Campione! Vol 9 Chapter 5

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, theres actually a very simple solution. It all depends on
Kusanagi-sans will."
From the beach, there was a clear view of the ocean illuminated orange by
the glow of dusk.
The young beautys 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 Ukishima across the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway to the
Umihotaru artificial island. However, she did not cause any destruction,
which is actually quite fortunate. As long as Kusanagi-san uses your
authority, and severs Athenas power by sweeping the [Sword] through the
entire area, everything will be restored."
Thats 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-sans 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."
Kaorus 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 Athenas 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 Campiones 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 Athenas matters.
"She... Is really about to die?"
Guineveres subterfuge. The matter of the Holy Grail. Athenas 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 cant possibly talk to that idiot!?"
Amongst all G.o.dous 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.dous 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 —
Whats going on, G.o.dou? You finally couldnt 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 youre not around, Im still very lively and not depressed at all.
Dont make up strange stories."
Of course not, its not like Im 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.
"Lets 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 moments
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."
Whats wrong? Ive 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, Im sure G.o.dou you dont 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?"
Its not like I require special permission, but I wont 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, its really up to myself how to handle things as I see fit —
Guided by that notion, G.o.dous 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.dous 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."
"Dont worry about it. Lets 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-Mikos 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 doesnt 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 didnt 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 its 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 thats the case, go with
Ena. Next time Ena plans on climbing the sacred grounds of Ukokusan. Its
a place where even locals do not venture for training unless they are
veterans. A very tough challenge. Its 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 were going, lets 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 were going out next time, lets bring Mariya and Liliana along as
well."
G.o.dou a.s.serted.
With those twos 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 Lilianas pa.s.sionate diatribe against the evils of food
additives and trans fatty acids.
"Lets rescue them tomorrow. Youll 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.
"Whats 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.dous
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
Enas 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! Youre okay!?"
G.o.dou was rea.s.sured to hear Amakasus 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 Enas 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. Im 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.
"Didnt 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 dont 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.
"Athenas 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 nights 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.dous
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 oclock 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.dous 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.
"Whats 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 Enas miko appearance briefly during
the battle against the Great Sage Equaling Heaven.
"You wear a miko outfit instead of pajamas?"
Isnt that kind of blasphemous... G.o.dou averted his gaze as he spoke.
This caused the premier Hi me- Miko to explain frantically.
"Its not always like this. But itd 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? Dont 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, its 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 Nadeshiko 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. Thats 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, theres still a chance of death...
So before Your Majesty sets off for battle, Enas body will accompany Your
Majesty for the night, to help restore your energy. Perhaps in case of the
worst outcome, Your Majestys 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. Lets just sit over there first."
"Ive been sitting down calmly from the start."
"T-Then sit in seiza. Sit properly and listen seriously to me."
"Im already sitting in seiza. Ena has been sitting seriously all this time. Its
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... Im 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.
"Ive already said it before. Ena is fine being a woman of convenience. Im
not concerned with formalities. Besides, hasnt 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. Dont say anything
like being a convenient woman is fine again. Sorry, Ena forgot."
Isnt 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 Majestys bride."
A direct expression of her wish.
She displayed a shyness which made her usual unbelievable behavior
seem like a sham.
Faced with Enas 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 doesnt Your Majesty want Ena to stay with you for the
night?"
I beg you, please dont 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 cant possibly have that kind of personality, it
cant be helped. And Your Majesty already has so many cute girls around
you..."
"Dont say nonsense, its nothing like that."
Faced with Enas 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. Its me whos not worthy."
G.o.dou spoke sincerely as he gazed into Enas 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, Enas 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 Enas 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, Enas 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. Its still too early for that."
"Eh eh? Ena isnt cute enough after all..."
"No, its not like that. How should I say it... I will... you — Could you wait for
the time when I finally have the ability to shoulder all the hardship suffered
by you girls?"
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 humanitys 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 Im still a student, but anyway, the problem is, I feel like Im
not worthy enough for you to go that far for me. I — dont want to indulge
myself in that area. I cannot lose to selfish desire."
"Cannot... lose?"
"Hoho, sorry. Im very grateful for your kind offer, but listen, Im going to
say some obstinate things."
He was in intimate contact with both Enas body and mind.
Who knew if other girls might join in the future? In that case, G.o.dous
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 wouldnt have survived my
battles to this day. Its 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 girls courtship came as a total surprise.
However, I have to finish tasks of higher priority first. Thus I will be
completely obstinate.
Well, perhaps there existed people who say stuff like "having someone to
protect might make me stronger." People who could make themselves
sound very justified. I dont 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 fools 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 its 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 users duties.
They could not permit themselves to be contaminated by the mundane
worlds 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 Nadeshiko cheerfully.
"But there were also husbands who went off to war and didnt 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-lets 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... Its
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-Mikos 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, Enas lips let go. But it was not allowed. G.o.dou opened his
mouth even wider and completely sealed the Hime-Mikos lips.
The sounds of their panting mixed together within their mouths, while
saliva also mingled as one.
"Mmm... Your Majesty is so bad. Ena cant breath..."
Ena tearfully whispered.
Nevertheless, Ena did not try to escape from G.o.dous 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 Enas mouth, searching for her tongue. Found it.
Putting forth all his strength, he used his tongue to subdue Enas 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, dont... do... do that any more."
She was already pleading.
This rare display of Enas willfulness. It meant things had to be kicked up a
notch.
G.o.dou kissed pa.s.sionately as he held the premier Hime-Mikos 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.dous heart felt like it was
galloping/rushing/speeding away.
G.o.dou possessed the sword that was Verethragnas 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.dous 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 Campiones 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. Lets 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.dous 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 hearts final destination?"
G.o.dou recalled his thoughts as he listened to Enas 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... Lets 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 Enas 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 Grails 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 swords 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.dous 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 Grails 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 Grails function? After
severing it, will he obtain the desired result? But no matter what, he had to
try —
"Then, lets 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.dous 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 Enas incoming tongue,
sucking on it pa.s.sionately.
"Ah!? 1-1 still havent gotten used to this... Stop being such a bully..."
But Ena did not flee. So there was no cause for concern.
Frolicking with Enas tongue to his hearts content, G.o.dou then whispered
in Enas ear.
"This way... Come this way a bit. Its very hard to act in concert otherwise."
"Ah... Mmm, mmm. Got it, but dont bully me too much..."
G.o.dou proceeded to bite her earlobe lightly and began to lick. Enas
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.
Enas 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 Enas 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 Enas 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 Majestys heart... I can hear it beating so loudly."
"Isnt it the same for you? Seems like youre busy panting away."
Held tightly together, they could feel the beating in each others chest.
Then they gazed into each others 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.dous excitement was
transmitted to Ena as Enas intoxication pa.s.sed onto G.o.dou.
"Your Majesty, did you know? Ena can sense Ama no Murak.u.mo sleeping
in Your Majestys body...?"
As Ena whispered during the brief respite between kisses, G.o.dou nodded.
The Hime-Miko of the Sword was the divine swords 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.dous right
arm. The feeling was transmitted.
"Ama no Murak.u.mo... Please conjure the image of being wielded by two
people at once. Enas hand, overlapping with His Majestys hand... Raised
up high..."
This time, she slurred her words as their lips came together while they
kissed.
The image depicted in Enas heart was transmitted. Then stored into the
sheathed Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. The Hime-Mikos pristine white
hand grasping the swords hilt. G.o.dou also imagined it.
Enas hand holding the divine sword, covered by his own hand and held
even tighter.
"Ah... Dont do that, Your Majesty... Its 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
swordsmanship, 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 Enas 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 shifted and
repositioned. Because they were not accustomed to this task, it was similar
to feeling their way through absolute darkness.
"Ooh... Like that... Okay... Ah, no good, too much force... It strayed again...
Mmm, mmm, right, over here is... Good, thats 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, Enas 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.
Lets 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 culprits 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 Tsurugis voice clearly.
Even though he had heard it during the battle against the Great Sage
Equaling Heaven, it was much clearer now.
"Its 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.
"Its 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.dous 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, youve 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.ds 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 wont respond to
Enas queries?"
No idea either. Dont 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 swords blade.
"Ah yes, youve 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 didnt 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.ds. 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 mans 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.
Refreshingly bright morning rays shone in from the window.
— It was a good nights 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 Athenas 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 Enas 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.dous 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 Enas 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 cant 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)