Campione! Vol 9 Chapter 5

Chapter 5 - 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 G.o.dou 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 p.u.b.escent but proudly puffed out chest displayed the G.o.ddess' haughtiness. A girl who acted this way probably did not exist either. G.o.dou 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 ident.i.ty of the deity causing all these supernatural phenomena. All we need is wait one whole day to pa.s.s, then use the [Sword]'s spell words. Take Ena for example. She, too, can teach you knowledge about Athena." "Seishuuin?" "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 Ukis.h.i.+ma 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, G.o.dou wanted to see Yuri and Liliana revived as soon as possible. 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 G.o.dou into deep thought. Right. If he took the opportunity to slay Athena then everything would be resolved. However, G.o.dou 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 — G.o.dou believed that the one controlling it, Guinevere, would probably target Athena again. This G.o.ddess 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. G.o.dou was still idling on the seash.o.r.e 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 G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou was troubled? The latter seemed more and more unlikely. Anyway, even G.o.dou himself could not articulate why he felt so concerned about Athena's matters. "She... Is really about to die?" Guinevere's subterfuge. The matter of the Holy Grail. Athena's various behavior. After much thought, G.o.dou 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 G.o.ddess. With death approaching, she had forced herself to pay G.o.dou a visit — "Why would she do that..." G.o.dou could imagine, but he was uncertain if he guessed correctly. It was probably too difficult to fill the cultural divide through his lone efforts. G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou'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 G.o.d-slaying knight. Despite G.o.dou'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, G.o.dou decided to call someone else. 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, G.o.dou? You finally couldn't bear the loneliness of my absence?' Instantly connected to Erica Blandelli, G.o.dou 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.' G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou 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 j.a.pan to have such bold decisiveness.' "I am a veritable pacifist and member of modern civilized society. Stop making these strange descriptions." 'What's wrong? I've always thought, that G.o.dou 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? G.o.dou was getting angry. If that were true then he was just a selfish inconsiderate person. That would be a ma.s.sive 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 G.o.dou 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 j.a.pan 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. G.o.dou 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 — Guided by that notion, G.o.dou'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 G.o.ddess also had extenuating circ.u.mstances... Abandoning someone for the sake of another, that was not G.o.dou'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 seash.o.r.e 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 j.a.panese 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 G.o.dou 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. She seemed to be choosing dry twigs that were not soaked by seawater. Realizing the Hime-Miko's intentions, G.o.dou 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 b.a.l.l.s such as salmon, tarako salted roe, kombu seaweed and plum. It seemed to be an a.s.sortment 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 ch.o.r.e." The two sat around the campfire and began their meal facing each other. Since he was rather hungry, G.o.dou didn't bother with manners and swept everything clean. 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. G.o.dou had heard before that the daughters of the Seishuuin family were raised as high cla.s.s 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." G.o.dou recalled going on trips with friends who loved the outdoors. Spending time together with Ena was like having a male friend. Even though G.o.dou 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. G.o.dou 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." G.o.dou a.s.serted. 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... G.o.dou recalled Liliana's pa.s.sionate 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!" G.o.dou 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 G.o.ddess. Ever since night had fallen, he had been troubled by these questions... G.o.dou 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 s.n.a.t.c.her!" "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. 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 G.o.dou'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?" G.o.dou was completely shocked. Nevermind Kusanagi G.o.dou, 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? G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou 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!?" G.o.dou was rea.s.sured to hear Amakasu's voice just as he was worrying. 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." G.o.dou 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 surprised, but it was Ena who deduced the situation. G.o.dou explained a.s.sertively to the two of them, as well as to petrified Athena. "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 G.o.ddess had said that her fate as Athena had been blemished. G.o.dou felt it was hyperbole. Be that as it may, G.o.dou was also someone who could barely be cla.s.sified 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, G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou 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 seash.o.r.e. 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. G.o.dou's window faced the ocean. The statue of the G.o.ddess continued to stand majestically on the winter beach. Local policemen and Committee employees had already sealed off the area. It was already decided that G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou. 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, G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou'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 G.o.dou 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... G.o.dou averted his gaze as he spoke. This caused the premier Hi me- Miko to explain frantically. "It's not always like this. But it'd be embarra.s.sing to visit Your Majesty in dirty clothes. Without any other clothing on hand, I had no choice." "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? G.o.dou 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.^ "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 l.u.s.ter 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. "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." G.o.dou 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 Nades.h.i.+ko rivaling Yuri, as well as being a very attractive girl. This truth was now suddenly presented before him. 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 G.o.d], 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, G.o.dou 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 T21 T31 Concentration 1 J or Sevens. 1 J "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." All avenues of escape had been blocked. Was there no way left other than a frontal confrontation? G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou 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?" "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, G.o.dou 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 rea.s.suring. Had it been Erica, G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou wanted to loudly reject her, it would be equivalent to admitting defeat. It would be disclosing the fact that he was about to succ.u.mb. "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." Faced with Ena's dejection, G.o.dou 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." G.o.dou 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. G.o.dou 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. G.o.dou 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. Her meekness made her usual boldness seem unreal. However, as the Hime-Miko tried to loosen the collar of her white garment, G.o.dou 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 hards.h.i.+p suffered by you girls?" G.o.dou 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 G.o.ds, 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 G.o.dou, displaying great will and spirit to accommodate him. By now, G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou's everyday life could turn into a paradise for his own personal pleasure. However, indulgence in such pleasures could easily defang himself. 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 G.o.ds 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 courts.h.i.+p 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 G.o.ds apart. The G.o.ddess who went so far as to bring ruin to the world simply for the sake of defeating Kusanagi G.o.dou. That was the sort of enemies G.o.dou 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." 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 a.s.sured. 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 Nades.h.i.+ko 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 G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou, Ena was as adorable as a young child. "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. d.a.m.n. G.o.dou 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. G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou. Gasping for air, Ena's lips let go. But it was not allowed. G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou's kiss. Instead she tightly embraced G.o.dou as she pressed her adorable lips against his, wordlessly expressing more of her joyful emotions. Hence G.o.dou 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 any more." She was already pleading. This rare display of Ena's willfulness. It meant things had to be kicked up a notch. G.o.dou kissed pa.s.sionately 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 G.o.dou's heart felt like it was galloping/rus.h.i.+ng/speeding away. G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou's swords were two in number. Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. Whether Seishuuin Ena or Kusanagi G.o.dou, the divine sword that acted as their "partner." Sword and sword. Double swords. Two users. In addition, there was a new weapon — Did this divine revelation come from a Campione's instincts? Or did it come from Ama no Murak.u.mo 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 G.o.dou's soft whispers. All said and done, she was the miko intimately connected to Ama no Murak.u.mo 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?" G.o.dou 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. "Ready... Let's start again." As Ena whispered, G.o.dou 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. G.o.dou 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 G.o.ddess." The spell the Hime-Miko just performed was [Shared Spiritual Perception]. It was not the usual instruction spell for pa.s.sing 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 G.o.dou began recounting the Holy Grail's origins. G.o.d-slayer and Hime-Miko of the Sword. Both were the users of Ama no Murak.u.mo 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 G.o.ddess, the act of creating that astounding artifact apparently consumed the majority of her life. An immortal mother earth G.o.ddess. And then she truly died, offering the remainder of her life to the Holy Grail as her dying wish." "No way eh... Even deities are powerless against that divine artifact..." Respite for conversation, an opportunity to breathe. Ena busily pecked at G.o.dou'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 G.o.ddesses. And also the method of activating that power." Robbing a mother earth G.o.ddess' 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 G.o.dou, Divine Ancestor Guinevere had given him knowledge and spellcraft. Since she had forced them on him without permission in the first place, G.o.dou 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 Murak.u.mo together... Hold onto this sensation..." Ena murmured and slid her tongue inside. Entering G.o.dou'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. G.o.dou laughed wryly and fiercely intercepted Ena's incoming tongue, sucking on it pa.s.sionately. "Ah!? 1-1 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, G.o.dou 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..." G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou was sitting cross-legged, Ena simply bent down and planted herself onto him. She then wrapped her legs around G.o.dou. 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 G.o.dou, leaning against him. Pressed under Ena's amazingly voluptuous bosom, G.o.dou fully experienced that sense of weight which conveyed their intimate embrace. Her sweltering body was very supple with extremely smooth skin. G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou's excitement was transmitted to Ena as Ena's intoxication pa.s.sed onto G.o.dou. "Your Majesty, did you know? Ena can sense Ama no Murak.u.mo sleeping in Your Majesty's body...?" As Ena whispered during the brief respite between kisses, G.o.dou 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 Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi hidden in G.o.dou's right arm. The feeling was transmitted. "Ama no Murak.u.mo... Please conjure the image of being wielded by two people at once. Ena's hand, overlapping with His Majesty's hand... Raised up high..." 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 Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. The Hime-Miko's pristine white hand grasping the sword's hilt. G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou began to concentrate as hard as he could. Reaching for the delicate hand with which she prided in her swordsmans.h.i.+p, G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou could feel the smoothness of Ena's sweat-moistened skin. G.o.dou 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 s.h.i.+fted 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, G.o.dou and Ena were able to grab a hold of Ama no Murak.u.mo in its scabbard. Ena tearfully smiled at G.o.dou, having finally accomplished the task so clumsily. She must be troubled by this unfamiliar type of cooperative action. Overcome with tender affection, G.o.dou 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 Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi out from its scabbard together. Unsheathing the sword and swinging it together in perfect unison. G.o.dou and Ena forged new and deeper bonds with each other through Ama no Murak.u.mo 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, G.o.dou 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 ident.i.ty was obvious. "A fire... illusion? Why would that fellow do that?" "Your Majesty, that... Has appeared before Ena and us." Prompted by Ena, G.o.dou noticed. Hitherto unbeknownst to them, Ama no Murak.u.mo 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?' G.o.dou finally heard Ama no Murak.u.mo 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. G.o.dou 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? G.o.dou 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 a.s.sistance I can provide has expanded in scope. This is commendable. King, I shall answer your request.' Despite being G.o.dou's possession, the sword rambled on defiantly. What kind of "partner" was this? The sword acted like it was an equal. But G.o.dou did not mind. "Then you are aware of that!?" '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, G.o.dou 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?" G.o.dou brought up the question that suddenly entered his mind. Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi had been the ancient G.o.d'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 G.o.ds, 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 G.o.d who amalgamated various elements and divinities besides a sword G.o.d's. Completely different from pure [Steel] descending from the most primitive 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 G.o.ds. G.o.dou felt impressed as Ama no Murak.u.mo 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 G.o.ddess, it would taint the honor of us swords!' Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi and the illusory flames. Both suddenly disappeared. G.o.dou and Ena finally finished the ritual. Chirp chirp, chirp chirp. It was the sound of birds twittering. Refres.h.i.+ngly bright morning rays shone in from the window. — It was a good night's rest, thought G.o.dou 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, G.o.dou had fallen asleep exhausted. He checked his cellphone by his pillow for messages — none. G.o.dou felt relieved. Nothing seemed to have happened to Athena's statue standing on the beach. The embarra.s.sment of sleeping through an urgent message had been averted. G.o.dou 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. However, what was with this reluctance to leave the warm sensation of human skin... Hmm? Skin? Human skin? His mind instantly became fully awake. G.o.dou 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 G.o.dou'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. G.o.dou 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 — lyaaah!" 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..." "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. "1-1 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?" G.o.dou 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 a.s.serted either way. Could I have done something so b.e.s.t.i.a.l? Bearing the heavy blow to his self image, G.o.dou 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 — References 1 . t Seiza(IEll): traditional formal j.a.panese sitting posture. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seiza 2. t Concentration: a card game where the object is to find pairs from overturned cards on the table. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concentration_(game) 3. t Sevens: a card game where players have to form sequences going up or down in suit from the sevens, http://en.wi kipedia.org/wiki/Sevens_(card_game)