Campione! Vol 2 Chapter 1
Chapter 1 - Every Day is a Bothersome Day
Part 1
Recently, Kusanagi G.o.dou began setting off from home forty minutes
earlier than usual.
He originally had a habit of getting up early for a run, but this was not the
reason he had to move his schedule earlier. In fact, he could have just
changed his morning run to the evenings.
It was nearing the end of June, and plum rain had continued every day in
the monsoon season for at least half a month.
But today was a much awaited sunny day. G.o.dou put on his light running
shoes at the entrance and prepared to set off.
The last time he left home without needing an umbrella was many days
ago. As his thoughts reached this point, a sudden greeting was heard from
behind.
"Good morning, Onii-chan. Youre quite early again today... Are you going
to that person on the way again?"
A voice that should have been very cute to listen to, but currently had a
strange threatening tone.
Turning his head back, G.o.dou saw his younger sister Shizuka appearing
at the doorway with a sneer.
"Every single morning, meeting the blonde lover at some place and then
going to school together. I am surprised by your earnest diligence,
Onii-chan."
"Ah... please dont misunderstand. Erica is not my lover or anything like
that."
In response to her older brothers denial, the sister snorted with a sneer
and ignored it.
"Aya, really? Onii-chan is two-timing Mariya-senpai and Erica-san at the
same time. It really seems like... So who is the main wife and who is the
backup? Or do they play both roles!"
"Dont blindly believe those strange rumors. Youre talking as if I was the
kind of man who made women his playthings!"
"Its like this, theres no smoke without fire. The gist is the female friend
sleeps in every day, so each morning you have to go to that female friends
home to wake her up. Isnt that strange? Couldnt one just use an alarm
clock to wake up?"
It really was exactly as Shizuka described it.
G.o.dou nodded deeply, and at the same time, felt troubled as to how he
could describe the peculiarities of the young lady Erica Blandelli.
It had already been a month since he began sharing the same cla.s.sroom
as Erica.
The only day she arrived at the cla.s.sroom on time and before lessons
began was the first.
Henceforth, she was late every single day. It was a good day if she arrived
before homeroom ended.
In the most severe cases, she would casually stroll into the cla.s.sroom after
lessons had begun for an hour or two, and greet G.o.dou as if nothing had
happened — right in front of all the cla.s.smates and teachers.
"Good morning everyone. Youre all early today as well... Aya, why is
G.o.dous face so terrible, what happened? Aha, you must be unhappy that
you werent able to see my face until now. I also wanted to see the
adorable you earlier, which is why I rushed here. But then it ended up
being this late, is it acceptable?"
Completely shameless and speaking total rubbish, she approached
G.o.dous side.
The stares from the rest of the cla.s.s were painfully stabbing away at
G.o.dou.
(Especially the boys. If those glares were knives, then G.o.dou would have
been shredded into a thousand pieces by now.)
G.o.dou made a decision as he tried to push away Erica who was leaning
tightly against him. No sacrifice would be too great, if this woman would
only come to school on time properly.
The result was, visiting Ericas room and going to school together became
a daily routine.
...Perhaps, it is precisely because I am going to school together with that
fellow that I am being misunderstood? This question had entered G.o.dous
mind.
Shrugging off the jeering gaze of the sister who saw him off, G.o.dou left the
house.
Ericas new residence was a luxury apartment on Hongou Street, roughly
five minutes of walkina distance away. They lived on the tenth floor of a
twelve-story 2LDK.
As usual, G.o.dou called using the intercom at the entrance.
"Yes, may I know who is it?"
"Good morning, Anna-san, its me, Kusanagi."
"Ah, G.o.dou-sama, thanks for your efforts every day, please enter."
The high pitched voice — bright, clear and outgoing — clearly conveyed the
cheerfulness of the speaker through the intercom.
Pa.s.sing through the door, G.o.dou took the elevator up to the destination
floor. To G.o.dou, who had always lived in a simple detached house, it felt a
little uncomfortable each time he entered and exited the luxury apartment
that was protected by a security system of automated locks.
Pressing the bell at the door to Ericas unit, the door immediately opened.
"Good morning, do please come in."
The one who came to receive him was Arianna Hayama Arialdi.
The apprentice mage at the "Copper Black Cross" magic a.s.sociation, as
well as the a.s.sistant and personal caregiver (basically the maid) of the
Templar Knight Erica Blandelli — the one who held the t.i.tle Great Knight.
She was the servant in charge of all domestic ch.o.r.es in this apartment.
"Doesnt todays great weather make one so happy? Lately, due to the
cloudy or rainy days, I have been feeling troubled by the laundry not
drying."
Arianna gave a refreshing smile as she welcomed G.o.dou inside.
A face that seemed younger than her nineteen years of age, and gave an
impression of great cleverness and competence... However, the truth was
much more unfortunate, for she is a cla.s.sic case where "one cannot be
judged by appearances."
"So Anna-san, has that fellow Erica woken up today?"
G.o.dou hastily asked as he was brought to the living room.
Though he already knew Erica had no ability to get up by herself, G.o.dou
still tried to harbor some hope.
"Probably, I heard some noises just now from the direction of the bedroom.
Ah, if you wish, would you like a Cappuccino while you are waiting? If
youre hungry, perhaps youd like a little soup from yesterday, if you dont
mind."
Anna asked with a smile as cute as a lily.
A pure smile that warmed you from the heart. A girl who can smile like that
surely cannot fall into misfortune.
As G.o.dou thought to himself, he glanced into the distance at the pressure
cooker sitting on the electric stove in the kitchen.
A bad feeling.
Perhaps a bias created by first impressions. But maybe noticing danger is
a warning imparted by the instincts of a Campione. One should avoid
danger as much as possible.
"I already had breakfast at home, so Ill pa.s.s on the soup."
A perfect answer.
Of course, at an age of a healthy appet.i.te, G.o.dous stomach can surely
handle a second breakfast without issue. However, the exception is a
particular product of Annas cooking.
...It was about a month ago, the first time visiting this room.
To serve G.o.dou, the guest of her mistress Erica, Arianna had offered her
personal cooking.
Handmade spaghetti with cream sauce, thinly sliced cheese and ham,
bread with added sausage and vegetables, appetizers of fresh slices of
raw fish and cold cuts — all of them tasted excellent, and were most
satisfying. However, the exception was the final soup presented on a dish.
"Im dieting currently, so Ill stop here."
Erica, who had been eating heartily mouthful by mouthful, suddenly put
down her knife and fork.
Despite her slim figure, her appet.i.te greatly exceeded a normal male.
Although it felt really suspicious, G.o.dou could not find a reason to refuse
this soup colored a strange shade of red, so he had taken a small sip.
All the adjectives of the j.a.panese language could "hardly describe it," so
G.o.dou gave up.
Thats the kind of taste it was.
An indescribable taste. Simple adjectives of sour, sweet, bitter or spicy,
etc, did not suffice, and one simply couldnt imagine what kind of
ingredients went into making it.
Inevitably, G.o.dou had shifted his gaze to Erica, who returned a malevolent
smile.
(Didnt I mention it before, that one needs to be careful with Ariannas
cooking?)
(If, if thats the case, then, at least give a warning.)
As she communicated with G.o.dou by exchanging glances, Erica drank her
after-meal Espresso with an air of nonchalance.
Remembering the lesson he had learnt, G.o.dou accepted only the
Cappuccino this morning.
Calming himself, G.o.dou waited for Arianna to return from the master
bedroom.
...But she came back immediately.
"Sorry, G.o.dou-sama. Erica-sama only woke for a moment to say she had
no mood to get up from bed without the kiss of the prince, and that G.o.dou
should have been brought here earlier... "
Arianna seemed pitiful as she reported that Erica had gone back to sleep.
G.o.dou furrowed his brow.
Of course, he never expected that girl to get up so simply. Even if he
offered a morning call service from his home, that fellow would have simply
hung up the phone on him.
Was there really no other way but to enter the room and wake her up?
"That fellow always creates a ch.o.r.e for others in the morning — "
G.o.dou complained as he left the living room and intruded into Ericas
bedroom.
The mistress of this home was peacefully sleeping away with light
breathing noises, wrapped in the blanket on the bed.
"You really went back to sleep, didnt you..."
The rooms interior condition gave G.o.dou a shock as he entered.
Completely unlike the living s.p.a.ce of a girl living in the 201 0s, it was a
room full of books and antiques.
Amidst paperbacks were popular magazines, as well as ancient books in
English, Italian, Latin, Chinese and all sorts of different languages on the
book shelves above. Though neither CD nor MP3 players were found,
there was an extremely old record player.
They were arranged neatly, but surely it was not through the owners
efforts.
Most likely, it was Arianna who cleans up. As if to support this hypothesis,
scattered all over the floor beneath the bed were the clothes probably
taken off last night.
A t-shirt and shorts, as well as a few sc.r.a.ps of water-colored cloth — one
piece, two pieces.
What is this combination of cloth?
G.o.dou cannot imagine anything good out of it, and tells himself to stop
paying attention to it as he neared the bed.
"Hey, Erica, youre going to be late if you dont get up. This is no good."
G.o.dou shook the girls body, trying to wake her.
Martial artists in certain swordsmen novels often possess the ability to
wake up when approached in their sleep, but clearly this mage and genius
swordswoman is devoid of this skill. She probably would explain it as
"presumably because there was no change in killing intent."
"...Let me sleep a little longer. I was up till 4am last night watching Bruce
Lee videos, and am still very sleepy. Please, Ill kiss you later, ok? G.o.dou."
Erica said this without even opening her eyes.
This Italian girl surprisingly turned out to be a fan of the great kung fu star.
To have studied these videos from that era to such a degree.
"No way. You shouldnt be watching those things when you have school,
get up quickly. How about I watch the Die Hard trilogy with you on the
weekend?"
"Bruce is not enough, you need to add Jet Li as well."
At least she was finally conscious, and greeted G.o.dou h.e.l.lo.
"Jackie Chan and Chow Yun Fat together as well, get up, time for school."
"Yes, getting up right away, G.o.dou sure is bad. Youre probably the first
boy who ever got me out of bed by force... Hey, Im getting up, come give
me a morning kiss..."
Getting up from bed was the only time when Erica lost her usually
dominating and confident demeanor.
Like a child, speaking as if she wanted to be spoilt.
As G.o.dou answered her while he pulled away the blanket wrapped around
her — he froze completely. The pale white neck and the naked back were
entirely revealed.
Due to sleeping with her back turned, it was fortunate that the front could
not be seen.
However, because the curvaceous body part — whose lines from the waist
to the b.u.t.tocks are like an artistic drawing — was going to be revealed,
G.o.dou frantically covered her once again with the blanket.
"E-Erica... You, youre not properly dressed?"
"I did wear clothes. I dont sleep nude you know, its just that around the
time of dawn I couldnt go back to sleep so I took them off... No problem, I
did put on perfume... Just like that actress from before — "
Erica got up all of a sudden.
At the same time, the blanket began to slide off the clearly unclothed upper
torso, and her bountiful cleavage was revealed from below.
G.o.dou immediately caught the falling blanket.
"Erica, put on some clothes! Please! Please put on your clothes first!"
"Yes — then, first lets wear... the underwear in the second drawer from the
bottom, G.o.dou can pick whichever ones you prefer..."
To G.o.dou who just heard a terrifying sentence, Erica smiled faintly.
A different smile from the usual devils smile, it was a true and innocent
smile. Perhaps because she had just risen from bed, the crafty witch was
acting a little more honest.
Frightened by this fresh feeling, G.o.dou continued to beg.
"Dont joke around, choose it yourself!"
"Still lacking in ambition eh? Ah, help me take out the ones I was wearing
yesterday, did they fall on the ground?"
"Those are underwear. Is it really ok to leave them somewhere that men
can see?"
"Its fine if its G.o.dou, for you are special. Even seeing my naked body is
totally fine for you."
"No way, that is completely out of the question. An-anna-san, please could
you bring something for Erica to wear? Please, quickly!"
To Ericas words which made G.o.dou panic, Arianna calmly smiled and ran
over.
G.o.dous recent mornings pretty much all felt like this.
Part 2
The high school division of Jounan Academy, Year 1, Cla.s.s 5.
Here was the cla.s.sroom of Erica and G.o.dou, and by the way, the two were
neighbors.
Actually Erica was originally seated much further away, but on the first day
she transferred, she suddenly gave that speech.
A month ago, during homeroom in the morning.
The foreign student from Italy had introduced herself with perfect
j.a.panese.
Afterwards, Erica, who had been seated next to a window, began smiling
as she hummed proudly to herself. Then she proceeded to casually walk to
G.o.dous seat and suddenly announced.
"First of all I must make this clear, I, Erica Blandelli have already promised
my future to someone, and that is this person, Kusanagi G.o.dou. — hoho,
from today onwards we will always be together, G.o.dou."
As she delivered those words, she deftly embraced G.o.dou who
desperately wanted to flee, and kissed him upon the cheek.
Elegantly capturing G.o.dou who had been on alert — this must surely count
as a miraculous skill — Erica then began to give a speech.
Two people in love, who cannot be separated even for a moment.
And so she hoped for cooperation to obtain her rightful seat belonging by
his side.
"There can be no place for me to sit except beside Kusanagi G.o.dou.
Would you help us who are in love, and accept such willfulness?"
G.o.dou was shocked that Erica made such a request.
No, no matter how you look at it, that is totally unreasonable. One was truly
speechless at this choice of action.
The surrounding cla.s.smates all suddenly left their seats, and started to
reorganize themselves to accommodate Ericas seating request. Even the
teacher had nothing to say.
At that time, Erica must have been using magic similar to hypnosis.
And so it came to be, the two of them were seated next to each other, and
their relationship was officially recognized within the cla.s.s.
"Hey G.o.dou, lets go for lunch, Arianna prepared sandwiches for me
today."
Erica joyfully said as the bell rang for the lunch break. G.o.dou immediately
began to feel his body being pierced by vast amounts of murderous intent.
— Its that guy Kusanagi again, we see this every single day!
— Ch! Our Erica, why would she go with that guy!
— If this level of hate can become a murder weapon, I, I will be able to kill
this guy!
— You boy, even h.e.l.l is too mild for you!
"Hey! Erica, why dont you try having lunch with other girls for once? I will
go to the school cafeteria."
Pressured by the indescribable stress, G.o.dou attempted to offer a
suggestion.
The dark aura exuded by the surrounding boys has been intensifying
through each pa.s.sing day.
Jealousy, hate, revulsion, murderous intent, enmity. If a measuring device
existed to quantify these negative emotions, who knew what values would
be recorded in this cla.s.sroom?
"What are you talking about? Even for the girls, everybody supports us.
Dont ruin the mood with such words."
G.o.dou sighed at Ericas simple response.
Erica Blandellis political and negotiation skills can truly be horrifying.
She was definitely not a person with a good att.i.tude at receiving others. In
fact, the first time she met G.o.dou, she was mostly arrogant and cold.
However, as long as she willed it, she can be a diplomatic expert who gets
along well with anyone.
She possessed beauty and elegance beyond the daughters of high cla.s.s
families, extraordinary eloquence of speech, social strategy which neither
compromised nor created conflict, first impressions convincing others that
she was a special existence, and exceptional charisma fitting for a leader.
If a person of such a disposition were to get serious, no high school
student in j.a.pan would be her match.
Even when her character is so p.r.o.ne to doing as she pleased, Ericas
actions have not garnered any ill talk behind her back. G.o.dou truly
admired this accomplishment.
The trouble was this — Ericas total disregard for hiding her affections
towards a specific boy was greatly problematic.
Due to the well wishes of the girls, as well as the anger of the boys, hate
and admiration had combined to double the pressure on G.o.dou.
"But then, it would be nice to have lunch outside once in a while. Since
todays weather is fine, how about the central courtyard? To go to the
benches there, wouldnt that be great?"
"Sorry, only that choice is impossible, lets eat in the cla.s.sroom."
G.o.dou immediately answered to the smiling Erica.
The central courtyard was where not only high school students but many
middle schoolers pa.s.sed by, especially during the lunch break. One must
avoid such attention seeking actions at all costs in a place seen by so
many people.
"Then how about as usual, Ill go buy the drinks, what do you want?"
"Tea then, the non-sweet type."
Alternating between buying drinks and bread was the agreement they had
decided beforehand.
As Erica left to fulfill her turn to buy drinks, G.o.dou began to prepare the
area for lunch.
Laying out the napkin and placing the lunchbox on it, there were Italian
cold cuts, sandwiches containing ham and vegetables, as well as olives in
plastic containers, apples, etc.
A lunch prepared by Arianna, full of European style.
Recalling the first time when Erica just moved here, the memory remains
fresh in G.o.dous mind when he lectured Erica for planning on bringing wine
and champagne bought from the hotel as drinks for lunch.
"Whats the matter, Takagi?"
Since the boy who sat behind him seemed to be saying something, G.o.dou
ventured to ask.
G.o.dou was already quite tall, but Takagi was taller still, reaching nearly
185cm in height. He should be in the Kendo club.
"G.o.dou, let me share with you some good news. Right now, all the boys of
our Cla.s.s 5 are enduring the acc.u.mulation of rage and hate towards your
atrocious acts, as if ignoring our existence..."
"Im sorry, but the one ignoring others is Erica, not me."
"Ch! Whenever you talk about yourself, you always think you are in the
right! You think youre so special — fine, if youre going to be that way, we
will take emergency measures."
Takagi spoke decisively.
Why? He — no, including him, all the boys staring at G.o.dou had their eyes
full of strong determination, its almost like those of two boxers in an
undecided match, dodging each others attacks and waiting for an
opportunity to counterattack.
"Emergency... measures?"
"Yes. We will fight poison with poison. If you wont heed the feelings of us
men, then we will retaliate with the appropriate measures! ...To be frank,
we already sent someone to report to the other cla.s.s next door."
"Why the cla.s.s next door... Could it be!?"
"Ho, you realized it. But its too late. We tried to avoid this until now
because it hurts us too. But in order to torment you, we dare to walk the
path of pain."
As Takagi gave a speech full of heroic sacrifice, she arrived.
Mariya Yuri of the First Year, Sixth Cla.s.s.
G.o.dous sister Shizukas uppercla.s.sman at the tea ceremony club she
belonged to, the one who represented the j.a.panese wizardry world, and
the Hime-Miko whose appearance never failed to catch G.o.dous attention.
As she entered the door to Cla.s.s 5, G.o.dou found her walking over to him.
"Kusanagi-san, may I borrow a moment of your time?"
"Yes, yes, what is it?"
The number one top beauty in the school alongside Erica, was asking with
a sharp glare.
Her beauty was like sakura flowers blossoming quietly on the mountain
side, and felt neither arrogant nor ostentatious.
One could easily fall into obsession just by watching her.
"I am reminding you precisely because this is inappropriate. I am in a
different cla.s.s, and cannot report you to the discipline committee...
However, the students in this cla.s.s only hope you will not ignore them."
"Uh, umm..."
In front of Yuri who spoke persuasively with reason, G.o.dou had a face full
of panic. This beautiful miko-sama was truly hard to handle. Once she
started lecturing, one would inevitably start listening respectfully.
"I heard that every day during lunch, Kusanagi-san and Erica-san are
doing that... is... is it called flirting? Speaking intimate words lacking in
caution. This is a school, dont you think you should save those for a more
appropriate time and place?"
"We werent flirting! Only having lunch together!"
"Obviously lying. Due to this, Cla.s.s 5 is so troubled that they are almost
crying... The one with me just now mentioned it. Something like Kusanagi
is treating all the boys who dont have girlfriends as fools by flirting with
Erica every day. We must all be concerned, and so forth. And spoken
tearfully too."
Behind Yuri, who was lecturing with righteous anger, were...
The boys in the cla.s.s, all of them watching the cornered G.o.dou with
malevolent smiles. Those evil expressions fully betrayed their feelings.
— Hehehe, as expected, G.o.dou cannot defy Mariya.
— But then, to be tricked by that awful acting, and to come to this
cla.s.sroom specifically, isnt Mariya coming personally for G.o.dou after all?
— d.a.m.n! Unacceptable! Why do such good things only happen to that
guy?
— How enviable. I also want to get to know the Mariya-san "who has no
interest in boys" and be lectured by her.
— Oh! Look, Erica is back, let the show really begin.
"Ah, its Yuri? Its rare to see you here during lunch?"
Holding drink cartons of oolong tea and orange juice, Erica had returned to
the cla.s.sroom.
"You want to join us for lunch? As long as you dont disturb G.o.dou and my
fun, youre welcomed."
"Unfortunately, the reason I am here is to obstruct you two."
Erica and Yuri silently faced off with strong determination.
These two are truly incompatible in personality. Whenever G.o.dou was
getting teased by Erica, Yuri always expressed disapproval if she
happened to witness it.
Ever since the first time they met, the same type of situation had unfolded
countless times.
The problem was that this mostly happened in school, in full view of a
substantial number of the high school and middle school students.
"Ohoh, its the battle between the mistress and the wife." "It must be time
for G.o.dou to confess his sins." "Kusanagi that fellow, when did he start
getting so close to Mariya?" "Idiot, the two of them must be childhood
friends." "Is that so? So because Mariya failed to recognize her feelings for
Kusanagi, the result was the intrusion of Erica from Italy!?" "Choosing
between the j.a.panese legal wife Mariya, and the Italian mistress Erica,
what an ultimate dilemma!"
Sigh, the cause of this misunderstanding has its reasons.
Perhaps due to nationality, most people would think that Yuri and G.o.dou
knew each other first. However, the truth was the opposite, but jumping to
conclusions could be a scary thing.
"...This feels a bit noisy."
"You still dont seem to understand what I am saying, why dont we change
locations? To the roof then, a less conspicuous location."
Noticing the people around Yuri discussing all sorts of theories excitedly,
G.o.dou made a proposition.
It was already impossible to converse in such an environment, and G.o.dou
gave Erica a look. Truly expected of a comrade, she immediately
understood and neatly wrapped up the food on the table.
G.o.dou took the hand of the miko-sama who seemed to be in a trance, and
walked towards the cla.s.sroom exit.
"Ah?" While Yuri realized with surprise she was being led walking by the
hand, Erica had caught up.
— Recently, trying to eat lunch casually has become impossible.
G.o.dou complained in his mind as he bolted out of the cla.s.sroom like an
advanced attack party.
Part 3
It was quite chaotic on the roof during lunch.
A few people were eating lunch in groups, while others were playing ball. It
was rather lively.
Unlike the cla.s.sroom, G.o.dou and his group would not attract attention
here.
"Should have come here from the start, finally some peace and quiet."
"If its just two people eating lunch normally, then it could be quiet
anywhere, do not blame the reason on others."
Yuri continued to oppose vehemently to G.o.dou who had made the correct
choice in location.
She had also picked up her own lunchbox along the way when they
pa.s.sed by the 6th Cla.s.s.
"Todays weather is great, and being outside makes one feel at ease. Isnt
this nice?"
Erica began to eat her sandwiches while speaking indifferently.
By the way, Arianna had prepared equal portions for both Erica and
G.o.dou. Incommensurate with her slim figure, Ericas appet.i.te was extreme.
"...So, how do Kusanagi-san and Erica-san usually eat lunch?"
Yuris lunchbox, on the other hand, was a normal girls portion.
As to her holding of the chopsticks, they were used in a most elegant
manner. Perhaps she was well taught from a young age.
"Usually I am being ha.s.sled by Erica while being talked about by others."
"What ha.s.sling... Really, there are mountains worth of boys who want to
eat lunch with me."
To Erica who sighed as she spoke, G.o.dou was staring at her with eyes of
resentment.
In reality, to this date, there had been quite a few people who tried to
intrude in between the two of them. However, every time they were driven
away by Erica who always guessed their intentions.
... Since she was a girl, they could not lose their temper and scold her.
In these areas, Erica was completely flawless.
Towards boys, she was entirely merciless. With an elegant smile she
would say "Youre in the way, could you please leave?"
"If you already know youre popular, could you stop that Queen-like
att.i.tude? If you continue to do as you please, I have to take the brunt of the
backlash."
Even though G.o.dou was very displeased, Erica only smiled in a relaxed
manner.
"Isnt that great? To be the exclusive recipient of my love. Arent there
many benefits?"
"...Sometimes I really admire this self-confidence of yours."
"If you could respond decisively, Kusanagi-san, I dont believe it would
have progressed to this. First and foremost, one must always do things
with determination."
Yuris voice was filled with thorns of disapproval.
"Ah, yes." Without realizing it, G.o.dou began to retreat.
Perhaps it was due to her pointing out the truth, G.o.dou felt like he cannot
give a reb.u.t.tal. It was completely unlike those times when he argued with
Erica.
"Ah, yes, G.o.dou. That matter, isnt it time for it to be determined whether it
is accepted or not? The exact time will be today after school."
"That matter... is it something that can be brought home?"
Erica suddenly brought up something that immediately caused G.o.dou
agitation.
Not long after Erica had transferred, she immediately made the request of
meeting and greeting G.o.dous family.
"In that case, didnt we talk about it already, so you still havent given up?"
"Of course. In preparation for the future, winning over G.o.dous family is a
necessary prerequisite."
Looks like joyfully talking about her deep scheming was one of Ericas
most adept skills.
To this exchange of words, Yuri frowned in a barely perceptible manner.
"Shizuka-san seems to have heard about Erica-san, and is most wary in a
serious state of alert. When this kind of female approaches her brother, it is
only natural."
The younger sister Shizuka was a 3rd year student in the middle school
division.
Since the relationship with the blonde beauty had become the gossip of
the school, their relationship was already known. For the sake of harmony
within the family, G.o.dou had wanted to prevent this meeting.
"Come on, visiting my home isnt that fun anyway?"
"Even if its not very fun, meeting the family of my lover, and having our
relationship recognized officially is very important."
To Ericas suggestion, G.o.dou immediately rebuffed.
"We are not lovers, and there is no need for official recognition!"
"Then theres no other way. Imouto-san is also in this school, right? 3rd
Year 2nd Cla.s.s of the middle school, her register number is 9. Her seat is
the second one in the row closest to the corridor."
Unlike the innocent child this morning, this was the true horrifying face of
the witch.
A smile appeared at the corner of Ericas lip, completely expressing her
malevolent intentions. Dominating G.o.dou, causing him to admit defeat
from the depths of his heart.
"The grandfather who retired 6 years ago from the university position of
professor of folklore studies. Living carefree nowadays and taking up all
the ch.o.r.es of the household. The mother works at Yushima."
"Why do you know so much detail about my family?"
"Since G.o.dou did not introduce them to me, I decided to investigate a bit.
To suddenly visit and meet them would be quite strange, so I have been
waiting for you to invite me... However, there are times when one must
take action for oneself."
Cornered by Erica, G.o.dou only had two choices.
To let Erica introduce herself in a situation when G.o.dou himself was
absent, or to bring Erica to the house, and face the family together. Which
would it be? That was the question.
"Sigh, I still cant think of a better solution..."
G.o.dou was becoming further agitated. Was there a less risky option — ?
Certain of her victory, Erica was chuckling proudly to herself. Was there
really no trump card to reverse defeat — yes, there was a way.
Right here beside them, was another girl.
G.o.dou looked at her frowning face full of propriety.
"Mariya, would you happen to be free today after school? If its convenient,
could you come visit my home? Along with this girl — Erica."
G.o.dou tried to ask with total sincerity.
Yuri stared at G.o.dou with a lost expression.
"For m-me to visit your... home, Kusanagi-san?"
"Yes. If I bring Erica to my home, I cannot restrain her by myself. If its
possible, could you help keep an eye over her — "
"I see... In that case, I do not mind."
Yuri nodded as she glanced at Erica.
"Indeed, Kusanagi-san, letting your family meet Erica-san would probably
be a dangerous matter. A sudden visit to a boys home is a little unusual.
But given that is the situation, it cannot be helped. I have no choice but to
accept."
"Thank you, Mariya... You wont mind, right, Erica?"
Counterattack success! G.o.dou returned a smile of victory.
Erica seemed slightly impressed. She smiled and nodded.
"G.o.dou... Do you really think your little trick can stop me? Do not
underestimate this [Diavolo Rosso] so easily."
"Hmph. I wont do as you wish forever, be prepared for that."
At that time, G.o.dou still had not realized he was digging his own grave.
Part 4
Uh, did he do something wrong?
Watching the delicate expressions on Shizukas face, G.o.dou felt troubled.
If it was just himself, he definitely would not be able to control Erica. With
Yuris help however, there should be a way.
— Then what was the matter with this bad feeling?
After school, G.o.dou and Erica, as well as Yuri walked back to the
Kusanagi residence.
Walking for roughly ten minutes from Jounan Academy, they reached the
shopping street in Nezu of the Bunkyo ward.
In that area was a closed down j.a.panese book store and the home of the
Kusanagi family. G.o.dou led the two girls into the living room.
"Youre home, Onii-chan. Yes, listen to me. Grandfather said that tonights
dinner is hand-rolled sushi — Anyway... lets go shopping together..."
They were greeted by Grandfather Kusanagi Ichirou and Shizuka who had
already returned from school.
After half a day, her mood seemed to have improved, and the younger
sisters speech had become more relaxed — however, her state was rapidly
deteriorating mid-sentence.
The grandfather calmly smiled at the two girls his grandson brought home.
"Ah... what should I say, you even brought some friends."
"Yes, all sorts of friends..."
As she finished speaking, Shizuka finally greeted Yuri as her senior in the
club activities.
"h.e.l.lo, Mariya-senpai. And that one over there must be Erica-san who has
a close relationship with Onii-chan? I already know... from rumors."
"h.e.l.lo Shizuka. Havent I introduced myself on the phone before? A
pleasure to meet you, grandfather. I apologize for my sudden intrusion
today. There are things I must talk to G.o.dous family about, if I may?"
Erica greeted them with a most lady-like smile.
When she acted like that, one cannot help but marvel at what a perfect
high cla.s.s lady she was.
"Hoho... Lets take your seats first, I will prepare the tea."
And so, everyone came into the living room of the Kusanagi family.
Around the large table sat G.o.dou with Erica on his right and Yuri on the
left. Opposite was Shizuka with an intense glare, while the cheerful
grandfather sat on the side.
Somehow it evolved into an awkward atmosphere along the likes of
"hopeless, you rascal." Why was that?
Grandfather suddenly addressed Yuri.
Perhaps it was because Yuri spoke less than Erica, so he became a bit
curious.
"Yes, I am Mariya. My utmost apologies for todays sudden intrusion.
Shizuka-san and I both belong to the same tea ceremony club."
"Then that means youre Shizukas senior, right? Did you become friends
with G.o.dou due to Shizuka?"
Grandfather nodded at Yuris earnest greeting and thoughtlessly asked.
However, the one who answered this loaded question was Shizuka.
"That has no relation to me whatsoever. Onii-chan and Mariya-senpais
relationship suddenly became close at some unknown point in time, and
they even met secretly behind my back during weekends."
G.o.dou began to realize the mistake he had made.
Although the overall strategy was correct in bringing Yuri as an ally, the
unexpected result was greatly increasing the battle spirit of the adversary
(the younger sister).
However... it was still too early to write it off as a failure.
With his will to fight rising, his targets have also increased to two. However,
if the will to battle has increased, but the targets have doubled, then it will
still be tough to handle.
"When did Onii-chan and Erica-san meet is also a mystery as well. When
we talked on the phone last time, no one would have thought she was
foreign due to her excellent j.a.panese. Onii-chan and Erica-sans
relationship seems to be extremely close? Its already the talk of the
school."
Shizuka also began to direct her enmity towards Erica, and started a two
p.r.o.nged attack.
Now was the key moment, and G.o.dou immediately responded.
"In truth, Erica should be the one closer to me, but thats it. Even for
Shizuka, you must have many close friends, right?"
"Yes, I have many friends. However, I have never had a friend who made
an engagement-like declaration on the first day of transferring into the
school."
Shizuka rebuked her brothers question flawlessly with another reference
to Erica.
It would be necessary for evidence to be provided by this blonde witch in
order to prove his innocence. G.o.dou made a decision as he waited for her
to speak.
...Erica showed what seemed like a smile of pity.
As if boasting she can win as a challenge, G.o.dou suddenly felt very
displeased.
"I am very sorry that the matter of G.o.dou and I has created such kind of
rumor."
"There is no credibility coming from the person who created the rumor. Isnt
the one who forced me into all this trouble you yourself, Erica?"
"Dont, dont say it like that... there was no forcing at all."
Erica swiftly held out her hand.
By the time he realized it was no good, it was already too late — G.o.dous
right hand on the table had been clasped by Ericas right hand.
It wasnt exactly fast.
Rather, it was a slow, elegant motion. However, G.o.dou still wasnt able to
evade.
...When one skilled with swords chops down with a shinai (bamboo blade),
even a fierce warrior will not be able to escape. This is truly one of Ericas
amazing skills.
"Anyway, about that, why dont you answer properly, G.o.dou. Youre just
not being forthcoming enough. But then again, this is one of your cute
points."
Shizukas gaze was beginning to look as if it was colder than freezing
temperature.
The obvious reason was the pair of hands which appeared to be
harmoniously holding each other.
"No, its not like that. Do not misunderstand. It is Ericas brute force which
is holding my hand down."
"Onii-chan is the worst! Your denials are futile."
G.o.dou was trying with all his strength to extract his hand from Ericas grip.
However, this blonde devil easily suppressed it with a relaxed expression
upon her face. Not only that, she was acting as if lovingly caressing
G.o.dous hand, trying to intertwine their fingers intimately together.
G.o.dou truly hated the magic which granted this woman such demonic
strength.
What if he tried to stand up with all his might, would he be able to escape
from such a skill?
No, he would not.
There was one time when he had been in a similar situation. He ended up
losing balance, falling to the ground, only to be hypnotized and played
around with. At times like these, this witch only knew how to press her
advantages to the limit and pose with perfect victory.
"Erica-san, please have some restraint with your pranks!"
G.o.dou felt relieved from the loud cry which echoed. Truly, bringing her
here was the right decision.
"Shizuka-san and grandfather, please allow me to explain the situation.
Perhaps you may find it completely unbelievable and a pack of lies to
cover up the truth. However, Erica-san and Kusanagi-san are not in a
boyfriend girlfriend relationship."
Yuris voice was awe-inspiring, and truly reliable.
Sounding like the clear pure tone of a bell, even Shizuka began to focus
her attention on her seniors face.
"Before, Kusanagi-san has sworn in front of me — that he definitely is not
going out with Erica-san. Should this oath be false, he will gladly submit to
death without a word of objection. I, at that time did believe that
Kusanagi-san was not lying. No, I wanted to believe."
...It was a month ago, the night Athena was defeated and repelled.
In order to convince Yuri who insisted that G.o.dou and Erica terminate their
unhealthy — no, lovers relationship. G.o.dou had come up with this solution,
and even swore an oath with his life as forfeit.
The result was, at the very least Yuri acknowledged G.o.dous opinion.
"Admittedly, these two people have a very unhealthy relationship, and it is
completely unacceptable. However, it is due to Erica-sans despicable
attempts at seduction, that Kusanagi-san has been ha.s.sled to within an
inch of his life."
Yuris defense continued. Eh? Does this still count as defending?
"To be honest, this person really tries hard, but always seems to be doing
inexplicable things, and never considers the trouble he brings to others
around him. He is hopeless, and a person who doesnt know how to lie.
One would hope that he would strive to keep his promises, but the end
result is he fails the majority of the time."
Erica on the other side, was silently laughing away.
Since her grip had relaxed, G.o.dou hurriedly withdrew his right hand. But
why? There was no feeling that crisis had been averted at all.
"If he cannot prudently reject Erica-sans advances, then Kusanagi-san
should show more determination in his contact with Erica-san. Waking her
up every morning is spoiling her, and leaning your bodies close to each
other, to be honest it is totally an eyesore. Though you have completely
failed on all accounts, I believe you are innocent, even if it is not my
intention."
At that moment, G.o.dou finally realized the error he had committed.
Asking for reinforcements was correct. But this was Yuri, who always
spoke truthfully without any knowledge of tact. Was she an appropriate ally
in such a situation? The answer laid there.
"How is it? Kusanagi-san and Erica-san are not going out, can everyone
understand?"
To Yuris sincere gaze of questioning, Shizuka nodded her head.
And turned her gaze, full of despise and mockery, at her brother.
"Yes, hearing this explanation clears up the gist of these twos relationship.
But I still dont understand the situation deep enough."
G.o.dou and Erica, as well as Yuri, gazed at Shizuka as she spoke.
"But, lets get to the bottom of this, why would my idiot Onii-chan need to
swear such an oath to Mariya-senpai? What kind of relationship does
Mariya-senpai have with Onii-chan?"
"Eh? Just ordinary friends. This and that — "
How could it be explained that one was the G.o.d-slaying Devil King and the
other was the Hime-Miko representing the j.a.panese magic world?
To the honest Yuri, letting her improvise a cover up was very difficult.
"From the words just now, its almost like the wife is a childhood friend.
Legal wife and lover, it looks like the rumors are true. Onii-chan, well done,
doesnt this feel just like Grandfather and deceased Grandmother back
then, what a great atmosphere?"
"Eh!? What are you talking about, Shizuka-san?"
Dont treat me as the same type as Grandfather, Im begging you...
Shizukas words, full of subtle meanings, caused Yuri to lose her
composure. G.o.dou frowned.
No matter what, he didnt want to be compared with Grandfather.
"Grandfather and Grandmother? What was that like?"
Piqued with interest, Ericas inquiry caused Shizuka to sigh deeply.
"In all generations of the Kusanagi family, all the men have idle hands.
Examples include playboy heirs who wrecked their inheritances amusing
themselves with geisha, and had illegitimate children popping up out of the
woodwork after their deaths. Its been over 200 years, but there really have
been all sorts."
Shizuka glanced at her Grandfather who was sipping tea in small
mouthfuls.
Without saying a single word for the past while, and sitting as still as air,
the grandfather Kusanagi Ichirou, returned his granddaughters gaze with a
gentle smile.
"Hahaha, Shizuka. I dont quite agree with what you say about all the
ancestors, but then again, not all of it is completely wrong."
"From the same bloodline, the only recent one with rare capability was
Grandfather. But Grandfather was not only a playboy but there were many
women who approached uninvited. Grandma sure had a tough time
sweeping those pests away."
To his granddaughters accusations, the Grandfather smiled and shook his
head.
"Though I socialized with all sorts of women in my youth, but my heart was
true to my wife after we married."
"Im innocent! In general, I am totally unlike Grandfather. Personality is also
completely different!"
Shizuka shrugged and ignored G.o.dous protest.
Furthermore, Yuri seemed to agree with this grandfather-grandson
comparison and said something like now that you say it, it does..., even
Erica seemed to be nodding her head impressed.
Sigh, such situations made one feel that the face is truly more important
than the personality sometimes.
"True, the personalities are different, but the end result of their actions are
both extremely alike. I heard that others regarded Grandfather as a very
serious person in his youth, but isnt it the same for Onii-chan?"
Reflecting on himself, G.o.dou could not argue any more.
During the past spring of this year, defeating the G.o.d of war Verethragna
on the southern Italian island of Sardinia.
This ancient Persian deity had ten characteristic forms — Wind, Bull, White
Stallion, Camel, Boar, Youth, Raptor, Ram, Goat, as well as the Warrior.
G.o.dou, who defeated Verethragna, had no intention of obtaining those
powers. From then onwards, in the battles with G.o.ds and devil kings,
G.o.dou had damaged many world heritage sites.
This body was definitely unreasonable.
"Then, may I interrupt here? Its about time for dinner to be prepared. Ive
already readied the vinegar for tonights hand rolled sushi."
Grandfather suddenly stood up.
Probably in order to break up the current silence.
"Just a while ago I called Sakuraba-san at the fish shop and asked him to
choose some good ingredients. Why dont G.o.dou and Shizuka go pick
them up. Aya, dont forget to increase the portions for two additional
people."
Grandfather spoke as he turned to smile most affectionately at Erica and
Yuri.
"I hope you both dont mind staying for dinner? After all it is a rare
occasion. Of course, if you have curfews or other engagements, I wont
force you."
"No, Grandfather. Please let me stay no matter what."
Erica elegantly gave a bow from the side.
Seeing the two of them interact and turning out to be surprisingly
compatible, G.o.dou felt impressed. Erica and Grandfather are both people
with perfect social skills.
However, Yuri on the left side —
"I, I intruded so suddenly. If I stayed for dinner, it would be troublesome
right..."
"Not at all, Grandfather loves these kinds of situations. Gathering lots of
people to savor his cooking, and have a good drink."
To dispel Yuris hesitation, G.o.dou explained to her.
However, she felt there was a problem with this invitation. Yuri was
extremely surprised by the last sentence.
"Ah, ah, drink!?"
"Ah... You planned to drink today all along, right, Grandfather?"
"Is there a problem? G.o.dou and I are definitely fine. Im sure Erica-san
wont have a problem either — "
This is the old man whose poor role model included gradually
indoctrinating his middle school grandchildren with the taste of alcohol,
then pretended to explain it as an early lesson "to prevent binge drinking
and alcohol poisoning."
Seeing Ericas eyes flash, G.o.dou immediately yelled out.
"Please, lets not drink tonight. Letting Erica imbibe alcohol would be
catastrophic."
"Aya, G.o.dou, the right amount of alcohol has benefits to both health and
friendship."
"Wait a minute, Onii-chan, what exactly do you mean from what you just
said? Youre implying that you two drank alcohol together before! Please
explain with details!"
"That, thats right. Kusanagi-san, please explain what transpired."
The foolish comment was equivalent to adding new fuel to the fire.
As for the grandfather, he turned to his grandson in crisis and forced a faint
smile. G.o.dou felt that expression seemed to be saying "you still have much
to learn."
Part 5
"Thanks for having me today. Please relay my regards to everyone."
"Im sorry, Mariya, for forcing you to come along and making you stay this
late."
It was already past eight oclock at night by the time Yuri was setting off
from the Kusanagi home.
Apologizing as he greeted her farewell at the entrance, G.o.dou was seeing
her off with a face full of shame and regret.
"No, I was happy. Please dont say that."
"Really, then thats good. See you tomorrow."
"Yes, see you tomorrow. I take my leave."
Nodding towards each other with the smiling G.o.dou, Yuri bowed her head
seriously and walked out of the entrance way.
In the end, they had dinner after talking with Shizuka. With his eyes,
G.o.dou ordered Erica not to drink, and they chatted as they ate.
To Yuri who had few friends, pa.s.sing time like this was extremely rare.
Her overly serious way of speaking and elegant mannerisms were already
uncommon, and basically she was never invited to go out and have fun by
her peers.
She wasnt being shunned, but people just didnt want to be too
conspicuous. A little unfamiliar.
Since she herself was aware of it, she never tried to involve herself in
those circles either.
Just now during dinner, the one who spoke the least was Yuri.
But still, it felt pretty good.
Erica had the most to say, not only to G.o.dou, but also with his grandfather
and sister. Sometimes she even spoke a few sentences to Yuri.
Those sentences did not carry any domineering att.i.tude, and was
considerate of the others rhythm of speech, allowing her to enjoy
conversation in a relaxed manner.
As for G.o.dou who wasnt talkative to begin with, he concentrated on eating
instead of listening to them chat.
The only young man there, G.o.dous appet.i.te was ravenous. However, he
still entered the conversation during opportune moments between moving
his chopsticks and wolfing down his food.
As a member of the same club, Shizuka also understood Yuris personality
to a certain extent.
The main host, Grandfather Kusanagi was a very observant person, which
was consistent with his popularity with girls in his youth.
"Ah, Yuri-san. Seeing you is great, Ive been trying to find you for quite a
while. I beg you, please carry your cellphone with you, there are times
there are emergencies when contact is needed."
As Yuri made her way through the street of shops toward the closest Nezu
station, she was suddenly greeted by a voice.
This voice belonged to the young man dressed in a suit — Amakasu
Touma.
The representative of the History Compilation Committee, an organization
responsible for regulating the j.a.panese wizards and controlling information
about G.o.ds and supernatural oddities.
"Cellphone? I am sorry but I do not think I need such a thing. However,
how did you know I was here?"
To Yuris question. Amakasu replied with an awkward smile.
"I came here by chance. As I was wondering if I would be able to find
Yuri-san before you took the train, I waited here for a bit. When I called
your home, they told me you had visited a fellow students home near the
school."
"Is that so... Anyway, what business do you have with me today?"
So that meant, it was because she borrowed the phone at the Kusanagi
residence to call home and tell them she would be late.
Yuri asked once she understood.
"Actually theres a request for you. However, today is a bit late, so well
make the request tomorrow."
"Not a problem. If it is all right with you, let us finish it now?"
"No. It is something that needs to be discussed at a better location. Lets
make it tomorrow. To Yuri-san this should be a relaxing task. A grimoire
has been rumored to have appeared in Romania near the outskirts of
Croatia, so we wish for Yuri-san to help certify its authenticity."
To Amakasu who spoke rather frivolously, Yuri sighed.
"Amakasu-san, my spirit vision is not some convenient power that can see
everything. There are many occasions when nothing is revealed."
This mouth must be one of the reasons he has so few friends.
Yuri thought to herself as she chastised how lightly this History Compilation
Committee member was taking things.
The so-called spirit vision was definitely not an all-seeing power of
a.n.a.lysis. It was just a kind of ability bestowed by the G.o.ds on a whim like
an oracle.
"Then you are too humble. Even in Milan, the origin of magic in Eastern
Europe, there are no spirit vision users whose capability exceeds Yuri-san.
If you cant do it, then no one else can. Hope we can cooperate, if you
dont mind too much."
Amakasu began to laugh.
At that point it was useless to say any more. Yuri decided to accept
Amakasus request, especially since there were few reasons to refuse a
request made in such a manner.
"Fine, I understand. I will a.s.sist you tomorrow after school."
"Your help is appreciated. By the way, when you said you were visiting a
friend near school, could it be the home of Kusanagi G.o.dou?"
Abruptly, Amakasu changed the subject.
Do people deeply involved with magic and the G.o.ds have to be wary of
contact with the Campione?
"Yes... Umm, is there any problem with that? I do not believe there is any
need to deliberately distance myself from Kusanagi-san."
To this answer, Amakasu shook his head.
"Oh, no problem at all. Actually, its the opposite. Yuri is one of Kusanagi
G.o.dous most important friends, right? Take more initiative, go to his
house, or even invite him over to yours, its all good, keep it up."
"Is that so? ...Amakasu-san, things seem to have become a little unusual?"
Yuri became a little angry as she stared at the suspicious person in front of
her.
A strange premonition flowed into her heart. Unease, as well as a sudden
sense of accomplishment. Could this be some kind of prediction brought
about by the power of spirit vision?
"Anyway, lets talk about this in detail tomorrow. Take care... during this
wonderful evening."
Waving his hand, Amakasu departed.
References
1 . t 2LDK: 2LDK is a j.a.panese shorthand for an apartment with 2
bedrooms and a combined living room, dining room, and kitchen area.