvious group was all male and composed of youthful

schoolboys. Bearing rude and hostile glares with impatient

expressions... These were all signs that betrayed the negative

emotions swirling in each one's heart.

Godou pondered with uneasiness. How exactly was this commotion

caused? He'd better reflect well on it.

"For some reason we seem to be causing trouble for others. We

should pay more attention."

"But Kusanagi Godou, even though I believe your behavior just now

could do with a little improvement, you have done nothing wrong. So

what should we do now?"

"Liliana-san, perhaps it is something we failed to be aware of? ...Ah,

maybe eating like this on the roadside obstructs traffic, and causes

trouble for others?!"

"There are many others eating the same way like this. I really doubt

that possibility... Anyway, let's be more mindful, and go to the

cafeteria —"

The three of them finished buying food and made their way towards a

little unoccupied space beside a corner of the stalls.

Godou nodded in agreement with Yuri's suggestion and Liliana's

observations. At that very moment...

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"You people, what were you doing just now chattering away in some

kind of discussion? Are you trying to perform some kind of three-man

comedic routine?!"

Godou was shocked to hear this authoritative voice. He never

expected this girl to appear here.

Turning back to look, he found his childhood friend, Tokunaga Asuka,

standing before him with a furious expression.

"I wasn't even paying particular attention, but you three have been

displaying public affection... I turn my gaze for a moment and there

you go starting to become even more intimate. Well, if it was just

between an ordinary couple, it's not completely unforgivable. But

what on earth is this? A lady on each arm? Or simultaneous two-

timing? What is going on in your mind to flaunt this kind of ridiculous

relationship out in public!?"

Asuka expressed her displeasure, firing accusations like rapid fire.

She had a prim and proper face, and the twintails hairstyle she had

kept since long ago. Like the Kusanagi household, she was also a

resident of Nezu Sanchoume.

"Well, Godou, got any retorts to defend yourself? If there are any, be

out with them."

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"What retort... We weren't doing anything intimate. It's just normal

Chapter 2: Devil King and School Festival

contact between friends, that's all."

"Yes... My humble apologies, I cannot understand what you are trying

to say."

"It is true that there exists a strong bond between us that surpasses

normal 'friendship.' However, you are mistaken if you believe it is of

the sort of indecent relations you were insinuating."

Yuri was perplexed. Liliana spoke with agitation. Godou nodded in

complete agreement.

After all, Asuka had always been the type to get angry over reasons

that were far removed from the actual truth.

"Really! Embracing each other in public, having indirect kisses and

then being fed with 'yes, ah~' Well, since it's Godou, it's expected...

Let me ask then, what are these people like normally?"

Asuka turned to the people behind her.

Standing there were Yuri's classmates, the girls Sawa-san and

Miyama-san.

"There had been some restraint before, but recently it's always been

like this."

"Yes yes. Previously, it's even worse when Erica-san was around. In

fact, today's situation can be described as rather subdued instead...?"

The lenses of glasses-wearing Sawa-san flashed as she spoke. With

an immature face and undeveloped body like an elementary school

student, Miyama-san responded with a question.

Yuri nodded to greet her classmates who had suddenly appeared.

But just as Godou was wondering why these two girls were together

with Asuka...

"Sawa-san and Miyama-san both work together with me at the same

shop. Yeah, the family restaurant on the side of the main street. You

should know it, right? Anyway, they invited me to the school festival

today."

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Extremely observant, Asuka immediately explained for Godou. She

was a girl with a strong intuition and quick wits.

"Right, though Liliana-san had already been introduced to me at

Godou's house, who is the beautiful lady here? She looks very

graceful and lady-like."

"Ah, now that I think about it, you two have never met."

Seeing Asuka's slightly concerned gaze towards Yuri, Godou replied.

"Mariya, this fellow here is my long-time friend Tokunaga Asuka. We

live on the same commercial street. She goes to school at Tokyo

Metropolitan High which is closer to home. Also, this —"

"My name is Mariya Yuri. It is my pleasure to be acquainted with

Godou-san's close friends."

Yuri, who was dressed in a kimono, calmly bowed her head.

Though she was not particularly talkative, her greeting clearly

displayed her excellent upbringing.

"H-Hello, nice to meet you. The silver-haired foreigner, the super

perfect high class lady, as well as the rumored blonde girlfriend,

things are really developing towards complete despair for me... Truly

an extraordinary fellow. As expected, I can't let you out of my sight —

hmm, I cannot allow myself to become one of those old ladies crying

tears of sorrow over grandpa Ichirou..."

Backing down uncharacteristically, her mumbling speech after "nice to

meet you" was difficult to make out.

Being eloquent in virtually all situations was one of Asuka's qualities.

"I think we should leave first. Being the center of attention is

disruptive to the surrounding people, so let's go somewhere else."

Wary of people's gazes, Godou made a suggestion.

The interference of Asuka had only served to further garner the

attention of bystanders.

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Yuri and Liliana immediately nodded in agreement. Sawa-san and

Miyama-san were also planning to leave, having made their greeting.

— But then someone stopped them. Of course, the one calling out

was Asuka.

"W-Wait a minute. Are the three of you planning to continue your

flirting elsewhere!?"

"Like I said already, what flirting! You're always trying to find strange bones to pick."

"Still completely oblivious... You really are a great big idiot who

makes me want to despair!!"

Still as sharp-tongued as ever. And scolding all the time.

However, witnessing the familiar antics of the childhood friend gave

an oddly reassuring feeling.

Godou wryly went "So, see you later" and continued walking ahead.

"No other way, with agonizing contemplation I have made my

decision!"

Thus, Asuka declared out of the blue.

"It looks like I can't limit supervision to just the school festival. Sawa-san, Miyama-san. I am very sorry but there are things I must do.

Please allow me to remain behind and act independently — I have the

duty to keep this idiotic man under surveillance!"

Part 3

Thus, Tokunaga Asuka added herself to Godou's entourage and they

entered the school building together.

In contrast to Asuka's complete hostility towards Godou, Liliana and

Yuri were acting in a subdued manner.

"Listen to me, Mariya-san and Liliana-san."

Asuka chatted eloquently as they walked.

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"Even if this guy frequently speaks of 'common sense,' don't be taken

in by those lies. He is completely untrustworthy. I will help and

support you girls if you tell me you were victims of his deception. If

you run into any kind of trouble, feel free to discuss with me no

matter what."

She showed concern for them with great gentleness while disparaging

Godou at the same time.

"Is that so? Rather, I feel that Godou-san is a person who works hard

at acting sensibly."

Yuri objected with a conservative description.

"If Mariya-san really believes that, then I have nothing further to say.

Or perhaps you might recall all sorts of little things? Once anyone gets

into a certain level of familiarity with him, I'm sure they will notice

something is amiss."

"...Nothing like that. Right, Liliana-san?"

"...Ah. The nobility of Kusanagi Godou's character and behavior is fit

to be a knight's role model. I think you are slandering him most

inappropriately, Tokunaga Asuka."

Repeatedly questioned, Yuri and Liliana seemed to be responding

hesitantly for some reason. Not only did the two of them avoid

making eye contact with Asuka, the one posing the questions, but

also with Godou as well.

The atmosphere turned awkward and unpleasant all of a sudden.

"Ah, isn't this Uncle? Good morning to you."

A passing "maid" greeted him.

In actual fact, she was dressed in a sleeveless mandarin gown with a

frilled apron, a costume differing greatly from a traditional maid

outfit. Furthermore, she was wearing cat-eared decorations on her

head.

"G-Good morning to you too."

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It was clearly noon already. However, there existed many service

industries that used "Good morning" as a greeting regardless of the time of day.

The China-themed cat-eared maid was running around dressed like

that, carrying a stack of flyers, most likely trying to promote publicity.

"...Wait a minute, Godou, what was that about?"

Asuka immediately questioned him.

"That kind of cosplay girl not only knows you, but even calls you

'Uncle'!?"

"Hmm. It's a long story. There's a shop in the festival opened by

some acquaintances. I helped out for a bit, so that's why they call me

that."

"What kind of suspicious shop is that!? I must check it out."

"Eh? Now?"

Asuka's threats seemed to be giving Godou pause.

It's not a particularly strange shop anyway, so I might as well take

her there. But that also meant taking everyone else along.

"It is the shop opened with Lu Yinghua's support, right? I have no

objections."

"Ah, the one from Hong Kong... Right, I too, feel a little curious."

Since Liliana and Yuri supported the motion, Godou yielded and

nodded in agreement.

They arrived at a certain classroom on the third floor of the school

building.

Nanami, Sorimachi and Takagi, backed by Hong Kong's Lu family, had

opened the "China Cat-Eared Maid Cafe and Tea House" with business

in full swing.

"Business today is lively as ever."

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Upon witnessing the prosperity of the shop, Godou commented

casually.

A continuous stream of customers had formed a long line at the

entrance.

The place offered brewed Chinese tea as well as Chinese dimsum

delivered directly from the "main store" at Akihabara. The cosplay

team of China cat-eared maids was standing on duty to serve

customers. The mandarin gowns emphasized the curves on their

body, and the high-slit dresses were quite daring and sexy.

Authentic Chinese style. The reason for the long wait in line was

obvious.

The team of China cat-eared maids was composed of employees sent

from the Lu family's maid theme park in Hong Kong (to customers

they appeared to be girls studying at the school).

The Three Idiots' original proposal of "Cat-Eared School Swimsuit

Maid Cafe" was vehemently opposed by the girls, and was thus

altered to the current form.

"I knew it, wearing swimsuits when there's no pool would have been

quite strange..."

Godou concluded as he surveyed the surroundings.

However, the girls eventually relented on the cat-ear issue as a result

of the Three Idiots begging on their knees.

"Not some kind of suspicious shop, right?"

"It's really borderline... However, why are you the 'Uncle'?"

Asuka glared at Godou as they waited in line.

In truth, it was the maid team's boss, Lu Yinghua, who addressed

Godou as "Honored Uncle"... However, let's keep quiet about that.

Trying to explain the whole story would take forever.

"Ohoh, it's my dear friend!"

The one calling out was Nanami.

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He had just stepped out of the neighboring classroom they had

borrowed to use as the kitchen and backstage.

"Thanks to you, the shop's business is booming on its second day...

Though losing the "Cat-Eared School Swimsuit Maid" concept is

painful, we obtained the current overwhelming success instead. This

is all thanks to your introductions — don't be modest, Kusanagi."

"Hmm, well, it's good to be of help. But 'dear friend' is too much."

"Kukuku... What a modest fellow you are. However, thanks to this I

finally understand something. Kusanagi, your satisfaction as a riajuu[8]

only runs skin deep — you are actually tired of plain and ordinary life,

for you are a man who yearns for excitement and the extraordinary!"

Godou was shocked to hear his secret exposed.

The deadly battles of the Devil King Campione were obviously

unknown to Nanami.

"I... As a fellow comrade, I understand. Kusanagi, your eyes swirl

with dark burning flames only possessed by men who pursue the way

of the maid enthusiast."

"Ah, this? No, I don't have that kind of interest, you must be

mistaken."

"Hohoho, you have yet to realize it, that's all. I feel it is necessary to guide you along that path with something I have specially prepared.

Here, borrow this for now."

Nanami went back into the classroom and took out a paper bag.

He shoved the object over. Contained in the bag was a handheld

gaming device and a software package.

"But I don't usually play games."

Godou looked at the software. Its title was "English Proper Maid Story

— Maid Amy."

8. Riajuu: otaku term for people who appear to lead successful and fulfilling lives in the real world.

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Campione! (カンピオーネ！)

On the packaging was an illustration of a girl. Without particularly

ostentatious colors, the modest yet subtle design somehow felt rather

attractive.

"Try playing it when you have the time. You should be able to

experience the shocking revelation of a lifetime... Oh no, I was in the

middle of going out to buy something. Sorry I have to go. See you

later!"

"You sure make strange friends everywhere..."

Seeing Nanami leave noisily, Asuka was just about to have another

outburst.

"—Ah, Hikari. Yes, so you have already arrived at the school?"

Yuri had taken out her cellphone to answer.

She was giving directions to the China Cat-eared Maid Cafe.

"Will little Hikari get lost? Let me go pick her up."

"I believe she is very competent. Do not worry, we will wait for her

here while we line up for the shop."

Yuri offered her opinion with a gentle smile.

It was true. Godou recalled Hikari's personality and nodded in

agreement.

After ten minutes, the Mariya family's second daughter arrived.

"It's been a while, Onii-sama. Same for Liliana-neesama... Ah, I've

never seen you before. Hello, nice to meet you. I am Mariya Yuri's

sister, Mariya Hikari."

Hikari not only greeted the people she knew but also bowed her head

towards Asuka. Her attention to detail was well beyond typical sixth

graders. However, her next words belonged to no ordinary

elementary school student.

Witnessing Asuka's familiarity with Godou, Hikari suddenly

commented.

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"I can see that you are quite familiar with Onii-sama. In fact, once I'm a little older, I also want to stay by Onii-sama's side to receive his

love. When the time comes, I will be in your care? ...Ah, but who

knows, I might have more seniority by then!"

She was displaying an innocent yet "womanly" smile.

Hearing Hikari's statement, Asuka' face began to convulse.

"......I-Is that so? Just to make sure, in what year is Mariya-san's little sister currently studying?"

"Sixth grade. I will be entering middle school next year."

"Oh, I see... Wait a minute, Godou! Are you going to let this complete

mess develop further? You have truly overturned all of my

expectations!"

Godou answered Asuka's furious snarls with irritation.

"Don't go accepting strange ideas so easily. Do I really have to take

an elementary school student's words seriously? Use your brain a

little. Hikari only says that because she looks up to me, that's all."

"Yes. To me, Onii-sama is even more important than a real elder

brother."

Giggling cleverly, Hikari responded.

Even though she sounded like she was hiding some sort of subtle hint,

Godou was not concerned. She was just an elementary school child. It

would be ridiculous to take her words seriously.

Now that he thought about it, the other girls had also been more or

less alarmed by Hikari previously.

"Liliana also makes strange statements all the time. If you insist on

interpreting things that way, Asuka, you're going to make Hikari and

her sister Mariya feel uncomfortable."

"Yes... Kusanagi Godou is correct."

"Right. After all, Hikari is still a child, yes..."

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Liliana spoke knowingly as Yuri nodded in agreement with a conflicted

expression.

As the subject of discussion, Hikari smiled sweetly in response to the

comments of the older girls.

"Yes, I am still a child, so the future is far away. I look forward to

receiving everyone's care in the future."

Then Hikari leaned tightly against Godou. This was a rare display of

open affection that felt a little different from a younger sister's.

Godou stroked her head a few times. Hikari smiled in return.

"...In three years, no, two years, that kind of future will be here."

"...Actually, I would not be surprised if that stage arrives in two

months."

"...If the child has already decided herself then there is no helping

it..."

Asuka, Liliana and Yuri murmured softly amongst themselves.

What do they mean? Godou was perplexed. Furthermore, for some

reason the situation felt like an alliance was being formed between

the three girls —

Not too long after that, the group was finally able to enter the shop.

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"China Cat-eared Maid Cafe and Tea House."

Despite the small budget, the interior of the classroom was well-

decorated in Chinese style.

Godou and his group were seated next to the window. They ordered

Pu-erh tea[9] and several snacks according to their numbers.

"Well then, Uncle, your order will be here shortly."

The China cat-eared maid spoke cheerfully and returned to the

kitchen.

Of course, she was greeting Godou who had been helping out at the

shop yesterday.

"On further thought, this shop is really suspicious after all. The

waitresses don't really seem like students and they look especially

well-trained. Furthermore, that maid's Japanese is a little awkward,

could she be Chinese or Korean?"

Asuka calmly pointed out.

Since she had been working at a family restaurant, she was probably

familiar with the skills of the maid team.

"Godou sure knows some really weird people. What kind of

connections caused you to help out at this shop?"

"Well, all kinds. It's purely by chance that I became friends with a

certain someone who is bad news."

"Ah, Onii-sama also helps out at this shop? I didn't know this shop

happens to have connections with Hong Kong's Lu family."

Hikari glanced repeatedly at the striking and elegant figures of the

China cat-eared maids with great wonderment.

"Could it be possible that Onii-sama has this kind of preference?

Cosplay or the like!?"

9. Pu-erh tea(普洱茶): a variety of post-fermented tea produced in Yunnan province of China.

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"No, not at all. I've never even paid attention to it."

"Really? If you don't mind being honest, I can do it too. I can wear

those outfits for Onii-sama to see!"

Hikari's words nearly made Godou spit out his Pu-erh tea.

"I-I really appreciate your offer, but it's not going to happen."

"What's going to happen? Then it's really true after all?"

Asuka interrupted with skepticism.

Treating me like some sort of eccentric again — Godou decided to just

ignore her.

"Hmm, Tokunaga Asuka, can you tell me the reason you think that?"

Suddenly, Liliana began to pursue the matter.

"It had already occurred to me before, that you seem very familiar

with Kusanagi Godou's past. What is the basis for your judgment? For

example, did he ever display an obsession over any type of clothing

or the like?"

"Certainly, I have also had my suspicions."

Even Yuri was nodding in agreement.

"Like Liliana-san said, Tokunaga-san is someone who can offer special

insight into Godou-san's personality. If you do not mind, pray

enlighten me."

Yuri and Liliana were consulting Asuka together!

Why? Godou was shocked. In this gathering here, why was there a

certain sense of consensus appearing in the eyes of the childhood

friend, the Hime-Miko and the knight —?

"Eh, well it's not really definite proof..."

Suddenly faced with these requests, Asuka seemed to be in doubt.

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"But I get the sense that he keeps changing his mind rapidly for

things he claims to have no interest. Whenever he says 'isn't this

fine?' I keep wondering if he actually thought before speaking?"

"...No, the ability to make bold decisions is one of Kusanagi Godou's

strong points after all."

"...I agree. Godou-san's reaction speed towards changing

circumstances is exemplary."

Asuka's words seemed to have struck a deep chord with Liliana, and

Yuri murmured in agreement.

Could this encounter turn out to be highly unfavorable for me? Godou

was beginning to feel a vague sense of unease.

Part 4

The second day of the school festival had finally reached dusk.

Since dusk had arrived, it was time for the usual campfire and

evening festivities. The packed and eventful schedule included folk

dancing and the announcement of the Miss High School winner.

...As a side note, this year's winner of the Miss High School title was

Erica Blandelli.

Hearing the announcement, Godou was completely bewildered.

Obviously, she was not going to appear here, having excluded herself

from participating in the school festival. Even when asked earlier, she

had replied:

"If you really miss my beauty then be my guest and use photos or

whatever... But I'm not going to do anything troublesome. I

participated in a similar event once in Italy and found it completely

tiresome."

That was how she had declined.

Along with the participants gathered on the stage, the screen was

playing a video of Erica that was clearly filmed in secret. (As another

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side note, Erica had been recommended by an acquaintance to enter

a regional preliminary round of the Miss Italy competition. Though she

qualified straight away, she grew impatient and left halfway through

the proceedings.)

In spite of all that, she still won by a landslide.

On the other hand, this could also be attributed to her rivals Yuri and

Liliana's resolute refusal to participate. Still, it was rather telling that

a voyeuristic video was able to overwhelm all the other competition.

Godou marveled in amazement at Erica's ridiculous exploits as he

climbed the stairs, finally reaching a door at the top.

"That guy must be up here, right?"

Beyond the door was the roof which had been shaded orange by the

setting sun.

A cursory glance found no one there. It was still early so the late

night festivities had yet to begin. Otherwise, the movement of lively

fire light would have been visible from participants surrounding the

campfire below.

Godou had received a text message earlier that told him to wait on

the roof.

"My apologies for calling you here, Honored Uncle."

The greeting arrived with the wind.

What an incredible voice. It almost sounded as if the autumn breeze

was whispering in his ear.

This was a technique of qigong masters. By infusing "qi" into their voice, they could converse with cult members across vast distances.

Godou walked to the center of the roof and looked around... And

finally found him.

Standing in a corner was the young master of Hong Kong's Lu family,

Lu Yinghua.

"Sorry to have you wait, Yinghua."

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"No, not at all. Compared to Honored Uncle giving up time that could

be spent with the various Nee-san, this is nothing."

Lu Yinghua smiled with candor. Despite his handsome youthful

appearance, it was a rather acute smile.

Inserting biting commentary into a simple explanation. Pointlessly

provocative. Eccentric and hard to get along with.

However, from Godou's point of view, he was the arrogant and

reassuring "nephew."

It reminded Godou of the personality of the genius pitcher he had

worked with back in his baseball days.

"By the way, Honored Uncle, what do you have there?"

"Hmm? Ah, Nanami lent this to me just now... No, actually he just

shoved it over."

Lu Yinghua had noticed Godou's paper bag which contained the game

"English Proper Maid Story — Maid Amy."

Opening the paper bag to have a look, the young martial arts master

stared with dumbfounded amazement.

"...I've actually heard quite a few rumors about this game."

"Eh? Is it actually quite famous?"

"Yes. Ever since the computer version was first sold at a doujinshi fair several years ago, its development has expanded over time to

become a commercial success known all over the world. It has also

become a consumer game. Last year it was even animated, with DVD

and BD sales reaching ten thousand."

"...Looks like Yinghua is quite knowledgeable about it."

"Well, it is related to our business after all. I only started researching it recently."

What would his master say if she knew her disciple had begun honing

expertise in this area?

Godou was reminded of his beautiful sworn elder sister.

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"Anyway, I plan on checking out the game's content to catch up with

Honored Uncle."

"But I haven't even decided when I'm going to play this. How about

we start it together?"

"Good idea. In that case, Amakasu-san appears to be an expert in

this area, should we call him as well? As for the location, let me make

the preparations..."

As the casual male talk(?) reached a conclusion, Lu Yinghua brought

up the next issue with unhurried words.

"Actually, the purpose of my visit is to inform Honored Uncle about

the Divine Ancestors."

"...Ahah. The one called Asherah, right?"

The witch who was mind-controlling the young master of the

Kuhoutsuka family. Godou had completely forgotten about her.

"I remember it was Liliana who told me. A bunch of eternally young

witches who were transformed from goddesses of ancient times, and

much stronger than ordinary magi?"

"Yes, though they cannot compare to the various Campiones."

Godou felt puzzled, was it because they were fallen goddesses?

However, how did it come about in the first place?

"Back then, I spent a fair amount of time with Asherah. She

frequently contacted someone and I managed to overhear the name.

Another Divine Ancestor called Guinevere. She is the mastermind who

provoked the fight between Master and the Great Sage Equaling

Heaven."

"So that was what happened!"

"It should be unlikely for this woman to embroil Honored Uncle in her

schemes immediately, but I just thought it'd be best to report to

Honored Uncle first."

"Thanks. Sorry for troubling you with all sorts of things."

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"No, don't mind it. When I get abused — no, scolded... Or rather,

when Master gives me special training, I hope I can depend on

Honored Uncle a bit. It's good to know I have someone to rely on in

case of emergencies. So anyway, you are really welcome!"

Lu Yinghua spoke in a rare moment of passion.

This guy admires and worships me for very practical reasons. Godou

understood very well. It was only natural given the existence of a

master like that. Oh well, I'll try to be as good an uncle as possible.

Just as the thought crossed Godou's mind, Lu Yinghua suddenly

perked up his ears.

"Ah, I can hear Liliana-neesan and Yuri-neesan's footsteps coming

from downstairs. Aren't they looking for Honored Uncle?"

"That's some superhuman hearing... Even though Seishuuin can do

something similar."

"Compared to that Nee-san, my eyes and ears are still quite sharp."

Hearing footsteps through thick layers of steel-reinforced concrete,

and even identifying their owner from the sound —

Lu Yinghua, the one who had showed off such ridiculous hearing,

began to laugh.

"By the way, I am stronger compared to Erica-neesan while my body

is lighter compared to Liliana-neesan's. On the other hand, I cannot

cast spells, so that means we're basically equals... Right."

From the tone of Lu Yinghua's voice, it was clear he did not actually

believe in his assessment of "equals." Seeing those eyes of disdain made Godou feel like objecting. What was this feeling that compelled

him to defend his female companions?

"But last time, didn't you end with a draw against Liliana?"

"Under those conditions, it was impossible to tell who would be the

victor between Master and Honored Uncle. I couldn't commit the folly

of unintentionally killing a Campione's close associate and incurring a

king's wrath... Well, I did show my true skills back then and didn't

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make any mistakes, but I refrained from using any truly underhanded

tricks of murder."

Lu Yinghua had not reached Erica's level of subconsciously expressed

arrogance. On the other hand, his personality did have calculating and

tolerant facets. Godou found him to be an interesting fellow.

"However, in order to face an unfair technique like Ena-neesan's

divine possession, it's necessary to completely master a life-risking

trump card. After all, Erica-neesan, she..."

"What about Erica?"

"That Nee-san is a true female fox and a real warrior. After all, she

must have grasped the subtle truth and is now training accordingly.

She's not a swan that shows off its appearance while struggling with

paddling feet underwater!"

Ultimately, was Lu Yinghua a genius who could analyze everyone to

their core? Rivals who were constantly evaluating, contending, and

sparring to gauge one another's ability. Realizing he was surrounded

by an amazing group of people, Godou was deeply impressed.

Part 5

While Godou and the rest were enjoying the school festival —

Erica Blandelli was at the ancient city of Siena in the northern Italian

region of Tuscany.

It was a little city with a long history of prosperity dating back to the

Roman Empire. The remnants of medieval streets and historical areas

were famous World Heritage Sites.

Piazza del Campo was probably the most highly renowned of these

sites.

The plaza was built on a gentle slope and shaped somewhat like a

bowl. It was surrounded by structures such as medieval palaces,

water fountains, and bell towers.

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The world's most beautiful public square — indeed, that was what it

was called.

Erica's destination was a place near Piazza del Campo.

A Sicilian gelato[10] store which must have been quite popular with the

locals.

However, no matter how delicious gelato tasted, it was merely ice

cream. Going home for this purpose would have been ridiculous.

Of course, Erica was meeting a certain character well-known for

troublesome antics and often criticized as a fool.

"Vanilla, strawberry, pistachio, almond... I'm having such a tough

time choosing the flavor. But if I eat all four, surely it's too much."

"Having three in November is also too much."

"I've always had a habit of visiting this street for gelato whenever

winter approaches. It's like eating hot food in summer is good for the

body, you should eat cold stuff in chilly weather to get used to the

cold. If you do that, you'll avoid catching colds for the winter."

"In short, you have further plans to visit other places to feast on

frozen desserts, is that correct?"

"Yup. Today I'll be going to as many shops as I can, so I'm holding

back a bit at the first one."

"...Did you know, Salvatore Doni?"

"Know what, my dear and trusted friend, Andrea-kun?"

"In certain countries, it is commonly believed that the ignorant do not

catch colds. Perhaps that is the reason why you were safe...! Have

you any idea how much your sudden notion to return home has

disrupted the schedule!?"

10. Gelato: Italian ice cream made using milk, cream, sugars and flavorings such as fresh fruit or nut purees.

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"Andrea, you're usually such a wise man! But 'Fools don't catch colds'

has no basis, you know. For you to believe such a superstition, it

looks like you're quite ignorant in certain areas!"

"Stop spouting nonsense, you idiot!"

It was a conversation that would give anyone listening a headache.

Indeed, Salvatore Doni the "King of Swords" was a knight from Siena.

Erica had hurried back to Italy as soon as she received news that he

was returning to his home town under the supervision of his butler,

Andrea Rivera.

...A short while later, a blonde young man stepped out of the store

carrying a triple portion of gelato accompanied by a haggard glasses-

wearing young man.

"Eh, it's been a while, Erica Blandelli."

"Oh, what a rare visitor. When did you return from Japan?"

The two greeted Erica as soon as they noticed her.

During their first meeting, Doni had completely failed to register

Erica's name in his mind, but now he was able to greet her normally.

This was not because he memorized her name after so many

encounters...

It was purely due to Kusanagi Godou's existence that finally made

him recall Erica's name.

Doni's inability to remember names was not due to poor memory but

a lack of interest.

Anyone not an enemy was like a roadside pebble to him. That must

be the way he thinks.

"We have not met since Sardinia, Sir Salvatore. Thank you for taking

care of me back then, Sir Andrea."

The king whose foolish appearance disguised his horrifying

unorthodox talent. And the butler who assisted him.

Erica displayed a gorgeous smile.

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"If you have any matters to discuss, please be my guest and talk to

Andrea? I'm going to eat my gelato..."

"No, that is not the case this time. I have a request to make of Sir

Salvatore."

Erica swiftly addressed the [King] who instinctively avoided

cumbersome responsibilities.

"Me?"

"Yes. Remember the first time I met Sir Salvatore, when you dueled

with Dame Saint Raffaello?"

"Hmm, this is really bothersome. But now that I recall, you were

there too."

"At that time, Sir Salvatore had inherited the 'Book in Praise of

David's Great Works' from Saint Raffaello. I would like to request

permission for myself, as well as Dame Liliana who is not currently

present, to read that book once more."

"Master's book? Book eh...?"

"Sir Salvatore, I once accepted Saint Raffaello's request to safeguard

the San Gimignano grimoire."

Aware of his master's vague memories, Andrea Rivera stepped in to

provide assistance.

Even when addressing his longtime friend, he was a righteous and

honorable man who always kept personal and business matters

separate. Certainly, the "book" must be under his safekeeping.

Erica nodded.

Exactly as expected, which was why she deliberately approached

them when they were together!

"Dame Erica, that book has been expressly 'concealed' under Saint

Rafaello's orders. Even as the curator I have never read it. Permission

is only granted to those who are about to rise to the rank of paladino.

In regard to your request, I regret..."

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"That's what I thought."

As befitted the fair and righteous "King's Butler."

Erica greatly admired his strict adherence to noble principles, not

even excepting himself, but she continued to plead.

"However, please be informed that granting permission to me would

be favorable to Sir Salvatore's interests."

"My interests? What is going on?"

"Yes. If I were to master the secret arts of battle magic that can rip

apart fallen angels and pagan gods, then that will contribute to

Kusanagi Godou's combat potential... Rather, perhaps I can become

something like a shield that can bolster his development."

"...Really? I see, I see. That's the implication."

Licking his gelato, Doni's expression changed.

A certain sense of acuity had subtly crept into the handsome face that

had been like a carefree little baby's. Anyone unfamiliar with his

personality would likely have missed it.

"A more hot-blooded fellow would have gone 'That's about it?' 'Sure,

let's go again?' when things ended. But to reject outright, Godou sure

is a tough customer."

This acuity was not exactly fighting spirit or murderous intent.

A belief that the so-called "friend" and rival will inevitably be

encountered again on the battlefield. This much was certain.

"Having a decisive duel with that fellow requires an appropriate time.

He needs to have the proper motivation, otherwise he'd try to run

away and end things meaninglessly. But while I'm waiting, I can't

have Godou getting killed so easily."

Doni looked upon Erica with an expression of utmost joy as if he was

Cupid having spotted true love.

"What a fellow who always worries others. Even though he says he

hates fighting, he keeps charging into the battlefield. Is this what

Japanese culture call tsundere?"

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The "King of Swords" chatted away, discussing the good rival he

acknowledged.

His assessment was surprisingly accurate. Perhaps Salvatore Doni

was a kindred soul who could understand Kusanagi Godou very well.

"Very well then. I have great hopes for him. Until the day we meet

each other again on the battlefield, having him work hard on all sorts

of things is not a bad idea."

Rivera frowned in response to this statement of approval. But a

[King]'s decision could not be reversed.

Erica reverently bowed her head in gratitude towards Salvatore Doni.

Part 6

On the coast of Kisarazu City in the Chiba Prefecture.

Nearby was the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway — a toll route from the

Kanagawa Prefecture to Kisarazu across Tokyo Bay.

This place was also next to an industrial zone, and quite close to the

Kisarazu city streets, as well as the prefectural administration at

Chiba City.

However, this beach was extremely quiet. In warmer times there

would be waders and summer swimmers. But it was currently

November, and the marine breeze was mixed with rather chilly air. It

was not the season for outdoor activities.

"...How relaxing, Amakasu-san."

"...Yes, it is very relaxing. Ena-san."

Ena mumbled as she nibbled at her cup noodles while Amakasu

concurred, munching away at his bun filled with red bean paste.

The food had been bought from a rustic fishing village next to the

beach.

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"Will someone suspicious really come? We've already staked out this

place for three days already. Not a single soul appeared... And this is

the first time for me to find out this place is also managed by the

Committee. But isn't there nothing here?"

Ena grumbled as she looked down at the place.

The beach was opposite the windbreak plantation. Directly before

their eyes was a red torii. Other than the lone torii standing in the

empty seaside, there was nothing else. Not even a shrine or a little

hut.

"You're very right. I'm surprised too."

The indifferent and insincere History Compilation Committee member

agreed.

Both him and his boss belonged to the Tokyo branch of the

Committee. However, its territory was actually more vast than the

name implied, for it extended all the way from Tokyo to Chiba,

Saitama, Kanagawa, Ibaraki, Gunma and Toshigi...

In actual fact, it would be more accurate to call it the domain of the

Kanto region supervisor.

"By the way, Ena-san, aren't you going to the school festival being

held at Kusanagi-san's place?"

"Eh? What is that?"

"At the school where he studies. I remember the festival was

scheduled to start yesterday. But because I had to be careful to avoid

mentioning anything to do with 'going over there,' I kept silent about

it."

"Hmm... Now that I think about it, that kind of activity should be

occurring this time of the year."

As for Ena's habit of not attending school seriously, it began all the

way back in middle school, no, elementary school.

Although members of the Seishuuin family were obliged to go into the

mountains for serious Hime-Miko training, it resulted in Ena being

unfamiliar with basic facts of school life.

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"Damn it~ It's not that often for festival events to be held, if only I

could have a chance to have fun with His Majesty... That's so bad of

you, Amakasu-san, why didn't you tell me sooner!"

"Wait a minute, it wasn't just me. Kaoru-san also knew and withheld

the information."

The History Compilation Committee Tokyo Branch Chief was the

Hime-Miko, Sayanomiya Kaoru.

Without any hesitation, Amakasu outed her as an accomplice.

"On the other hand, even though he looks like he can't be bothered to

deal with women, he is a king who is unexpectedly diligent in all the

crucial areas. It is possible that he called to ask 'come if you are free'

on this occasion. Did you charge your cellphone properly?"

"Forgot all about it... Which means it hasn't been charged for a

week..."

"May I express my utmost sympathies. Well, as compensation, let's

kill time by chatting instead."

Amakasu said to Ena, her shoulders slumped in disappointment.

"This area used to be called Kazusa Province, Awa Province, or

something like that in ancient times. To us, it is a location that is a

little special."

"Really? But I still don't see it."

"What are you talking about? Isn't this ocean the tragic stage where

the hero of our nation, Yamato Takeru, had lost his queen? As an

outdoor shoot location, this place is not bad at all."

Amakasu cast his gaze beyond the windbreak plantation, upon Tokyo

Bay extending into the horizon.

This finally prompted Ena's memory. A famous story in Japanese

mythology.

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"You should know the story where Yamato Takeru[11] used the Sea of

Bousou as his stage. Yeah, the one where Oto Tachibana-Hime cast

herself overboard to calm the stormy seas."

"Of course. 'I pray thee let me go into the sea, and so let the person

of thy mean handmaiden be given to redeem the life of the Prince's

Augustness'... Something like that."

Ena was the Hime-Miko well-versed in classical learning and martial

arts.

She had just quoted from the Kojiki[12].

The hero Yamato Takeru was crossing the sea at Sagami Province —

in modern terms it would be taking a ship to cross the Tokyo Bay

from Yokosuka City to the Chiba Prefecture on the opposite shore —

to reach Kazusa Province and the events were passed down as

legend. The ship was met with a violent storm after setting off, and

the sea had become dangerously turbulent. In order to restore calm

to the crisis, the queen, Oto Tachibana-Hime jumped into the ocean

to "redeem the life of the Prince's Augustness."

"Occasionally — perhaps once every couple of decades, strange

phenomena related to the legend starts circulating. Here, please have

a look at this."

"Hey... This is pretty interesting."

Amakasu had taken a book out of his bag.

It had a rather nondescript title of "Oral Traditions of Kazusa Province, Complete Collection." The binding of the book was also extremely

modest and plain.

11. Yamato Takeru: a legendary prince of the Yamato Dynasty; his father Emperor Keiko feared his brutal temperament and sent him on numerous campaigns, hoping for his death. But his aunt, a miko of Amaterasu (Japanese sun god), lent him the Kusanagi Sword (also named Ama no Murakumo) to assist him; nevertheless, he died tragically of an illness after blaspheming one of the local gods.

12. Kojiki(古事記): dating from the early 8th century, the "Record of Ancient Matters" is the oldest surviving chronicle in Japan and is a collection of myths concerning the origin of the four home islands of Japan.

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Ena quickly browsed through a short passage on the page in front of

her.

"...'Queen Oto Tachibana-Hime, jumped into the sea with sword

embosomed. Sea currents carried her sword to a landless location,

whence a floating island subsequently appeared.' I've never heard of

this?"

Her relics, the comb and clothing of Oto Tachibana-Hime, later drifted

onto a beach... This type of little story began circulating once the

queen was worshiped and enshrined as a deity.

"That's more than likely. This book was self-published three months

ago by a researcher of local history. In order to keep the contents of

this passage buried in obscurity, we had to do many things to recall

the books and even paid the author a little visit."

"Were memory manipulation spells used to wipe his memory?"

"Yes, for the sake of caution, we entered a request for the Hime-Miko

organization."

Further details beyond that must be top secret. Ena was shocked.

Amakasu was relying on a subgroup of the Hime-Miko who were able

to use memory manipulation spells — the spirit power called [Name

Concealment].

They must have been looking for a particularly powerful form of

memory tampering.

"The organization which later gave rise to its successor, the History

Compilation Committee, had kept this legend out of circulation for the

past couple hundred years. Eliminating memories of witnesses and

tampering with written records. But it was not enough. Every few

decades, rumors would rise up again elsewhere from another person.

It is as if someone keeps repeating the legend to others. Or perhaps,

on this land lies dormant a mysterious being that secretly reveals its

existence to others..."

Ena posed a question after pondering indifferently.

"This method of handling things, must certainly be the orders of

grampsy and his group?"

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"Yes, since ancient times — I believe it must be close to a millennium

when the most ancient of the ancient clans gave their instructions.

Regarding the legend of the floating island and the divine blade

appearing at Kazusa Province, as well as the Heavenly Reverse

Halberd[13] which must be kept hidden."

The Heavenly Reverse Halberd? A term she had never encountered

before. Ena began to stare at the torii before her.

If this isolated empty field was being used a secret hiding spot, then

certainly —

"How astute. Indeed, the Reverse Halberd is beneath the torii, buried

underground. Multiple layers of strict barriers were cast."

Amakasu explained after noticing the direction of Ena's gaze.

"As for the 'grass' keeping this place under surveillance... We received a secret report from them that there have been recent unidentified

instabilities... Which suggests the comings and goings of a powerful

mage. That is why it was decided to assign guards here."

"And so Kaoru-san called Ena here."

"Yes. She had an ominous premonition. It would be best to have the

strongest person here."

This was likely the result of Sayanomiya Kaoru's spirit vision which

was on quite a proficient level. An enemy that could only be repelled

by Ena the user of divine possession —

Just at that moment, Ena sensed someone's gaze.

"We're being watched, Amakasu-san? Probably nearby, but not here.

It's a high level far sight spell. What are we going to do? In case the

perpetrator actually makes a visit."

She drew the bag beside her closer.

13. Heavenly Reverse Halberd(天之逆鉾): a reference to the Amenonuhoko ("heavenly jeweled spear") which is the naginata in Japanese mythology used to raise the primordial land-mass from the sea.

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Contained within it was a Japanese sword with a two-foot-three-inch

blade. It was Seishuuin Ena's personal weapon.

She began inspecting the area with her sharp beast-like senses. Her

instincts were also exceptionally sharp, to the point of being aware of

being secretly watched through magical means... She felt a shift in

the gaze.

The gaze overlooking the surroundings of the red torii were now

focused on Ena alone.

She had only felt the other's presence for less than two minutes.

Amakasu remained silent, preparing for emergency measures to

respond to any crisis. What should they do? Was it coming?

...Nothing came. The gaze vanished and the presence could no longer

be felt.

"Escaped. Looks like the other party is very cautious."

"Perhaps they found out that Ena-san is the trump card? Or could it

be some other reason..."

Ena relaxed her state of heightened tension as Amakasu scratched his

head in puzzlement. They continued to converse.

"Why not simply transfer possession to Erica-san?"

"Hmm? What's that?"

"Since the enemy already knows about the bomb buried at this

location, we might as well dig it out and hand it over to an expert who

loves to play with fire in munitions stores."

Then he took out his cellphone. No mistake, it was to obtain

Sayanomiya Kaoru's authorization.

Realizing the intentions of the frivolous but very capable special

agent, Ena was delighted. In that case, it was time to meet Kusanagi

Godou again after so long!

The two of them were not aware, that the one watching Ena just now

was Divine Ancestor Guinevere.

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Furthermore, this was the opening scene to the adventure of the

divine sword Excalibur...

Yet another deadly battle was about to begin.

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Chapter III

Athena Reappears

Part 1

Work was proceeding cautiously under strict security.

Big clumsy machinery (seemed to be called cranes?) was being

employed to excavate a target below the the red sacred seal (called

something like torii).

— King who manifests at era's end.

The secret to his location lies dormant in this coastal holy sanctum.

The place was much more crowded than the last time Guinevere had

visited. The hidden guardian of this place had been able to vaguely

sense this land's "life force."

Even though Guinevere had concealed herself using magic, the other

party seemed to have sensed her presence slightly.

Due to the sudden increase in alert level, Guinevere had quickly

retreated.

"As feared, things will not progress that easily."

Using the [Witch's Eye] to enhance her vision, she was watching the

excavation from afar.

She had originally intended to revisit this beach in the Far East to

seek out its secret. But the local wizards seemed to be planning on

entrusting the secret to the Campione. While the uninteresting

machines were engaged in digging, the joint effort of several dozens

of wizards had released the underground seal. Guards were also set

up to prevent interference.

Amongst those dozens of people present were skilled swordsmen,

ninjas, wizards and miko on standby —

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The most troublesome opponent of all would be that sword-wielding

miko who could use divine possession. Guinevere had seen her last

time when the Great Sage Equaling Heaven had appeared. It would

be prudent to avoid a frontal confrontation with this girl.

"It is still too early to lay Guinevere's life on the line. Rather than

stand around helplessly, it would be better to reverse the situation in

the opponent's hand."

Seeking assistance from Lancelot's might... Was not an option she

considered.

Even though he was the knight who served Guinevere, he was a deity

with all things considered. If a pertinent level of respect was not

maintained, their bonds would likely grow progressively weaker.

But then again, making a request to that lowly human would really be

ridiculous to the extreme.

"Kusanagi Godou-sama who defeated the Great Sage Equaling

Heaven... Already exhibits the might of a god-slayer. Come to think of

it, Athena called him her mortal enemy..."

Just as Guinevere was analyzing the developing situation, she noticed

"movement."

"She came as expected, Goddess Athena. Coming to send Guinevere

to the grave instead of sitting somewhere waiting for her demise."

(—Beloved child, this Knight is fit for battle.)

Whispers were carried to her ears, from wherever Lancelot lay

resting.

(If the goddess reappears, just meet her in battle. Truly, she is a

formidable foe... But it will be an excellent opportunity to make

contact with the Holy Grail. If we succeed, the Divine Sword of

Salvation will also be able to retrieve its true power, and Athena's

immortality will reach an end, sending her on her way to hell.)

It was a very attractive proposal, but Guinevere shook her head.

"No, let's not do that yet. If you go all out like previously, the time

required for Sir Knight to recover will be further delayed."

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With roughly ten more days before Lancelot would recover his true

power, there was no point in overexerting themselves. After all, other

heroes were available to battle the goddess —

"Stay hidden for now. Today is definitely not the right time to meet

Athena."

Guinevere activated her magical powers of a Divine Ancestor.

Dissociating her witch's body, she became one with the air, and flew

away riding on the wind.

Erasing her trail as she ran away in this manner, even Athena would

have difficulty tracking her down.

"Tsk, was one a step too tardy?"

Clicking her tongue in disapproval, Athena was standing on a seaside

cliff in the form of a young girl.

Her gaze pointed towards the white waves crashing upon the cliff.

There had been a minute remnant of Guinevere's lingering presence.

However, it had now vanished —

"Forsooth, 'tis the Holy Grail within one's body... Alerted the prey."

Athena murmured to herself.

Thanks to swallowing the Grail, she now understood its nature fully.

"As long as this object remaineth in one's body, 'tis impossible to

approach the descendant of its creator?"

Guinevere was the witch born from the white matriarch deity's

reincarnation.

She had apparently fled as soon as she sensed Athena approaching. If

nothing changed, this situation would only repeat time and again.

"Is there no way to send that witch to her grave, and stop that man's

revival...? Hmm, 'tis one's destiny to defeat Kusanagi Godou. But as

things stand, he cannot defeat that man. For no god-slayer can

prevail against that man once he awakens."

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If that was the case, what could be done? What could Goddess Athena

do?

"— Fu. One had wished for a ripened opportunity, but the time for

harvest hast arrived. One shall have a decisive showdown against

Kusanagi Godou here."

If this life persists after the duel concluded, then Lancelot will be

forced to pay back his dues at that time...!

Her remaining time was not abundant.

Having made her decision, Athena displayed a brave and fearless

smile.

The goddess' battle spirit roused, the waves beneath intensified in

turn. Violent winds blew across the sky to answer to the goddess'

raging spirit.

"Superbly done, war god Lancelot. As befitted proper [Steel]

inheriting the ways of ancients. Desecrating one's immortality in this

manner!"

The swallowed Holy Grail continued to erode her life from within.

The immortal goddess's life was gradually absorbed by this divine

artifact. Slowly and surely, Athena was approaching death.

"Hohoho. Were one to take this Holy Grail and crosseth over to the

[Boundary of Life and Immortality], perhaps this life may persist

indefinitely..."

There were occasional [Heretic Gods], tired of endless wandering,

who chose to live secluded in that world.

It could very well be Athena's one and only path of survival.

"Nevertheless, one is not obliged to take that path. Letting the riotous spirit rage in war, and choosing the path of battle is what befits this

goddess. One shall first defeat Kusanagi Godou, then Lancelot shall be

vanquished. If this life lingereth still, justice shall be met upon that

maidservant, and vengeance brought to that man...!"

Precisely because she had transcended mortality, she was not one to

struggle for the sake of prolonging her life.

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Death was welcome as long as all those unaccomplished tasks could

be settled without regret. When the time comes and her power is fully

depleted, she will lay down upon the earth and pass away as if

entering eternal slumber.

Athena was not only the tripartite goddess, but also the goddess of

war.

As the end drew near, would it not be particularly meaningful to

embrace death as the goddess of war?!

Standing before the turbulent eastern sea, Athena felt exhilaration as

her emotions rose to new heights.

Part 2

On the Friday after the school festival had ended, Kusanagi Godou

was going to Chiba Prefecture. The day before, he had received a

phone call from Seishuuin Ena.

"Hello, Your Majesty, please! I hope you can help!"

It was the first time ever for him to receive a call from Ena. This was

the girl who seldom used modern tools of civilization with their

intended purpose.

"Sure, if it's within my power... Is it something troublesome?"

"I'm afraid so. Ah, but Amakasu-san said Your Majesty once accepted

a similar request from Erica-san, so it shouldn't matter."

"Something Erica once requested..."

Godou was reminded of all sorts of unreasonable demands she had

forced upon him before.

They all pretty much sowed the seeds for future conflict with gods.

"The worst time was when she forced me to bring back the stone

medallion which drew Athena to Tokyo."

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"Yes yes, that's exactly it. There's a medal-like thing that we want

Your Majesty to safeguard for us. It's still being dug out of the

ground, but it'll probably be ready tomorrow or the day after."

Last time he had been entrusted with the unforgettable Gorgoneion. It

was a medallion with the mother earth goddess' wisdom engraved on

it.

Well, it can't be helped. Godou sighed.

This was like volunteering himself to finish the job. It meant helping

Ena, Amakasu and the rest of them even more in the future. Starting

around spring earlier this year, he had been completely sucked into

involvement with the supernatural world—

Godou lamented to himself as he answered.

"Understood. I'll help. What do I need to do first?"

"We will welcome Your Majesty here tomorrow. Ena is currently at

Chiba, oh?"

The next day after that phone call was a bright and sunny Friday.

After returning from school, Godou lied about staying at a friend's

place for the weekend before setting off from home.

Having arranged a ride with an acquaintance beforehand, he waited at

a nearby main road. A common silver domestic car stopped briskly

before Godou on the roadside.

Godou was shocked to see the person at the steering wheel.

It was the androgynous Hime Miko, Sayanomiya Kaoru, who

resembled both a handsome youth and a beautiful lady at the same

time.

"Actually I just received my driver's license, so let me be the

chauffeur for today."

She winked and explained as he sat down on the passenger seat

beside her.

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Come to think of it, she (often feels like a he) was in her third year of

high school.

Even if she had just reached eighteen years of age, it was sufficient to

get a normal official license.

"Thank you for your efforts... But Kaoru-san seems to be quite

familiar with driving?"

"Yes. I 'just happened' to get my license recently. On the other hand,

having a car is a lot more convenient when going out with girls to

various places for fun. In the past, I sometimes carried authorization

under another's name, and it often proved to be useful."

Kaoru's control of the steering wheel was very steady. Somehow,

Godou felt like verifying if she might drive recklessly like a novice...

"It feels quite incredible when I realized recently just how many

amazing people are around me, leading normal lives..."

"Hmm, this could very well be called 'birds of a feather, flock

together.'"

Kaoru replied cheerfully to Godou's exclamation.

Furthermore, she was suggestively grouping herself with Godou and

his other strange companions together.

"Well, from this moment on, I will be the proud driver in charge of our

journey. Do you want to go for a spin and pick up girls? I'm sure if

Godou-san partners with me, we're in for quite a catch!"

"I'm not used to hitting on such a large number of girls!"

Kaoru continued to drive steadily as she made her unsettling

suggestion.

Along the way they picked up two girls. Mariya Yuri and Liliana

Kranjcar.

Both of them in casual dress, Yuri was wearing a one-piece dress with

a matching knitted top while Liliana was dressed in a short-sleeved

blouse, jeans and a halfcoat.

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"So, now that everyone is here, I will briefly explain the situation."

Kaoru spoke slowly as soon as they got on the Shuto Expressway.

The Hime-Miko and History Compilation Committee executive

revealed an incredible legend.

Queen Oto Tachibana-Hime, jumped into the sea with sword

embosomed. Sea currents carried her sword to a landless location,

whence a floating island subsequently appeared.

"Now that it's mentioned, Kazusa and Awa are certainly places with

deep ties to Yamato Takeru no Mikoto and Oto Tachibana-Hime."

Yuri the Hime-Miko was the first to nod in agreement.

"Is that so, Mariya?"

"Yes. Godou-san should probably know already—"

Yuri proceeded to recount the last moments of Oto Tachibana-Hime.

It was a most familiar story.

"The place where Takeru no Mikoto and Hime set off to sea, called

Hashirimizu, still exists in Kanagawa Prefecture. Shrines were built in

worship of Oto Tachibana-Hime as a deity on both sides of Tokyo Bay

in Kanagawa and Chiba."

It was the story of Yamato Takeru that Godou knew from childhood.

For Tokyo Bay to be involved in that setting... Godou was honestly

surprised.

"The interesting thing here is that the surfacing rumors always involve

Oto Tachibana-Hime. Even the discontinued version had a part about

Yamato Takeru and Hime."

Kaoru provided supplementary details.

"The prestigious sword and its owner the Noble One sank into the sea,

floating towards 'the island where there was neither land nor sea.'

When the sword reappears on earth, the Noble One shall reawaken...

That is what was said."

"In that case..."

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Liliana suddenly interrupted.

Since the conversation topic had been about Japanese myths which

were outside her expertise, she had remained silent until now.

"What this fantastic legend is really trying to convey, is not the final moments of Hime, but the whereabouts of the sword... Is that not

correct?"

"That could very well be true. At least, that was how Amakasu-san

and I got our hands on this matter."

Kaoru expressed agreement as she continued to drive.

"Regarding this issue, I have a whole list of questions I'd like to ask

the Elders. Originally, a policy of absolute secrecy was enforced over

that place for a very long time, most likely over a thousand years. But

since an explosive situation is definitely unavoidable, we thought, why

not just add Kusanagi-san to the mix to detonate it."

"It is a rather helpless situation, Sayanomiya Kaoru."

"Well, not exactly. As a secret matter related to gods, there is always

a high probability that Godou-san will be involved eventually. In that

case, why not call him in from the very start?"

"I see. If you put it that way, I certainly agree."

Liliana nodded in agreement with Kaoru who had just described

Godou as if he was a walking bomb.

Godou was about to object with indignation.

"That said, is there actually a Noble One in eternal slumber with the

sword? In this world, there is no such thing as an island in a place

with neither land nor sea. The description is virtually the same as King

Arthur and Excalibur sleeping in Avalon the land of the fairies."

The silver-haired knight mused further, surprising Kaoru.

"As befitting of Liliana-san. Amakasu-san had also made the same

observation. Yamato Takeru, King Arthur, and the war gods of steel

are all implicated in this legend."

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Thus, a dangerous statement was made.

The car carrying the group entered the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway

from the Kawasaki-Ukishima junction.

Passing through Shuto Expressway that was illuminated by a shade of

dusk, they entered the tunnel that traversed Tokyo Bay. Continuing

forward would reach the parking area of the Umihotaru artificial

island. From there, the Bousou Peninsula could be reached via the

Kisarazu link route.

As the stage where a myth took place, this sea could be traversed in

dozens of minutes.

"The so-called floating island is commonly believed to be the 'Palace

of the Floating Island' where Yamato Takeru's father, Emperor Keiko

held his banquets when he was visiting his sons in the Kantou region."

Kaoru explained along the way.

It was almost dark by the time they reached Kisarazu. Kaoru stopped

the car somewhere near the coast.

"I've been waiting for everyone!"

"Ah, a very great welcome to our special guests from far away."

Two familiar faces approached as they got off the car.

Seishuuin Ena and Amakasu Touma. Ena was wearing her usual

uniform while Amakasu also had his usual sloppy suit. In that regard

they were a rather good match for each other. Along with Kaoru who

was impeccably dressed in a winter jacket, this notion of usual attire

was further reinforced.

"Eh, Erica-san didn't come?"

"She said she was busy and had to return to Italy."

Ena muttered "hmm" in response to the simple explanation.

A frantic expression flashed across her face. But Ena ignored Godou's

gaze of curiosity and went on to greet the others.

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Yuri smiled in response to Ena's usual enthusiasm, while Liliana

greeted generously.

"By the way, can we talk for a moment?"

Amakasu called out, not to Godou, but to Yuri and Liliana.

"An object called the Heavenly Reverse Halberd is currently being

excavated. To be honest, it's impossible to guess at this point what

the thing will look like. Therefore, we hope you two can lend your

eyes of wisdom."

Basically they wished for assistance from the power of spirit vision.

In response to the request to "view" the excavation site, Yuri and

Liliana replied in the following manner:

"I cannot be certain if anything will be seen, but let us go to its

vicinity for now."

"I see. Perhaps as a witch, I might be able to assist the investigation."

"...Do I have to go along?"

Without thought, Godou asked. Because he was slightly intrigued.

"Oh, Kusanagi-san, all things considered, you still have many other

matters to attend to."

"Umm, yes, can Your Majesty accompany me for a bit?"

—? Godou found it rather strange. The laid-back special agent had

many hidden interests. Be that as it may, his tone of voice was

slightly different from usual. This time, it was a serious tone of voice.

But before Godou could voice his doubt, Ena held him by the hand

and dragged him away.

"Then I entrust all matters to everyone. Especially you, Kusanagi-san,

please handle things appropriately."

Amakasu, Yuri and Liliana on one hand. Godou and Ena on the other.

As the two groups departed for different destinations, Kaoru bid them

farewell with a strange remark.

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Part 3

"So Seishuuin, what do you want me to do?"

Walking along the beach at night, they were on the Kisarazu shore

facing the sea of Edomae.

Godou spoke to Seishuuin Ena's back as she walked ahead of him.

"Why do we have to come here? I feel like there's nothing to see

here."

The coast at night was completely devoid of people.

The two of them had walked for close to ten minutes along the beach.

The only light sources were street lamps from roads in the distance,

starlight and the white glow of the half moon.

Well, there were no inconveniences since Godou had excellent night

vision.

Ena was probably the same. But then again, what was the point of

taking this walk in the night?

"Probably about time? Actually Ena has a request to make of Your

Majesty."

"Request?"

"Yes. Actually, Ena only found out about Your Majesty's school festival

after it had ended."

Ena stopped and turned around. Facing Godou, she stared at him with

a nervous expression.

"I see. I tried calling you, hoping you could come in case you were

free, but couldn't get through."

"Umm, it's like this... But anyway, Ena thinks it's quite a shame."

Though gloomy for an instant, Ena immediately recovered her spirits.

"I missed a rare chance to enjoy a festival together with Your

Majesty. Because of that, I asked Yuri and Liliana-san to let me have

today to enjoy with Your Majesty. Starting now."

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"So that is what you mean by request?! Which is why we deliberately

came to the beach..."

Godou felt like surrendering.

"I knew it. Then Amakasu-san and Kaoru-san's unnatural attitudes

were because they were part of the conspiracy!?"

"Yes. Those two knew about the school festival but remained silent

about it. I threatened them to make up for it, or else I'd withdraw my

assistance. Luckily Erica-san isn't here, so we won't be disturbed."

It had been mentioned before that the Hime-Miko were not

subordinates of the Committee. They were honored guests who

provided assistance through invitation.

Nevertheless, it was probably unnecessary to lean on authority for a

matter like this.

Ena acted even more coyly towards the stunned Godou.

"Hey, Ena would sometimes like to have some private time with Your

Majesty, may I?"

Now that it was brought up — it finally occurred to Godou. He had

never spent any time alone with Ena. Almost every time there were

others present.

"...Well, occasionally should be fine."

Intentionally avoiding someone for the sake of being with someone

else was not Godou's preferred way of doing things. But it was true

that he had very little opportunity to spend time alone with Ena.

He certainly could not bear to turn down her openly expressed good

will.

"As expected of Your Majesty, it's exactly what Ena wants!"

"But how are we going to enjoy ourselves? There's nothing here."

A beach in early winter. Furthermore, it was night.

During daylight hours on a warm day might have been fine, but the

current conditions were really not quite suited for amusement.

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Well, the winter constellations shining in the sky could be thought of

as a backdrop, while the rustling of breaking waves could count as

background music. Alone with just the two of them. The stage was set

for a romantic and dramatic scene. But what terrible casting of actors!

For the current two people present, this situation was a bit too

inappropriate?!

"Look, an empty can over there. Let's play kick the can?"

"It's no fun with only two people, right? Or maybe it's not that fun

anyway."

Just as expected, the conversation quickly became awkward and

meaningless.

If the other person was Erica, Liliana or Yuri, she would likely have

taken other measures to get intimate.

Nevertheless, Godou felt reassured.

Although he had gained some familiarity, he still did not have much

confidence in getting along with girls.

"Ah, there's even a soccer ball here. Back when Ena was a child, I'd

mix myself into the boys' games and defeat them completely."

"But then again, beach soccer isn't something for two people to

play..."

Ena recalled her childhood memories of personal athletics.

She must have been the type to dribble the ball alone, repeatedly

penetrating the defense to score.

He already had one of those super athletes amongst his companions

— Erica, who relied on individual performance even in team matches.

Ena was probably the same kind of player as her. If they played

baseball, they would probably be trump card fourth hitter material.

"Well in that case, it finally comes to this? There happens to be two,

just the right number."

Ena bent over to pick up two branches, each less than a meter long.

Most likely driftwood brought to the beach by the waves.

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"This is a duel between two people. Ena versus Your Majesty one on

one would be nice."

"Nice? I can't win Seishuuin that easily."

"Ah, come to think of it, Your Majesty doesn't know any

swordsmanship or martial arts. If other people went through the same

experiences as Your Majesty, they'd probably rush off to learn some

self defense in a last ditch effort."

"Really? But I don't think it'd be particularly fruitful."

Godou was reminded of Salvatore Doni.

That man's existence was proof of the fruitlessness of that course of

action.

For idiot Doni, only training in swordsmanship was meaningful. First

of all, he was an unorthodox genius, and secondly, mastery of

swordsmanship would enhance the power of that guy's authority.

In contrast, Kusanagi Godou was not a genius. Even if he trained for

fifty years, he would probably not develop martial arts to a level that

could match gods or Doni.

In that case, he should figure out how to use his own advantages to

match those monsters instead —

Because following the same path as that guy is definitely not the way

to defeat him.

...No no, wait a minute.

Could it be possible that as a Campione, Godou himself had already

been deeply influenced by that idiot?

Godou began shaking his head in an attempt to dismiss the

unpleasant possibility.

"Anyway, let's first decide how to play with this thing... How about

this?"

Godou received a branch from Ena.

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Using the tip he drew a large tic-tac-toe grid on the beach, and

marked the center with an "O."

"Your Majesty wants to play this... If that's the case, Ena will follow

suit."

Ena drew an "X" on another spot.

Finally, the two competed in games of tic-tac-toe.

"Together with the kids who played baseball, I used to play this a lot."

"Ah, I know it. As a child, I only had occasional free time. Though

many children had handheld games, Ena did not."

"Seishuuin always played outdoors when you were a child like me?"

"Uh huh. Probably until third grade or so. Very naughty, right? But

very soon, swordsmanship and Hime-Miko training began. And there

were other things to learn too. Often traveling to the mountains, Ena

no longer had time for those kinds of pastimes."

"Ah... So Seishuuin had all sorts of responsibilities. You must have

been quite busy."

The child of nature who prided in her swordsmanship. The talented

girl equally well-versed in classical learning and martial arts. As a

Hime-Miko, a Yamato Nadeshiko skilled in all sorts of areas.

Her complicated experiences could not have been cultivated in one

day. Godou's childhood achievement was improving his baseball

ability. Overall, he felt he could empathize with the great sacrifices

Ena had made for the sake of building up all those accomplishments.

"I can't come to Your Majesty's side very often these days, which is

why I wanted to see you at the school festival. Now that I think about

it, I have never gone out for fun with Your Majesty and the rest of the

group."

Ena continued to talk as she played tic-tac-toe.

Rather than an intensifying competition, it was more like a game for

killing time as they chatted.

"If that's the case, just come next time."

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"Eh?"

Godou's expression naturally became very warm and gentle.

Without really knowing how to express her femininity, Ena's

personality was rather simple and laid-back. There were a couple

unnecessarily stubborn aspects and occasions when she was very

hard to get along with. But they could all be attributed to her unusual

upbringing, which likely gave her little chance for normal social

contact.

"I still have two more years before I graduate. Even if you missed this

time's, Seishuuin, you can still come next year. So like I said, there

are more chances. I will gladly accompany you any number of times."

It was hard to believe, but Seishuuin Ena was a very easy girl to get

along with.

There was no other girl that he could spend time like this as if she

was a male friend. She would be most welcome to visit any time she

wanted.

Concluding with such a feeling, Godou smiled reassuringly.

"Ah okay. Thank you, Your Majesty. I'm very happy to hear that

coming from you."

"You don't have to thank this kind of thing. That's too polite."

"Ah, but then again, isn't Your Majesty frequently in danger? Isn't it a concern whether you'll live to see this time next year? But don't

worry, no matter what, Ena will always guard Your Majesty with her

life!"

"Don't say something so foreboding. I still intend to live a good life

and die peacefully!"

The two chatted casually, joking around. But Ena suddenly frowned.

She threw away the branch and stood up. With a wary gaze she

surveyed the surroundings. Without asking "what's the matter?",

Godou also stood up silently.

It was at this very moment that the intruder's identity was revealed.

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"It's here, Your Majesty. Please be careful."

Ena whispered softly. The Hime-Miko of the Sword directed her gaze

towards the other side of the beach — near where a boat was parked.

A young girl was approaching from there. The familiar face of a

beautiful pubescent girl. Nevertheless, that power and solemnity

emanating from her body definitely belonged to no ordinary human.

"...It's her."

Godou felt his body brimming with power, having entered a state of

battle.

He had already sensed immediately that the one approaching was a

god, the mortal enemy of every Devil King Campione. However, her

identity was most unexpected, even to Godou.

The young goddess slowly made her way over. Heretic Athena was

her name.

Part 4

"How fares thee? Kusanagi Godou!"

The goddess called out loudly. Her eyes were entirely focused on

Kusanagi Godou.

She completely ignored Seishuuin Ena beside him. To Goddess

Athena, even the premier Hime-Miko's existence was akin to weeds or

pebbles on the roadside.

On the other hand, the Hime-Miko of the Sword took out her Japanese

sword from its bag.

She entered a battle stance — But Godou signaled with his eyes,

ordering her to stand down. This opponent was out of her league.

"One arriveth once more, to ascertain thou fulfillest thy promise of

past."

"Promise... That one?"

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In the battle against Perseus, Athena had bestowed upon him the hint

to deciphering the mysterious divine hero's identity.

Without a doubt, he had a made promise then. He definitely had to

return the favor and accept one request from the goddess.

"One hath but a single wish. A duel, Kusanagi Godou."

Athena's eyes were infused with golden light.

Fluctuating with a seductive brightness, those serpentine eyes flashed

brilliantly in the dark night.

"Like blazing fires which die down and burn out before long. Like wind

strongly swirling into a vortex, gone quickly like the passage of a

hurricane. Thou shalt fight with one and scatter the beautiful sparks

of battle!"

"What!?"

Even though he had been instantly bewitched by the snake's

seduction, Godou immediately yelled out.

"I should have said so at the time. I will not accept requests that

bring trouble to others. Have you any idea how much destruction will

result from a battle between us!?"

"When a god dueleth a god-slayer, 'tis only natural for the people to

be sacrificed."

Such incomparable stupidity — was what Athena's eyes of despise

seemed to be saying.

"Certainly there will be sacrifices if we fight. Dost not forget, thy

fellow humans trample grass and flowers beneath their feet as they

walk the earth. 'Tis the same principle."

Sigh. Realizing what the goddess was trying to convey, Godou had

nothing more to say.

After all, gods were all identical in this regard!

"Such are the constant ways of heaven and earth. Worryest not

thyself, Kusanagi Godou."

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Gods were set apart by their mentality of not caring for any individual

human.

All humans on earth were indiscriminately grouped together as simply

"humanity." Even if half of the world population were to die, it would only feel like "oh, humanity still survives" to them. This must be why the concrete thought of "people died, cities destroyed, trouble caused

everywhere" never occurred to them?

That was what Godou reckoned.

"Our battle shall cause people to collapse, the earth to suffer, and the heavens to sigh. But no matter, humanity and nature constantly

endures suffering for endless repetition. We only need to rouse our

hearts in excitement and rage on."

"How can that be acceptable! Stop talking nonsense!"

Godou could not stop himself from shouting gruffly.

To this goddess of wisdom perhaps it would come as a surprise or be

regarded as desecration.

"Anyway, I don't want to hear such a wish. Choose a new one!"

"Nay, those words cannot be taken back."

Athena coldly rejected Godou's refusal.

"As a god-slayer, thou art still an immature brat who hath hardly lived

as a Devil King. As a result, one had hoped to wait until the fruit

ripeneth. One wanted to rely on this immortal life, patiently waiting

for the proper time of harvest. However, the leisure for that, no

longer existeth..."

The goddess' appearance remained the same, that of a beautiful

young girl's.

However, that beauty was certainly like a great serpent standing

before its prey. Staring with serpentine eyes, baring snake fangs

hidden deep within those red lips. Violent and ferocious as a snake!

Noticing Athena's fighting spirit, Godou secretly trembled in fright.

"So, dost not hold back and fight. Tonight shall be our final duel."

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"Damn it, no other way..."

Faced with Athena's fierce advances, Godou made his decision.

Battle was unavoidable. In that case he must come up with a plan to

handle it. He must find a way to minimize human casualties and

property damage. He must stay as far away as possible from city

streets, and contain the goddess with all his power. Though he could

not be certain if that was possible, that was the only way —

"Hmph, those are irrelevant concerns, god-slayer."

But suddenly, Athena whispered softly to Godou as he racked his

brains.

Cold as a snake, but also with a slightly disappointed tone of voice.

She was like a senior looking at a junior from far above, worrying

about his immaturity, hoping he would show dramatic improvement

and growth.

"A hero destined to become a fierce tiger, but merely a tiger's cub

right now. Thou mayst carry a warrior's instinct, but a warrior's mettle

is still lacking by far."

Godou gradually became intrigued.

Why? Why did she change her tone of voice after those fierce words

earlier?

"Fu— In that case, one shall mercifully do thee a favor once more.

Forgetst the request for now. Kusanagi Godou shall be shown his

foolishness!"

The goddess bore a fearless smile, and turned to leave.

In the direction she had come from. Step by step, she walked away

from Godou.

"To prepare the proper stage for our unfavorable destiny. When the

time cometh, thou shalt display thy mettle to this goddess. Only then

shalt thou be worthy of bargaining with one!"

So she means she will be back?

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Listening to those words of farewell, Godou stared blankly at Athena's

departure.

"She's gone, Your Majesty. That was the one who came to Tokyo

earlier in spring this year..."

"Ah yes. The great snake goddess..."

Godou replied hoarsely to Ena who had kept a stance ready to draw

her sword.

Without a doubt, that was Heretic Athena.

However, something did not feel right. Godou could only feel there

was something, but could not express into words...

Part 5

With the passage of night, it was now Saturday.

Godou and friends stayed at a nearby hotel arranged by Amakasu.

Athena's reappearance had been reported. Both Liliana and Yuri, who

had faced the ancient goddess before, paled as soon as they heard

the news. Amakasu scratched his head as if extremely troubled.

"In case something happens, we need to prepare countermeasures..."

In a rare moment, even the elegant Kaoru was musing solemnly for

once.

Anyway, their original purpose here was to safeguard the Heavenly

Reverse Halberd.

The excavation had completed around daybreak. Hearing that the

work had completed while they were sleeping, Godou and his group

went to take a look as soon as they finished breakfast.

The solitary torii stood near the Kisarazu shore.

The massive digging operation undertaken for "a certain object"

buried beneath it.

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Over the course of many days, the underground barrier was carefully

removed as the heavy machinery continued to dig from the surface.

After 8am, Godou arrived at the excavation site.

"I have some mundane business to handle, so I'll leave Amakasu-san

in charge for the remaining proceedings."

Having said that, Kaoru left for Tokyo.

Most likely to make all sorts of preparations in light of Athena's

reappearance.

The remaining members of the team, Yuri, Liliana, Ena and Amakasu

accompanied Godou to the site.

The excavation site had already been sealed off by tape. Around ten-

odd local policemen were standing on guard, making it seem like

some sort of murder crime scene.

"These are real policemen here, but the majority of them are affiliated

with us. If you count the ones who not visible right now, there are

even more of them."

Amakasu casually explained.

With that, Godou and his group were like criminal investigators

entering a crime scene for inspection.

"...This is the Heavenly Reverse Halberd?"

The "object" dug up that morning had been placed on a blue plastic

sheet.

On first glance it appeared to be a very ordinary stick. Roughly the

length and thickness of a pencil.

The material was unidentified, with a beige color like carefully

varnished timber. It felt very solid to the touch, though not as hard as

stone, but much harder than plastic.

"Last night, Mariya Yuri and I tried to investigate this object while it was still being excavated."

Liliana reported.

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"There is no doubt that it is a divine artifact. Just like the Gorgoneion you were entrusted with last time. The object you see is only its

surface, but hidden within it is the crystallization of divine wisdom and

power, a symbol of the immortal and indestructible."

It was going to turn into a conflict with gods again.

Godou concluded with certainty as Liliana continued.

"Had it been made of the essence of the earth like the Heraion, then

there would be the possibility of destroying it before it becomes the

object of contention. However, this type of divine artifact is

indestructible. Very likely, even a [Heretic God] would not be able to

fully destroy it."

"That's why it was buried underground, and secretly guarded..."

Godou sighed.

Things would be so much easier if it could be destroyed...

"Fortunately, spirit vision about the Heavenly Reverse Halberd had

been received."

It was Yuri's turn to report.

"This is likely a divine artifact related to earth and rock. I can sense the power of Izanagi no Mikoto[1] and Izanami no Mikoto[2] used to

give rise to the primordial sea and Yamato[3] country."

"...Izanagi and Izanami?"

"Yes. The legendary gods who created the land of Yamato and

founded the country."

This was the extent of Yuri and Lilana's findings.

1. Izanagi: a male deity who bore many of the islands, deities and forefathers of Japan with his sister Izanami.

2. Izanami: a goddess of creation and death, the former wife of Izanagi.

3. Yamato(倭): ancient name for Japan.

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Godou examined the Heavenly Reverse Halberd once again. What

should he do with this thing? It did not feel safe to carry around

personally, but there was no other way. Besides, it happened to be

the size of a pencil —

"I'll just keep it in my shirt pocket for now."

"Even though this is a treasure that can shake the world, but I guess

it's an appropriate measure. I can't think of anywhere safer than the

bosom of Kusnagi-san."

Godou felt rather sad that he could not bring himself to openly

disagree with Amakasu's inauspicious comment.

He pocketed the divine artifact. Had it been a lucky charm for traffic

safety, it would probably be treated differently.

"Actually, I tried reaching grampsy just now."

Ena suddenly spoke up.

Ena's grampsy — the Old One, namely, the ancient god Susanoo who

lived in the Netherworld.

"Ena was hoping to get some information about this halberd-thing,

but it didn't work. The 'sound' should have been transmitted to the

other side, but there was complete silence with no response."

As the guardian of the Hime-Miko of the Sword, Susanoo and Ena had

always kept in contact by cellphone.

But this time, he was apparently playing the dirty trick of pretending

to be away(?).

"It feels like he doesn't want to give directions..."

As Godou grumbled, Ena took out her Japanese sword and pushed the

sword guard with her thumb, loosening it from its sheath.

This was the preparatory posture for unsheathing a sword. The stance

known as "koiguchi wo kiru."[4]

4. Koiguchi wo kiru(鯉口を切る): literally means "cutting the carp's mouth," the act of loosening a sword from its scabbard.

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"White... Goddess. No, it is something else?"

Yuri was whispering softly, her eyes focused somewhere in the distant

sky.

Something that the others could not see. She must be seeing

something through spirit vision.

"I get it. A visitor is approaching..."

A cellphone began to vibrate. Amakasu slowly drew out his phone and

responded to someone who seemed to be a friend.

"Kusanagi Godou, be on guard."

Godou nodded to acknowledge Liliana's warning and prepared his

stance.

—In the next instant, a young girl suddenly manifested. At the

location in the sky where Yuri had been staring.

With brilliant blonde hair styled into curls, her dream-like beauty was

like an antique western doll made by a master craftsman. She wore a

black dress that was reminiscent of funeral attire.

A young beauty twelve-years-old or so whose every aspect left a deep

impression.

"Greetings for the first time, Kusanagi Godou-sama."

An adorable voice as exquisite as gemstones.

A god —she was not. But she could not possibly be anyone ordinary.

What was she? Despite looking human, she could not be categorized

as human. Godou stared at the ominous young beauty.

"Pray forgive me for directly addressing by name Your Highness, the

god-slaying [King]. My name is Guinevere, and I have appeared here

to inform Your Highness of certain matters."

Godou frowned at the elegant choice of words that did not match the

young girl's appearance.

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"If it's just to listen to a few words, I don't mind. But I am a stingy

person who doesn't go around with ready gifts for sudden visitors. Is

that okay?"

"Of course, Your Highness."

Guinevere ignored Godou's cold reception and smiled glamorously.

This must be the person Lu Yinghua mentioned. It was just intuition,

but should not be too far from the truth.

"I've heard about you before. You're the companion of that woman

deeply involved with the Nikkou incident, right?"

"You are correct. Indeed, Guinevere is a Divine Ancestor as Asherah's

kin."

Her expressions, manner of speaking, motions.

Everything felt full of pretense, like some kind of superficial layer

drawn on top.

A Divine Ancestor —an existence completely unlike the gods. Godou

had heard that they were former goddesses, but Guinevere was

acknowledging humans other than Godou. And also, she was

nonchalantly keeping tabs on them.

"My purpose here today is to offer a plan to Kusanagi Godou-sama."

The blonde Divine Ancestor smiled elegantly as she spoke.

"Plan?"

"Yes. Guinevere already found out. As Your Highness' mortal enemy,

the goddess Athena has once again appeared in this island country.

As long as they are nearby, gods and god-slayers will mutually

attract, encounter, face off and slaughter one another."

Calmly explaining like a little bird singing a song.

Guinevere continued speaking softly with a melodic voice.

"Your Highness and Athena's duel is inevitable. I have a plan that will

prove effective when the time comes, if only Your Highness will hear

it."

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"Something effective in a battle with a god?"

It sounded as trustworthy as stock market tips guaranteeing massive

profits.

"Hohoho. Suspicious? As befits the young but experienced warrior!

But please rest assured, Guinevere is providing a countermeasure

that only takes effect in a battle with Athena!"

"...Hey, that's you, right?"

Ena addressed the witch in a soft voice as if casually humming a

song.

"You are the one who was watching Ena and the others as we stood

on guard. There's a kind of similar feeling. You must be aiming for the

Heavenly Reverse Halberd, right?"

Godou nodded, aware of the sharp senses of the Hime-Miko of the

Sword.

For this Guinevere to appear now, it could not possibly be unrelated

to the unearthed divine artifact.

"Yes. Indeed, Guinevere certainly wants that sacred treasure —it is

hoped that Your Highness would offer up that unique divine artifact!"

Admitting to her crimes, the Divine Ancestor began to approach.

Walking towards Kusanagi Godou. Taking leisurely footsteps like a girl

strolling on a plain blooming with flowers.

"When Your Highness encounters Athena once more, and my plan

works successfully, would Your Highness be so kind as to grant

Guinevere's wish? I do hope to obtain Your Highness' consent."

It felt like a joking request full of pretense.

Of course Godou was going to ignore it. Everyone else felt the same

way.

Ena drew her sword and Liliana summoned Il Maestro. The two girls

stepped forward, blocking Guinevere's path. However, some spell

must have been used—

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The Divine Ancestor's dress-clad body moved past the swordsmen

and came before Godou like the wind.

Was the Heavenly Reverse Halberd the target? Godou went on full

alert.

He was not confident he could defend if she used that ability again

and aimed for his pocket. Godou took out the divine artifact and

tossed it to Amakasu waiting on the side.

What a competent ninja. He caught the artifact splendidly and put it

away in his bosom.

In the instant when Godou was readying his stance.

"Hohoho, Your Highness is full of openings as rumored."

Guinevere approached with quick light steps.

It did not seem very fast, but she closed the distance just like that,

before Godou could mount any defense.

The witch drew her lips close to Godou's face.

And kissed him.

"On the other hand, this kind of generous leniency can be considered

proof of a [King]'s magnanimity. A brilliant genius who is not

concerned with such trivial things! Guinevere has great hopes for you,

Kusanagi-sama!"

Was it instruction magic? Knowledge was flowing in through the

mouths pressed together.

No, that was not all there was to it. There was more feeling to it like

some sort of secret know-how.

—What is the Holy Grail? The sacred treasure that absorbs the

essence of the earth and stores incomparable magical power. In order

to unlock its functions, these are the required procedures, knowledge,

sensitivities, incantations, rituals, magic...

Rather than simply transferring knowledge, this spell taught [Magic]

on a much higher level!

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By the time Godou realized this, Guinevere had already separated her

lips from him.

"I beseech you to vanquish Athena and add new victories to your

repertoire. The [Spell of the Holy Grail] will be the trump card for this

purpose. Till we meet again!"

Bidding farewell, the blonde witch disappeared.

As suddenly as she had appeared, she vanished instantly like mist.

The witch Guinevere had left the excavation site, leaving behind this

magic of unknown purpose.

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"What on earth is she planning?"

"Her goal seemed to be transmitting knowledge to Godou-san..."

Yuri came to Godou's side as he puzzled over what happened.

"Do you feel a headache or some kind of mental instability?"

"Nothing, I don't feel especially different."

Godou assured Yuri who was worried.

In truth, a Campione's magic resistance and vitality were

extraordinary. Extremely resilient. Disregarding the authorities of

gods and devil kings, the chances of receiving serious injuries from

enemy magic was exceptionally low.

Indeed, Divine Ancestors did not have magical power on par with

Campiones.

Godou understood concretely with his own body. However, Yuri was

watching him with sorrowful eyes.

"What's wrong, Mariya? I'm completely fine."

"No... The witch was very right. Godou-san really does have too many

openings, it is slightly disappointing..."

Yuri spoke with great worry.

"D-Disappointing? Why?"

"Even if she was not an ordinary person, for a female to steal your

lips in the first encounter, it is certainly extraordinary. Godou-san

must be deliberately opening yourself up to those kinds of

advances..."

Yuri's appearance displayed a kind of dream-like beauty as she

mournfully voiced her concerns in a soft voice.

The mood was completely like a disheartened wife complaining about

a husband who frequently spends the night with a lover instead of

returning home...

Was this the feeling commonly known as lying on a bed of nails?

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Godou found it impossible to bear. In the past he might have felt less

of a burden when sternly reproached by her. But as their relationship

deepened, the sense of guilty conscience seemed to be weighing

heavier—

Furthermore, even Liliana was joining in the fray.

"I see now. Precisely due to the existence of such openings, anyone

skillful enough can take advantage of them and intrude successfully.

Mariya Yuri's diatribe has substantial implications."

"—!?"

The exceptionally loyal knight was now glaring at Godou with eyes of

reproach.

"In addition, the incident just now has reminded me of something

else. What did you do last night when you were alone with Seishuuin

Ena? No, I have no intention of reproach. Nevertheless, even as the

housekeeper I did not receive any report afterwards... I believe this

type of carelessness is related to the 'openings' pointed out just now.

If that is the case, then correction is imperative."

No intention of reproach.

Liliana said those words as she stared at Godou with eyes of

reproach.

Both the incident just now and last night as well!? It would be best

not to make too much of a fuss here.

Greatly troubled, Godou could not help but signal to Ena with his

eyes, hoping for her to lend a helping hand. However, the Hime-Miko

of the Sword smiled shyly instead.

"Hmm. Even though Ena has all sorts of opinions on what happened

just now, last night was very fun and enjoyable, spending time with

Your Majesty with just the two of us. I can't help it, sorry for not

saying anything until now."

An answer like that. Wasn't that simply pouring oil on the fire?

Clutching his head in his arms, Godou found unexpected aid.

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Wisely ignoring this pandemonium all this time, Amakasu suddenly

picked up a call on his cellphone.

"...Yes, yes. Finally appeared, eh? The location is Kawasaki... Near

Ukishima. Is that right, already fallen to the enemy? Still in motion?

Towards Chiba after all? I see. From the Ukishima Interchange

towards the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway tunnel? Hmm, in that case

there's not much time left..."

Godou and the rest fell silent. Amakasu soon finished the call.

"I regret to bring bad news. Athena has finally appeared in public.

Just like last time, she has released all her powers and is heading

straight towards this place."

Thus ended the report.

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Chapter IV

Petrified Metropolis

Part 1

Having bid Kusanagi Godou goodbye last night, Athena had crossed

the sea.

The beauty of the night was being polluted by the presence of

streetlights. Gazing at the scenery from the opposite shore, she

suddenly had this notion.

The battle was finally about to begin.

Conquering enemy cities, setting them ablaze, using them as signal

fires to declare war was part of the elegant traditions of the

battlefield. Now then, what should be chosen as the sacrifices —

While Athena waited for early morning to appear before her, humans

were slowly spreading throughout the harbor. Moored at this place

were massive ships as well as little boats that seemed like they would

be blown away by the slightest wind.

There were castles and towers where the noisy population entered

and left. There were also quite a few mansions.

Of course, there were many human inhabitants. Far exceeding a

thousand, easily in the realm of tens of thousands.

These people were living their lives, crammed in a little corner like

that.

Those boxes with wheels were very conspicuous, running around

making noise everywhere.

Like grains of sands overflowing in a desert. Clumsy tools created for

traversing the earth's surface. Using strange artificial rocks to cover

the ground, for the sake of their own convenience, these humans

constructed roads everywhere as they pleased.

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Athena lamented. All aspects of human beings were completely

impossible to understand, what stupidity—

Like beasts seeking food for survival, only pitiful death awaited those

who failed to defeat their enemies. Or plants, growing across the

wilderness, enduring wind and rain, absorbing sunlight, stoically

accepting all sorts of hardship, suffering, and blessings to survive.

Death took its course naturally.

—That should be the way. One shall release one's authority to bring

silence.

Athena unsealed the [Serpent's Evil Gaze].

The curse that transformed everything within sight into cold hard

stone. The power to bring forth temporary death.

It had been used slightly in the previous battle against Kusanagi

Godou. Now it was time to liberate it completely.

To the goddess, this was a casual decision akin to a human deciding

what to eat for dinner that night. But to the world, the effects were

momentous.

"Hohoho... This shall do. Now, Kusanagi Godou shall finally appreciate

one's exalted spirit."

All sorts of stones began to roll before Athena.

Stone ships, stone roads, stone towers, stone fortresses.

There were also many man-made artificial stones that were used as

building materials. But thanks to Athena's blessing, all had turned into

natural rock.

Of course, these humans were also—

Gathering in this harbor, all humans had been turned into stone.

Even grass and trees were petrified. In short, everything within sight

had become stone without exception.

All the boxes running around had also transformed into stone. With a

single glare from the snake goddess, they all stopped instantly,

becoming motionless stone boxes.

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Overlooking this silent dominion, Athena was satisfied.

"Heavens, Earth, Fire, Water. One's immature destined rival. Knowest

Athena's valor, thou shalt do well to know Athena's power. Preparest

thyself well for one's onslaught and polishest thy sword!"

With bold declarations, she started walking.

Everything shall proceed in this manner. Everything turned into stone

as one awaited Kusanagi Godou's arrival. That foolish god-slayer

should then be able to realize the goddess' will to fight. If he was so

set in his foolish ways that he fails to understand, one would have no

choice but to give up and simply execute him without bestowing any

honor or praise.

Taking quick light steps, Athena walked forth.

In the same situation, Lancelot du Lac would have charged straight

into the enemy camp in the form of tempestuous lightning.

But for Athena — that did not befit the style of the queen who once

ruled over the ancient divine realm.

Openly strolling into the enemy's city, displaying valor and might.

"Preparest thyself, god-slayer. This day shall be the anniversary of

thy death!"

"In short, Athena is recklessly acting as she pleases."

It was at the Heavenly Reverse Halberd's excavation site near the

Kisarazu shore.

Amakasu had spread out a map, and was explaining the situation.

"Almost an hour ago, Athena appeared on Kawasaki's reclaimed land

and started to petrify things recklessly and arbitrarily. Although that

area contains mostly factories and warehouses, nevertheless, it's

completely lost. Reports say that the harbor and the parks, ships and

cars, humans, animals and plants, everything was turned into stone in

little more than ten minutes."

Amakasu sighed at this point.

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"As a divine power after all, the petrification ability doesn't just affect individual objects. Let alone everything within line of sight, even

things within several kilometers along the direction of her gaze will all

turn into stone. This has surpassed RPG boss level enemies, and is

more along the likes of wide-scale map weapons in simulation RPGs."

Even though it was a frivolous analogy, the wisecrack was not enough

to lighten the mood.

"Next, Athena began moving towards the Ukishima junction, entering

the tunnel of the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway. The tunnel interior and

the vehicles have all been petrified."

Amakasu explained, pointing to the map. Taking the Trans-Tokyo Bay

Highway from Kawasaki's Ukishimamachi, it was just a straight road

from Kanagawa to Chiba. As expected of Athena, she seemed to have

figured out the geography before making her move.

"Why is this the only thing that she researches seriously..."

"Even though she is walking here with leisurely strides, she is still a

goddess. The speed is abnormal. According to reconnaissance reports,

she is moving at 20km/h."

Amakasu explained further in response to Godou's comment.

Normal humans with healthy legs generally walked at 5km/h or so. In

comparison, it was really fast.

"The Committee and Kaoru-san have already informed all involved

parties. The surroundings have been sealed off, traffic has been

restricted, and movement through Haneda Airport has been stopped.

The remaining problems are the cars driving along the Trans-Tokyo

Bay Highway and the parking area of the Umihotaru artificial island."

"If that's the case, let's confront her there."

Godou declared swiftly.

Everyone — Amakasu, Liliana, Yuri and Ena focused their gaze on

Godou.

"I don't know if it's lucky or what, but it's near the artificial island of Umihotaru which we passed by yesterday. Will that be fine?"

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"Of course. Leave it to me."

Liliana turned around in response to the last question.

A place they had been to before. That meant it could be reached by a

witch's flight magic. The knight nodded to consent to the suggestion.

"We shouldn't have to wait until Athena reaches Kisarazu, right? If we

confront her along the way, we can prevent further losses."

Depicted on the map was the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway toll route.

Godou explained as he pointed to the parking area on the Umihotaru

artificial island where they had made a short rest stop yesterday.

Using Liliana's flight magic as an emergency means of transport

should allow them to confront Athena there.

"Right now we still don't know how to save the people on Umihotaru

or the ones in the vehicles moving away from the Kisarazu direction.

But we'll try our best."

"Thanks. I still have other tasks to oversee and assign, so I won't be

coming along..."

As expected of Amakasu, he was already used to situations like this.

After quickly summarizing the plans, he took out the Heavenly

Reverse Halberd from his shirt.

"I am returning this. Please take it."

"But will it really be fine for Godou-san to safeguard it under such

conditions? In a battle against Athena..."

Yuri questioned in an elegant tone of voice.

"If a divine artifact of this sort clashes with Athena's divinity, what if some disastrous effect resulted... Ah, of course I am only speculating

without any basis. But somehow it worries me and I could not help

but voice my concerns."

Hearing Yuri's reminder, Amakasu and Godou looked at each other.

If the most adept spirit vision user had "worries," how could they

simply ignore them?

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"If that's the case, why not have Amakasu-san continue holding on to

it? Since Amakasu-san is a ninja, if that witch comes along you can

always find a way to escape?"

Ena made her suggestion.

"Ena and Liliana-san, as well as that young master of Hong Kong's Lu

family. None of us would be able to defeat Amakasu-san in a game of

hide-and-seek. Other than His Majesty, aren't you the best candidate

to keep it safe?"

"Eh, is that so?"

"Yes, even Kaoru-san says that Amakasu-san would be what's called a

master ninja in modern times."

"Please don't call me something like master thief or master samurai!"

Godou stared at Amakasu who seemed quite disgusted.

Perhaps he was even more suited to holding onto the divine artifact?

Ena and Liliana were already as agile as monkeys or swallows.

Amakasu not only surpassed them in those types of techniques but

matched Lu Yinghua who excelled at long distance travel and

thievery. Godou himself had zero confidence that he could run away

from any one of those people mentioned.

"Well, it only applies if the opponent is human. I'm dead if I run into a god, or the various authorities of the Campiones. And that Divine

Ancestor lady is something more than human but less than divine,

isn't the situation rather delicate here!?"

"Well well. Divine Ancestors can't compare to us, it'll be fine."

Not performing jobs that exceeded the compensation of his salary.

Amakasu, who often repeated that line, was feeling extreme anxious.

Nevertheless, Godou brushed him off indifferently.

If there was no problem in ability, then the only issue was a sense of

duty. It felt like Amakasu was just grumbling and sighing as he

complained. Probably.

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"Hmm... If I find myself really in a bind, I will be trying my hardest to flee to Kusanagi-san's location, okay? My salary doesn't include any

hazard pay, you know."

In the end, the Heavenly Reverse Halberd was entrusted to the ninja

despite his mournful declaration.

With that, it was finally time for the battle with Athena.

"Then let's go, Kusanagi Godou. Another battle against Athena awaits

— I shall, no, we shall assist you with all our power."

Godou nodded silently in reply to Liliana's softly spoken words.

The members heading for the battlefield gathered around the silver-

haired knight. Godou and Mariya Yuri, as well as Seishuuin Ena — The

group was surrounded by blue light as they flew into the sky.

Part 2

After flying for slightly more than ten minutes, the spectacular

artificial island of Umihotaru entered into view.

The Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway was a wide multi-laned toll route. As a

parking and rest stop area, Umihotaru also became a tourist

attraction.

Its appearance was like a massive ocean liner floating on the sea.

The first level was a spacious multipurpose plaza with a memorial

hall. The second and third levels were parking lots. The fourth level

contained the observation deck as well as rows of restaurants and

entertainment facilities.

Liliana's flight magic gave off bright light as they flew through the air.

Normally, the sight of such brightness making a landing would have

caused a commotion.

But that worry was irrelevant now. Godou and his companions landed

on the multipurpose space.

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A cursory glance did not find anyone. The situation could be surmised

from the announcer's broadcast:

'All guests please follow directions. We have just been notified that a

large amount of explosives was set up in this facility, and the police

has issued an evacuation request. We hope everyone can follow our

staff's directions and evacuate as quickly as possible —'

A female employee's recorded voice.

It sounded like she was reading with great nervousness. The stiff-

toned announcement continued repeating on a loop.

By now, all the people present should have gathered in the parking

area and sent in turn towards the direction of Kisarazu. Since all the

people had arrived by car, the flow was probably easier to direct

compared to other kinds of facilities.

"Amakasu-san already mentioned the countermeasures at the scene,

right?"

Godou nodded.

Working in all sorts of capacities, the History Compilation Committee

succeeded in sealing off all traffic from the Umihotaru artificial island

to the Kawasaki Ukishima junction. Apparently, everyone had been

redirected towards Kisarazu for safety. Even from the air just now,

Godou and his group could see the cars lining up from Umihotaru to

escape towards Kisarazu.

"I remember there's an observation deck on the top level."

Liliana suddenly spoke.

"Should we stay on guard and watch the Kawasaki direction from

there? We should be prepared for Athena's arrival from a place with

good visibility."

"Good idea. Ena has great vision, so anything strange should be

spotted immediately."

"Right... Even though my spirit vision has nothing to do with normal

vision, it should be easier to sense Athena's divine aura from a wide

open space."

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The two Hime-Miko expressed agreement. There was no reason to

reject the proposal. Godou answered immediately.

"Got it. Then let's follow that plan."

"Understood. Oh... Seishuuin Ena and Mariya Yuri should go up there

first to stand on guard. Kusanagi Godou and I will check out the

situation at the parking area before joining you two."

Liliana gave orders efficiently.

The silver-haired blue knight was being more proactive in delegating

tasks compared to before. Perhaps it was due to the absence of the

one usually in charge of coordinating the group — Erica? Or maybe it

was due to her new role as Grand Chamberlain? Probably both.

"Okay. Then Yuri, let's go."

"Very well. If we spot anything unusual, we will immediately let you

two know by phone."

Yuri and Ena did not object to Liliana's leadership.

I see. Godou found it interesting. In stark contrast with the Italian

duo, the Hime-Miko pair displayed a weaker sense of cohesion. As a

result, the red and blue knights naturally took up the role of Godou's

second-in-command in turn.

The two Hime-Miko took the massive escalator up to the top floor.

As their figures vanished, Liliana immediately grumbled.

"...Finally, just the two of us."

"...Eh?"

Liliana shyly lowered her gaze, her face gone completely red —

She seemed emotionally unstable and muttering something under her

breath.

"Actually, while we were flying I had been wondering how to find

some private time for us. This went unexpectedly well, excellent."

"W-What is this about?"

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Liliana spoke softly as she approached, causing Godou to ask in a

trembling voice. Actually, the current developments were making him

realize "Could it be that!?"

"Please do not pretend to be ignorant, okay? You are the one more

obsessed with 'victory' than anyone. You could not have failed to

consider preparing your weapon before the battle with Athena."

She was certainly right. Knowledge gained from instruction magic only

remained in his mind for about a day or so.

Godou had long forgotten the knowledge of Athena he once had.

"If no one offers knowledge to you, then Verethragna's [Sword]

cannot be formed. In short, that is the situation. Kusanagi Godou."

"W-What situation!?"

Wait a minute. In truth, he already had a basic idea as soon as

Liliana's beautiful face drew near.

But it was very problematic to treat "that sort of thing" as if it was the most natural thing in the world. It was the root cause of why he was

labeled a sex maniac by society. On the other hand, not having a

reliable weapon would be a huge handicap...

Godou was struggling with all sorts of concerns.

"I believe someone needs to accomplish this mission. So let me,

Liliana Kranjcar, do the job. Though I sometimes wonder if I am

abusing my authority as housekeeper when I assume this duty,

nevertheless, I still do not want to relinquish it to other girls —"

The knight's expression remained stern and awe-inspiring as always.

There were many faces to this knight. Sometimes she was

exceptionally adorable. On other occasions she might be trying to

clean up personal disasters with a frantic expression. Other times, she

would display a fairy-like beauty of complete vulnerability.

Currently, she was very apprehensive from a lack of self confidence.

"I believe you should prioritize the one waiting by your side, always

ready when you need me... However, umm, if you ever feel like

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entrusting this duty to another, of course I shall immediately step

down and dismiss myself... I humbly beseech your permission."

She looked very unsure as she spoke.

She probably had little confidence that Godou would pick her. At this

moment, she lacked her usual domineering attitude, and displayed an

extremely adorable side to Godou. This rare expression from Liliana

greatly stimulated Godou's sense of protective desire.

More praiseworthy above all was her determination to go this far in

spite of her embarrassment.

With that thought he instantly stole Liliana's lips.

"Ah..."

"I must fight Athena afterwards. So please, I rely on you."

Godou briefly whispered as their lips came together again.

Tears welled up in Liliana's eyes as she nodded.

"Yes, very well. I will tell you everything to know about that goddess.

Because... Because you must obtain victory."

Again, Godou passionately pressed his lips against the whispering

knight's lips.

Lips were released and came together time and again. Tongues and

saliva tangled and mixed together, becoming one. Throughout the

process, knowledge and feelings were transmitted.

Indeed, Godou had received bonds of magic and intense emotions.

They were a little more than ten minutes late by the time they caught

up to the two Hime-Miko.

After frantically concluding the ritual, Godou and Liliana went up onto

the observation deck. The two Hime-Miko who got there first

immediately greeted them.

"Ah, you finally came. So slow."

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"Were there any problems down there?"

The artificial island of Umihotaru was located in the very center of

Tokyo Bay.

This observation deck on the fifth floor was surrounded by sea on all

sides. Far into the distance, the streets and shores of the two

prefectures Kanagawa and Chiba could be seen.

The view was excellent. This was even a well-known viewing spot for

night scenery.

Ena and Yuri were currently gazing at the road from Kawasaki. This

was the path Athena was expected to arrive from.

"Umm, as feared, it seems like not everyone has evacuated."

"T-That is most correct. In order to protect them we have to put our

best effort. Let us do our best!"

Godou and Liliana responded vaguely to the Hime-Miko's questions.

Still, they had gone to properly check the state of evacuation. Taking

the escalator up from a certain level of the parking area, the situation

below could be easily surveyed.

There were roughly twenty or thirty vehicles remaining.

Even though Umihotaru was a tourist destination, there seemed to be

relatively fewer visitors than usual. Perhaps it was fortunate that it

was still early —before ten in the morning.

"...Isn't there something weird about His Majesty and Liliana-san?"

"...I think you are right. They are both acting unnatural and look kind

of unsettled?"

It was because the two had done something together in secret. Godou

and Liliana pretended to be calm and avoided answering.

"Ah! Now that it is mentioned... Perhaps... Could it be... I knew it!"

"What is it, Yuri? You realized something?"

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"Y-Yes. T-That. Those two must have... Yes, definitely without a doubt."

Yuri was suddenly shocked by a certain realization.

It was not clear whether it was the result of spirit vision or a woman's

intuition... She began whispering into the baffled Ena's ear.

"Then that means the chance for earning credit has been stolen from

Ena and you!? How could that happen, it's so mean!"

"W-With respect to a battle with Athena, this is a necessary step after

all. Please do not say something so presumptuous. B-But still —

Godou-san!"

Yuri appeared to be rationally persuading her outraged friend, as well

as herself.

But clearly trying hard to bear her emotions, Yuri suddenly shouted at

Godou.

"Learning knowledge about Athena, eh? Doing it with Liliana-san and

trying to hide it from us both."

"Umm... Umm, well."

"M-Mariya Yuri. J-Just as you said yourself, this is a necessary ritual

for the battle."

"Liliana-san, please be quiet. I am speaking with Godou-san right

now."

Interrogating Godou who had given a vague answer earlier.

Stopping Liliana from explaining, and sending her silent immediately .

Somehow Yuri had become the center of the situation. It was

unbelievable. She was the extremely conservative type who always

tried to keep out of the spotlight. However, she also had times when

she would suddenly display great power and influence over her

surroundings.

"Regarding that matter, nothing more needs to be said. I also believe,

that it was necessary in preparation for the severe battle ahead. I too,

shall put forth my best effort to support."

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"Uh yeah."

Even though she was calm, Yuri's words were extremely terrifying.

Godou could not help but stand up straight. The fact that he was

about to answer "Yes" very respectfully was a secret.

"By the way, last night's little tryst with Ena-san is the same. You

seem to engage repeatedly in such behavior while trying to hide it

from others? Do not forget Your Highness is the one known as [King].

In my humble opinion, your words and behavior should properly

display a king's dignity and splendor."

"S-Splendor?"

"Yes. Indeed you are equivalent to a tyrant who continually commits

acts of atrocity and willfulness. By the moral standards of ordinary

society, you would probably be described as outrageously indulged in

debauchery. Nevertheless, I still know that you are an honest person

with heroic ideals."

Having spoken thus, Yuri suddenly smiled in a dreamlike manner.

"I believe this is the reason why I love and admire you, and offer my

assistance. Furthermore, I also believe you will never commit acts of

cowardice... Yes, even along the demonic path towards hell, you will

walk your own path with open righteousness."

Godou could not stand things any further.

She was describing him like a kabuki[1] performer "indulged in one's own art."

1. Kabuki: classical Japanese dance-drama, known for stylized drama and elaborate makeup. Kabuki performed by actresses was deemed too erotic and banned in 1629.

Young boys were used next, but were also banned because they too were eligible for prostitution. Thus started the modern all-male kabuki performed by adults where female roles were taken by cross-dressing males. Emphasis in performance was

shifted from dance to drama. However, these male actors too, were available for prostitution to both male and female customers.

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Yuri was acting like a principal wife married from a highborn family?

Faced with the husband's philandering, she generously offered

forgiveness "because it is natural for performers." A wise and virtuous wife who firmly grasped the husband's reins —

"I humbly advise you to show a little restraint in behavior that taints

your honor. Keeping silent for such reasons is most inappropriate...

Now then, is everything prepared in regards to Athena?"

The pressure disappeared all of a sudden.

Yuri was back to being a gentle and refined high class young lady.

Resuming her gentle expression caused the mood to lighten

immediately. Whenever she lectured in the past, her imposing

presence was already extraordinary... But now it was apparent she

had made great progress in both the gentle and the forceful.

(...Hikari also indicated complete helplessness at resisting her elder

sister.)

Godou observed to himself. Perhaps everyone had grown and

matured, having been through so many hellish trials.

Yuri. Liliana. Even Erica was much different compared to their first

encounter. Compared to before, Ena was also entering human society

more frequently.

I too, must be strong —it was time to remind himself.

Feeling battle strength rising from his energy center beneath the

navel, Godou began to feel a sense of excitement.

She arrived? Godou cast his gaze towards Kawasaki.

There was not a single car on the multi-laned highway. This must be

the result of the goddess entering the tunnel section of the Trans-

Tokyo Bay Highway and petrifying all vehicles and passengers along

the way.

Athena's beautiful appearance came into view.

Openly advancing, she seemed like she was casually strolling on an

empty plain.

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Nevertheless, she was moving at exceptional speeds. Even if a human

ran as hard as possible with reckless abandon, they would be

instantly left in the dust.

This was another of Athena and Kusanagi Godou's numerous

reunions.

Part 3

"Fu— all said and done, thy face looketh mighty spirited compared to

last night. But 'tis insufficient. Completely insufficient."

Athena asserted suddenly.

Even though she was in the form of a young girl, her frowning

expression was one which belonged to a haughty queen.

"Thy expression and thy heart, both lack the determination of a

warrior prepared for death on the battlefield. As a god-slaying

warrior, thou art ludicrous."

"Shut up. Stop imposing your Iron Age style of thinking on modern

humans!"

Godou retorted at the goddess standing on the road beneath.

That unbridgeable gap in culture. From the current standoff, it was

clearly the reason why Godou could never build a good rapport with

Athena.

"Regardless, I can't believe you went to such lengths. If you cause

trouble to human society, then I can't remain silent. I will do

everything I can to drive you out of this country."

"Even if thou sayst that, 'tis not enough."

God and god-slayer. The gulf between them was far too wide.

Athena looked up at Godou from the road. Godou looked down at

Athena from the observation deck.

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"Drive out? Fool! Why canst thou utter words like slaughter and wipe

from the face of the earth!? In the face of such a crisis, hast thou not

learnt the determination of a warrior!?"

"I have my own ways of doing things! Whether you are a goddess or

a queen, you have no right to complain!"

The physical distance between them was nothing.

There was a consensus between the two. What separated them was

the distance known as issouku-ittou no ma[2] — the battle could begin

any moment by taking a step forward. That was the situation.

Godou gestured to the girls, giving an order of "stay back."

Liliana, Yuri and Ena immediately obeyed and retreated to the depths

of the observation deck, preparing for changes in the battle situation.

That was their assigned mission.

"By the skills with which I wield spell words, may justice of the world

manifest!"

"Bearers of lingering life, all shall cease activity completely! Ye shall be vanquished here!"

Chanting spell words at the same time, Godou used the [Warrior]

incarnation while Athena unleashed the divine power of [Petrification].

"A cold tombstone that befits ye. That shall be this goddess' blessing

bestowed!"

The snake goddess' song brought forth temporary death.

A change started from under her feet. She had been standing on a

road constructed from thick concrete.

However, the man-made road instantly changed in appearance.

Becoming a rocky plain covered by natural gray stone. No, not only

that — even the ocean was turned into stone.

2. Issouku-ittou no ma(一足一刀の間): literally the distance of "one step and one cut," the most basic and ultimate distance in kendo. It implies that taking a further step will allow you to cut your opponent. Also known as the point of "dead or alive," it means either you or your opponent will be dead or alive beyond that point.

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All the waves on the surface of the surrounding waters of the

Umihotaru artificial island had been frozen into stone.

Liquid seawater had been turned into solid rock. Athena had petrified

all the seawater within a two or three kilometer radius around her.

"Now then, sleep. Simply wait to awaken at dream's end. However,

one shall imprison ye in an eternal dream!"

How ridiculous! This meant defeat was not an option!

Godou began to chant the spell words of the [Sword]. In order to

create the blade of knowledge that could sever Athena's divinity.

"As the one who holds all victory in my hands, I am the strongest.

The mighty and the indomitable one!"

Godou was standing atop Umihotaru's observation deck.

The god-slaying weapons appeared over his head in the form of

spheres of light.

They were like thousands of stars hovering in the night sky. One by

one, the bright spots of light sliced through Athena's divinity, paring

away at her divine power.

"I shall vanquish all evil-doers!"

Godou first used the [Sword]'s spell words to surround the entire

artificial island of Umihotaru.

This parking rest stop area had now become a ship in distress,

floating on a sea of stone. Probably hundreds of people were unable

to seek refuge within the ship? That included Godou himself, Yuri,

Liliana and Ena. Furthermore, quite a fair number of cars must have

been in mid-route, driving towards Kisarazu.

Athena's [Evil Gaze] prohibited them from reaching their destination.

With unshakable willpower, Godou began controlling the [Sword]. The

divine power of petrification from the goddess' eyes began to be cut,

severed, slashed, and pierced by the blades of light surrounding

Umihotaru.

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It truly was defense as solid as rock. Godou's [Sword] had turned the

artificial island of Umihotaru into a fortress.

"Hohoho. Thou art too careless, Kusanagi Godou."

Athena began to smile.

Her lips shaped themselves into an instigating smile, full of mockery.

"Thy [Sword]... Verethragna's god-slaying blade. One hath seen it

once already. Dost thou believe one would not prepare a counter,

knowing one shall face it again!?"

"What did you say...!?"

"Hohoho. Thou shouldst know, the Greek legends of one's [Aegis].

Having slew Medusa, Perseus offered her head as a gift to Goddess

Athena. Athena afixed Medusa's head onto her shield to become the

[Aegis]."

Godou recalled the sculpture of Goddess Athena.

In Greek sculptures, she was often depicted bearing a shield. That

shield was engraved with a design bearing the snake-haired monster

Medusa's likeness. It was said to protect Athena using its magical

power to turn everything into stone.

"For the sake of countering thy [Sword], one hath imitated the classic

story of the [Aegis]. Indeed, Medusa was one of the many names of

this goddess. Having retrieved the Gorgoneion, one's many names

had been reunited once more."

Godou saw it —

Standing behind Athena, another Athena manifested.

He had seen her before. It was the goddess' teenaged appearance

when she matured from her pubescent form.

Pubescent Athena. And mature Athena as an eighteen-year-old

maiden.

Both goddesses were appearing in splendor at the same time!

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" "Only at this moment, have the goddesses been separated once

more." "

" "Namely, Athena and Medusa. Medusa and Athena. Kusanagi Godou,

thou hast severed the divinity of Athena, but what shalt thou do about

Medusa?" "

The two goddesses spoke together softly in perfect unison.

—Oh no! Godou instinctively knew what was about to happen.

In the past, Godou had also done similar things himself. Changing the

[Sword]'s target during battle. This strategy was a direct counter to it.

Athena was intentionally splitting apart her divinity!

" "One is Athena, Goddess representing Darkness. Master of the

Underworld as Queen of the Night." "

" "One is Medusa, Goddess blessing the Land. Master of the Stone

Chamber as Queen of the Earth." "

" "As such, humbly acceptest the curse bestowed by this goddess.

Kindly turnst into an ice-cold corpse and layst thyself in the

Underworld." "

" "As such, humbly acceptest the blessing bestowed by this goddess.

Kindly turnst into an ice-cold statue and returnst thyself to ash and

dust." "

The spell words from the two goddesses attacked Umihotaru.

Athena's [Death]. The grim reaper's curse that dragged everyone

towards the afterlife.

The use of such a contemptible power greatly infuriated Godou. A way

must be found to deal with it. Accelerating the [Sword], he completely

slashed apart the pulse of [Death].

However, the evil gaze of Medusa's [Petrification] could not be

eliminated. No way to defend, no way to counter!

The entire interior and facilities of Umihotaru directly below him were

completely petrified.

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Kusanagi Godou was not going to fall to this petrification. Even

though it was a divine authority, as long as he made use of the power

flowing throughout his body, a Campione's body was able to endure.

But what about everything else?

Amongst them were other living things, vehicles, machinery, plant

life, as well as his companions.

With no way to resist.

"Mariya! Liliana! Seishuuin!"

Godou yelled. He yelled as hard as he could. However, before his

eyes, Mariya had been turned into a beautiful stone sculpture.

Liliana had also turned into a fairy-like stone sculpture.

But there was one sole exception.

"Your Majesty, please! That one —to use as Ena's power —!"

In the instant she was turning into stone, Seishuuin Ena shouted and

reached out with her hand.

Towards Godou. Seeking what Godou possessed, her partner.

"Please, Ama no Murakumo! Go protect Seishuuin!"

Godou ordered the divine sword dwelling in his arm. To reach her in

time no matter what.

The one-meter-long sword manifested in Ena's hand. Its blade was

black as the darkest night. This was the divine Ama no Murakumo no

Tsurugi that appeared in the form of a sword.

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As Godou's partner, the sword was entrusted to its other partner.

Divine possession — the act of bringing down divine might upon one's

body, was an ultimate skill that only Ena could use.

"I shall swing this divine blade like the wind! My body shall be one

with the divine metal of destruction!"

Instantly promoted to a superhuman existence, the Hime-Miko swung

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.

The jet-black blade captured the goddess Medusa's petrification pulse,

absorbing its power, thereby protecting the wielder's body.

"Damn it, it doesn't help the others!"

"Ah, thou lookest plenty more spirited than before, Kusanagi Godou!"

The beautiful goddess pounced upon Godou as he gnashed his teeth.

From the road far below, she made a great leap and flew like a bird,

reaching the observation deck in a single bound.

"Thy courageous pupils burn with fury and vengeance. Now that is a

true warrior, forsooth!"

Athena and Medusa were reunited as one again.

The pubescent girl and the teenager had merged into an eighteen or

nineteen-year-old maiden.

Savagely attacking Godou in this form, she slashed with her hand

repeatedly. Athena's slender hand was deadly as a lance wielded by a

death knight.

"Gwah —ah!"

Godou screamed as the flank of his abdomen was sharply sliced open.

Flesh severed, innards ruptured, blood spewed forth. This was on the

level of incised injuries caused by bladed weapons.

Against such an avatar, the [Sword] was no longer effective. Godou

immediately switched to the [Camel] incarnation, counterattacking

Athena with a sweeping kick!

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"Hohoho. Very well, one's blood boileth, burning inexhaustibly!"

Jumping to evade the kick, the goddess bore a fearless and terrible

smile.

With absolute fury, Godou glared severely at that beautiful face.

Part 4

Verethragna's fourth incarnation, the [Camel].

Using this incarnation required severe injuries beyond a certain level.

In return, it conferred bestial combat abilities, kicking power to send

gods flying, resilient endurance to pain, and exceptional healing.

Godou felt the pain on his flank subsiding as he prepared to continue

the battle.

"Thou hast been hiding such a power! As expected from the authority

usurped from the warlord of the everchanging forms, how marvelous,

a sight to behold!"

Athena guffawed as she began swinging the giant scythe she had

summoned to use as a close combat weapon.

Swinging the scythe with both hands, the sight was reminiscent of the

grim reaper's signature weapon. The blade was black as the darkest

night.

Relying on the [Camel]'s gifts, Godou evaded successfully.

Verethragna's fourth incarnation, the [Camel].

Such combat skills were beyond human ability. Rather, these skills

were swift as a savage beast, controlling his perceptive body, striking

out with kicking attacks.

Kicks that could shatter stone. Nevertheless, Athena managed to

block using the jet-black scythe's shaft.

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Was it successful due to being a god's supernatural weapon, or was it

due to Athena's own divine skills? Struck by the [Camel]'s kick, the

wooden shaft did not shatter but absorbed the impact instead.

"Damn it, didn't work, huh —!"

Godou endured the pain in his flank as he desperately engaged in

close quarter combat.

Evading Athena's swinging scythe, counterattacking with kicks,

avoiding her counters with beast-like movements, attacking in return.

Godou had no knowledge of martial arts.

But a Campione's warrior instincts told him, the [Camel] was

ridiculously strong. Even someone extremely talented as Lu Yinghua

would be knocked out in one hit. It could gain the upper hand over

Doni, and even fight Luo Cuilian to a standstill. That was how it was.

Perseus was the same. And now Athena too.

Their martial arts could be considered the human pinnacle by default.

Few geniuses could reach that divine realm even if they endured pain

and suffering, madly training themselves until they coughed out

blood. Because the level of the divine was completely ridiculous.

Rather, one should express the highest praise towards Doni and the

sworn elder sister who managed to match gods with their human

bodies.

"Nevertheless, Kusanagi Godou."

The goddess swung her scythe with absolute might. Even

Verethragna's [Camel] could not completely stand up to it. Cuts and

incisions multiplied across Godou's body, bleeding away.

As a result, Athena calmly declared:

"Didst thou think that one would compete with thee like a human?

Using mighty authorities to vanquish foes, now that is the way of

one's kind!"

"—!"

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Godou trembled. If that was case, he might not last.

He had rushed in for a battle of close combat because the [Camel]

was only suited to an exchange of physical blows.

That was how he managed to maintain an even battle. However, if

magic was mixed into it —

"O Shadow, submergest."

Athena softly spoke the spell words.

Behind her, a black shadow was squirming like a snake.

"Becomest fangs that tear iron apart, makest haste!"

At the same time, Athena slashed with her scythe from the side!

"Danger, Your Majesty!"

Ena instantly squeezed her way in between.

Ka! The Hime-Miko of the Sword blocked Athena's scythe using Ama

no Murakumo no Tsurugi while Godou desperately lurched sideways to

escape the black fangs.

"...Miko? Dost thou intend to intrude our sacred territory as a lowly

wench?"

The first time —

Athena glanced at Seishuuin Ena for the first time.

She entered the goddess' view for the first time. However, there was

no acknowledgement.

"Desperately throwing thy human life away, merely relying on divine

grace, this pittance of power cannot compare to one's kind. Knowest

thy place."

"Even if it's a god's orders... Ena will not listen!"

Ena raised Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi before her.

She had apparently been waiting for an opportunity to intervene.

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"Kusanagi Godou is my husband! Seishuuin Ena has decided to guard

him with her life. Even though I know you are the queen of the

Mediterranean — Ena will not back down!"

Muttering softly, the Hime-Miko's body was brimming with Ama no

Murakumo no Tsurugi's divine power.

Divine possession. Even on a very small scale, it was a mystic

technique that conferred divine might.

"How's that, Your Majesty? Ena can fight by your side. Surely I will

prove my worth!"

"Ah yes. I definitely can't win this goddess by myself. Thanks."

Godou immediately answered affirmatively.

Humans who could fight alongside Campiones were virtually

nonexistent.

In previous battles against gods, everyone had been providing

support from the back. The only exception was probably Erica when

she was under Verethragna's protection. However, what about Ena

under divine possession—

"By the blessing of bows and arrows, bestow honor upon this great

sword!"

Ena chanted spell words and raised her beloved sword up high.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. The jet-black blade slowly began to

curve. This was a technique for increasing slashing power.

The heretic divine sword that vanquished foreign invaders since

ancient times.

"Sing of death, guide death, dance to death — Become Athena's

servant, the underworld messengers of death!"

Athena also chanted a song of disaster in turn. Behind her, the black

snake resumed its posture.

There was not only one. Their heads, shaped like scythe blades, rose

one after another.

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Two, three, four — a total of nine snakes finally manifested behind

Athena's back. Their bodies were long, reaching 10m or so in length.

These black snakes extended from Athena's back like the petals of a

carnivorous flower, writhing as they moved.

And then the battle resumed. While the goddess advanced,

brandishing her other weapon, the iconic grim reaper's scythe, the

nine black snakes also attacked together.

Baring their fangs, lifting their scythe-shaped heads, seeming as if

they would devour everyone on earth.

"Seishuuin! Don't attack recklessly, let's establish a solid defense

first!"

"Got it! This situation is becoming really bad."

Keenly aware of Godou's voice, Ena instantly replied.

As befitted the Hime-Miko of the Sword, she understood his intentions

from a simple instruction.

Since Athena was holding the upper hand, the correct approach would

be to endure the crisis patiently, waiting for the opportunity to

reverse the tide of battle to their favor!

Godou and Ena cooperated, coordinating with each other to face the

goddess.

Shoulder to shoulder at times, back to back on other occasions —

The [Camel] defended by kicking away Athena's scythe.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi slashed apart the gaping jaws of the

black snakes.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi deflected Athena's scythe.

Godou used the [Camel] to send a black snake flying with a kick from

his heel.

Even though their teamwork was improvised, they coordinated

extraordinarily well.

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Ena did not try to show off and single-mindedly served as a "shield."

Whenever Godou faced an attack he could not handle alone and

showed an opening, the divine sword went to the rescue.

Other than that, it was essentially a defensive battle.

Avoiding overextending themselves to attack Athena. They did not

attack but only took measures relevant for containment.

Ena probably knew very well. Even with divine possession she could

not face Athena in a direct confrontation. But acting as a "shield" was perfectly within her power.

I see — Godou could not help but realize.

Ena was different from Erica who was skilled in weaponry, or Liliana

who always paid close attention to details.

She instinctively understood differences in combat potential between

friend and foe, battle situations, and what measures should be taken,

thereby taking action boldly. This was not conspicuous intelligence but

a natural instinct for victory.

That was Seishuuin Ena's disposition.

Having a similar disposition was likely one of the contributing factors

to Kusanagi Godou slaying a god. She was a companion with similar

sensitivities. In that case, they could likely succeed in producing

amazing teamwork.

"Glorious I am, victorious I am, Ahura[3] grants creation unto me.

Chasing foes as they flee, striking down enemies from the front.

Chant my name for the incantation of victory!"

The tactic of retreating to a temporary defensive formation, then

attack and counterattack.

Godou chanted Verethragna's scripture to raise his magical power. In

order to take back initiative and give Athena a critical blow.

3. Ahura Mazda: a divinity of the Old Iranian religion that was worshiped as the highest deity by Zoroastrianism. Ahura Mazda is the lord of light and wisdom, omniscient but not omnipotent.

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The [White Stallion] would be the most suitable. In their previous

battle, the avatar of fire had been the decisive move that secured

victory.

But that too, had been defended last time. Without sufficient

preparation, using it could waste his biggest trump card. Because

Verethragna's ten incarnations became unavailable for a full day after

each use.

'Come! Now is the time to make use of the Holy Grail. Please freely

vanquish Athena!'

Godou stared wide in surprise.

He could vaguely hear Guinevere's voice — or rather, sense it.

"Fu! Thou art quite a resilient man! Excellent, Kusanagi Godou. Let

one's authority smasheth apart the fortress thou hast constructed!

Miko who knoweth not her place, if thou fearest divine punishment

then begone from this place!"

Athena called out loudly.

Without their noticing, the battlefield had shifted outside Umihotaru.

Due to the snake goddess' curse, the ocean had been petrified.

Standing on waves that originally offered no foothold, Godou and Ena,

as well as Athena were engaged in battle.

All three of possessed supernatural agility. Thanks to leg strength

granted by the [Camel], Godou was able to jump almost 10m without

any running start.

Leaping around as they battled, they had made their way to this

location on the sea.

"Now one composeth the song of winter. All plants shall wither, fruit

shall fall from trees, petals shall scatter. Thus heralds the season of

death and darkness!"

Athena's spell words resounded across the petrified sea.

Ena rubbed Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi against the ground and

held it in a preparatory stance. This divine sword had the ability to

absorb and tear apart all sorts of spells and spirit powers.

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No matter what authority the goddess used, all shall be cleaved for

the sake of Godou's protection —

This determination of hers was readily apparent. Nevertheless, will

she be successful?

A terrifying coldness was emanating from Athena's body. Just the act

of standing near her was chilling to the bone. It was the freezing

temperature of permafrost.

She was the queen of darkness and the underworld. The grim reaper

of grim reapers who disseminated winter and death.

Was Seishuuin Ena capable of subduing such a power with her mortal

body? Could Godou, who was not omnipotent, defend against it?

"As the one who holds all victory in my hands, I am the strongest.

Man and devil — all enemies, all who harbor enmity will be

vanquished!"

But still, it had to be done no matter what — !

Steeling his determination, Godou raised his magical power at this

time.

'In past days, the White Goddess created a vessel. Sacred amongst

the earth mother goddesses, immortality, wisdom, all were poured

forth into it. Hence the Holy Grail was born...'

The voice of Guinevere could definitely be heard.

It was not a transmitted sound but a voice that came from within

Godou, a voice from the heart.

'The artifact known as the Holy Grail, is the vessel for absorbing life

force from the earth mother goddesses. Sometimes from the

carcasses of dead earth mother goddesses, other times from living

goddesses, the Holy Grail devours their life for nourishment...'

This was the spell taught in the earlier encounter.

The [Spell of the Holy Grail] mentioned by Guinevere, was this it?

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'Just by performing a few procedures, no earth mother goddess can

escape the Holy Grail. Furthermore, this sacred treasure currently lies

dormant within Athena...'

What? Godou stared at Athena in surprise.

The goddess of darkness was intending to fully unleash her authority.

It could be felt clearly. Perhaps due to activating the [Spell of the Holy

Grail], her actions could be discerned with clarity.

Swallowed within the body of the beautiful goddess, the object

resembling an urn — that must be the Holy Grail!

How should that divine artifact be revived? It was highly probable that

Athena would attempt countermeasures. All this was clear to Godou.

His mind pondered freely about how he could use that artifact to

swing the battle in his favor.

Why would that kind of object be inside Athena?

Why did Guinevere tell him how to use it?

These questions of doubt swirled into a vortex. However.

The sight of Yuri and Liliana, turned into beautiful statues, surfaced in

his mind. If he did not defeat Athena here they could not be saved.

Ena would likely be sacrificed too.

—Victory must be obtained. For the sake of saving everyone, Athena

must be defeated!

Fighting spirit dispelled all doubts. Godou yelled out at Ena who

answered readily.

"I'll sweat the small stuff later! We must end things here. Seishuuin,

give me that thing!"

"Got it, okay!"

Seeing Godou rush towards Athena, Ena immediately understood.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. She handed her beloved sword to

Godou.

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Godou grabbed the Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi he had lent out and

continued running. The goddess was single-mindedly raising her

divine power. It was like the instant before a dam's rupture.

The nine snakes behind her tried to bite Godou at the same time.

Godou made a forward thrust with Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.

The divine sword, also known as the "Kusanagi Sword," started

moving autonomously, tearing through the black snakes. Watching

from the back, Ena was moving her partner through her thoughts.

"O Messenger of winter! Extendest thy icy-cold hands, and stealest

the the warmth of life!"

In that very instant, Athena also chanted spell words, unleashing her

authority.

A violent blizzard began to blow with the goddess at its center.

It was not just a blizzard. It was wild and riotous wind blowing from

the underworld, bringing temperatures colder than permafrost on the

ground.

Magical wind that froze everything completely on contact, shattering

them directly. This gust of cold air could very well be equivalent to

absolute zero temperature.

Even the exceptionally resilient Campione would not be able to

withstand it.

"Regrets of the White Queen, become my power now!"

Godou yelled out the spell words without hesitation.

This was the incantation for awakening the Holy Grail. The magical

words for absorbing a mother earth goddess' life force.

"—!? What, wherefore art thou using this!?"

In the middle of releasing a blizzard, Athena was surprised.

Her whole body began shining with golden light.

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It was like the faint light of dying fireflies on a midsummer's eve. It

came from the sacred urn buried deep within Athena — the Holy Grail.

A demonic icy blizzard was violently blowing, piling a snowy plain

upon the plain of rock.

At the same time, the golden brightness was rising vertically straight

up. It was like an upright pillar of light.

"Ancient Grail, now is the climax of the battle! Knowest thy place!"

Athena commanded the pillar of light that rose into the clouds.

She had to divert her attention to suppress the Holy Grail's action. If

this light continued to shine, Athena's life force would be rapidly

drained.

The height of the pillar of light shrank by half, but this also meant her

attention was diverted away from controlling the blizzard.

"Please, Seishuuin! Ama no Murakumo!"

Godou swiftly called out.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had the ability to absorb spells and

spirit powers, tearing them apart.

It was likely ineffective when Athena was at full power. However,

aiming at Athena whose concentration had been disrupted by the

sudden crisis, a mere window of ten-odd seconds, the blizzard was

sliced apart.

Ena responded appropriately to Godou's orders.

Standing from behind and directing Ama no Murakumo with her

thoughts, Athena's divine power was severed.

"W-What—?"

Athena was shocked. Successfully cutting apart the blizzard offered

some slight respite.

Godou let go of the divine sword and jumped using the [Camel]'s leg

strength. Leaping high into the air, he unleashed a descending kick. It

was like a shooting star flying down from the heavens —

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A full powered kick from up high, it ended up striking Athena in her

left shoulder!

"Ooh —!?"

Godou could feel from beneath his foot the shattering of the goddess'

shoulder.

Struck by this attack, Athena began spinning like a top and was sent

flying. She must have sustained a fair amount of injury. With that, the

tide of battle should have turned back to Godou's favor!

Determined, Godou made a stance.

The light emitted from Athena's body had almost vanished. The Holy

Grail must have been suppressed once again. In the parlance of sumo

wrestling, this was Nekodamashi.[4]

Simply sleight of hand. Godou did not believe the same tactic could

work again.

Suddenly, Athena's body began to give off light again.

Rising up high as if bursting through the heavens. Such forcefulness

dwarfed the sight just now.

What on earth was happening?

As Godou watched in shock, the radiating brilliance had illuminated

the petrified plains of the sea and Umihotaru with a golden color.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH —!"

Athena screamed out in pain.

4. Nekodamashi(猫騙し): an unconventional sumo wrestling technique when a wrestler claps his hands in front of the opponent's face at the start of the bout, causing the opponent to blink and allowing the instigator to gain an advantage. The technique is a gamble, for miscarriage leaves the wrestler open to attack.

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Part 5

In terms of human history, the following story happened far in the

past.

It must have been over five hundred years since the man known as

the Messiah had died.

In the land now called Europe, there existed a number of Devil Kings.

Those who had slain god and usurped divine authority. The violent

god-slaying warriors whose hearts were consumed by battle. From

the perspective of humanity, having just one of these monsters

appearing in an era was a miracle.

But this was a rare moment in history.

An apocalyptic era when several of these rare characters had

appeared, vying for domination.

All sorts of incredible people were drawn to these Devil Kings. They

worshiped the [Kings], hoping to serve them.

A certain [King] commanded equestrian tribes, incessantly invading

the territory of other nations.

A certain [King] was a pure berserker. He was surrounded by

ferocious barbaric tribes who admired him and became his followers.

A certain [King] was completely devoted to researching magic, hoping

to rule over the demonic magi, priests and astrologers who inhabited

the filthy alleyways of the imperial capital, Rome.

A certain [King] could not be bothered with such things, choosing

instead to wander between nations, displaying mindless valor.

Last of all, a certain [King] had turned the island of Britain into his

own hunting grounds.

The island was in a state of chaos at the time. Though the Roman

Empire originally ruled this land, they had abandoned it, leaving it to

internal strife and constant invasion from neighboring barbarians.

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Legends told of the island's [King] who was a suzerain Roman

general.

Tasked with guarding Britain from barbarian invasions, he was sent

there accompanied by a few troops.

Arriving at the land of his new post, he slew a god and became a

Devil King —

Whenever outsiders invaded the island, he would immediately

intercept and defeat them. But he never slaughtered his enemies

completely, thus allowing them to encroach again. Whenever internal

rebellions occurred, he suppressed them immediately. But always, he

permitted the mastermind to escape, thus sowing the seeds for new

rebellions.

Well, that was basically how things repeated time and again.

The god-slaying [King] loved hunting more than anything, and his

favorite prey were living humans. For the sake of this hobby, all he

cared about was indulging in his pleasure of the hunt on the lands of

Britain.

As a result, ancient Britain was an apocalyptic world. The end of an

era.

While the common people were ravaged by incessant warfare, He

appeared.

He challenged the hunt-loving [King] and obtained victory.

A hero indeed. A brave warrior indeed.

The people of Britain worshiped him, calling him "Artus."

Furthermore, the other [Kings] on the continent began to direct their

attentions towards the hero who had slain a Devil King. The

appearance of a worthy foe. Perhaps, if one could murder him with

one's own hands...

This was the beginning of a series of death matches, not recorded in

any history book.

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Eventually, the name of "Artus" name was slightly altered in

pronunciation to become "Arthur," thus leaving a trail in history and legends.

King who manifests at the end of eras, he was the master of the

Witch Queen Guinevere.

"Guinevere originates from a goddess who fought alongside Master

and Sir Knight. However, Guinevere no longer retains memories of

those times, and can only learn about Master's great accomplishments

through records of the past."

A young blonde beauty was standing on a beach in the Far East.

Naturally, this was Divine Ancestor Guinevere.

"Hmm. However, after a long and difficult search, you — or rather, it

was your previous incarnation who finally found Master's avatar, the

divine sword — discovered those remains."

Standing by Guinevere's side, the knight spoke solemnly.

Lancelot du Lac.

Clad in beautiful white armor, the knight's face was hidden by the

helmet's lowered visor. He held a lance in his hand.

The ancient sword Excalibur which had awakened and was reborn as a

divine lance.

"Furthermore, as the present generation's Guinevere, you have

gradually advanced towards the sacred grounds where Master sleeps.

Look!"

Lancelot pointed at the sea surface with the tip of the lance.

This island kingdom of the Far East had engendered all sorts of

myths, mysteries and legends. Standing on the beach, the white war

god pointed at the sea before him. The sight was as brilliant as the

sun rising over the sea's horizon.

The light from the Holy Grail's absorption of the earth mother

goddess' life force could be seen.

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"The young god-slayer fell into your trap and awakened the Holy Grail

held by Athena. Of course, she will suppress it once again."

"Yes. But before that happens, Guinevere will finish the task

properly!"

Staring at the golden light, she began to summon magical power.

"Graal of legend, I beseech you to let me hear your voice. The

daughter of the White Goddess ignites seven candlesticks. Recall your

past glory."

The image surfacing in her mind was directly converted into magical

energy.

Guinevere wielded magic naturally. Those known as Divine Ancestors,

were temptresses who were able to use magic as freely as their own

limbs.

By the time the spell was complete, the golden light was already quite

faint.

Initially it had been tall enough to reach the clouds, like a pillar of

light. But now, the beam of light was gradually weakening, and

almost could not be seen from this beach. Nevertheless, there was

still enough time.

Before Athena completely suppressed the Grail, Guinevere seized the

opportunity to ascertain the Holy Grail's existence.

"O White Goddess. As the descendant of your divine self, this girl

beseeches you. Bestow upon the sacred cup and the Divine Sword of

Salvation, the link that connects these two vessels once again!"

The "pathway" which connected the life-absorbing Holy Grail to the

planet-slicing divine sword.

Through this invisible "pathway," the life force absorbed from Athena by the Holy Grail was being infused into the divine lance Excalibur

held in Lancelot's hand.

Athena's body must now be emitting many times more light than

before.

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"Hmm. With that, the divine blade can be swung without any

hesitation."

Lancelot pointed the the lance tip towards the heavens.

The platinum-colored blade flashed with a radiant luster.

"Yes. In order to connect the Holy Grail with the divine sword,

Kusanagi-sama's power was used. Things went smoothly as planned,

how reassuring."

The young Campione had only managed to awaken the Holy Grail for

a brief period.

Seizing that disruption, affirming the Grail's existence and

immediately connecting it to Excalibur. This was a mystical technique

only the Witch Queen could perform. A superlative divine skill.

"Hoo... Now it is clear that your decision was correct."

Lancelot said reassuringly to the one under his protection.

Were he not wearing a helmet, a smile would likely be seen on the

war god's face.

"Since these are the ones who can slay this Knight's kin, the gods,

then no scruples will be spared to make use of all weapons to assure

victory... Phrasing it that way should be acceptable, right?"

"Yes, it is true. After all, as a god-slayer, he is a bastard child of the fool Epimetheus!"

Guinevere remarked with derision.

However, her young and beautiful face was trembling from fear.

"But then again, the very fact that they are fools is why they pose

unforeseeable threats to our plans, becoming formidable foes. What a

group of shocking people!"

Lancelot listened to the beloved child's sighs as they walked along the

beach.

Waiting ahead was the white divine horse. It was the divine beast that

served him, the friend who galloped with him across battlefields.

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"Girl, as a heretic this Knight does not know how much more time can

be spent by your side. However, before the day we part, this Knight

swears to lead you to Master's side!"

The inevitable farewell.

This was exactly Guinevere and Lancelot's worry.

Deviating from their proper divine depiction in the myths, whether

due to confusion, insanity or obsession, [Heretic Gods] were

imprisoned on earth.

The war god had given up being the Witch Queen's guardian for the

sake of liberating all his power.

It was still fine for now. Lancelot had become Guinevere's guardian

through bonds forged over a millennium. Nevertheless, there will

come a day when he will be devoured by the distortions of being a

[Heretic God], thus beginning a wayward path, leaving the beloved

child behind.

Regardless, Lancelot mounted his beloved horse, and began galloping

through the air.

"O Ancient steel, become this Knight's strength. Let one become the

blade that sweeps away the saplings of riotous commotion!"

Spell words were chanted in midair to awaken the divine blade.

The essence of the earth powered this sword. The purer the better the

effects.

For obvious reasons, a vast fertile plain would be filled with greater

quantities of essence compared to a barren desert. However, the

most ideal source was the life force inhabiting mother earth

goddesses...

"By the hero's honor, this Knight displays divine might thus!"

Excalibur's white tip produced a platinum-colored sphere of light.

It carried an exceptionally intense brilliance that was as if the sun had

fallen down to earth.

This platinum sun flew across the sky.

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Towards the battlefield. The arena where Goddess Athena and the

young god-slayer were engaged in battle.

"Guh... Ooh —!!"

Goddess Athena was struggling in pain before Godou and Ena.

Her beautiful torso emitted golden light as she rolled about on the

petrified surface of the sea.

Her upper torso was a young girl's, her usual form.

However, below the waist was a snake's body. A very long,

exceptionally long serpentine body. Probably ten-odd meters in

length. The tiny scales covering this snake body were silver-white in

color. Having reverted into a half-human half-snake monstrous form,

Athena was breathing heavily and rolling around in pain.

This unusual appearance was probably the goddess' true form. Both a

beautiful girl and a great serpent at the same time.

Terrifying. A fearsome existence. But also sacred and beautiful. As an

existence like that, she was currently suffering in pain. The serpentine

body gave off golden light as it rolled about. Her beautiful face

distorted, making pitiful and painful noises.

Athena's body shone with golden light.

At first it was as blindingly brilliant as the sun, and impossible to view

straight. But soon it became quite weak and no longer forced others

to divert their gazes. Nevertheless, Godou knew the Holy Grail had

successfully activated inside Athena.

Due to the Holy Grail inside the mother earth goddess —

Her life was being drained in a manner like a leech's blood sucking.

Even though Athena was supposed to have an immortal body, if this

continued she would weaken and die eventually.

"Ooh... Indeed, 'tis yonder maidservant who taught you the mystical

arts to operate the Holy Grail."

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"So you really do know that witch called Guinevere... And you're

enemies with her."

Godou remarked to Athena as she moaned.

He began to reflect on the truth of the entire matter as he watched

the suffering goddess.

"The enemy of my enemy is a friend... That's not right, I must have

been used like a pawn."

"Fu... Didst thou not use yonder maidservant's spell to vanquish this

goddess? Thou soundst as if thou wert also deceived...!"

A fearless smile appeared on the beautiful face of half-human half-

snake Athena.

Then she stopped the thrashing of the serpentine body. The lower

torso, covered in silver-white scales, slowly shortened and

transformed. It became human — a girl's legs.

Athena had regained the form of a young and beautiful girl.

"'Tis not bad. Assaulting an enemy's weakness with merciless

slaughter. 'Tis the warrior's way. Thou hast made slight progress, the

matter shall not be pursued..."

Even though tormented by pain, the goddess showed a calm and

composed smile.

This must be Athena exhibiting her will and spirit as she restored her

snake torso back to human form. Precisely because she was in a

desperate situation, she did not want any pity as a goddess.

"However, as long as one's life remaineth unextinguished, one shall

fight till the very end. Kusanagi Godou! This goddess bestows upon

thee the honor of dueling with Athena in her desperate state!"

"Enough! I don't plan on fighting in such circumstances!"

Godou yelled at the scythe-wielding Athena who was repeating her

usual lines.

"You seem to be under various effects today. Look at your body! If

you can't continue fighting, then settle down!"

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If things continued, even immortal Athena would meet her end. It was

only natural to persuade her to surrender.

However, if she refused to stop fighting then she must be defeated.

This goddess in the form of a young girl, had under fate's mysterious

guidance, encountered Godou many times.

There were no fair and certain methods of victory. Guinevere's true

intentions were also a concern.

However, setting these issues aside, it was imperative to defeat

Athena. If the goddess rampaged further in this situation, let alone

Kisarazu, the entire Kantou region could become petrified.

What should be done? Should he do it? Must he do it like that?

Athena swung her giant scythe mightily as Godou hesitated. In that

very instant —

"Your Majesty, danger! Look up. It's — very dangerous!"

Ena cried out. Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi laid ready in his hand all

along.

Godou was shocked by the sight in the sky. A flying sphere of light,

shining with platinum brilliance, was approaching. The brightness was

like a star crashing down upon the earth's surface.

"Divine Sword of Salvation! Must thou cut one down here, too

impatient for this goddess' death!"

As soon as Athena spoke, it immediately happened.

From the shining platinum-colored star, a beam of light attacked the

petrified ocean surface.

Slicing it apart in one broad stroke. With only a single attack, a deep

trench was carved out of the petrified ocean surface. Roughly ten-odd

meters in length, and likely similar in depth.

What kind of slashing attack was this! Similar to Verethragna's

[Sword], it was a weapon controlled by gods.

They had to get away from that star!

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"You run away first, Seishuuin! I will follow!"

"Yes. Take care!"

The Hime-Miko of the Sword ran swiftly like the wind.

Without carrying any load, her speed should allow her to escape to a

safe place.

However, Godou could not. Rather, there was this lingering need. Ena

had obeyed orders immediately, probably because there was no time

to evaluate the decision.

On the other hand, Athena was —

She was spreading darkness around her. This was the dark protective

shield she used previously to defend against Verethragna's [White

Stallion] — the flames descending from the sun.

The platinum-colored star emitted bright light once more, striking

down at Athena's darkness.

Surprisingly, though the dark shield managed to block the attack, it

was blown away. Previously, the darkness had been able to defend

against the [White Stallion]'s firepower!

...The attack was only the beginning.

The white star flashed with light once again. However, it was not only

one beam this time.

Several, no, dozens of beams of light were sprayed out. Multiple

layers for sure. A deadly sword formation woven from white flashing

lights...!

One beam of light approached Godou's head. Fast as lightning.

However, this extreme speed in turn allowed him to activate

Verethragna's seventh incarnation, the [Raptor].

Having obtained god-like speed, Godou attempted to evade the blade

of light.

All said and done, god-like speed was only akin to lightning. It was

not light speed.

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Luckily, Godou managed to escape the beam from the white star

using the limits of god-like speed. From that it would seem like it was

more of a lightning attack.

There was no time to verify this random notion. Running away was

imperative. Just as he prepared to do so, he saw it.

The multi-sword formation looked as if it was about to slice Athena

into pieces.

The darkness protecting her were all gone. Defenseless. About to be

helplessly sliced apart.

—One reaps what one sows. Godou thought.

Despite all sorts of special circumstances, she was the culprit of the

current crisis. She had brought great disaster to human society. If she

had not done so then she would not be in peril currently.

However, Athena's expression was clearly visible.

The courageous goddess, proudly lifted her head up high to gaze at

the white star.

Had she been faced with a sentence of decapitation, she would

probably show the same expression? She was the one who embraced

the dignity of the ancient matriarch deity and goddess of the divine

realm.

"Damn it... Why, why do you have to make that kind of expression?"

If her life was saved at this point, "battle" would inevitably recur.

It would be best to ignore her. She had turned Yuri, Liliana, and many

other people into stone. Godou was furious at those acts of hers.

However, it was also true that the Holy Grail-whatever was buried in

her body like a bomb —

"This is really forcing me to do unnecessary things!"

Speed like lightning.

Godou fully unleashed god-like speed and charged forward. Towards

the goddess.

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He reached her at the final moment. As multiple swords of light flew

down from the sky, he carried Athena in his arms before they could

slice her apart. Like that, he continued running at full speed.

An instant later, at the spot where Godou and Athena had been...

The shining swords of light raged furiously. Not only did they cut up

the now empty petrified ocean surface into a thousand pieces, they

completely tore it up to leave no trace behind.

With that, the white star had lost its target.

But then the fallen star began to move actively once again. It tried to

seek the escaped prey, like a hunter's hound slowly following its

scent...

Back to the artificial island of Umihotaru, then along the connecting

road towards Kisarazu.

After passing through the Kisarazu junction, he next headed for the

nearby coast.

This was the route taken by Godou as he held Athena in his arms.

However, the white star that had been firing swords of light was still

hovering in midair.

And slowly moving towards the beach where Godou was now located!

"Even with this level of speed, it can still sense our location..."

Godou groaned.

In order to let Athena rest, he had stopped moving at god-like speed.

"'Tis only natural. This star of [Swords] released by the Divine Sword

of Salvation — consumeth the earth's essence for nourishment.

Furthermore, it currently maketh use of the purest essence absorbed

from this goddess through the Holy Grail."

Athena remarked from beside him.

"That [Sword] moveth for the sake of capturing one's life. In that

case, 'tis only natural for it to sense one's location. Because the Holy

Grail hidden within this body is connected to it!"

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The pristine white features of her beautiful face were more deathly

pale than usual. A shadow also lay beneath her eyes.

Athena was clearly wasting away.

Despite being unable to stand, she still glared at the white star

unyieldingly.

"If that's also Guinevere's item, then she must be nearby. Know

where she's at?"

"...What dost thou intend, Kusanagi Godou?"

"Even though your current state is your comeuppance, I am still

partially responsible. I must find Guinevere and stop that [Sword].

Although this means I must act violently, it can't be helped."

Godou explained his plan.

His heart did not hurt. That meant there was still time before the

[Raptor]'s limit.

If he quickly found the location and ran over with god-like speed, then

he should be able to catch that witch.

"What art thou saying? Couldst thou be wishing to save this goddess!"

"You helped me once during that time against Perseus. If you die

before I can return the favor, I'd be very troubled."

Athena shook her head at Godou as he laughed and prepared to

continue explaining his plan.

"Thou art as feeble as the first day... Apparently, thou hast not learnt to discern thy own weaknesses..."

The goddess was nagging with those disapproving comments again.

However, her severe expression gradually subsided.

Like grass of spring swaying gently in the breeze, Athena lightly

exerted a force on her shoulder.

Her gaze, turned towards Godou, was filled with interest and curiosity

as if looking at a favorite piece of treasure or artwork.

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"An interesting suggestion, but alas, not very appropriate. That object

cannot be stopped by such a hasty strategy."

Athena remarked as she turned her gaze to the white star.

It was no longer spraying [Swords]. Most likely because of the god-

like speed exhibited by Godou. Rather than attack rashly and be

evaded, it was better to advance slowly to assure certain annihilation.

"That said, dying from the nefarious schemes of that maidservant,

would be truly vexing. More than anything, more than being unable to

settle our rivalry decisively, 'tis even more vexing."

"You still plan on fighting me..."

"Of course. Otherwise one would not be the goddess Athena. Be that

as it may—"

A mirror suddenly manifested in the goddess' hand.

It was a small hand mirror like the ones used by women for applying

makeup.

"Athena's fate looketh like it shall be blemished. One had intended to

wait for this long life to reach its end in a manner befitting an

immortal. But now one's hand is forced to employ little tricks to

extend life on earth."

Athena spoke as she gazed upon the mirror.

And so the pubescent otherworldly beauty suddenly transformed into

a beautiful statue. Using the mirror, she had turned the snake

goddess Medusa's evil gaze upon herself!

Furthermore, the white star hovering in midair suddenly vanished as

well.

—I see. Godou understood.

The curse of petrification was the power to bring forth temporary

death. Athena had entered a state of false death, temporarily halting

her living activity. As a result, the Holy Grail became unable to absorb

life force. Thus the [Sword] also lost its power source, and could no

longer be sustained.

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In the end, Athena retaliated splendidly against Guinevere's

conspiracy.

However, what should Kusangi Godou do? Divine Ancestor, Athena,

petrified streets and facilities, petrified people, Yuri and Liliana who

had already fallen —

Godou anxiously contemplated his next moves.

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Chapter V

Where This Sword Shall Strike

Part 1

"For this incident, the scale of the affected area is extremely broad.

The work required for the aftermath and information control will

surely be very troublesome."

Sayanomiya Kaoru explained to Godou in her usual clear tone.

This was at a beach within Kisarazu city, the place where Athena had

turned herself into a statue a few hours ago.

"In a certain sense, there's actually a very simple solution. It all

depends on Kusanagi-san's will."

From the beach, there was a clear view of the ocean illuminated

orange by the glow of dusk.

The young beauty's statue stood all alone in this scenery. This

exquisite otherworldly beauty on her face, could not possibly be

reproduced by any living artist. Furthermore, the pubescent but

proudly puffed out chest displayed the goddess' haughtiness. A girl

who acted this way probably did not exist either.

Godou and Kaoru were the only two people bearing witness to this

beautiful statue.

The entire coastal area had already been sealed off by the History

Compilation Committee, preventing ordinary people from entering.

"My will, you say?"

"Yes. We have already confirmed the identity of the deity causing all

these supernatural phenomena. All we need is wait one whole day to

pass, then use the [Sword]'s spell words. Take Ena for example. She,

too, can teach you knowledge about Athena."

"Seishuuin?"

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"I expected that sort of preparation would be necessary. A few

months ago, I ordered all the Hime-Miko to study western deities. Of

course, not every deity, but famous ones like Athena were included of

course."

Kaoru explained cheerfully. How astute of her methods.

Not only as a Hime-Miko, but as an organization leader, she also had

outstanding talents as a strategist.

"Even though Athena had turned everything into stone anywhere from

the reclaimed area in Ukishima across the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway

to the Umihotaru artificial island. However, she did not cause any

destruction, which is actually quite fortunate. As long as Kusanagi-san

uses your authority, and severs Athena's power by sweeping the

[Sword] through the entire area, everything will be restored."

That's right. It was the same for objects, people, as well as animals

and plants.

Including Yuri and Liliana, everything that had been petrified could be

restored.

Currently the History Compilation Committee seemed to be putting all

their efforts into controlling information, and were busy sealing off the

affected areas.

They had already controlled all news and prohibited the media from

making detailed reports. During this time, an abortive incident of toxic

gas leak near Kawasaki was reported... A fabricated news source.

All sorts of methods were employed to publicize it, in preparation for

covering up the ridiculous truth.

The biggest problem now faced was how to handle the families of

petrified victims. No matter what, failing to return home without any

communication would worry friends and family, causing them to take

action.

If there was a way to resolve the incident swiftly, of course it should

be taken.

Personally, Godou wanted to see Yuri and Liliana revived as soon as

possible.

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Nevertheless.

"Due to the current situation, I guess we need Kusanagi-san's

cooperation no matter what. It would be a great help if you could

agree readily. In addition to that, at the same time as saving the

victims of petrification, please slay Athena in her vulnerable stone

form. If another incident could be prevented by striking at its root,

then 'all will be fine.'"

Kaoru's request sent Godou into deep thought.

Right. If he took the opportunity to slay Athena then everything would

be resolved.

However, Godou still stood there staring blankly. Ever since Athena

had turned into a statue, he had been idling on this beach for hours.

That star which had displayed white [Swords] of terrifying power —

Godou believed that the one controlling it, Guinevere, would probably

target Athena again.

This goddess who had brought great disaster to human society, even

if he were to abandon her to her own devices, no one would complain,

right?

Time continued to advance, and night had fallen.

Godou was still idling on the seashore accompanying Athena's statue.

He had just received a call from Amakasu, informing him that Ena

was arriving later to bring something over. He must have realized

Godou was agonizing over something.

However, Amakasu did not try to broach the subject.

Intending to respect a Campione's decision? Or leaving things alone

because he gave up on understanding why Godou was troubled? The

latter seemed more and more unlikely.

Anyway, even Godou himself could not articulate why he felt so

concerned about Athena's matters.

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"She... Is really about to die?"

Guinevere's subterfuge. The matter of the Holy Grail. Athena's various

behavior. After much thought, Godou reached that conclusion.

A beach in early winter. A charming statue enduring against the icy

cold sea breeze.

Even though it had the appearance of an eleven or twelve-year-old

girl, there was no child-like innocence in that face.

Neither powerless nor harmless. She was the queen ruling over the

high heavens, the bountiful earth and the dark underworld. The

exalted goddess.

With death approaching, she had forced herself to pay Godou a visit

—

"Why would she do that..."

Godou could imagine, but he was uncertain if he guessed correctly. It

was probably too difficult to fill the cultural divide through his lone

efforts. Godou instinctively took out his cellphone.

A warrior queen from the Bronze and Iron Age civilizations. What he

needed was someone whose brain was wired the same way.

"Give me a break, I can't possibly talk to that idiot!?"

Amongst all Godou's friends and acquaintances, one particular young

man was clearly furthest away from modern ways of thinking.

The child blessed by heaven in the strange ways of the sword. The

god-slaying knight.

Despite Godou's efforts to forget him, it was strange how that man

always managed to elicit a hostile response. It always felt like

irrelevant concerns. That guy was like a Viking warrior who had

conformed to modern life, but he was not an appropriate conversation

partner. Best to reconsider.

As a result, Godou decided to call someone else.

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He made an international call to Italy. Accounting for the current time

of 6pm with a time difference of eight hours, whether that person had

awakened or not was a rather delicate question —

'What's going on, Godou? You finally couldn't bear the loneliness of

my absence?'

Instantly connected to Erica Blandelli, Godou decided this would count

as rising early for her.

However, she was speaking in a cheerful manner unlike her usual

tone of voice when getting out of bed.

"Even when you're not around, I'm still very lively and not depressed

at all. Don't make up strange stories."

'Of course not, it's not like I'm Lily. I was just imagining how someone

might feel after losing me, an existence much like the sun.'

Godou could only laugh wryly in response to her usual confident and

imposing manner.

"Let's put that aside. We have a real crisis over here."

'......Yes. And it truly seems like a real crisis."

After a brief explanation, Erica commented with indifference.

Furthermore, she even added the following remark calmly:

'Well, whenever you feel lost, know that your heart has already made

its decision. Just do as you feel. I will back you up properly once we

converge later.'

"My heart has already made its decision?"

No way. Being unclear on what to do was the exact reason why he

wanted to talk to someone.

But Erica carried on indifferently.

'The Kusanagi Godou I know, is a person who acts without a

moment's hesitation when he wants to defeat someone. Yes, it is

impossible to imagine someone who grew up in peaceful modern

Japan to have such bold decisiveness.'

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"I am a veritable pacifist and member of modern civilized society.

Stop making these strange descriptions."

'What's wrong? I've always thought, that Godou here, is similar to

those early equestrian tribes enamored with civilization. Acting

civilized during times of peace but completely merciless in battle. And

about to be accustomed to a vagrant life requiring great decisiveness.'

What was Erica trying to say? Godou was getting angry.

If that were true then he was just a selfish inconsiderate person. That

would be a massive amendment to the character description!

'Do you need me to point out all the similarities between you and the

nomadic Mongolian horde that swept through China and various

nations in Europe? In that regard, I'm sure Godou you don't need any

help in understanding..."

"None of your business. But really, when I feel lost my heart has

already decided?"

Even though he completely ignored the criticism that refuted his claim

to being a modern human, he will keep the other piece of advice in

mind.

"When are you coming back?"

'It's not like I require special permission, but I won't be able to board

a plane immediately. With the current situation, I do need to return to

Japan as soon as possible. We will meet up first before seeing how

things go from there. Before that, please fight as you see fit.'

I see. Godou nodded firmly, ending the conversation with Erica.

She could not return immediately to support him, but without any

worry or uneasiness, he will wait for the return of the companion

whom he could trust to watch his back.

In that case, it's really up to myself how to handle things as I see fit

—

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Guided by that notion, Godou's thoughts naturally fell in line. Yuri and

Liliana in that state must be saved. The petrified victims all have to be

rescued no matter what. And then there was Athena, if that

troublesome goddess also had extenuating circumstances...

Abandoning someone for the sake of another, that was not Godou's

style of doing things.

I will adhere to my own principles no matter what.

Part 2

"Sorry you had to wait, Your Majesty!"

Ena arrived on the seashore half an hour after the call to Erica had

ended.

As usual, she was wearing that uniform from that school located

goodness knows where, with the cloth bag slung over her shoulder

carrying a Japanese sword. In addition, she had brought food

contained in convenience store bags, as well as outdoor equipment

such as sleeping bags.

"...You brought all sorts of things."

"I was thinking perhaps we might need to spend the night here just in

case. For the moment, Amakasu-san has also arranged for lodgings

nearby."

Ena lightly put down the luggage on the beach as Godou spoke with

his eyes widened in surprise. Perhaps due to her martial arts training

and running around in the mountains, her legs and back must be

rather strong.

"I was absorbed in my thoughts and it totally did not occur to me.

Thanks and sorry."

"Don't worry about it. Let's make something to eat."

Saying that, Ena immediately went to work gathering fallen twigs

from nearby.

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She seemed to be choosing dry twigs that were not soaked by

seawater. Realizing the Hime-Miko's intentions, Godou also followed

suit.

A few minutes later, Ena used a lighter to start a fire with the twigs

and paper they had gathered.

Thus a campfire was ready. Due to excellent night vision, the lack of

lighting did not pose any inconvenience, but it was still rather chilly.

Having a fire for warmth felt really great.

"Seishuuin doesn't smoke, right?"

"Right. But lighters and matches have all kinds of convenient uses, so

I always keep them on me."

True. They were tools with many uses out in the wild.

Having responded like a child of nature, Ena poured mineral water

bought from the convenience store into an outdoor kettle, and started

boiling the water.

Then she took out two portions of cup noodles.

She placed deep-fried tofu into the noodles in clear broth, and set out

all sorts of deep-fried food.

Deep-fried pork chop sandwiches, BLT sandwiches, hotdogs and

burgers. There were also various flavors of rice balls such as salmon,

tarako salted roe, kombu seaweed and plum. It seemed to be an

assortment of food items appropriately selected from convenience

store shelves.

"Eating outdoors like this is rather delicious."

"Yeah. Cities are so nice, so easy to collect ingredients. If this was the mountains, gathering food would be such a chore."

The two sat around the campfire and began their meal facing each

other.

Since he was rather hungry, Godou didn't bother with manners and

swept everything clean.

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The seaweed in the cup noodles turned out to be surprisingly tasty.

The taste seemed to seep slowly into the depths of his tired body. Ena

was also enjoying her food with great relish.

She seemed like the type who could not resist this kind of junk food.

Godou had heard before that the daughters of the Seishuuin family

were raised as high class ladies back in the village...

"I have done this before, but it seems like it's been a while since I

went to the mountains."

Godou recalled going on trips with friends who loved the outdoors.

Spending time together with Ena was like having a male friend. Even

though Godou had grown more or less accustomed to getting along

with girls, it still felt very exhausting most of the time.

Incredibly, this child of nature did not make him feel the same way.

"Does Your Majesty like visiting the mountains? If that's the case, go

with Ena. Next time Ena plans on climbing the sacred grounds of

Ukokusan. It's a place where even locals do not venture for training

unless they are veterans. A very tough challenge. It's gonna be fun."

"...I think our experience with 'mountains' are on completely different

levels."

The invitation felt like it was no different from a one-way trip to the

afterlife.

Godou smiled wryly at Ena who made her suggestion with complete

carefreeness.

"If we're going, let's pick somewhere less challenging. How about a

mountain more suitable to novices, that even Mariya can make her

way up with effort?"

"...Yuri too?"

"Yeah. If we're going out next time, let's bring Mariya and Liliana

along as well."

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Godou asserted.

With those two's talents, they would not need to subsist on instant

food all the time.

Perhaps they would even prepare exquisite outdoor cuisine. Well,

eating so casually today turned out to be quite pleasant too. However,

it would not be appropriate in situations where Yuri and Liliana were

present.

They would probably say something like prohibiting this kind of

unhealthy food...

Godou recalled Liliana's passionate diatribe against the evils of food

additives and trans fatty acids.

"Let's rescue them tomorrow. You'll help, right? Seishuuin."

"Of course. You can rely on Ena!"

Godou began to ponder as he listened to the upbeat voice of the

Hime-Miko.

He must save those two girls, as well as the others. This was already

established. The remaining problem was how to clear up the whole

story of the troublesome goddess. Ever since night had fallen, he had

been troubled by these questions...

Godou was about to throw trash into the convenience store bag when

he noticed something.

"What's that?"

There was a piece of paper in the bag.

A few words in English were written on it.

The scribbled handwriting read "Watch out. Here comes snatcher!"

"Beware of thief... Something like that? When did that get in here?"

"Sent by a spell — hmm, no, definitely not."

The Hime-Miko stared at the note as she wondered.

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Now that it was mentioned, Erica had used that kind of spell before,

called something like mailing. It was convenient magic that allowed

one to send letters to anyone freely. Ena also sent a letter of

invitation into Godou's desk once, and most likely had used the same

spell.

"The sensation of a spell... Completely cannot be felt. Probably

someone put it in there while Ena was traveling here. Or maybe it was

placed while we were eating..."

"What?"

Godou was completely shocked.

Nevermind Kusanagi Godou, for someone to be able to elude

Seishuuin Ena's senses —

Who could possibly have such abilities? For the Hime-Miko of the

Sword with her beast-like sensitivity to have failed to detect anything.

Truly a divine level of skill!

Ena also seemed taken aback. She stared at the note with a pouting

expression.

Leaving that aside for now, what did they have to "beware" of?

Godou suddenly remembered. He had almost completely forgot that

thing.

He took out his cellphone and called Amakasu. It might have been

lost already.

Worried thoughts occupied Godou for minutes as he waited —

"No no. Shaking off stalkers sure is tough. Right, looks like I have a

call, is something up?"

"Amakasu-san! You're okay!?"

Godou was reassured to hear Amakasu's voice just as he was

worrying.

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The special agent of the History Compilation Committee had suddenly

appeared on the beach in his usual sloppy suit, and was walking over.

As befitted the ninja, astutely appearing and disappearing without

warning.

"Could it be, that witch Guinevere showed up?"

"An excellent question, Ena-san. That presence just now really was

that lady. I had to use every single spell and technique at my

disposal, and ran with my life to get here."

Amakasu responded to Ena's question with a haggard face.

Then he took out the Heavenly Reverse Halberd from the pocket of his

suit — the divine artifact.

"I knew it, this thing should probably stay with Kusanagi-san... I think running away from magi along the likes of Divine Ancestors is too

much of a burden for me..."

"No. I'm really sorry, but I will continue relying on you for now."

Godou was very worried and felt sorry for forcing a troublesome task

on Amakasu.

However, he bowed his head.

"Didn't Mariya say before, better not let this piece of stone get near

Athena? Even though it seems okay currently while she has turned

into stone, but it might not last."

"...What do you mean?"

"...Your Majesty, I knew it."

Amakasu looked very surprise, but it was Ena who deduced the

situation.

Godou explained assertively to the two of them, as well as to petrified

Athena.

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"Obviously I will save everyone who has been petrified, but I have to

end things decisively with her — I don't know in what manner, but

there will be a definitive conclusion for sure. Thus I was thinking, if it

results in another severe disaster... My humble condolences."

The great goddess had said that her fate as Athena had been

blemished.

Godou felt it was hyperbole. Be that as it may, Godou was also

someone who could barely be classified as civilized. Really, just

barely.

Amakasu went "oh my, things will really get hairy" and looked up at the sky, then bowed to express agreement.

Ena generously nodded with total acceptance.

Nevertheless, Godou really felt like scratching his head in revulsion at

his declaration, so typical of Devil King Campiones.

"That said, how should we proceed specifically?"

It was now late at night.

Having contemplated all sorts of things, Godou muttered to himself.

"Athena's petrification can be released with my sword, but the

problem is the Holy Grail..."

He was currently in a room on the second floor of a local residence

along the seashore. The lodgings Amakasu had arranged. The next

day will be full of trials and it was a blessing to be able to get a good

night's rest.

This house was built on a spot that had offered a wide view of the

coast.

If Athena made a move they would immediately be able to react.

Godou's window faced the ocean. The statue of the goddess continued

to stand majestically on the winter beach. Local policemen and

Committee employees had already sealed off the area.

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It was already decided that Godou would be alerted by cellphone if

anything out of ordinary was observed.

As a side note, the entire house had been taken for the convenience

of police-related personnel. There had been other families who

wanted to arrange for lodgings, but they were turned away with

random excuses.

The only one in this room was Kusanagi Godou.

It was already eleven o'clock at night. However, he still had no idea

how to "come to a conclusion" with Athena... Without switching on the light, Godou stood at the window, continuing to contemplate.

Light shone in through the window from the moon and the stars. It

was roughly as bright as streetlights. Due to Godou's excellent night

vision, it was more than enough.

Kacha. The door handle turned and someone walked in.

"Still up, Your Majesty?"

It was Ena. But Godou was shocked by what she was wearing.

"What's going on, Seishuuin, why do you look like that?"

"Uh yeah. It was time to sleep so I changed."

In a rare moment, Ena was speaking hesitantly.

Instead of her usual school uniform, she was dressed as a miko with a

pure white top and a bright red hakama.

Now that he recalled, he had seen Ena's miko appearance briefly

during the battle against the Great Sage Equaling Heaven.

"You wear a miko outfit instead of pajamas?"

Isn't that kind of blasphemous... Godou averted his gaze as he spoke.

This caused the premier Hime-Miko to explain frantically.

"It's not always like this. But it'd be embarrassing to visit Your

Majesty in dirty clothes. Without any other clothing on hand, I had no

choice."

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"What are you talking about? Don't you just wear the same uniform

all the time?"

"Yeah... But tonight, we are having an affair."

Did he just hear alien language? What was that girl Ena trying to say?

Godou instantly denied reality. But of course, things would not be

settled that easily.

"On this very special night, I was thinking I should clean up a bit first?

Ah, Your Majesty, the bed has been prepared. T-Then, I will be in

your care."

Ena showed a shy expression as she made a shocking statement.

Furthermore, she went over to the prepared bedding and sat down

very formally in seiza.[1]

"W-W-W-W-W-What kind of complete nonsense are you talking about!

It makes no sense at all!"

"On the contrary."

Ena was no longer shy but bore a resolute expression. Her eyes were

filled with clear determination. Bathed under moonlight, a white luster

could be seen on her prim and proper beautiful face.

"Your Majesty plans on fighting Athena again tomorrow, right? Rather

than slay Athena in her stone form."

That was correct. It was the only way to do things for a proper

conclusion.

A face to face duel. To determine the victor.

Of course there were other options. The Holy Grail which had robbed

Athena of her immortality. If a way could be found to remove and

disable it...

But taking into account what Athena truly wished for, this was it.

1. Seiza(正座): traditional formal Japanese sitting posture.

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"Your Majesty has been wavering all this time, right? And disaster will

again descend upon many people. But everything can be solved —

yes, everything will be solved. In that case, it's time for Ena to display

some determination."

Godou was shocked. Once again, he was reminded of how adorable

Ena could be.

Even though he had been unaware all along, this Hime-Miko was a

raven-haired Yamato Nadeshiko rivaling Yuri, as well as being a very

attractive girl.

This truth was now suddenly presented before him

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Part 3

"Ena originally planned to teach you all the knowledge about Athena.

Tonight, with Your Majesty — umm, I was thinking there should be all

kinds of things that needed to be done. Your Majesty is risking your

life in a battle against a [Heretic God], so apart from offering

knowledge there must be something else. That's what Ena was

thinking..."

"A-Apart from knowledge!?"

Before he made his poignant outburst, Godou was already looking for

an escape route.

Ena must surely be talking casually. Perhaps all she wanted to do was

play games through the night.

Probably Uno or Hanafuda cards. Or maybe card games like

Concentration[2] or Sevens.[3]

"Even though Your Majesty is very strong, there's still a chance of

death... So before Your Majesty sets off for battle, Ena's body will

accompany Your Majesty for the night, to help restore your energy.

Perhaps in case of the worst outcome, Your Majesty's lineage can be

preserved?"

Her intentions were explained rather concretely.

In other words, she had not misunderstood the meaning of "affair" in any way!

"P-Please calm down, Seishuuin. Let's just sit over there first."

"I've been sitting down calmly from the start."

"T-Then sit in seiza. Sit properly and listen seriously to me."

"I'm already sitting in seiza. Ena has been sitting seriously all this

time. It's Your Majesty who needs to talk seriously."

2. Concentration: a card game where the object is to find pairs from overturned cards on the table.

3. Sevens: a card game where players have to form sequences going up or down in suit from the sevens.

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All avenues of escape had been blocked. Was there no way left other

than a frontal confrontation?

Godou crossed his legs and sat down before Ena.

"Well, how should I put it... I'm very grateful for your offer, but I

believe that kind of behavior is only suitable for married couples. Is

that clear?"

He calmly questioned her in earnest.

In any situation, there was no weapon more powerful than righteous

sincerity. Probably.

"I've already said it before. Ena is fine being a woman of convenience.

I'm not concerned with formalities. Besides, hasn't Your Majesty

promised already? To have Ena by your side always."

Ena objected with a pout. It was exactly as she described.

It was no longer an issue of sincerity but a matter of mental

preparedness.

"Ah, but then again, Your Majesty did tell Ena before. Don't say

anything like 'being a convenient woman is fine' again. Sorry, Ena

forgot."

Isn't this complete daydreaming?

Ena seemed to have recalled the scene that made her think that.

Dejectedly, she lowered her head. Head bowed, she began to hesitate

as she muttered to herself.

"Still... Ena wants to be Your Majesty's bride."

A direct expression of her wish.

She displayed a shyness which made her usual unbelievable behavior

seem like a sham.

Faced with Ena's current state, Godou began to feel his control

slipping. He would not be able to hold out for long. This was bad.

"After all, I still want to dress in white all over and have some kind of ceremony... Can I?"

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"N-N-N-N-No, of course not. Having said no, umm, rather, I should

say instead, that kind of thing is too early for us!"

Finding Ena far too adorable, Godou diverted his gaze and desperately

tried to explain.

If he had a little more experience in dealing with these situations,

perhaps he could stay cool. But now he was reaching his limit. Being

alone with a girl like this.

Furthermore, they had unwittingly sat on the same bedding.

Her body could be touched by a simple reach of the hand. This kind of

distance was anything but reassuring.

Had it been Erica, Godou would usually be on high alert to prevent the

mood from building up to such levels (though there were times when

he failed). But this time Ena had made a surprise attack, completely

ruining his usual precautions.

"Come on... Why doesn't Your Majesty want Ena to stay with you for

the night?"

I beg you, please don't plead in such a cute manner.

Even though Godou wanted to loudly reject her, it would be

equivalent to admitting defeat. It would be disclosing the fact that he

was about to succumb.

"Ah, I see. Okay."

Ena suddenly stopped trying to be difficult and lowered her gaze

again.

Looking down — she was staring at the blanket she was fiddling with

her index finger.

"A girl like Ena, is not that cute and not very feminine, and neither

very dignified nor virtuous. Ena can't possibly have that kind of

personality, it can't be helped. And Your Majesty already has so many

cute girls around you..."

"Don't say nonsense, it's nothing like that."

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Faced with Ena's dejection, Godou instinctively reached out with his

hand without thinking.

He placed his hand over her pristine white hand that was fiddling with

the blanket, and held it tightly.

"You are a beautiful and cute girl. It's me who's not worthy."

Godou spoke sincerely as he gazed into Ena's face and eyes.

"Really?"

"Hoho, really. Believe me."

"Really... If Your Majesty says so, then Ena will not doubt."

The Hime-Miko of the Sword finally smiled again, and slowly closed

her eyes.

Tilting her face up invitingly. The message was obvious.

—No choice but to make myself clear. Godou quietly pondered.

It was true that he simply lacked the courage to cross a certain

boundary. With Erica and Yuri, as well as Liliana. It was also true that

the thoughts of other girls were surfacing in his mind.

However, Ena's sincere offering of her heart finally made him realize.

Why was he still unable to act decisively? The reason? The violent

desire entrenched in the deepest reaches of his heart.

Godou nodded. I have to do what I have decided.

Drawing near Ena's face, he took her by the lips.

Their lips pressed together, intimately caressing each other, melding

their senses into one.

"S-So, Your Majesty, please forgive Ena for any failings in serving

you..."

After a long kiss, Ena's lips released and whispered softly.

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Her meekness made her usual boldness seem unreal. However, as the

Hime-Miko tried to loosen the collar of her white garment, Godou

shook his head once again.

"This is enough. It's still too early for that."

"Eh eh? Ena isn't cute enough after all..."

"No, it's not like that. How should I say it... I will... you— Could you wait for the time when I finally have the ability to shoulder all the

hardship suffered by you girls?"

Godou pleaded quietly. His heart was no longer in disarray.

He was a man shouldering the lives of the girls close to him. The

worst kind of man, one like a devil.

Yet at times like this, he had to rely on their sacrifices in order to

fight.

Facing the absurd gods, fighting them on humanity's behalf.

Furthermore, the girls not only offered their lives but even the purity

of their thoughts and lifestyle to Kusanagi Godou, displaying great will

and spirit to accommodate him.

By now, Godou was strongly persuading himself.

"Even though I'm still a student, but anyway, the problem is, I feel

like I'm not worthy enough for you to go that far for me. I — don't

want to indulge myself in that area. I cannot lose to selfish desire."

"Cannot... lose?"

"Hoho, sorry. I'm very grateful for your kind offer, but listen, I'm

going to say some obstinate things."

He was in intimate contact with both Ena's body and mind.

Who knew if other girls might join in the future? In that case, Godou's

everyday life could turn into a paradise for his own personal pleasure.

However, indulgence in such pleasures could easily defang himself.

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For the sake of battle, resolute will to face all trials and tribulations

was indispensable —

It could easily be eroded.

That would be unacceptable. Fights with gods or trouble-making Devil

Kings could arrive at any opportunity.

"If I accepted everything you offered, I probably wouldn't have

survived my battles to this day. It's still too early. I must wait until I

am worthy, only then can I calmly accept such things."

All was for the sake of battle. For victory.

This attractive girl's courtship came as a total surprise.

However, I have to finish tasks of higher priority first. Thus I will be

completely obstinate.

Well, perhaps there existed people who say stuff like "having

someone to protect might make me stronger." People who could

make themselves sound very justified. I don't care about such

justifications.

My enemies are not opponents that could be defeated by that level of

strength.

The man who completely ignored ordinary life in society, only seeking

to train himself to attain the level to slice gods apart.

The goddess who went so far as to bring ruin to the world simply for

the sake of defeating Kusanagi Godou.

That was the sort of enemies Godou had.

"...I see. Well then, no other way. Ena will wait, Your Majesty."

No matter how you worded it, this was a fool's obstinacy. Why would

Ena smile and answer so confidently?

"That kind of thing, I can understand. Ena also goes into the

mountains frequently, because my power cannot be used unless the

body and mind are purified. Even though it gets quite bad, and

sometimes it's quite lonely."

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The mystical technique of divine possession was an ultimate skill for

obtaining divine spirit and power. This had been explained before.

The body and mind had to be pure in order to use the technique.

Letting deep mountain air diffuse through the internal organs,

reaching a mental realm of absolute peace. These were said to be the

user's duties.

They could not permit themselves to be contaminated by the

mundane world's filth.

Hence Ena was obliged to enter sacred mountains frequently to purify

herself. Apparently she never stayed at the village for more than a

month at a time. This was not a life that any teenaged girl should

lead.

Nevertheless, she had chosen this lifestyle by her own will.

"Please rest assured. After all, Ena is still a daughter from a family of warriors."

The daughter of the House of Seishuuin, the Hime-Miko of the Sword.

Her ancestors included daimyo during the Warring States era,

explained the Yamato Nadeshiko cheerfully.

"But there were also husbands who went off to war and didn't return

for a decade. Waiting for such long durations takes great resolution.

So if I look at it that way, I will definitely be okay."

She was smiling staunchly as usual. Certain that Godou would one

day reciprocate her feelings, Ena spoke:

"T-Therefore. Waiting is completely fine."

She expressed such a wish.

"Anyway, l-let's k-kiss first, okay? If so, I still want more."

With her eyes looking up at Godou, Ena was as adorable as a young

child.

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"If you want to fight Athena, the [Sword] is essential after all? Also...

It's very sad. Previously, I could still bear it, but I really want to

spend more time with Your Majesty, and have more contact with each

other."

Furthermore, her eyes glistened with tears as she pleaded. Damn.

Godou cursed at himself. Faced with such words, how much further

could he endure?!

He proceeded to kiss Ena silently.

No, it was not that gentle. He forcefully sealed her lips.

"Ah...mmm. Your Majesty, so forceful... Please be more gentle..."

Even though she pleaded softly, no, denied. It cannot stop.

Godou savagely drew Ena into his arms and leaned forward all the

way.

He pressed his lips upon the Hime-Miko's soft and gentle lips.

Everything she released out of her mouth belongs to me — her

breath, saliva, words, everything was mine. A violent kiss.

Beneath one pair of lips, another pair was trembling.

This subtle movement further excited Godou.

Gasping for air, Ena's lips let go. But it was not allowed. Godou

opened his mouth even wider and completely sealed the Hime-Miko's

lips.

The sounds of their panting mixed together within their mouths, while

saliva also mingled as one.

"Mmm... Your Majesty is so bad. Ena can't breath..."

Ena tearfully whispered.

Nevertheless, Ena did not try to escape from Godou's kiss. Instead

she tightly embraced Godou as she pressed her adorable lips against

his, wordlessly expressing more of her joyful emotions.

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Hence Godou had nothing to worry about.

He forced his tongue into Ena's mouth, searching for her tongue.

Found it.

Putting forth all his strength, he used his tongue to subdue Ena's

tongue that was wriggling like a leech.

Twisting, turning and tangling. Their tongues clicked as they licked

over and over again. Then boldly teased each other.

"Mmmhmm. Your Majesty, don't... do... do that anymore."

She was already pleading.

This rare display of Ena's willfulness. It meant things had to be kicked

up a notch.

Godou kissed passionately as he held the premier Hime-Miko's hand,

squeezing tightly with great force, as if trying to affirm her existence.

She immediately responded and held him tightly in turn.

Right hand held left hand.

Trying to establish further connections in addition to the mouths, they

became one through natural thoughts and feelings.

—It was at this time, that Godou's heart felt like it was

galloping/rushing/speeding away.

Godou possessed the sword that was Verethragna's final incarnation,

the [Warrior] that wielded the blade of wisdom. The heretical sword of

spell words that sliced apart ancient deities.

For the sake of preparing this sword, he was about to forge a link of

wizardry with Ena.

Nevertheless, there was another sword.

Indeed. Kusanagi Godou's swords were two in number.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. Whether Seishuuin Ena or Kusanagi

Godou, the divine sword that acted as their "partner."

Sword and sword. Double swords. Two users.

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In addition, there was a new weapon —

Did this divine revelation come from a Campione's instincts? Or did it

come from Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi?

It did not matter either way. For the sake of battle, anything and

everything available will be used.

"Seishuuin. Let's adjust our plan slightly. Now our sword — we will

see if we can draw out new possibilities from that guy."

"Yes... To obtain a new power. Your Majesty and Ena together."

Ena immediately nodded to Godou's soft whispers.

All said and done, she was the miko intimately connected to Ama no

Murakumo no Tsurugi. She, too, had received the divine revelation

about the sword.

Part 4

"Wandering without aim, clearing up when the moon is seen, whence

shall be my heart's final destination?"

Godou recalled his thoughts as he listened to Ena's spell words.

The spell used by Divine Ancestor Guinevere to instruct him, had

already been explained by Liliana before she was petrified. It was

most likely imparted via [Mystical Indoctrination].

[Instruction] only managed to teach knowledge and could not impart

magical skills.

For spellcasting, it was said that aspects of feelings and mental

preparation were more important than the knowledge component.

However, [Mystical Indoctrination] did not carry such a restriction.

It was super high level magic that even the silver-haired knight was

unable to perform. The spell was also useless unless performed on

someone who had already developed magical power. Furthermore,

everything would be forgotten after a few days.

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"Ready... Let's start again."

As Ena whispered, Godou approached and kissed her again.

In the room of this old building. Two people sat on one blanket.

Despite the same location, a new and different ritual was about to

start.

Godou began to speak as he pressed his and Ena's lips together.

"The Holy Grail is the artifact created by Divine Ancestor Guinevere

when she was still a goddess."

The spell the Hime-Miko just performed was [Shared Spiritual

Perception].

It was not the usual instruction spell for passing along knowledge. By

evoking impressions and subtle feelings in the heart, it was a spell

that allowed thoughts and emotions to be shared.

A spell achieved by multiple spellcasters — it was said to have been

used during magical rituals.

A spell that failed to take form if the spellcasters' thoughts were in

disarray.

"This artifact is like the medallion Erica once entrusted to me for

safekeeping. Impossible to damage or destroy. As if embodying the

truth of the world."

Then Godou began recounting the Holy Grail's origins.

God-slayer and Hime-Miko of the Sword. Both were the users of Ama

no Murakumo no Tsurugi. In order to confirm the sword's target, they

spoke to and kissed each other.

Since the [Spell of the Holy Grail] was still in memory, it could be

taught and imparted.

"Back when Guinevere was a goddess, the act of creating that

astounding artifact apparently consumed the majority of her life. An

immortal mother earth goddess. And then she truly died, offering the

remainder of her life to the Holy Grail as her dying wish."

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"No way eh... Even deities are powerless against that divine

artifact..."

Respite for conversation, an opportunity to breathe. Ena busily pecked

at Godou's lips.

Unlike the kissing earlier, she went about gently. However, or perhaps

because having experienced bold intimate contact earlier, this felt

fresh and delightful instead. In this manner, she calmly applied

wizardry to the Campione.

"Consequentially, as the child of the Grail blessed by heaven,

Guinevere is the most intimate being born from it. I learned from her

that the Holy Grail is a device for absorbing the life force of mother

earth goddesses. And also the method of activating that power."

Robbing a mother earth goddess' life, storing it as magical power.

In short, that was the Holy Grail's sole function. The white star — the

one that created [Swords] must have been some other divine power.

"The vessel itself, cannot be damaged even if cut..."

"Right. But it might be possible to specifically sever the activated

ability..."

Having confirmed the target, the two of them motionlessly gazed at

each other before resuming contact with a light kiss.

In order to exploit Kusanagi Godou, Divine Ancestor Guinevere had

given him knowledge and spellcraft.

Since she had forced them on him without permission in the first

place, Godou was perfectly justified in using them for his own goals.

So let me use them freely as I please.

The problem was whether it will work or not.

Will he be able to prepare properly and sever the Grail's function?

After severing it, will he obtain the desired result? But no matter

what, he had to try —

"Then, let's go. Your Majesty and Ena, the two of us will use Ama no

Murakumo together... Hold onto this sensation..."

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Ena murmured and slid her tongue inside.

Entering Godou's mouth with trepidation, she helplessly moved about

with weak movements, searching for the other tongue.

It was only during such occasions that Ena truly cowered.

Godou laughed wryly and fiercely intercepted Ena's incoming tongue,

sucking on it passionately.

"Ah!? I-I still haven't gotten used to this... Stop being such a bully..."

But Ena did not flee. So there was no cause for concern.

Frolicking with Ena's tongue to his heart's content, Godou then

whispered in Ena's ear.

"This way... Come this way a bit. It's very hard to act in concert

otherwise."

"Ah... Mmm, mmm. Got it, but don't bully me too much..."

Godou proceeded to bite her earlobe lightly and began to lick. Ena's

breathing became progressively feeble.

She laughed and slightly adjusted her breathing.

Then she leaned in even closer. Even though Godou was sitting cross-

legged, Ena simply bent down and planted herself onto him.

She then wrapped her legs around Godou.

In this manner, the two of them embraced each other more tightly

together, face to face.

Ena's body, which had always been so energetic, was now devoid of

vigor as she tightly entrusted the weight of her upper torso to Godou,

leaning against him.

Pressed under Ena's amazingly voluptuous bosom, Godou fully

experienced that sense of weight which conveyed their intimate

embrace.

Her sweltering body was very supple with extremely smooth skin.

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Godou enjoyed the sensations of Ena's entire body as he moved his

hands to her back, tightly embracing her.

"Fuah... T-Tighter, hold me tighter. Even closer."

Ena pleaded as she seemed to frown painfully.

So the stronger the sense of bondage, the greater her enjoyment?

Just as she wished, Godou embraced her tightly with all his strength.

Held in his arms, Ena looked like she was smiling with intoxicated

happiness.

"Ah... Your Majesty's heart... I can hear it beating so loudly."

"Isn't it the same for you? Seems like you're busy panting away."

Held tightly together, they could feel the beating in each other's

chest. Then they gazed into each other's eyes, smiling at each other

and kissed again.

The two were sitting together cross-legged, entangled with each

other, endlessly exchanging kisses.

As more magical connections were made, Godou's excitement was

transmitted to Ena as Ena's intoxication passed onto Godou.

"Your Majesty, did you know? Ena can sense Ama no Murakumo

sleeping in Your Majesty's body...?"

As Ena whispered during the brief respite between kisses, Godou

nodded.

The Hime-Miko of the Sword was the divine sword's previous wielder.

Compared to the current wielder, she was better able to sense its

existence and skillfully wield it.

Ena had sensed Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi hidden in Godou's right

arm. The feeling was transmitted.

"Ama no Murakumo... Please conjure the image of being wielded by

two people at once. Ena's hand, overlapping with His Majesty's

hand... Raised up high..."

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This time, she slurred her words as their lips came together while

they kissed.

The image depicted in Ena's heart was transmitted. Then stored into

the sheathed Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. The Hime-Miko's pristine

white hand grasping the sword's hilt. Godou also imagined it.

Ena's hand holding the divine sword, covered by his own hand and

held even tighter.

"Ah... Don't do that, Your Majesty... It's going to hurt, please be more gentle, slowly... I beg you..."

Ena expressed her pain drowsily. If he did not proceed with greater

caution —

For the sake of preventing the adorable maiden from suffering, Godou

began to concentrate as hard as he could.

Reaching for the delicate hand with which she prided in her

swordsmanship, Godou slowly placed his hand over her palm, then

intertwined his fingers with those long, slender and pale fingers of

hers.

Even though the action was taking place within their hearts, somehow

Godou could feel the smoothness of Ena's sweat-moistened skin.

Godou gently held her hand as he savored that exceptionally tender

sensation.

"Yes like that... Slowly... Ah, a little off..."

The two controlled the hands imagined in their hearts in concert.

The overlapping fingers were slightly off, so they carefully shifted and

repositioned. Because they were not accustomed to this task, it was

similar to feeling their way through absolute darkness.

"Ooh... Like that... Okay... Ah, no good, too much force... It strayed

again... Mmm, mmm, right, over here is... Good, that's the way—!"

Finally, Godou and Ena were able to grab a hold of Ama no Murakumo

in its scabbard.

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Ena tearfully smiled at Godou, having finally accomplished the task so

clumsily. She must be troubled by this unfamiliar type of cooperative

action.

Overcome with tender affection, Godou once again stole her lips.

This time, Ena's tongue greeted him with initiative. She must have

felt it abundantly.

Mixed together, the viscous saliva moistened the corners of their

mouths. Thoughts and feelings melded into one.

Let's get this over with in one go. A mental image appeared of the

two of them drawing Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi out from its

scabbard together.

Unsheathing the sword and swinging it together in perfect unison.

Godou and Ena forged new and deeper bonds with each other through

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.

Immediately, their surroundings were met with drastic change. Their

room had been completely surrounded by fire.

Part 5

Illuminated by crimson glow, the room in the residence was entirely

surrounded by burning flames.

Had this been an actual fire, it would have burned the entire building

to the ground. Abnormally scorching hot. However, Godou and Ena

were the only ones not swallowed by the tongues of fire.

Clearly this was the result of some supernatural phenomena.

Furthermore, the culprit's identity was obvious.

"A fire... illusion? Why would that fellow do that?"

"Your Majesty, that... Has appeared before Ena and us."

Prompted by Ena, Godou noticed.

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Hitherto unbeknownst to them, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had

manifested. Embedded in the floor was the magnificent three-foot

three-and-a-half-inch blade. The splendorous sight did not befit this

countryside residence.

However, the visual impact of the burning flames was really quite a

fantastic sight.

'Hmm. Have you learned slightly how to use me?'

Godou finally heard Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's voice clearly.

Even though he had heard it during the battle against the Great Sage

Equaling Heaven, it was much clearer now.

"It's Ena. Did you appear so that we can wield the sword together?"

'Correct. It would be easier for me to talk to you two like this. This

will also mean less trouble for you.'

True. Godou nodded in agreement with this impolite answer.

The divine sword which had asked to be called "partner," had been

quite meddlesome all along.

"It's true that this is easier to talk... But why the fire?"

'You two plan on forging a new sword, right? Fire is crucial in the birth

of a sword.'

Is that so? Godou coldly stared at the fire illusion.

This fellow really loved making scenes, and was probably kindred

spirits with the [Boar].

'Well, that is the situation. In light of what your cooperation has

achieved, the assistance I can provide has expanded in scope. This is

commendable. King, I shall answer your request.'

Despite being Godou's possession, the sword rambled on defiantly.

What kind of "partner" was this? The sword acted like it was an equal.

But Godou did not mind.

"Then you are aware of that!?"

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'Correct. Melding sword together with sword. Two swords into one.

But do not get your hopes up too high. The target is an immortal

indestructible divine artifact. It is uncertain whether my power will

prove effective...'

The divine sword warned calmly. Even so, Godou felt very gratified.

Ena was also smiling as if elated. Perhaps she had always been in

communion with the divine sword like this.

"By the way, you've been following that old gramps Susanoo for a

long time, right? What on earth is that Heavenly Reverse Halberd

thing?"

Godou brought up the question that suddenly entered his mind.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had been the ancient god's personal

sword for eons.

'Ahah, that? No idea. And even if I did, no comment.'

"Well then, did the elders say anything about why they won't respond

to Ena's queries?"

'No idea either. Don't care.'

After repeating these cold responses, the divine sword said:

'Stop asking me these kinds of things. As a sword amongst sword

gods, I am also a divinity belonging to an extremely loyal clique,

right? I only care about things related to battle. Everything else is

irrelevant. Trivial things that only dull the sword's blade.'

"Ah yes, you've said that before, I remember."

Ena spoke as if remembering.

"But then, I already noticed during the time with the Great Sage

Equaling Heaven. That monkey didn't give off this kind of impression?

Other than fighting, he also liked having fun and playing pranks."

'That guy is a half-breed, miko. A hybrid god who amalgamated

various elements and divinities besides a sword god's. Completely

different from pure [Steel] descending from the most primitive

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lineage. That type of fellow is nowhere near as pure as me, and

displays much more complicated traits as a divinity.'

So I see. There were many differences in origins between gods.

Godou felt impressed as Ama no Murakumo continued to look down at

him as it spoke:

'So King, just show me a man's mettle as a partner worthy of my

cooperation. If you were to lose to an earth goddess, it would taint

the honor of us swords!'

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi and the illusory flames. Both suddenly

disappeared.

Godou and Ena finally finished the ritual.

Chirp chirp, chirp chirp. It was the sound of birds twittering.

Refreshingly bright morning rays shone in from the window.

—It was a good night's rest, thought Godou as he lay beneath the

blanket.

With a little time before becoming completely wide awake, there was

a very pleasant and comfortable feeling.

Opening his eyes slightly, he surveyed the room.

It was still the same room. After ending the ritual, Godou had fallen

asleep exhausted.

He checked his cellphone by his pillow for messages — none. Godou

felt relieved.

Nothing seemed to have happened to Athena's statue standing on the

beach. The embarrassment of sleeping through an urgent message

had been averted.

Godou began to enjoy once again the warm and comforting feeling of

contact with the blanket and human skin.

He felt a little sorry for those responsible for guarding throughout the

night. He must get up earlier and prepare properly for battle.

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However, what was with this reluctance to leave the warm sensation

of human skin...

Hmm? Skin? Human skin?

His mind instantly became fully awake. Godou flipped the blanket

over.

—Seishuuin Ena was sleeping right by his side. Could it be possible,

they had slept together!?

The memories after the ritual were fuzzy. He must have been so tired

he instantly slept like a log.

But Ena's appearance.

The Hime-Miko of the Sword had taken off her miko outfit.

Scattered beside the bedding were various red and white garments

she had taken off. Did she remove them before or during her sleep?

Anyway, before Godou's eyes lay Seishuuin Ena, completely naked.

The manner of appearance every human was born with. Voluptuous in

all the right places, yet slim and delicate everywhere else, a

miraculous figure.

Last witnessed at the Chuuzenji hot springs, it was the sight akin to

precious white jade.

Godou came to realize that the object he embraced as he slept,

tenderly treasuring its warmth, and had even toyed with and enjoyed

roughly, could it be this!

"...Ah. Your Majesty woke up— Iyaaah!"

Ena woke up at the worst possible moment.

The drowsiness only lasted briefly. Immediately coming to her senses,

she grabbed the blanket and pulled it to her side.

Covering up the naked body that was being illuminated by the bright

rays of the morning sun. Frantically making cute little screams.

"S-Seishuuin... You slept here..."

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"Yes yes. Using divine possession yesterday was already very tiring...

I think I fell asleep immediately after the ritual. But the memories are

very fuzzy."

Not only her face, the entirety of Ena's pale white skin had turned

red.

It was readily apparent from the exposed portions of her shoulders

and chest, as well as her thighs and bare legs.

"I-I have no idea. It feels like after the ritual, Your Majesty and I

simply fell headlong into the sheets. And then went to sleep like that."

"L-Like that eh?"

The two were conversing stiffly with their faces all red.

"B-But. Something slightly worrying... Ena can't remember taking

clothes off... Does that mean, Your Majesty removed them?"

"N-N-N-No, no way. Or rather... Probably not? Umm?"

Godou was shocked. Even though he was completely certain he had

no recollection, it also seemed like Ena did not undress herself.

Hence, it could not be asserted either way. Could I have done

something so bestial?

Bearing the heavy blow to his self-image, Godou walked unsteadily

over to the window.

Looking out at the beach before him. It was still heavily guarded.

It was finally the day to reach an ultimate conclusion with Athena —

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Chapter VI

Before the Duel

Part 1

A beautiful garden was situated before a mansion reminiscent of

Heian era palatial architecture.

Rockery was heaped and trees were casually planted at calculated

positions. The constructed pond was wide enough for boats and even

contained three islands, linked to one another by vermilion-painted

bridges.

A specially allotted plot of land which embodied the essence of

beautiful natural scenery.

There was only one inhabitant in this garden.

This alluring otherworldly beauty, whose eyes were dark with worry.

Even though she was wearing a traditional kimono in the extravagant

style of the juunihitoe[1], her hair was flaxen in color instead of black.

Her eyes were the color of glass. The features of the beautiful face

seemed almost sculpted. All this was evidence that she was no native

of Japan.

"Oh, did Princess also sense the chaos in the real world?"

Someone greeted the Princess who was standing on the pond's edge

as she gazed at the water surface.

"Yes. The attendant of the 'King of the End' seems to have finally

discovered that Japan is the location of the king's grave..."

The Princess of Glass turned around to face the strongly-built old

man.

1. Juunihitoe(十二単衣): literally "twelve-layer robe," the juunihitoe is an extremely elegant and highly complex kimono that was worn only by court-ladies in Japan.

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Compared to the Princess' juunihitoe, his clothing style was even

more ancient.

A white tight-sleeved gown combined with a loose-fitting hakama.

Had the hair been divided into left and right halves and tied near the

ears, the appearance would greatly resemble Yamato Takeru.

However, his disheveled hair was as unruly as a bird's nest.

"By human calendars, he must have slept for over a millennium. One

could say it is time for the tide to ebb. It appears that the brat will

soon awaken."

The elderly hero spoke with a bored expression.

The Princess and others called him "The Old One." His name was Haya Susanoo no Mikoto, and was once the [Heretic God] who wandered

the earth, bearing the Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi.

Now he had made the Netherworld his home, living in seclusion.

Abandoning the human world and all sorts of troublesome issues,

living like a hermit in this place. Like him, the Princess was doing the

same thing. However, there were intertwined fates which could never

be severed no matter what.

"In the end, even though I escaped to a place like this, he could very

well still be connected to me somehow..."

Susanoo naturally recalled his last appearance.

A layer of poignant battle-hardened vigor gradually proliferated across

his originally handsome face like the spreading of iron rust. And

carved out deeply an expression of battle-weariness —

“Because the one who put you all in this state, was that brat."

The elderly god went "hmph" in response to the Princess' worries.

"Well, since we're already here, then just treat it as a vacation to high places for now. We're all just a bunch of retired geriatrics. After all,

it's about time we stop intervening in the troubles of the human

world.”

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The Princess nodded. Right. But first, the situation had to be followed

closely.

How should the dying mother earth goddess be dealt with? Or

perhaps it will finally be clear whether Kusanagi Godou had the power

to cause vexation to the "King of the End."

How will he respond to that goddess' wish —?

The Princess cast her gaze towards the pond surface. Just like that,

the situation on earth was reflected onto the water surface. Like the

women known as the Divine Ancestors, she was also one who

controlled magic as easily as if it were the simple act of breathing.

Part 2

"Now, the news media have all been successfully brought under

control."

Sayanomiya Kaoru remarked as she watched the mini One-Seg[2]

television.

It was a Sunday morning news show known for its distinctive style.

On the four-inch screen, several commentators were chatting amiably

with the host.

"Even though parts of Kawasaki and the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highly, as

well as the artificial island of Umihotaru have been petrified... Major

incidents of that sort are taking place right now, as long as there are

no reports, 99% of the citizens will be completely oblivious of the

truth."

Within Kisarazu city in the Chiba prefecture, Athena's statue stood

upright on the shore.

After getting dressed and finishing breakfast, Godou returned to this

place, and Kaoru immediately arrived.

With that, the preparation and background work were all complete.

2. One-Seg: a mobile terrestrial digital audio/visual broadcasting service in Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Peru.

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"Wow, none of the stations have reported any news about this

region."

Impressed, Godou exclaimed.

During this time before the battle, Kaoru had brought the One-Seg

television here and had been changing channels repeatedly, checking

all sorts of shows.

Unwittingly, their gaze was cast towards the sea.

From the Kisarazu coast, extending towards the Trans-Tokyo Bay

Highway —

Umihotaru and its surroundings had been transformed into a desolate

palace of stone.

Furthermore, the tunnel connecting to Kawasaki was parked with

hundreds of vehicles all turned into stone.

Within the vehicles sat many statues. Since the car doors could not be

opened, there was no way to rescue passengers. Nevertheless, it

would have been impossible to understand the situation if one were

viewing from afar.

"Originally, this would be a critical incident that would naturally have special reports broadcasted on every station. If Athena's appearance

could be widely disseminated to all parties, perhaps the affected areas

could have been reduced slightly in scope... At least, Haneda Airport

would not have been caught up in this."

Godou nodded in agreement with Kaoru.

The number of associated personnel at the Airport must be much

lower in comparison, which would make it much more difficult to keep

information secret.

"What about online?"

"It's kind of borderline. The nearby residents are suspicious, and there have been complaints posted on blogs and forums, but we will do our

utmost to control the situation."

Kaoru explained fluently.

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Come to think of it, Amakasu had once explained "doing this and that

to the servers in an emergency" when Godou wondered about their

emergency computer policy.

They must be diligently preparing for that as well.

"We disclosed some plausible-sounding speculation and false

information, including some facts that we deliberately mixed in. Well,

there is no way for anyone to gather definitive intelligence anywhere

near the truth without our knowing. Besides, there's that no matter

what."

"That?"

"I don't think anyone easily accepts as truth what they read about

online, right? Especially if the actual situation is ridiculous and

unbelievable."

That was true too. Godou understood.

Even if someone revealed the truth directly, they would be suspected

of mental illness, or at least thought to be joking.

Godou's mother, Kusanagi Mayo, had once recounted with great

seriousness the story of the relative who had been sent to the United

States Marine Corps for counseling camp and rehabilitation because of

delusions that "Michael Jackson will revive one year from now to bring

salvation to mankind." His mother's words were still fresh in Godou's

mind.

To Godou's knowledge, she was probably the most ridiculous

unbelievable woman he ever knew.

"The only way to know the truth would be to visit the scene. However,

people able to break through the blockade prepared by our

Committee do not exist in the normal world."

"There's probably no need to worry to that extent. I'm sure that the

petrified people and objects will be recovered."

"Understood. Then hurry and prepare to save them. You really are

using the [Sword], right?"

Godou shook his head at Kaoru's question.

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That was the natural decision after all. Kaoru's suggested method was

correct. A choice of action that could resolve the incident without any

challenge.

Just slay Athena while she was still in stone.

The petrification wrought by Athena could be easily neutralized by the

[Sword]'s spell words.

Even someone nowhere near as smart as Kaoru should be able to

understand that her suggestion was correct. However, Kusanagi

Godou could not take that choice. If he did, it would not be able to

satisfy all his wishes. Saving Yuri and Liliana, as well as everyone

else, dealing with that goddess' determined wish— It could not satisfy

this willful impulse.

"The [Sword] needs to be used somewhere else. Please continue to

prepare for saving the people turned into stone. Things should

probably go as planned."

Even though he could not explain it, Godou was certain. Tentatively.

All along, gods had never acted in any underhanded manner like

villains. At least from the perspective of their own intentions. This was

probably similar to the reason why they never acknowledged humans

in the slightest.

That said, it was impossible to guarantee.

Godou was exasperated at himself for taking on such a gamble.

"Your wish is my command, my king. No matter what, all you need to

do is ask."

Kaoru replied respectfully. It was delivered with elegance as if spoken

by some upper class noble who had left the royal palace.

Due to the speaker being an elegant cross-dressing beauty, the effect

was even more pronounced.

"Really, I'm always bringing trouble..."

"Following the decrees of the Your Highness the Devil King is our

duty. Please pay no heed to it. As for me personally, there is a

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substantial gamble involved. Even though what I staked currently

escapes me."

Kaoru signaled with her eyes as Godou became suspicious.

"Using methods beyond my imagination, and taking action in ways I

am not permitted by my position. It is a rare treat for me to be able

to assist Kusanagi-san like this. Well, it's still too early to say what

might happen to Yuri and the rest, but my heart sure is racing at this

point."

The History Compilation Committee core member smiled, lightly biting

her lip.

As an eighteen-year-old woman, her chest was surprisingly svelte.

"Precisely because of this dark side, as long as my wits and talents

can keep up with your capricious and overbearing ways, I actually

welcome all your unreasonable demands. This is an opportunity for

you to entice to your side someone like me who is able to assist you."

She was like a beautiful devil marketing herself as the great Devil

King's right hand. Or perhaps Mephistopheles [3] visiting Dr Faust.

Having to deal with a beauty of this sort, Godou could not help but

start staring at the sky. His faction seemed to be filling its ranks in an

anarchic direction...

"Sooner or later, I will become the Committee's Chairperson and

administer the wizardry world of the entire country. But having such a

smooth path laid out for me is not very meaningful. Creating a new

venture with one's own hands... That's the way I like to do things."

She was the next head of one the Four Families, as well as being a

Hime-Miko.

The kinship ties to their families, entrapping Kaoru as well as Ena,

perhaps ran even deeper than could be imagined.

3. Mephistopheles: a demon featured in the Faust legend and subsequently used as a stock version of the devil.

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"In order to get closer to the lifestyle I prefer, please allow me to

make use of you as much as possible in our dealings. Consequently,

do not worry unnecessarily... Well then, that's it for me. Let's handle

everything properly from now."

"I will rely on you to take care of Mariya and Liliana for me."

Godou bowed his head as Kaoru departed.

After being rescued from the Umihotaru artificial island yesterday,

they had been taken to a hospital near the shore. Naturally, it was a

facility backed by the Committee.

Due to the proximity of the Heavenly Reverse Halberd's hiding spot,

that type of facility was particularly common in the area.

"Most certainly. No matter what situation arises, I will keep things

under control. Please fight without reservation."

Kaoru's encouragement was slightly suspect on a moral level, but

Godou felt gratified.

Once her figure had disappeared in the distance, Godou turned to the

other person involved.

— Heretic Athena. The goddess who had turned herself into a statue.

There was no one else in the area apart from Godou and her. The

security team had already left the shore. The Committee had been

busy sealing areas of the city that surrounded this coast, telling

residents about 'the abortive poison gas leak,' urging them to

undertake emergency evacuations during the night before morning

arrived.

Ena had also left for a certain mission.

Preparations were fully complete. Godou drew his weapon without

hesitation.

"As the one who holds all victory in my hands, I am the strongest. All

enemies, all who harbor enmity will be vanquished!"

The scripture of Verethragna, the god of victory. However, there was

more to it.

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"This was where Susanoo no Mikoto started his uprising, leading a

thousand savage gods!"

He also chanted scripture connected to Susanoo's beloved sword.

In order to combine two blades into one.

In order to combine spell words with the divine sword.

"A thousand swords standing upon the earth, used as city walls to

defend against the enemies. Namely, the Ama no Murakumo no

Tsurugi."

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had the ability to absorb the ten

incarnations of Verethragna used by Godou, thereby amplifying each

other's divine power, manifesting new powers.

Just like the railgun used against the Great Sage Equaling Heaven last

time.

'King. The power produced by the sword's spell words have been

received.'

Godou sensed Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's thoughts coming from

his right arm.

'In a normal battle, your blade is the sword of wisdom for slicing gods

apart. However, the blade formed from our union is different. It is

truly the sword of wisdom for severing an immortal indestructible

divine artifact.'

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, both a deity and a divine artifact at

the same time.

The blade formed from the union of such an existence was the

weapon for slicing through divine artifacts instead of gods.

'Using your knowledge of the Holy Grail, the sharpness of the blade

has been altered. Now is the time for foes to be vanquished and

invaders to perish. Swing to your heart's content!'

In the past, the blade had always formed from comprehension of a

god.

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But this time it was a blade formed with the wish to destroy a

completely understood divine artifact. In particular, Godou was

targeting the culprit that was draining Athena's life — the Holy Grail.

The knowledge had been deliberately instilled by Guinevere. I shall

take advantage of it in return!

"Right. I am very grateful I can use it. Let's go!"

'Affirmative! I am the steel that tears through a thousand blades!

Awaiting your command!'

The wielder and the divine sword's thoughts were aligned.

In the battle against the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, Godou's battle

spirit and magical power had been raised to the highest limits.

Consequently, he could now resonate with Ama no Murakumo and

draw out that power even under normal conditions.

On the other hand, this was before the battle started.

Had this been a situation similar to the past, he would not be able to

wield it with full control.

However, having gone through the ritual with Ena, Godou had now

awakened as the possessor of Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi —

"Man and devil — all enemies, all who harbor enmity will be

vanquished!"

Responding to the spell words, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi

manifested in Godou's right hand.

The spectacular blade measuring three feet and three-and-a-half

inches. But unlike its usual appearance, the blade was brilliant gold

instead of jet-black in color. The same color as Verethragna's sword.

'The holy vessel of taboo! Wither like scattered flowers!'

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi called out as it hurtled towards the

statue of pubescent Athena.

The golden blade pierced her delicate chest completely.

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However, what Godou's right hand felt was not the sensation of

tearing through stone or the goddess, instead it was surely the

penetration of the ancient divine artifact.

Quietly drawing out the blade, he dispelled Ama no Murakumo no

Tsurugi with a wave of the hand. With that, Godou waited.

Five seconds, ten seconds... Almost a minute had passed. Athena

finally opened her eyes.

The statue of gray stone was restored to a young girl's supple body of

flesh. Her hair once again displayed brilliance and luster as if melded

with moonlight.

The Holy Grail had been absorbing her life force.

She must have released her stone form after noticing the interruption

of the Grail's action.

"Kusanagi Godou... Is this thy doing? Thou hast given a blow to the

Holy Grail within one's body?"

This could very well be the first time Godou witnessed such an

expression on her face.

Goddess Athena's pubescent face was gazing upon the god-slayer

with admiring approval.

Part 3

"It's been a day. Even though I have many things I'd like to say, let

me make a request first."

With many questions for Athena, Godou began in this manner.

"It's not like I want a return favor for helping you, so it's a request.

Could you return everyone and everything that had been petrified

back to normal?"

"Forsooth?"

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"You said you wanted a no holds barred battle with me. Since we're

fighting anyway, releasing them won't matter to you, right? On the

other hand, if I am forced into battle in this manner, it's like having

hostages. I will be worrying about the people turned into stone and

unable to concentrate on fighting."

"Is that what thou wished to say?"

She must have felt insulted.

Athena's approving expression vanished, turning into a piercing stare.

"Thou art planning to rely on the humans once they are liberated from

their interim death, thereby obtaining dishonorable victory. How

impertinent! How shameless! As the goddess of the Divine Realm,

Athena cannot approve of such underhanded tactics. Knowest thou

hast misspoken!"

A furious shout. It was basic truth. Gods did not care for humans,

simply considering them stones. The thought of "hostages" probably

never crossed their minds.

"To me, those petrified people are very important. Even if you can't

empathize, it is truly what I feel. So please, restore everything first.

Wouldn't doing something so low as taking hostages taint your

authority?"

No matter what, it was necessary to provoke Athena's sense of pride.

Since he had used Verethragna's [Sword] to halt the Holy Grail's

function, there was no other way to dispel the petrification. This was

why he chose to do things this way.

He still had a chance. It was not time to give up yet.

Luo Cuilian had once said: 'A god's strength is proportional to the

strength of their ego.'

Thinking over his past battles, Godou felt this was something he

agreed.

Furthermore, Kusanagi Godou discovered another point. In proportion

to the strength of their ego, they also carried a lot of pride.

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Even though all gods inevitably brought calamity to people, they did

not act despicably. All they wanted was to leisurely display their

superiority. Even that mischievous Great Sage was the same.

In that case, such an accusation should come as blow to Athena's

pride.

Particularly in this situation when she owed him a favor, it was quite

probable she would accept his request.

It was a kind of gamble. However, the goddess ultimately had only

one wish. If Athena said no — the thought made Godou feel like a

stomach ache was coming.

Nevertheless, even though it seemed like what Kaoru had said...

Godou did not agree.

He believed there was another reason why his gamble would pay off.

The haughty and self-centered goddess would not disappoint. Even

though it sounded rather strange, Godou trusted her.

"Hmph. Very well then."

The goddess smacked her lips as she spoke.

"As thy senior on the battlefield, for one to bestow charity upon thee,

'tis only proper for a queen. Conversely, accepting thy charity would

taint this goddess' honor. Very well, Kusanagi Godou. This once, one

shall grant thy request."

Athena proceeded to release a pulse of magic for just an instant. It

flew towards the sea — the direction where the petrified Trans-Tokyo

Bay Harbor ran.

After a short while, Godou's cellphone began to vibrate in his pocket.

Kaoru had informed him that rescue operations had begun.

"Sorry for troubling you. Thank you very much."

"Thy gratitude is not needed. Rather, thou shouldst reflect upon thy

shameless heart and impertinent commentary on a queen.

Regardless, thou hast already spoken."

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Athena sneered lightly.

Like a ferocious bird of prey having discovered its target, or the

delighted expression of a poisonous snake about to swallow its prey.

"Thou wert talking about fighting again with hostages held against

thee — hast thou realized thy foolishness, and changed thy mind?"

"Not really. I don't have anything I need to change my mind about."

Godou dismissed his elated foe's accusation.

"Anyway, what happened to the Holy Grail? It's the culprit that robbed

you of immortality, right? For now, I think it's been successfully

eliminated."

"Forsooth. Thy attack was splendid indeed..."

Why? Athena was showing the same expression as from their first

encounter.

A smile carrying slight gentleness. It was like the reassured

expression of an elder witnessing the growth of the younger

generation.

Sword and sword. Was she praising the combination technique that

sliced apart the Holy Grail?

Or perhaps, she bore this smile for other reasons? The goddess' heart

was impossible to discern.

"The Holy Grail in one's body hath been critically damaged and halted

in function. With that, it hath temporarily stopped draining one's life."

"Temporarily?"

"Yes. Temporarily. The sun shall rise and set once again. Repeating

thus ad infinitum. To be able to press an immortal indestructible

divine artifact into such a corner, 'tis a magnificent sword."

Athena praised lightly.

She softly pressed her hand against the child-like abdomen beneath

her Greek garments.

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She must have concluded this by using her power as the goddess of

wisdom (probably similar to Yuri's spirit vision but hundreds of times

more powerful in perception) to examine the Holy Grail within her.

"Thou hast also witnessed the Divine Sword of Salvation? Forsooth,

'tis difficult to retrieve the majority of this goddess' stolen life with

one's remaining strength. Should the Holy Grail successfully start up

again, one's remaining life shall be lost immediately. Hohoho,

forsooth, having this respite is cause for celebration."

Athena indifferently revealed her inevitable death that was to arrive in

a matter of days.

The Grail was impossible to destroy after all? Since this possibility had

been considered beforehand, it did not come as too much of a

disappointment to Godou.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had already hinted. Had Verethragna's

[Sword] been able to achieve that, it would not be surprising to seal a

Campione's authority semi-permanently. But in all his battles so far,

no god had been defeated by just the [Sword] alone...

Even though it was a convenient weapon combining offense and

defense, it always seemed lacking in a certain decisive power.

It cannot be helped. In that case, I will fight in the manner I have

decided.

"Intentionally sealing the Holy Grail and rousing this goddess from

slumber. Thou finally wishest to have a proper duel? Dost thou intend

to respond to one's valor, standing atop the battlefield? 'Tis most

agreeable!"

"That's not right. Like I just said, my intentions have not changed."

Godou shook his head at the queen of warriors who was smiling

glamorously.

No doubt about it. I will adhere to my own way of doing things no

matter what.

"However, if your dying wish is a battle with me, I will respond more

or less. A battle without any reservations. But it has to be undertaken

in my manner."

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"Thy manner?"

"That's right. Victory will be mine. I won't let Athena who wishes to

kill me leave without being taught a lesson. After that, I will take that

Holy Grail... that thing that's killing you, and show you how to stop it

no matter what. Finally, just like last time, I'll drive you out of Japan."

"...Having reached this critical point, thou still utterest such delusions.

One's death hast already been set in stone."

Godou immediately interrupted Athena's mournful speech.

"It's the Holy Grail and the whatever divine blade of salvation that's

killing you, right? If I catch the owner Guinevere and find out all the

details, then go to the Netherworld to seek out those old guys, there

must be a way."

It could very well achieve nothing but delay the inevitable.

Nevertheless, that was what Godou decided.

"I'd be very troubled if you died. I still haven't heard your wish."

"One hast already expressed clearly. Answerest this goddess'

challenge, showest thy will and spirit. That shall be the price."

Godou stared back at the snake goddess' gaze.

"I've also mentioned already. I won't listen to any request that brings

troubles to the surrounding people. Therefore our battle doesn't

count. I'll first defeat you, then help you, and listen to another

request. Because I have already decided, you must use force if you

want to change my mind."

Saving Athena from the Holy Grail. That was easy to say.

On the other hand, it would be challenging to achieve. A dark and

unguided path lay ahead. Which was why he wanted to exhibit his

"will and spirit" to Athena before the worst outcome arrived.

For the sake of this goddess who expressly wished to duel Kusanagi

Godou before she died.

...Despite being a civilized person who treasured peace, the option of

"don't fight Athena and find out how to deal with the Grail" seemed to have disappeared from his mind.

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Why Godou rejected such a plan, the reason was as clear as day.

"Impressive, such growth in this short time."

Almost about to say something astounding, Athena shook her head.

It did not seem like the behavior of a great goddess, but more like a

human's instead.

"Thou art careless, an illegitimate child of the fool after all! Forsooth, thou holdst onto incomprehensible weakness, how much longer

couldst thou survive!?"

She spoke sonorously in a soprano pitch.

Godou did not miss the sardonic glimmer accompanying the goddess'

gaze.

"One doth not think thou canst become strong while bearing such

weakness... Foolish, forsooth 'tis foolish — Alas, it cannot be helped!

Furthermore, thou seekest a battle of might against the goddess of

war, such boldness should have limits!" The goddess who always bore

an expressionless poker face, was now exclaiming with a delighted

expression.

So this kind of expression was actually possible for her. Godou

thought rather rudely to himself.

"Very well, thou sayst thou shalt defeat Athena. The manner thou

described should not work. Then one's valor shall enlighten Kusanagi

Godou. Shouldst thou have any objections, then thou shalt voice them

through force as thou hast proposed."

She must have meant something like "If you win then I don't mind

listening to you."

Seeing Athena's joyful expression, Godou believed without cause.

Completely baseless. But incredibly, that was what he believed. He

proceeded to stroll slowly across the beach, listening to the sound of

breaking waves as he walked.

Without saying a word, Athena followed along, quietly walking behind

Godou.

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Even though it would be fine to get started immediately, he still

wanted to rouse his battle spirits first. Athena must be thinking the

same thing.

God and god-slayer walked as they savored their connection forged

by fate.

The kind of fateful relationship written as mortal enemy but read

aloud as "friend," impossible to articulate to others.

The first sign of change Guinevere noticed was the disappearance of

the Holy Grail's presence.

She was the reincarnation of the goddess who created the Holy Grail.

No matter how far they were separated, even when Athena had

devoured the Grail, Guinevere remained firmly aware of its presence.

But now, the feeling was suddenly gone.

Furthermore, there was a second change.

She sensed the disappearance of the divine power that had been

saturating the area.

Athena's power had vanished. The power that turned everything into

stone, whether living things or inanimate objects, organic or

inorganic.

Guinevere was currently located on the shore a few dozens of

kilometers away from where the goddess had turned herself into

stone.

Not at a scenic beach but on top of a treacherous cliff. Beneath her,

the early winter sea was crashing against the rocks, producing waves

of white.

Guinevere immediately used the clairvoyant [Witch's Eye] to enhance

her vision, and watched.

—The great road built over the sea by human hands.

—The castle built over there like some kind of ship and fortress

hybrid.

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—The coastal town on the opposite shore to where Guinevere and the

goddess were located.

Not too long ago everything was still stone. Whether buildings, roads,

ponds or marshes. Even parts of the ocean. Living things, beasts,

insignificant microorganisms, flying insects and crawling bugs,

everything.

All had been carcasses of stone. A graveyard of stone.

All of a sudden, everything had been restored. Restored to life and

vigor, or perhaps simply their original state. All the people and

animals that had been turned to stone now lay sprawled and sleeping

wherever they were.

"The curse of petrification is temporary death rather than true

slaughter. Bringing things back to life must be child's play for

Athena..."

(Beloved child, find Athena, or that young god-slayer!)

Lancelot's reproach could be heard. Watching over from afar, he too,

had noticed the change.

Guinevere frantically sent a flying [Eye] towards the beach where

Athena had turned herself into stone.

Saw it. Facing off against Kusanagi Godou, the awakened goddess —

Guinevere concluded the spell of the [Witch's Eye] and immediately

used flight magic, taking to the skies, surrounded by white light as

she flew through the air.

In any case, she had to hasten to the scene and investigate what

happened exactly.

Then assist Kusanagi Godou so that he can defeat the goddess.

Just as Guinevere was making her plans and flying without

distraction, she was ambushed.

Seishuuin Ena was called the Hime-Miko of the Sword.

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However, her martial arts mastery was not limited to the sword but

also included the naginata. She was also talented in jujutsu.[4] Not

only that, she was also trained in the shuriken[5] and the jutte[6] and

concealed weapons known as anki. [7] Furthermore, she knew archery.

Unfortunately, it was not up to the level known as the art of the bow.

No matter what, preparing the bow, sighting the target by chance,

casually nocking the arrow and hitting the target was no easy task.

Nevertheless, with her exceptionally outstanding vision and excellent

instincts, Ena was able to get a good aim at her target.

"O Great God of Arms, I beseech your aid against my enemy... May

this arrow strike right on target."

To be on the safe side, she had applied the spell of the [Evil

Vanquishing Arrow] beforehand.

It was a spell that guaranteed penetration even if the target was

intangible spirits or ectoplasm, or protected by projectile deflecting

spells.

Ena was located on the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway.

Roughly a couple hundred meters away from the Kisarazu junction

entrance. Due to traffic restrictions, there were no cars on the road.

Preparations were complete. And then the bright light of the target

was sighted.

A flying white light. So fast. Flying with substantial speed. Almost

about to cross the airspace over the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway. The

destination was Athena's beach as expected.

4. Jujutsu(柔術): a type of Japanese martial arts and close combat for defeating armed and armored opponents with nothing but bare hands or a short weapon.

5. Shuriken(手裏剣): literally "sword in hand," a traditional Japanese concealed weapon used for throwing, stabbing or slashing.

6. Jutte(十手): literally "ten-hands," a specialized Japanese non-bladed weapon.

7. Anki(暗器): a class of hidden weapons used for throwing or stabbing, went into decline with the advent of firearms.

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"Pay good attention. I can let you off for running around doing sneaky

things in the dark, but I won't let you come disturb His Majesty

deliberately!"

Grumbling to herself, she locked the target in her sights.

The white light should be Divine Ancestor Guinevere. Ena expected it

and had been watching the sky alertly from a place with an open

view.

The flying witch appeared in the air above the Trans-Tokyo Bay

Highway.

Ena shot the arrow with a whoosh.

The arrow that was expected to strike in one hit. Furthermore, this

was a specially crafted arrow sent from the Seishuuin home, a magic

bullet carrying evil-exorcising and spirit-revealing properties.

This arrow reached several kilometers up into the air.

That kind of distance was not possible to fire from a bow. This was

also one of the magical powers hidden in the magic bullet. Exceptional

range and penetrative power. Used in conjunction with Ena's eyes,

instincts and archery.

The full-powered arrow bearing all these factors, struck down the

white light.

The arrowhead penetrated soft flesh... Ena was certain.

The expert's instincts proved to be correct. The flight of the white

light was interrupted.

The light immediately vanished to reveal the figure of Witch Queen

Guinevere, who began falling naturally. In that case, she would fall

into the sea or onto the surface of the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway.

However, the rate of her fall suddenly slowed down.

Slowly and wavering, like the descent of a leaf, she was using

hovering magic.

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The Divine Ancestor's left arm... The upper arm region showed a

laceration.

In addition, her child-like beautiful face was flushed red from

undisguised anger. Even so, her face was still as beautiful as an

antique doll's.

"Not a critical hit... It can't be helped since she was flying at such

speeds."

The blonde Divine Ancestor made her landing a couple dozens of

meters ahead on the road.

Ena threw the bow and quiver aside. The greeting had been sent and

it was now time for the weapons to enter the stage.

She had to prevent Guinevere from advancing. This was the mission

entrusted to her by the man she loved.

Part 4

"I know all about you. Miko blessed with divine manifestation."

Did she calm her rage as soon as she landed on the ground?

Guinevere's beautiful face was now as calm as a windless lake.

"Obstructing the most authoritative Divine Ancestor, Witch Queen

Guinevere. What an audacious girl. The price exacted for such

insolence shall be your very life."

In outer form, she appeared even younger than Ena. However, there

existed a vast difference in mastery of magic and sheer magical

power between them.

Nevertheless, the Hime-Miko of the Sword was undaunted, charging

straight at Divine Ancestor Guinevere.

"I don't know if you are bluffing — but Ena is not one to sit around

waiting for death."

Ena retorted with determination. Having abandoned the bow, she was

unarmed.

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Not even her usual Japanese sword was present. But that was

because she had already prepared a substitute weapon.

"Yamato Yamato, elite of the nation, endless rolling green mountains,

encircled by the walls of the summit, beautiful Yamato!"

Spell words chanted in order to use the trump card.

Then she imagined. The partner whose form was a sword. The new

bonds forged last night —

Divine possession began. This time it was not the presence bestowed

by the guardian god Susanoo but a divine aura closer to this partner

here.

"Beseeching the grace of Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi! May its

shadow manifest hither!"

The magnificent three-foot three-and-a-half-inch blade suddenly

manifested in Ena's hand as she called out.

The jet-black blade whose form followed a gentle curve, forged into a

structure of Japanese style. This was the Ama no Murakumo no

Tsurugi that inhabited Kusanagi Godou's right arm. Unlike before, this

was not temporarily borrowed.

The divine aura of Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had been summoned

from Kusanagi Godou's right arm and materialized in the form of a

sword.

This could be said to be Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's

doppelganger. Another divine blade.

"Well... How splendid. Summoning the power of gods immediately!"

Even so, Guinevere continued to smile.

The divine possessed Hime-Miko of the Sword should be on the same

level as Divine Ancestors and divine beasts.

Ena wielded Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's divine aura as she held

her breath and focused.

"Hey, did you know? Even though they are known as Hime-Miko in

this country, this kind of power originates from the bloodline of the

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Divine Ancestors, the same kin as me, Guinevere. Yes yes, you are

one of our very distant descendants."

The Witch Queen's melodic voice spoke softly, as she laughed with an

expression of child-like innocence.

"It would be most vexing to think that a distant descendant can do

something we Divine Ancestors could not. Be that as it may,

Guinevere happens to be unable to use possession type spells—"

In that instant, the divine aura in Ena's surroundings increased

explosively.

Not from Guinevere herself but somewhere else... Over there! Ena

cast her gaze towards the vast sea of Bousou beyond the Trans-Tokyo

Bay Highway.

"However, I can still manage similar spells. I beseech you to come

hither, servant dispatched by the god of the sea! Fight for Guinevere!"

Shyaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!

There was the sound of a great volume of seawater pushed forth onto

land.

Ena remained silent despite the rising tension of facing this sea-

splitting might.

Even though its full appearance was not visible, the head of the giant

squid suggested a full length of maybe thirty or forty meters —

The giant squid's various tentacles began reaching out from the sea.

"Wohohoho. The water and the earth's divine aura are also considered

Guinevere's kin. With a little time and preparation, they can be made

to manifest in the form of divine beasts. Even though it's simply an

imitation of the divine, formed using the Holy Grail's magical power...

However, even something on the level of a fake god can be

manifested."

Ena was astonished at the revelations of Guinevere's confident

speech.

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Having obtained divine might, she understood that a divine beast lay

before her. Even though her divine possession was rather game-

breaking, her opponent was even more extreme.

No matter what, even assisted by divine power, Seishuuin Ena was

just a living human girl.

Her opponent had the gigantic body of a divine beast. The difference

in power and body size was overwhelming.

"That's appearing too suddenly, come on!"

An enormous squid tentacle attacked from overhead.

Crash! The speed and curvature was like a giant whip's.

Ena jumped away as quickly as a monkey. Very few people could

surpass the agility of the Hime-Miko of the Sword.

With an appropriate margin of safety, she evaded the squid's tentacle.

The giant organism's appendage struck the highway surface where

Ena had been standing — directly shattering it. Steel reinforced

concrete crumbled noisily, breaking apart, dug upon by the squid's

tentacle. It seemed as easy as slicing through a cake.

Furthermore, the giant squid still had many other tentacles.

The gigantic tentacles repeatedly attacked Ena on land.

Tentacles descending on her from above. Tentacles sweeping from

behind. From the right and left, tentacles trying to entangle her.

"Rather alert of you! However, please do not forget the existence of

Guinevere!"

Ena smacked her lips. The giant squid (more elegantly known as the

Kraken) was wrecking the road using dozens of tentacles.

The road surface was pulverized and torn into a mess.

Concrete fragments of various shapes and sizes were rolling about all

over the road.

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Cars probably could not be driven over this road any more. Even

walking would be difficult. Had Ena not been agile enough to jump

around in this place, it would have been impossible to evade all of the

Kraken's attacks.

At this time, the next challenge arrived.

Guinevere who had hovered into the air at some point was now

holding a javelin in her hand.

"O Witch's javelin guarding the country of shadows, relive the legend

of Queen Scáthach!"[8]

Chanting the spell words, the Divine Ancestor launched the javelin.

A weakly throw that neglected to make use of the waist. She must be

untrained in martial arts.

Nevertheless, such a throw was more than enough. As the javelin

automatically flew towards Ena, the magical weapon had split itself

into twelve short spears hurtling towards their target.

Ena gave up trying to defend.

Using her reflexes to guard against the Kraken's attacks, she

entrusted herself to Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi!

Relaxing her arms as she gripped the divine sword, she allowed it to

move autonomously.

Flash. Two flashes. Three flashes. As the lustrous blade endlessly

flashed back and forth, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi repeatedly

struck down the onslaught of magic javelins.

All were cut down. The steel partner defended Ena most splendidly.

At that moment the concrete beneath her shattered.

Somehow, the Kraken had dug one of its tentacles into the ground,

preparing for an attack from below.

8. Scáthach: deity appearing in Irish mythology, legendary Scottish warrior woman who trained the hero Cú Chulainn.

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Even so, Ena managed to retreat backwards with all her effort and

evaded the massive tentacle.

However, the second and third tentacles continued to rip apart the

concrete beneath her, repeatedly attacking from underground. Ena

leaped around as if she was flying, desperately trying to escape.

Guinevere once again threw the javelin from just now, this time

launching two at the same time.

Splitting apart once again, a total of twenty-four short spears rained

down.

—I rely on you, Ama no Murakumo!

Responding to her prayer, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi once again

defended with a flurry of strikes. Nevertheless.

Guooooooooooooooooooh!!

A terrifying shriek. Even though it was unclear what kind of organ

produced such a sound, it was the howl of the Kraken.

In the instant she heard this sound, Ena's entire body froze.

Tightly constricted by the spirit powers of the divine beast, she could

not even lift a finger.

Normally, divine possessed Ena would have used Ama no Murakumo

no Tsurugi to slice it apart. However, her preoccupation with offense

had shown an opening!

"In case I had to take you on as an opponent... Even though I did

warn myself, was it redundant concern?"

Guinevere remarked boldly as she prepared the third launch of the

javelin.

Since Ena had entrusted her defense to Ama no Murakumo no

Tsurugi, her body was unable to move.

In that case, let me fully liberate Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's

power — just as Ena started concentrating.

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"Behold! As an adamant harder than flint have I made thy forehead!

Fear them not, neither be dismayed at their looks, though they be a

rebellious house!"[9]

The familiar and wondrous voice chanted spell words of iron.

A wall suddenly appeared before Ena. Like a thick panel of steel, it

was impenetrable as a literal iron wall, deflecting the spears

completely.

"I finally made it to the most spectacular scene. Fortune must be

smiling upon my usual abundance of good deeds."

His Majesty would likely retort to such a comment.

The girl, who could hardly be described as virtuous in conduct,

approached as Ena smiled wryly.

Crowned by her red-tinted blonde hair fluttering in the wind, her

beautiful face shone with the light of dazzling talent and domineering

spirit.

Her surcoat was designed with red vertical stripes against a black

background.

The beautiful girl synonymous to red and black. It was Erica Blandelli

of course.

Part 5

"No need to explain the situation. I've already heard the main gist

from Godou. I think I can imagine the rest from the current

circumstances."

Appearing majestically, Erica held a great broad sword in her hand.

This was the true form of the magic sword Cuore di Leone. Held in her

other hand was a rhombic shield.

Ena asked her unexpected savior:

9. Ezekiel 3:9

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"Erica-san, weren't you unable to return immediately?"

"Yes. But fortunately, I was able to obtain permission to return soon

after Godou's call. Then I went to the airport, praying that the flight

to Japan had not been cancelled."

Erica spoke elegantly as usual.

However, this leisurely confidence made Ena even more certain.

"The way you speak sounds a bit like Kaoru-san. Surely there was no

'praying' like you said."

"How could that be? I am bound to a knight's honor with a clean

conscience. Rather, Ena-san must have spent too much time with

such a duplicitous person, for you to be unable to believe in other

people's good fortune..."

Having spoken with composure, Erica turned her gaze towards the

sky.

Witch Queen Guinevere. Moreover, the divine beast Kraken whose

head had surfaced was still waiting ready behind her.

Even though a normal squid only had ten tentacles, this creature

actually had twenty or thirty of these appendages.

Those massive tentacles were like sea serpents, wriggling nonstop

along the surface of the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway and craning their

scythe-like necks.

The terrifyingly white tentacles were densely covered with numerous

suction cups. It was a sight that created great dissonance against

Guinevere's antique doll-like beauty.

"Allow me to formally introduce myself to you, witch amongst witches.

Meeting you here is an honor for me, the Knight Erica Blandelli. I've

heard plenty about your exploits as Black Prince Alec's enemy."

"Well. It is rare for people to know of Guinevere's cordial relations

with the Black Prince."

The blonde knight gracefully performed a knight's greeting.

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She showed a lady-like smile to the hovering beauty in the black

dress.

Ignoring the strange setting, they were like a courtly pair of

characters taken out from medieval chivalric romance literature.

"Not only valorous but also versed in etiquette, and very resourceful

too! Hohoho, clever knight, I also know about you. Indeed, you are

Kusanagi-sama's direct vassal."

"To be acknowledged by Guinevere-sama is truly an unexpected joy."

The conversation was like mutual echoing.

Ena began to get impatient. Even though Erica was speaking very

gracefully, her true nature was unbearably arrogant. What conniving

ways. Furthermore, something about Erica made Ena wary —

Erica Blandelli was back after a long absence.

For the undisputed premier Hime-Miko, Seishuuin Ena, Erica was her

first true opponent. Most likely, they will continue being rivals for the

rest of their lives.

In the past, Ena did not sense Erica holding back on a hidden trump

card.

Purely in terms of dormant potential, even the prodigy Erica could not

match a user of divine possession.

That was what Ena had always thought. However, what about now?

And henceforth? Somehow, Ena's instincts were warning her.

"Hohoho. It's been so long since I had a chance to converse with a

knight who knows how to treat a lady properly. This should have been

an occasion to savor and enjoy, but very unfortunately, Guinevere is

in a hurry to find out what happened between Kusanagi-sama and

Athena. It's about time for things to conclude here."

Guinevere smiled as she hovered in the air.

The conversation was the only thing courteous. The original tense

atmosphere had not changed at all.

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Erica readied her magic sword and prepared for battle. Ena also

gripped Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi firmly once more.

"Hey Erica-san... Could you let me handle this alone?"

"Oh my, Ena-san, you want a one on one duel? Even though that kind

of knightly style is my preference, the current situation can only

accommodate two versus two."

The Hime-Miko and the Great Knight stood shoulder to shoulder,

facing their opponents.

Divine Ancestor Guinevere and divine beast Kraken. Despite the

massive disparity in outward beauty, both belonged to the divine

realm. No amount of martial arts or magical mastery could surpass

these formidable foes.

"Yes. Ena can see that. But fighting in this messy battle isn't a

solution either — rather, the tide will gradually turn against us.

Because of that, could you please let Ena go on a rampage first, then

I will rely on Erica-san for the rest."

"Debating technique aside, I think Ena-san should really learn a little

rhetoric."

This abstract manner of speech expressed disagreement. However.

"Well. I, Erica Blandelli, have also been blessed by fortune with the

talent of adaptability. Do as you wish. Show me what you can do."

"Thanks. It really helps. — Well then, I'll be in your care!"

In the instant she obtained Erica's favorable answer, Ena began to

run.

Running at full speed towards the Divine Ancestor and the divine

beast. Summoning even more of Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's

divine aura. Despite having already reached the limits of control, she

continued to summon more.

The Kraken swung its massive tentacles at Ena.

Guinevere also intended to throw the javelin as before.

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But Ena could not feel anything. She will leave things to the body and

the partner who should be able to sweep all obstacles all away!

...From this moment on, Ena's consciousness began to fade.

In contrast, the body running at full speed became even more alert.

Compared to before, it was more sensitive and vigorous.

Moving with beast-like savagery, leaping, evading the Kraken's

tentacles. Stepping on it, jumping further. Agilely dodging Guinevere's

rain of magical spears along the way.

The body was not the only thing performing vigorously.

The divine sword, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, also moved freely in

a flurry, back and forth endlessly.

Those terrifying sucker-bearing tentacles of the Kraken — impossible

to discern in number how many dozens there were.

The sacred jet-black blade continually thrust itself at them. Slicing

them apart, severing them.

Guinevere's javelins also met the same fate. As soon as they neared

the sword, they were instantly sliced to pieces.

The Kraken roared painfully using some unknown organ.

Guinevere's face began twitching from shock.

Completely ignoring these sights and sounds, Seishuuin Ena's body

continued jumping around with the divine sword.

It felt as if her consciousness was staring blankly down from the sky.

Like watching someone else. Clearly abnormal.

Rampage. Seishuuin Ena was intentionally allowing her divine

possession to rampage out of control.

Even though she entered this state last time to overpower Erica, it

had been an accident. This time, she deliberately caused herself to

become like this. She believed that the best way to defeat the

combination of divine beast and Divine Ancestor was to rely on

rampaging explosive power.

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With too many uncertainties, it was a final desperate ploy that could

not be used lightly.

However, Ena let herself go out of control without hesitation because

she believed she could entrust the aftermath to Erica. In that case,

how would their opponents react?

Erica distanced herself from the rampaging Hime-Miko and carefully

watched the battle develop.

That's right, well done. Leave on your own.

In their current state, Ena and Ama no Murakumo had no confidence

whether they could distinguish friend from foe. It was correct for Erica

to stand back and keep an eye on the situation, ready to seize any

opportunities. Erica-san was really smart as expected—

As her mind contemplated, Ena's body was already beginning its last

rampage.

The limit should be fast approaching. In that case, the body will soon

crash down like a kite with a severed string. If only she could make it

in time...

Her consciousness wishing in a daze, Ena's body ran towards the sea.

And jumped as hard as she could, off the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway.

Towards the head of the Kraken exposed above the sea surface.

Aiming for the body rather than the tentacles.

Ena flew, her body so light that it could have jumped over eight ships.

Heading in a straight line, she thrust Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi

forwards. Just like that, the jet-black blade struck the squid's head

with a violent impact, piercing right through. Unable to stop her, the

Kraken roared.

Guaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!

The divine beast immediately caused the sea surface to rise, trying

with all its might to create a defensive wall of seawater. It was

attempting to send Ena and her attack flying back!

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However, the instant Ama no Murakumo's bladed edge made contact

with the wall of seawater...

The wall's material, the seawater instantly split open and lost form.

With series of splashes, the water fell back into the original sea. Still

flying, Ena stabbed the divine blade into the Kraken's face.

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!! The final cries of

death.

Struck by a full-powered blow, the giant squid turned back into a

massive volume of water with a bone-chilling shriek. With crashing

and splashing noises, it split apart and returned to the sea, creating

massive waves.

However, having obtained victory, Ena's body also fell into the water.

Am I going to... drown? As Ena's consciousness wondered, Erica

sprang into action.

"Unbelievable. Such utter recklessness, making things so

troublesome!"

Turning Cuore di Leone into a lock and chain, she cast it out.

Splendidly, the lock and chain tangled itself around Ena' right leg.

Pulling the undulating chain, Erica dragged Ena's body back onto the

Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway.

Ena's consciousness returned at this time. Finally, she had reached

her limit.

"Guhooh... Guwah!"

Regaining her senses, Ena knelt by Erica's feet, vomiting blood.

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Her entire body felt as heavy as lead. Exhausted to the absolute limit.

After using divine possession for two days in a row, the feedback

struck her all at once.

"Seems like I'm out... So as I requested just now, I leave things to

you..."

"You're hopeless. Go on and feel gratified. It's quite rare for me to

support anyone apart from Godou and Lily."

Ena smiled at Erica's answer.

Even though this rival was so conceited, at the same time, she was

also extremely generous.

"Basically, Guinevere's concerns proved to be correct."

Hovering in midair through magic, Guinevere softly whispered.

Despite the defeat of the divine beast before her, the beautiful girl's

face was not shrouded in gloom.

"This reminds me of ancient berserkers and their superb battle forms.

I never would have expected my kin to be defeated in this manner.

What a scary child...!"

Guinevere smiled.

The child-like beautiful face was infused with the Witch Queen's

solemn aloofness.

"As befits one who serves a god-slayer. Far surpassing normal

humans. If that is the case, Guinevere will use the final move. Sir

Knight, come heed Guinevere's summons!"

The shouts of the lovely voice reached high into the sky.

Immediately, the sunny sky turned black with clouds and lightning

descended.

Or rather, a man and horse descended from the sky, clad in lightning.

A white divine horse together with a knight in white armor. This was

not a divine beast but a [Heretic God]!

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The white rider and horse descended next to Guinevere, hovering

calmly in midair.

"Guinevere needs to take care of these people, Sir Knight. May I ask

that you go forth to Athena and Kusanagi-sama's side?"

"Hmm. It will be tough to handle."

From the white knight's helmet came a very manly and beautiful

voice. Even though his actual face could not be seen, one inevitably

felt that he must be either a cool or an awe-inspiring man.

"Most unfortunate. Hence, Sir Knight, please take this."

A short pewter staff suddenly appeared in Guinevere's hand.

Its tip was done in silverwork to resemble a twin-headed snake. The

white knight casually received the snake staff without paying

particular attention.

"Hmm. All shall be done in accordance to your will."

"May victory smile upon you, Lancelot du Lac!"

Nodding at the farewell, the white god was enveloped in lightning.

He flew straight in that manner, towards the beach where Athena and

Godou were located.

Ena was unable to take a single step, but even in peak condition she

would not have been able to intercept him.

True lightning flying across the sky was most likely impossible for

Ena's arrows to strike down.

"Knight of the Lake, Sir Lancelot... There have been rumors that he

secretly protects Guinevere-sama, but clearly it is no longer anything

secret..."

On the other hand, Erica stood in surprise beside Ena.

Thus, Guinevere turned around and smiled with child-like innocence

towards the ground.

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"Hoho. You seem to be on amicable terms with Princess Alice. Yes, in

order not to repeat the same mistake as when I lost to His Highness

the Black Prince, I now made Sir Knight manifest as a heretic god."

For the Witch Queen to be able to recruit a war god of steel, even Ena

the optimist was extremely shocked.

"I could have asked Sir Knight to eliminate you all in an instant, but

making such a rude request to the unparalleled war god is not

permitted. So let Guinevere personally send you to your graves!"

As Guinevere yelled out, her body released intense magical power.

'Divine essence of the water. I beseech you to hurry forth to

Guinevere and once again respond to the prayers of the Witch Queen,

reveal your sacred form!"

Divine essence once again surged, causing the sea to rise. But this

time it was not the Kraken.

Appearing forth was a white-colored water dragon.

A ferocious head like a carnivorous dinosaur and a long slender body

like a gigantic serpent. From its back grew bat-like wings. Its two

front legs resembled a lizard's. A strange looking chimera —

Raising its head and torso up from the sea, the sea dragon roared.

Oooooooooooooooooooooh!! The roaring sound created wind.

Violent gusts of wind blew across the surrounding sea and the surface

of the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway. It was so strong that Erica and

Ena's body felt like they were about to be blown away.

"Come! Attack together with Guinevere and devour these children

with your jaws!"

The Witch Queen disappeared, her slender body swallowed into the

water dragon's chest. Divine Ancestor Guinevere was assimilated into

the several-dozen-meter-long white dragon.

"Could it be possible, she released the seal of the dragons and

snakes!?"

"Don't think so... That's still a divine beast!"

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As the female knight wondered with a paled expression, Ena replied

softly.

Erica proceeded to gaze sharply at the water dragon's massive body,

and murmured to herself:

"Really... In that case, perhaps this could finally be used."

Erica's words. As expected. Ena nodded at her correct suspicions.

Back when Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was rampaging out of

control at Chidorigafuchi, and also in the battle against the Great

Sage Equaling Heaven, Erica had received Verethragna's protection,

allowing her to face off against Ena and the Great Sage.

But now she no longer had that protection. She must fight her way

out of this situation with her own power.

"—Finally be used is not good enough. The crisis must be overcome

no matter what, Erica."

A sudden voice called out.

It was a voice not heard for a day, that of the awe-inspiring female

knight. Ena immediately glanced in its direction.

She must have entered from the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway, near the

Kisarazu junction entrance. They had finally arrived.

"In order to obtain that mystical ritual, you took that lazy break that

the school acquiesced to. If you do not show the results properly, all

your unruliness would become meaningless!"

"Well said, Lily."

Erica chuckled at Liliana Kranjcar's statement.

The petrified female knight most likely revived slightly more than ten

minutes earlier, asked about the situation and rushed here

immediately. She must have deemed it more urgent to support Ena

first instead of her lord.

"Hoping to be entrusted with the duty of aiding Godou, Lily was

smiling so happily back then. In any case, you must have been

fulfilling your desires while I was away."

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"Ugh, stop talking nonsense!"

Wearing her blue and black cape, Liliana objected with a shout as her

face began to twitch.

Having summoned the magic sword Il Maestro in its naginata-like

form, she was clearly entering this battle with caution.

"Actually I originally planned to go along and read that book. But then

I was thinking I could not take time off to leave Kusanagi Godou's

side, it could not be helped...!"

"Ena-san! Did you overuse divine possession!? Y-You need immediate

treatment...!"

Ignoring the knight's anxiety, another member of the reinforcements

had spoken.

It was Mariya Yuri dressed in her miko outfit. Due to the divine

beast's rampage, the road was full of debris, and Yuri slowly and

painfully made her way near.

Kneeling down and gently caressing Ena's back, she nodded to Erica.

"It is fine, Erica-san. Your new power — as long as it can be controlled well, it should be a trump card that stands on equal ground with

divine possession."

"Thank you, Yuri. Your encouragement is truly inspiring."

Erica displayed a glamorous smile towards the Hime-Miko who most

likely received an oracle through spirit vision.

"Well, the most important issue is 'control' as mentioned, but there is

no choice but to proceed onwards at this juncture. Everyone, let the

sight of Erica Blandelli's mighty style be branded upon your eyes! I

shall defeat Divine Ancestor Guinevere here and now!"

Sonorously delivering her declaration, the red knight approached the

deadly and ferocious water dragon.

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Part 6

Erica and Lily had learned the spell words of David from the grimoire,

"Book in Praise of David's Great Works."

However, that was not all they had learned.

The spell words of smiting. Ultimate battle magic crowned with

David's great name, and said to bestow the user with the [Sacred

Privilege of Extermination] on the level of divine beasts and spirits —

Back when they sneaked a peek at the original edition grimoire

guarded by Saint Raffaello, Salvatore Doni's master, Erica and Liliana

had tried as much as they could to memorize this portion of the

mystic arts. However, the descriptions were extremely voluminous.

Despite their great intellect, the two girls' memories were limited.

Erica had tried her best to memorize the portion of [Jericho's

Extermination] while Liliana had committed [Midian's Extermination]

to memory. Other than that, there were still all sorts of other

knowledge.

—Conversely, for the two girls to be able to identify all the magical

key points in such short time, was testament to their genius intellect

and disposition to magic...

In any case, by their good fortune, two mystical techniques had been

acquired.

Erica studied them whenever she had a chance. Same for Liliana.

Several years later, the two had mastered the spell words of David.

Secret techniques that could even cause damage to gods. However,

actual combat experience later taught them it was virtually impossible

to defeat a god with these techniques without substantially miraculous

circumstances.

Furthermore, Erica and Liliana were still unable to use the spell words

of smiting.

Learning this secret rite required paladino-level mastery of martial

arts and magic.

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The only known users were Saint Raffaello, Erica's uncle Paolo

Blandelli, and Black Prince Alec's trusted subordinate Sir Iceman.

Knights who were equivalent to living legends.

Even though Erica and Liliana were prodigies, these were not

techniques that could be easily used by knights in training.

However, in the battle against the Great Sage Equaling Heaven —

Bestowed with Verethragna's protection, the two girls had successfully

used incomplete spell words of smiting.

Precisely because of that, they reached a revelation. This spell was

still inadequate for taking on gods head on. On the other hand, it was

an effective counter to their servants, the divine beasts.

Kusanagi Godou's battles in the future will only get even more harsh

and intense.

In order to be able to assist meaningfully, they needed to master the

spell words of smiting as quickly as possible. Furthermore, the two

knights would be left in the dust by their rivals if they did not do so.

"Even though it's a slightly unpleasant topic, let's exchange opinions

without reservation."

Three weeks ago, Erica had proposed to Liliana.

Inviting her childhood friend and rival to a cafe on Hongou street,

Erica chatted with Liliana over coffee.

"Even though we've trained as much as Ena-san, her theophany is far

too extraordinary. In the context of Europe, using that technique

would put her amongst the ranks of the paladino... Unique existences

like Esteemed Uncle and Saint Raffaello."

"Yes. I have no wish to admit it, but that is indeed the truth."

Liliana was nodding with a frown.

In European magic, divine possession was classed as theophany.

However, no known user had been born in the past three hundred

years. That was the kind of outstanding and rare talent shown by

Ena's complete mastery of this mystic technique.

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Neither the red nor the blue knights wanted to admit defeat.

But they were not the foolish type that disparaged others for such

reasons.

"It's not too conspicuous, but Mariya Yuri's potential is also quite

amazing."

"Yes. That child possesses spirit powers of the same nature as

Princess Alice."

This was confirmed during the time when she received Verethragna's

protection.

At the time, Yuri was in command of spirit vision and psychic sensing

powers that even surpassed the White Miko-Hime.

"I don't think she can reach the Princess' level in the future, but it is truly remarkable how Yuri resembled the legendary peerless miko. By

the way, the young master of Hong Kong's Lu family also seems to be

hanging around Godou recently."

Erica recalled the eccentric but promising young star.

Although he could be considered the same generation, Lu Yinghua still

resembled a child who had not grown up. But sooner or later, he

would become a young man powerful enough to surpass Erica and

Liliana.

Most probably, his god-slayer master will also teach him many secret

techniques.

Purely in terms of martial arts, it was highly likely that his progress

will leave them in the dust.

"I sought you, Lily, to discuss our common understanding of the

increase in troublesome rivals. Don't you think it's about time we get

promoted to the rank of paladino?"

The red and blue knights both secretly harbored this common goal.

The two had contacted friends in Europe to aid in collecting

intelligence.

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Four years ago, Salvatore Doni was apparently entrusted with keeping

the "Book in Praise of David's Great Works." After tracking it down, they deduced that the current curator was Andrea Rivera. After

investigating the scheduled movements of Doni and his attendant,

they discussed how to come up with a plausible excuse to read the

book —

It stood to reason that the two of them would go read the grimoire

together.

However, they believed Kusanagi Godou needed supervision. Were

they to avert their gaze for a moment, he could very likely get into

another fight with a god, or get intimate with a new girl.

Hence they concluded they had to avoid situations where Godou was

neither supervised nor guarded.

In the end, they decided Erica would go to Italy while Liliana stayed

behind.

The two made a promise to bring back a copy of the grimoire's

essential passages. Of course, this was a promise that one could

easily go back on.

Nevertheless, Liliana still let Erica go instead of her —

As much as the silver-haired long time friend did not wish to admit,

the two of them had developed a trusting relationship over the

decade-plus they had known each other. No matter what, the two

were childhood friends bound by ill fate.

Permission to read was obtained from Salvatore one week ago.

After copying the grimoire, Erica returned to her family home in Milan

to receive instruction from her uncle, a current user of the spell words

of smiting.

She studied intensely as she received guidance from the great

predecessor.

Special training that only lasted a week. But this was no crash course.

In the past four years, Erica had continually trained in the mystic

ritual secretly. Now that she had a chance to study the grimoire in

detail, combined with the guidance of an excellent teacher, Erica's

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mastery was instantly bolstered. That said, this was a mystic ritual of

the highest difficulty.

Erica's spell words of smiting were still incomplete when she received

news that Athena had returned.

This prompted her to find a way to persuade her uncle who had

forbidden her to leave without mastering the technique. This was the

extent of Erica's recent exploits in Japan and Italy.

"What a guy who loves making trouble for others —!

Erica complained as a smile surfaced on her face.

This time the enemy was Athena. And a Divine Ancestor as well.

But were things any different, he would not be the youth that Erica

Blandelli loved. Because he was the born warrior, always accompanied

by strife at all times.

Erica ran alone as quickly as the wind across the Trans-Tokyo Bay

Highway.

Her intent was to draw the enemy away from Ena who was

exhausted, Yuri who could not fight, as well as Liliana.

The water dragon, which had assimilated Guinevere, flew after Erica.

Low altitude flying. It was at the height and distance such that a

swipe from its front claws could tear Erica apart. However, the dragon

did not make its first attack in that manner.

The white water dragon opened its gaping jaws and exhaled. This was

no ordinary breath.

Freezing wind carrying innumerable shards of ice. Any creature

devoured by this wind would be cruelly sliced apart and instantly

frozen into ice.

Deadly magical wind indeed. The breath of a terrifying dragon.

A direct hit would be critical. Erica stopped running and began to

chant spell words.

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This was no ordinary magic but the spell words of smiting, of course.

"And seven priests bearing seven trumpets of rams' horns before the

ark of the Lord went on continually, and blew with the trumpets: and

the armed men went before them!"[10]

Erica's body shone with sacred red light.

This light protected Erica, blocking the breath of ice. However, it still

felt exceptionally cold. Even though it managed to defend against the

shards of ice, the icy cold air still penetrated and invaded the sacred

light.

Erica's body was about to be frozen.

The chilly air not only made the bones tremble, it was cold enough to

freeze the bones. In spite of that, Erica gritted her teeth and

continued to chant.

"They compassed the city seven times. And it came to pass at the

seventh time, when the priests blew with the trumpets, Joshua said

unto the people, Shout; for the Lord hath given you the city —"[11]

Moreover, the water dragon's front limb was descending.

Four claws were on the paw, each as long and sharp as a sword.

Erica took Cuore di Leone which had been restored to its broad-bladed

form together with her shield and blocked the sharp claws. Her

breathing quickened as her concentration was almost disrupted.

Performing close quarter combat at the same time as using the spell

words of smiting proved to be extremely difficult after all.

"And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and

woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of

the sword."[12]

But Erica did not stop chanting.

10. Joshua 6:13

11. Joshua 6:15-16

12. Joshua 6:21

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Had there not been any disturbance, she would be able to use the

spell words of smiting all at once—

But if it was a spell that could not be completed without exposing

herself defenseless, then it would be worthless in actual combat.

Hence, desperately Erica brandished her sword and shield

desperately.

"Cursed before the Lord is the one who undertakes to rebuild this city,

Jericho: At the cost of his firstborn son he will lay its foundations; at

the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates."[13]

The spell words obtained from the book of David —

Erica's chant was complete.

Erica defended against the water dragon's breath and claws, the

occasional swipes from the long tail, the jaws densely lined with sharp

teeth, and charging impacts.

Then there was magical power. In order to unleash smiting, all of

Erica's magical power had to be put forth.

However, was she able to do that at the same time as she handled

these fierce attacks?

During the battle against the Great Sage, she had much more magical

power at her disposal thanks to Verethragna's protection. But now

was different. Nevertheless, she still had to —!

"Moreover, it's probably about time for reinforcements..."

Erica spoke softly as if encouraging herself.

Furthermore, she smiled as she anticipated the arrival of the arrow of

blue light.

It was for this express reason that Erica had distanced herself from

the rest of the girls. In order to wipe the other knight's existence from

the Divine Ancestor's awareness.

13. Joshua 6:26

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"People, listen to David's song of mourning! How are the mighty

fallen, and the weapons of war perished!"[14]

Liliana chanted spell words as she watched Erica's desperate battle

from afar.

She had expected this all along. That mystic rite could not have been

mastered within a single week — Liliana shrugged helplessly at her

rival and long time friend's bluffing.

"From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of

Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not

empty!"[15]

One hundred meters ahead on the road surface of the Trans-Tokyo

Bay Highway.

Enveloped in red light, Erica swung her sword, bearing her shield. The

white water dragon attacked from midair, blowing its tempestuous

and icy breath, flashing its claws and teeth.

The weapon that Liliana chose for this moment, was that one

naturally.

"O Bow of Jonathan, the warrior's weapon fast as an eagle and strong

as a lion. Come forth to my hand immediately!"

The bow and arrows composed of blue light.

Manifested in Liliana's hands were the weapons that could even cause

injury to gods. And of course it was applicable to divine beasts as

well! Just as Liliana closed one eye and was planning to aim at her

target...

"Ena-san, you cannot move yet!"

"It's okay... But if I need to use the sword again, I will be relying on Yuri..."

Yuri was trying to persuade Ena as she tried to stand up, using Ama

no Murakumo no Tsurugi as a crutch.

14. 2 Samuel 1:27

15. 2 Samuel 1:22

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The Hime-Miko was trying her hardest to cast recovery magic on the

divine sword user who had exhausted her strength.

This was not a spell for healing external wounds but one for healing

internal injuries. There were also quite a few types of recovery magic

which temporarily restored lost strength.

Repeated use of divine possession would eat away at the user's life.

Liliana recalled what Ena had told her before. Yuri surely understood

the frightening toll Ena's body had taken from using divine possession

two days in a row and even going berserk.

"Lilana-san... If it's just one strike, Ena can still do it, barely."

"If that is the case, then get it over with quickly and meet up with

Kusanagi Godou. There is no time to dally."

Knowing it was useless to try stopping her, Liliana readied her bow

and arrows once again.

The target was the water dragon in the distance that was giving Erica

a hard time. Two arrows of light should be sufficient for cover — no,

this was an attack meant to strike on target. Liliana shot the two

arrows with determination.

Ena also launched Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi as if throwing a

javelin.

An ordinary sword could not have been used in this manner, but

thanks to some mysterious blessing, the legendary sword flew

straight as a arrow.

Liliana had fired the Bow of Jonathan. Plus there was Ena's Ama no

Murakumo no Tsurugi.

The white water dragon that had been tormenting Erica became

aware of these attacks and conjured defensive magic. A pattern of

white light appeared before the water dragon, blocking the blue

arrows. Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was also deflected by a swipe

of the dragon's tail.

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These were not martial techniques that ordinary divine beasts could

use.

As befitted the dragon inhabited by a Divine Ancestor. Erica smiled

bravely as she admired the sight.

This was the lioness' smile, certain in victory.

Even though she had not expected the attacks just now to be

defended, Erica could not give the opponent any respite.

Deeply — She drew in a deep breath.

Erica let this breath diffuse throughout her body. All her cells began to

produce scorching heat as if incinerating. This was magical power,

producing strength that concentrated in the body's centre. In oriental

medicine, this spot would be the dantian below the navel. In terms of chakra, this would be the Swadhisthana.

Then she made it explode.

In the instant of activation, all magical power was poured into the

mystic rite.

Guinevere had shown a slight opening as a result. This became the

final step for completing the smiting...!

"Soldiers! Now is the moment to blow the horns at Jericho!"

Spell words were promptly added to facilitate the technique's

activation.

Smiting — the [Sacred Privilege of Extermination] inhabiting Erica.

From her body came red light that turned into physical force that sent

the white dragon flying.

"What!? How could this be possible—!"

"Gwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

Roaring sounds and Guinevere's voice came out of the dragon's

mouth simultaneously. She was shocked to be suddenly repelled by

the red light.

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Ignoring these noises, Erica manifested the Privilege of Extermination

into a visible form.

Armor. First of all, her upper torso was wrapped in chain mail. Next

there were the breastplate and pauldrons with the dull color of steel.

There were also sturdy gauntlets and greaves.

Covering up Erica Blandelli's beautiful face on the battlefield would

probably be classified as a crime. Consequently, this form was

chosen. Applying the Privilege of Extermination to the sword and the

shield, Erica's armaments were complete.

"Fear not, tremble not! Leading all the warriors, go attack the city!"

Erica released the spell words and flew into the sky.

Flying instead of leaping. The Sacred Exterminator was granted the

ability of brief flight.

Erica instantly flew up a hundred meters and looked down. The water

dragon carrying Guinevere had spread its wings, intending to take off

in flight.

Trying its hardest to pursue and attack. But it was too late.

"I hereby display the heart of the lion! Hence all knights shall fear me, singing praises unto me!"

The heart of the lion implied indomitable courage.

Using these spell words as a trigger, Erica was shining with red light

as she charged downwards in descent. Like the constellation of Leo,

descending from the heavens, attacking —!

Crashing violently into the white dragon, the enemy's massive body

was blown away.

Aiming at the throat, the sword was thrust. Slice, slice, slice, slice!

"Guh... What savagery! Looks like a retreat might be in order!"

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"Gwooooooooooooooooooooooooooh!!"

As Guinevere yelled out, refusing to admit defeat, the dragon gave off

mournful death cries.

Like the Kraken before, the divine beast's body reverted to water and

collapsed. At the same time, a white light flew out of its body, up

towards the sky.

Guinevere had fled — But Erica did not have any remaining strength

to pursue her.

Exhaling deeply, she watched the white witch flying in the sky. At the

same time, the mystic rite had also ended. Both the red light and the

armor had vanished while fatigue and exhaustion swept across her

entire body.

Her mind also felt dazed and unable to think properly.

Apart from when rising out of bed, who could have thought there

existed other circumstances that could lower Erica's intellect?

"This counts as a pass for today, but more training is definitely

needed..."

Erica shook her head as she murmured to herself.

Reportedly, her uncle Paolo Blandelli had used the same attack to

crush the ancient city of Lancaster. Furthermore, a mere day after

using the Sacred Exterminator's form, he achieved the legendary feat

of liberating the sleeping Princess Alice who was under the guard of

six divine beasts unleashed by the Three Furies, the Erinyes.

As his successor, Erica could not lag behind.

Nevertheless, the current priority was to catch up to Kusanagi Godou.

Erica endured the torments of her exhausted body and resolutely

walked towards her companions.

But every step proved to be most taxing.

Be that as it may, Erica could not expose her weakness when all eyes

were watching. After all, Erica Blandelli was glamorously graceful and

beautifully radiant at all times!

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Chapter VII

Farewell My Mortal Enemy

Part 1

"Ho... Thy vassal apparently clasheth with that man's maidservant."

Alone on this beach, just the two of them. Athena suddenly smiled.

Indicating that her duel with Kusanagi was about to begin.

"Maidservant? You mean Guinevere?"

"She hath a name like that? She is the witch of the ancient matriarch

deity, the inheritor of the Holy Grail."

In response to Godou's question, she gave a proper answer.

Athena was probably using some kind of clairvoyance to spy on

Guinevere's whereabouts. She probably wanted to guard against rude

interlopers from intruding on their fight.

Godou had expressly ordered Ama no Murakumo to inform him if the

other partner ran into any danger.

He had also reminded Ena to call the name of Kusanagi Godou in case

of a desperate situation, so that the [Wind] incarnation could be used

to save them. Currently, neither of them had given any notice.

Ena seemed to have put forth all her efforts to halt Guinevere's

advance.

"Isn't calling her 'maidservant' going a bit too far? Besides, who do

you mean by 'that man'?"

"He is the hero who standeth as the mortal enemy of god-slayers.

One knoweth not where he lieth. Be that as it may, he apparently

sleepeth somewhere on this island."

"...Could it be that guy, the strongest [Steel]?"

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Godou recalled what he heard before from that old bunch.

"Thou knowest? From that earlier attack, thou seemest to have

matured well."

"That's not maturing, it's called 'stepping deeper into the puddle.'

Anyway, to think Guinevere was actually hiding a side like that..."

Objecting to Athena's approval, Godou continued:

"So all her conspiracies and schemes to this date, were all for the

sake of reviving that guy?"

"Forsooth. Thou shouldst pay attention. That man is the warrior fated

to destroy all god-slayers. Were he to awaken, a war to exterminate

the Devil Kings shall begin. If that happens, surely thou shalt perish."

Godou could not help but object to this sudden declaration.

How could anyone be sure without trying? I may be a pacifist, but if

the other person comes murdering on his own initiative —

But then again, Athena's pubescent face had never shown such a

severe expression.

Faced with such solemnity, Godou had nothing to say. And so, the

corners of the goddess' mouth began to rise with delight.

"No matter, such words carry meaning only if thou art able to win our

duel... Didst thou know? Virtually no god-slayer hath ever come to a

peaceful end. The vast majority dieth on a battlefield somewhere.

Thou only needst to follow in the footsteps of thy kin of past!"

"If that's the case, I will become one of the few exceptions. Let's go!"

Their fighting spirit was quietly rising.

In that case, Godou will rely on these heightened spirits to engage in

battle. Athena glared sharply with her serpentine eyes once more as

Godou readied his battle stance. Just at that moment, a crash of

thunder was heard.

"Tsk! Thy arrival was expected, Lancelot du Lac!"

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Athena smacked her lips as she gazed up into the sky.

Thunderclouds were rapidly filling the sky and furthermore, a flash of

white lightning came flying from the direction of the Trans-Tokyo Bay

Highway.

'Beware! This fellow is pure [Steel] like me!'

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi warned from Godou's right arm.

The lightning carried all sorts of omens, announcing the extraordinary

visitor, mounted on his flying divine horse.

His body was wrapped in white armor. The helmet's lowered visor

obscured the face. Furthermore, wielded in his hand was a lustrous

lance with a platinum blade —

That kind of color and brightness had been witnessed the day before.

Was that not the same brilliance as the white star of [Swords]!?

"Hey, isn't that the...!?"

"Yes. Yonder fellow is indeed the war god Lancelot. As that man's

subordinate, the white maidservant's guardian. Furthermore, the

wielder of the [Sword] that seeketh to tear us into pieces!"

Athena nodded with displeasure as she answered Godou's immediate

query.

Lancelot. Isn't he the guy from the Knights of the Round Table?

An awe-inspiring manly voice was heard from above shocked Godou's

head.

"Athena. It is most pleasing to encounter you once again before your

life depletes. And god-slayer Kusanagi Godou. Though the goddess

has already introduced it, let this Knight's name be heard once more.

Lancelot du Lac. Commonly known as the Knight of the Lake."

"...I don't remember telling you my name."

Godou responded to the mighty self introduction with displeasure.

If this guy and Guinevere were the masterminds of the current

incident, there was no reason to trust him at all.

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"Apologies. This Knight had no intention of insulting you... Even

though forgiveness is unwarranted, apologies will still be expressed.

For the act of ambushing you from the dark, taking advantage of your

conflict as a third party. This kind of behavior is indeed an affront to

chivalry. Most regrettable."

What the heck was up with this guy? Godou was intrigued.

An extremely forthright disposition. A kind of wondrous charisma

similar to Verethragna when he had lost his memories—

"Hmph. Doth not be deceived. Even though yonder fellow is indeed a

soldier of upright principles, he is merely a fool who displayeth might

and valor for the maidservant's sake!"

"Perhaps. But all things considered, swords are that type of tool."

Lancelot agreed to Athena's accusation as he lightly kicked his

beloved steed's belly.

The white divine horse began to slowly descend to the beach.

"The so-called heroes of steel, are sword gods who express the

sword's attribute of living for battle only. Furthermore, this Knight has

sworn to offer one's blade to beautiful women only."

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi called Lancelot its kin.

Expressing nothing but an obsession with battle. This was likely the

trait of purebred steel.

"Fufufu. The knight indulges in rainstorms of bloodshed on the

battlefield, tempered by a dash of womanly charms. Unfazed by

mockery from others."

Despite his words, he did not give off the same impression as those

useless men that were infatuated with women. Rather, he seemed like

the type who demanded women of great quality, a Casanova who

deliberately sought challenging conquests.

Perhaps this was only fitting for a god's prestige?

"But who knows if either of you two would approve..."

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Lancelot's divine horse descended, its four feet landing on the beach.

Wielding the lance in one hand, Lancelot held a short pewter staff in

his off-hand. Shaped like a twin-headed snake, it was being fiddled

around lovingly as if it were a little flower.

"The Holy Grail's function has completely halted. Hmm... Even though

the beloved child already preserved the power taken from the vessel,

it is meaningless like this."

"In that case, war god, what dost thou wish to do?"

Athena displayed a goddess' solemnity as she spoke.

The child-like beautiful face glimmered lustrously from dignified battle

spirit. She issued an obvious challenge.

On the other hand, Lancelot muttered liberally.

"Hmm, no other way then. Your chest shall be cut open so that this

Knight can retrieve the Grail and do everything possible to awaken

this mighty unparalleled divine artifact."

An indifferent declaration of slaughter. True to form as a [Heretic

God], a fellow who could not be underestimated.

Godou tightly gripped his fist and glared at Lancelot.

"It seems like you two are having a duel of honor. Intruding in such a

match would be unbecoming of a knight. However, this Knight has

grown weary of waiting."

The white knight raised the lance's blade towards the sky.

His valor was apparent from this action. His rising battle spirit was

impossible to suppress.

"Guinevere had warned this Knight before getting involved. To wait

until you were both exhausted before killing either. However, a man

in possession of lance and horse should never have to act in such a

manner. Athena, this Knight's lance wishes to greet you with a cordial

welcome once more!"

"Very well! One shall exact from thee what thou owest, before taking

on Kusanagi Godou!"

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Athena's sharp serpentine eyes turned to Lancelot. Lancelot faced her

in turn with his white helmet.

Godou swiftly inserted himself between the two of them.

"Your opponent is not just Athena. Please let me participate in this

battle."

"Oh?"

"What dost thou wish, Kusanagi Godou?"

The white knight was shocked, while Athena questioned. Unfazed,

Godou continued.

"This is Athena and my duel after all. There's no rule preventing me

from helping drive out the intruder. Or rather, it can be said that this

is only natural."

"Natural? Hahaha, your words are truly interesting indeed!"

Lancelot's helmet shook in laughter in response to Godou's

declaration.

It was not mockery. His tone was clearly overjoyed and he was

laughing sincerely from the depths of his heart.

"God and god-slayer — irreconcilable foes fighting in cooperation, how

could that be called natural!? Be that as it may, one cannot help but

think as a warrior, it is impossible to reject. This Knight welcomes you

to the fray."

Lancelot nonchalantly accepted the two versus one battle.

Truly the war god, such magnanimity. However, his opinion was

actually not that important.

The problem was the haughty goddess. Turning his gaze to her,

Godou was shocked. Athena's face was filled with surprise.

"...Dost thou know? In battles past — what that group of people did

to vex that man so...?"

"—? What and what?"

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Godou frowned at the cryptic question.

"Anyway, I want to drive this guy out quickly. That's why I want to

fight together with you. Is that unacceptable?"

"No... One thinketh over it, this could very well be a good

opportunity."

The look of surprise vanished in an instant as Athena resumed a

dauntless expression immediately.

Godou began to wonder if he was imagining things.

"One hast instructed thee how to fight. Dost not become a burden!"

"Gonna say the same thing to you. I have more strength to spare

than someone who's half a patient!"

Together, Athena and Godou stared at the war god.

They had once fought each other with all their strength, and had also

traveled together. However, fighting side by side was a first

experience. Godou was now relieved.

Athena's extreme haughtiness had made him worry whether she

would accept the battle of two against one.

What could be the reason for her to accept fighting in cooperation?

Was it due to Lancelot being a formidable challenge, so she chose

efficiency over honor? Or was there some other reason?

No matter what, an unprecedented deadly battle was now beginning.

Part 2

"Kusanagi Godou, that fellow's divine sword poseth no threat for

now!"

Athena was the first to summon her favorite weapon, the grim

reaper's scythe.

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However, she did not change her height unlike previous battles,

retaining her pubescent form. Perhaps she was trying to control her

depletion of energy.

"A weapon that consumeth the earth's essence for nourishment. As

long as the Holy Grail in one's body remaineth inactive, that blade

cannot be swung."

"Oh? You've seen through it. How befitting of the goddess of wisdom."

Seen through by Athena, Lancelot offered praise from atop his mount.

Furthermore.

"In that case, there is no need to be swinging around Master's relic."

He tossed the lance into the air, sending the horrific weapon to the

opposite end of the clouds.

A barbed lance then materialized in Lancelot's hand.

"Hmm. This is more familiar after all. So, Athena, receive this Knight's lance!"

"Ha! One doth not believe this goddess shall lose to you in the arts of

war!"

And thus the war god and the goddess began engaging in close

quarter combat.

The mounted knight's white steed began to run, not at full speed, but

on the level of a leisurely trot.

It was running towards the scythe-wielding goddess Athena. Mounted

on his horse, Lancelot thrust his lance forward.

Once, twice, thrice. Godou was just able to see it clearly. However,

from that point onwards his eyes could no longer keep up with the

actions of the battling duo.

Like torrential rain that riddled the ground with holes, the raging

barrage of thrusts aimed at the pubescent goddess.

Athena evaded the attacks with the tiniest of movements as she

swung her grim reaper's scythe.

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Was she trying to overcome the enemy's mounted advantage— She

was swinging the scythe towards the white horse's front legs, chest

and neck. Furthermore, she even attacked Lancelot's legs on the

stirrups as well as the lance-wielding arm.

However, Athena's scythe was blocked on all occasions.

First of all, Lancelot's steed was exceptionally agile, jumping back

immediately whenever the blade approached. Or stepping lightly back

or to the side, skillfully changing defensive positions to let its master's

lance block Athena's scythe with ease. The rider and horse truly acted

as one.

Furthermore, Lancelot's armor was especially sturdy.

The white armor of iron essentially covered his entire body. Every

attack from Athena's jet-black scythe towards his arms and legs,

gauntlets and greaves, or breastplate were deflected.

"Make use of me, jump here!"

Godou yelled out as he ran forward.

In front of the white knight and divine horse. Even further ahead than

Athena and her swinging scythe.

"Ohoh. How brave of you to charge before a knight without even

drawing your sword!"

Lancelot was distracted for an instant.

Without failing to take advantage of this excellent opportunity, Athena

sprang into action. Leaping lightly into the air, she stepped onto

Godou's shoulder, using it as a platform for a second jump.

Leaping higher than Lancelot on his horse, Athena raised the scythe

up high.

"Death bestowed by the underworld deity, infused into this blade!"

A full powered attack carrying spell words smashed into the white

knight's chest.

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It was not deflected this time. The jet-black blade penetrated lightly

into the white breastplate. Near the area where the blade was

embedded, corrosion began to spread.

"Ooh—!"

Lancelot's upper torso shook violently.

This single action made the scythe fall off from the breastplate while

Athena's body was also sent flying as if she were crafted out of paper.

In a direct frontal confrontation, the knight god did not seem to

approach the goddess of war. Seeing Athena land like a cat, Godou

readied his stance.

The war god's next target was obviously himself!

"It is customarily in war for mounted warriors to bypass infantry.

Though this is slightly unorthodox, exceptions will be made for the

god-slayer!"

Yelling out, Lancelot patted the side of the white horse's neck.

With a loud neigh, the white divine horse stood up on its hind legs.

Now freed, its front legs swung at Godou's head.

A fierce horse's horseshoes were weapons rivaling iron hammers.

Thus the two iron hooves descended.

Furthermore, it was no ordinary horse despite its ordinary-looking

build, but a divine beast. Even a Campione's unreasonably sturdy

body would be easily crushed by this exceptional kicking power—!

Godou immediately raised his arms to defend like a boxer.

Before the hooves of the divine horse, Godou could not expect too

much from this paper-thin defense. However.

Clang! The strange noise of metal clashing was heard.

Godou's arms were currently as hard as steel. At the same time, he

possessed unyielding strength that allowed him to hold his ground

against the full force of a divine horse's trampling.

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"Iron arms bearing peerless strength! Is that your authority!?"

Lancelot made a thrust with his lance.

It was too fast to see clearly. However, it probably aimed for Kusanagi

Godou's head. Using a Campione's instincts for victory, Godou

guarded his face with his right arm.

Clang! The same strange sound was heard again. It was the sound of

his palm blocking the lance.

"Couldn't you have told me beforehand properly..."

'My assisting you? It's only expected!'

As Godou grumbled, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi replied through

thoughts.

When facing an enemy's overwhelming strength, Verethragna's

second incarnation, the [Bull], provided monstrous might.

Furthermore, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had the ability to absorb

the authorities of gods and Campiones, lending power to Godou.

What had been absorbed here was the sturdiness of the white armor.

Consequently, Godou's arms had obtained the hardness of steel,

together with the [Bull]'s monstrous strength infused.

Godou furiously swung his left arm, striking at the white horse's

chest.

An improvised left hook. Except that this iron fist could probably

demolish a four or five-story commercial-residential building.

Perhaps aware of the punch's power, Lancelot's divine horse jumped

back a great distance.

"So that is how it is... Kusanagi Godou. Thou hast probably procured

a rather useful tool — of steel's kind."

Athena remarked, having been thrown back into the distance just

now.

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Instead of approaching where Godou and the war god were

positioned, she knelt down where she had landed, striking the sand

with her hand.

"Marry! In that case, one hath no choice but to exhibit a mother earth

goddess' power!"

Immediately, an earthquake occurred.

Violent tremors. The beach battlefield was intensely shaking.

Godou's sense of balance was overcome and he had to fall back on his

hands and knees. Had this earthquake occurred in towns and cities,

many homes would likely have collapsed.

Rumble rumble rumble rumble — the quake was on a scale where one

could vaguely hear the actual ground sounding out.

On the other hand, Lancelot remained upright despite the conditions.

Splendidly controlling his steed without losing to the cataclysmic

event. No, not only that, his divine horse had leaped into the air and

started flying.

"...Right, he arrived here by flying just now."

Continuing to lie prone on the ground, Godou muttered.

Lancelot and the divine horse's rapid ascent was like a rocket's

takeoff, speeding up towards the clouds. In that case, the earthquake

became meaningless.

However, just as Godou wondered, Athena stood up all of a sudden.

"Hohohoho... Knight of the Lake. Thou mayst perchance be a peerless

knight upon the earth. However, how dost thou fare in the sky!?"

As the shaking of the ground subsided, Athena smiled fearlessly as

wings sprouted from her back.

Brown wings, covered with countless spotted patterns, rather than

pure white feathers like an angel's. I see. Godou understood as he

stood up.

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Athena's forms were not limited to the snake. Those were wings of an

owl.

The sacred bird that flew freely in the night sky. The symbol of

wisdom. Moreover, the messenger of death from the underworld. The

form of the goddess' favorite bird of prey!

"O Night. 'Tis the time ruled by the queen of the underworld.

Respondest to one's invitation and lowerest the curtains of the sky!"

Athena commanded the sky as she pointed with her index finger.

The brightness vanished in an instant. The morning sun was occluded,

turning day into night.

If this cataclysmic event had only occurred on this beach, it would

probably be easier to cover up the truth— Godou could not help but

try praying to something other than gods.

"Oh. Is this the darkness invoked by the queen of the sky, the earth

and the underworld!? In that case, this Knight shall summon lightning

as comrades-in-arms, it is only natural to return the favor!"

Lancelot's voice came from above. At that moment, white light

flashed repeatedly, tearing through the night sky.

It was produced by the thunderclouds summoned when white knight

first appeared. Even though battles between gods and Campiones

were very far-fetched, internal strife between gods were equally

ridiculous or even more so—

Godou expressed utter surprise at the series of cataclysmic events. It

was really too ridiculous.

Unaware of such thoughts in Godou, Athena spread her owl wings and

took off. Gliding smoothly as if skating on ice, she crossed the night

sky.

"One's feathered wings may be regarded as the avian ruler of the sky,

war god!"

"If that is the case, then savor this Knight's lightning, goddess!"

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As lightning repeatedly flashed and exploded across the night sky, the

stage was set for the gods' intense confrontation to transition to an

aerial battle.

Lancelot and his divine horse simply flew in straight lines.

Charging at the goddess like an arrow, targeting her with straight

thrusts from the lance. Both the knight and his beloved steed were

enveloped in flashing lightning and cracking thunder.

Banking gracefully, Athena avoided the charging attack.

That smooth flowing trajectory was like the movements of a seabird

engaged in a hunt. As if targeting shoals of fish beneath the sea,

diving silently to strike with its beak—

"As expected. The sky is not thy domain. Thou art full of openings!"

Athena circled around to Lancelot's back as she dodged the attack.

Held in her slender and beautiful hands were a silver bow and arrows.

The sight of Athena firing the arrow was reminiscent of another Greek

goddess, Artemis the huntress.

"Hahaha. Perhaps you are right. Who knows if this Knight was born

clumsy, but flying was never learned properly. However, this is not

enough to strike this Knight down!"

True to his words, Lancelot and his divine horse evaded in a V-shape

and managed to escape the arrow shot from behind.

The abrupt and forceful change of trajectory stood in stark contrast

against Athena's graceful turns.

His flying speed also slowed down. Targeting this, Athena drew the

bow once again. The second arrow struck Lancelot's white helmet, but

was deflected with a loud clang.

Discovering the goddess' intentions, Godou nodded.

A battle on land favored the knight. But in the air they were equals.

Firing arrows with her silver bow, Athena was an owl gliding across

the night sky, gracefully flying in silence.

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In contrast, Lancelot's strengths did not lie in flying.

He probably could not fly in anything but straight lines (basically

tracing out parabolas).

Consequently, he could only change directions using V-shaped

maneuvers. Even though his top speed could catch up to Athena, he

was forced to slow down when making turns, and was thus unable to

maintain any advantage.

That said, his exceptionally sturdy armor meant that he was not at a

disadvantage either—

"But then again, if they continue buzzing over my head and flying

around, I can't help at all."

Godou grumbled as he looked up at the aerial battle.

His arms of iron bearing monstrous strength could not reach that

height... No, could he figure out a way? Then the problem became

finding a suitable projectile. Just as Godou began to search the

beach...

"War god Lancelot... This goddess is aware that one's weapons have

been unable to destroy thy steel. Nevertheless, this arrow is different.

It looketh like an arrow but arrow it is not. 'Tis the temptation of

death, released for the sake of the underworld's queen. Namely, 'tis

death itself."

Athena flew casually to evade Lancelot's charge as she circled around

the white knight's head as she called out.

The goddess' right hand placed the arrow onto the silver longbow.

The arrow's fletchings were made of owl feathers. The arrowhead was

carved out of obsidian. All were products of Stone Age.

"Heroes of steel are indeed immortal on the battlefield. However,

what of pestilence? Or perhaps, faced with termination from old

age!?"

Athena's fingers released the arrow. The obsidian arrowhead flew at

Lancelot below!

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Just at that moment, the white knight and the divine horse

disappeared.

Godou saw the black arrow trace across the sky fruitlessly, falling

onto the beach. Furthermore, the surroundings were suddenly

covered by exceptionally dense mist.

"W-What is this?"

'Lancelot must have used the protection of immortality.'

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi responded to Godou's surprise.

'That fellow seems to have melded into the mist to seek refuge. Mist

can neither be pierced nor severed. Even curses cannot take effect.

Well, it can still be dispersed by storm winds.'

"If that guy is hidden in the mist then that means he can ambush

Athena and me?"

'Impossible. Pure-blooded [Steel] will not do anything underhanded of

that sort. The level of nocturnal or morning assaults is the limit. If not

glorious to the very end, our kind's battles are always intense as

lightning. When that fellow switches to offense once more, the mist

shall surely disperse.'

A similar kindred spirit after all? It almost sounded as the sword was

talking about itself.

In that case, conversely, there will be some respite before the knight

returned from the mist. A certain notion surfaced in Godou's mind. He

had to find that thing now. Where on earth was it?

In thick mist with visibility less than 5m, he could only rely on a

Campione's instincts.

A god's movements — searching for divine power, Godou began to

concentrate.

A huge mass of power was swirling high in the air. That must be

Athena.

At the same time, somewhere in the air precipitated a weak power.

Perhaps it was Lancelot in his mist form. I see. Once he could be

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sensed in this manner, there were no more concerns of a surprise

attack.

Further more, there was one more presence.

Even closer than the gods in sky, there was something else that had

fallen to the ground.

It was fine as long as it had not sunk into the sea. Godou began

walking in the mist, seeking the presence of divine power. Luckily, his

search bore fruit in a matter of minutes.

"—So cold!?"

Picking it up from the beach, Godou was shocked. This was even

colder than dry ice.

"In that case, this is actually a very dangerous object..."

Godou broke out in cold sweat.

Were he not bearing arms of iron, he might have suffered already?

The effects were probably not as simple as cold burns. Definitely

would have suffered more severe injuries... Just as Godou shuddered,

the mist dispersed in an instant.

'It's coming, King! That fellow has entered the thunderclouds. The

next strike intends to annihilate that mother earth goddess — no, all

of us!'

Godou knew without needing the divine sword's warning.

The sky was filled with dark clouds as before. However, not a single

flash of lightning could be seen.

He must be storing power. Godou realized.

Instincts of a Campione, or perhaps experience gained from various

hellish trials, allowed him to understand immediately.

Godou sought out the position of Athena who should still be in the

sky.

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Found her. Slowly flapping her owl wings, she was hovering in the

night sky.

However, the young and beautiful face was tense with deathly

determination, and her glare was as sharp as a ferocious bird of prey.

She already knew it was a decisive moment.

Godou hurried and ran over in Athena's direction.

Part 3

Alas. An excellent battle—

With great satisfaction, Lancelot savored the thrill of battle he had

missed greatly.

He was currently hidden within the thunderclouds. Lightning crackled

and popped in his surroundings, exploding, raging. A most familiar

scene.

Having turned into mist together with the white divine horse, they

had made their way here.

Protecting his favorite woman was not disagreeable, but it was

insufficient to satisfy his hunger. Other than the battlefield, no other

place allowed him to fully apply his skills and talents.

Pursuing this way of life even into bitter death, the implements of war

and horse could not be done without.

He had guarded the Witch Queen, the Divine Ancestor, for over a

millennium. Along the way, he had also offered minor assistance to

witches who had attained the pinnacles of heaven and earth.

Spending his days in this manner could not be considered unhappy.

However, would a raging warrior who charged on the battlefield be

satisfied with such a life? No, impossible.

Lancelot could feel his body and mind awakening.

"Having a god and a god-slayer as opponents, displaying the valorous

might against unfavorable odds of two against one. Now that is a

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man's long-cherished wish. Hohoho, this Knight is reminded of battles

past."

Lancelot soliloquized and looked down at the world beneath him once

more.

Using the mind's eye he located two "presences."

Namely, the goddess Athena and the god-slayer Kusanagi Godou.

Both were amazingly roused in battle spirit.

"One would really like to enjoy a duel like this for eternity. Be that as it may, it is not this Knight's style. Time to gallop forth."

The dim mist vanished. Spurring the white divine horse onwards,

Lancelot restored the valorous form of the knight.

Within the thundercloud, Lancelot lightly caressed his partner's neck.

"This Knight's incomplete form probably cannot endure battle beyond

this. If this joy of battle were to be savored for too long, this Knight's

heart will begin to lose composure. Perhaps it would hasten the arrival

of the day when the beloved child shall be abandoned. Indeed, it is

about time for the tide to ebb."

Finishing his muttering, Lancelot instantly made his divine power

incinerate.

Last time, the lightning infused meteor crash had defeated Athena.

For the sake of this full powered attack at maximum speed...

He had already began preparations when he turned into mist.

In order to reach lightning speed — god speed, a great amount of

lightning needed to be absorbed.

Which was why he had entered the thunderclouds.

"In this current state, a single charge at maximum speed will probably

deplete all energy. Failure means defeat and repeating the past. One

shall charge with care."

Reminding himself, he lightly kicked the divine horse's abdomen.

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First Athena shall be pierced in the sky, and then Kusanagi Godou

shall be flattened on the ground. Having thus decided, the white

knight and divine horse instantly descended from the sky with

lightning speed.

Turning into a white meteor flying out of the thunderclouds—!

Knowing Lancelot was coming, Godou ran at full speed.

Meanwhile, Athena had suddenly stopped at a certain position in the

air, and called out spell words.

"Aegis of the Gorgon, defendest this goddess to the death!"

The silver longbow previously held in her hand had transformed into a

massive shield.

A rectangular shield large enough to cover the entire body of

pubescent Athena. The shield's surface was carved with a design in

the likeness of the snake demoness Medusa.

Lifting the shield high towards the sky, Athena readied her defensive

posture.

Abandoning her weapon and taking out the shield. She must have

decided she would be struck down immediately otherwise. Was this

still the great and aggressive goddess!?

In the instant of Godou's surprise, the white flash descended.

With hardly any time elapsed, Lancelot and the divine horse collided

with Athena.

What amazing speed. Indeed it was a descent of god speed as fast as

lightning!

Riding the galloping white divine horse, Lancelot made a thrust of the

barbed lance with one hand, using the other hand to hold a rhombic

shield. Over his armor was a combat surcoat. Flawlessly armed to the

teeth.

Furthermore, his entire body was giving off the light of electricity.

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Bringing astounding heat and shockwaves, this was exceptional

destructive power.

With her massive shield, Athena blocked this attack like a canopy

guarding the earth.

The tip of Lancelot's lance pierced into the Gorgon's shield, trying to

dig through. However, with Medusa's protection, the defensive

equipment squeaked as it resisted—

"Gwooh! An astounding attack as ever!"

"What! This Knight professes admiration. Twice you have blocked my

maximum speed full powered charge, as befits one along the lineage

of the matriarch deity, and the goddess of war!"

The war god and the goddess who blocked his rapid descent were

locked in a standstill.

It was a battle of strength in the divine realm, comparable to a violent

impact between a meteorite and the earth's surface.

Nevertheless, it seemed like Lancelot had the advantage? Godou felt

anxious.

It was readily apparent that Athena was halting the white knight's

descent with all her strength. Conversely, Lancelot gave the

impression that he had yet to go all out.

Were Lancelot to strike the ground, it would result in a tragic disaster

on the level of a massive meteorite impact.

Certain in this belief, Godou raised his arms above his head.

The war god and the goddess were clashing about a hundred meters

in the air above.

Then there was no problem. Godou was originally a baseball player;

moreover, he had been a catcher with a strong throw.

On many occasions, too many to count, he had foiled base-stealing

attempts of fast runners. Godou had absolute confidence in the speed,

power and accuracy of his pickoffs.

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Furthermore, he still had the monstrous strength provided by

Verethragna's [Bull].

In that case, his pitch will surely reach its target. Besides, Lancelot

and Athena were hovering motionlessly in one spot, pushing each

other at full strength.

In terms of sumo wrestling, this would be the grappling phase. A

perfect target. Evasion would be impossible!

"Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

Godou yelled as he threw the piece of obsidian.

It was the arrow that Athena had fired but Lancelot had dodged by

turning into mist. This was the arrowhead portion that Godou had

ripped off. That lovely thing Godou had been searching for in the mist.

Stone. This was probably the most primitive weapon humans ever laid

their hands on.

No matter what situation, a stone could be used to strike as a weapon

simply by holding it in one's hand. If thrown, it was an excellent

projectile.

Godou initially intended to throw the concrete blocks that were being

used as wavebreakers on the beach. With his current monstrous

strength, acting as a catapult was a simple task.

However, he remembered the white armor's sturdiness as well as the

arrowhead's matter.

Throwing as hard as he could, the piece of obsidian was launched

towards the sky. Right on target, it struck the white helmet of

Lancelot while he clashed his lance against Athena's shield, trying to

overpower her.

"Gufu! This was the earlier...!?"

"Ohoh! Superbly done, Kusanagi Godou."

In that very instant, Lancelot expressed shock as Athena offered

praise.

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The obsidian shattered into a thousand fragments, scattering inside

the knight's armor. Furthermore, a black amorphous shadow

manifested, entangling itself around Lancelot's shoulder and back.

This blackness was equivalent to death itself.

Even more pitch-black than the surrounding night sky, a Campione's

senses knew.

A shadow darker than black night. This was true darkness surpassing

aphotic black.

Expressly prepared for the purpose of sending Lancelot to his grave,

most likely. In any case, it was like the time when Athena was

prepared to rouse a dormant volcano for the sake of exterminating

Perseus.

"Guh, oooooooooooooooooooh!"

Lancelot roared like a wild beast.

It was a sound similar to a lamenting wail. A loud scream that

expressed suffering far greater than a cry of pain.

Godou could sense that the divine power released by the white knight

had substantially weakened. Most likely his strength and endurance

had been eroded completely.

This strength was probably what the knight had used to power his

meteoric descent.

Athena, just about to reach the limits of her strength and be sliced

apart, forcefully used her shield to push Lancelot and his lance back

and summoned spell words.

"Medusa, one of this goddess' avatars! The time cometh to restrain

this enemy!"

The snake demon's likeness had been carved onto the great shield.

Despite being a beautiful maiden, countless snakes instead of hair

grew out of her head.

Shining with golden brilliance, her eyes glared at the weakened war

god Lancelot and his white divine steed!

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Instantly, the divine steed was turned into stone, from a vigorous

white horse into a statue of a galloping horse. Lancelot's left arm, left

leg and armor were also petrified at the same time.

The battle was decided, right—

This thought only crossed Godou's mind for an instant before he

changed his mind. Even though an arm, a leg and the white horse had

been petrified, the knight did not stop charging. He continued to clash

against the Gorgon's shield.

For the goal of skewering Athena and flattening Kusanagi Godou to

the ground!

"This resolute resistance on the verge of death, deserveth one's

praise indeed! But war god, dost thou have a way to overturn this

unfavorable situation!?"

"Ooohmmm... That other one..."

Lancelot replied in feeble moans to Athena's call.

He was originally in an abnormal state already. Enduring [Death] from

the underworld deity and deprived of power, even moving a single

finger felt exhausting. All movements felt like heavy burdens.

He also felt colder than anything else.

This sort of coldness could probably be savored only in the instant

before one froze to death.

What a blessing it would be to simply lie down and die just like that.

Nevertheless, Lancelot did not halt his charge, pouring forth what

remained of his divine power into the petrified beloved steed, forcing

his left arm and leg to move, continuing to act as a white meteor.

It was truly hard to believe. His body was clearly in such a state, yet

his heart continued to yearn for battle!

Perhaps it was precisely this perilous situation that incited him to fight

forcefully like scattering sparks. This was a knight's talent, the style of

the warrior —!

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"This Knight apologizes for the earlier rudeness. One had no intention

of deceiving you..."

"Hmm?"

As Athena expressed surprise while she pushed against him, Lancelot

continued clashing against the Gorgon's shield.

Rather, his current situation would be more accurately described as

"falling." At the same time, he turned his gaze up towards the air. To a place even further beyond the clouds. Where the object of his

attentions was currently hovering.

"One originally thought it unnecessary for this battle, so it was cast

aside. With no ulterior motives, this cannot be helped for there is no

other trump card. Surely you are unable to block in that direction,

hence, this Knight shall take advantage of that!"

"War god, couldst thou..."

Athena's beautiful face clearly showed she understood. Nevertheless,

it was too late.

The divine lance that had been tossed into the sky before the battle.

Even if the blade had slipped off the thunderclouds, it remained

motionless, hovering in midair still.

However, summoned by the thoughts of the wielder it was magically

bound to, it began to stir.

Lancelot began chanting in secret.

—Come, Divine Sword of Salvation. The sacred sword that brings

stars to fall.

The platinum blade fell from the distant sky.

And stabbed directly into Athena's defenseless back.

The goddess began to weaken as her life force was absorbed,

becoming like Lancelot. She had already depleted most of her

remaining strength in the current battle. Using such a body to block

the white meteor, she likely lacked spare capacity to defend against

the Divine Sword of Salvation.

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In the instant the brilliant blade struck, golden light erupted all at

once from Athena's body.

Part 4

The Holy Grail's creation was almost fifteen hundred years ago.

However, the Divine Sword of Salvation had existed even before that.

The king who manifested at the end of ages — was the war god who

was the divine sword's original user. What did that imply?

In other words, even without the Grail, the Divine Sword of Salvation

could still be used.

Before Guinevere's previous incarnation and Lancelot had joined

under his command, the "King of the End" had already wielded the

divine blade countless times.

The Divine Sword of Salvation was fueled by the life force of the

earth—

So before the Holy Grail existed, how was it provided to the sword?

The answer was simple. The "King of the End," strongest amongst

[Steel], provided it himself.

So-called heroes of steel were themselves warriors who fought

against the mother earth goddesses. In the myths, they defeated

desperate mother earth goddesses who had turned into dragons and

snakes, thereby obtaining power. Furthermore, they would often take

as their lovers or supporters the mother earth goddesses who had

been reduced to the form of young girls.

The majority of [Steel] possessed the attribute of exploiting the earth.

In that sense, it was only natural for Him to be called the strongest man. In fact, there was no other war god who could surpass him in

this domain.

The so-called Holy Grail, was the divine artifact offered to the "King of the End" for the purpose of lessening his labors.

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For the first time, Lancelot imitated his former master's authority of

exploitation.

"For this Knight's victory, one beseeches. Grant unto this Knight

permission to plunder the sacred!"

Lancelot never expected to develop such a relationship, fighting

alongside that man on the battlefield, riding shoulder to shoulder.

How he gathered power, how he fought, everything was etched

clearly in Lancelot's memory.

Furthermore, Lancelot was also [Steel]. He believed he could surely

achieve the same thing. Gambling upon this belief he yelled out the

spell words — and it worked as expected.

Golden light was bursting out of Athena's slender body.

This brilliant splendor was the mother earth goddess' essence, life

force of the purest form beyond compare.

The Divine Sword of Salvation absorbed it and began to awaken. This

was followed by an explosion of golden light. Life force flowed out

from Athena's body as if dynamite had exploded.

Between Athena and the Divine Sword of Salvation, a "pathway" had

been established towards Lancelot.

The "pathway" for absorbing life force from the goddess who

embodied the earth was rather narrow and weak. Imitation was

merely imitation after all. The difference in the ability compared to the

original possessor was immensely vast.

However, this was sufficient to use the divine sword—

Blown back by the explosion of golden light, Lancelot nodded.

Transmitting his thoughts, he summoned the Divine Sword of

Salvation to return.

Meanwhile, Athena crashed towards the earth.

Whether the white meteor whose descent was halted or the flying

winged goddess, both were blown away by the explosion of golden

light.

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"Damn. Was she defeated!?"

Godou yelled as he ran towards where Athena was free-falling.

He made it at least. Just barely before she hit the beach, he caught

her in his arms.

Even though it was the slender body of a young girl, having fallen

from such a height up in the sky, Godou would probably not have

caught her so easily without the [Bull]'s strength.

"...'Tis most unfavorable, Kusanagi Godou. Yonder blade shall attack

us once more..."

Held in Godou's arms, Athena moaned as she spoke.

This was his first time to witness the goddess' face showing

vulnerability commensurate with her pubescent appearance.

In addition, his arm cradling her back was wet. With blood. Blood was

flowing from the wound in her back and the owl's wings had already

vanished.

"Did Lancelot do this?"

"Yes. 'Tis no easy feat for thee to have sealed the Holy Grail. But that fellow is using his own power to absorb this goddess' life. If one were

not injured, that kind of undeveloped authority, should more or less

hath been resisted..."

She no longer had the strength to proudly raise her head up high.

Athena leaned powerlessly against Godou as she whispered. Just as

Godou was overwhelmed with surprise at the unusual situation, he

saw a white sun shining in the sky.

It was currently night. Night forcefully summoned by Athena.

However, the white star hovered in midair, illuminating the area

brightly.

"...For one's full powered attack at maximum speed to be blocked for

the very first time, you deserve this Knight's praise, Athena. Young

god-slayer, Lancelot is delighted to be able to fight you!"

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Furthermore, a muttering voice, as gloomy as a dead ghost's, could

be heard.

Lancelot must have landed at some point in time. His left arm and left

leg petrified, the white knight stood a couple dozens of meters ahead.

He was speaking in a cheerless and commanding tone, yet his entire

body expressed delight in battle.

Probably because he no longer had the strength to talk cheerfully.

Lancelot was also covered in wounds. However, that lance — his hand

held the Divine Sword of Salvation. He still held the overwhelming

advantage.

"A long drawn-out battle is not this Knight's style. Let the conclusion

be reached right here. O Sword, split apart the earth!"

In response to the spell words, the white star released a flash of

bright light that resembled a laser beam.

Godou gritted his teeth. He had not wanted to use this incarnation

due to its time restrictions. Nevertheless, for the sake of the overall

situation, there was no choice now!

Verethragna's seventh incarnation, the [Raptor]. This meant

abandoning his current great strength, but Godou obtained god speed

movement and perception in return.

Godou embraced Athena as he dodged sideways, managing to evade

the flash of light.

"That sort of speed had been seen yesterday already. Hohoho, do you

really think this Knight would have no skill to counter it?"

Lancelot was completely unfazed.

Godou was certain. Even if Lancelot did not bother to scrutinize

Kusanagi Godou's every move, he could still discern them as if he was

watching from the sky, far above.

Even if Godou completely unleashed god speed, it felt like his moves

will be seen through completely—

Godou was filled with unease. How... No, there was no mistake. That

guy must be able to use the mind's eye. The divine skill that Luo

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Cuilian and Salvatore Doni had mastered after undergoing harsh and

grim trials!

If Godou moved recklessly, he would be sliced apart in an instant.

However, if he stayed still he would still be shredded like a carrot.

Cold sweat flowed down his back. What should he do? He cannot

despair at a time like this. Think!

"...Believe in this goddess, runnest. Even Lancelot's great sword, thou

canst surely evade it."

Athena whispered softly.

Was it a divine oracle, or the devil's temptation? Fu. Godou drew in a

deep breath. There was no need to doubt. By this point, they were

already in the same boat.

In the instant the white star began firing blades of light again, Godou

jumped backwards.

Seen through. Seen through. This certain belief filled his mind.

Godou's every movement after entering god speed had been

completely captured by Lancelot. No matter how he moved, how he

dodged, he will be sliced all the same—!

However, the white light missed its mark. Piercing emptiness, it

tunneled through the sand.

"Oh, this. Summoning darkness for this purpose, how thoughtful."

Lancelot grumbled.

Godou's instincts were correct. The [Raptor]'s god speed was roughly

on the same level as the shining sword of light. In a pure race of

speed, either could win depending on circumstances. However,

Lancelot's mind's eye should allow him to slice Godou apart despite

his god-like speed.

"Be reassured. Let this goddess' darkness disrupt Lancelot's vision for

now. But a knight of that caliber should be able to adjust soon

enough..."

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Hearing Athena's whispers, Godou understood.

Darkness was essentially something that robbed creatures of their

sight apart from a portion of nocturnal animals.

Letting night descend and disrupting others' vision was also part of

Athena's authority. In that case, even the clarity of the war god's

vision could be disrupted. This was why Godou was able to dodge the

white sword.

Did she summon the darkness of night in anticipation of a crisis like

this?

"Well then, quantity shall be used instead to obtain victory... It is

going to be messy, but please understand."

But Lancelot immediately responded in that manner.

The star up high began to fire off light again, but this time the white

light was shaped into balls of lightning instead of beams of light.

Two meters in diameter or so. Flying at lightning speed. Four of these

balls of lightning had appeared.

Flying towards Kusanagi Godou and Athena from four different

directions.

"Come on, could he attack with any less composure!?"

The divine knight probably loved getting into action quickly and

decisively.

Godou grumbled to himself as he watched out for the balls of

lightning attacking from four directions, namely, straight up, from the

left and right, and the last one diagonally above.

He would only be unscathed if he dodged them all at once. Judging

thus, Godou made a great jump backwards.

Roughly a distance of ten meters or so. The [Raptor] conferred

lightness of body like a bird. The balls of lightning descended upon

Godou and Athena's last position.

But they immediately changed directions to pursue the prey that hand

retreated, chasing them down with lightning speed.

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Godou unleashed god speed to the max, and sped across the beach.

If he stopped for a single moment he would have been struck by any

of the balls of lightning.

From the eyes of an ordinary person, the current scene must have

seemed quite horrifying yet fantastical.

Something unidentified was running around with the speed of

lightning. Some object, whose silhouette could not even be seen, was

endlessly flying everywhere, shuttling between light and electricity

that scattered like sparks—

However, there were no observers of this battle. The only ones aware

of this strange situation were the participants.

Particularly maddening for Godou was the fact that Lancelot did not

recklessly squander the divine sword. He did not use the life force

absorbed from Athena to engage in wasteful rapid fire, but was using

the balls of lightning efficiently instead. Had he been recklessly

performing wasteful attacks, Godou would have found an opening!

Godou desperately escaped from the balls of lightning that encircled

him like a net.

If Athena had not disrupted Lancelot's vision, Godou would have been

sliced apart many times over already.

"Pressured so much... Impossible to counterattack."

Godou grumbled softly as he ran.

Once Lancelot's eyes grew accustomed to the darkness, he would

slice Godou into two with one strike. Hence it was imperative to

mount an offense before that. But then how should he attack?

Even though his arms were as hard as iron, they did not seem like

they could crush that white armor.

All things considered, the prototype was Lancelot's own sturdiness. At

best, Godou's arms would just be on the same level of hardness.

"Asking wouldn't hurt. If you absorbed my [Raptor], would it help

right now?"

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'No good. Or rather, it cannot be done. Absorbing your active

authority will be exceptionally painful. It will become unusable for

several days.'

The question directed at Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi obtained an

expected answer.

Godou did not give up. He knew that if it could help, this meddlesome

sword would have acted on its own accord already.

"This goddess has a plan, Kusanagi Godou."

A voice that sounded like it came from far away. When moving at god

speed, that was how Godou perceived other people's voices.

Obviously, these was Athena's whispers.

Godou was surprised by her sudden call to him. The content of her

proposal was even more shocking. Shouldn't there be limits to

recklessness? However, Godou understood the instant he finished

listening.

Ah, I see. This deity truly lived to the name of the great goddess of

war—

Godou thought to himself. As a result, he replied almost instantly.

"...Ah, okay then."

Godou embraced Athena with his right arm as he ran back and forth

all over the place.

Causing not only himself but also everything he carried to lose their

weight, this was the [Raptor]'s unique skill.

The goddess entrusted her entire weight over and leaned her head

against Godou's face. He could not see her current expression, but he

was certain.

Athena must be smiling with satisfaction right now.

Godou silently moved his hand to touch her slender back and began

to caress gently. Then he penetrated deeply.

"Guuh—!"

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Athena began to make brief moans. Beads of sweat appeared from

the pain.

Ignoring these signs, Godou spread open his palm embedded inside

the goddess' body.

There was no bleeding. Neither was there an open wound on the

goddess' beautiful back. Godou's hand had been invited into Athena's

body by her own will.

Right arm. Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. The mortal enemy's hand

which contained tabooed steel.

"The sword which claimeth the power of heretical outsider foes for its

own use... One shall infuse the life force and energy of this great

mother earth goddess into this fellow. Combined with one's secret

arts, the blade that spliteth apart heaven and earth shall be forged...!

Goest forth and claim thy victory, god-slayer!"

Athena endured the pain as she whispered in a hazy voice.

The divinity of steel that was in conflict with the mother earth

goddesses. It must have been exceptionally painful for such an

existence to enter her body.

"Thou mentioned earlier. Of seeking a way to save this goddess in the

Netherworld. Hohoho, to be honest, that is the one and only path of

survival. Abandoning one's heretical traits, becoming a hermit in the

Boundary of Life and Immortality. In that case, one's connection to

the earth will be severed, and the link to the Holy Grail shall also

vanish..."

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Bearing this torment, Athena resolutely bore a smile.

"Or perchance, one wondereth of choosing another path...

Nevertheless, since things have developed to this state, this goddess

no longer hath a choice after all. Rather than have Athena abandon

the ways of Athena, one prefereth to seek an end worthy this

goddess."

Godou halted his footsteps, shutting down god speed and withdrew

his arm.

Setting Athena down on the beach, all preparations for intercepting

the enemy were complete.

"Kusanagi Godou. Wield thy sword in this goddess' stead..."

"Yes. Please be patient for a moment, for after this shall be our

conclusion."

Godou raised his right arm under Athena's gaze.

Manifesting in his hand was the divine blade Ama no Murakumo no

Tsurugi. Its blade was jet-black as usual, but this time, it was

incinerating with dark black flames.

These were rare otherworldly flames that did not give off any

scorching heat.

They were ice-cold instead. Gusts of exceptionally chilling air were

being blown out from the dark black flames. One would likely suffer

instant cold burns on contact.

At this very moment, the four balls of lightning controlled by Lancelot

arrived.

Godou did not even swing Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi. Wrapped in

dark black flames, the black metal automatically absorbed the balls of

lightning. Just like that, they disappeared.

"Hmm... The Divine Sword of Salvation has been countered, yes?"

Standing directly beneath the white star, Lancelot seemed to be in

doubt.

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"Not exactly countered. But your small demonstration of power was

neutralized, more or less. Right now, this sword is imitating the same

principles at work behind yours."

Godou explained softly.

Time was running out. The battle must be ended as quickly as

possible.

Part 5

"That whatever sword or lance of yours... It's quite powerful, right?"

"Hmm. In the legends of this Knight's master, this steel was called

Caliburnus, Escalibor, Excalibur and other names. The precious

apocalyptic blade that could slice through heaven, earth, and the

planets."

Lancelot replied quietly to Godou's question.

He was less than twenty meters away from the white knight. Using

the [Raptor], that distance could be crossed in an instant.

"Really? This sword of mine doesn't have that kind of ability though.

Athena said it could split apart heaven and earth? Well, not as

amazing as yours, at any rate."

"Indeed. This Knight's steel body feels bone-chilling fear."

Godou made conversation as he searched for an opportunity to

charge. Gripping Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's hilt tightly, he was

holding it completely like he was swinging a baseball bat.

But this was good enough. His intent was not in displaying

swordsmanship. He will swing it in the most skillful and familiar

manner he knew. That was the most important point.

In response, Lancelot also pointed the tip of his platinum divine lance

towards Godou's abdomen.

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A stance for mid level attack. White light flashed as it descended from

the brilliant star above. Receiving the light, the lance's blade now

shone with radiance as bright as the sun.

The opponent was thinking the same thing? Godou's lips separated

into a savage grin.

Lancelot also knew the battle had entered the phase when tactics

were pointless and there was no longer time to think ahead and

anticipate the enemy's moves. On Godou's side, he did not have much

time left. Lancelot, on the other hand, was covered with injuries.

Precisely because of that, both reached the same conclusion.

"Ama no Murakumo, hurry and send that guy flying!"

"O Divine Sword of Salvation, displayest thy splendorous might to the

god-slayer!"

As the two cried out simultaneously, sword and lance attacked at the

same time.

Godou turned Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi's blade forward as he

advanced with god speed. Lancelot captured Godou movements using

the mind's eye and intended to strike him with the divine lance's

blade.

Along the way, Godou switched off god speed to decelerate, planning

on speeding up when the knight was caught unaware.

But before that could happen, Lancelot released lightning from the

divine lance to hinder Godou.

Dodging the lightning, Godou accelerated once more. Ama no

Murakumo no Tsurugi was only centimeters away from the knight's

white armor when in the final instant, Lancelot used the divine lance's

platinum blade to block the black metal that burned with dark black

flames—

In the end, black and white sacred steel clashed violently.

The Divine Sword of Salvation. The blade of extermination which

could slice apart all of creation.

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In contrast, having received Athena's life force and secret arts, Ama

no Murakumo no Tsurugi's jet-black blade sucked everything into it.

Like a super massive black hole, it sought to devour all of creation.

Taking as nourishment everything it had absorbed, autonomously

converting it into new life. Like aged stars exploding into supernovae,

their remains were turned into materials for new celestial objects.

Even though this was happening on a tiny scale, it imitated the life

cycle of stars.

Consequently, this black metal that could split heaven and earth—

Flashes of white light and lightning flew around in a frenzy, not only

illuminating the beach and the territory of the Bouosou Sea with

platinum-colored brightness, but also creating aurora in the sky.

Then Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi sucked in everything to produce a

spherical space of pure darkness.

Like the white star produced by the Divine Sword of Salvation, the

black hole-esque object hovered high in the sky.

The sacred white star and the sacred dark space collided violently

together, exploding, entangling, firing destructive light and

gravitational pulses, finally disappearing. Mutual annihilation.

At that moment, a horrifying shockwave hurtled towards the beach.

Altering the landscape — not only that, the power was enough to

erase the landscape without trace.

Lancelot was spectacularly blown away.

Godou ran with god speed, desperately trying to evade the

shockwave, but in the end he was still caught in the blast.

Although not to the same extent as the white knight, Godou was

basically sent flying. Even so, along the way he still managed to pick

up Athena as she lay on the ground, protecting her with his body the

moment they were sent flying.

Thanks to this, one of Kisarazu's beaches was destroyed.

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A wasteland was created, providing no clue to the landscape's former

appearance, clouded with flying dust and debris.

Even so, Lancelot still stood up by supporting himself with the divine

lance to seek his enemies. Kusanagi Godou also set down Athena

once more, walking as he used Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi as a

crutch.

Godou's body was covered with wounds no less serious than the

enemy's.

His right arm was probably broken near the elbow. His chest was

hurting beneath his arm. How many ribs were broken? Internal

organs were injured and he was spitting blood. He also felt extremely

nauseous. His heart was in intense pain, which likely meant the

[Raptor]'s time limit was fast approaching. Scratches, bruises,

internal and external bleeding were innumerable.

...Well, this was like being caught up in a terrorist's bomb. It was a

miracle to be alive.

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was also snapped into two. Too

reckless.

He could no longer hear the divine sword's meddlesome voice.

Apparently it was no longer functional for the time being.

Unbelievably, Godou felt no compulsion to flee.

Godou dragged his feet as he approached Lancelot.

The opponent was also taking up his lance shakily, displaying the will

to fight. This guy was unexpectedly similar in temperament.

"—Sir Lancelot. Your ward Guinevere has already escaped the

battlefield. What course of action shall your divine self take?"

Just as the battle was about to resume, Erica's voice was heard.

Godou turned to find the long-absent Erica Blandelli approaching

nearby, together with Ena who was being supported by Liliana and

Yuri.

...Calming his mind, Godou recalled his goal.

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Now was the time when Athena should come first. If he forced the

fight to continue in his current state, there would not be enough time

no matter what.

"Oh? This Knight's beloved child... Concentrating only on battle, did

one forget about her?"

Lancelot also seemed to have calmed down.

Warning himself with a series of mutters, the war god languidly

turned his white helmet towards the sea. It almost seemed as if he

wanted to describe Kusanagi Godou as his favorite person.

"Young god-slayer, we shall part for now as there are other matters to

attend to... Yes, though this Knight is logically unqualified to say this,

Athena shall be left to you. Please give the great goddess a worthy

and spectacular farewell."

"I don't need you to tell me. We will settle our score the next time we

meet."

This was the first time Godou ever promised a second battle to a

deity.

Acknowledging "Hmm" to this statement, Lancelot's form gradually

rarefied. The earlier mist suddenly reappeared, brought forth by the

wind.

Very soon after, the dense mist dispersed and the white knight's

figure vanished.

"Sorry. There's a lot I want to tell everyone, but could you all leave

for now?"

There was really no time left. Godou made his request in haste.

Even though Yuri and Liliana displayed questioning gazes, they

remained silent.

Looking completely drained and exhausted, Ena nodded in complete

agreement.

"Yes. Do what you wish to do. I, Erica Blandelli, am not foolish

enough to make irresponsible remarks about battles between the

great god-slaying Devil King and the gods."

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Erica proceeded to declare in her usual glamorous voice.

"...You, aren't you unexpectedly energetic?"

Athena, who should have been lying down, had gotten up already.

Her head proudly raised high, she stood with her back perfectly

straight. Seeing her like that, Godou remarked.

With Erica and the girls gone, they were alone together again.

The canvas of night, the white star and dark sphere had all vanished.

The midday sun was shining upon this wasteland.

"Certainly. Who dost thou believe this goddess to be? One is the

queen of the sky, the earth and the underworld, as the goddess of

war, thou knowest? Without fulfilling one's final wish, how could one

enter eternal slumber?"

Athena answered haughtily.

Even though Godou knew she was trying to be brave, it did feel like

the goddess was speaking the truth.

In order for the Divine Sword of Salvation to be swung, a large

portion of her immortal life had been taken. Furthermore, she even

allowed Godou and Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi absorb her life force

and powers as the great mother earth goddess.

It would not be surprising if she collapsed at any moment. It was only

natural to be in such a state.

"Well done with the heaven and earth splitting sword thou displayed

just now. Hmph... Conversely, 'tis rather fortunate this body was

pierced twice by the Divine Sword of Salvation. Thanks to that, the

sword's secrets were divulged, allowing a blade to be forged in its

likeness despite its rather self-centred style. Yes, it can be said that

thy blade was created by Athena's hand."

Proudly declaring her success with hubris.

As expected, Athena remained unchanged to the very end. Godou's

wish to save her, if it were possible, continued to persist...

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However, he could not believe he was harboring such a benevolent

wish so easily.

I will adhere to my own way of doing things. However, Athena should

also carry through with Athena's style.

Based on the outcome, both of them had willfully brought trouble to

others and were unruly existences unable to live peacefully in an

orderly world. As unruly companions, an appropriate conclusion was

only proper.

"So, you should understand by now. There is no need for either us to

hold back at this point."

"Right. 'Tis about time to begin."

"Yes."

A brief exchange. It was more than enough.

Indeed, Athena was only superficially lively. Godou's body was also

starting to enter the state of paralysis brought by the onset of the

[Raptor]'s after effects. His legs could no longer move and the pain in

his heart was getting increasingly severe.

However, he could still make it in time.

Godou looked east — to where the sun rose.

"For victory, hasten forth before me! O Immortal Sun, I beseech thee

to grant radiance to the stallion. O Stallion that moveth godlike with

wondrous grace, bringest forth the halo of thy master!"

Godou called forth Verethragna's third incarnation, the [White

Stallion].

Fragments of the sun descended from the sky in the form of Godou's

heaviest firepower. The flames that only faced great sinners who

brought hardship and suffering to the people. The trump card which

Godou's battered body still managed to summon.

"O Darkness! One's intimate beloved, holy sanctum bound to one's

coexistence. Loyal guard of the queen's final hour of demise. Obeyest

divine orders!"

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Athena also summoned the shielding barrier of darkness.

The hemispherical darkness entrenched itself in midair above her.

Before the white radiance flying from the east incinerated this plot of

wasteland to ashes, the darkness obstructed the advance of the

scorching flames, blocking it.

Vying for domination of the skies, light and darkness fought each

other, colliding together.

Godou poured the remainder of his magical power into the white

flashing light — the [White Stallion]'s flames. Athena also put forth all

her strength with the last of her power to sustain the darkness.

What seemed like an eternity was in actual fact a very brief conflict.

In the end, light and fire were devoured by the darkness, vanishing.

Godou was the first to reach his limit. Immediately afterwards, the

canopy of darkness dispersed like mist.

Godou's body was already so exhausted he could not lift a single

finger. With a smack, he fell over backwards onto the ground, his face

towards the sky.

At that moment, Athena pounced onto Godou's body and held her

hand in a karate chop.

"...How now, Kusanagi Godou? This counteth as one's victory, yes?"

"...Well, that seems about right."

Faced with this question that was equivalent to a victory declaration,

Godou responded with a slippery answer.

Athena's knife hand could be used as a deadly guillotine. All she

needed to do was swing that hand, and surely Kusanagi Godou's life

would be severed like a weed.

Finally with a flash, the knife hand approached Godou's neck.

Nevertheless, the hand stopped just before it reached his neck.

"Alas, it seemeth that time is up. One cannot delay parting any

longer."

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With clearly enough time remaining to take off his head, Athena still

remarked in that manner. It felt like the great goddess had no wish to

do so.

"Really? Although it was a strange relationship, I will be feeling lonely.

Even now, to be honest, I'm still not too sure whether meeting you

was ultimately good or bad."

"Hmph. Even though 'twas unfavorable fate that failed to correct

itself, 'tis thy foolishness for being bound by destiny to this goddess in

such a manner."

Without trying to conceal her suggestive words, she scolded him

instead.

"Then showest thy magnanimity as the victor. One's honest advice,

thou shalt take to heart. —War god Lancelot, the fellow earlier was

not in a complete state. 'Tis meet to describe him as injured."

Then Athena began to caress Godou's face as he lay there, immobile.

Yet he was that strong!? Godou was terrified. It was difficult to

believe, but he had no other choice.

After all, this was Athena's honest advice from her final moments. He

had no choice but to believe.

"Once this goddess passeth on, the Holy Grail shall return to the

outside world, and go back to the Divine Ancestor's hands. Forsooth,

truly a troublesome vessel had been created."

Godou nodded successively at the goddess' words.

"Thy future path is filled with the color of deadly battles. Takest

utmost care. After all, thou art the god-slayer who resideth in the

same country as that man — the king who manifests at the end of

eras! Yes, in that case, this is the only parting gift."

Caressing Godou's face with her hands, she tenderly gazed down

upon him.

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Hidden in Athena's behavior was a certain type of gentleness. A sense

of wistful reluctance to part.

But it felt like it was increasing slightly—

Godou suddenly had that impression.

"Though 'tis said, the more weapons the better, thou art not ready at

this juncture. But on some particular day, this might prove useful in

the end. Until the time comes, simply holdest onto this."

Athena's child-like beautiful face drew near and she pressed her lips

against Godou's lips.

It felt like something was carved into his mind and heart, as well as

deep inside the Campione's body.

Most likely Athena's secret arts. Probably some kind of spell or she

was bestowing wisdom's guidance. As for its contents, Godou could

not decipher it at all.

Exactly as she had said, it was probably useless for the current

Godou.

Casting this issue aside, Godou instead chose to engrave in his mind

the solemn and courageous appearance that Athena maintained in the

face of certain death.

"Farewell is unneeded. One day, this goddess shall return,

reincarnated, to seek you for revenge. Thou shalt payest what thou

owest. Because no matter when, the only one allowed to defeat

Kusanagi Godou is this goddess — Heretic Athena!"

Athena and Godou's gazes met as soon as she made her bold

declaration.

The goddess was looking down upon Kusanagi Godou with a haughty

expression. Then she began to smile. It was an incredibly fulfilled

smile as if she had finally accomplished something.

Seeing her in that fashion, Godou felt like a chunk of his heart had

been carved out, with an intriguing sense of loss.

—Ah yes, she has to leave after all.

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However, had gods and god-slayers not been irreconcilable foes,

there might have been other appropriate ways of parting.

Hence Godou silently remarked to himself, "We'll see, when the time

comes."

Even though she could not have heard it, the goddess remained

courageous and dauntless, smiling even more. Then suddenly she was

gone.

Her body collapsed like fine particles of sand, riding the sea breeze as

they scattered.

She knew it would turn out like this, but nevertheless, for the sake of

honor in her final moments, she had turned her immortal life into a

weapon, thereby ending her long enduring life as Goddess Athena.

Part 6

When a [Heretic God] died in the world, what happened afterwards?

Gods were indestructible. Even if life and body were lost, their own

existence would continue to persist.

First of all, there was the so-called soul. Without carrying any

ectoplasm, it brought the "divinity" itself to the "Boundary of Life and Immortality." From there it then reached the "Domain of

Immortality."

The Domain of Immortality — in other words, the myths themselves.

Losing their body and their soul after death, gods could only continue

existing in the myths.

And then, through some chance occurrence, they might become a

[Heretic God] once more.

At that time, the divinity will be released from the Domain of

Immortality, forming great ectoplasm — transforming into a divine

spirit.

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Proceeding to obtain a material body on earth, thereby manifesting.

What is known as the divinity, for example, could be said to be

something that amalgamates all myths concerning that particular

deity.

...This was the truth of the world that Athena knew.

Having reached death in the Far East, she lost her material body.

Persisting as a divine spirit for now, her consciousness was retained.

But very soon, even this would disappear as well.

She wished to return to the world again before that god-slayer dies a

pitiful death.

This could only be entrusted to the gears of destiny.

In the process of disappearing, Athena's thoughts were shaken.

Currently, her divine spirit was no longer above ground but was

sinking towards the abyssal depths of the earth. She saw golden light

ahead of her.

One seeth. So that is the Holy Grail's true form—

This thought only lasted an instant. Immediately, she felt completely

indifferent.

Her consciousness, memories and personality as Athena were slowly

dissipating.

Just as Athena passed on, Godou's paralysis finally ended.

Erica, along with Yuri and Liliana, as well as Seishuuin Ena had

returned to this desolate battlefield.

"Your Majesty, could you be feeling lonesome?"

"No, nothing like that. She seems to have finished everything she

wanted to do, and thanks to everyone's help I was also able to do

everything I wanted."

Ena's question seemed to be asking on behalf of all the girls how

Athena's passing away should be treated.

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Godou answered with forthrightness. The goddess had displayed a

smile like that. In that case, there was no need to hold anything back.

He originally expected indifferent voices and facial expressions, but

the girls' reactions were unbelievable.

Ena was smiling as if comforting him, with an expression that seemed

to relieve his exhaustion.

Liliana was silent but her eyes glimmered with empathy. Yuri smiled

gently as if displaying all encompassing acceptance.

Then Erica voiced the final conclusions.

"Right. Godou had responded with battle spirit to Athena who sought

life and death in accordance to her style. Some may wish to make

impertinent criticisms, but at least I won't be the one to do it."

The female knight's philosophy could never acknowledge Godou's

decision as wise.

Perhaps everyone had already noticed.

Due to the passing away of the enemy bound to him by fate,

Kusanagi Godou felt an intriguing sense of loss— Apparently, he was

making everyone else worry.

Godou believed the girls were his very good companions, and felt

obliged to express his thanks to them.

He was definitely at fault with his controversial choice of action.

Godou bowed his head towards Liliana and Yuri.

"I am sorry for causing trouble for you two in particular. It's my fault.

In the end, using a gambling kind of method to release the

petrification... When clearly there was a safer alternative. I am in the

wrong for acting like that."

"Indeed. But very unfortunately, I am the one who is your knight. No

matter how cruel or merciless a Devil King Kusanagi Godou may be,

this life swears eternal loyal allegiance."

Despite Liliana's voicing of her grievances, she bore lenient eyes of

full acceptance.

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"In addition, no matter how the process went, being saved by you

from the crisis is also the truth. In that case, our debts cancel out."

"Oh I see. Sorry anyway."

Prompted by Liliana's smile, Godou smiled wryly in turn.

Godou knew that she was proposing this kind of logic to lessen his

guilt. What gratifying words.

"I just want to express my gratitude to Godou-san, without any

intention of reproach. Also..."

As Yuri started speaking cautiously, Godou began to fear.

He did not expect to be let off so easily, but he was overjoyed at her

leniency.

But what was with that "also"? She seemed to have more to add.

"Whether it is destruction of locations or bringing trouble to others,

please do not hesitate in speaking out. As long as it concerns Godou-

san, let it be as promised previously. No matter where you need to go

for penance, I will accompany you. You can tell me any time."

"In Kaoru-san's words, it's all been precalculated anyway."

"Well, even though I also believe Sayanomiya Kaoru's methods of

concealing the truth should be flawless, in the event that penance

needs to be paid, not only Mariya Yuri, I too, shall go along."

"That's right. If that's the case, Ena will go too. It's also a kind of

social event."

"...Everyone, I am really grateful."

Yuri's lenient words seemed like they came from a virtuous wife,

taking care of a delinquent husband. Together with Liliana and Ena

who expressed support, seeing the girls cooperate and get along was

really a comforting sight.

Everything deserved to be counted as good fortune. However, the fact

that Godou was inexplicably counting his blessings was kept secret.

"By the way, you ended up coming back immediately."

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"Yes. I managed to make it before the final climax ended. This is

evidence of our excellent fortune, whether you or me. Of course, your

fortune was already apparent from the fact that I, Erica Blandelli, am

your companion."

As Godou struck up conversation with her, Erica replied in her usual

tone.

Her absence approached two weeks. Even so, Godou felt an incredible

sense of satisfaction just simply joking around with each other like

that. Likewise for Erica, she giggled and began to smile.

Just a simple exchange like that.

Godou did not have a topic of conversation to further liven up the

mood, nor did he feel the need to hug each other in joy from being

reunited.

However, he felt that this was sufficient. That was the nature of his

relationship with Erica.

"...Eh? Amakasu-san, what happened?"

Everyone's gaze was drawn as Ena suddenly pointed somewhere.

It was the History Compilation Committee's special agent who always

wore a sloppy suit. In actual fact, he was Japan's top ninja. As well as

being a practitioner of onmyoudou. [1] That was what Godou had

previously heard from the two Hime-Miko.

This very Amakasu Touma was now approaching them with unsteady

footsteps.

His body seemed like it had received an intense electrical shock, for

even the act of walking normally was difficult.

"What happened, Amakasu-san!?"

Godou dragged his exhausted body and ran over to him.

1. Onmyoudou(陰陽道): literally "the way of the Yin and the Yang", mixing science and occult, a traditional Japanese philosophy based on Chinese concepts of the Five Elements and the Yin-Yang duality.

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"M-My apologies, Kusanagi-san... That, that thing was robbed..."

"That thing... Could it be the Heavenly Reverse Halberd!?"

Amakasu nodded weakly to confirm this natural conclusion.

Could it be Guinevere's group? Pretending to retreat, when actually

they were aiming for Amakasu?

But after learning the details, Godou knew this speculation was

wrong. When he heard the culprit's name and origins, Godou felt

surprise from the core of his being.

"That person came to Japan, eh... How truly unexpected."

Erica murmured in shock.

It was a state of affairs that even exceeded the expectations of the

brilliant [Diavolo Rosso].

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Volume IX

Epilogue

Alexandre Gascoigne was a very busy man.

To this description, the woman who was his enemy, once added most

redundantly, "To be precise, his desire for work creates never-ending

tasks for himself." In any case, he was very busy.

After all, he had a very ostentatious title.

The god-slaying Devil King Campione, commander-in-chief of the

secret association, [Royal Arsenal]!

Even though it was not a position he wished for, somehow it naturally

developed to this state.

A man above all peoples was obliged to display work ethic and

behavior in accordance to his stature. Such was his aesthetic ideal.

Almost twelve years had passed since Alec had become a Campione.

During this time, he vigorously conducted his activities with such an

intent.

Thanks to that, the name of Black Prince Alec was widely known as a

Devil King of the new age.

As a side note, he was nicknamed "Prince" because of his obvious

youth in comparison to Devil Kings of olden days like Marquis Voban.

Nevertheless, even Alec would take roughly one vacation a year.

Wherever his destination, somehow he was always met with

troublesome conflicts.

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Embroiled into the Divine Ancestor's conspiracies. Encountering

[Heretic Gods]. Saving ordinary citizens who were about to be wiped

out by profound and magical secret arts. Stealing ancient treasures

whose existences he learned of by chance. Hassled by headache-

inducing female acquaintances.

Thinking back again, he had never had a peaceful relaxing vacation...

"Hence, I will change my way of thinking instead."

During mid autumn, that was what Alec said to his trusted

subordinate.

As a side note, European vacations were usually taken during the

summer. But due to all sorts of busy work and matters, his vacation

had been pushed back to November.

"Since troublesome things will happen anyway, I might as well go

directly to where trouble is brewing. I will make a brief visit to Japan."

"Oh. If I remember correctly, that is the place in the far east where

you went about a month ago."

The other participant of the conversation was Alec's bodyguard, Sir

Iceman.

A legendary knight without any flaws (aerophobia aside), having

passed the age of thirty, his solemn face felt increasingly seasoned as

time went by.

"Yeah. There has been reports of Guinevere's secret activities. I think

this is a good chance to investigate that woman's plans. I'll rely on

you to keep watch here."

"...Alec. I've held this idea from a very long time ago."

This was the scene when Alec entrusted remaining matters to his

reliable subordinate and close friend.

However, Sir Iceman shook his head as if troubled by a dilemma, and

said:

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"The reason why you keep running into trouble lies here. Smothering

the embers of disaster with great effort each time, only to quickly

encounter another one, and even deliberately starting fires of your

own, grumbling to yourself as you try to put them out... That

personality of yours is precisely the number one culprit."

"Wait a minute. Putting that aside, hasn't a certain person been

causing many troublesome incidents?!"

"In that case, you really should reflect on your choice of friends. I can see no reason in maintaining ties of friendship all this time with

people who keep running into trouble."

Sir Iceman objected with a disappointed face as he shrugged

sardonically.

That Princess and Divine Ancestor, as well as that other group of

shady characters were not his friends. Alec wanted to shout that out,

but for the sake of his authority and dignity, he refrained.

Anyway, he was currently on vacation.

In order to avoid alerting those involved in the Japanese world of

magic, he needed to take precautions during entry. Using a passport

with a fake name, he traveled like "a king in disguise."

...With regards to the outcome, this vacation turned out to be rather

peaceful.

Divine Ancestor Guinevere, Lancelot who had become a [Heretic God],

as well as the commotion caused by Goddess Athena, none of them

required Alec to take action.

Japan's Campione, Kusanagi Godou, had undertaken everything upon

himself.

During this time, Alec was essentially observing as a bystander.

"Looks like Guinevere still hasn't given up on 'Arthur.'"

Having discovered the Witch Queen's plot, he quietly muttered to

himself.

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The king who manifests at the end of eras. The war god whose origins

lay in fantastic heroic legends. Due to his research and adventures for

the past few years, Alec's investigation about him had reached new

depths.

"Were you hindered just as you were about to revive him

successfully?"

The opinionated Guinevere's vision was actually quite narrow. Even

though Alec did not think she was able to solve the mystery easily, he

still had to take precautions...

At the same time, he did not forget his personal interests.

While hanging around Tokyo, he investigated the inner workings of

the History Compilation Committee.

Even though he had said he wanted a relaxing sightseeing tour of

Japan... And tentatively still considering a tour like that, in the end,

he prioritized intelligence gathering. This was his workaholism at work

— he would feel anxious whenever there was no work or research to

be done.

"As always, you're still leading a private life fatally lacking in delight, glamor, or healing presences. Your future worries me so. Without any

family or lover to accompany your days, wouldn't your life end in

lonesome solitude?"

He was reminded of the pitying words offered by that long-time

female acquaintance who was definitely not his friend. In any case,

Alec was still enjoying his stay in Japan.

Furthermore, he even became a villain along the way.

The Heavenly Reverse Halberd that Guinevere had wanted to obtain,

was a rather interesting divine artifact.

"Maybe call it... Earning some tips, not bad at all."

Quietly muttering to himself, he tried out a little trick.

His first authority of divine speed. It not only allowed him to run as

fast as the wind, but even gave him the ability to turn into lightning

and take flight.

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In actual fact, there were all sorts of variations in application.

Such as leaving virtual afterimages like ninjas of legend, giving other

people divine speed apart from himself, or turning himself into

lightning for an instant to unleash electrical attacks.

Amongst these various abilities, he could also virtually erase his

complete presence, allowing him to undertake secret activities with

divine speed.

As long as he unleashed divine speed fully, he became as fast as

lightning.

However, objects moving at super high speed will cause others to

notice something was amiss. It was a power not particularly suited to

staying hidden.

Using divine speed to move undetected—

If that could be done, then he could achieve the feat of being active

around wild beasts without their noticing.

Alec was able to control divine speed as easily as his own arms and

legs... Well, to do so he needed to remove all hindering burdens. Even

a coat could not be worn because any extra force exerted would cause

detectable movements. So physical tasks also had to be avoided. But

what about something on the level of delivering a piece of paper?

Alec took off his winter coat and began using divine speed in light

clothing.

He then approached Kusanagi Godou while he was eating and left the

note there.

Eavesdropping on their subsequent reactions and conversations about

the entire matter, Alec successfully confirmed the identity of the man

carrying the Heavenly Reverse Halberd.

A wizard and special agent who seemed kind of unmotivated. But

quite competent indeed. On that night, Guinevere had been pursuing

this man, trying to snatch away the Heavenly Reverse Halberd.

The man had skillfully employed concealment spells, successfully

shaking the witch off his trail.

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Even Alec had lost him at one point. It seemed like he was some kind

of ninja authority.

However, after Lancelot's battle with Athena and Kusanagi Godou had

began, Alec found the man near the battlefield.

Faced with such a tense situation, even that man showed an opening.

That made everything that followed rather simple.

Turning into lightning, Alec silently stole his way to the man's back

and made light contact. As the man collapsed, convulsing from the

electrical shock, Alec casually retrieved the Heavenly Reverse Halberd

from his suit.

At the time, the ninja showed a surprised expression as he remained

conscious.

Killing him to silence a witness... Was the type of unwise decision that

Alec did not intend to take. He simply shrugged and left.

England's black gentleman and Japan's Kusanagi Godou.

With that, an intriguing connection of destiny had been established

between the two.

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Volume IX

Afterword

"Stop talking nonsense."

This line of dialogue has occurred many times in the main story.

While writing this series, I also felt compelled to say the exact line out

loud many times. Naturally, they were all aimed at our protagonist.

By the way.

"As soon as that line was said..."

Regardless, I still want to announce, despite having a guy like that as

the protagonist, this series is finally approaching double digits in the

number of volumes.

This is all thanks to everyone's support, so let me express my deepest

gratitude.

So, this time the long absent goddess-sama makes another

appearance.

Written as mortal enemy but read as "friend."

This youth's revolutionary proposition will always be a proposition met

by all protagonists. This idea was thought up a long time ago. Then in

that case, the one proposed to most likely had to be her.

No matter what, if he and she could act out this kind of "romantic

comedy" at "some school or living under the same roof," the

characters and plot will need to be designed to be more distinctive. If

their paths were to cross once again, I think that would be the feeling

given off.

To this date, the story has mixed into it events such as goddesses

reincarnating into witches, or dormant deities. Oh my, how will things

progress from here?

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Also, there is Tokunaga Asuka-san who first appeared in the previous

volume. But actually, a little story about her part-time work was

already published on the Super Dash Bunko official website's

Campione! specials.

Next volume will have our protagonist matching up against that

Englishman.

Amongst the various personalities of sporty, emotional right brain

dominant, barbaric, carnivorous, casual carelessness of the great

Devil Kings, only that one guy is so-called cultured, rational, sensitive

and civilized, herbivore.

These kinds of exotic character traits.

How will this incomprehensible combination develop? By the way, it

needs no mentioning, but of course our protagonist belongs in the

first group.

His self-declarations are wrong. When the time comes, let us meet

again with the next volume.

Oh by the way, my long-time acquaintance, Itou Hiro, author of the

well-received "アンチ·マジカ兒～魔法少女禁止法～", has his new work

"Bara x Yuri 彼女の為の剣之、彼の為の乙女の員" published by Super

Dash Bunko on the same day as this volume of Campione! .

It's really amusing. If possible, I hope everyone can check it out.

I think everyone will be satisfied.

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Document Outline

Campione Volume 9: Return of the Goddess

Contents

Disclaimer/Credits

Chapter 1 - Wound of the Divine Lance

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Chapter 2 - Devil King and School Festival

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Chapter 3 - Athena Reappears

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Chapter 4 - Petrified Metropolis

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Chapter 5 - Where This Sword Shall Strike

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Chapter 6 - Before the Duel

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Chapter 7 - Farewell My Mortal Enemy

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Epilogue

Afterword