Campione!

Chapter 7 - The Stirring of HeroesPart 1Who could have expected a time traveling journey that would leave themstranded for almost two months?After experiencing a great commotion in ancient Gaul, Kusanagi Godouand his companions finally returned to the modern era.The "corridor" leading to the past era was located in the Casentino area onthe east end of Italy's central region of Tuscany. This was a zone of lushvegetation, designated as a national park.The time tunnel's entrance was situated in a flourishing forest in a corner ofthis region.Upon returning to the modern era, the sun happened to be rising in theeastern sky. The forest was thickly covered with accumulated snow. Thesnow's pure whiteness was even brighter and more vivid than the trees'greenery.The sunlight of dawn illuminated this part of the world with a rosy shade ofcolor —After admiring this landscape of fantasy from afar, the group started tomake their way towards human settlement.The group consisted of Kusanagi Godou, Salvatore Doni, Madame Aisha,Erica Blandelli, Mariya Yuri, Liliana Kranjcar and Seishuuin Ena."The world on this side really is more convenient after all."After a brief break at the hotel, Godou was muttering to himself.Before going on the journey to the past, Doni had gathered the knights ofItaly at this ancient castle hotel.The interiors, fitted with heating, were quite warm whereas hot runningwater came readily from taps. Showering facilities as well. Not only wasthere coffee to drink, but also pizza to eat.The hotel had been converted from an ancient castle dating back to theMiddle Ages. In contrast to its antique appearance, the hotel was filled witha sense of comfort."Yeah, it feels like I've finally come home."After a refreshing shower, Doni was sitting in the hotel's bar, taking largeswigs of beer and ravenously wolfing down three slices of pizza.On the other hand, Godou was hoping to return to his home country asquickly as possible to have some Japanese food.But due to various reasons, he had decided to stay at this hotel for now."Sorry, Godou-san, for my sake, you have to deliberately...""That's not something you need to apologize for. Besides, there's plenty oftime since we're still in the middle of the post-exam break. Mariya, youshould get some proper rest."That was what Godou had said to Yuri who had suddenly fallen ill with afever after returning from the past.The fever's cause was probably not due to a flu but from the fatigueaccumulated during the long journey. Furthermore, Yuri's state of healthwas already unstable before setting off from Japan. She would feelexhausted and dizzy in crowded places — Those were the symptomspresented by her current physiological state. It would be best to take morecare.There were other reasons for Godou's return to be delayed."Fufufufu. Somehow, I find myself quite happy to be in the modern eratoo!"This woman, smiling innocently, was also part of the reason.Namely, Madame Aisha who was currently smiling radiantly, sitting on thesofa in the hotel lobby.Finally removing her ancient attire, she had changed into a navy-blueknitted ensemble with a long white skirt.Dressed in this manner, the Madame was flanked by a scowling womanand a young man with a cautious expression, both sitting beside her.The ponytailed female Paladino was Saint Raffaello and Doni's master.The other was Paolo Blandelli, Erica's paternal uncle."Good grief, how could you say that so casually? You've no idea how muchtrouble we had to go through.""Madame, while making your stay in the local area, please do not hesitateto inform me or my association, the [Copper Black Cross], should you haveany requests. I, Paolo Blandelli, intend to serve provisionally as your knightto fulfill your every bidding.""My! Erica-san's uncle is truly quite the gentleman!"The Madame was quite touched by Paolo's respectful offer.However, rather than a show of chivalry, this should be considered a ployto stay by a dangerous character's side for monitoring purposes.In fact, the same idea had occurred to Godou after sensing the Madame'sintention to take up accommodations at this hotel.(I should stay here for now to monitor her.)Et cetera. At least while the post-exam break lasted.Before setting off from Japan, Godou and the other students had sat thethird term's examinations at Jounan Academy where they were studying.After that, they had used the post-exam break to make the long trip fromJapan to Italy.Meanwhile, at a hidden position out of Madame Aisha's sight, severalpeople were having a secret conversation."Will the people in this hotel be fine? Is there not quite a substantial risk forthem to be charmed by Madame Aisha's authority?""Well, this place is run by the [Capital of Lilies] to begin with after all."While looking at the happily smiling Madame Aisha from a distance, Lilianaand Erica were whispering to each other.As a side note, the [Capital of Lilies] was the magic associationheadquartered in the ancient city of Florence in Tuscany."In fact, the majority of employees are equipped with knowledge of magic.I've also heard that they have already used magic to protect their brainsand minds beforehand as a precaution... Well, only to the extent that onecould feel slightly relieved.""Even Ena and you were also affected by Aisha-san's authority once."Resonating strongly with heartfelt emotion, Ena agreed with Erica'sopinion.In any case, this trip had turned into a great expedition lasting almost twomonths. Nevertheless, upon returning to the modern era, they discoveredthat the calendar had merely advanced to the second day.In the end, Godou and company had returned the next morning after thedeparting day."1 suppose I should say: as expected of a journey through time. Trulyabsurd to an excessive degree."Liliana's astonished murmurs were understandable.The current guests at this ancient castle hotel in Tuscany not only includedSaint Raffaello and Paolo but also Doni's butler, Andrea Rivera.When Godou's group first returned to the hotel, Rivera had been outhandling matters.But upon returning, he was reunited with his foolish master."Come, Salvatore Doni. I'm sure you've fully prepared yourself to be sunkinto the Mariana Trench together with a thirty-thousand-ton tanker.Perhaps now is the perfect opportunity to exile you from the surface worldforever. Let's have a good discussion regarding this issue."Dragging the neck of the whole commotion's principal culprit, Riveradragged the man into another room...In addition, these were not the only people present to welcome Godou andthe other's return."Onii-sama! As well as Onee-chan and everyone else, thank goodness thatyou've all returned safe and sound!""We flew here from Japan after hearing about the emergency situation.Looks like the problem has already been resolved while we were on ourway, that's really wonderful."During the afternoon after their return, two Japanese had arrived at thehotel.Yuri's younger sister, Hikari, and tlie History Compilation Committee'sspecial agent, Amakasu Touma. Upon hearing that "Japan's Campioneand his entourage are on a time traveling journey!?", Amakasu hadimmediately hurried to Italy. Furthermore, Hikari had also expressed herwish to come along."Although my original intention was to assist in Onii-sama's return, it endedup turning into a free trip to Italy."After explaining the situation, Hikari added mischievously.The Mariya family's second daughter was only twelve years old but wasalready a Hime-Miko in training. Presumably, that was precisely why herrequest to be sent on this mission was approved. Godou expressed histhanks from the bottom of his heart."It's the thought that counts. I'm sorry for making you come all the wayhere.""Oh right. Although this doesn't count as a congratulations gift, I do have apresent for you, Onii-sama. I'll give it to you later!"It was difficult to imagine someone so considerate and thoughtful was onlyjust a sixth grader. Hikari smiled cheerfully while she spoke.As a side note, the unexpected welcoming committee did not just includeJapanese people. An hour after Hikari and Amakasu arrived, an Americanwoman suddenly appeared in the hotel lobby."It's been a while, Kusanagi Godou.""Annie-san!"A missed friend, Annie Charlton.She was the collaborator of Los Angeles' Devil King, John Pluto Smith.The cool beauty was dressed for midwinter in a trenchcoat and gray pants,matched by her short, fiery-red hair.A dozen minutes or so later, Godou was sitting opposite Annie in thehotel's lounge.Two steaming cups of espresso were placed on the table between them."Apparently, you've been doing as you please in fifth-century Gaul.""If I had to describe it, I was tlie one restraining tine willful and recklessDoni and Aisha-san..."Godou raised mild objections against her sardonic remark.However, Annie Charlton scoffed and said coldly:"At 'Plutarch's Residence' in the Astral Plane... Smith heard from the oldman who lives there. Reportedly, a certain Kusanagi Godou was buildinghis harem in the land of ancient Gaul, enjoying a life of pleasuresurrounded by numerous beauties.""Th-They only gathered around me on their own without my consent,okay!"Godou's group had made the Roman colonial city of Colonia Aggripinatheir final base of operations.Out of excessive and unnecessary care, local bigshots had continually sentmany beauties over to Kusanagi Godou — the man wielding the mostinfluence and martial power in the region.Back then, Kusanagi Godou's status in Colonia Aggripina was akin to thatof a feudal lord.To think she would know about the journey to the past, she truly lived up toher name as Smith's collaborator. Moreover, Annie's purpose for cominghere was to retrieve the magic gun that had served as a trump card duringthe battle in Gaul.Indeed. John Pluto Smith had entrusted his weapon to Liliana during thatjourney.After returning the magic gun to her, Godou changed the subject."Oh right, what happened to history in that era after we returned? Did thatwhatever residence's old guy say anything else to Smith?""Nothing in particular that bears mentioning. Speaking of which, this isbasically it."Annie responded fluently to Godou's sudden questioning.True to the image of a "capable woman," the cool beauty was intelligentand highly competent."Didn't history remain unchanged, broadly speaking? This is all thanks tohistory's corrective force and your side's devoted efforts.""In that case, that Uldin guy also got killed by the 'King of the End'...Right?"Uldin was the ancient Campione whom Godou had met in ancient Gaul.Muttering Uldin's name, Godou began to ponder. Excessively strong,stubborn, a man who seemed unkillable. A warrior among warriors, abarbaric and crafty Devil King.Although impossible to imagine, did that man still lose to the "King of theEnd" ultimately?As though trying to dispel the heavy atmosphere, Godou brought his cup ofespresso to his lips. Annie did the same. At this moment, Godou realizedthat there ought to be other things to talk about."Oh right, Annie-san. Thank you very much."Although still seated, Godou bowed his head deeply."Sorry for troubling you to come all the way over to Italy from America toretrieve the gun. I should be the one paying a visit to Los Angeles instead.""Pay it no mind. I happen to be passing by anyway."Annie shrugged and accepted his apology generously."Due to my — our conflict against the [King of Flies] organization. Smith andI have not left Los Angeles for a long time already. Hence, I wanted to goon a sightseeing trip as a long-awaited break, arriving here with intentionsto tour Europe. Visiting this place did not require me to go out of my way.""Even so, you're still doing a big favor. I'm really thankful to you."The [King of Flies] sorcerer^^^ organization led by Asherah had alsoappeared before at Nikkou's Toushouguu.Godou had heard that they had been John Pluto Smith's mortal enemies inrecent years.Godou wondered if the care and concern expressed by the cool beautystemmed from her worried feelings or from her natural personality.In any case, Godou's gratitude towards her remained unclianged.Tlianking once again, Godou continued witli a smile:"Also, please pass this message to Smith: Thank you for your care. I willrepay the favor one day. I'll pay you a visit once I find the free time.'""After hearing such words, he will surely reply with the following."Asked to deliver a message, Annie responded by imitating Smith's tone ofvoice:'"Understood. In that case, you should prepare as rich a return gift as youcan. I won't accept any complaints about the interest being too high so Ihope you prepare yourself for that — ' Presumably, a reply along suchlines."Annie's facial expression remained stiff, serious to a fault as always.Nevertheless, she had changed her tone of voice to mimic the maskedgodslayer's speech of subtle pretension.This unexpected playfulness brought a smile to Godou's lips.Finally, Annie finished her espresso in one breath then quickly left thehotel."By the way, Aisha-san, can I ask you a few questions?""Sure, what would you like to ask, Doni-san?"After spending four hours in a friendly conversation with the loyal butlerthen escaping, the young Devil King was sitting side by side with theadorable female Devil King (age indeterminate) whose appearancesuggested teenage at most.The location was the bar in a corner of the hotel.Salvatore Doni and Madame Aisha were currently sitting at the bartogether."So, Aisha-san, since you spend long periods traveling everywhere, youshould be quite knowledgeable in a broad range of things, right?""Not at all. You are too kind. My level of knowledge is really nothingspecial... Fufufufu. So, what would you like to ask about, Doni-san?"Despite her modest attitude, Madame Aislia's expression sliowed tliat sinewas greatly pleased by his praise.She smiled back innocently at Doni who was taking a gulp of whiskey.Placed before her was a glass of fresh orange juice.Meanwhile, two knights were currently sitting at a table in a corner of thebar, staring at the two Devil Kings.Erica and Liliana. Without drawing attention, they were warily monitoringthe movements of these two super dangerous characters."Basically, the King of the End' we met earlier in ancient Gaul. Have youseen that god in other time periods? Or heard things about him?""No, there's nothing... Oh wait, however."Just as she was answering, the Madame revealed an expression of deepthought."During my travels in China during the Tang Dynasty, I once heard about a'hero manifesting in the latter days of decadence' who, in his quest topursue godslaying Rakshasha kings, headed to the farthest ends of theorient — the nation of Japan. Hearsay of that sort. Yes, I remember that itwas a great monk at Chang'an who accidentally leaked the rumor.""I see I see."Saying that, Doni nodded in acknowledgement of the Madame's reply.Perking up their ears to listen to this conversation. Erica and Lilianaexchanged looks to communicate.Salvatore Doni was a Devil King who would dance with a lighter in apowder keg with total nonchalance as long as it satisfied his desires.Furthermore, he had always been searching for great and formidable foes.To think a man like him was collecting information on the "King of theEnd"...Most likely, he was unable to forgot the power exhibited by the hero he hadwitnessed in ancient Gaul.Of course, this was undoubtedly an ominous sign. Even though the timetraveling incident had come to a conclusion, the dangerous emberssurrounding the various Devil Kings were already gradually set aflame.Part 2"Eh, what happened to Amakasu-san?"After seeing Annie off, Godou visited the IVIariya sisters' room.Inside the room were three people: Yuri who was lying in bed due to herfever, her little sister Hikari at the bedside taking care of her, as well asSeishuuin Ena sitting casually on a chair.However, there were no signs of Amakasu Touma. Godou had expectedhim to be present."Could he have gone outside to ski or something?"Godou brought up the first possibility that came to mind. Abundant snowhad fallen just earlier in the lush Casentino forest and the surroundingmountain range. Currently, the outside world was a realm of silver.In that case, skiing would seem like something attractive to try out as oneof many winter sports.Well, given Amakasu's laziness and indoor preference, Godou wasdoubtful that he would actually choose this type of sport.Nevertheless, the answer waiting for Godou was even more unexpectedthan skiing."Oh, Amakasu-san said he's visiting the hotel's beauty parlor."Ena's carefree answer surprised Godou."That guy went to the beauty parlor!?""Yes, Amakasu-san mentioned that he must get an oil massage no matterwhat."Leaning her back against a cushion, Yuri sat up and provided additionalexplanation. Godou was reassured to find her more energetic thanexpected.Furthermore, sitting by her elder sister's side, Hikari smiled."Saying that he needed to recover from the damage from sitting rigidly inthe plane and the fatigue from driving all the way here from the airport ofFlorence, he ran over to make an appointment.""Now that you mention it, 1 guess it's not tliat usual for a man to befrequenting that kind of place."Rather than beauty treatment, Amakasu's aim was for relaxation.Last time at Cape Inubou, Amakasu had also enjoyed all kinds ofmassages fully. Perhaps spending time in those types of places was hishobby. Godou understood."Well, it's no big deal anyway."Smiling happily, Ena reached towards the bedside.Placed there was a plate of apple slices, arranged neatly in rows. Picking apiece and popping it in her mouth, Ena continued:"This time, the ninja's job is already being done by those people in Italy. Healso said this is a pleasure trip.""He's always busy and rushing everywhere after all.""By the way, Onii-sama, I have something to report!"Hikari suddenly smiled at the nodding Godou."I've already decided to enroll in Jounan Academy's middle school divisionstarting this coming spring.""In fact, Hikari already took the entrance exam last month... and passedsuccessfully. Consequently, she will become our junior starting April.Please look after her, Godou-san."After reporting energetically, Yuri bowed her head deeply while sitting onthe bed.Godou went "eh" and felt impressed. The school where he and the otherswere studying, Jounan Private Academy, required passing entrance examsto enter the middle school because it was not a public school."This is really something worth celebrating, but are you really okay with ourschool?""Yes, not only Onee-chan but Onii-chan and the other Onee-samas arealso there. But apart from that, there's still one more thing to report. It's thepresent I mentioned earlier.""Oh yeah, isn't that what you told me when you first arrived?""Although there's a couple of days left so it's a bit early, I'm not sure if I'llbe able to see you on the actual day, so I'm giving it to you now inadvance. Please accept this!"Hikari had taken out a square box from her bag. It was wrapped verybeautifully. A slender box. It even had a cute ribbon wrapped around it.What was this? Smiling, Hikari explained to Godou in his puzzlement."Yes, Valentine's Day will be arriving soon, Onii-sama!""...Oh right, I see now."It probably contained chocolate inside. Figuring out the hidden contents,Godou smiled wryly.Due to spending the past two months in early fifth-century Gaul, he hadlost all calendar sense completely. However, calendars in the modern erawere clearly displaying a date in early February."Also, since we go to different schools, it's quite true that we might not seeeach other on the actual day."Speaking of which, it was still undecided whether they were going to returnhome before February 14 or not.In light of that, even if Hikari gave her present a few days early, there wasprobably nothing wrong with that.Godou gratefully accepted the wrapped box, smiling at the sixth graderwho had given the present and could not help but stroke her head. If he didthat to his own younger sister, she would express her displeasure bysaying "Don't treat me like a child!" However, Hikari simply responded witha happy and radiant smile.As a side note, the older sister, Yuri, had shock written all over her face.Ena was also making an expression of great surprise."S-Speaking of which, I have totally forgotten about this day...""Ena paid zero attention to tlie calendar on tiiis side. So it's Valentine'sDay, huh? Ena has heard rumors before. It seems like it's a day for givingchocolate...""So, I guess I'll have to start thinking of a present for White Day andcongratulating you on getting in our school."Deciding that a return gift was definitely required for Hikari's show of care,Godou muttered."Hikari, is there anything you want?""Nothing in particular. But if I'm allowed to be 'indulged' — I want to go outwith you to have fun, Onii-sama! Like amusement parks, theme parks oraquariums.""Eh? Together with me?"Although he wanted to fulfill this request as much as possible, Godouhesitated.Taking a girl out to leisure spots made him feel a bit embarrassed. Unableto agree readily, he found it difficult to answer. Of course, this did not countas a date. After all, she was a girl whose age made her like a little sister.Nevertheless, Godou really felt embarrassed about spending time alonewith a girl, just the two of them —Seeing Godou searching for an answer, Hikari instantly said:"Please, Onii-sama. You must take me, my Onee-chan, Ena-neesama,Erica-neesama and Liliana-neesama together somewhere to have fun!""Oh, I have to bring everyone along as well!?""Yes, of course!"Being the only man in a group of girls, it still felt embarrassing. However,Godou believed that rejecting this request would be unseemly as an elder,so he smiled wryly and said with generosity:"Sure, let's do that. Then we'll plan a schedule after returning to Japan.""Really? I'm so happy!""When the day comes, I'll make sure you're treated as the main guest,Hikari.""Fufufu. Please don't go out of your way, treating me the same as usual isfine."While conversing with the upfront Hikari, Godou felt quite unbelievable.Listening to the conversation that had just taken place before her eyes,Yuri was looking at her younger sister in utter surprise. Ena also looked asthough she were whispering something like "Hikari really is amazing. She'sgot a bright future ahead.""Mariya Hikari's potential really cannot be underestimated..."After hearing about what transpired, Liliana commented with heartfeltemotion.It was the second day after they had returned to the modern era. Going outby car, three girls had traveled to a town named Poppi, not far from theancient castle hotel where they were staying. The time was currently stillmorning.Seishuuin Ena was accompanying Mariya Yuri whose fever had subsided.Currently, the trio was shopping at a supermarket. That said, being locatedin a rural European town, the shop was no different from a Japaneseconvenience store in scale. The selection of goods was not very complete.Currently, the girls were browsing the goods offered in the confectionerycorner of this kind of shop.As expected, the shop did not offer the same abundant variety thatJapanese stores would have during this occasion. Even so, Liliana stillpondered in concentration while murmuring:"Prioritizing the rescue of Kusanagi Godou while simultaneously taking intothe account the possibility that he would survive through his own power,even going as far as to prepare chocolate in her luggage beforehand. Shemust have calculated that this would leave him the strongest impression inthe event that she is able to hand him the present during the stay in Italy...""D-Do Hikari's considerations go that far?""Although probably not to the extent of a wily female fox like Erica whocalculates everything, she should have considered the possibility of thatoutcome, hence preparing for it. That is what I feel. Also, the return gift isanother matter that must not be overlooked."The silver-haired knight spoke next to Hikari's older sister, Yuri."Also, there is combining the chocolate's return gift with the enrollmentcelebration. Despite a wish to have a date with Kusanagi Godou alone,she deliberately requested to take us along. This approach makes it easierto obtain Kusanagi Godou's consent and also minimizes the backlashrelative to other methods.""By backlash, what you mean is... Coming from Ena and the rest of you?""Yes.""Ena isn't going to reprimand Hikari for something of this level... Well, butperhaps Ena definitely would feel a bit jealous."Commenting with slight surprise, Ena added. Liliana nodded."In any case, this is how things are. Using the incident known as 'givingchocolate,' Mariya Hikari has won a small victory. However, she is quitecareful, or rather, I should say that she is subconsciously avoiding anexcessive victory. Instead, by sharing happiness together with us all, she isprobably aiming to avoid causing friction.""Indeed, that may possibly be one facet of Hikari's."Yuri murmured as though appraising her younger sister's personality."Very early on, she was already a child skilled in expressing her opinionwithout causing dissent in the surrounding people. Occasionally, I wouldfeel quite envious of that...""Strategy... No, a keen sense in savoir-vivre.""Perhaps this isn't a bad thing. Say, given what His Majesty is like, moregirls will continue to gather around him in the future, right? If a girl likeHikari is present, harmony and compromise can result in all sorts of things.There's that thing called human relations, right?"Hearing Ena's philosophical outlook of resignation, Yuri and Liliana noddedin agreement.The person in the center of their circle was someone who possessed thetalent of "increasing the number of intimate partners without consciousintent." Even though he had the kind of personality that treated bothgenders equally, at the same time, he also had the kind of destiny thatcaused him to cross paths with women quite frequently —"In any case, many issues exist in the current situation."Liliana shrugged lightly as though summing up."The spot beside him will be yielded to Mariya Hikari for today.""Hikari is going to take a walk with His Majesty, just the two of them, right?""Ah yes. Hikari had Godou-san indulge her wish to go sightseeing in thetown, so they went together.""Well, I could have found some random reason to go along, but it is betterto read the mood a little in times like these.""Ena and you two also need to buy chocolate first.""I am so sorry.."The three girls conversed while selecting the goods they wanted to buyrespectively. After checking out and paying, they left the supermarket.As a land filled with natural scenery, this area consisted of ruralsettlements, of course. No modernized buildings were built. Compared tobuildings constructed from steel-reinforced concrete, brick structures werefar more common.The atmosphere of ancient European towns was everywhere.Furthermore, the thick volume of accumulated snow everywhere wasalmost like a makeup layer of white winter. Yet despite this kind ofsnowscape, the sky was cloudless for miles around.Ignoring the possibility of sinking into the deep snow, this could beconsidered perfect weather for a walk in a certain sense.Even making a quick and casual round in the vicinity would be filled withfun for Japanese people from the Far East."Oh, by the way, Erica-san seems to be monitoring King Salvatore at themoment, right?"Walking in the lead, Ena asked."Yes. After a discussion with Sir Andrea and Erica's uncle, they assembledan emergency force to keep Sir Salvatore under surveillance. Of course,this should be enough to handle him if only he were a normal person."Liliana's explanation was mixed with sighing."However, Sir Salvatore is no normal person. This is theheadache-inducing part...""Well, Ena also knows clearly that King Salvatore is very curious aboutthings related to the 'King of the End.' That god seems to be outrageouslystrong.""The king manifesting at era's end — "Hearing Ena murmur that name, Yuri suddenly whispered."Just as I mentioned before, I cannot see that god's true name at all... Bethat as it may, there is a kind of ambiguous feeling.""You actually saw something? As expected of Yuri!""If I had to describe the extent... It really is just a kind of ambiguous feeling.Perhaps the key to elucidating that god's origins exists as an unexpectedform in Japan — located in our surroundings."Mariya Yuri was an outstanding user of spirit vision.Her capability in this area was perhaps the highest pinnacle in the world.Feeling deeply interested, Ena and Liliana listened to this hint revealed bythe beautiful Hime-Miko.PartsGodou and Hikari were visiting a town named Poppi, a rural commune thatwas quite small in area.Its population numbered six or seven thousand at most. However, the townreportedly had fairly antique origins, tracing all the way back to ancientRoman times. Furthermore, this was where a castle and its associatedcastle town had been built by feudal lords ruling the area during the MiddleAges.streets from the Middle Ages were still preserved in this little town'shistoric zone.Chapels, churches, the aforementioned castle town and other buildingsdating back to that era were still standing.These ancient streets were now adorned by a layer of snow like makeup. Asimple stroll through this place was enough to evoke a sense of foreignexotic atmosphere that could not be experienced in Japan.One could say it was definitely worth touring on foot while enduring thechilling cold."Say, isn't it time for a cup of hot coffee?""Then let's find a place to have lunch, Onii-sama!"They had been strolling casually on the snow-covered streets for an hourand a half already.As a result, Godou's body was already frozen stiff. It was probably thesame for Hikari too.That being said, the young girl who suggested lunch still looked quitecheerful in voice and demeanor. She looked like she was quite enjoyingthings. As a side note, the two of them were fully prepared with wintergear. Godou was wearing a soft jacket made of polyester for winter sportsuse, while Hikari was dressed in a white duffle coat.In addition, they were wearing knitted caps and mittens while Hikari evenhad a scarf wrapped around her neck."If only there's something like a restaurant here."Walking with Hikari, Godou muttered.In fact, he had visited this town before.That was during March last year when Erica accompanied him to trackdown the mysterious divine beast lurking in Casentino. Uldin's dragonsfrom fifth-century Gaul had also made appearances here.Nevertheless, the visit last time was extremely brief and thus had notoffered Godou much of a chance to get to know the town.Consequently, they had no choice but to continue their journey whilelooking around."Come to think of it, Shizuka sent me a text message."Due to being accompanied by a young girl, Godou suddenly rememberedabout his younger sister.The text message was received this morning before they headed out fromthe hotel."It was sent by Onii-sama's sister?""Yeah, because she's a sharp-tongued girl, the message was filled withranting and griping. Oh well, I guess it's my fault after all for leaving homewithout saying anything."Unlike the younger sister in the Mariya family, the Kusanagi household'syounger sister had a personality that was a bit excessively strict.Smiling wryly at this thought, Godou began to recall the contents of the textmessage where sentences like "Where the heck did you run off randomlyto, idiot Onii-chan!" substituted for seasonal greetings.That said, her words were filled with harsh reprimand for the older brotherwho had left without notice."She wrote a few things that made me quite curious. For example, shementioned a chance encounter with the boy from the Christmasparty— Stuff like that.""The boy at the Christmas party — Speaking of which, that's probablyLu-san from Hong Kong."Lu Yinghua was the only boy attending the Christmas party who matchedthe description.Nodding at Hikari who had easily guessed the answer, Godou remarkedwith heartfelt feeling."I hope Shizuka didn't cause any trouble for Yinghua... Last time, she evensaid something weird by accident."Godou remembered her commenting that Lu Yinghua had an underlingflavor to him despite his arrogant demeanor.Moreover, Shizuka was born with a personality like a bossy older sister's.A female member of the Kusanagi family who was destined to follow thefootsteps of the mother with her natural vocation of queen —Although it was already too late, Godou still prayed for his surrogatenephew who had terrible luck when it came to women.On the other hand, while walking beside Godou, Hikari was moreconcerned with another issue."I still haven't gotten to know Shizuka-san and Lu-san very well. Next time Isee them, I'll try my best to become better friends with them!""Eh? There's no need to devote so much effort into that.""No no, as someone who serves by your side, Onii-sama, thesesentiments are much obliged. Furthermore, I try hard in these areaspartially for Onee-chan's sake — ""I believe that it's necessary for us, the Mariya sisters, to have goodrelations with your family, Onii-sama. We sisters will continue to be in yourcare, Onii-sama^"As always, Hikari acted with such care and consideration that it wasimpossible to believe that she was still a young girl only in six grade.But at the same time, Godou found it quite interesting.The elder sister, Yuri, was a pure and noble young lady, quite detachedfrom the mundane world, for better or worse. In contrast, Hikari was quiteadept in handling worldly affairs with pertinence.In terms of personality, there was nothing similar about these two sisters.But perhaps this was precisely why they formed a combination thatsustained balance —"Hmm?"Godou and Hikari were currently walking along a main street.Ten-odd meters ahead was a familiar young man, featuring a head ofblond hair and a tall build, roughly 185cm in height. A face displayingfrivolity and lack of discipline — Salvatore Doni.Dressed in a gray coat, he had a slender, cylindrical case slung on hisshoulder.Doni could be seen approaching a light van that was parked on theroadside. Without warning, he opened the door and sat inside.Then the engine started immediately. The light van began to move quickly."Where's that guy planning to go...?"Godou felt intrigued. Earlier, he had received Liliana's report.The reckless troublemaker was apparently quite interested in the "King ofthe End."That was what the female knight, akin to Kusanagi Godou's grandchamberlain, had reported.'Of course, the King of the End is a divinity that has lain dormant for almosta thousand years. A being whose true identity remains unknown despitethe Divine Ancestors' search efforts over the ages. It is essentiallyimpossible for him to revive from something on the level of Sir Salvatore'sminor commotions... But just to be safe, it is still necessary to keep SirSalvatore under surveillance for now.'And among various influential people including Andrea Rivera, PaoloBlandelli and Saint Raffaello, agreement was apparently unanimous. Theywere all familiar with and understood clearly the truth that Campiones werea troublesome race, always ignoring probabilities somehow, easilyovercoming odds ofGodou hesitated as he watched the light van's departure.Should he intervene "just in case"? But Madame Aisha was also someonewho needed to be kept on priority surveillance. Which side was moreimportant?"Th-The person just now was Sir Salvatore, right?"Noticing Godou's gaze, Hikari also looked at the light van."I've heard that he is your dear friend and fated rival too!""Who the heck is feeding such a rubbish and totally wrong profile to you!?""l-lt's wrong? Last night when I encountered Sir Salvatore by chance andgreeted him, that's what he said himself — "Hearing Hikari's explanation, Godou felt his strength draining away.Under those circumstances, the sixth grader had done nothing wrong inoffering polite greetings on their first encounter, even when the other partywas the world-renowned Campione. The senior who introduced himselftotally erroneously was the one to blame."I knew it, I must chase after that idiot...!"After Godou made his decision out of instantaneous anger rather thanrational thought..."Godou, perfect timing for you to be here!""...Erica!?"Godou was surprised to be called by a gallant and beautiful voice.The voice came from the vehicle lane. Godou turned his gaze to see afemale rider approaching them on a mid-sized motorcycle, then stoppingher vehicle on the roadside.The motorcycle's paint job was a vivid shade of bright red whereas theleather suit was pitch black.A rossonero combination of red and black. The female rider took off herhelmet, revealing Erica's beautiful face and head of blonde hair."I'm currently following Sir Salvatore who has left this town, thinking itwould be terrible if anything were to happen. Want to come along?""Yeah. Letting him run wild is too worrying!"Godou instantly replied then looked at Hikari. The young Hime-Miko intraining nodded immediately in response.Godou's intention was for her to return to the hotel first on her own, havingheard that she already had experience traveling overseas many timesalready despite being only twelve years old. More importantly, she wasquite a clever girl. Godou did not worry.Hence, Godou immediately climbed on to sit behind Erica, resulting in twopeople riding astride the motorcycle."Please hold on, Onii-sama! Please take this!"Just as Erica was about to start the engine, Hikari quickly ran over.Swiftly untying the scarf on her neck, she wrapped it tightly aroundGodou's neck instead.Freezing-cold wind was currently blowing in the first place. Riding amotorcycle in such conditions would mean exposing the entire body toextremely strong, chilling wind.Hikari was probably offering her scarf to Godou because she was worryingabout this fact."Thanks. Let's go. Erica!"Expressing his gratitude for the young girl's care, Godou reached hishands behind his waist.He supported his weight by gripping the handle at the back of the seat.This was a horizontal bar for increasing safety for tandem riders.The blonde partner instantly twisted the accelerator, causing the bright redmotorcycle to start moving.She raised the speed all at once. Within the blink of an eye, the motorcyclehad sped off, leaving Hikari behind.The motorcycle was able to move without hindrance because theaccumulated snow had already been cleared from the roads.Furthermore, traffic was quite low in volume. The motorcycle was currentlytrailing Salvatore Doni's light van by several hundred meters.Godou was quite impressed with Erica's outstanding driving skills."You sure can ride well, not just horses but also this kind of thing!""Yes. During the Great Sage Equaling Heaven incident, I felt there was aneed for this, so I started learning a lot subsequently. I'm now totallydifferent from back then!"Carrying two passengers, Godou and Erica, the mid-sized motorcyclesliced through the powerful wind, propelled by its 400cc engine.To avoid getting drowned out by tlie noise of tlie wind, tiiey liad to raisetlieir voices in order to converse. Just now, Erica was referring to tlie timewlien sine liad driven a four-wlieeled automobile during tlie Great SageEqualing Heaven incident, not a two-wheeled motorcycle.Still, sitting behind the young Italian girl, Godou could understand.Definitely quite different from before. Last time, Erica was skillfullycontrolling a car as a driver for the first time(!), using only her inborn talentand sense for driving.However, back then, she clearly knew nothing about matters such as trafficregulations and driving techniques.But this time. Erica not only controlled the mid-sized motorcycle withgraceful motions but also did it without causing any trouble for thesurrounding vehicles in motion.Erica was driving the motorcycle smoothly along the flow of traffic.Completely stable and safe driving.What she meant by learning a lot was probably knowledge and experienceof driving on ordinary roads."Nothing less expected of Erica Blandelli — Godou, you could praise me likethat, you know?""That's true. Even though you're always so busy, you still managed to learnsuch amazing skills. Although only half a year has passed since that time, Ican't believe you've already obtained a driving license that's also usable inItaly!""Huh, what license?""...Hey Erica.""Speaking of which, the matter of obtaining a driving license needs to bepostponed.""You're actually driving without a license!? I take back what I said!""Why does it even matter? There are no problems at all with my drivingknowledge and vehicle control. Suppose a situation does arise where adriving license is needed, I also have magic to take care of things."Erica replied, completely unremorseful.In those circumstances, she was probably intending to use hypnosis magicto bewitch police personnel. Still maintaining a magnificent driving postureflawlessly, the [Copper Black Cross]'s premier knight was staring sharply atthe light van that was traveling ahead.As always. Erica's respect for common sense values was quite weak."Anyway, that's enough of that, Godou! Please hold on tight!""Then there's no helping it... Don't lose that idiot's trail!""Yes, you can count on me!"Slicing through the winter season's chilling wind, the motorcycle spedalong at seventy to eighty kilometers per hour —Naturally, this meant getting frozen solid all over for the duration of thejourney. Hence, feeling the scarf around his neck, Godou felt very gratefulto Hikari.Part 4Doni's light van traveled west, cruising along Tuscany's state highways.The light van traversed mountainous areas near mountain pass roads toreach Florence's provincial roads, then arriving in the vicinity of theprovincial capital. But instead of entering the city of Florence, theycontinued westward.Using provincial roads, Doni's contingent reached the Italian peninsula'swestern coast."Godou, why don't we stop nearby for a late lunch?"Driving the mid-sized motorcycle. Erica had been maintaining a certaindistance in their pursuit of Doni's light van, persisting for the past hour anda half or so.But as soon as they arrived in the outskirts of Florence, she quicklydecelerated and stopped her vehicle by the side of the road.The light van they had been following soon departed into the distance.Since it stood to reason that Erica could not have made such anelementary blunder, Godou asked with certainty:"Another tracking team is taking over liere?""Yes, indeed. In fact, we are not tine only ones tailing Sir Salvatore. Twoother teams had also departed Casentino and are currently tracking him aswell. Furthermore, I was supposed to pass the job along to other membersof the [Copper Black Cross] near Florence in the first place.""Just as I figured."When experts in this area undertook tailing operations, it was natural tosplit into multiple teams.Godou had heard about these arrangements before. Members of theItalian faction had apparently made flawless plans in this regard.Nevertheless, the blonde female knight frowned."Actually, using magic would be the best method of tracking... But becauseSir Salvatore's senses are rather sharp, using magic would probably riskgetting discovered by him instead."As a side note, Godou was told that Doni had left his usual cellphone in hisroom before setting off.Hence, it was not possible to confirm his location using various meanssuch as call records or GPS. Eschewing gadgets like phones despite livingin the modern era, he probably intended to go off the grid, out of contact."Next, we'll see if the organization picking up Sir Salvatore has any meansof getting past our side — ""Those guys are Doni's subordinates?""I doubt it. All the staff under his name have been commanded by hisbutler. Sir Andrea, to withdraw from the region of Tuscany. There shouldn'tbe anyone in that faction who's foolish enough to defy the strict order of theKing's Butler.""Then that means the idiot has summoned secret subordinates that evenAndrea-san doesn't know...""That's probably right if you look at it that way."Starting the motorcycle again. Erica drove towards the city of Florence.Soon, she discovered an appropriate cliurcli and parked tine motorcycle intine adjoining car park, not for tlie sake of siglitseeing but to visit a nearbyrestaurant.Finally, they had a chance to sit down and start enjoying a late lunch."Where does that guy Doni want to go?""He presumably intends to leave Tuscany. Going along that road whichfollows the Arno River, he will reach Pisa."The Arno River.Godou remembered Erica mentioning before that it was a great river thatcrossed Tuscany from east to west.In addition, he had also heard of the other name."Pisa is the city that's known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, right?""Yes. There's also the Univeristy of Pisa where Galileo Galilei studied aswell as an airport. Rushing from Pisa, a thirty-minute drive is all it takes toreach Livorno — a harbor city facing the Ligurian Sea.""A port at an airport, huh."In other words, a gateway to sea and air travel.Sitting in the restaurant, listening to Erica's deductions at the table, Godouremarked quietly.As a side note, they were discussing while having various food includingchickpeas salad, cylindrical pasta mixed with lamb sauce, bistecca,Florentine mixed stew, unsalted bread unique to Tuscany, etc.Just as they were almost done eating and having an after-meal coffee...Erica's cellphone sounded briefly to indicate receiving a message.Glancing at the LCD screen, the communication device's owner shruggedlightly."Some unfortunate news. The tracking teams' valiant efforts have ended infailure with the target apparently lost. The people Sir Salvatore called overseem to be quite experienced in this kind of job."The report presumably arrived via the text message. Erica sighed."Since Sir Salvatore is cliasing after sliadow of tine 'King of tine End,' iiisdestinations are limited. However, it's still quite difficult to narrow down aparticular location without any clues. What should we do?"Seeing Erica in deep thought, Godou suddenly remembered.Before setting off for ancient Gaul, Godou had found out about Doni'sunexpected connections. That man really did have old acquaintanceswhom he could trust to carry out secret tasks —This time, it was Godou's turn to take out his cellphone.Using this tool which he had put aside and ignored throughout his timetraveling journey, Godou tried dialing a number, a task he had not done forquite some time.On the fifth ring, the international call connected.'It's been quite a while, Honored Uncle. I've already heard news of yourreturn from Madame Aisha's cave. It's wonderful that you are safe andsound.'"Well, many things did happen."The receiver of the call was the young master and leading subordinate inHong Kong's Lu family.He trained in martial arts under the instruction of Kusanagi Godou's "swornelder sister" Luo Cuilian as her one and only direct disciple. Consequently,he revered Godou as his master's younger brother, considered an uncle byoriental social hierarchy..."How's life lately? Things going well?"'Yeah, thanks to you. Honored Uncle, my days are going smoothly. Theonly task I have remaining for today is to get a good night's rest.'"Huh? It should be roughly ten o'clock over there for you, right? Isn't it a bitearly for bed?"Italy was separated from Japan by a time difference of eight hours. Theclock hands on Godou's side were currently pointing at two in theafternoon, which meant that the time over in Japan could hardly be calledlate night. Godou was quite surprised.For a fourteen-year-old youth's bedtime, wasn't it a bit too early?'If there's nothing special to do, I will sleep as early as possible. That'sbecause I have to do morning training before dawn every morning.'"That's getting up a bit... No, quite early."'Although people are always surprised to find out, this is the truth indeed.'A young leader from a criminal organization based in Hong Kong. If onewere to judge purely from a description of this kind of character, theimpression given would be someone who often stayed up late andindulged in night life instead. And taking it a step further, Lu Yinghua alsolived in Shinjuku's Kabukichou, one of Japan's top entertainment andred-light districts.However, Lu Yinghua explained in a calm tone of voice:'Included in Luo Cuilian's martial arts is an exercise involving "thecultivation of internal skills while worshiping the rising sun of dawn."Starting from the age of three, every morning, I was forced — no, asked — totrain in this, so I ended up acquiring this habit unwittingly, that of risingfrom bed as early as eighty-year-old geezers.'"Ah... So Nee-san is the cause as well."'She described it as absorbing the cleanest and purest solar energies soas to augment internal skills.'Another confession reminiscent of the harsh childhood he had endured.Internal skills. Godou currently knew this was what the Japanese calledkikou and known to westerners as breathing exercise or spirit cultivation.Having started his training by Luo Cuilian's side under her tutelage fromearly childhood, Lu Yinghua had consequently acquired various negativeassets such as misogyny, a sadistic attitude towards beautiful femalefighters, as well as professional cooking skills despite his young age offourteen..."By the way, you met my younger sister Shizuka earlier, right?"'So you have heard, Honored Uncle? Yeah, I ran into her by chance a fewdays ago in Shinjuku.'"...She didn't cause you any trouble, did she?"Sensing slight anxiety in tine prideful surrogate nepliew's tone of voice,Godou asked as a test just in case, in response, Lu Yingliua answeredwitli a sliglit sigli.'No trouble worth mentioning. However, well, she truly does have acapacity for boldness as befits her position as Honored Uncle'ssister — That's basically what I felt keenly.'"How should I say this? I'm really sorry."'It's nothing, don't worry about it. She really didn't cause me any trouble atall. Also—""Also?"'I've been inspired slightly to resolve myself to escape the next time I seeher.'"I see. If you ever notice her trying to say anything, don't think and just runaway immediately. Even as her elder brother, I believe that's the wisestchoice."'Understood. Also, is there anything you'd like me to do for you. HonoredUncle?'As expected of Yinghua. He instantly figured out that the main subject hadnot been broached yet."Actually, something a bit troublesome has come up over here in Italy."Godou briefly summarized Salvatore Doni's worrying movements, finallyadding:"So last time, you mentioned it, right? You've got friends in Chinatown overhere who does dirty work for that idiot Doni. I have a feeling that thosepeople are involved in this incident too."This was something that he had heard Yinghua mention before the trip toancient Gaul.'I do remember such a conversation. Well then, I'll go get some informationfrom those people.'"You don't need to do that. Just tell me how to contact those people. Wecan handle that side of things."Hearing Godou's response, Lu Yinghua laughed malevolently.'Haha. Indeed, it'll be faster and easier if your side does it, Honored Uncle.I understand the particulars now.'After hanging up, several minutes passed.Godou's cellphone then received a message. Naturally, the sender was LuYinghua. Godou showed the address, telephone number and otherinformation on the LCD screen to Erica.Hence, the blonde beauty known as the Diavolo Rosso smiledmalevolently in a manner as befitted her title."So it's my turn next, eh? Fufu, leave it to me. Given the mighty name ofKusanagi Godou and the eloquent tongue of Erica Blandelli, ten minutesare enough for this sort of thing."In actual fact, eight minutes was sufficient.Calling herself the delegate of Japan's Campione and successfullycontacting the shady organization called the [King's Company] and basedin the Chinatown of the ancient capital, Rome, Erica quickly obtained thenecessary information from the company's representative through verbalmeans.Using the names of Godou and the [Copper Black Cross] as threats, shealso placated the other party with sweet words at the same time.Still the same as always, what an outstanding negotiator she was."Since we've clarified Sir Salvatore's approximate destination, let's trysome fancy tricks, shall we?""Fancy tricks?""Yes. Let's play a slight trick so that we can catch up to Sir Salvatore."Godou's cellphone was currently placed on the table in the restaurant.Pointing at his cellphone. Erica suggested in a delighted tone of voice:"Hey Godou, I have someone else I'd like to contact."Hence, several hours passed. The sun was almost setting completely.Night was just about to start.Godou and Erica's location liad sliifted away from tine region of Tuscany incentral Italy to somewhere else all of a sudden. Taking a flight from Pisa'sAeroporto Galileo Galilei, the two of them had flown for roughly an hour inthe southwestern direction, crossing the Mediterranean Sea to reach theisland of Sardinia — Italy's westernmost autonomous region.Even as an island, Sardinia was only slightly larger than Shikoku, thesmallest and least populous of Japan's four main islands.Whether for Godou or Erica, this island was where everything had started.Exiting the airport at the island's regional capital, Cagliari, Godou and Ericafollowed the guides (Caucasian men with scary-looking faces who wereclearly not "reputable" people despite their neat-looking black suits) whowere waiting for them. The pair was then led to be seated in a white BMW.Their destination was a luxury hotel in the city of Cagliari.Then they arrived before two men who were chatting cheerfully at arestaurant inside the hotel.Godou recognized both men.One was a blond and handsome man with a frivolous face, Salvatore Doni.The other was an obese old man. He was dressed gallantly in a high-classcustom-tailored suit, puffing on a thick cigar, displaying dignified solemnityas befitted the mafia —His public identity was the boss of the Sicilian mafia that made theirstronghold on the island of Sicily.Secretly, he was the commander-in-chief of the magic association[Panormus]. Walter Zamparini."Ohoh, Kusanagi Godou! Sir Salvatore and I are waiting for you together!""Jeez... Godou, you're such a bad man too."Zamparini's eyes shone while he was welcoming Godou. On the otherhand, Doni shrugged."I can't believe you ordered this old guy to capture my friends at the airport.You even asked him to pass along that whatever 'wait for me until I catchup' message.""It's your fault for leaving without your cellphone."After giving Doni a terrifying glare, Godou continued:"Oh well, even if you kept your phone, you can still cut off contact byswitching the power off.""Hahahaha, not like it matters. Even if I'm out of touch for a month or two,Andrea can get along fine on his own.""That's the kind of 'so-what' attitude from the man who fled fromAndrea-san's side."At this moment, the hotel attendant walked over to the table and pulled outa chair for Erica.The blonde beauty sat down swiftly and naturally.Godou took his seat in the remaining chair. Thus, dinner was ready tostart.As a side note. Erica had already changed and was now wearing a short,red, one-piece dress with a black cardigan of lace."Uncle Zamparini, I'm so sorry for causing you trouble.""Don't worry, Blandelli. I wouldn't want to miss this rare chance to meetKusanagi Godou again after so long either. I must thank Sir Salvatore forbeing so understanding and willing to accompany these old bones of minefor a chat."Old Man Zamparini smiled proudly and took a puff of his cigar.The Campione of Swords had made his way to Sardinia with assistancefrom the [King's Company].After learning of this fact. Erica had advised Godou to contact Zamparini.Godou proceeded to do so and made his request: "I hope you can catchDoni's contingent at the Cagliari airport, prevent them from leaving andpass to Salvatore Doni my intention to have a chat between Campionestonight."Added as a final note was permission to resort to violence if necessary.Hence, this immensely wealthy old man and Sicilian mafia boss had takenhis Cessna private jet, spending merely an hour to hurry from Sicily over toSardinia. Tlien arriving at tlie airport before Doni's group, lie liad fulfilledGodou's request magnificently.Naturally, the same request had been made of the magi in Sardinia.Nevertheless, few possessed the courage capable of opposing Doni, whostood as Italy's Devil King, to force the idiot into "having a chat nearby."Hence, that was why Erica had named Zamparini of Sicily as thecandidate.She had nominated the most broadminded man of influence who livedrelatively close to Sardinia.In the past, this old man had also provided support during the battleagainst the divine king, Melqart. Although he had Godou backing him, itwas no less of an accomplishment for him to have fulfilled Godou'sexpectations splendidly —"Oh well, since Godou already found out my destination, I knew someonewas going to catch up eventually.""You really came to this island to see her — Lucretia-san?"Godou brought up a nostalgic name.Lucretia Zola. Also known as the Witch of Sardinia. At one point, she hadbeen a researcher who had joined Divine Ancestor Guinevere to seek theidentity of the "King of the End.""Completely correct. I heard from somewhere before that she's the personin Italy who knows the most details about the 'King of the End' and the wargods of the past and present, east and west."Despite being a fool to the core, every now and then when dealing withimportant matters, Doni would display competence that one must notoverlook.Doni winked while exhibiting this familiar special skill."The war god we met in ancient Gaul is still sleeping somewhere on theEarth, right? It should be quite fun to wake up him up for a bit, or at leastsome hints could be found. That's what I'm thinking.""You can't wake up that kind of dangerous god, not even for a bit, okay!?"Scolding Doni for his idiotic nonsense, Godou tlien muttered:"Besides, even England's Gascoigne spent many years and still couldn'tfigure out the guy's true identity. An investigation of your level will surelyfail, right?""How will I know if I don't try...? Oh yeah, would you like a drink?""The legal drinking age in Japan is twenty.""But look, isn't Erica Blandelli drinking right now?""W-When did you start...""I'm already sixteen, Godou, which is an age allowed to drink in Italy. HeyGodou, doing as the Romans do is only polite, isn't it?""In that case, let us prepare some drinks for Your Highness. — ^You there,bring us everything."Apart from Godou, the other three were chatting amiably with a wine glassin one hand each.Furthermore, Zamparini had summoned the bartender, pointed at the firstpage of the wine list — a selection filled solely with expensive wines — andrecklessly ordered "bring us everything."Seeing that, Godou instantly cried out:"How can I finish this much!? No wait, I wasn't planning on drinking asingle drop in the first place!""Don't be so rigid and conservative. Let us drink to our hearts' contenttonight!"Calmly ignoring the Campione's refusal, Zamparini even laughed boldlyand cheerfully.He was an old man with outstanding courage indeed. In excellent spirits,Zamparini downed his glass of red wine in one breath."Ohoh, that reminds me. Kusanagi Godou, I have a granddaughter whojust turned two.""A granddaughter? She must be very cute."Of course, Godou had never seen this granddaughter of Old ManZamparini's.But in the grandfather's eyes, surely she must be cuter than anyone else inthe world. Taking commonplace preconceptions into account, Godouexpressed agreement matter-of-factly."Hehe, excellent judgment. Your Highness. Yes indeed, it is as you say, itwould not be an exaggeration to call my granddaughter a peerlessbeauty... So, what are your thoughts?""What do you mean by that?""In other words, will you accept her as your lover? Kusanagi Godou, I havealso heard that you choose to have many beauties serving by your side,thus building a splendid harem. Hohoho, as expected of the promisingyoung Campione whom I, Zamparini, hold in high regard. Now that is trulya Devil King's style of magnificence!""H-Hold on. That's a misunderstanding!""You are too modest. In my view as the grandfather, my granddaughter isdefinitely a beauty worthy of serving you. Please do consider it!""Come on, you can't actually tell if a two-year-old baby is a beauty or not!"Met with a reunion with this old man from Sicily whom Godou had not seenfor so long, the night gradually grew late amidst a lively atmosphere.PartsDespite insistent urging from the host, Godou finished his dinner withoutdrinking a single drop of alcohol.Although Erica had drunk many glasses of wine, she did not show anysigns of drunkenness.Meanwhile, the two adult men, Salvatore Doni and Zamparini, keptopening vast numbers of bottles with hearty splendor. In this manner, thebanquet held in the restaurant came to an end."Since the person he's going to see is Lucretia-san, I guess it should beokay 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 waslocated. Hence, Godou decided to gratefully accept the old man's kindoffer.The next day's plans involved keeping Doni under supervision and headingover to visit Lucretia's residence."Since he waited until now to find Lucretia-san for information, then I guesshe really doesn't know anything about the 'King of the End.' Looks like it'sokay 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 ofSwords had secretly obtained important information from ancient Gaulabout the "King of the End." Furthermore, using this knowledge, he wasvery likely planning to reawaken the Devil King-slaying hero in the modernera.But standing next to Godou, Erica was frowning with an expression ofdeep 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? Ibelieve that chances are not entirely zero for Sir Salvatore to suddenlycome across important information regarding the 'King of the End' purelyby 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 seeLucretia-san again after such a long time.""I phoned her just now but she seems quite reluctant. She said she doesn'twant you two to come.""Why!?""Isn't it perfectly natural? It's no exaggeration to call it a disaster whenCampiones are trying to visit your home. Rather, it's something to beavoided 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 thetypical Campiones," a heaven-sent child of disaster. Yes, it could not behelped that there are areas contributing to this image but come on, at leastdon't lump me together with Doni —That was how Godou wanted to retort but there were more importantthings 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 haddried her wet hair with a towel then started walking around in the room inthis unguarded state.Since Erica was wearing nothing except for a white bathrobe, the lines ofher 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 weirdstate of mind? Godou agonized in his mind.Unaware of his internal thoughts. Erica sat down on the bed, crossing herlegs.She even went as far as to openly display her beautiful legs of pristinewhite.Feeling his heart pounding uncontrollably, Godou turned his gaze awayagain.However, he also noticed a certain detail. Erica was sitting on one of thebeds 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 alsothe 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 arrangedfor this room. Didn't we sleep in the same room last time when we werestaying overnight at his mansion?""His original intention was to book a suite that even had Monaco royaltymaking 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 highschool student..."That being said, the current room was also plenty spacious but at least itwas 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 themhad already survived numerous battles together, becoming comrades whoknew each other's temperament thoroughly. Moreover, they were specialpartners 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 sortof 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 apartfrom me already, haven't you? Isn't it time for you to grow accustomed tothis sort of thing?""Any objections?""None... I guess.""Very well. Now that's my Godou. His Majesty the Devil King whose bestialdesires cannot be satiated by me, Erica Blandelli, alone, but mustrepeatedly extend his poisonous fangs towards other girls."Erica sat down beside him. Now the two of them were sitting shoulder toshoulder on the bed."Although you've already surprised me many times, Godou... This is stillthe most surprising thing. Despite clearly being a blockhead who has noidea how to get along with girls, you somehow end up causing Yuri, Lilyand 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 'Youalways fail to understand my feelings — ' But that would run contrary to mystyle, Erica Blandelli's. It's already too late to say that sort of thing. It wouldbe undignified. Although I am definitely a slightly vainglorious woman,perhaps this type of personality ends up the worse off during times likethese."Naturally, Kusanagi Godou had no right to complain even if he werestabbed by the girls faction, with Erica first and foremost. Apart fromlistening 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 himon 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 eversay that you wish to escape me — escape our feelings.""Erica...""If you would promise me that, I could turn a blind eye to your deplorablebehavior. How about that?"Godou did not answer the girl who had expressed her feelings in such acalm and resigned manner.Instead, he drew his face close and sealed Erica's lips with his own. Ericaaccepted him without resisting. Although the two of them had engaged inpassionate kissing many times in tine past, tiiey did not covet eacli otiier'slips or entangle their tongues together this time.Simply pressing their lips together, they kissed quietly.Nevertheless, the emotions involved were perhaps even more powerfulthan 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 noddedslightly stiffly.She picked up a slender slab-shaped object, peeling off the wrappingpaper 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 herteeth. Roughly one third of the slab remained on her lips. Furthermore, outof all everyone Godou knew, the most gorgeous and beautiful maiden wasdrawing 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 theslab-shaped chocolate to Godou via mouth-to-mouth. In addition, heraction 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'smouth, even going as far as to lick Godou's tongue thoroughly togetherwith 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 chocolatetogether.Using the tips of tlieir tongues, tiiey began to pusli tlie cliocolate around.IVIoving from Godou's moutii into Erica's mouth then back to Godou'smouth again. Stirred by their tongues and saliva, the chocolate graduallymelted, staining their lips.Godou thoroughly savored the flavor while licking the sweetness in Erica'smouth.Likewise, Erica moved her tongue and lips, licking the sweetness inGodou's mouth. It was only natural that their lips would get stained bychocolate, but together with its taste, they licked each other clean with theirtongues.In the end, it took the two of them wholly three minutes or so to finish thepiece of chocolate."Hey Godou.... How about... we eat a bit more...?"Hearing Erica whispering softly before his eyes, Godou felt incomparablyexcited inside."Fufufufu. Although I am aware that it is customary for Japanese girls topresent gifts of chocolate to boys this time of the year, I originally had nointention of giving you any. This sort thing fails to interest me. But afterhearing that Hikari had already succeeded in giving you chocolate, Ichanged my mind."The young beauty, always radiant with intellect, was now showing a smilefull of bliss before his eyes.This was proof that she had entrusted her heart to Godou and heightenedhis desire to shower Erica with tender affection."Although Hikari is a cute junior, it would be a taint to the name of EricaBlandelli 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 anearby shop.Nevertheless, Godou experienced a mind-numbing feeling after savoringthat taste. Erica was probably feeling the same way. Gazing into eachother'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 insuppressing himself any further.Besides, the two of them were sitting on a bed to begin with. Driven withpassion, Godou pushed Erica down on her back. As a result, her bathrobefell open, revealing the valley between her breasts."Godou...!"Pushed down. Erica cradled Godou's neck in her arms, hugging himtightly.Godou not only felt her body's warmth but also the heavy and elasticsensations of her breasts, pressed tightly against his body, causing hisexcitement to soar even further.Immediately, Godou took her lips. In turn, Erica accepted Godou'sintensely passionate kiss.As a result, locked in mutual embrace in this manner, the pair repeatedlypressed their lips together in ecstatic fervor, sucking on each other'smouth, caressing tongue against tongue lovingly again and again.Exchanging light bites on the earlobes, they even sucked on each other'sneck.In this manner, the two of them repeated such behavior nonstop for five orsix minutes —Finally, Godou pushed his body up.Separating from Erica's body, he interrupted the embrace. Rather thanrecovering sanity, it would be better described as a feeling of unstoppablemomentum. Honestly speaking, he definitely felt inclined to embrace Ericaand 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 soadorable that they were irresistible. Be that as it may, if he were to acceptthem 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 stillremained smiling.It was the same smile of bliss that he had seen earlier. Noticing Godou'spuzzled 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 turnis 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 continuedto announce malevolently:"It's because you won't accept my willful demands, that's why. Whenclearly I hope with sincerity to deepen our relationship, Godou, to make mybody and soul yours."IIII"I won't be satisfied unless you agree to this level of compensation.""l-lf I sleep together with you, I might not be able to hold back!""When that happens, please dispense with your worrying, go ahead andwhisper 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 — utterlyshocked, he was unable to raise further objections.Parte"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 communityalmost on the same scale as the town of Poppi that Godou and Erica hadvisited 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 sittingcasually on the living room sofa.As a side note, although they had spent the previous night at Cagliari, thatcity was actually quite far from Oliena. Even traveling by car would takesubstantial time. Consequently, Zamparini had rented a helicopter(!) tosend Godou, Erica and Doni here.Moreover, saying he had things to do, the old man had returned to Sicilyearly in the morning..."Truly what a disaster for the world, to think that another Campione afterPrince Alec has appeared to track down the hero king's trail. Oh well, sinceyou 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 torefuse...""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 Wke that. I just want you to tell methe 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 greatestriddle. I am unable to respond to your demand. Sir Salvatore."Despite calling Godou "young man," Lucretia used polite speech towardsDoni. Nevertheless, her lethargic gaze clearly displayed her regretfulsentiments towards the foolish king.As a side note, the two who were listening to the conversation from theside, Godou and Erica, remained silent throughout.Rather than a wish to avoid getting involved blindly, it would be better tosay that they found oral intervention to be troublesome too."1 see. Then if there's any summarized info on the 'King of the End' orsomething 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 manypeople are getting yanked around!?""Hey now, Godou. Asking someone for a favor over the phone is very poormanners.""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 offimmediately. 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 sameas always, in terms of flawlessly concealing the hidden agenda behind hisfoolish behavior. In any case, the purpose of visiting Lucretia's residencewas 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 theliving room's entrance.Despite arriving merely twenty minutes ago, he was already taking hisleave. Whether in personality or behavior, this was very typical of the Kingof 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 asingle word.This was probably out of deference to her position as a knight in front oftwo Campiones. However, Erica did not intend to act reserved the wholetime. Before coming here, the Diavolo Rosso had already madepreparations.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 oppositedirection — making his way to the depths of the residence.He took leisurely steps as though heading to the washroom. But as soonas 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 leftwith Miss Erica before my eyes before returning on your own. To have aprivate conversation with me.""...Now that you mention it, that really did happen."Prompted by Lucretia, Godou remembered it too.Last time, tliere was a need to tall< in Erica Blandelli's absence. But tiiistime, lie was meeting Lucretia face to face under Erica's arrangements.Godou would never liave expected tliis cliange in circumstances witiiinless than a year's worth of time.Godou smiled wryly. This would have been totally unthinkable back whenhe made his first visit to Italy.Furthermore, his relationship with Erica even developed to the currentstate —Godou recalled the scene this morning. Stuck in a predicament where hehad no choice but to share beds with Erica, he was naturally quite troubledand 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 dignifiedface was as adorable as a sleeping angel's. For a moment, he watched inmesmerization. But due to sensing Godou's movements, Erica alsoawakened. While rubbing her sleepy eyes, she smiled with absoluteinnocence and purity...Erica's expression, completely different from her usual self, leavingGodou's emotions unsettled ever since getting up in the morning."I never expected a day when I would re-encounter Miss Erica and you inthis manner. Although I do have the intention to live that long, never in mywildest dreams would I have expected my old friend's grandson to becomea Campione."Gazing at Godou, Lucretia's eyes carried a gentleness that she seldomshowed, similar to that of a grandmother and an older sister at the sametime."Well then, it's almost time to broach the main subject. I've already heardover the phone from Miss Erica. You have apparently obtained a clueregarding 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 inthe 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 HisHighness Alexandre for betraying my love. Regarding the great hero whomhe seeks, you should search the Argo's genealogy if his true name is whatyou desire. I reveal this secret only to you alone, Kusanagi-sama!"While saying that, her face displayed a smile more adorable than anybeautiful maiden's.Despite clearly knowing the answer to the mystery Alexandre Gascoignesought, she remained silent during the time spent with him.Furthermore, Godou was finally able to pass this message along toLucretia.Transmitted to the woman who had devoted her life at one point towardsresearching the "King of the End.""...The Argo huh. The name of the ship built by the hero Jason in order toobtain the Colchis kingdom's secret treasure — the Golden Fleece — theArgo 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 aminute or two. With glazed eyes, she remained silent for a while beforespeaking again in unhurried murmurs:"Long long ago, at a certain place — "These whispers were said in Japanese. Just now, the two of them hadbeen conversing in Italian, but Lucretia suddenly spoke in Japanese.Godou jumped in surprise. Could it be tliat sine liad received an oracle viaspirit vision?Although not reaching Mariya Yuri's level of attainment, Lucretia was alsoa 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 visionregarding 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 longago. 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 finalincarnation — the weapon of the [Warrior]."This was probably an oracle via spirit vision as well. Lucretia spokesolemnly."The king manifesting at era's end is a deity who hides his nameinsistently. If the origin of his true name could be elucidated, then turningthat knowledge into a blade... The sword's spell words might possibly bringout far greater power than ever before.""My... Verethragna's sword?""For those who hide their names, the most powerful blow is only possibleto deliver if their true name is spoken. But of course, the battle cannot bewon simply through this alone."After that, Godou took his leave from Lucretia's residence.He rejoined his two companions outside. However, the helicopter that hadtransported them here had already returned to the Cagliari area."We need to arrange for transportation to get back. I've contacted fellowmembers 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 acellphone in one hand.Lucretia's residence was located at the very edge of town. There were noshops or other residences nearby. Erica started walking towards arelatively busier part of the tiny Oliena.Before leaving, she signaled with her eyes to Godou, probably asking himto 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 sunnytoday.Although the winter wind was quite chilly, thanks to the sunlight, it waswithin 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 ofwide open plains.If it were spring, this area would probably be covered with blooming flowersof 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 wordinvestigation 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 Gascoigneprobably would hate Salvatore Doni and his foolish airs. Indeed, just likehow Kusanagi Godou kept calling this man an idiot and felt veryincompatible with that eccentric nobleman as well.However — enduring this feeling of wanting to click his tongue, Godousecretly felt well-matched.(The things this guy does, ended up not being completely futile oruseless...)Today, Godou had paid Lucretia a visit due to getting dragged out here onaccount 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 ontothe Witch of Sardinia, thereby obtaining that spirit vision —It was possible that Lucretia might have obtained the same oracle eventhrough 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 ahint 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 theCampiones, 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'saccomplished. Let's go find gods worthy as our opponents, or start ajourney of investigation — ""After all that trouble to get back to this side, don't go causing commotionsthe same way as what you did in Gaul!""No no, you've got things backwards. I simply brought my modern waysover 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 anumber of times.""Like hell anyone wants to duel! I've already had enough showdownsbetween you and me. For the rest of my life, I'm fine with exiting the stagewith 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 byArtio.""Shut up. Adjusting your physical condition during battle is also a part ofcompetency!"While the two were engaged in a dialogue lacking in the solemnity of DevilKings...They suddenly stopped talking at the same time. A presence — Both ofthem noticed a presence that only Campiones could sense, beinggodslayers.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 ofsituation."After grumbling, Godou felt the blowing of wind.The cold and freezing wind of winter, blowing from a certain direction. Evenwhen this gust of cold wind swirled before the two Devil Kings to form acyclone, 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'sappearance. 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 werepitch black."The wind god we met in Gaul!?""Ehe. Looks like it's time for a greeting of 'Haven't seen you for fifteenhundred years!' or something like that."For Godou and Doni, the battle against this wind god only felt like it tookplace two months earlier.However, since the masked war god had continued to exist fromfifth-century Gaul all the way to now, this could definitely be described as areunion 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. Ayoung girl appeared deftly from behind the wind god. She looked abouttwelve 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 akinto that of a pure-black gemstone.She was dressed in a simple white robe of Greek style. The staff held inher 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 whohad passed away in Japan several months earlier."Nay. One is not Athena."The silver-haired beauty murmured haughtily. Even her tone of voice wasindistinguishable from that of the goddess."Tis meet for thee to address one as Pallas Athena, mine enemy of illfate."Part/"Twas said that the Witch Queen formerly existing in these lands wascalled Guinevere. One hath succeeded her legacy to become the presentgeneration 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 rathersurprising result. One did not expect to encounter mine enemy of ill fatethis soon.""Ill fate?"Divine Ancestors were not supposed to retain memories from theirprevious 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 theEnd'? Shouldn't you bear a resentful grudge against the 'King of theEnd'!?""Verily indeed... Nevertheless, such is the existence known as the DivineAncestor."Even when faced with Godou's accusatory questioning, Athena still smiledhaughtily at him."Dost thou know? Those known as Divine Ancestors all came about as theend state of mother earth goddesses whose lives were taken by the swordof salvation... Having lost their lives to the divine sword, goddesses of theearth then reincarnate into Divine Ancestors, worshiping as their lord theking 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 shiftedslightly 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 theeast."There were currently two Campiones present.However, Pallas Athena ignored the frivolous Italian young man, onlystaring intently at Kusanagi Godou alone. The fighting spirit, nobility andpride 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 openedhis mouth —However, the masked war god took an extremely rapid step towards Doniin tiiis instant. It was almost akin to a declaration of "One shall be thyopponent!"Doni smiled happily as he looked at the war god while keeping his silentgaze on his opponent.Ignoring the minor disturbance, Pallas Athena smiled mysteriously."When reincarnating upon the earth, Divine Ancestors shall lose thememories from their past lives... as a deities. One is no exception. Be thatas 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. Asmuch as awakening the weary hero is one's mission, here existeth ill fatewherein 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 wasundoubtedly revived as a subordinate under the "King of the End."Nevertheless, even after becoming a Divine Ancestor, that goddess's corenature and soul most likely remained unchanged."It's the opposite. I'm the one who's going to defeat you. That's thepromise. 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 ofcircumstances between us.""Understood. That is to say, bonds of ill fate hath formed between thee andoneself, transcending life and death. 'Tis meet to interpret so, mayhap?— In that case, one shall inquire of you, godslayer. Pray tell, what thineappellation mayeth be?""Remember this well. I am Kusanagi Godou."Godou answered the Divine Ancestor who bore the proud face of the wargoddess.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 othergodslayer present hither. As one connected to the Devil King-slaying hero.Divine Ancestor Pallas Athena hereby issueth a declaration of war to thetwo 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 casethat had been slung on his shoulder all this time, taking out the longswordhidden within. This was preparation for battle."I never thought that right when I start investigating the 'King of the End,' I'drun into his subordinates. Let me accept this challenge gratefully. Show meyour 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 theauthority of the magic sword, he intended to slice everything into two.In response, the god known as the Wind King suddenly manifested a greatblade in his right hand.Using this blade, the masked war god redirected Doni's slash. A wisemove, considering that an attempt to block would likely result in his bodygetting sliced through together with the great blade. This also made onefact clear.The "Wind King" still remembered Salvatore Doni's magic sword."How amazing. I can't believe you still remember an opponent you fought athousand 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 thanabandoning the fight, he was entering his stance for the sword of mentalnothingness. Using this undisciplined standing posture, Doni unleashed anupwards slash!Confronted with the magic sword, slicing diagonally from below, the "WindKing" 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 matterwhat, he swung his sword completely naturally.This was precisely the true value possessed by the sword of mentalnothingness.Consequently, Doni continued to show a cheerful expression on his facewhile swinging the magic sword, intending to cut the "Wind King" from theleft flank up to the chest, severing the right shoulder completely.But at the very last moment, the "Wind King" blocked Doni's magic swordwith his left arm.Clang! The sound of steel striking steel. Indeed, hidden behind the maskand the strips of cloth wrapping the entire body, he or possibly she was ahybrid 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 waydeep.Godou had witnessed the same battle situation in ancient Gaul one and ahalf millennia earlier. But this time, the "Wind King" instantly used his righthand 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 inthe form of countless metal fragments.If the enemy was using a body possessing the hardness of steel, evenordinary punches and kicks could serve as substitutes for sure-kill movesfrom a sacred sword. In a certain sense, this manner of counterattackinggreatly befitted the war gods of steel, the embodiments of swords andblades."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 Swordswas not only a master of swordsmanship but also martial arts techniquesacross 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 SalvatoreDoni. This was evident from those movements.Having both lost their weapons, the two opponents faced off, maintaining aseparation of several meters.Doni was in an unguarded state with his back arched mildly, both armslowered.However, this sword guru of a man was capable of transforming myriadmartial techniques into powerful assets. Hence, he was even more scarywhen without a stance.Hence, the "Wind King" clenched his right fist and turned his right handtowards Doni.This was a stance that seemed to use the fist like a sword. Was the godtrying to exhibit martial arts such as unarmed fighting or boxing — ?The instant just as the two martial artists were about to start an unarmedbattle..."Time to desist, 'Wind King.' Naturally, thy splendorous valor is the trumpcard capable of defeating everything... But at this time, there are otherheroes who ought to be introduced to the godslayers."Orders issued by Pallas Athena. The "Wind King" immediately lowered hisfist.In the next instant, the hybrid god of wind and steel transformed into awhirlwind, his figure disappearing. Seeing him retreat so simply, Godounodded instead."I see now... If that guy is the only bodyguard, then there aren't enoughopponents for us."Pallas Athena wasa Divine Ancestor and at the same time, also the WitchQueen in possession of transcendental powers.But she probably did not wield sufficient power capable of rivaling gods orCampiones. 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 snakeswere to be released, thereby recovering a mother earth goddess's divinity.However, that was a trump card that could only be used in exchange forone's life.Logically, it was not something that could be used recklessly. That said, ifshe really did possess Athena's soul, then under conditions when it wasnecessary, she would surely take on a serpentine or draconic form withouthesitation...In any case, now was not the time yet. Feeling certain of that, Godou said:"Where are the guys you want us to meet?""Hahahahal 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 verydangerous!" To distance himself from Pallas Athena, he sprinted at fullspeed.Immediately, dozens of arrows descended where Godou had beenstanding previously!Taking a sideways glance at the great number of arrows embedded in theground, Godou had escaped disaster by the slimmest of margins.Furthermore, the other Campione was also taking strange action at thesame time."Ohoh!?"Suddenly startled, Doni swiftly jumped backwards.He moved as though he were evading someone's attack. But there was noone in front of Doni — no wait, the blond Campione was still continuing tododge left and right, repeatedly evading someone's attacks.His evasive movements looked like he was fighting an unseen enemy anddodging incoming attacks.Still, Godou understood quite well that Salvatore Doni was a user of themind's eye, capable of seeing through divine speed. Instinctively, Godoufelt that Doni was probably using this skill right now.Doni's attacker was a user of divine speed — impossible for ordinary peopleto 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 sortof pole-shaped weapon."Use this!""Haha, thanks!"Godou instantly called out to him. Smiling, Doni extended his right armtowards Godou.Godou clicked his tongue, quite displeased that Doni could understandwhat he meant without the need for explanations, when clearly they werenot on intimate terms at all.But right now, there was no leisure for grumbling. Instead, Godousummoned:"Ama no Murakumo! Fight alongside tliat guy for now!"'Affirmative!'Accepting orders, the divine sword residing in Kusanagi Godou's right arm,Ama no IVIurakumo 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 Japanesesword. However, the blade itself was exuding an jet-black and mysteriousaura of calamity."Since I have this, there's nothing to be afraid of!"With both hands, Doni adjusted and firmed his grip on the reinforcementsGodou 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 showdownagainst the "Wind King."Ama no Murakumo had splendidly blocked the pole-shaped weaponbelonging 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 noless 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 wasindeed the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, Sun Wukong. Over his yellowbattle outfit was leather-crafted gear consisting of gauntlets, greaves and abreastplate.Laughing merrily, this [Heretic God] was supposed to have perished on theplains 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 atNaples. Furthermore, Godou clearly remembered the rider sitting astridethe winged horse —"Hohohoho. How embarrassing. For a formerly dead body to return soshamelessly 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 thatgave no impression of cowardice despite its exquisite beauty and a headof lustrous, blond, wavy hair. These were two characteristics both belongto Perseus.During summer last year at Naples, Godou had fought a deadly battleagainst this ancient Roman hero.Speaking of which, Godou seemed to recall someone mentioningsomething 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 magicsword. 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 timeago.Glancing sideways at him, Perseus ordered his steed to flap its wings indescent, finally landing on the left side of Pallas Athena.Hence, the Great Sage Equaling Heaven also jumped back from Doni andlanded 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 colormixture belonged to that of an alloy of iron and gold."As the supreme sword god, the 'King of the End' possesseth the authorityto turn his perished kin into his own weapons — substituting for bows andarrows, substituting for swords."To think that he possessed that kind of authority in addition to the DivineSword of Salvation.Not only Godou but also Doni was staring speechlessly at the object in theWitch Queen's hand. On the medallion of iron and gold, threesword-shaped emblems were carved on its surface."This [Arrowhead's Discus] is precisely the vessel for storing the authoritiesof summoned sword gods. Fufufu, this treasure, passed down in secretbetween successive generations of Witch Queens, one shall now makeuse of it."Confronted with the happily smiling Pallas Athena, Godou gasped.Speaking of which, he recalled someone telling him to "beware of theking's arrowhead." Probably because of that, he had started feeling asense 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 nohelping it.What exactly was it? Just as he was feeling doubtful, Godou noticedsomething. By the time he noticed, the sky had filled with thundercloudsand 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 sametime.The jet-black divine sword disappeared from Doni's hand, manifesting inGodou's right hand instead. Instantly, Godou lifted the divine swordtowards the sky while invoking the [Bull] at the same time, Verethragna'sfifth incarnation.This incarnation of unparalleled monstrous might was only usable whenfacing opponents surpassing human strength.Naturally, there was no problem this time.Descending rapidly witli liglitning speed, tine enemy was a flying knightcharging through the sky. The opponent's energy and penetrative powereasily satisfied the [Bull]'s conditions. Using the incarnation's monstrousstrength, Godou raised Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi over his head.This was to block the lance thrust from the female knight descending fromthe heavens."Yahhhhhhhhhhhhh!""What wondrous joy to encounter you again, Kusanagi Godou! The man ofthis knight's destiny!"Accompanied by lightning, the knight charging at the ground was a beautywith a head of gorgeous hair the color of honey.Her short, sleek, soft hair felt refreshing. One with her steed, descendingfrom the sky, she was clad in chain mail, armed with a barbed cavalrylance.This very lance was thrust with the momentum and intention of piercingGodou's forehead with its tip.Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was able to block the attack by relying onthe [Bull]'s monstrous strength. The instant the jet-black blade and thelance 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 visionindeed.""Since things have gotten to this point already, I was thinking you'd surelyrevive as well."Saved for the moment at least, Godou panted as he replied.Sitting astride the flying white horse, the female knight was Lancelot duLac, of course."Well then. How now? Mine enemy of ill fate, Kusanagi Godou. And theother godslayer."Now with even the Amazonian queen under her command as well, PallasAthena announced sonorously:"Together with these war gods, the 'Wind King' also standeth by in one'sfaction. For a declaration of war against the present generation ofgodslayers, such combat potential would be considered quite sufficient,yes?""Oh my. Definitely quite sufficient. So sufficient that I almost want to thankyou."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. Thiswas 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 othergodslayers. Anon, one shall head thither to the farthest ends of the east toundertake the revival ritual for the 'King of the End.' Defeat one before theritual'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 vanquishmine enemy of ill fate first or to rouse one's master the hero. Then onehath 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 awandering goddess who willfully acted as she pleased, a ship steeringaccording to the wind, a being who moved forward according to whim andfancy.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 alsoidentical 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 flightmagic. As expected, surrounded by light, the gods instantly rose up intothe air, flying towards the eastern sky.Indeed. Towards the land where the "King of the End" still slumbered — thedirection where the islands of Japan lay.Parts"...That's what happened. This is the full story of Kusanagi-san's trip toSardinia."Amakasu reported the situation using his smartphone.Receiving the report from Tokyo's Chiyoda ward was Sayanomiya Kaoru, amember of the History Compilation Committee's core leadership."What a grand display. Gathering all the strong foes from the past, it'salmost 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 ofgreat Devil Kings like Kusanagi-san, the heroes of justice and the formergoddess 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'svoice coming from the telephone did not carry her usual cheerfulness."Anyway, the current plan is to meet up with Kusanagi-san and Erica-sanat the Pisa airport then return to Japan with everyone else. Althoughoriginally, I was planning to enjoy a week's holiday.""What a stylish thing to say when you're on a business trip funded bypublic money. Nothing less expected of you, Amakasu-san.""Not at all. Getting proper rest for the body and mind during a heavyworkload is a product of professional awareness."Ending the heartwarming conversation with his direct superior, Amakasuhung up.He was currently in the ancient castle hotel's lobby.Mariya Yuri, Hikari, Seishuuin Ena and Liliana were also present. Everyonewas 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 abouttracking down Salvatore Doni. Likewise for the reappearance of oldenemies."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 sincearriving at this lobby, the Mariya family's eldest daughter had remainedsilent with a blank expression.As her childhood friend, the Hime-Miko of the Sword took her time beforeasking:"Yuri, could it be that you saw something?""...Perhaps, I suppose one could say that. However, I cannot fathom at allwhat significance it might actually hold. That is why I am uncertain whetherI 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 HisMajesty's experiences, right? Whatever you saw, it's okay, just tell Enafirst!""Rather than seeing something, actually, it consists of nothing more than afew ambiguous words surfacing in my mind.""Words?""Yes. This is the content: 'An evil dragon in the sea. The dragonsummoned wind and clouds to blot the sky and sun. Lightning flashed toilluminate 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 feltperplexed.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 vaguelyreminiscent from somewhere —For some unknown reason, that was the impression garnered.References1 . t Sorcerer(3^Plj|^ ): note that the word "sorcery" is used in theCampione! universe to refer to evil magic. Hence, all sorcerers are evilby definition.AfterwordHello everyone, it's been a while. This is Takedzuki Jou.This time's Volume 16 is the second short story collection after Volume 8...Oh well, rather than short stories, it would be more accurate to say thatthese two volumes are mostly composed of mid-length stories.Compared to short stories, I actually like mid-length pieces more because Ican add in all sorts of things.This preference of mine has been thoroughly expressed.Also, this time's Appearance of Devil King and Knight, Roman Holiday,Late Night Edition, A Set of Three...? and Extra Story: The Illustrious Sage,True Lord Eriang are the short stories printed in the booklets included withthe first edition bonus materials of Volumes 1 to 7 of the anime DVDs andBlu-Rays. Also, The Imprisoned Campione and The Rumored Campioneare works published in the specials corner of the Super Dash Bunkowebsite.The mid-length story at the end. The Stirring of Heroes, takes place afterthe events of Volume 15.In fact, this Volume 16 was originally meant to be a complete collection ofall the short and mid-length stories I've written in various places, to bepublished together with newly written content.After finishing the work for Volume 15, I gathered up my stockpile ofmanuscripts..."Eh? This content alone is enough to fill up an entire book's worth ofpages!?"That was the truth I discovered.Hence, apart from the pages of newly written content, this volume endedup being published as a chronological collection of little stories dating fromthe spring when Kusanagi Godou became a Campione all the way untilautumn....Speaking of which, every month in 2012, I was writing stories for theanime bonuses.As a result, my stockpile of manuscripts yet to be collected in volumes hadapparently accumulated far more than I imagined (sweat drop).Also, apart from miscellaneous edits, no extra content has been added topreviously released works.The only exception is Appearance of Devil King and Knight which servedas the bonus story for the anime's first volume, where roughly ten pages ofcontent was added.But rather than adding new content, the story simply reverted to the stateof its initial draft.This happened because back when I first submitted the intial draft to amember of staff who helped out in all sorts of affairs on the animeproduction side, I was asked the following: Too many pages, could youreduce the number a bit? That caused me to speculate: "Oh, it's probablybecause the story will be recorded in the bonus booklet, so there's notenough space."Hence, several months later, I submitted a new version with ten pages ofmaterial cut out.Then a sample of the anime's first volume was delivered into my hands.When I saw the booklet where the bonus story was published, I thought:"There should be enough space on paper of this size. Just add one moreline of text onto each page and the initial draft would have fit!"So I proceeded to negotiate with the editor in charge."There's no need to be concerned about the page count issue for theremaining bonus stories, right? After all, depending on editing, adjustmentsare possible."Several months earlier, the editor in charge was still talking about pagecount restrictions but this time, he agreed readily....I hope it wasn't because of a recent conversation about how "the originalauthor was burdened with additional work in order to clean up after theaccidental mess caused by a certain editor..." (wry smile).In any case, having obtained the freedom to decide the page count, Iindulged my preference for mid-length pieces over short stories, thussplitting the Extra Story: The Illustrious Sage, True Lord Eriang into fourseparate releases.Thanks to that, my earlier idea of "Kusanagi Godou vs True Lord Eriang"finally took form.Oh my, since there are battle scenes in the plot, a page count restrictionwould really have posed a problem.Well then. Included last in this volume, The Stirring of Heroes is thepostscript episode taking place after Volume 15's ending, while being thenext volume's prelude at the same time.As for Volume 17's title, I'm thinking it'll probably be "The Hero's Name."If possible, I hope everyone can be patient for a little while.

Chapter 7 - The Stirring of HeroesPart 1Who could have expected a time traveling journey that would leave themstranded for almost two months?After experiencing a great commotion in ancient Gaul, Kusanagi Godouand his companions finally returned to the modern era.The "corridor" leading to the past era was located in the Casentino area onthe east end of Italy's central region of Tuscany. This was a zone of lushvegetation, designated as a national park.The time tunnel's entrance was situated in a flourishing forest in a corner ofthis region.Upon returning to the modern era, the sun happened to be rising in theeastern sky. The forest was thickly covered with accumulated snow. Thesnow's pure whiteness was even brighter and more vivid than the trees'greenery.The sunlight of dawn illuminated this part of the world with a rosy shade ofcolor —After admiring this landscape of fantasy from afar, the group started tomake their way towards human settlement.The group consisted of Kusanagi Godou, Salvatore Doni, Madame Aisha,Erica Blandelli, Mariya Yuri, Liliana Kranjcar and Seishuuin Ena."The world on this side really is more convenient after all."After a brief break at the hotel, Godou was muttering to himself.Before going on the journey to the past, Doni had gathered the knights ofItaly at this ancient castle hotel.The interiors, fitted with heating, were quite warm whereas hot runningwater came readily from taps. Showering facilities as well. Not only wasthere coffee to drink, but also pizza to eat.The hotel had been converted from an ancient castle dating back to theMiddle Ages. In contrast to its antique appearance, the hotel was filled witha sense of comfort."Yeah, it feels like I've finally come home."After a refreshing shower, Doni was sitting in the hotel's bar, taking largeswigs of beer and ravenously wolfing down three slices of pizza.On the other hand, Godou was hoping to return to his home country asquickly as possible to have some Japanese food.But due to various reasons, he had decided to stay at this hotel for now."Sorry, Godou-san, for my sake, you have to deliberately...""That's not something you need to apologize for. Besides, there's plenty oftime since we're still in the middle of the post-exam break. Mariya, youshould get some proper rest."That was what Godou had said to Yuri who had suddenly fallen ill with afever after returning from the past.The fever's cause was probably not due to a flu but from the fatigueaccumulated during the long journey. Furthermore, Yuri's state of healthwas already unstable before setting off from Japan. She would feelexhausted and dizzy in crowded places — Those were the symptomspresented by her current physiological state. It would be best to take morecare.There were other reasons for Godou's return to be delayed."Fufufufu. Somehow, I find myself quite happy to be in the modern eratoo!"This woman, smiling innocently, was also part of the reason.Namely, Madame Aisha who was currently smiling radiantly, sitting on thesofa in the hotel lobby.Finally removing her ancient attire, she had changed into a navy-blueknitted ensemble with a long white skirt.Dressed in this manner, the Madame was flanked by a scowling womanand a young man with a cautious expression, both sitting beside her.The ponytailed female Paladino was Saint Raffaello and Doni's master.The other was Paolo Blandelli, Erica's paternal uncle."Good grief, how could you say that so casually? You've no idea how muchtrouble we had to go through.""Madame, while making your stay in the local area, please do not hesitateto inform me or my association, the [Copper Black Cross], should you haveany requests. I, Paolo Blandelli, intend to serve provisionally as your knightto fulfill your every bidding.""My! Erica-san's uncle is truly quite the gentleman!"The Madame was quite touched by Paolo's respectful offer.However, rather than a show of chivalry, this should be considered a ployto stay by a dangerous character's side for monitoring purposes.In fact, the same idea had occurred to Godou after sensing the Madame'sintention to take up accommodations at this hotel.(I should stay here for now to monitor her.)Et cetera. At least while the post-exam break lasted.Before setting off from Japan, Godou and the other students had sat thethird term's examinations at Jounan Academy where they were studying.After that, they had used the post-exam break to make the long trip fromJapan to Italy.Meanwhile, at a hidden position out of Madame Aisha's sight, severalpeople were having a secret conversation."Will the people in this hotel be fine? Is there not quite a substantial risk forthem to be charmed by Madame Aisha's authority?""Well, this place is run by the [Capital of Lilies] to begin with after all."While looking at the happily smiling Madame Aisha from a distance, Lilianaand Erica were whispering to each other.As a side note, the [Capital of Lilies] was the magic associationheadquartered in the ancient city of Florence in Tuscany."In fact, the majority of employees are equipped with knowledge of magic.I've also heard that they have already used magic to protect their brainsand minds beforehand as a precaution... Well, only to the extent that onecould feel slightly relieved.""Even Ena and you were also affected by Aisha-san's authority once."Resonating strongly with heartfelt emotion, Ena agreed with Erica'sopinion.In any case, this trip had turned into a great expedition lasting almost twomonths. Nevertheless, upon returning to the modern era, they discoveredthat the calendar had merely advanced to the second day.In the end, Godou and company had returned the next morning after thedeparting day."1 suppose I should say: as expected of a journey through time. Trulyabsurd to an excessive degree."Liliana's astonished murmurs were understandable.The current guests at this ancient castle hotel in Tuscany not only includedSaint Raffaello and Paolo but also Doni's butler, Andrea Rivera.When Godou's group first returned to the hotel, Rivera had been outhandling matters.But upon returning, he was reunited with his foolish master."Come, Salvatore Doni. I'm sure you've fully prepared yourself to be sunkinto the Mariana Trench together with a thirty-thousand-ton tanker.Perhaps now is the perfect opportunity to exile you from the surface worldforever. Let's have a good discussion regarding this issue."Dragging the neck of the whole commotion's principal culprit, Riveradragged the man into another room...In addition, these were not the only people present to welcome Godou andthe other's return."Onii-sama! As well as Onee-chan and everyone else, thank goodness thatyou've all returned safe and sound!""We flew here from Japan after hearing about the emergency situation.Looks like the problem has already been resolved while we were on ourway, that's really wonderful."During the afternoon after their return, two Japanese had arrived at thehotel.Yuri's younger sister, Hikari, and tlie History Compilation Committee'sspecial agent, Amakasu Touma. Upon hearing that "Japan's Campioneand his entourage are on a time traveling journey!?", Amakasu hadimmediately hurried to Italy. Furthermore, Hikari had also expressed herwish to come along."Although my original intention was to assist in Onii-sama's return, it endedup turning into a free trip to Italy."After explaining the situation, Hikari added mischievously.The Mariya family's second daughter was only twelve years old but wasalready a Hime-Miko in training. Presumably, that was precisely why herrequest to be sent on this mission was approved. Godou expressed histhanks from the bottom of his heart."It's the thought that counts. I'm sorry for making you come all the wayhere.""Oh right. Although this doesn't count as a congratulations gift, I do have apresent for you, Onii-sama. I'll give it to you later!"It was difficult to imagine someone so considerate and thoughtful was onlyjust a sixth grader. Hikari smiled cheerfully while she spoke.As a side note, the unexpected welcoming committee did not just includeJapanese people. An hour after Hikari and Amakasu arrived, an Americanwoman suddenly appeared in the hotel lobby."It's been a while, Kusanagi Godou.""Annie-san!"A missed friend, Annie Charlton.She was the collaborator of Los Angeles' Devil King, John Pluto Smith.The cool beauty was dressed for midwinter in a trenchcoat and gray pants,matched by her short, fiery-red hair.A dozen minutes or so later, Godou was sitting opposite Annie in thehotel's lounge.Two steaming cups of espresso were placed on the table between them."Apparently, you've been doing as you please in fifth-century Gaul.""If I had to describe it, I was tlie one restraining tine willful and recklessDoni and Aisha-san..."Godou raised mild objections against her sardonic remark.However, Annie Charlton scoffed and said coldly:"At 'Plutarch's Residence' in the Astral Plane... Smith heard from the oldman who lives there. Reportedly, a certain Kusanagi Godou was buildinghis harem in the land of ancient Gaul, enjoying a life of pleasuresurrounded by numerous beauties.""Th-They only gathered around me on their own without my consent,okay!"Godou's group had made the Roman colonial city of Colonia Aggripinatheir final base of operations.Out of excessive and unnecessary care, local bigshots had continually sentmany beauties over to Kusanagi Godou — the man wielding the mostinfluence and martial power in the region.Back then, Kusanagi Godou's status in Colonia Aggripina was akin to thatof a feudal lord.To think she would know about the journey to the past, she truly lived up toher name as Smith's collaborator. Moreover, Annie's purpose for cominghere was to retrieve the magic gun that had served as a trump card duringthe battle in Gaul.Indeed. John Pluto Smith had entrusted his weapon to Liliana during thatjourney.After returning the magic gun to her, Godou changed the subject."Oh right, what happened to history in that era after we returned? Did thatwhatever residence's old guy say anything else to Smith?""Nothing in particular that bears mentioning. Speaking of which, this isbasically it."Annie responded fluently to Godou's sudden questioning.True to the image of a "capable woman," the cool beauty was intelligentand highly competent."Didn't history remain unchanged, broadly speaking? This is all thanks tohistory's corrective force and your side's devoted efforts.""In that case, that Uldin guy also got killed by the 'King of the End'...Right?"Uldin was the ancient Campione whom Godou had met in ancient Gaul.Muttering Uldin's name, Godou began to ponder. Excessively strong,stubborn, a man who seemed unkillable. A warrior among warriors, abarbaric and crafty Devil King.Although impossible to imagine, did that man still lose to the "King of theEnd" ultimately?As though trying to dispel the heavy atmosphere, Godou brought his cup ofespresso to his lips. Annie did the same. At this moment, Godou realizedthat there ought to be other things to talk about."Oh right, Annie-san. Thank you very much."Although still seated, Godou bowed his head deeply."Sorry for troubling you to come all the way over to Italy from America toretrieve the gun. I should be the one paying a visit to Los Angeles instead.""Pay it no mind. I happen to be passing by anyway."Annie shrugged and accepted his apology generously."Due to my — our conflict against the [King of Flies] organization. Smith andI have not left Los Angeles for a long time already. Hence, I wanted to goon a sightseeing trip as a long-awaited break, arriving here with intentionsto tour Europe. Visiting this place did not require me to go out of my way.""Even so, you're still doing a big favor. I'm really thankful to you."The [King of Flies] sorcerer^^^ organization led by Asherah had alsoappeared before at Nikkou's Toushouguu.Godou had heard that they had been John Pluto Smith's mortal enemies inrecent years.Godou wondered if the care and concern expressed by the cool beautystemmed from her worried feelings or from her natural personality.In any case, Godou's gratitude towards her remained unclianged.Tlianking once again, Godou continued witli a smile:"Also, please pass this message to Smith: Thank you for your care. I willrepay the favor one day. I'll pay you a visit once I find the free time.'""After hearing such words, he will surely reply with the following."Asked to deliver a message, Annie responded by imitating Smith's tone ofvoice:'"Understood. In that case, you should prepare as rich a return gift as youcan. I won't accept any complaints about the interest being too high so Ihope you prepare yourself for that — ' Presumably, a reply along suchlines."Annie's facial expression remained stiff, serious to a fault as always.Nevertheless, she had changed her tone of voice to mimic the maskedgodslayer's speech of subtle pretension.This unexpected playfulness brought a smile to Godou's lips.Finally, Annie finished her espresso in one breath then quickly left thehotel."By the way, Aisha-san, can I ask you a few questions?""Sure, what would you like to ask, Doni-san?"After spending four hours in a friendly conversation with the loyal butlerthen escaping, the young Devil King was sitting side by side with theadorable female Devil King (age indeterminate) whose appearancesuggested teenage at most.The location was the bar in a corner of the hotel.Salvatore Doni and Madame Aisha were currently sitting at the bartogether."So, Aisha-san, since you spend long periods traveling everywhere, youshould be quite knowledgeable in a broad range of things, right?""Not at all. You are too kind. My level of knowledge is really nothingspecial... Fufufufu. So, what would you like to ask about, Doni-san?"Despite her modest attitude, Madame Aislia's expression sliowed tliat sinewas greatly pleased by his praise.She smiled back innocently at Doni who was taking a gulp of whiskey.Placed before her was a glass of fresh orange juice.Meanwhile, two knights were currently sitting at a table in a corner of thebar, staring at the two Devil Kings.Erica and Liliana. Without drawing attention, they were warily monitoringthe movements of these two super dangerous characters."Basically, the King of the End' we met earlier in ancient Gaul. Have youseen that god in other time periods? Or heard things about him?""No, there's nothing... Oh wait, however."Just as she was answering, the Madame revealed an expression of deepthought."During my travels in China during the Tang Dynasty, I once heard about a'hero manifesting in the latter days of decadence' who, in his quest topursue godslaying Rakshasha kings, headed to the farthest ends of theorient — the nation of Japan. Hearsay of that sort. Yes, I remember that itwas a great monk at Chang'an who accidentally leaked the rumor.""I see I see."Saying that, Doni nodded in acknowledgement of the Madame's reply.Perking up their ears to listen to this conversation. Erica and Lilianaexchanged looks to communicate.Salvatore Doni was a Devil King who would dance with a lighter in apowder keg with total nonchalance as long as it satisfied his desires.Furthermore, he had always been searching for great and formidable foes.To think a man like him was collecting information on the "King of theEnd"...Most likely, he was unable to forgot the power exhibited by the hero he hadwitnessed in ancient Gaul.Of course, this was undoubtedly an ominous sign. Even though the timetraveling incident had come to a conclusion, the dangerous emberssurrounding the various Devil Kings were already gradually set aflame.Part 2"Eh, what happened to Amakasu-san?"After seeing Annie off, Godou visited the IVIariya sisters' room.Inside the room were three people: Yuri who was lying in bed due to herfever, her little sister Hikari at the bedside taking care of her, as well asSeishuuin Ena sitting casually on a chair.However, there were no signs of Amakasu Touma. Godou had expectedhim to be present."Could he have gone outside to ski or something?"Godou brought up the first possibility that came to mind. Abundant snowhad fallen just earlier in the lush Casentino forest and the surroundingmountain range. Currently, the outside world was a realm of silver.In that case, skiing would seem like something attractive to try out as oneof many winter sports.Well, given Amakasu's laziness and indoor preference, Godou wasdoubtful that he would actually choose this type of sport.Nevertheless, the answer waiting for Godou was even more unexpectedthan skiing."Oh, Amakasu-san said he's visiting the hotel's beauty parlor."Ena's carefree answer surprised Godou."That guy went to the beauty parlor!?""Yes, Amakasu-san mentioned that he must get an oil massage no matterwhat."Leaning her back against a cushion, Yuri sat up and provided additionalexplanation. Godou was reassured to find her more energetic thanexpected.Furthermore, sitting by her elder sister's side, Hikari smiled."Saying that he needed to recover from the damage from sitting rigidly inthe plane and the fatigue from driving all the way here from the airport ofFlorence, he ran over to make an appointment.""Now that you mention it, 1 guess it's not tliat usual for a man to befrequenting that kind of place."Rather than beauty treatment, Amakasu's aim was for relaxation.Last time at Cape Inubou, Amakasu had also enjoyed all kinds ofmassages fully. Perhaps spending time in those types of places was hishobby. Godou understood."Well, it's no big deal anyway."Smiling happily, Ena reached towards the bedside.Placed there was a plate of apple slices, arranged neatly in rows. Picking apiece and popping it in her mouth, Ena continued:"This time, the ninja's job is already being done by those people in Italy. Healso said this is a pleasure trip.""He's always busy and rushing everywhere after all.""By the way, Onii-sama, I have something to report!"Hikari suddenly smiled at the nodding Godou."I've already decided to enroll in Jounan Academy's middle school divisionstarting this coming spring.""In fact, Hikari already took the entrance exam last month... and passedsuccessfully. Consequently, she will become our junior starting April.Please look after her, Godou-san."After reporting energetically, Yuri bowed her head deeply while sitting onthe bed.Godou went "eh" and felt impressed. The school where he and the otherswere studying, Jounan Private Academy, required passing entrance examsto enter the middle school because it was not a public school."This is really something worth celebrating, but are you really okay with ourschool?""Yes, not only Onee-chan but Onii-chan and the other Onee-samas arealso there. But apart from that, there's still one more thing to report. It's thepresent I mentioned earlier.""Oh yeah, isn't that what you told me when you first arrived?""Although there's a couple of days left so it's a bit early, I'm not sure if I'llbe able to see you on the actual day, so I'm giving it to you now inadvance. Please accept this!"Hikari had taken out a square box from her bag. It was wrapped verybeautifully. A slender box. It even had a cute ribbon wrapped around it.What was this? Smiling, Hikari explained to Godou in his puzzlement."Yes, Valentine's Day will be arriving soon, Onii-sama!""...Oh right, I see now."It probably contained chocolate inside. Figuring out the hidden contents,Godou smiled wryly.Due to spending the past two months in early fifth-century Gaul, he hadlost all calendar sense completely. However, calendars in the modern erawere clearly displaying a date in early February."Also, since we go to different schools, it's quite true that we might not seeeach other on the actual day."Speaking of which, it was still undecided whether they were going to returnhome before February 14 or not.In light of that, even if Hikari gave her present a few days early, there wasprobably nothing wrong with that.Godou gratefully accepted the wrapped box, smiling at the sixth graderwho had given the present and could not help but stroke her head. If he didthat to his own younger sister, she would express her displeasure bysaying "Don't treat me like a child!" However, Hikari simply responded witha happy and radiant smile.As a side note, the older sister, Yuri, had shock written all over her face.Ena was also making an expression of great surprise."S-Speaking of which, I have totally forgotten about this day...""Ena paid zero attention to tlie calendar on tiiis side. So it's Valentine'sDay, huh? Ena has heard rumors before. It seems like it's a day for givingchocolate...""So, I guess I'll have to start thinking of a present for White Day andcongratulating you on getting in our school."Deciding that a return gift was definitely required for Hikari's show of care,Godou muttered."Hikari, is there anything you want?""Nothing in particular. But if I'm allowed to be 'indulged' — I want to go outwith you to have fun, Onii-sama! Like amusement parks, theme parks oraquariums.""Eh? Together with me?"Although he wanted to fulfill this request as much as possible, Godouhesitated.Taking a girl out to leisure spots made him feel a bit embarrassed. Unableto agree readily, he found it difficult to answer. Of course, this did not countas a date. After all, she was a girl whose age made her like a little sister.Nevertheless, Godou really felt embarrassed about spending time alonewith a girl, just the two of them —Seeing Godou searching for an answer, Hikari instantly said:"Please, Onii-sama. You must take me, my Onee-chan, Ena-neesama,Erica-neesama and Liliana-neesama together somewhere to have fun!""Oh, I have to bring everyone along as well!?""Yes, of course!"Being the only man in a group of girls, it still felt embarrassing. However,Godou believed that rejecting this request would be unseemly as an elder,so he smiled wryly and said with generosity:"Sure, let's do that. Then we'll plan a schedule after returning to Japan.""Really? I'm so happy!""When the day comes, I'll make sure you're treated as the main guest,Hikari.""Fufufu. Please don't go out of your way, treating me the same as usual isfine."While conversing with the upfront Hikari, Godou felt quite unbelievable.Listening to the conversation that had just taken place before her eyes,Yuri was looking at her younger sister in utter surprise. Ena also looked asthough she were whispering something like "Hikari really is amazing. She'sgot a bright future ahead.""Mariya Hikari's potential really cannot be underestimated..."After hearing about what transpired, Liliana commented with heartfeltemotion.It was the second day after they had returned to the modern era. Going outby car, three girls had traveled to a town named Poppi, not far from theancient castle hotel where they were staying. The time was currently stillmorning.Seishuuin Ena was accompanying Mariya Yuri whose fever had subsided.Currently, the trio was shopping at a supermarket. That said, being locatedin a rural European town, the shop was no different from a Japaneseconvenience store in scale. The selection of goods was not very complete.Currently, the girls were browsing the goods offered in the confectionerycorner of this kind of shop.As expected, the shop did not offer the same abundant variety thatJapanese stores would have during this occasion. Even so, Liliana stillpondered in concentration while murmuring:"Prioritizing the rescue of Kusanagi Godou while simultaneously taking intothe account the possibility that he would survive through his own power,even going as far as to prepare chocolate in her luggage beforehand. Shemust have calculated that this would leave him the strongest impression inthe event that she is able to hand him the present during the stay in Italy...""D-Do Hikari's considerations go that far?""Although probably not to the extent of a wily female fox like Erica whocalculates everything, she should have considered the possibility of thatoutcome, hence preparing for it. That is what I feel. Also, the return gift isanother matter that must not be overlooked."The silver-haired knight spoke next to Hikari's older sister, Yuri."Also, there is combining the chocolate's return gift with the enrollmentcelebration. Despite a wish to have a date with Kusanagi Godou alone,she deliberately requested to take us along. This approach makes it easierto obtain Kusanagi Godou's consent and also minimizes the backlashrelative to other methods.""By backlash, what you mean is... Coming from Ena and the rest of you?""Yes.""Ena isn't going to reprimand Hikari for something of this level... Well, butperhaps Ena definitely would feel a bit jealous."Commenting with slight surprise, Ena added. Liliana nodded."In any case, this is how things are. Using the incident known as 'givingchocolate,' Mariya Hikari has won a small victory. However, she is quitecareful, or rather, I should say that she is subconsciously avoiding anexcessive victory. Instead, by sharing happiness together with us all, she isprobably aiming to avoid causing friction.""Indeed, that may possibly be one facet of Hikari's."Yuri murmured as though appraising her younger sister's personality."Very early on, she was already a child skilled in expressing her opinionwithout causing dissent in the surrounding people. Occasionally, I wouldfeel quite envious of that...""Strategy... No, a keen sense in savoir-vivre.""Perhaps this isn't a bad thing. Say, given what His Majesty is like, moregirls will continue to gather around him in the future, right? If a girl likeHikari is present, harmony and compromise can result in all sorts of things.There's that thing called human relations, right?"Hearing Ena's philosophical outlook of resignation, Yuri and Liliana noddedin agreement.The person in the center of their circle was someone who possessed thetalent of "increasing the number of intimate partners without consciousintent." Even though he had the kind of personality that treated bothgenders equally, at the same time, he also had the kind of destiny thatcaused him to cross paths with women quite frequently —"In any case, many issues exist in the current situation."Liliana shrugged lightly as though summing up."The spot beside him will be yielded to Mariya Hikari for today.""Hikari is going to take a walk with His Majesty, just the two of them, right?""Ah yes. Hikari had Godou-san indulge her wish to go sightseeing in thetown, so they went together.""Well, I could have found some random reason to go along, but it is betterto read the mood a little in times like these.""Ena and you two also need to buy chocolate first.""I am so sorry.."The three girls conversed while selecting the goods they wanted to buyrespectively. After checking out and paying, they left the supermarket.As a land filled with natural scenery, this area consisted of ruralsettlements, of course. No modernized buildings were built. Compared tobuildings constructed from steel-reinforced concrete, brick structures werefar more common.The atmosphere of ancient European towns was everywhere.Furthermore, the thick volume of accumulated snow everywhere wasalmost like a makeup layer of white winter. Yet despite this kind ofsnowscape, the sky was cloudless for miles around.Ignoring the possibility of sinking into the deep snow, this could beconsidered perfect weather for a walk in a certain sense.Even making a quick and casual round in the vicinity would be filled withfun for Japanese people from the Far East."Oh, by the way, Erica-san seems to be monitoring King Salvatore at themoment, right?"Walking in the lead, Ena asked."Yes. After a discussion with Sir Andrea and Erica's uncle, they assembledan emergency force to keep Sir Salvatore under surveillance. Of course,this should be enough to handle him if only he were a normal person."Liliana's explanation was mixed with sighing."However, Sir Salvatore is no normal person. This is theheadache-inducing part...""Well, Ena also knows clearly that King Salvatore is very curious aboutthings related to the 'King of the End.' That god seems to be outrageouslystrong.""The king manifesting at era's end — "Hearing Ena murmur that name, Yuri suddenly whispered."Just as I mentioned before, I cannot see that god's true name at all... Bethat as it may, there is a kind of ambiguous feeling.""You actually saw something? As expected of Yuri!""If I had to describe the extent... It really is just a kind of ambiguous feeling.Perhaps the key to elucidating that god's origins exists as an unexpectedform in Japan — located in our surroundings."Mariya Yuri was an outstanding user of spirit vision.Her capability in this area was perhaps the highest pinnacle in the world.Feeling deeply interested, Ena and Liliana listened to this hint revealed bythe beautiful Hime-Miko.PartsGodou and Hikari were visiting a town named Poppi, a rural commune thatwas quite small in area.Its population numbered six or seven thousand at most. However, the townreportedly had fairly antique origins, tracing all the way back to ancientRoman times. Furthermore, this was where a castle and its associatedcastle town had been built by feudal lords ruling the area during the MiddleAges.streets from the Middle Ages were still preserved in this little town'shistoric zone.Chapels, churches, the aforementioned castle town and other buildingsdating back to that era were still standing.These ancient streets were now adorned by a layer of snow like makeup. Asimple stroll through this place was enough to evoke a sense of foreignexotic atmosphere that could not be experienced in Japan.One could say it was definitely worth touring on foot while enduring thechilling cold."Say, isn't it time for a cup of hot coffee?""Then let's find a place to have lunch, Onii-sama!"They had been strolling casually on the snow-covered streets for an hourand a half already.As a result, Godou's body was already frozen stiff. It was probably thesame for Hikari too.That being said, the young girl who suggested lunch still looked quitecheerful in voice and demeanor. She looked like she was quite enjoyingthings. As a side note, the two of them were fully prepared with wintergear. Godou was wearing a soft jacket made of polyester for winter sportsuse, while Hikari was dressed in a white duffle coat.In addition, they were wearing knitted caps and mittens while Hikari evenhad a scarf wrapped around her neck."If only there's something like a restaurant here."Walking with Hikari, Godou muttered.In fact, he had visited this town before.That was during March last year when Erica accompanied him to trackdown the mysterious divine beast lurking in Casentino. Uldin's dragonsfrom fifth-century Gaul had also made appearances here.Nevertheless, the visit last time was extremely brief and thus had notoffered Godou much of a chance to get to know the town.Consequently, they had no choice but to continue their journey whilelooking around."Come to think of it, Shizuka sent me a text message."Due to being accompanied by a young girl, Godou suddenly rememberedabout his younger sister.The text message was received this morning before they headed out fromthe hotel."It was sent by Onii-sama's sister?""Yeah, because she's a sharp-tongued girl, the message was filled withranting and griping. Oh well, I guess it's my fault after all for leaving homewithout saying anything."Unlike the younger sister in the Mariya family, the Kusanagi household'syounger sister had a personality that was a bit excessively strict.Smiling wryly at this thought, Godou began to recall the contents of the textmessage where sentences like "Where the heck did you run off randomlyto, idiot Onii-chan!" substituted for seasonal greetings.That said, her words were filled with harsh reprimand for the older brotherwho had left without notice."She wrote a few things that made me quite curious. For example, shementioned a chance encounter with the boy from the Christmasparty— Stuff like that.""The boy at the Christmas party — Speaking of which, that's probablyLu-san from Hong Kong."Lu Yinghua was the only boy attending the Christmas party who matchedthe description.Nodding at Hikari who had easily guessed the answer, Godou remarkedwith heartfelt feeling."I hope Shizuka didn't cause any trouble for Yinghua... Last time, she evensaid something weird by accident."Godou remembered her commenting that Lu Yinghua had an underlingflavor to him despite his arrogant demeanor.Moreover, Shizuka was born with a personality like a bossy older sister's.A female member of the Kusanagi family who was destined to follow thefootsteps of the mother with her natural vocation of queen —Although it was already too late, Godou still prayed for his surrogatenephew who had terrible luck when it came to women.On the other hand, while walking beside Godou, Hikari was moreconcerned with another issue."I still haven't gotten to know Shizuka-san and Lu-san very well. Next time Isee them, I'll try my best to become better friends with them!""Eh? There's no need to devote so much effort into that.""No no, as someone who serves by your side, Onii-sama, thesesentiments are much obliged. Furthermore, I try hard in these areaspartially for Onee-chan's sake — ""I believe that it's necessary for us, the Mariya sisters, to have goodrelations with your family, Onii-sama. We sisters will continue to be in yourcare, Onii-sama^"As always, Hikari acted with such care and consideration that it wasimpossible to believe that she was still a young girl only in six grade.But at the same time, Godou found it quite interesting.The elder sister, Yuri, was a pure and noble young lady, quite detachedfrom the mundane world, for better or worse. In contrast, Hikari was quiteadept in handling worldly affairs with pertinence.In terms of personality, there was nothing similar about these two sisters.But perhaps this was precisely why they formed a combination thatsustained balance —"Hmm?"Godou and Hikari were currently walking along a main street.Ten-odd meters ahead was a familiar young man, featuring a head ofblond hair and a tall build, roughly 185cm in height. A face displayingfrivolity and lack of discipline — Salvatore Doni.Dressed in a gray coat, he had a slender, cylindrical case slung on hisshoulder.Doni could be seen approaching a light van that was parked on theroadside. Without warning, he opened the door and sat inside.Then the engine started immediately. The light van began to move quickly."Where's that guy planning to go...?"Godou felt intrigued. Earlier, he had received Liliana's report.The reckless troublemaker was apparently quite interested in the "King ofthe End."That was what the female knight, akin to Kusanagi Godou's grandchamberlain, had reported.'Of course, the King of the End is a divinity that has lain dormant for almosta thousand years. A being whose true identity remains unknown despitethe Divine Ancestors' search efforts over the ages. It is essentiallyimpossible for him to revive from something on the level of Sir Salvatore'sminor commotions... But just to be safe, it is still necessary to keep SirSalvatore under surveillance for now.'And among various influential people including Andrea Rivera, PaoloBlandelli and Saint Raffaello, agreement was apparently unanimous. Theywere all familiar with and understood clearly the truth that Campiones werea troublesome race, always ignoring probabilities somehow, easilyovercoming odds ofGodou hesitated as he watched the light van's departure.Should he intervene "just in case"? But Madame Aisha was also someonewho needed to be kept on priority surveillance. Which side was moreimportant?"Th-The person just now was Sir Salvatore, right?"Noticing Godou's gaze, Hikari also looked at the light van."I've heard that he is your dear friend and fated rival too!""Who the heck is feeding such a rubbish and totally wrong profile to you!?""l-lt's wrong? Last night when I encountered Sir Salvatore by chance andgreeted him, that's what he said himself — "Hearing Hikari's explanation, Godou felt his strength draining away.Under those circumstances, the sixth grader had done nothing wrong inoffering polite greetings on their first encounter, even when the other partywas the world-renowned Campione. The senior who introduced himselftotally erroneously was the one to blame."I knew it, I must chase after that idiot...!"After Godou made his decision out of instantaneous anger rather thanrational thought..."Godou, perfect timing for you to be here!""...Erica!?"Godou was surprised to be called by a gallant and beautiful voice.The voice came from the vehicle lane. Godou turned his gaze to see afemale rider approaching them on a mid-sized motorcycle, then stoppingher vehicle on the roadside.The motorcycle's paint job was a vivid shade of bright red whereas theleather suit was pitch black.A rossonero combination of red and black. The female rider took off herhelmet, revealing Erica's beautiful face and head of blonde hair."I'm currently following Sir Salvatore who has left this town, thinking itwould be terrible if anything were to happen. Want to come along?""Yeah. Letting him run wild is too worrying!"Godou instantly replied then looked at Hikari. The young Hime-Miko intraining nodded immediately in response.Godou's intention was for her to return to the hotel first on her own, havingheard that she already had experience traveling overseas many timesalready despite being only twelve years old. More importantly, she wasquite a clever girl. Godou did not worry.Hence, Godou immediately climbed on to sit behind Erica, resulting in twopeople riding astride the motorcycle."Please hold on, Onii-sama! Please take this!"Just as Erica was about to start the engine, Hikari quickly ran over.Swiftly untying the scarf on her neck, she wrapped it tightly aroundGodou's neck instead.Freezing-cold wind was currently blowing in the first place. Riding amotorcycle in such conditions would mean exposing the entire body toextremely strong, chilling wind.Hikari was probably offering her scarf to Godou because she was worryingabout this fact."Thanks. Let's go. Erica!"Expressing his gratitude for the young girl's care, Godou reached hishands behind his waist.He supported his weight by gripping the handle at the back of the seat.This was a horizontal bar for increasing safety for tandem riders.The blonde partner instantly twisted the accelerator, causing the bright redmotorcycle to start moving.She raised the speed all at once. Within the blink of an eye, the motorcyclehad sped off, leaving Hikari behind.The motorcycle was able to move without hindrance because theaccumulated snow had already been cleared from the roads.Furthermore, traffic was quite low in volume. The motorcycle was currentlytrailing Salvatore Doni's light van by several hundred meters.Godou was quite impressed with Erica's outstanding driving skills."You sure can ride well, not just horses but also this kind of thing!""Yes. During the Great Sage Equaling Heaven incident, I felt there was aneed for this, so I started learning a lot subsequently. I'm now totallydifferent from back then!"Carrying two passengers, Godou and Erica, the mid-sized motorcyclesliced through the powerful wind, propelled by its 400cc engine.To avoid getting drowned out by tlie noise of tlie wind, tiiey liad to raisetlieir voices in order to converse. Just now, Erica was referring to tlie timewlien sine liad driven a four-wlieeled automobile during tlie Great SageEqualing Heaven incident, not a two-wheeled motorcycle.Still, sitting behind the young Italian girl, Godou could understand.Definitely quite different from before. Last time, Erica was skillfullycontrolling a car as a driver for the first time(!), using only her inborn talentand sense for driving.However, back then, she clearly knew nothing about matters such as trafficregulations and driving techniques.But this time. Erica not only controlled the mid-sized motorcycle withgraceful motions but also did it without causing any trouble for thesurrounding vehicles in motion.Erica was driving the motorcycle smoothly along the flow of traffic.Completely stable and safe driving.What she meant by learning a lot was probably knowledge and experienceof driving on ordinary roads."Nothing less expected of Erica Blandelli — Godou, you could praise me likethat, you know?""That's true. Even though you're always so busy, you still managed to learnsuch amazing skills. Although only half a year has passed since that time, Ican't believe you've already obtained a driving license that's also usable inItaly!""Huh, what license?""...Hey Erica.""Speaking of which, the matter of obtaining a driving license needs to bepostponed.""You're actually driving without a license!? I take back what I said!""Why does it even matter? There are no problems at all with my drivingknowledge and vehicle control. Suppose a situation does arise where adriving license is needed, I also have magic to take care of things."Erica replied, completely unremorseful.In those circumstances, she was probably intending to use hypnosis magicto bewitch police personnel. Still maintaining a magnificent driving postureflawlessly, the [Copper Black Cross]'s premier knight was staring sharply atthe light van that was traveling ahead.As always. Erica's respect for common sense values was quite weak."Anyway, that's enough of that, Godou! Please hold on tight!""Then there's no helping it... Don't lose that idiot's trail!""Yes, you can count on me!"Slicing through the winter season's chilling wind, the motorcycle spedalong at seventy to eighty kilometers per hour —Naturally, this meant getting frozen solid all over for the duration of thejourney. Hence, feeling the scarf around his neck, Godou felt very gratefulto Hikari.Part 4Doni's light van traveled west, cruising along Tuscany's state highways.The light van traversed mountainous areas near mountain pass roads toreach Florence's provincial roads, then arriving in the vicinity of theprovincial capital. But instead of entering the city of Florence, theycontinued westward.Using provincial roads, Doni's contingent reached the Italian peninsula'swestern coast."Godou, why don't we stop nearby for a late lunch?"Driving the mid-sized motorcycle. Erica had been maintaining a certaindistance in their pursuit of Doni's light van, persisting for the past hour anda half or so.But as soon as they arrived in the outskirts of Florence, she quicklydecelerated and stopped her vehicle by the side of the road.The light van they had been following soon departed into the distance.Since it stood to reason that Erica could not have made such anelementary blunder, Godou asked with certainty:"Another tracking team is taking over liere?""Yes, indeed. In fact, we are not tine only ones tailing Sir Salvatore. Twoother teams had also departed Casentino and are currently tracking him aswell. Furthermore, I was supposed to pass the job along to other membersof the [Copper Black Cross] near Florence in the first place.""Just as I figured."When experts in this area undertook tailing operations, it was natural tosplit into multiple teams.Godou had heard about these arrangements before. Members of theItalian faction had apparently made flawless plans in this regard.Nevertheless, the blonde female knight frowned."Actually, using magic would be the best method of tracking... But becauseSir Salvatore's senses are rather sharp, using magic would probably riskgetting discovered by him instead."As a side note, Godou was told that Doni had left his usual cellphone in hisroom before setting off.Hence, it was not possible to confirm his location using various meanssuch as call records or GPS. Eschewing gadgets like phones despite livingin the modern era, he probably intended to go off the grid, out of contact."Next, we'll see if the organization picking up Sir Salvatore has any meansof getting past our side — ""Those guys are Doni's subordinates?""I doubt it. All the staff under his name have been commanded by hisbutler. Sir Andrea, to withdraw from the region of Tuscany. There shouldn'tbe anyone in that faction who's foolish enough to defy the strict order of theKing's Butler.""Then that means the idiot has summoned secret subordinates that evenAndrea-san doesn't know...""That's probably right if you look at it that way."Starting the motorcycle again. Erica drove towards the city of Florence.Soon, she discovered an appropriate cliurcli and parked tine motorcycle intine adjoining car park, not for tlie sake of siglitseeing but to visit a nearbyrestaurant.Finally, they had a chance to sit down and start enjoying a late lunch."Where does that guy Doni want to go?""He presumably intends to leave Tuscany. Going along that road whichfollows the Arno River, he will reach Pisa."The Arno River.Godou remembered Erica mentioning before that it was a great river thatcrossed Tuscany from east to west.In addition, he had also heard of the other name."Pisa is the city that's known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, right?""Yes. There's also the Univeristy of Pisa where Galileo Galilei studied aswell as an airport. Rushing from Pisa, a thirty-minute drive is all it takes toreach Livorno — a harbor city facing the Ligurian Sea.""A port at an airport, huh."In other words, a gateway to sea and air travel.Sitting in the restaurant, listening to Erica's deductions at the table, Godouremarked quietly.As a side note, they were discussing while having various food includingchickpeas salad, cylindrical pasta mixed with lamb sauce, bistecca,Florentine mixed stew, unsalted bread unique to Tuscany, etc.Just as they were almost done eating and having an after-meal coffee...Erica's cellphone sounded briefly to indicate receiving a message.Glancing at the LCD screen, the communication device's owner shruggedlightly."Some unfortunate news. The tracking teams' valiant efforts have ended infailure with the target apparently lost. The people Sir Salvatore called overseem to be quite experienced in this kind of job."The report presumably arrived via the text message. Erica sighed."Since Sir Salvatore is cliasing after sliadow of tine 'King of tine End,' iiisdestinations are limited. However, it's still quite difficult to narrow down aparticular location without any clues. What should we do?"Seeing Erica in deep thought, Godou suddenly remembered.Before setting off for ancient Gaul, Godou had found out about Doni'sunexpected connections. That man really did have old acquaintanceswhom he could trust to carry out secret tasks —This time, it was Godou's turn to take out his cellphone.Using this tool which he had put aside and ignored throughout his timetraveling journey, Godou tried dialing a number, a task he had not done forquite some time.On the fifth ring, the international call connected.'It's been quite a while, Honored Uncle. I've already heard news of yourreturn from Madame Aisha's cave. It's wonderful that you are safe andsound.'"Well, many things did happen."The receiver of the call was the young master and leading subordinate inHong Kong's Lu family.He trained in martial arts under the instruction of Kusanagi Godou's "swornelder sister" Luo Cuilian as her one and only direct disciple. Consequently,he revered Godou as his master's younger brother, considered an uncle byoriental social hierarchy..."How's life lately? Things going well?"'Yeah, thanks to you. Honored Uncle, my days are going smoothly. Theonly task I have remaining for today is to get a good night's rest.'"Huh? It should be roughly ten o'clock over there for you, right? Isn't it a bitearly for bed?"Italy was separated from Japan by a time difference of eight hours. Theclock hands on Godou's side were currently pointing at two in theafternoon, which meant that the time over in Japan could hardly be calledlate night. Godou was quite surprised.For a fourteen-year-old youth's bedtime, wasn't it a bit too early?'If there's nothing special to do, I will sleep as early as possible. That'sbecause I have to do morning training before dawn every morning.'"That's getting up a bit... No, quite early."'Although people are always surprised to find out, this is the truth indeed.'A young leader from a criminal organization based in Hong Kong. If onewere to judge purely from a description of this kind of character, theimpression given would be someone who often stayed up late andindulged in night life instead. And taking it a step further, Lu Yinghua alsolived in Shinjuku's Kabukichou, one of Japan's top entertainment andred-light districts.However, Lu Yinghua explained in a calm tone of voice:'Included in Luo Cuilian's martial arts is an exercise involving "thecultivation of internal skills while worshiping the rising sun of dawn."Starting from the age of three, every morning, I was forced — no, asked — totrain in this, so I ended up acquiring this habit unwittingly, that of risingfrom bed as early as eighty-year-old geezers.'"Ah... So Nee-san is the cause as well."'She described it as absorbing the cleanest and purest solar energies soas to augment internal skills.'Another confession reminiscent of the harsh childhood he had endured.Internal skills. Godou currently knew this was what the Japanese calledkikou and known to westerners as breathing exercise or spirit cultivation.Having started his training by Luo Cuilian's side under her tutelage fromearly childhood, Lu Yinghua had consequently acquired various negativeassets such as misogyny, a sadistic attitude towards beautiful femalefighters, as well as professional cooking skills despite his young age offourteen..."By the way, you met my younger sister Shizuka earlier, right?"'So you have heard, Honored Uncle? Yeah, I ran into her by chance a fewdays ago in Shinjuku.'"...She didn't cause you any trouble, did she?"Sensing slight anxiety in tine prideful surrogate nepliew's tone of voice,Godou asked as a test just in case, in response, Lu Yingliua answeredwitli a sliglit sigli.'No trouble worth mentioning. However, well, she truly does have acapacity for boldness as befits her position as Honored Uncle'ssister — That's basically what I felt keenly.'"How should I say this? I'm really sorry."'It's nothing, don't worry about it. She really didn't cause me any trouble atall. Also—""Also?"'I've been inspired slightly to resolve myself to escape the next time I seeher.'"I see. If you ever notice her trying to say anything, don't think and just runaway immediately. Even as her elder brother, I believe that's the wisestchoice."'Understood. Also, is there anything you'd like me to do for you. HonoredUncle?'As expected of Yinghua. He instantly figured out that the main subject hadnot been broached yet."Actually, something a bit troublesome has come up over here in Italy."Godou briefly summarized Salvatore Doni's worrying movements, finallyadding:"So last time, you mentioned it, right? You've got friends in Chinatown overhere who does dirty work for that idiot Doni. I have a feeling that thosepeople are involved in this incident too."This was something that he had heard Yinghua mention before the trip toancient Gaul.'I do remember such a conversation. Well then, I'll go get some informationfrom those people.'"You don't need to do that. Just tell me how to contact those people. Wecan handle that side of things."Hearing Godou's response, Lu Yinghua laughed malevolently.'Haha. Indeed, it'll be faster and easier if your side does it, Honored Uncle.I understand the particulars now.'After hanging up, several minutes passed.Godou's cellphone then received a message. Naturally, the sender was LuYinghua. Godou showed the address, telephone number and otherinformation on the LCD screen to Erica.Hence, the blonde beauty known as the Diavolo Rosso smiledmalevolently in a manner as befitted her title."So it's my turn next, eh? Fufu, leave it to me. Given the mighty name ofKusanagi Godou and the eloquent tongue of Erica Blandelli, ten minutesare enough for this sort of thing."In actual fact, eight minutes was sufficient.Calling herself the delegate of Japan's Campione and successfullycontacting the shady organization called the [King's Company] and basedin the Chinatown of the ancient capital, Rome, Erica quickly obtained thenecessary information from the company's representative through verbalmeans.Using the names of Godou and the [Copper Black Cross] as threats, shealso placated the other party with sweet words at the same time.Still the same as always, what an outstanding negotiator she was."Since we've clarified Sir Salvatore's approximate destination, let's trysome fancy tricks, shall we?""Fancy tricks?""Yes. Let's play a slight trick so that we can catch up to Sir Salvatore."Godou's cellphone was currently placed on the table in the restaurant.Pointing at his cellphone. Erica suggested in a delighted tone of voice:"Hey Godou, I have someone else I'd like to contact."Hence, several hours passed. The sun was almost setting completely.Night was just about to start.Godou and Erica's location liad sliifted away from tine region of Tuscany incentral Italy to somewhere else all of a sudden. Taking a flight from Pisa'sAeroporto Galileo Galilei, the two of them had flown for roughly an hour inthe southwestern direction, crossing the Mediterranean Sea to reach theisland of Sardinia — Italy's westernmost autonomous region.Even as an island, Sardinia was only slightly larger than Shikoku, thesmallest and least populous of Japan's four main islands.Whether for Godou or Erica, this island was where everything had started.Exiting the airport at the island's regional capital, Cagliari, Godou and Ericafollowed the guides (Caucasian men with scary-looking faces who wereclearly not "reputable" people despite their neat-looking black suits) whowere waiting for them. The pair was then led to be seated in a white BMW.Their destination was a luxury hotel in the city of Cagliari.Then they arrived before two men who were chatting cheerfully at arestaurant inside the hotel.Godou recognized both men.One was a blond and handsome man with a frivolous face, Salvatore Doni.The other was an obese old man. He was dressed gallantly in a high-classcustom-tailored suit, puffing on a thick cigar, displaying dignified solemnityas befitted the mafia —His public identity was the boss of the Sicilian mafia that made theirstronghold on the island of Sicily.Secretly, he was the commander-in-chief of the magic association[Panormus]. Walter Zamparini."Ohoh, Kusanagi Godou! Sir Salvatore and I are waiting for you together!""Jeez... Godou, you're such a bad man too."Zamparini's eyes shone while he was welcoming Godou. On the otherhand, Doni shrugged."I can't believe you ordered this old guy to capture my friends at the airport.You even asked him to pass along that whatever 'wait for me until I catchup' message.""It's your fault for leaving without your cellphone."After giving Doni a terrifying glare, Godou continued:"Oh well, even if you kept your phone, you can still cut off contact byswitching the power off.""Hahahaha, not like it matters. Even if I'm out of touch for a month or two,Andrea can get along fine on his own.""That's the kind of 'so-what' attitude from the man who fled fromAndrea-san's side."At this moment, the hotel attendant walked over to the table and pulled outa chair for Erica.The blonde beauty sat down swiftly and naturally.Godou took his seat in the remaining chair. Thus, dinner was ready tostart.As a side note. Erica had already changed and was now wearing a short,red, one-piece dress with a black cardigan of lace."Uncle Zamparini, I'm so sorry for causing you trouble.""Don't worry, Blandelli. I wouldn't want to miss this rare chance to meetKusanagi Godou again after so long either. I must thank Sir Salvatore forbeing so understanding and willing to accompany these old bones of minefor a chat."Old Man Zamparini smiled proudly and took a puff of his cigar.The Campione of Swords had made his way to Sardinia with assistancefrom the [King's Company].After learning of this fact. Erica had advised Godou to contact Zamparini.Godou proceeded to do so and made his request: "I hope you can catchDoni's contingent at the Cagliari airport, prevent them from leaving andpass to Salvatore Doni my intention to have a chat between Campionestonight."Added as a final note was permission to resort to violence if necessary.Hence, this immensely wealthy old man and Sicilian mafia boss had takenhis Cessna private jet, spending merely an hour to hurry from Sicily over toSardinia. Tlien arriving at tlie airport before Doni's group, lie liad fulfilledGodou's request magnificently.Naturally, the same request had been made of the magi in Sardinia.Nevertheless, few possessed the courage capable of opposing Doni, whostood as Italy's Devil King, to force the idiot into "having a chat nearby."Hence, that was why Erica had named Zamparini of Sicily as thecandidate.She had nominated the most broadminded man of influence who livedrelatively close to Sardinia.In the past, this old man had also provided support during the battleagainst the divine king, Melqart. Although he had Godou backing him, itwas no less of an accomplishment for him to have fulfilled Godou'sexpectations splendidly —"Oh well, since Godou already found out my destination, I knew someonewas going to catch up eventually.""You really came to this island to see her — Lucretia-san?"Godou brought up a nostalgic name.Lucretia Zola. Also known as the Witch of Sardinia. At one point, she hadbeen a researcher who had joined Divine Ancestor Guinevere to seek theidentity of the "King of the End.""Completely correct. I heard from somewhere before that she's the personin Italy who knows the most details about the 'King of the End' and the wargods of the past and present, east and west."Despite being a fool to the core, every now and then when dealing withimportant matters, Doni would display competence that one must notoverlook.Doni winked while exhibiting this familiar special skill."The war god we met in ancient Gaul is still sleeping somewhere on theEarth, right? It should be quite fun to wake up him up for a bit, or at leastsome hints could be found. That's what I'm thinking.""You can't wake up that kind of dangerous god, not even for a bit, okay!?"Scolding Doni for his idiotic nonsense, Godou tlien muttered:"Besides, even England's Gascoigne spent many years and still couldn'tfigure out the guy's true identity. An investigation of your level will surelyfail, right?""How will I know if I don't try...? Oh yeah, would you like a drink?""The legal drinking age in Japan is twenty.""But look, isn't Erica Blandelli drinking right now?""W-When did you start...""I'm already sixteen, Godou, which is an age allowed to drink in Italy. HeyGodou, doing as the Romans do is only polite, isn't it?""In that case, let us prepare some drinks for Your Highness. — ^You there,bring us everything."Apart from Godou, the other three were chatting amiably with a wine glassin one hand each.Furthermore, Zamparini had summoned the bartender, pointed at the firstpage of the wine list — a selection filled solely with expensive wines — andrecklessly ordered "bring us everything."Seeing that, Godou instantly cried out:"How can I finish this much!? No wait, I wasn't planning on drinking asingle drop in the first place!""Don't be so rigid and conservative. Let us drink to our hearts' contenttonight!"Calmly ignoring the Campione's refusal, Zamparini even laughed boldlyand cheerfully.He was an old man with outstanding courage indeed. In excellent spirits,Zamparini downed his glass of red wine in one breath."Ohoh, that reminds me. Kusanagi Godou, I have a granddaughter whojust turned two.""A granddaughter? She must be very cute."Of course, Godou had never seen this granddaughter of Old ManZamparini's.But in the grandfather's eyes, surely she must be cuter than anyone else inthe world. Taking commonplace preconceptions into account, Godouexpressed agreement matter-of-factly."Hehe, excellent judgment. Your Highness. Yes indeed, it is as you say, itwould not be an exaggeration to call my granddaughter a peerlessbeauty... So, what are your thoughts?""What do you mean by that?""In other words, will you accept her as your lover? Kusanagi Godou, I havealso heard that you choose to have many beauties serving by your side,thus building a splendid harem. Hohoho, as expected of the promisingyoung Campione whom I, Zamparini, hold in high regard. Now that is trulya Devil King's style of magnificence!""H-Hold on. That's a misunderstanding!""You are too modest. In my view as the grandfather, my granddaughter isdefinitely a beauty worthy of serving you. Please do consider it!""Come on, you can't actually tell if a two-year-old baby is a beauty or not!"Met with a reunion with this old man from Sicily whom Godou had not seenfor so long, the night gradually grew late amidst a lively atmosphere.PartsDespite insistent urging from the host, Godou finished his dinner withoutdrinking a single drop of alcohol.Although Erica had drunk many glasses of wine, she did not show anysigns of drunkenness.Meanwhile, the two adult men, Salvatore Doni and Zamparini, keptopening vast numbers of bottles with hearty splendor. In this manner, thebanquet held in the restaurant came to an end."Since the person he's going to see is Lucretia-san, I guess it should beokay 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 waslocated. Hence, Godou decided to gratefully accept the old man's kindoffer.The next day's plans involved keeping Doni under supervision and headingover to visit Lucretia's residence."Since he waited until now to find Lucretia-san for information, then I guesshe really doesn't know anything about the 'King of the End.' Looks like it'sokay 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 ofSwords had secretly obtained important information from ancient Gaulabout the "King of the End." Furthermore, using this knowledge, he wasvery likely planning to reawaken the Devil King-slaying hero in the modernera.But standing next to Godou, Erica was frowning with an expression ofdeep 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? Ibelieve that chances are not entirely zero for Sir Salvatore to suddenlycome across important information regarding the 'King of the End' purelyby 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 seeLucretia-san again after such a long time.""I phoned her just now but she seems quite reluctant. She said she doesn'twant you two to come.""Why!?""Isn't it perfectly natural? It's no exaggeration to call it a disaster whenCampiones are trying to visit your home. Rather, it's something to beavoided 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 thetypical Campiones," a heaven-sent child of disaster. Yes, it could not behelped that there are areas contributing to this image but come on, at leastdon't lump me together with Doni —That was how Godou wanted to retort but there were more importantthings 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 haddried her wet hair with a towel then started walking around in the room inthis unguarded state.Since Erica was wearing nothing except for a white bathrobe, the lines ofher 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 weirdstate of mind? Godou agonized in his mind.Unaware of his internal thoughts. Erica sat down on the bed, crossing herlegs.She even went as far as to openly display her beautiful legs of pristinewhite.Feeling his heart pounding uncontrollably, Godou turned his gaze awayagain.However, he also noticed a certain detail. Erica was sitting on one of thebeds 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 alsothe 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 arrangedfor this room. Didn't we sleep in the same room last time when we werestaying overnight at his mansion?""His original intention was to book a suite that even had Monaco royaltymaking 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 highschool student..."That being said, the current room was also plenty spacious but at least itwas 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 themhad already survived numerous battles together, becoming comrades whoknew each other's temperament thoroughly. Moreover, they were specialpartners 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 sortof 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 apartfrom me already, haven't you? Isn't it time for you to grow accustomed tothis sort of thing?""Any objections?""None... I guess.""Very well. Now that's my Godou. His Majesty the Devil King whose bestialdesires cannot be satiated by me, Erica Blandelli, alone, but mustrepeatedly extend his poisonous fangs towards other girls."Erica sat down beside him. Now the two of them were sitting shoulder toshoulder on the bed."Although you've already surprised me many times, Godou... This is stillthe most surprising thing. Despite clearly being a blockhead who has noidea how to get along with girls, you somehow end up causing Yuri, Lilyand 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 'Youalways fail to understand my feelings — ' But that would run contrary to mystyle, Erica Blandelli's. It's already too late to say that sort of thing. It wouldbe undignified. Although I am definitely a slightly vainglorious woman,perhaps this type of personality ends up the worse off during times likethese."Naturally, Kusanagi Godou had no right to complain even if he werestabbed by the girls faction, with Erica first and foremost. Apart fromlistening 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 himon 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 eversay that you wish to escape me — escape our feelings.""Erica...""If you would promise me that, I could turn a blind eye to your deplorablebehavior. How about that?"Godou did not answer the girl who had expressed her feelings in such acalm and resigned manner.Instead, he drew his face close and sealed Erica's lips with his own. Ericaaccepted him without resisting. Although the two of them had engaged inpassionate kissing many times in tine past, tiiey did not covet eacli otiier'slips or entangle their tongues together this time.Simply pressing their lips together, they kissed quietly.Nevertheless, the emotions involved were perhaps even more powerfulthan 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 noddedslightly stiffly.She picked up a slender slab-shaped object, peeling off the wrappingpaper 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 herteeth. Roughly one third of the slab remained on her lips. Furthermore, outof all everyone Godou knew, the most gorgeous and beautiful maiden wasdrawing 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 theslab-shaped chocolate to Godou via mouth-to-mouth. In addition, heraction 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'smouth, even going as far as to lick Godou's tongue thoroughly togetherwith 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 chocolatetogether.Using the tips of tlieir tongues, tiiey began to pusli tlie cliocolate around.IVIoving from Godou's moutii into Erica's mouth then back to Godou'smouth again. Stirred by their tongues and saliva, the chocolate graduallymelted, staining their lips.Godou thoroughly savored the flavor while licking the sweetness in Erica'smouth.Likewise, Erica moved her tongue and lips, licking the sweetness inGodou's mouth. It was only natural that their lips would get stained bychocolate, but together with its taste, they licked each other clean with theirtongues.In the end, it took the two of them wholly three minutes or so to finish thepiece of chocolate."Hey Godou.... How about... we eat a bit more...?"Hearing Erica whispering softly before his eyes, Godou felt incomparablyexcited inside."Fufufufu. Although I am aware that it is customary for Japanese girls topresent gifts of chocolate to boys this time of the year, I originally had nointention of giving you any. This sort thing fails to interest me. But afterhearing that Hikari had already succeeded in giving you chocolate, Ichanged my mind."The young beauty, always radiant with intellect, was now showing a smilefull of bliss before his eyes.This was proof that she had entrusted her heart to Godou and heightenedhis desire to shower Erica with tender affection."Although Hikari is a cute junior, it would be a taint to the name of EricaBlandelli 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 anearby shop.Nevertheless, Godou experienced a mind-numbing feeling after savoringthat taste. Erica was probably feeling the same way. Gazing into eachother'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 insuppressing himself any further.Besides, the two of them were sitting on a bed to begin with. Driven withpassion, Godou pushed Erica down on her back. As a result, her bathrobefell open, revealing the valley between her breasts."Godou...!"Pushed down. Erica cradled Godou's neck in her arms, hugging himtightly.Godou not only felt her body's warmth but also the heavy and elasticsensations of her breasts, pressed tightly against his body, causing hisexcitement to soar even further.Immediately, Godou took her lips. In turn, Erica accepted Godou'sintensely passionate kiss.As a result, locked in mutual embrace in this manner, the pair repeatedlypressed their lips together in ecstatic fervor, sucking on each other'smouth, caressing tongue against tongue lovingly again and again.Exchanging light bites on the earlobes, they even sucked on each other'sneck.In this manner, the two of them repeated such behavior nonstop for five orsix minutes —Finally, Godou pushed his body up.Separating from Erica's body, he interrupted the embrace. Rather thanrecovering sanity, it would be better described as a feeling of unstoppablemomentum. Honestly speaking, he definitely felt inclined to embrace Ericaand 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 soadorable that they were irresistible. Be that as it may, if he were to acceptthem 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 stillremained smiling.It was the same smile of bliss that he had seen earlier. Noticing Godou'spuzzled 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 turnis 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 continuedto announce malevolently:"It's because you won't accept my willful demands, that's why. Whenclearly I hope with sincerity to deepen our relationship, Godou, to make mybody and soul yours."IIII"I won't be satisfied unless you agree to this level of compensation.""l-lf I sleep together with you, I might not be able to hold back!""When that happens, please dispense with your worrying, go ahead andwhisper 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 — utterlyshocked, he was unable to raise further objections.Parte"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 communityalmost on the same scale as the town of Poppi that Godou and Erica hadvisited 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 sittingcasually on the living room sofa.As a side note, although they had spent the previous night at Cagliari, thatcity was actually quite far from Oliena. Even traveling by car would takesubstantial time. Consequently, Zamparini had rented a helicopter(!) tosend Godou, Erica and Doni here.Moreover, saying he had things to do, the old man had returned to Sicilyearly in the morning..."Truly what a disaster for the world, to think that another Campione afterPrince Alec has appeared to track down the hero king's trail. Oh well, sinceyou 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 torefuse...""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 Wke that. I just want you to tell methe 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 greatestriddle. I am unable to respond to your demand. Sir Salvatore."Despite calling Godou "young man," Lucretia used polite speech towardsDoni. Nevertheless, her lethargic gaze clearly displayed her regretfulsentiments towards the foolish king.As a side note, the two who were listening to the conversation from theside, Godou and Erica, remained silent throughout.Rather than a wish to avoid getting involved blindly, it would be better tosay that they found oral intervention to be troublesome too."1 see. Then if there's any summarized info on the 'King of the End' orsomething 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 manypeople are getting yanked around!?""Hey now, Godou. Asking someone for a favor over the phone is very poormanners.""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 offimmediately. 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 sameas always, in terms of flawlessly concealing the hidden agenda behind hisfoolish behavior. In any case, the purpose of visiting Lucretia's residencewas 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 theliving room's entrance.Despite arriving merely twenty minutes ago, he was already taking hisleave. Whether in personality or behavior, this was very typical of the Kingof 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 asingle word.This was probably out of deference to her position as a knight in front oftwo Campiones. However, Erica did not intend to act reserved the wholetime. Before coming here, the Diavolo Rosso had already madepreparations.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 oppositedirection — making his way to the depths of the residence.He took leisurely steps as though heading to the washroom. But as soonas 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 leftwith Miss Erica before my eyes before returning on your own. To have aprivate conversation with me.""...Now that you mention it, that really did happen."Prompted by Lucretia, Godou remembered it too.Last time, tliere was a need to tall< in Erica Blandelli's absence. But tiiistime, lie was meeting Lucretia face to face under Erica's arrangements.Godou would never liave expected tliis cliange in circumstances witiiinless than a year's worth of time.Godou smiled wryly. This would have been totally unthinkable back whenhe made his first visit to Italy.Furthermore, his relationship with Erica even developed to the currentstate —Godou recalled the scene this morning. Stuck in a predicament where hehad no choice but to share beds with Erica, he was naturally quite troubledand 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 dignifiedface was as adorable as a sleeping angel's. For a moment, he watched inmesmerization. But due to sensing Godou's movements, Erica alsoawakened. While rubbing her sleepy eyes, she smiled with absoluteinnocence and purity...Erica's expression, completely different from her usual self, leavingGodou's emotions unsettled ever since getting up in the morning."I never expected a day when I would re-encounter Miss Erica and you inthis manner. Although I do have the intention to live that long, never in mywildest dreams would I have expected my old friend's grandson to becomea Campione."Gazing at Godou, Lucretia's eyes carried a gentleness that she seldomshowed, similar to that of a grandmother and an older sister at the sametime."Well then, it's almost time to broach the main subject. I've already heardover the phone from Miss Erica. You have apparently obtained a clueregarding 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 inthe 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 HisHighness Alexandre for betraying my love. Regarding the great hero whomhe seeks, you should search the Argo's genealogy if his true name is whatyou desire. I reveal this secret only to you alone, Kusanagi-sama!"While saying that, her face displayed a smile more adorable than anybeautiful maiden's.Despite clearly knowing the answer to the mystery Alexandre Gascoignesought, she remained silent during the time spent with him.Furthermore, Godou was finally able to pass this message along toLucretia.Transmitted to the woman who had devoted her life at one point towardsresearching the "King of the End.""...The Argo huh. The name of the ship built by the hero Jason in order toobtain the Colchis kingdom's secret treasure — the Golden Fleece — theArgo 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 aminute or two. With glazed eyes, she remained silent for a while beforespeaking again in unhurried murmurs:"Long long ago, at a certain place — "These whispers were said in Japanese. Just now, the two of them hadbeen conversing in Italian, but Lucretia suddenly spoke in Japanese.Godou jumped in surprise. Could it be tliat sine liad received an oracle viaspirit vision?Although not reaching Mariya Yuri's level of attainment, Lucretia was alsoa 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 visionregarding 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 longago. 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 finalincarnation — the weapon of the [Warrior]."This was probably an oracle via spirit vision as well. Lucretia spokesolemnly."The king manifesting at era's end is a deity who hides his nameinsistently. If the origin of his true name could be elucidated, then turningthat knowledge into a blade... The sword's spell words might possibly bringout far greater power than ever before.""My... Verethragna's sword?""For those who hide their names, the most powerful blow is only possibleto deliver if their true name is spoken. But of course, the battle cannot bewon simply through this alone."After that, Godou took his leave from Lucretia's residence.He rejoined his two companions outside. However, the helicopter that hadtransported them here had already returned to the Cagliari area."We need to arrange for transportation to get back. I've contacted fellowmembers 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 acellphone in one hand.Lucretia's residence was located at the very edge of town. There were noshops or other residences nearby. Erica started walking towards arelatively busier part of the tiny Oliena.Before leaving, she signaled with her eyes to Godou, probably asking himto 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 sunnytoday.Although the winter wind was quite chilly, thanks to the sunlight, it waswithin 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 ofwide open plains.If it were spring, this area would probably be covered with blooming flowersof 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 wordinvestigation 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 Gascoigneprobably would hate Salvatore Doni and his foolish airs. Indeed, just likehow Kusanagi Godou kept calling this man an idiot and felt veryincompatible with that eccentric nobleman as well.However — enduring this feeling of wanting to click his tongue, Godousecretly felt well-matched.(The things this guy does, ended up not being completely futile oruseless...)Today, Godou had paid Lucretia a visit due to getting dragged out here onaccount 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 ontothe Witch of Sardinia, thereby obtaining that spirit vision —It was possible that Lucretia might have obtained the same oracle eventhrough 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 ahint 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 theCampiones, 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'saccomplished. Let's go find gods worthy as our opponents, or start ajourney of investigation — ""After all that trouble to get back to this side, don't go causing commotionsthe same way as what you did in Gaul!""No no, you've got things backwards. I simply brought my modern waysover 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 anumber of times.""Like hell anyone wants to duel! I've already had enough showdownsbetween you and me. For the rest of my life, I'm fine with exiting the stagewith 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 byArtio.""Shut up. Adjusting your physical condition during battle is also a part ofcompetency!"While the two were engaged in a dialogue lacking in the solemnity of DevilKings...They suddenly stopped talking at the same time. A presence — Both ofthem noticed a presence that only Campiones could sense, beinggodslayers.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 ofsituation."After grumbling, Godou felt the blowing of wind.The cold and freezing wind of winter, blowing from a certain direction. Evenwhen this gust of cold wind swirled before the two Devil Kings to form acyclone, 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'sappearance. 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 werepitch black."The wind god we met in Gaul!?""Ehe. Looks like it's time for a greeting of 'Haven't seen you for fifteenhundred years!' or something like that."For Godou and Doni, the battle against this wind god only felt like it tookplace two months earlier.However, since the masked war god had continued to exist fromfifth-century Gaul all the way to now, this could definitely be described as areunion 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. Ayoung girl appeared deftly from behind the wind god. She looked abouttwelve 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 akinto that of a pure-black gemstone.She was dressed in a simple white robe of Greek style. The staff held inher 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 whohad passed away in Japan several months earlier."Nay. One is not Athena."The silver-haired beauty murmured haughtily. Even her tone of voice wasindistinguishable from that of the goddess."Tis meet for thee to address one as Pallas Athena, mine enemy of illfate."Part/"Twas said that the Witch Queen formerly existing in these lands wascalled Guinevere. One hath succeeded her legacy to become the presentgeneration 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 rathersurprising result. One did not expect to encounter mine enemy of ill fatethis soon.""Ill fate?"Divine Ancestors were not supposed to retain memories from theirprevious 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 yourlife away, right? If that's clearly the case, why do you serve the 'King of theEnd'? Shouldn't you bear a resentful grudge against the 'King of theEnd'!?""Verily indeed... Nevertheless, such is the existence known as the DivineAncestor."Even when faced with Godou's accusatory questioning, Athena still smiledhaughtily at him."Dost thou know? Those known as Divine Ancestors all came about as theend state of mother earth goddesses whose lives were taken by the swordof salvation... Having lost their lives to the divine sword, goddesses of theearth then reincarnate into Divine Ancestors, worshiping as their lord theking 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 shiftedslightly 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 theeast."There were currently two Campiones present.However, Pallas Athena ignored the frivolous Italian young man, onlystaring intently at Kusanagi Godou alone. The fighting spirit, nobility andpride 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 openedhis mouth —However, the masked war god took an extremely rapid step towards Doniin tiiis instant. It was almost akin to a declaration of "One shall be thyopponent!"Doni smiled happily as he looked at the war god while keeping his silentgaze on his opponent.Ignoring the minor disturbance, Pallas Athena smiled mysteriously."When reincarnating upon the earth, Divine Ancestors shall lose thememories from their past lives... as a deities. One is no exception. Be thatas 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. Asmuch as awakening the weary hero is one's mission, here existeth ill fatewherein 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 wasundoubtedly revived as a subordinate under the "King of the End."Nevertheless, even after becoming a Divine Ancestor, that goddess's corenature and soul most likely remained unchanged."It's the opposite. I'm the one who's going to defeat you. That's thepromise. 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 ofcircumstances between us.""Understood. That is to say, bonds of ill fate hath formed between thee andoneself, transcending life and death. 'Tis meet to interpret so, mayhap?— In that case, one shall inquire of you, godslayer. Pray tell, what thineappellation mayeth be?""Remember this well. I am Kusanagi Godou."Godou answered the Divine Ancestor who bore the proud face of the wargoddess.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 othergodslayer present hither. As one connected to the Devil King-slaying hero.Divine Ancestor Pallas Athena hereby issueth a declaration of war to thetwo 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 casethat had been slung on his shoulder all this time, taking out the longswordhidden within. This was preparation for battle."I never thought that right when I start investigating the 'King of the End,' I'drun into his subordinates. Let me accept this challenge gratefully. Show meyour 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 theauthority of the magic sword, he intended to slice everything into two.In response, the god known as the Wind King suddenly manifested a greatblade in his right hand.Using this blade, the masked war god redirected Doni's slash. A wisemove, considering that an attempt to block would likely result in his bodygetting sliced through together with the great blade. This also made onefact clear.The "Wind King" still remembered Salvatore Doni's magic sword."How amazing. I can't believe you still remember an opponent you fought athousand 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 thanabandoning the fight, he was entering his stance for the sword of mentalnothingness. Using this undisciplined standing posture, Doni unleashed anupwards slash!Confronted with the magic sword, slicing diagonally from below, the "WindKing" 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 matterwhat, he swung his sword completely naturally.This was precisely the true value possessed by the sword of mentalnothingness.Consequently, Doni continued to show a cheerful expression on his facewhile swinging the magic sword, intending to cut the "Wind King" from theleft flank up to the chest, severing the right shoulder completely.But at the very last moment, the "Wind King" blocked Doni's magic swordwith his left arm.Clang! The sound of steel striking steel. Indeed, hidden behind the maskand the strips of cloth wrapping the entire body, he or possibly she was ahybrid 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 waydeep.Godou had witnessed the same battle situation in ancient Gaul one and ahalf millennia earlier. But this time, the "Wind King" instantly used his righthand 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 inthe form of countless metal fragments.If the enemy was using a body possessing the hardness of steel, evenordinary punches and kicks could serve as substitutes for sure-kill movesfrom a sacred sword. In a certain sense, this manner of counterattackinggreatly befitted the war gods of steel, the embodiments of swords andblades."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 Swordswas not only a master of swordsmanship but also martial arts techniquesacross 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 SalvatoreDoni. This was evident from those movements.Having both lost their weapons, the two opponents faced off, maintaining aseparation of several meters.Doni was in an unguarded state with his back arched mildly, both armslowered.However, this sword guru of a man was capable of transforming myriadmartial techniques into powerful assets. Hence, he was even more scarywhen without a stance.Hence, the "Wind King" clenched his right fist and turned his right handtowards Doni.This was a stance that seemed to use the fist like a sword. Was the godtrying to exhibit martial arts such as unarmed fighting or boxing — ?The instant just as the two martial artists were about to start an unarmedbattle..."Time to desist, 'Wind King.' Naturally, thy splendorous valor is the trumpcard capable of defeating everything... But at this time, there are otherheroes who ought to be introduced to the godslayers."Orders issued by Pallas Athena. The "Wind King" immediately lowered hisfist.In the next instant, the hybrid god of wind and steel transformed into awhirlwind, his figure disappearing. Seeing him retreat so simply, Godounodded instead."I see now... If that guy is the only bodyguard, then there aren't enoughopponents for us."Pallas Athena wasa Divine Ancestor and at the same time, also the WitchQueen in possession of transcendental powers.But she probably did not wield sufficient power capable of rivaling gods orCampiones. 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 snakeswere to be released, thereby recovering a mother earth goddess's divinity.However, that was a trump card that could only be used in exchange forone's life.Logically, it was not something that could be used recklessly. That said, ifshe really did possess Athena's soul, then under conditions when it wasnecessary, she would surely take on a serpentine or draconic form withouthesitation...In any case, now was not the time yet. Feeling certain of that, Godou said:"Where are the guys you want us to meet?""Hahahahal 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 verydangerous!" To distance himself from Pallas Athena, he sprinted at fullspeed.Immediately, dozens of arrows descended where Godou had beenstanding previously!Taking a sideways glance at the great number of arrows embedded in theground, Godou had escaped disaster by the slimmest of margins.Furthermore, the other Campione was also taking strange action at thesame time."Ohoh!?"Suddenly startled, Doni swiftly jumped backwards.He moved as though he were evading someone's attack. But there was noone in front of Doni — no wait, the blond Campione was still continuing tododge left and right, repeatedly evading someone's attacks.His evasive movements looked like he was fighting an unseen enemy anddodging incoming attacks.Still, Godou understood quite well that Salvatore Doni was a user of themind's eye, capable of seeing through divine speed. Instinctively, Godoufelt that Doni was probably using this skill right now.Doni's attacker was a user of divine speed — impossible for ordinary peopleto 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 sortof pole-shaped weapon."Use this!""Haha, thanks!"Godou instantly called out to him. Smiling, Doni extended his right armtowards Godou.Godou clicked his tongue, quite displeased that Doni could understandwhat he meant without the need for explanations, when clearly they werenot on intimate terms at all.But right now, there was no leisure for grumbling. Instead, Godousummoned:"Ama no Murakumo! Fight alongside tliat guy for now!"'Affirmative!'Accepting orders, the divine sword residing in Kusanagi Godou's right arm,Ama no IVIurakumo 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 Japanesesword. However, the blade itself was exuding an jet-black and mysteriousaura of calamity."Since I have this, there's nothing to be afraid of!"With both hands, Doni adjusted and firmed his grip on the reinforcementsGodou 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 showdownagainst the "Wind King."Ama no Murakumo had splendidly blocked the pole-shaped weaponbelonging 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 noless 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 wasindeed the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, Sun Wukong. Over his yellowbattle outfit was leather-crafted gear consisting of gauntlets, greaves and abreastplate.Laughing merrily, this [Heretic God] was supposed to have perished on theplains 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 atNaples. Furthermore, Godou clearly remembered the rider sitting astridethe winged horse —"Hohohoho. How embarrassing. For a formerly dead body to return soshamelessly 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 thatgave no impression of cowardice despite its exquisite beauty and a headof lustrous, blond, wavy hair. These were two characteristics both belongto Perseus.During summer last year at Naples, Godou had fought a deadly battleagainst this ancient Roman hero.Speaking of which, Godou seemed to recall someone mentioningsomething 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 magicsword. 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 timeago.Glancing sideways at him, Perseus ordered his steed to flap its wings indescent, finally landing on the left side of Pallas Athena.Hence, the Great Sage Equaling Heaven also jumped back from Doni andlanded 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 colormixture belonged to that of an alloy of iron and gold."As the supreme sword god, the 'King of the End' possesseth the authorityto turn his perished kin into his own weapons — substituting for bows andarrows, substituting for swords."To think that he possessed that kind of authority in addition to the DivineSword of Salvation.Not only Godou but also Doni was staring speechlessly at the object in theWitch Queen's hand. On the medallion of iron and gold, threesword-shaped emblems were carved on its surface."This [Arrowhead's Discus] is precisely the vessel for storing the authoritiesof summoned sword gods. Fufufu, this treasure, passed down in secretbetween successive generations of Witch Queens, one shall now makeuse of it."Confronted with the happily smiling Pallas Athena, Godou gasped.Speaking of which, he recalled someone telling him to "beware of theking's arrowhead." Probably because of that, he had started feeling asense 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 nohelping it.What exactly was it? Just as he was feeling doubtful, Godou noticedsomething. By the time he noticed, the sky had filled with thundercloudsand 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 sametime.The jet-black divine sword disappeared from Doni's hand, manifesting inGodou's right hand instead. Instantly, Godou lifted the divine swordtowards the sky while invoking the [Bull] at the same time, Verethragna'sfifth incarnation.This incarnation of unparalleled monstrous might was only usable whenfacing opponents surpassing human strength.Naturally, there was no problem this time.Descending rapidly witli liglitning speed, tine enemy was a flying knightcharging through the sky. The opponent's energy and penetrative powereasily satisfied the [Bull]'s conditions. Using the incarnation's monstrousstrength, Godou raised Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi over his head.This was to block the lance thrust from the female knight descending fromthe heavens."Yahhhhhhhhhhhhh!""What wondrous joy to encounter you again, Kusanagi Godou! The man ofthis knight's destiny!"Accompanied by lightning, the knight charging at the ground was a beautywith a head of gorgeous hair the color of honey.Her short, sleek, soft hair felt refreshing. One with her steed, descendingfrom the sky, she was clad in chain mail, armed with a barbed cavalrylance.This very lance was thrust with the momentum and intention of piercingGodou's forehead with its tip.Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was able to block the attack by relying onthe [Bull]'s monstrous strength. The instant the jet-black blade and thelance 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 visionindeed.""Since things have gotten to this point already, I was thinking you'd surelyrevive as well."Saved for the moment at least, Godou panted as he replied.Sitting astride the flying white horse, the female knight was Lancelot duLac, of course."Well then. How now? Mine enemy of ill fate, Kusanagi Godou. And theother godslayer."Now with even the Amazonian queen under her command as well, PallasAthena announced sonorously:"Together with these war gods, the 'Wind King' also standeth by in one'sfaction. For a declaration of war against the present generation ofgodslayers, such combat potential would be considered quite sufficient,yes?""Oh my. Definitely quite sufficient. So sufficient that I almost want to thankyou."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. Thiswas 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 othergodslayers. Anon, one shall head thither to the farthest ends of the east toundertake the revival ritual for the 'King of the End.' Defeat one before theritual'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 vanquishmine enemy of ill fate first or to rouse one's master the hero. Then onehath 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 awandering goddess who willfully acted as she pleased, a ship steeringaccording to the wind, a being who moved forward according to whim andfancy.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 alsoidentical 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 flightmagic. As expected, surrounded by light, the gods instantly rose up intothe air, flying towards the eastern sky.Indeed. Towards the land where the "King of the End" still slumbered — thedirection where the islands of Japan lay.Parts"...That's what happened. This is the full story of Kusanagi-san's trip toSardinia."Amakasu reported the situation using his smartphone.Receiving the report from Tokyo's Chiyoda ward was Sayanomiya Kaoru, amember of the History Compilation Committee's core leadership."What a grand display. Gathering all the strong foes from the past, it'salmost 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 ofgreat Devil Kings like Kusanagi-san, the heroes of justice and the formergoddess 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'svoice coming from the telephone did not carry her usual cheerfulness."Anyway, the current plan is to meet up with Kusanagi-san and Erica-sanat the Pisa airport then return to Japan with everyone else. Althoughoriginally, I was planning to enjoy a week's holiday.""What a stylish thing to say when you're on a business trip funded bypublic money. Nothing less expected of you, Amakasu-san.""Not at all. Getting proper rest for the body and mind during a heavyworkload is a product of professional awareness."Ending the heartwarming conversation with his direct superior, Amakasuhung up.He was currently in the ancient castle hotel's lobby.Mariya Yuri, Hikari, Seishuuin Ena and Liliana were also present. Everyonewas 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 abouttracking down Salvatore Doni. Likewise for the reappearance of oldenemies."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 sincearriving at this lobby, the Mariya family's eldest daughter had remainedsilent with a blank expression.As her childhood friend, the Hime-Miko of the Sword took her time beforeasking:"Yuri, could it be that you saw something?""...Perhaps, I suppose one could say that. However, I cannot fathom at allwhat significance it might actually hold. That is why I am uncertain whetherI 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 HisMajesty's experiences, right? Whatever you saw, it's okay, just tell Enafirst!""Rather than seeing something, actually, it consists of nothing more than afew ambiguous words surfacing in my mind.""Words?""Yes. This is the content: 'An evil dragon in the sea. The dragonsummoned wind and clouds to blot the sky and sun. Lightning flashed toilluminate 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 feltperplexed.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 vaguelyreminiscent from somewhere —For some unknown reason, that was the impression garnered.References1 . t Sorcerer(3^Plj|^ ): note that the word "sorcery" is used in theCampione! universe to refer to evil magic. Hence, all sorcerers are evilby definition.AfterwordHello everyone, it's been a while. This is Takedzuki Jou.This time's Volume 16 is the second short story collection after Volume 8...Oh well, rather than short stories, it would be more accurate to say thatthese two volumes are mostly composed of mid-length stories.Compared to short stories, I actually like mid-length pieces more because Ican add in all sorts of things.This preference of mine has been thoroughly expressed.Also, this time's Appearance of Devil King and Knight, Roman Holiday,Late Night Edition, A Set of Three...? and Extra Story: The Illustrious Sage,True Lord Eriang are the short stories printed in the booklets included withthe first edition bonus materials of Volumes 1 to 7 of the anime DVDs andBlu-Rays. Also, The Imprisoned Campione and The Rumored Campioneare works published in the specials corner of the Super Dash Bunkowebsite.The mid-length story at the end. The Stirring of Heroes, takes place afterthe events of Volume 15.In fact, this Volume 16 was originally meant to be a complete collection ofall the short and mid-length stories I've written in various places, to bepublished together with newly written content.After finishing the work for Volume 15, I gathered up my stockpile ofmanuscripts..."Eh? This content alone is enough to fill up an entire book's worth ofpages!?"That was the truth I discovered.Hence, apart from the pages of newly written content, this volume endedup being published as a chronological collection of little stories dating fromthe spring when Kusanagi Godou became a Campione all the way untilautumn....Speaking of which, every month in 2012, I was writing stories for theanime bonuses.As a result, my stockpile of manuscripts yet to be collected in volumes hadapparently accumulated far more than I imagined (sweat drop).Also, apart from miscellaneous edits, no extra content has been added topreviously released works.The only exception is Appearance of Devil King and Knight which servedas the bonus story for the anime's first volume, where roughly ten pages ofcontent was added.But rather than adding new content, the story simply reverted to the stateof its initial draft.This happened because back when I first submitted the intial draft to amember of staff who helped out in all sorts of affairs on the animeproduction side, I was asked the following: Too many pages, could youreduce the number a bit? That caused me to speculate: "Oh, it's probablybecause the story will be recorded in the bonus booklet, so there's notenough space."Hence, several months later, I submitted a new version with ten pages ofmaterial cut out.Then a sample of the anime's first volume was delivered into my hands.When I saw the booklet where the bonus story was published, I thought:"There should be enough space on paper of this size. Just add one moreline of text onto each page and the initial draft would have fit!"So I proceeded to negotiate with the editor in charge."There's no need to be concerned about the page count issue for theremaining bonus stories, right? After all, depending on editing, adjustmentsare possible."Several months earlier, the editor in charge was still talking about pagecount restrictions but this time, he agreed readily....I hope it wasn't because of a recent conversation about how "the originalauthor was burdened with additional work in order to clean up after theaccidental mess caused by a certain editor..." (wry smile).In any case, having obtained the freedom to decide the page count, Iindulged my preference for mid-length pieces over short stories, thussplitting the Extra Story: The Illustrious Sage, True Lord Eriang into fourseparate releases.Thanks to that, my earlier idea of "Kusanagi Godou vs True Lord Eriang"finally took form.Oh my, since there are battle scenes in the plot, a page count restrictionwould really have posed a problem.Well then. Included last in this volume, The Stirring of Heroes is thepostscript episode taking place after Volume 15's ending, while being thenext volume's prelude at the same time.As for Volume 17's title, I'm thinking it'll probably be "The Hero's Name."If possible, I hope everyone can be patient for a little while.