New Year's Day had passed. It was roughly 4pm on January 2.
Before Kusanagi Godou were the vast emerald-green South Seas.
Furthermore, currently beneath some trees in a white beach's shaded
corner, he was staring into the eyes of his one and only
companion—Mariya Yuri.
They were both dressed in swimwear. Apart from that, Godou was wearing
a shirt while Yuri had a windbreaker. From a bystander's point of view,
these two probably looked like a Japanese couple enjoying a swim at the
beach.
But that could not be further from the truth. After forging the "black blade"
and destroying the island of the demonic realm using a deadly gravitational
storm, only mere hours had passed.
After that, the two found themselves collapsed on this beach by the time
they regained their senses.
Other than physical exhaustion and severe depletion of magic, their bodies
showed no abnormal symptoms and one could consider them safe and
sound. (Godou also owed his current vigor to Yuri's casting of healing
magic back when performing the ritual.)
But it was true that they were currently on an unknown beach somewhere.
They had already frantically investigated their surroundings accordingly.
"Simply for the fact that this is Malaysian territory and inhabited, we are
already quite fortunate. But let alone an airport, this is a remote island
where ships only come once every three days..."
Godou muttered with deep feeling.
The only person around was a Caucasian male surfing in the distance.
This was not a usual tourist destination for enjoying a swim at the beach.
After all, this place was terrible in terms of transportation.
Locals had explained that only experienced surfers and scuba divers
considered this a good place to visit.
As a remote island somewhere in the South China Sea, the population was
definitely less than a thousand.
"Since this is Malaysia, at least the money exchanged beforehand can still
be used."
Yuri nodded. The two of them were still wearing the same clothes as when
they were swept away by the sea.
Could one consider this fortune amidst misfortune? The windbreaker Yuri
had put on at the island's beach was suitable for both hiking and protection
from wind. Furthermore, her purse was in her pocket.
Not only coins and paper tender but also US dollars and Japanese yen,
very precious in many aspects, were kept in there.
"But there isn't much in total, so we can't afford to waste any."
"If we are returning to Borneo, we must reserve enough money for that
trip."
A regular ship came by once every three days on schedule. The one from
this morning had already departed just earlier.
In other words, the next ship would arrive three days later. Godou and Yuri
had to think of a way to survive on their limited cash.
Things would be fine as soon as they contacted relevant parties of interest,
but neither of them had their cellphone. In other words, without a contact
list, they had no numbers to call.
"I must apologize. I cannot even remember my home telephone or
Kaoru-san's number..."
"I haven't memorized any useful contact info either. Don't worry. Oh well,
we'll just cross our bridges as they come."
Godou comforted Yuri in her depression.
He knew that being technologically incompetent, Yuri even went as far as
to avoid her home telephone. Hence it was only natural for her to be
unfamiliar with that string of numbers. Although Godou knew his own home
number, there was no way he would tell his mother about his current
situation.
"Erica and the rest must be trying to track down our location."
Godou's memories of swinging the black blade were quite hazy.
But he could still vaguely recall seeing the blue light of flight magic. Not
only Liliana, but Erica and Ena were together with her as well, so the trio
should be safe.
"But to think it had the power to blow away an entire island..."
"I'm sorry. As expected, with me in control instead of a goddess, simply
unsheathing the sword already exhausted all my strength... Looks like it's
quite hard to control..."
Recalling the catastrophe from several hours earlier, the two of them hung
their heads at the same time.
Furthermore, although Godou tried to attack the goddess back then, she
should have most likely escaped. Indeed, trying to use the black blade as a
weapon in the current situation seemed quite challenging.
"Well, in any case, I'll have to trouble you for now, Mariya. I'll be in your
care."
Without a single penny in his pocket, Godou naturally had to turn to Yuri.
It was still unknown how long the duo would have to live here. The one
holding the purse strings during this time would be Yuri. Of course, Godou
intended to split costs and pay her back afterwards.
But Yuri stiffened her expression and declared sternly:
"No such thing. Since this is an emergency situation, the money here
belongs to both of us. Please do not say 'I'll be in your care' or anything of
that sort."
"No, this is only right."
"Then I should be the one to say it instead. Godou-san, although I may be
unworthy, please let us get along well during this time."
This time, Yuri bowed her head and deliberately knelt down formally on the
sand in seiza posture.
The Hime-Miko's seriousness made Godou quite flustered. Then as she
looked up and their gazes met, they both burst out laughing.
The two of them found their polite behavior hilarious.
After that, Godou and Yuri went shopping in the grocery stores by the
coast.
Clothes such as t-shirts. Daily necessities. Sweetened buns and mineral
water for a belated lunch.
In a certain way, the current situation resembled the beginning phase of an
RPG.
Having bought their equipment, it was time to find a place to stay for the
night. There was only one choice in this regard.
This remote island was not a tourist destination. From what they heard, a
set of cottages by the sea was the only room and board facility. No better
hotel existed on the island.
Although it was a little problematic, the pair decided on the cottages as
their accommodations then went out for dinner.
Even choices in this area were quite few. A diner-style place was the only
eatery near the cottage. Without any hesitation, Godou and Yuri entered.
Yuri ordered ethnic style fried rice—nasi goreng.
As for Godou, his order appeared to be curry cooked with a white fish
resembling Spanish mackerel. Containing okra and eggplant, the flavor of
the fish stock came out particularly well.
Although it was not particularly delicious, one could count their blessings
for the fact that it was not terrible.
While tasting each other's food, the pair finished their dinner without
incident. However, a bit of a problem arose when Yuri took out her purse to
pay.
The staff lady spoke cheerfully in English as she summed up the bill.
"Visiting this kind of island specifically, what a weird married couple you
are!"
She must have concluded based on the way they ate together.
That said, Godou did agree that this island did not feel like the type
couples would normally visit as tourists.
With Godou dumbstruck by the question, Yuri bowed her head and
answered:
"N-No, we are not in that kind of relationship. We are simply, umm, just
classmates, wholesomely... Well, not exactly this kind of relationship
either... I mean..."
But she was answering in Japanese, all in a mess.
She was apparently flustered by the misunderstanding. After that, the pair
left the shop and returned to their temporary lodgings at the cottage. Along
the way back, Godou and Yuri remained silent.
This could not be helped. Due to the question raised just now, the problem
of their accommodations was highlighted once again.
The quaint little cottage was built on the seaside.
At least it was equipped with a bathroom. Considering how cheap the rate
was, the bathroom was excessively clean. Due to the fact that this was not
a tourist destination, users dirtying the bathroom did not happen frequently
perhaps?
Then there was the cottage's problem—
The fact that there were no separated rooms meant that Godou and Yuri
had to spend the night under the same roof.
Since multiple cottages were available, there existed the solution of renting
one each.
But when Godou considered the idea, Yuri rejected it as "Too wasteful."
Advice worthy of a virtuous wife. In the end, they decided to share the
same cottage.
This type of open cottage had excellent ventilation and was rich with
tropical flair.
However, illegal entry was quite easy if one had the intention. Godou
would not feel comfortable letting a girl live alone in a place like this.
Part 2
Back at the cottage, Godou and Yuri took turns showering in the bathroom.
Although they discovered the shower had no hot water, since this was a
remote island after all, this inconvenience was tolerable due to the tropical
heat.
Furthermore, Godou and Yuri had already spent two nights on an
uninhabited island.
While they were there, despite using hot moistened towels for body wiping
and swimming in the sea, they had no access to showers, let alone a bath.
Consequently, a shower no matter how restrictive still gave them full
satisfaction
The actual problem came after that.
A quiet night. Two people alone in a cottage on a liberal island. A dearth of
conversation. A delicate atmosphere.
"I-If only we could watch television."
"Q-Quite so."
Their conversation ended with just a single exchange. Then the two fell
silent.
Instead, Godou threw Yuri a glance. Feeling his gaze, Yuri bowed her
head, but Godou felt that she did so not because she was displeased
about being looked at.
Although Godou was unable to read Yuri's mind, for some strange reason,
he was quite certain of this.
Furthermore, delusions suddenly began to pop up in his mind—
Such as Godou reaching out to her and then Yuri taking his outstretched
hand matter-of-factly, then in this manner...
Godou suddenly jumped in surprise. What on earth was he thinking
about!?
Coming back to his senses, he shook his head vigorously. Yuri looked up
as a result of his actions.
"What is the matter, Godou-san? Why are you making such a horrible
expression?"
"N-Nothing.. It's nothing at all, really..."
Probably suspicious of his answer, Yuri leaned in close. Studying Godou's
expression from the side, her face was pressed quite near.
Godou felt his heart beginning to race. Yuri also suddenly jumped in
surprise, then lowered her gaze again.
Another silent interval took place.
However, their separation was even closer than before. Not only in terms
of their physical distance but also between their hearts, probably—
Godou and Yuri cared for each other beyond necessary levels. Indeed, this
probably could not be helped. After all, the two of them had engaged in
behavior that crossed the line many times already.
From Godou's perspective, Yuri's attire consisting of a t-shirt and shorts
was also quite problematic.
It felt quite fresh to see the classy young lady, whose personal wardrobe
was usually limited to skirts, dressed so casually. Inexplicably, Godou had
a feeling that staying in the same room as her might not turn out too well.
Lightly dressed, Yuri's excellent figure was in clear display. Her exposed
arms and legs offered a dazzling and unavoidable view of her skin...
This was not the first time for them to spend the night in the same space.
However, last time's situation was completely different. Godou felt his heart
thumping in his chest uncontrollably. There was no reason to have a guilty
conscience. Clearly he had no intention of doing anything indecent!
"L-Let's rest for the night! M-Mariya, you should be tired, right!?"
"Y-Yes. It is said that children who go to bed will develop better!"
The Hime-Miko's complete non sequitur revealed her agitated state. Of
course, Godou was nowhere near composed enough to point that out.
Godou quickly switched off the light and lay down on one side of the
two-person bed. Yuri was already lying on the other side of the bed. Then
immediately—
"Kyah!"
"What's wrong, Mariya!?"
Hearing Yuri's scream, Godou jumped up immediately.
"Th-There is something cold on the bed!?"
Godou switched on the light and together with Yuri examined her side of
the bed—
"Uh... It's a lizard."
"Well... When did it get there?"
A tiny lizard was crawling on the bed. Unfazed by human gazes, it
displayed no intention of fleeing. Was it simply slow in reaction or had it
grown accustomed to humans already?
Fortunately, it was not a leech or a poisonous scorpion—
As Godou felt relieved, Yuri smiled with a chuckle beside him after
discovering the intruder's identity. She had clearly recovered and even
used both hands to scoop up the lizard, personally taking it to the window
and releasing it outside.
"I wouldn't have thought you'd be the type to be unfazed by reptiles,
Mariya."
Godou was impressed by the composure in her series of motions and well
as the unladylike manner with which she caught and released the lizard.
On the other hand, his fearless childhood friend Tokunaga Asuka had a
phobia of insects, spiders, reptiles, amphibians and the like, always
running away screaming whenever she encountered them.
Meanwhile, Yuri, the person in question, was puzzled by why Godou would
feel impressed.
"Y-Yes. Because its size is so small, even my level of strength is enough to
carry it out."
An answer that missed the point. His curiosity piqued, Godou inquired as a
test.
"Mariya, do you have any creatures you have trouble dealing with? Those
whose very sight disgusts you, ones that you'll never want to touch, stuff
like that? Such as insects, spiders, frogs, moths etc."
"Nothing comes to mind immediately. Since Hime-Miko training requires
going to sacred mountains and shrines in other places, I had many
opportunities to come into contact with the local wildlife."
"Really?"
"Yes, because I was frequently together with Ena-san since childhood, this
type of contact happened quite often."
I see. Godou understood now.
The majority of places considered sanctuaries or sacred mountains would
of course be shrines protected by forests. Frequenting those kinds of
places with a child of nature like Ena would naturally produce this result.
"Ah, but there is the cockr... A certain black insect is the exception. That is
one thing I have no wish of seeing."
"Well, I'm quite sure of all the people on Earth, those who like them belong
to a very small minority."
Located on an island's shore, this place was not only hot but very humid
also. That type of creature could very well lurk within the cottage.
But Godou specifically avoided pointing it out. Instead, he felt gratified to
witness this surprising side to Yuri. Was this discovery possible only
because they had been together for so long?
Godou also noticed.
Due to the commotion just now, the awkward atmosphere between them
had been dispelled completely.
Yuri also seemed to have realized this. Looking into Godou's face, she
smiled shyly. The mood between the pair became natural as usual.
Godou sat down cross-legged on his side of the bed and Yuri also took a
seat on the other side. Even facing each other again, they no longer felt
embarrassed. With the light still on, they spontaneously began to chat
casually. Perhaps prompted by the old story brought up just now, their
conversation revolved around their childhood memories and middle school
experiences.
There were times when conversation ended.
A cottage without a television was naturally silent. But the two of them did
not mind.
During these occasions, the pair would silently listen to the waves lapping
against this tropical beach. The pleasant sensation was truly impossible to
describe.
The next day, Godou went out alone.
He wandered around places like the shore and the pier where a small
number of fishing vessels and boats were tied down and moored.
His intention was to directly ask the fishermen and ship owners staying at
the island if they could transport him and Yuri to Borneo. However, none of
the responses were favorable.
"Oh well, even if there was a boat willing to take us back, who knows if
they would be trustworthy or not..."
Godou muttered his grumbles.
It looked like there was no choice but to wait for the regular ship after all.
Godou decided to return to the cottage without a fuss. Along the way back,
he suddenly realized.
Residing in his right arm, Ama no Murakumo, which had been unusable
since yesterday, was now awakened.
Athena's entrusted secret technique relied on the divine sword as a
medium, thereby generating a gravitational storm. This drastic move
seemed to have heavily strained the sword, resulting in an unresponsive
state of slumber earlier.
"...You're fine now?"
Godou's inquiry only obtained an acknowledging "Mmmhmm" in response.
Then there was nothing. Too lazy to answer, it seemed.
Since the sword probably had not fully recovered from exhaustion, Godou
decided to overlook it. The fact that Yuri and him were able to drift to this
island safe and sound was surely thanks to Ama no Murakumo no
Tsurugi's protection.
Despite being an arrogant, condescending problem child with no interest in
anything apart from battle, the sword is unexpectedly adept at taking care
of others.
By the time Godou returned to the cottage, it was already close to noon.
He could smell a very fragrant aroma of chicken soup. Entering the cottage
where they lived, Godou found Yuri preparing lunch.
"Welcome back. How did it go with the boats?"
"No good. Looks like we really have to wait for the regular ship."
After Godou reported his findings, Yuri went "oh well" as she set down the
earthenware pot she was carrying onto the dining table.
Since this cottage was meant as long term accommodations for guests
such as backpackers or divers, it was equipped with a kitchen and cooking
utensils despite its small size.
In that case, cooking would be more economical than eating out.
While Godou was searching for a boat, Yuri was responsible for buying
ingredients and cooking. The timing of Godou's return was perfect, for it
seemed like lunch was ready immediately.
Yuri lifted the lid of the earthenware pot, releasing a very fragrant whiff of
chicken soup aroma. However, the pot was actually filled with white rice
instead. This is rice cooked using soup rather than plain water, Yuri
explained. Scattered on its surface were also diced ingredients such as
ham and mushrooms.
"I tried to imitate the cooking I saw inside the restaurant yesterday."
In any case, he decided to have a taste first. The taste of Chinese cuisine
was delicious beyond description.
Godou felt rather moved, for he never expected to taste Yuri's cooking
during this trip. Since they had been relying on instant food for the past few
days, her food felt especially delicious.
"I'm so glad for a proper meal like this."
Life on the uninhabited island in the demonic realm. The battle with the
goddess. Then there was the gravitational storm the two of them had
caused. Godou recalled scenes from the past few combat-filled days and
expressed his feelings earnestly.
"Fufu. If you like this kind of food, I can cook it for you every day."
"Really? That's wonderful. I'm so looking forward to it."
" "..." "
Although they had not intended to imply anything else, the pair suddenly
fell silent.
The exchange just now was essentially like a couple about to get married
or newlyweds... Both Godou and Yuri became aware of this sort of feeling,
which would be a bit inappropriate given their current delicate situation,
right?
However, they had already overcome many crises similar to the one the
day before. Godou averted his gaze slightly and Yuri nodded in return.
Silently, they reached consensus to disregard the previous dialogue, minds
connected as one.
Yuri quickly made a dry cough and amended her words.
"G-Godou-san. If you wish, I can cook anything for you no matter what."
"R-Really? That makes me so glad."
"Fufu. Please let me know if you have particular likes and dislikes. I will
bear them in mind. But since we have been spending time together every
day, it is unlikely I would make anything unsuited to your tastes."
"You don't need to worry about that. I think that so long as it's cooked by
you, Mariya, I'll be satisfied no matter what."
"If you say something like that, I would be tempted to cut corners, you
know?"
"Even if corners are cut, Mariya, it'll still taste good so long as it's cooked
by you, right? Instead of eating at a restaurant somewhere, even if it's a
half-hearted effort, I'm satisfied provided that it's your cooking, Mariya."
Godou's honest opinion brought a shy expression of happiness to Yuri's
face.
Then the two of them noticed once again.
The conversation sounded like a couple who had just started cohabitation.
After all, if two people were living together, they should take turns cooking
for fairness. Nevertheless, Yuri was matter-of-factly proposing she take up
the role and Godou accepted naturally.
" "..." "
Chatting over such matters as they finished lunch, they cleared up the
table.
After that, there was nothing in particular that needed to be done. Until the
regular ship arrived, they really had nothing to do but wait.
In the end, the pair went to yesterday's beach for a brief swim, took strolls
around the island and passed time in this leisurely directionless manner.
It was simply a casual tropical afternoon with time spent unproductively.
"If this kind of life continued, I think I'd start hating the daily grind of going
to school every morning..."
"I-I can understand. If I had remained in Japan, I would still be working my
miko duties at Nanao Shrine today. Most likely, I could not be doing
anything like this...?"
These kinds of conversations occupied their time.
In any case, it was currently the third day of the new year, an afternoon on
January 3.
The beautiful sunset glow had painted the ocean and the beach an orange
hue when they returned to the cottage. Then Yuri set about preparing
dinner.
Although Godou wanted to help, Yuri refused, saying "the kitchen is too
cramped." Consequently, he could do nothing but idly watch the classy
young lady at work from behind.
Despite the fact that his companion was toiling by herself, there was
surprisingly no feeling of resentment.
Perhaps because they had too much time to spend idling on the island? Or
did the reason lie in his companion's modest personality?
Godou was feeling glad that he had a chance to spend time together with
Yuri like this. Yuri was also humming happily as she prepared fried rice in
an experienced manner.
Despite being a simple dinner prepared casually from existing ingredients
on hand, it was quite delicious and completely satisfying.
"Yeah, this is quite good."
"Fufu. Godou-san, I keep getting the feeling you are quite happy."
"Really?"
"Yes, really."
A trivial conversation indeed. Time spent together, just the two of them. But
this was good enough. But just as it seemed as if this tropical night would
pass leisurely like this—
Godou and Yuri heard the noise.
Clang... Clang... Metallic friction could be heard coming from outside. Soon
after, a figure appeared at the cottage's entrance. The person approaching
while making strange metallic noises was wrapped in a heavy coat despite
the island's perpetual summer heat.
"Fufufu. You are here, god-slaying monarch."
The coat was deep blue in color and had a hood which obscured the
person's face. But everything became clear as soon as they heard the
voice. This was indeed the Fire Goddess whom they had fought yesterday
on the island of the demonic realm.
Part 3
The goddess' alter ego was barely humanoid.
But aside from that, the coat's sleeves were abnormally long, covering her
arms and legs completely. Without a single patch of skin exposed, this
manner of dress was rather jarring in the context of a tropical cottage.
Godou noticed that he did not experience the usual excitement arising
from facing a deity.
In other words, this coat-clad figure was not actually the goddess' true
body.
"Enough of this. I want to meet your true person."
"In that case, please accept my invitation this time, Kusanagi-sama."
Godou stepped in front of Yuri to protect her. The figure, apparently the
goddess' alter ego, proceeded to reply:
"Although you have used your authority to destroy my territory,
Kusanagi-sama... I still have another island that once served as my master
bedroom. Please allow me to take you there."
Another island huh? Godou frowned. Could this goddess really be that
obsessed with islands?
"Fufu. For a stay spanning decades long, I suppose a house needs to be
built there."
"Not needed at all. I will simply blow the entire island away like last time."
The black blade exhibited astounding destructive power.
But since Godou could not control it properly, its practicality as a weapon
was limited. In fact, he did not even succeed in injuring the Fire Goddess.
Nevertheless, it could still be used as a threat.
The goddess had already witnessed the level of power. Was it enough to
pressure her—?
However, the goddess' snickers shattered Godou's hopes.
"Indeed I could sense exceptionally terrifying power from that sword.
Nevertheless, it is a sword forged from a dragon's remains, controlled via a
woman's wisdom... I can tell that you do not possess the knowledge, my
dear."
Two glints of golden light shone from the depths of the figure's hood,
sinister as a pair of witch's eyes.
"Next time that sword appears, how about I inject my wisdom as the witch
who stands as the Fire Goddess? I think it will do just what I want it to."
Godou had not expected her to see through the crucial fact that this was a
"weapon wielded by a goddess."
He frowned deeply. Perhaps the Fire Goddess was bluffing, but were that
not the case, the situation would instantly plunge into a worst case
scenario.
"Come, let us not discuss such uninteresting matters. Very soon, we will
arrive at the island that serves as my mattress."
"What on earth are you talking about? I have no intention of accepting your
invitation—"
Just as Godou retorted with annoyance, he found someone tugging his
t-shirt from behind. This could be no one but Yuri. He also heard the
Hime-Miko's whispering voice behind him.
"...Godou-san, please look outside."
What? At her behest, Godou glanced out the window—And was shocked.
The view outside the window was an expansive ocean in the night. At the
same time, Godou noticed the ground shaking beneath him, like a ship's
hull getting rocked by the waves...
Godou and Yuri exchanged gazes and frantically ran over to the window.
—They were on the sea. The cottage where Godou and Yuri were living in
was now floating on the vast, pitch-black ocean like a boat!
Overhead, the sky was filled with twinkling stars. Were he to try searching,
Godou could probably locate the North Star which had guided sailors since
ancient times. But of course, Godou was not going to do that. He simply
glared angrily at the Fire Goddess—or rather, her alter ego.
"Since it is quite a challenge to invite you to come willingly, please excuse
me for this type of surprise method. Fufu, please relax and enjoy the boat
ride along the way to my island."
"H-How could I possibly enjoy this..."
Godou never would have expected a voyage in the South China Sea,
traveling in a cottage rather than a seafaring vessel.
This was far more serious than the time he crossed the Mediterranean
together with Athena. Godou clicked his tongue disapprovingly. The
goddess must have taken advantage of his diverted attention caused by
her appearance. Moving this cottage across the sea, magic was probably
used to make it substitute for a boat.
Finding himself completely caught by surprise, Godou concluded that the
goddess was still such a tough enemy to handle.
Turned into a boat, the cottage was now sailing in a certain direction. The
speed was unexpectedly fast and Godou could see that the lights on the
island were already tiny. Accepting it as a done deal, Godou sighed and
plopped himself down on a chair.
By this point, there was no choice but to follow along obediently.
Godou communicated to the worried-looking Yuri with his eyes, prompting
the Hime-Miko to immediately walk over to his side.
"I got it. Then I'll come to this island to pay you another visit. But don't you
even think of doing anything to this girl. Should you dare... I will use that
black sword once again."
"Fufufu. Like I already said, I will just—"
"You may have said so, but who knows if it's true or not."
The Fire Goddess had said something implying she would be able to use
the black blade very well.
But this magical technique was Heretic Athena's legacy for Kusanagi
Godou. Fire Goddess notwithstanding, could she really seize control
completely?
Yuri nodded from beside Godou. She seemed to have seen something that
reinforced his skepticism.
Precisely because of her, Godou was able to glare at the goddess with
confidence. Even if she took half the control privileges, he was still going to
fight to the very end with the remaining half.
"Wow, how scary. But no matter. It is only commonplace for a hero like you
to be waited on by maidservants. For something so trivial, I could still
consent, you know?"
"Don't use words like 'maidservant' or 'waited on.' This girl... Mariya is my
companion."
Despite occupying the same room, the goddess treated the Hime-Miko as
the god-slayer's possession.
Godou frowned in response to this typically god-like arrogance as he made
himself clear:
"She comes with me wherever I go. We will always be together. If you dare
lay a finger on her, I will absolutely tear you into a million pieces. Even if it
means pursuing you to the ends of the earth, I will make you pay."
Godou seldom voiced threats, but he was completely serious now. He was
clearly the one who had brought Yuri to this dangerous place and kept
causing her trouble. Although he would rather have his mouth torn open
than declare "I will protect you" or the like, conversely, Godou had no
trouble swearing revenge openly.
Were Yuri to fall to any misfortune, he would avenge her at the cost of his
own life.
Godou felt that this was a distinction of his own, affirmed once and for all.
In his mind, Godou was quite surprised to discover himself as a man
capable of saying such terrible things—
"Godou-san..."
Yuri gazed at Godou, her eyes clearly conveying how touched she felt.
She leaned her shoulder closer to him.
For a noble young lady like her, was she not supposed to be fine with
abandoning a recalcitrant like Kusanagi Godou?
Although this was about himself, Godou really believed that.
On the other hand, the goddess reacted strangely to his threats.
"In other words, Kusanagi-sama... This girl is your spouse?"
"S-Spouse!?"
"Based on your words just now, is there any description more apt than
that?"
Cold words delivered in monotone. The goddess' excessive princess-like
impression felt diminished.
However, Godou's reason for being surprised was not limited to that alone.
"Uh, no, like I said, we're companions. Always together... No matter where
I go... Huh?"
In that case, describing her as his spouse did fit after all?
In front of the shocked Godou, the body of the goddess' alter ego gave off
a screeching sound and raised its arm.
From the sleeve of the long coat, an arm suddenly reached out. A doll's
arm, made of gold. Its index finger pointed straight at Yuri.
"Lowly servant who hinders my search for love... It is only natural that you
shall be punished accordingly."
The goddess' fingertip was about to fire something nasty. Without even
confirming what it was, Godou instantly reacted.
"Ama no Murakumo!"
He summoned the partner that finally woke up this morning.
The jet-black divine sword instantly appeared from Godou's right arm and
flew towards the goddess' alter ego.
Before the golden fingertip could release anything, the divine sword
pierced the body clad in the long coat.
The alter ego collapsed on the floor with a crash. From the fallen open
coat, the doll wrapped inside was exposed, made of gold shaped into a
woman's form. This was the object that had moved like a living human to
converse with Godou in the goddess' place.
"Are you okay, Mariya!?"
"Yes. Thanks to Godou-san, I am completely... Kyah!"
Yuri screamed briefly because of a sudden impact felt from the floor.
Then the motion calmed down completely. Up until now, they had been
swaying in tune with the boat-like rocking motion as the cottage floated
amidst the waves of the South China Sea.
Looking outside, Godou was shocked. The cottage had somehow drifted
onto a beach.
'Welcome to the sanctuary that serves as my hall of dreams,
Kusanagi-sama.'
The night sky reverberated with the Fire Goddess' cold voice.
'Please make your way into the depths of this island. I will make
preparations of hospitality to welcome your arrival. However, as the price
for receiving my love, please hand over this girl—the one considered
Kusanagi-sama's spouse! In order to obtain new love, one must forsake
the old wife. This is what is known as etiquette between men and women!'
"What kind of utter nonsense is this goddess talking about..."
Godou was stunned by the absurd terms of exchange she proposed.
The midwinter incident that began at Cape Inubou was now reaching its
climax through unexpected developments.
Part 4
This time, Godou was truly located on an uninhabited island no one knew
about.
He had a feeling this was still somewhere in the South China Sea, except it
was unclear which country's marine territory this was. Was it still Malaysia,
or maybe somewhere like Indonesia or the Philippines?
Yuri used the spirit power of psychic sensing to explore the island.
According to her report, this place was not as large as the island of the
demonic realm. Compared to the city of Tokyo, this island was roughly the
area of Yoyogi Park at Shibuya.
In addition, the island lacked greenery and the sparsely growing shrubbery
made the rocks particularly conspicuous.
Furthermore, the island's center was filled with an intense divine aura.
"Even my attempts to explore further with tendrils of sensing were
deflected. The goddess is surely there..."
"Supposing this island has no water source, it's not a place we could stay
for long..."
Godou muttered in response to Yuri's report.
He looked up to find the South Seas' clear and unobscured night sky. Even
this type of small tropical island would be prone to sudden showers so they
could not afford to waste time. It was necessary to leave as soon as
possible.
However, the goddess who would surely interfere was nearby. Without a
deity on this island, Yuri probably could have done something using
psychic sensing and wizardry—
Godou simply pondered for a brief while to make his decision.
"Mariya, I will go settle things with the goddess."
"Eh? Immediately right now!?"
"Yeah. I think it needs to be done as quickly as possible. Letting it drag any
further won't be a good thing."
This was a place where the availability of freshwater was not guaranteed.
Hence, victory should be sought as quickly as possible before his stamina
waned.
Yuri responded with an expression full of worry for Kusanagi Godou.
"Godou-san, just as the goddess proposed, there is the option of handing
me over..."
"No. Do not mention that kind of nonsense again."
Godou sternly cut her off as if refusing to hear the rest of her words.
Yuri answered "Very well" with a delighted expression. Then her face
instantly showed tension and she said with a serious voice:
"In that case, please allow me to accompany you. If I venture forth with
you, Godou-san, I will surely be able to see the goddess' name and
origins."
"But so far, you haven't been unable to, right?"
After asking his question, Godou realized that the usually modest
Hime-Miko had declared firmly using the word "surely." Could it be
possible!
"Could it be possible, Mariya, you're planning on doing that!?"
"Yes. I intend to use the spell that allowed me to see the origins of the
Great Sage Equaling Heaven. Extracting knowledge of the gods from the
Netherworld, to see with these eyes of mine... If I use that spell, I will surely
be able to see the goddess' true name."
"Don't talk nonsense. Last time, you almost died because of that!"
"But you saved me, Godou-san."
Godou could not find any words to refute Yuri's calm response.
As the power of a hero and savior of the world, Verethragna's sixth
incarnation, the [Youth], was able to heal those whose lives were on the
verge of death for the sake of Kusanagi Godou and bestow protection
upon them. However, even if he could save her, Godou did not want Yuri
to take the risk. He continued to ponder how to dissuade her.
The Hime-Miko suddenly exhaled and her expression relaxed.
"I want to follow Godou-san to the end, to be together forever. However,
this implies a life never far away from danger."
A gentle smile naturally surfaced on Yuri's lips.
"Ena-san, Erica-san and Liliana-san... Everyone knows this very well. They
have all fought with their lives on the line for Godou-san's sake. I am the
only one who is so weak, always powerless in times like these. But I also
wish to make the most of my abilities in hopes of helping you obtain
victory, Godou-san. This sentiment is the same."
Faced with her heartfelt words, Godou hung his head.
Aware of the extent of his incompetence, he did not feel worthy enough to
deny her steadfast resolve.
"I want to become your power. Please allow me to do what I can for that
purpose."
Indeed. If it were not for himself, she should not have to say something like
this.
Godou sighed. After a brief moment of hesitation, he had no choice but to
answer in the following manner:
"I am truly sorry that you had to get involved with an idiot like me."
"Not at all. Ever since a long time ago, I have been fully aware that you are
a person who causes trouble for others, Godou-san."
Godou lamented how useless he was, unable to say anything apart from
apologizing.
Furthermore, Yuri was exceptionally adorable, the way she smiled
cheerfully as she offered herself to him.
At the very least, he must obtain "victory" for her and all the girls. Godou
lifted his head resolutely.
[1]"Mariya, if you can assist me, I will absolutely put that troublesome
goddess in her place. Will you lend me your strength?"
In actual fact, Godou had never used such a rude form of second person
reference as omae to address Yuri before.
Although Godou could casually use omae to address the fearless trio of
Erica, Liliana and Ena, telling himself "Oh well, it's fine to treat them as if
they were guys," Yuri was the one and only exception.
No matter what, she was the most gentle and feminine girl among all the
girls around him.
Yet he naturally addressed her in this manner at this time.
"Yes, naturally!"
Godou had no idea if she figured out what he was thinking, but Yuri
answered without hesitation. At the same time, she awkwardly added the
following as if she had something too embarrassed to bring up:
"Umm... But Godou-san, since this is a spell for prying into Netherworld
knowledge through one's own will... It is quite dangerous after all, so I
should not attempt it except as a very last resort. After seeing the goddess'
name, it would also be quite problematic if I were unable to pass on the
information to Godou-san immediately."
Godou nodded in agreement. It was a reasonable assessment of the
situation.
"Actually, I have another method I would like to try. It occurred to me
spontaneously during your earlier conversation with the goddess,
Godou-san..."
One should not underestimate the things that occurred "spontaneously" to
this exceptional user of spirit vision. Godou was well aware of this fact.
What kind of secret plan was it? Godou's sense of curiosity and
anticipation was piqued.
Taking Yuri with him, Godou walked across the beach for roughly twenty
minutes.
Finally, they reached the destination at the center of the island where even
Yuri's psychic sensing could not reach. Marble steps covered the ground
here.
Perhaps another structure once existed here apart from these steps.
But currently, nothing remained but these steps of stone. Furthermore,
there was a ferocious beast present. A lioness.
"Ara... What an unexpectedly early arrival."
"Because nothing will be accomplished even with more time."
Godou was not surprised to hear the goddess speak through the lioness'
jaws.
More importantly, his body was now filled with power and his heart
naturally became excited. Achieving such a state, Godou could tell that the
lioness was the [Heretic God].
This lioness was transformed from the goddess rather than something like
a manipulated puppet.
"The girl is here with you, I see. Come, Kusanagi-sama, please bestow this
maidservant to me."
Godou deliberately ignored what she said and replied:
"Hey. In the past, did you try to trap that Gascoigne guy, a peer of mine, on
this island?"
Godou asked bluntly in order to provoke a response from her.
It was about time to clear up the nature of that man's relationship with this
goddess.
"Fufu, of course. His Highness Alexandre is also a present-generation
warrior among the god-slayers. A man worthy of a goddess' love. I first met
him back when I was liberated."
"What do you mean by liberated?"
"Yes, His Highness was the one who woke me from my long slumber.
Together, we searched for the wandering hero."
Hero. A word one could not ignore.
That Gascoigne really did explore this region as expected... Or more
accurately, he was probably embroiled in some kind of nefarious affair
here. More than likely, it was during the time when he busied himself
nonstop because of Guinevere. Godou nodded.
"We created that island together and enjoyed a brief romance... Speaking
of His Highness, he left because he tired of life on the island. And he even
used his labyrinth authority as a lock to imprison me on there!"
"Ah, so it wasn't actually meant for disorienting intruders, huh."
Godou grumbled in response to the disclosure of this unexpectedly
ridiculous truth.
But considering this goddess' temperament and that guy's personality,
Godou could imagine more or less how things happened.
Her earlier mentions of "a divine artifact gifted as proof of love" or the like
were all lies. Godou was convinced that Alec had approached the goddess
with ulterior motives but fled halfway because he discovered she was more
troublesome than expected.
"It took me four days to see through the labyrinth's magical effects and
bypass them. During this time, that fleet-footed hero already went into
hiding. I pondered whether I should destroy this island that had become a
labyrinth, but it is the legacy of the man I once loved after all. Fufu, so that
was why I built my residence on the island."
Confronted with the goddess' surprising confession, even Godou himself
was overcome with a sense of amazement.
The goddess was unexpectedly adorable in certain ways and Godou
began to feel slightly sorry for her. She did not need to specifically
preserve something left behind by that man for that kind of reason.
However, this feeling vanished immediately.
"Ever since then, I stayed alone on that island for a number of years before
venturing out to seek a suitable new love... And finally, I have found you,
Kusanagi-sama."
Divine power overflowed from the lioness transformed from the goddess.
This critical moment had apparently arrived. Godou tensed his nerves.
"Very well, Kusanagi-sama. For the sake of the love between us, please
have the maidservant walk over to this side. Fufu, I shall transform her into
a pig or a goat and rear her where we live!"
"As if I'd let anyone do that!"
Yuri had been worriedly observing Godou's conversation with the goddess.
Hearing the goddess' outrageous words, Godou immediately reached out
and forcefully drew Yuri to his side, as if trying to use his body of a
Campione's to protect her and prevent harmful spells from being cast on
her.
"G-Godou-san!?"
Yuri was caught by surprise but Godou continued holding her in his arms
as he turned his sharp gaze towards the goddess.
His prior sympathy for her was genuine. However, this was the first time
someone provoked his temper to such a degree.
Yuri was trembling slightly. One could hardly blame her. For a [Heretic
God], who only recognized humans as existences akin to stones, the
extent of the goddess' obsession must have terrified her.
Nevertheless, Yuri lifted her head sternly at this time to stare in concert
with Godou at the goddess.
She also embraced Godou tightly and asserted thus:
"It should be very clear to you now! Just as you can see, he shall never
abandon me. H-He truly loves—he truly loves me as his wife!"
What!? An astounding declaration, completely beyond his expectation.
Godou could not help but falter for a second.
"E-Even if you are a goddess, even if you are also capable of enacting
miracles, you will never take Godou-san away from my side!"
Godou could not believe Yuri was embracing him tightly as she looked up
at him with moist eyes.
She was seeking something, making an appeal to him. Enslaved by her
gaze, Godou bent over slightly and brought his face closer to her.
In response, Yuri also shyly drew her face nearer to Godou's and even
kissed him on the cheek.
Compared to Erica's passionate skinship, this light peck was a rather stiff
display of loving affection.
But Godou felt as though his brain was about to boil, for he never expected
her to do something like that—
"Because, great goddess, you have no intention of revealing yourself to
him, and neither would you embrace him like this..."
Although Yuri spoke quite stiffly, these were actually words for provoking
the goddess.
The goddess watched with displeasure as the two embraced. The lioness'
eyes instantly narrowed. It looked as though Yuri's stinging words were
right on target.
Godou now understood what Yuri meant when she mentioned another
method she "would like to try."
When he asked her about it earlier, she had blushed and refused to
divulge her plan.
This really seemed like an acting performance and provocation that only
Erica could pull off. Yuri was working hard to realize the imagery she
received through spirit vision. Finding the Hime-Miko who was hugging him
tightly exceptionally adorable, Godou applied more strength in the arm he
was using to embrace her.
Yuri also buried her face into Godou's chest. He whispered in her ear:
"Mariya..."
"Sometimes I wish you would call me by my given name... Only Erica-san
and Liliana-san get first name treatment from you... I find it quite unfair.
Even Ena-san has been complaining more and more about this recently..."
Although her voice was very soft, Yuri was sulking in a rare instant despite
her gentle nature.
Erica and Liliana were foreigners. Calling them by those ridiculously
complicated surnames would be quite a hassle—
Refraining from true explanations like these, Godou whispered "Y-Yuri..."
in her ear and obtained a very quiet yet satisfied "yes..." from her in
response. Judging from the current mood, one could hardly call this an act
anymore.
Then Yuri looked up again and challenged the goddess again:
"W-Whispering sweet nothings to each other nonstop with him... A-Are you
capable of this? I can feel from my spiritual senses. Indeed, your powers
may be great and vast as a witch goddess... But as for your body,
surely—"
"Shut up."
Surprised, Godou and Yuri tensed up in their expressions.
The goddess' airs changed. Hours earlier at the cottage, her voice had
been cold and indifferent. Now, that was not all. Her current voice carried
much greater solemnity than before.
A queen's majesty. The airs of an inviolable princess. The authority of a
goddess—
She no longer displayed the frivolity of a girl addicted to love. Or perhaps
this was actually her true nature?
Yuri's provocations seemed to have pressed a switch somewhere within
the goddess.
"Such repeated insolence towards the goddess of dawn, oh how my rage
seethes within me... That said, this could be considered a courageous act
of a mortal girl. Fufu, as one who seeks and chases after love herself, even
I am inspired to grant my blessing to such reckless behavior undertaken for
the sake of love."
A calm voice.
Furthermore, the lioness' body proceeded to split apart into halves along
the line of the spine.
A dark shadow emerged from the crack. Conversely, the lioness' body
turned into sand and crumbled. Then the shadow took on a woman's
outline and several seconds passed.
As Godou and Yuri watched, the shadow materialized into solid form.
A beautiful girl, her figure as slender as a juniper.
One would estimate her age to be fifteen or sixteen by appearance. Her
lustrous silver hair was very pretty. With long lashes belonging to a girl of
one's dreams, rosy cheeks and adorable cherry lips, she was the
embodiment of maidenly beauty one could never forget on first sight.
If one were to pass her by on one's way, it would not be strange to dream
of her that night.
However—her arms and everything below the waist were made of brass.
Her arms, legs and lower torso were made of brass prostheses. The metal
was neither armor nor divine vestments. Godou's instincts told him she
was bearing wounds that would never heal.
He knew from a Campione's warrior instincts. The goddess before him was
half dead.
Carrying these wounds that would never heal as she continued to exist on
the earth, this half-alive, half-dead goddess—!
"The goddess of dawn... Heretic... Circe!"
Then as her breathing quickened, Yuri finally whispered the goddess' true
name.