Despite insistent urging from the host, Godou finished his dinner without
drinking a single drop of alcohol.
Although Erica had drunk many glasses of wine, she did not show any
signs of drunkenness.
Meanwhile, the two adult men, Salvatore Doni and Zamparini, kept
opening vast numbers of bottles with hearty splendor. In this manner, the
banquet held in the restaurant came to an end.
"Since the person he's going to see is Lucretia-san, I guess it should be
okay to leave Doni unattended."
Godou muttered. Currently, he was in a private room in the hotel.
Zamparini had also booked rooms in this hotel where the restaurant was
located. Hence, Godou decided to gratefully accept the old man's kind
offer.
The next day's plans involved keeping Doni under supervision and heading
over to visit Lucretia's residence.
"Since he waited until now to find Lucretia-san for information, then I guess
he really doesn't know anything about the 'King of the End.' Looks like it's
okay even if I leave him alone."
Salvatore Doni had gone missing during daytime.
At the time, Godou and Erica had felt worried. Perhaps the Campione of
Swords had secretly obtained important information from ancient Gaul
about the "King of the End." Furthermore, using this knowledge, he was
very likely planning to reawaken the Devil King-slaying hero in the modern
era.
But standing next to Godou, Erica was frowning with an expression of
deep thought.
"It might be risky to believe it's okay to leave him alone. Consider this.
Aren't you people the race that frequently digs out the roots of conflict? I
believe that chances are not entirely zero for Sir Salvatore to suddenly
come across important information regarding the 'King of the End' purely
by accident..."
"Maybe. But I don't want to tie myself to that guy, that's all."
Objecting dryly, Godou then said:
"In any case, I'll keep Doni under watch for now. I also want to see
Lucretia-san again after such a long time."
"I phoned her just now but she seems quite reluctant. She said she doesn't
want you two to come."
"Why!?"
"Isn't it perfectly natural? It's no exaggeration to call it a disaster when
Campiones are trying to visit your home. Rather, it's something to be
avoided even if it requires pretending you're away from home."
Erica smiled with a chuckle, causing Godou to feel at a loss.
The people around him always touted Kusanagi Godou as "one of the
typical Campiones," a heaven-sent child of disaster. Yes, it could not be
helped that there are areas contributing to this image but come on, at least
don't lump me together with Doni—
That was how Godou wanted to retort but there were more important
things than raising objections right now.
"Hey Erica... Aren't you acting a bit too casual?"
"Oh my, why would you think that?"
Having just exited the bathroom, Erica was dressed in a bathrobe.
Indeed. After taking a shower in Godou's room for some reason, she had
dried her wet hair with a towel then started walking around in the room in
this unguarded state.
Since Erica was wearing nothing except for a white bathrobe, the lines of
her slender body were clear to see.
Even her cleavage was visible. Thus, Godou frantically averted his gaze.
Just hurry back to your own room already, isn't this putting me in a weird
state of mind? Godou agonized in his mind.
Unaware of his internal thoughts, Erica sat down on the bed, crossing her
legs.
She even went as far as to openly display her beautiful legs of pristine
white.
Feeling his heart pounding uncontrollably, Godou turned his gaze away
again.
However, he also noticed a certain detail. Erica was sitting on one of the
beds in the room whereas Godou was currently sitting on the other bed...
Indeed. This room contained two beds.
Was this actually a double room meant for two people to stay overnight...?
"...Erica. Isn't it time for you to go back to your own room—"
"Listen, Godou. You must have realized by now, haven't you? This is also
the room where I'll be staying."
"In other words, we'll be spending the night in the same room...?"
"That's really slow of you. Do note that Zamparini is the one who arranged
for this room. Didn't we sleep in the same room last time when we were
staying overnight at his mansion?"
"..."
"His original intention was to book a suite that even had Monaco royalty
making their stay in the past. But thinking that you'll surely refuse, Godou,
he changed it to this room."
"Well, that kind of suite would be a total misfit for my status as a high
school student..."
That being said, the current room was also plenty spacious but at least it
was still within range of a double room's standards.
As expected of Erica, she understood Godou's way of thinking quite well.
Ever since meeting her, not even a year had passed. Yet the two of them
had already survived numerous battles together, becoming comrades who
knew each other's temperament thoroughly. Moreover, they were special
partners as well.
Even so, if he had to spend a night with a girl in the same room—
Godou suddenly realized. Speaking of which, he had already done this sort
of thing many times in the past.
"You know, Godou."
Also, Erica had come up before him by the time he knew it.
Getting off the opposite bed, she gazed into Godou's face.
"You should have experienced spending nights with a number of girls apart
from me already, haven't you? Isn't it time for you to grow accustomed to
this sort of thing?"
"..."
"Any objections?"
"None... I guess."
"Very well. Now that's my Godou. His Majesty the Devil King whose bestial
desires cannot be satiated by me, Erica Blandelli, alone, but must
repeatedly extend his poisonous fangs towards other girls."
Erica sat down beside him. Now the two of them were sitting shoulder to
shoulder on the bed.
"Although you've already surprised me many times, Godou... This is still
the most surprising thing. Despite clearly being a blockhead who has no
idea how to get along with girls, you somehow end up causing Yuri, Lily
and Ena-san to fall into your hands."
Sighing once, Erica shrugged.
"I suppose this is a time when I could say something along the lines of 'You
always fail to understand my feelings—' But that would run contrary to my
style, Erica Blandelli's. It's already too late to say that sort of thing. It would
be undignified. Although I am definitely a slightly vainglorious woman,
perhaps this type of personality ends up the worse off during times like
these."
Naturally, Kusanagi Godou had no right to complain even if he were
stabbed by the girls faction, with Erica first and foremost. Apart from
listening respectfully, he had no other choice.
No wait, perhaps it would not be too much even if he knelt on the floor...?
While Godou could not help but enter deep thought, something kissed him
on the cheek. A light, teasing kiss from Erica.
"Let's end that subject here. However, in return, you must promise me this.
Please, even if you're just going through the motions, please do not ever
say that you wish to escape me—escape our feelings."
"Erica..."
"If you would promise me that, I could turn a blind eye to your deplorable
behavior. How about that?"
Godou did not answer the girl who had expressed her feelings in such a
calm and resigned manner.
Instead, he drew his face close and sealed Erica's lips with his own. Erica
accepted him without resisting. Although the two of them had engaged in
passionate kissing many times in the past, they did not covet each other's
lips or entangle their tongues together this time.
Simply pressing their lips together, they kissed quietly.
Nevertheless, the emotions involved were perhaps even more powerful
than usual. This was true whether for Godou or for Erica.
"May I stay here now...?"
"Yeah."
Seeing Erica ask uncharacteristically in a cute manner, Godou nodded
slightly stiffly.
She picked up a slender slab-shaped object, peeling off the wrapping
paper and the foil beneath.
"I have a present for you, Godou. Open your mouth."
"...Ah."
Godou obeyed without a fuss because he already knew her intentions.
Holding the slab-shaped object in her mouth, Erica bit through it with her
teeth. Roughly one third of the slab remained on her lips. Furthermore, out
of all everyone Godou knew, the most gorgeous and beautiful maiden was
drawing her face close once again—
Using a kiss, she delivered the slab-shaped object into Godou's mouth.
The sweetness of chocolate expanded in his mouth. Erica was feeding the
slab-shaped chocolate to Godou via mouth-to-mouth. In addition, her
action was not limited to simply feeding the sweet confectionery to him.
Along with the chocolate, Erica inserted her tongue inside as well.
Cautiously, she used her tongue to feel for the chocolate inside Godou's
mouth, even going as far as to lick Godou's tongue thoroughly together
with the slightly saccharine taste, savoring everything patiently.
In turn, Godou savored Erica's tongue together with the chocolate.
While kissing in this manner, the two of them began to eat chocolate
together.
Using the tips of their tongues, they began to push the chocolate around.
Moving from Godou's mouth into Erica's mouth then back to Godou's
mouth again. Stirred by their tongues and saliva, the chocolate gradually
melted, staining their lips.
Godou thoroughly savored the flavor while licking the sweetness in Erica's
mouth.
Likewise, Erica moved her tongue and lips, licking the sweetness in
Godou's mouth. It was only natural that their lips would get stained by
chocolate, but together with its taste, they licked each other clean with their
tongues.
In the end, it took the two of them wholly three minutes or so to finish the
piece of chocolate.
"Hey Godou.... How about... we eat a bit more...?"
Hearing Erica whispering softly before his eyes, Godou felt incomparably
excited inside.
"Fufufufu. Although I am aware that it is customary for Japanese girls to
present gifts of chocolate to boys this time of the year, I originally had no
intention of giving you any. This sort thing fails to interest me. But after
hearing that Hikari had already succeeded in giving you chocolate, I
changed my mind."
The young beauty, always radiant with intellect, was now showing a smile
full of bliss before his eyes.
This was proof that she had entrusted her heart to Godou and heightened
his desire to shower Erica with tender affection.
"Although Hikari is a cute junior, it would be a taint to the name of Erica
Blandelli if she always steals the first move. What are your thoughts,
Godou...? I think this should be enough for me to prevail over her."
This was most likely a piece of chocolate that she had simply bought in a
nearby shop.
Nevertheless, Godou experienced a mind-numbing feeling after savoring
that taste. Erica was probably feeling the same way. Gazing into each
other's eyes, they began to kiss again, this time without the chocolate.
"Erica...!"
"I could continue to feed you, Godou? Or perhaps, after the confectionery,
let us carry on by making love? So long as you wish, I shall—"
"Erica!"
Seeing as she had said this much already, there was no point in
suppressing himself any further.
Besides, the two of them were sitting on a bed to begin with. Driven with
passion, Godou pushed Erica down on her back. As a result, her bathrobe
fell open, revealing the valley between her breasts.
"Godou...!"
Pushed down, Erica cradled Godou's neck in her arms, hugging him
tightly.
Godou not only felt her body's warmth but also the heavy and elastic
sensations of her breasts, pressed tightly against his body, causing his
excitement to soar even further.
Immediately, Godou took her lips. In turn, Erica accepted Godou's
intensely passionate kiss.
As a result, locked in mutual embrace in this manner, the pair repeatedly
pressed their lips together in ecstatic fervor, sucking on each other's
mouth, caressing tongue against tongue lovingly again and again.
Exchanging light bites on the earlobes, they even sucked on each other's
neck.
In this manner, the two of them repeated such behavior nonstop for five or
six minutes—
Finally, Godou pushed his body up.
Separating from Erica's body, he interrupted the embrace. Rather than
recovering sanity, it would be better described as a feeling of unstoppable
momentum. Honestly speaking, he definitely felt inclined to embrace Erica
and continue.
"Is this where we stop, Godou?"
"Th-That kind of thing is too early for us..."
He had rejected Seishuuin Ena's request with the same reason in the past.
Kusanagi Godou was undoubtedly a lucky bastard. These girls were all so
adorable that they were irresistible. Be that as it may, if he were to accept
them at this stage, his fangs were going to be dulled—
This type of worry stemmed from his own willfulness and selfishness.
"Seriously. Clearly I am ready any time..."
Although Godou's behavior was quite impolite in a certain sense, Erica still
remained smiling.
It was the same smile of bliss that he had seen earlier. Noticing Godou's
puzzled gaze, she spoke in an intoxicated tone of voice:
"Naturally, Godou, I do wish you could carry through to the very end.
However, I shall forgive you tonight. Knowing you desire me greatly in turn
is enough to fill me with joy already."
"Erica..."
"Ah yes. As your punishment, I shall sleep with you tonight."
Erica declared, still bearing a smile of happiness on her face. Godou went
"Eh!?" in surprise. Seeing Godou in a panic, Erica chuckled and continued
to announce malevolently:
"It's because you won't accept my willful demands, that's why. When
clearly I hope with sincerity to deepen our relationship, Godou, to make my
body and soul yours."
"..."
"I won't be satisfied unless you agree to this level of compensation."
"I-If I sleep together with you, I might not be able to hold back!"
"When that happens, please dispense with your worrying, go ahead and
whisper your love in my ear. I shall entrust my body to you immediately.
Fufu, wouldn't it be wonderful if we could share the same dream tonight,
Godou!?"
This was a declaration Erica issued in unusually high spirits.
Nevertheless, Godou was ultimately unable to refuse this decree—utterly
shocked, he was unable to raise further objections.
Part 6
"I see. So you would like to investigate the mystery of the 'King of the End',
Sir Salvatore?"
Lucretia Zola murmured in her usual, aloof tone of voice.
Oliena was a town in Sardinia's interior, a small autonomous community
almost on the same scale as the town of Poppi that Godou and Erica had
visited the previous day.
The Witch of Sardinia had made her residence precisely in this town.
Godou, Erica and Doni were currently facing Lucretia while she was sitting
casually on the living room sofa.
As a side note, although they had spent the previous night at Cagliari, that
city was actually quite far from Oliena. Even traveling by car would take
substantial time. Consequently, Zamparini had rented a helicopter(!) to
send Godou, Erica and Doni here.
Moreover, saying he had things to do, the old man had returned to Sicily
early in the morning...
"Truly what a disaster for the world, to think that another Campione after
Prince Alec has appeared to track down the hero king's trail. Oh well, since
you wish to obtain all available information regarding the 'King of the End,'
Sir Salvatore, how could a mere witch as I possibly have the right to
refuse..."
"Oh no oh no, don't say that."
Doni waved his hands in response to Lucretia's sarcasm.
"I don't care about mysteries and stuff like that. I just want you to tell me
the fastest way to revive the 'King of the End.' Can you do that?"
" "..." "
"It's not a question of can or can't. Rather, I am not privy to the greatest
riddle. I am unable to respond to your demand, Sir Salvatore."
Despite calling Godou "young man," Lucretia used polite speech towards
Doni. Nevertheless, her lethargic gaze clearly displayed her regretful
sentiments towards the foolish king.
As a side note, the two who were listening to the conversation from the
side, Godou and Erica, remained silent throughout.
Rather than a wish to avoid getting involved blindly, it would be better to
say that they found oral intervention to be troublesome too.
"I see. Then if there's any summarized info on the 'King of the End' or
something like an introductory book, please deliver it to my butler."
"...Understood. It will be done."
"Oh my, thanks. You're such a great help."
"Not at all. Glad to be of assistance."
"Y-You great big idiot..."
Godou glared viciously at the frivolously smiling Doni.
"If it's something like this that could have been settled over the phone,
don't do such an outrageous disappearing act! Do you know how many
people are getting yanked around!?"
"Hey now, Godou. Asking someone for a favor over the phone is very poor
manners."
"Tsk. Only at times like these do you actually say something right..."
"And if I actually succeeded in finding out the revival method, I could set off
immediately. Free of that annoying Andrea!"
Winking, Doni looked like a mischievous little brat.
Godou wondered if it would be right to say that Doni was acting the same
as always, in terms of flawlessly concealing the hidden agenda behind his
foolish behavior. In any case, the purpose of visiting Lucretia's residence
was essentially fulfilled.
"Then I'll be on my way. If any new info comes up, I'm counting on you!"
Cheerfully leaving these words behind, Doni made his way towards the
living room's entrance.
Despite arriving merely twenty minutes ago, he was already taking his
leave. Whether in personality or behavior, this was very typical of the King
of Swords.
After nodding to thank Lucretia, Godou also followed Doni to leave.
Erica did the same. Ever since entering this house, she had not said a
single word.
This was probably out of deference to her position as a knight in front of
two Campiones. However, Erica did not intend to act reserved the whole
time. Before coming here, the Diavolo Rosso had already made
preparations.
Seeing Erica signal with her eyes, Godou nodded lightly in response.
After reaching the corridor, walking in the lead, Doni went to the front door.
Erica followed him. However, Godou alone turned in the opposite
direction—making his way to the depths of the residence.
He took leisurely steps as though heading to the washroom. But as soon
as Doni and Erica were outside, he doubled back to the living room.
Seeing Godou return, Lucretia smiled with delight.
"How nostalgic, young man."
"Huh?"
"Do you still remember? The first time you visited this home, you also left
with Miss Erica before my eyes before returning on your own. To have a
private conversation with me."
"...Now that you mention it, that really did happen."
Prompted by Lucretia, Godou remembered it too.
Last time, there was a need to talk in Erica Blandelli's absence. But this
time, he was meeting Lucretia face to face under Erica's arrangements.
Godou would never have expected this change in circumstances within
less than a year's worth of time.
Godou smiled wryly. This would have been totally unthinkable back when
he made his first visit to Italy.
Furthermore, his relationship with Erica even developed to the current
state—
Godou recalled the scene this morning. Stuck in a predicament where he
had no choice but to share beds with Erica, he was naturally quite troubled
and ended up spending a sleepless night as a result.
Even so, sleep still crept upon him unnoticed.
Also, when he woke up...
Godou saw Erica's sleeping face on the same bed.
The beautiful maiden, more gorgeous than anyone he knew, her dignified
face was as adorable as a sleeping angel's. For a moment, he watched in
mesmerization. But due to sensing Godou's movements, Erica also
awakened. While rubbing her sleepy eyes, she smiled with absolute
innocence and purity...
Erica's expression, completely different from her usual self, leaving
Godou's emotions unsettled ever since getting up in the morning.
"I never expected a day when I would re-encounter Miss Erica and you in
this manner. Although I do have the intention to live that long, never in my
wildest dreams would I have expected my old friend's grandson to become
a Campione."
Gazing at Godou, Lucretia's eyes carried a gentleness that she seldom
showed, similar to that of a grandmother and an older sister at the same
time.
"Well then, it's almost time to broach the main subject. I've already heard
over the phone from Miss Erica. You have apparently obtained a clue
regarding the 'King of the End', haven't you?"
"Yeah, I guess. A certain goddess's last words."
During New Year's earlier, Godou had battled against the goddess Circe in
the South Seas over Malaysian territory.
These were the words she left behind on her dying breath:
—"Ah yes, let me take these final moments to enact my vengeance on His
Highness Alexandre for betraying my love. Regarding the great hero whom
he seeks, you should search the Argo's genealogy if his true name is what
you desire. I reveal this secret only to you alone, Kusanagi-sama!"
While saying that, her face displayed a smile more adorable than any
beautiful maiden's.
Despite clearly knowing the answer to the mystery Alexandre Gascoigne
sought, she remained silent during the time spent with him.
Furthermore, Godou was finally able to pass this message along to
Lucretia.
Transmitted to the woman who had devoted her life at one point towards
researching the "King of the End."
"...The Argo huh. The name of the ship built by the hero Jason in order to
obtain the Colchis kingdom's secret treasure—the Golden Fleece—the
Argo is precisely that vessel's name. Dozens of heroes boarded this ship,
surmounting countless hardships to make their way towards Colchis..."
Murmuring, Lucretia recounted a story from Greek mythology.
"However, what the goddess said was 'the Argo's genealogy.' In that case,
should the Argo itself be considered... Hmm?"
"What's wrong?"
Seeing Lucretia suddenly fall silent, Godou inquired.
But the Witch of Sardinia did not answer. Her mouth gaped open for a
minute or two. With glazed eyes, she remained silent for a while before
speaking again in unhurried murmurs:
"Long long ago, at a certain place—"
These whispers were said in Japanese. Just now, the two of them had
been conversing in Italian, but Lucretia suddenly spoke in Japanese.
Godou jumped in surprise. Could it be that she had received an oracle via
spirit vision?
Although not reaching Mariya Yuri's level of attainment, Lucretia was also
a spirit vision user.
"..."
Godou stared intently at the witch's beautiful face, waiting for her.
However, Lucretia suddenly resumed her usual expression of lethargy,
exhaling.
"Unfortunately, that's all. But this is quite a first. Obtaining a spirit vision
regarding the 'King of the End'..."
Speaking of which, could the word 'Argo' be the crucial key?
Also, there were Lucretia's quiet whispers just now. Somewhere long long
ago. A long time ago. What meaning did these words hide within them?
Difficult to deduce. While Godou was troubling over these thoughts,
Lucretia said to him:
"Young man, although right now, this is merely a subconscious feeling...
When the time comes for a showdown against the 'King of the End,'
perhaps you may possess an element of advantage."
"What do you mean by that?"
"The sword's spell words, controlled by Verethragna's final
incarnation—the weapon of the [Warrior]."
This was probably an oracle via spirit vision as well. Lucretia spoke
solemnly.
"The king manifesting at era's end is a deity who hides his name
insistently. If the origin of his true name could be elucidated, then turning
that knowledge into a blade... The sword's spell words might possibly bring
out far greater power than ever before."
"My... Verethragna's sword?"
"For those who hide their names, the most powerful blow is only possible
to deliver if their true name is spoken. But of course, the battle cannot be
won simply through this alone."
After that, Godou took his leave from Lucretia's residence.
He rejoined his two companions outside. However, the helicopter that had
transported them here had already returned to the Cagliari area.
"We need to arrange for transportation to get back. I've contacted fellow
members of the [Copper Black Cross] and asked them to drive over. Also,
I'm going to buy some food and drink."
As soon as Godou met up with her, Erica explained while holding a
cellphone in one hand.
Lucretia's residence was located at the very edge of town. There were no
shops or other residences nearby. Erica started walking towards a
relatively busier part of the tiny Oliena.
Before leaving, she signaled with her eyes to Godou, probably asking him
to keep an eye on Doni.
Thus, Godou was now alone with Doni, just the two of them.
Sardinia's blue sky stretched endlessly overhead. The weather was sunny
today.
Although the winter wind was quite chilly, thanks to the sunlight, it was
within toleration. More importantly, there was no snow in the vicinity.
Lucretia's residence was built next to a mixed forest.
But apart from this patch of mixed forest, the surroundings consisted of
wide open plains.
If it were spring, this area would probably be covered with blooming flowers
of various colors. Seeing Doni strolling on this plain at an unsteady pace,
Godou had no choice but to follow.
"But investigations are really such difficult things."
"I'm sure Gascoigne will probably be furious if he heard the word
investigation coming from your mouth."
Doni's nonsense was met with Godou's cold reception.
It was only a hunch, but Godou felt that the capable Alexandre Gascoigne
probably would hate Salvatore Doni and his foolish airs. Indeed, just like
how Kusanagi Godou kept calling this man an idiot and felt very
incompatible with that eccentric nobleman as well.
However—enduring this feeling of wanting to click his tongue, Godou
secretly felt well-matched.
(The things this guy does, ended up not being completely futile or
useless...)
Today, Godou had paid Lucretia a visit due to getting dragged out here on
account of Doni.
As a result, even though it relied on Doni's beginner's luck, nevertheless,
this was precisely what led Godou to pass the goddess Circe's hint onto
the Witch of Sardinia, thereby obtaining that spirit vision—
It was possible that Lucretia might have obtained the same oracle even
through communications via phone or mail.
But it was also possible she might not.
In that case, Doni's seemingly foolish actions succeeded in drawing out a
hint that brought them closer to the truth of the "King of the End" mystery.
In a certain sense, such beginner's luck was quite fitting for one of the
Campiones, the illegitimate children of Epimetheus.
"Oh my, could it be that you've got something to tell me, Godou?"
"No way in hell. Stop looking for weird excuses."
"Oh right oh right, since Erica Blandelli isn't here, why don't we run away?
Since we came all the way to Sardinia, it'd be too boring if nothing's
accomplished. Let's go find gods worthy as our opponents, or start a
journey of investigation—"
"After all that trouble to get back to this side, don't go causing commotions
the same way as what you did in Gaul!"
"No no, you've got things backwards. I simply brought my modern ways
over to the past. Since it's you, I'm sure you can understand, right?"
"What does that have to do with anything!?"
"Then to commemorate our return to the present, let's duel decisively a
number of times."
"Like hell anyone wants to duel! I've already had enough showdowns
between you and me. For the rest of my life, I'm fine with exiting the stage
with my victory!"
"Are you saying you don't want a fight with Salvatore Doni in tip-top shape?
During the duel in Gaul, I was quite exhausted after getting possessed by
Artio."
"Shut up. Adjusting your physical condition during battle is also a part of
competency!"
While the two were engaged in a dialogue lacking in the solemnity of Devil
Kings...
They suddenly stopped talking at the same time. A presence—Both of
them noticed a presence that only Campiones could sense, being
godslayers.
Then Doni smiled lightly.
"It must be my lucky day? Looks like coming all the way here was worth it."
"I really feel a bit jealous that you can feel lucky about this kind of
situation."
After grumbling, Godou felt the blowing of wind.
The cold and freezing wind of winter, blowing from a certain direction. Even
when this gust of cold wind swirled before the two Devil Kings to form a
cyclone, then taking on human form, they were not surprised.
Because the two of them had already entered a state of combat readiness,
in both body and mind, having sensed a Heretic God's presence.
Nevertheless, Godou was deeply astonished when he saw the wind god's
appearance. Even Doni whistled briefly in surprise.
Tall in stature. Wrapped all over in white strips of cloth. Clad in armor.
In addition, the red mask obscuring the face—Only the eye portions were
pitch black.
"The wind god we met in Gaul!?"
"Ehe. Looks like it's time for a greeting of 'Haven't seen you for fifteen
hundred years!' or something like that."
For Godou and Doni, the battle against this wind god only felt like it took
place two months earlier.
However, since the masked war god had continued to exist from
fifth-century Gaul all the way to now, this could definitely be described as a
reunion after one and a half millennia.
Godou was rendered speechless by the excessively surprising encounter.
However, there were even more astonishing things waiting for him. A
young girl appeared deftly from behind the wind god. She looked about
twelve or thirteen in age.
Her beautiful silver looked as though infused with droplets of moonlight.
Those eyes were more pitch-black than darkness, shining with luster akin
to that of a pure-black gemstone.
She was dressed in a simple white robe of Greek style. The staff held in
her slender right hand exhibited the form of a "double-headed snake."
However, what caught Godou's eye more than anything else was—
"...It's Athena!?"
Her beautiful face. It was completely identical to that of the goddess who
had passed away in Japan several months earlier.
"Nay. One is not Athena."
The silver-haired beauty murmured haughtily. Even her tone of voice was
indistinguishable from that of the goddess.
"'Tis meet for thee to address one as Pallas Athena, mine enemy of ill
fate."
Part 7
"'Twas said that the Witch Queen formerly existing in these lands was
called Guinevere. One hath succeeded her legacy to become the present
generation Witch Queen. Oneself and ye are now acquainted henceforth."
"So in short, a Divine Ancestor huh..."
Gazing unerringly at the greatly surprised Godou, Pallas Athena continued:
"Exhausting the arts of magic in search of godslayers nearby... A rather
surprising result. One did not expect to encounter mine enemy of ill fate
this soon."
"Ill fate?"
Divine Ancestors were not supposed to retain memories from their
previous lives—as goddesses.
Precisely because of that, Guinevere repeatedly failed in her search for the
"King of the End." However, it was unbelievable that this Divine Ancestor,
who looked identical to Athena, actually remembered Kusanagi Godou...?
Feeling intrigued, Godou asked:
"Your cause of death was from the Divine Sword of Salvation sucking your
life away, right? If that's clearly the case, why do you serve the 'King of the
End'? Shouldn't you bear a resentful grudge against the 'King of the
End'!?"
"Verily indeed... Nevertheless, such is the existence known as the Divine
Ancestor."
Even when faced with Godou's accusatory questioning, Athena still smiled
haughtily at him.
"Dost thou know? Those known as Divine Ancestors all came about as the
end state of mother earth goddesses whose lives were taken by the sword
of salvation... Having lost their lives to the divine sword, goddesses of the
earth then reincarnate into Divine Ancestors, worshiping as their lord the
king who manifests at era's end. But certainly, 'tis true."
Pallas Athena's lips were twisted as though in self-mockery.
Godou jumped in surprise. The pride residing in her smile had shifted
slightly towards valor—That was the impression he felt.
"'Tis unknown whether the word 'grudge' can be admitted... But no matter,
this shall be put aside for now. More important is thee, godslayer of the
east."
There were currently two Campiones present.
However, Pallas Athena ignored the frivolous Italian young man, only
staring intently at Kusanagi Godou alone. The fighting spirit, nobility and
pride residing in her eyes were all identical to that of the goddess Athena—
Godou quietly looked back at the young girl in turn.
Probably trying not to be left out, standing by Godou's side, Doni opened
his mouth—
However, the masked war god took an extremely rapid step towards Doni
in this instant. It was almost akin to a declaration of "One shall be thy
opponent!"
Doni smiled happily as he looked at the war god while keeping his silent
gaze on his opponent.
Ignoring the minor disturbance, Pallas Athena smiled mysteriously.
"When reincarnating upon the earth, Divine Ancestors shall lose the
memories from their past lives... as a deities. One is no exception. Be that
as it may, this violent passion burns within the very depths of one's soul."
"Passion?"
"Forsooth. A mortal enemy existeth whom one must defeat, mayhap. As
much as awakening the weary hero is one's mission, here existeth ill fate
wherein even this mission paleth in comparison."
Placing her fist upon her slim chest, Pallas Athena murmured thus.
"Namely, one's destiny is to defeat thee."
"...No, you've got it wrong."
Her lips twisted into a savage grin as Godou spoke quietly.
He had understood through the exchange just now. Perhaps Athena was
undoubtedly revived as a subordinate under the "King of the End."
Nevertheless, even after becoming a Divine Ancestor, that goddess's core
nature and soul most likely remained unchanged.
"It's the opposite. I'm the one who's going to defeat you. That's the
promise. I owe that goddess a great favor, so I must repay her properly!"
"Oho."
Pallas Athena smiled savagely again as she narrowed her eyes.
"'Tis clear now. Thou hast lost against one in the past."
"True, that's not a wrong way of putting it. There are all sorts of
circumstances between us."
"Understood. That is to say, bonds of ill fate hath formed between thee and
oneself, transcending life and death. 'Tis meet to interpret so, mayhap?
—In that case, one shall inquire of you, godslayer. Pray tell, what thine
appellation mayeth be?"
"Remember this well. I am Kusanagi Godou."
Godou answered the Divine Ancestor who bore the proud face of the war
goddess.
Pallas Athena raised her voice and shouted, as though savoring his name:
"Very well! In that case, listen well, Kusanagi Godou, as well as the other
godslayer present hither. As one connected to the Devil King-slaying hero,
Divine Ancestor Pallas Athena hereby issueth a declaration of war to the
two of ye!"
This declaration of war came from the lips of the valorous queen.
"Well then. Pray tell, will ye accept this side's challenge!?"
"Since you've made things so clear, it's impossible to refuse."
Even faster than Godou, this time it was Salvatore Doni who spoke.
A happy grin hung on his face. However, he opened the cylindrical case
that had been slung on his shoulder all this time, taking out the longsword
hidden within. This was preparation for battle.
"I never thought that right when I start investigating the 'King of the End,' I'd
run into his subordinates. Let me accept this challenge gratefully. Show me
your power!"
Saying that, the blond Campione chopped at the wind god before him.
A diagonal slash aiming to cut the enemy from shoulder to hip.
Furthermore, Doni's right hand was shining with silver radiance. Using the
authority of the magic sword, he intended to slice everything into two.
In response, the god known as the Wind King suddenly manifested a great
blade in his right hand.
Using this blade, the masked war god redirected Doni's slash. A wise
move, considering that an attempt to block would likely result in his body
getting sliced through together with the great blade. This also made one
fact clear.
The "Wind King" still remembered Salvatore Doni's magic sword.
"How amazing. I can't believe you still remember an opponent you fought a
thousand five hundred years ago. As expected of a god."
Feeling impressed for a weird reason, Doni lowered his right arm.
The tip of his blade pointed at the ground. Of course, rather than
abandoning the fight, he was entering his stance for the sword of mental
nothingness. Using this undisciplined standing posture, Doni unleashed an
upwards slash!
Confronted with the magic sword, slicing diagonally from below, the "Wind
King" moved the great blade in his hand—throwing it away.
He abandoned his weapon quite readily.
"!?"
The one who felt surprised was Godou, not Doni.
Responding without thought towards whatever the enemy did, no matter
what, he swung his sword completely naturally.
This was precisely the true value possessed by the sword of mental
nothingness.
Consequently, Doni continued to show a cheerful expression on his face
while swinging the magic sword, intending to cut the "Wind King" from the
left flank up to the chest, severing the right shoulder completely.
But at the very last moment, the "Wind King" blocked Doni's magic sword
with his left arm.
Clang! The sound of steel striking steel. Indeed, hidden behind the mask
and the strips of cloth wrapping the entire body, he or possibly she was a
hybrid of a wind god and a sword god, thus possessing a steel-like body.
The "Wind King" stopped Doni's magic sword using his left forearm.
But the price paid was a slice penetrating the left arm, two thirds of the way
deep.
Godou had witnessed the same battle situation in ancient Gaul one and a
half millennia earlier. But this time, the "Wind King" instantly used his right
hand to chop at Doni's magic sword.
Crash! A sound akin to that of shattering glass.
It was the sound of Doni's longsword shattering, falling on the ground in
the form of countless metal fragments.
If the enemy was using a body possessing the hardness of steel, even
ordinary punches and kicks could serve as substitutes for sure-kill moves
from a sacred sword. In a certain sense, this manner of counterattacking
greatly befitted the war gods of steel, the embodiments of swords and
blades.
"You're a lot different from before!"
Discarding the hilt remaining in his hand, Doni swiftly retreated backwards.
The swift and agile "Wind King" pursued but suddenly halted.
Seeing his opponent's reaction, Doni smiled happily. The King of Swords
was not only a master of swordsmanship but also martial arts techniques
across the board with the unarmed arts of juujutsu above all.
Pursuing to attack without a sword would lead to getting counterattacked.
Seeing through this point, the "Wind King" ignored Doni's lure.
The masked war god was most likely a martial artist rivaling Salvatore
Doni. This was evident from those movements.
Having both lost their weapons, the two opponents faced off, maintaining a
separation of several meters.
Doni was in an unguarded state with his back arched mildly, both arms
lowered.
However, this sword guru of a man was capable of transforming myriad
martial techniques into powerful assets. Hence, he was even more scary
when without a stance.
Hence, the "Wind King" clenched his right fist and turned his right hand
towards Doni.
This was a stance that seemed to use the fist like a sword. Was the god
trying to exhibit martial arts such as unarmed fighting or boxing—?
The instant just as the two martial artists were about to start an unarmed
battle...
"Time to desist, 'Wind King.' Naturally, thy splendorous valor is the trump
card capable of defeating everything... But at this time, there are other
heroes who ought to be introduced to the godslayers."
Orders issued by Pallas Athena. The "Wind King" immediately lowered his
fist.
In the next instant, the hybrid god of wind and steel transformed into a
whirlwind, his figure disappearing. Seeing him retreat so simply, Godou
nodded instead.
"I see now... If that guy is the only bodyguard, then there aren't enough
opponents for us."
Pallas Athena wasa Divine Ancestor and at the same time, also the Witch
Queen in possession of transcendental powers.
But she probably did not wield sufficient power capable of rivaling gods or
Campiones. Just as it was the case for the previous Witch Queen,
Guinevere.
Of course, it would be a different matter if the seal of dragons and snakes
were to be released, thereby recovering a mother earth goddess's divinity.
However, that was a trump card that could only be used in exchange for
one's life.
Logically, it was not something that could be used recklessly. That said, if
she really did possess Athena's soul, then under conditions when it was
necessary, she would surely take on a serpentine or draconic form without
hesitation...
In any case, now was not the time yet. Feeling certain of that, Godou said:
"Where are the guys you want us to meet?"
"Hahahaha! I'm already here!"
A cheerful and manly voice descended from the heavens.
The instant he heard this voice, Godou immediately broke into a run,
driven by an instinctive warning that "Staying here any longer will be very
dangerous!" To distance himself from Pallas Athena, he sprinted at full
speed.
Immediately, dozens of arrows descended where Godou had been
standing previously!
Taking a sideways glance at the great number of arrows embedded in the
ground, Godou had escaped disaster by the slimmest of margins.
Furthermore, the other Campione was also taking strange action at the
same time.
"Ohoh!?"
Suddenly startled, Doni swiftly jumped backwards.
He moved as though he were evading someone's attack. But there was no
one in front of Doni—no wait, the blond Campione was still continuing to
dodge left and right, repeatedly evading someone's attacks.
His evasive movements looked like he was fighting an unseen enemy and
dodging incoming attacks.
Still, Godou understood quite well that Salvatore Doni was a user of the
mind's eye, capable of seeing through divine speed. Instinctively, Godou
felt that Doni was probably using this skill right now.
Doni's attacker was a user of divine speed—impossible for ordinary people
to capture with their eyes!
In actual fact, a figure was currently jumping around Doni's vicinity,
wielding some kind of object, moving at super high speed.
Furthermore, judging from the silhouette of the object, it felt like some sort
of pole-shaped weapon.
"Use this!"
"Haha, thanks!"
Godou instantly called out to him. Smiling, Doni extended his right arm
towards Godou.
Godou clicked his tongue, quite displeased that Doni could understand
what he meant without the need for explanations, when clearly they were
not on intimate terms at all.
But right now, there was no leisure for grumbling. Instead, Godou
summoned:
"Ama no Murakumo! Fight alongside that guy for now!"
'Affirmative!'
Accepting orders, the divine sword residing in Kusanagi Godou's right arm,
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, suddenly manifested in Doni's right hand.
The gently curving blade measured three feet, three and a half inches.
Whether in blade design or construction, it greatly resembled a Japanese
sword. However, the blade itself was exuding an jet-black and mysterious
aura of calamity.
"Since I have this, there's nothing to be afraid of!"
With both hands, Doni adjusted and firmed his grip on the reinforcements
Godou had sent.
Next, he swung Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi horizontally. Immediately,
an acute "clang!" resounded, an impact between metal and metal.
The same, unnatural noise was also produced in his earlier showdown
against the "Wind King."
Ama no Murakumo had splendidly blocked the pole-shaped weapon
belonging to the figure moving at divine speed.
At the same time, the wielder of the metal staff also stopped moving at last,
finally allowing Godou to witness his appearance. However, Godou was no
less surprised than when Athena made her entrance.
"The Great Sage Equaling Heaven!?"
"Indeed. It's been a while, Kusanagi."
The metal pole Doni had blocked was the famous Ruyi Jingu Staff.
Jumping about like lightning with divine speed, this monkey king was
indeed the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, Sun Wukong. Over his yellow
battle outfit was leather-crafted gear consisting of gauntlets, greaves and a
breastplate.
Laughing merrily, this [Heretic God] was supposed to have perished on the
plains of Senjougahara in Okunikkou.
In addition, a winged white horse descended from the heavens,
accompanied by the sounds of massive wings flapping.
Pegasus of Greek legend, which Godou had also witnessed before at
Naples. Furthermore, Godou clearly remembered the rider sitting astride
the winged horse—
"Hohohoho. How embarrassing. For a formerly dead body to return so
shamelessly in this manner..."
Dressed in a white outfit, the winged horse's rider was holding a longbow.
He was the one who had fired upon Godou earlier. A handsome face that
gave no impression of cowardice despite its exquisite beauty and a head
of lustrous, blond, wavy hair. These were two characteristics both belong
to Perseus.
During summer last year at Naples, Godou had fought a deadly battle
against this ancient Roman hero.
Speaking of which, Godou seemed to recall someone mentioning
something about "Perseus slain"—
"Aha, I remember you're that guy, from that time!"
"Hoho. Quite some care I've received from you, godslayer of the magic
sword. Apart from Kusanagi Godou, I must properly repay you as well."
Doni stared wide-eyed for he had exited the stage at Naples a long time
ago.
Glancing sideways at him, Perseus ordered his steed to flap its wings in
descent, finally landing on the left side of Pallas Athena.
Hence, the Great Sage Equaling Heaven also jumped back from Doni and
landed on the Witch Queen's right.
"How now? Sharp are the swords left behind by the former Witch Queen,
are they not?"
Leading the two war gods who flanked her, Pallas Athena spoke.
A yellow medallion had appeared in her right hand at some point. Its color
mixture belonged to that of an alloy of iron and gold.
"As the supreme sword god, the 'King of the End' possesseth the authority
to turn his perished kin into his own weapons—substituting for bows and
arrows, substituting for swords."
" "..." "
To think that he possessed that kind of authority in addition to the Divine
Sword of Salvation.
Not only Godou but also Doni was staring speechlessly at the object in the
Witch Queen's hand. On the medallion of iron and gold, three
sword-shaped emblems were carved on its surface.
"This [Arrowhead's Discus] is precisely the vessel for storing the authorities
of summoned sword gods. Fufufu, this treasure, passed down in secret
between successive generations of Witch Queens, one shall now make
use of it."
Confronted with the happily smiling Pallas Athena, Godou gasped.
Speaking of which, he recalled someone telling him to "beware of the
king's arrowhead." Probably because of that, he had started feeling a
sense of foreboding as soon as he saw arrows shooting at him just now.
Godou felt as though a great threat was looming near, but there was no
helping it.
What exactly was it? Just as he was feeling doubtful, Godou noticed
something. By the time he noticed, the sky had filled with thunderclouds
and he could now see the bright flashes of lightning amidst them.
He understood now. Now that so many characters had gathered here,
surely that opponent must come too!
"Ama no Murakumo!"
While Godou called out, lightning also descended from the sky at the same
time.
The jet-black divine sword disappeared from Doni's hand, manifesting in
Godou's right hand instead. Instantly, Godou lifted the divine sword
towards the sky while invoking the [Bull] at the same time, Verethragna's
fifth incarnation.
This incarnation of unparalleled monstrous might was only usable when
facing opponents surpassing human strength.
Naturally, there was no problem this time.
Descending rapidly with lightning speed, the enemy was a flying knight
charging through the sky. The opponent's energy and penetrative power
easily satisfied the [Bull]'s conditions. Using the incarnation's monstrous
strength, Godou raised Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi over his head.
This was to block the lance thrust from the female knight descending from
the heavens.
"Yahhhhhhhhhhhhh!"
"What wondrous joy to encounter you again, Kusanagi Godou! The man of
this knight's destiny!"
Accompanied by lightning, the knight charging at the ground was a beauty
with a head of gorgeous hair the color of honey.
Her short, sleek, soft hair felt refreshing. One with her steed, descending
from the sky, she was clad in chain mail, armed with a barbed cavalry
lance.
This very lance was thrust with the momentum and intention of piercing
Godou's forehead with its tip.
Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was able to block the attack by relying on
the [Bull]'s monstrous strength. The instant the jet-black blade and the
lance tip collided, Godou swung the divine sword in a wide, horizontal arc.
As a result, the lance, horse and female knight were deflected with a loud
"Clang!"
Recovering balance in midair, she then landed behind Pallas Athena.
"Hmph. To think you were able to discern one's arrival. Truly sharp vision
indeed."
"Since things have gotten to this point already, I was thinking you'd surely
revive as well."
Saved for the moment at least, Godou panted as he replied.
Sitting astride the flying white horse, the female knight was Lancelot du
Lac, of course.
"Well then. How now? Mine enemy of ill fate, Kusanagi Godou. And the
other godslayer."
Now with even the Amazonian queen under her command as well, Pallas
Athena announced sonorously:
"Together with these war gods, the 'Wind King' also standeth by in one's
faction. For a declaration of war against the present generation of
godslayers, such combat potential would be considered quite sufficient,
yes?"
"Oh my. Definitely quite sufficient. So sufficient that I almost want to thank
you."
In a rare moment, Doni was smiling wryly.
Although he was always talking about seeking strong foes, nevertheless,
opponents of flawless caliber had now appeared in quick succession. This
was probably the reason why he was showing a wry smile.
Seeing this reaction, Pallas Athena smiled.
"In that case, 'tis meet. Very well, pass these words to ye kin—the other
godslayers. Anon, one shall head thither to the farthest ends of the east to
undertake the revival ritual for the 'King of the End.' Defeat one before the
ritual's end if there are any objections."
"What did you say!?"
In response to Godou's shock, the reincarnated Athena declared acutely:
"One hath been hesitating all this time. Whether one ought to vanquish
mine enemy of ill fate first or to rouse one's master the hero. Then one
hath decided. 'Twould be joyful if all shall be fulfilled."
"I can't believe you can be so carefree..."
Godou felt deeply surprised before realizing. From the start, Athena was a
wandering goddess who willfully acted as she pleased, a ship steering
according to the wind, a being who moved forward according to whim and
fancy.
Rather, it would be better to say that this was very much in Athena's style.
In actual fact, the fortitude displayed in Pallas Athena's smile was also
identical to that of the snake goddess.
"Adieu. See ye at the far ends of the east, godslayers!"
Pure white light enveloped Pallas Athena and the war gods.
This greatly resembled the brightness given off when Liliana used flight
magic. As expected, surrounded by light, the gods instantly rose up into
the air, flying towards the eastern sky.
Indeed. Towards the land where the "King of the End" still slumbered—the
direction where the islands of Japan lay.
Part 8
"...That's what happened. This is the full story of Kusanagi-san's trip to
Sardinia."
Amakasu reported the situation using his smartphone.
Receiving the report from Tokyo's Chiyoda ward was Sayanomiya Kaoru, a
member of the History Compilation Committee's core leadership.
"What a grand display. Gathering all the strong foes from the past, it's
almost like a movie version of a live-action superhero television series."
"Speaking of which, in the movies, it's the heroes who gather together."
"In that case, doesn't it fit perfectly? In order to vanquish the evil army of
great Devil Kings like Kusanagi-san, the heroes of justice and the former
goddess has teamed up."
"I see. That's quite true."
Despite the joking words, there was no laughter in Amakasu's voice at all.
More precisely, his tone of voice was mixed with sighs. Moreover, Kaoru's
voice coming from the telephone did not carry her usual cheerfulness.
"Anyway, the current plan is to meet up with Kusanagi-san and Erica-san
at the Pisa airport then return to Japan with everyone else. Although
originally, I was planning to enjoy a week's holiday."
"What a stylish thing to say when you're on a business trip funded by
public money. Nothing less expected of you, Amakasu-san."
"Not at all. Getting proper rest for the body and mind during a heavy
workload is a product of professional awareness."
Ending the heartwarming conversation with his direct superior, Amakasu
hung up.
He was currently in the ancient castle hotel's lobby.
Mariya Yuri, Hikari, Seishuuin Ena and Liliana were also present. Everyone
was ready to return home, travel carrying cases in hand.
"A serious situation has developed..."
Liliana was murmuring in worry.
Of course, the girls had learnt through Erica Blandelli the whole story about
tracking down Salvatore Doni. Likewise for the reappearance of old
enemies.
"Perseus, the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, Lancelot, Athena...
Furthermore, there is the wind god seen in Gaul and the 'King of the End'
as well. It really feels like the end of the world."
"How did this come about...?"
Hearing Liliana's laments, Hikari began to look depressed.
Meanwhile, Ena was gazing steadily at her fellow Hime-Miko. Ever since
arriving at this lobby, the Mariya family's eldest daughter had remained
silent with a blank expression.
As her childhood friend, the Hime-Miko of the Sword took her time before
asking:
"Yuri, could it be that you saw something?"
"...Perhaps, I suppose one could say that. However, I cannot fathom at all
what significance it might actually hold. That is why I am uncertain whether
I ought to speak or not—"
Lacking in confidence while thinking over this matter, Yuri whispered softly.
Ena responded by requesting in a relaxed tone of voice:
"But Yuri, you only received the spirit vision after hearing about His
Majesty's experiences, right? Whatever you saw, it's okay, just tell Ena
first!"
"Rather than seeing something, actually, it consists of nothing more than a
few ambiguous words surfacing in my mind."
"Words?"
"Yes. This is the content: 'An evil dragon in the sea. The dragon
summoned wind and clouds to blot the sky and sun. Lightning flashed to
illuminate the sea. The king shot an arrow, piercing the dragon's chest—'"
"...A tale of dragonslaying? What could it possibly mean?"
Hearing the passage recounted by her fellow Hime-Miko, Ena felt
perplexed.
Hikari and Liliana also listened to their conversation with great interest.
Furthermore, even Amakasu went "Hmm?" in curiosity, frowning his brow.
Rather than originating from Yuri, those words seemed vaguely
reminiscent from somewhere—
For some unknown reason, that was the impression garnered.