Campione!

Chapter 4 - The Man from the EastPart 1Between the Italian Peninsula, shaped like a long boot, and the island ofSardinia in the west was a vast area of ocean. This area could beconsidered as part of the Tyrrhenian Sea.One of the types of vessels that frequented these waters was, for example,ferries. These ferries went to places like Genoa, Palermo, Naples andCagliari in circumnavigation. There are also many yachts used for cruising.Because the natural resources of the sea were abundant, naturally therewill be fishing boats.In the early dawn, before sunrise, the catch obtained from the fishing netsthat were cast in the sea would be filled with many varieties of fishes.However, in the midst of a school of unmatured Pacific Bluefin tuna, therewas one lone human caught there.Having drifted for god knows how long in the Tyrrhenian Sea, beingswept here all the way from Naples, but was still energetic and in highspirits, if you would like to describe that life form as still being human, thatwould be perfectly fine.Untangling himself from the fishing net full of Pacific Bluefin tuna, heclimbed up onto the boat.Making himself at home without any permission, he sat down on the fishingboat, and said to the dumbfounded fishermen,"Fuu - 1 almost thought I was done for this time. Ah, would you mind givingme the direction to the nearest land from here? It's fine, I'm really good atswimming. Eh - you'll lend me a boat? Sorry for troubling you - 1 see I see,which region is this ocean in again? Sardinia? That's just great. Seems likethings are going to get more interesting!"From the time when Kusanagi Godou had vanished without a trace, onenight had passed.It was around nine plus in the morning when this was discovered, asArianna was worried when she found that he was not in his room, andsubsequently searched the whole villa, confirming that he was indeed notaround."What happened to Godou-san? Could he have gotten into an accident?""Hmmm, maybe I went a little overboard with my jokes - "In the rented villa on Sardinia, the girls were having a meeting in the livingroom. Yuri was pacing around the room in distress, and on her face was alook of worry.On the contrary. Erica was not particularly worried about it.That blockhead must have accumulated too much stress living in thisfemale dormitory-like environment, and thus decided to run away, it shouldbe enough if we let him relax for a few days. He was asking for GenaroGantz' contact information yesterday, there's a possibility he's already athis house by now.Thinking that everything was within her calculations. Erica's attitude wascalm and composed.After telling Arianna that there was no need to worry, she asked her for anespresso."Yuri, didn't I say it before? Godou is a delicate person inside, even thoughhe's like that, and because of that he needs some time to himselfoccasionally. And thus, we'll leave him alone for the time being.Afterwards, pulling him by the ears and bringing him back would be muchmore effective, anyway, he's someone who can survive wherever he goes,there's no need to worry about him."She said in a rather indifferent manner, to the Hime-Miko who could notcalm down.As she would someday become the wife of the [King], staying by his side,worrying over this sort of thing was not necessary."Is, is that so...""Although the person himself has no self-awareness, his true personality isstill somewhat haphazard. Conversely, that is why I can say that it's fine ifwe aren't overprotective of him.""I can understand what Erica-san is trying to say, but..."Yuri was very worried, and at tiiis moment Erica liad started to feel a sliglitbit of unease."Tliere is a strange throbbing witiiin my heart, as though he was draggedinto something dangerous, it is a dark premonition."IVIariya Yuri was a spirit vision user of the strongest disposition.Among Erica's friends that were of the same age group, Yuri was one ofthe few that were acl<nowledged by her to possess talent of equalstanding. As for the others, they included Liliana Kranjcar of the[Bronze-Black Cross], and also that young master of the 'Hong Kong LuHouse'. Besides these few there were no others.As a result, this girl's senses and predictions must be taken seriously.Halfway through the conversation. Erica's phone began to ring.The [Diavolo Rosso] staring at the electronic display was shocked to seethat it was the Great Knight Andrea Rivera, [The King's Butler].Someone who never ceased to worry about various things, and also one ofthe few people that Erica felt sympathetic about."It's been a while. Sir Andrea. This time, is it good news or bad news thatyou are bringing?""Miss Erica, I don't recall ever bringing you any good news. This time is noexception - around midnight yesterday, a [Heretic God] had manifested inNaples, and coincidentally your master, Kusanagi Godou, was at thescene. Did you know about this?""I did not. Around ten plus yesterday night, he was still here with us.""Then, there is a possibility that he had used some other means oftransport other than a boat or plane to cross the seas from Sardinia. Hehad confronted the god in Naples, and was subsequently defeated. I donot know the exact details of the situation, but his life is not in danger - thatwraps up the current status. Actually, that was not the main topic I hadwanted to discuss.""T, then, what is it?""Please be on your guard, there is danger lurking just around the corner,near you. I cannot say what exactly, because it is simply too embarrassing.I had not wanted to say this, but I have no other choice....""Sir Andrea, are you currently in Naples now?""No... I'm at Sardinia. Because of some matters, I had to come here. Thatis... Mgh! You bastard, you managed to follow me here! Gffgh!?"Beep... beep... beep... beep....After hearing some yelling at the end, nothing more could be heard. Thecall was disconnected.Andrea Rivera had been attacked by some unknown assailant - it seemedas though he had been struck down. Being one the Great Knights, withstrength that rivaled Erica Blandelli, to be defeated this easily!"... U, um, did something serious happen?""A [Heretic God] has manifested in Naples. Our King, for some reason,was there, and engaged it in combat. However, it seems that the worstcase scenario had happened..."Erica replied, to Yuri who had asked out of concern.And then, Andrea Rivera's warning and defeat. He had said that dangerwas lurking around the corner.What on earth was going on?She needed to gather more information, and come up with the next courseof action, and especially find out about Godou's current condition. To bedefeated and not be dead, did he use the authority of the [Ram]?She had to expend all her connections, and obtain information at all costs.Just as she had started to do so, she realized that her phone did notrespond. Was it out of power?There should have been enough battery, it was strange."Ara? Arara? .... What's going on?"The maid uniform-wearing Arianna Hayama Arialdi walked out of thekitchen.She should not have known the current situation, and had a look ofconfusion on her face."What is it, Arianna? Is something wrong?""About that, Erica-sama, the gas has been cut, and as I was preparinglunch with the stove, the fire had stopped all of a sudden..."" - Who's the one who turned off the circuit breaker!?"There was yet another victim, and she rushed into the living room.With a gorgeous body that surpassed those of sexy celebrities, wearing athin, silky nightie and gripping a pillow under her arm, she was LucretiaZola. It looked as if she had been in the middle of her nap.Her usual laziness had disappeared, and Lucretia seemed a bit agitated."How am I supposed to nap in this kind of hot weather if the air-conditioneris turned off! Even the fridge is out of power! I won't be able to enjoy thebeer that I had kept there if it's not icy cold! Seriously, my comfortablevacation will be ruined at this rate!"If Godou were to hear this, he would have made some common sensecomments, saying that she was overly self-indulgent.Erica continued to observe the current occurrences.She winked at Yuri, and the nodding Hime-Miko picked up the televisionremote, and pressed a few buttons. There was absolutely no responsefrom the television.They confirmed that all of their cellphones were not working, and could notbe turned on.Walking outside, they tested Erica's newly bought car.The engine would not turn on, and neither would the torchlight they kept atthe doorway.It was not merely a simple blackout and a gas leak, it seemed."It seems that we would not be able to lead a civilized life in the areaaround this house. Electronic devices, machines are all non-functional.Yuri, can you feel anything?"Perhaps it is a wide-range phenomenon that has even affected thisarea, I think. But, I cannot sense what is at the core of this... Could it bepossible that a [Heretic God] has manifested nearby?"Erica frowned, listening to Yuri, who was explaining with a seriousexpression.She had to find out who or what was behind this incident, fast. Andimmediately after, hurry to Kusanagi Godou's side, who was in Naples.Erica sprung into immediate action.As Erica began to move, on the other side -In a swimming area of the beach not too far from their villa, a fierceargument was taking place."In the first place, you asshole, it doesn't even make sense to be swimminghere all the way from the mainland!""It's not like I wanted to swim here. I got washed away by the waves, and Idon't even know when I managed to arrive. It was such a rare opportunityto be able to play with Godou, it's regrettable that I ended up at the wrongplace."He said, to the person who had been tied up by rope, while opening asmall icebox, which contained crushed ice and a dozen cans of beer.Although Italians gave the impression that they liked to drink red wine andsimilar alcoholic drinks, their consumption of beer was surprisingly high.He pulled open the tab, and gulped an entire can in one go. Puhaa!"... Ungh, it feels so great having a can after a swim. Fufufu, fridges don'twork at the moment, so these cold drinks are rather valuable now -Andrea, do you want some too?""Who the hell wants to drink, you sorry excuse of a human, a piece ofbreathing industrial garbage! What are you going to do about that incidentin Naples!?""There shouldn't be any problem with it, nope. Since Godou is alreadythere, then I'll just leave things to him. My job now is to stop those girlsfrom going there to help him - if he can make it out of this grueling ordealon his own, he'll improve even faster!"Surrounded by pine trees, it was a small yet beautiful beach.Enjoying the scenery of the beach, holding a can of cold beer in one hand,bathing in the sunlight, and the azure color before your eyes - a marineblue sea that stretched endlessly.Of course, the one enjoying his much anticipated vacation was a youth,Salvatore Doni.Part 2Kusanagi Godou found himself in some unknown space.This place was nowhere, a place that did not exist on Earth, nor reality.It was a world of grey. It was grey as far as the eye could see.However, there was something else in this world of grey.".... To be able to meet properly like this, it has been quite some time."There was a girl in front of him.She looked about fifteen. Well-proportioned features. A slim figure. If onewere to compare her with the styles of Lucretia Zola or Erica Blandelli, onemight say that she was of the more 'slender' type.Regardless, she was alluring.She could be described as beautiful, but also, she had a very cute, doll-likeface and figure. Her pink hair was split to the left and right, and waswearing a thin white dress.With her diminutive stature, she gave off the impression of a child.However, in contrast, she gave off a glamorous feel of a [Lady], more thanany other girl that Godou knew.He did not know who she was initially, but had recalled in an instant.Indeed, she was...".... Pandora-san, am I right?""Still the same old reserved way of addressing me, eh - Even though it'd befine if you called me 'Mama'..."Her frivolous manner of speech made it seem as though she had attacheda heart-shaped symbol at the end of her sentence.Having pure Japanese DNA in his body, Godou could not accept thatsuggestion, so he ignored it for now. His questions began to pile up.The couple who had given birth to the devil king Campiones, the immortalEpimetheus and his wife, Pandora.She was the latter, obviously."Every meeting of ours seems so surreal, although I'm not sure why, Ialways forget that we've met, afterwards.""Hmm, saying things so bluntly, maybe your level isn't high enough?"With the solemnity of a goddess (tentatively), she said that."With continuous purification of the soul, then attaining enlightenment, thatis the level you will need to be to remember the things that happen in thisspace. Those who are able to reach that state, usually don't becomegodslayers, so I guess it's pretty much impossible."Haa. Then, is this the boundary between life and death?"Faint, hazy memories floated through his mind. Those must have beeninformation that were taken in before.Hearing Godou's question. Pandora nodded, smiling. It was such a wideand cheerful smile, the smile of a normal girl that could be found anywhere."Correct. The world of idea, as the ancient Greeks would say. For thePersians, 'menog'. As you have already died once, your link with the realworld has become thin, which is why you have found your way here.""Before my death, I should have used the power of the [Ram]...""That's correct, your physical body is recovering smoothly now. In actualfact, before you revived, you had surely died once, you know. Didn't younotice?""Maybe. But I'm starting to doubt that's the case.... "If it were possible, Godou would have liked to never remember that kind ofinformation, murmuring to himself.Is that so? Am I going to resurrect after I die? What a haphazard body Ihave."Isn't it fine? It was because of that that you were able to come to thisrealm and meet me. Although I can materialize in the physical world, it'sreally troublesome to return to this place. Which brings us to the birth ofgodslayers! I don't come out unless it's a situation like that, recently.""Haa.... Then, what's the special occasion"Although she was like that, she was a supporter to Campiones. Apatroness, so to speak.Normally, she would not appear for no special reason."I called you out in order to give you a warning. You've encountered thedivine attribute of «Steel» , right?""Steel... You mean Perseus?""Yep, that. That hero, he is a villain... no, a trickster, so be careful aroundhim! Anyway, because you are rivals with those guys of CSteel) , losingto them is a definitely no-no!""Is your warning just that?"If you could win just because someone told you not to lose, then lifewouldn't be so full of hardships. Looking at Godou who was scratching hishead. Pandora shook her head."No, that's not it. Leaving aside the other godslayers, because you wereborn at the ends of the east, I'm specially telling you this. On the islandwhere Godo^^^ lives, sleeps the strongest CSteel) , so you have to becareful, for the time being. Understand?""Strongest?""Yes, the strongest. Although the hero you are fighting now is also strong,that person is even stronger."".... Why would that kind of person be in Japan?""Because, that is the end of the east - beyond that lies only sea, in otherwords. There are many things that have been swept there, heaped upthere... perhaps it might be fine, seeing as that has already been sleepingfor so long.""Regarding that, could you please elaborate further?""Sorry, no can do. We stand at the side of the gods, after all, so I can't tellyou any more than that. This is the pact that we have with this world, rulesthat we absolutely have to abide by.... Furthermore, whatever I say here,won't you forget once you return? Even if I do elaborate, it won't be of anyuse.""Now that you mention it, that's true..."Godou replied in a soft voice. Her words did, after all, remain in this realmof unconsciousness.Perhaps the sixth sense and instincts of the Campiones that Godou had,were the information that she had relayed from this realm."Be careful. That person, is really vulgar, an enemy of women, unfit for thetitle of 'hero'! If you end up having to fight him again, you definitely cannotlose! You must give him a thorough thrashing!"As I thought, this wasn't a warning.This was more like when the sports-minded seniors were emphasizing 'youmust definitely win' to their juniors when playing against a rival school, forexample. That kind of message was conveyed. Having that kind of feeling,Godou sighed deeply, as he returned to the real world.The awakened Godou raised his upper body.He was on a bed. Though the room was small, it was kept very clean. Is ita guest room? As there weren't many daily necessities that could be seen,it felt like this room was rarely used.Beside the bed, there was a familiar girl. Though, it was not the pretty girlwho had reddish golden hair.She was just as beautiful, though, the fairy-like, silver haired knight."Wh, what time is it now?""Ri, right now, it is almost noon.""Then, where are we?""This is the house of Diana Milito. My companion who stays in Naples. Inorder to take care of you, I borrowed her guest room."Liliana Kranjcar - answered the questions that Godou had asked themoment he awoke. It must have been about one o'clock, past midnightwhen he was defeated by Perseus. Has he slept for half a day?Strange.... Godou tilted his head.Verethragna's seventh form, the [Ram]. This power allowed him to avoiddea- no, resurrect him from death. However, because it was not activatedautomatically, it would be meaningless if he was killed instantly.And, he would be in a sleeping state for a certain period of time, until hewas fully recovered.However, the time that he slept this time was the longest by far, it seemedas though he had the memory of entering the dream world, could it bebecause of that? Even so, it seems that he had gotten used to death...To him, who had naturally accepted the cycle of death and resurrection, hefelt somewhat sad for himself." - Kusanagi Godou!"His name was suddenly shouted.Turning around, he could see big drops of tears in Liliana's eyes, and shehad a complicated expression on her face."I, is your body still hurt? Last night, after being struck down by Perseus,even your breathing had stopped, I don't even know when you had startedgetting better....""Ah, sorry about that. Because of various reasons, I could manage tosurvive..."I see. From the angle of someone who did not know the reason behind it, itwould have seemed like a miracle.As he was reflecting on this, Godou gave a simple explanation of hisresurrection. He wasn't sure if she had heard the details of his unreliablepower, but Liliana's tears had begun to fall..... She's crying? This stout-hearted girl? With such an unexpecteddevelopment, Godou shrunk back in fear."I, if you can resurrect yourself, then please tell us first before you go anddie... Do you have any idea how worried I was!""S, sorry. There just wasn't any time for me to explain."Godou could only lower his head in the face of the crying and angryLiliana. He had lost He honestly did not think she would start crying."Knowing how to manage your time is also part of the abilities of a King!B-but, I'm really relieved. That you have safely returned... I'm truly sorry. Itis because of my failure that things had turned out like that!"Liliana who had ceased to be angry was crying and apologizing.His opinion of her changed yet again, because she looked like a doll, hedid not think that she was someone who revealed her emotions. In reality,she was really an emotional girl.She had been seriously anxious and angry, and her emotions were clearlydisplayed on her face."Well, since I managed to survive, isn't it a happy ending? .... Because, youdidn't really fail or anything. It was because I am too weak that I lost toPerseus."Hearing Godou say that, Liliana immediately raised her face, which waswet with tears."N, no, that's not it. Your defeat was my failure.... If at that time, I had ki....kissed you, the ending would have turned out differently, wouldn't it."Godou felt his face turn red at her reply, and changed the topic in apanicky voice."That's not true! That's definitely not the reason I lost! More importantly,what happened after that!? What about Perseus and Athena!?""Ah, yes. The problem has not been solved, and danger is still close by."Liliana then told him what had happened.Hearing that it was only a temporary truce between the two gods, Godou'sheart became heavy, and thought of another troublesome problem."Ah, that's right. Erica and the others still don't know that I'm here inNaples... Have you contacted them yet?""Um, no... I'm very sorry, but I forgot about that.""I'm not reprimanding you, you know. I'll go and give them a call, so it's noproblem at all."Although he said that, he was slightly worried.If Erica and Yuri were to find out about last night, he would no doubt haveto face their sarcasm and scolding. If he were to contact them, would hehave to hide the truth? Godou scratched his head, considering his options."Liliana-sama, all the way since last night, had been at Godou-sama's sidelooking after him. Really, she has not left the bedside even once, suchpraiseworthy devotion!"The person singing praises of her own master was Karen, who had justentered the room."Ka, Karen! It's fine even if you don't say it!""Ara Liliana-sama, no need to be shy. A maiden staying at the side of awounded warrior, it's as though it were a scene from a painting. Goingback to the main topic, if you would like to make a call, you can do it rightaway, but.... is that really fine with you, Kusanagi-sama?"After teasing her master till her face had turned red as an apple, Karenturned to asked Godou.Not knowing the meaning behind her question, Godou tilted his head to theside."May I ask if there's something wrong with that decision?""No, while Kusanagi-sama was asleep, we had considered contactingErica-sama. However, we decided to wait for your decision first, just incase."The little devil of a maid stated."Actually, I'm on good terms with Arianna Hayama Arialdi, so I had heardfrom her that Kusanagi-sama had come to Italy with Erica-sama and aJapanese mistress. And another one from Sardinia - please excuse me,the one you are intimate with privately, Lucretia Zola. Together,Kusanagi-sama had went to Sardinia to enjoy a long vacation."Who, just who was the man being described as a sexual maniac?At least, it definitely wasn't Kusanagi Godou, hence, when Liliana began tostutter, 'wh, what a depraved lifestyle...' and could not stop shaking, hewished she would stop, seriously."You had disappeared from your place of residence, leaving behind yourlovers to run away with a beautiful young girl on a journey. I had such a bigshock when I found out, could they be eloping? Had it been a disputebetween lovers - problems between man and woman? In conclusion, Ideduced that it might be better not to inform your lovers.""There are many problems with your train of thought, and furthermore,she's a god!""Ku, Kusanagi Godou it's fine if you don't mind the perception of others,you already are a famous advocate of lechery. It's well within reason tohave one or two ha, harems under your management... Yes, you will thenbathe in a bath filled with champagne, and indulge in debauchery togetherwith your lovers, no doubt about it! And then one day, you will gather everybeautiful woman in the world, creating the biggest harem history has everrecorded! - Ku, what depravity!""Liliana-sama, that is only natural for a King. Well, men are such creatures,after all.""Oi, oi! Don't be spouting such nonsense with a straight face!"Ultimately, Godou had to spend ten minutes to resolve this.Scolding the Liliana who had blurted out some ridiculous fantasies of hers,and then intimidating Karen who was adding oil to fire, things finallyquietened down."... And that's how it is, I do not have any lovers, there's nothing betweenme and Erica, we're just friends, IVIariya - the Japanese girl is also thesame, and lastly, about Lucretia Zola, she's an elder, the same age as mygrandmother!""Can normal friends kiss each other so passionately? If that's the case,then wouldn't there be a problem with your morals and sense of virtues?""That... that couldn't be helped, we had no choice!"He had already repeated that excuse many times, to no effect.Karen had a smile that did not quite reach her eyes like a little devil,disregarding his words. On the other hand, Liliana appeared to have sunkinto deep thought, but fortunately she did not pursue the matter, thoughshe seemed to be acting a little weird.Godou then borrowed the phone, and dialed Erica's number.The call did not connect, and he repeated the procedure for Lucretia andAnna's numbers, which did not work either. Yuri's phone was the same asGodou's, they could not be used in Italy, hence he did not dial her number.In the end.... even after many tries, he could not reach any of hiscompanions on the island of Sardinia.Parts"Then, you were not able to get in contact with any of your companions?How very strange - !"This day, at the old bookstore which had hung up the 'Closed for businesstoday' sign, the house of the witch, Diana Milito.The exact location was Diana's kitchen.Despite the late tinning for lunch, the table was piled with food. They sat ina circle around the dining table discussing, including the master andservant pair Liliana and Karen, and Kusanagi Godou."That's right. I would like to try contacting the headquarters of Erica and theothers, and ask if they have any news of them, would you mind giving metheir contact information?""If that's what you need, then you should leave it to us, there's no need toworry."Kusanagi Godou was talking to Diana.Meanwhile, Liliana had been constantly stabbing the seafood salad withher fork, wearing a dark expression. Things that have been giving her aheadache have been piling up as high as a mountain, hence it was naturalthat she did not want to join in the conversation.On an unrelated note, while preparing lunch, Diana had said, for example,'Sir Salvatore is famous for having no interest in women, whileKusanagi-sama is still young and lecherous, right? ...Whether he has anyinterest in women that are older than him, I'm a little worried!' while beingfidgety and seemingly bothered."Well then, Kusanagi Godou - the incident this time round, I leave it in yourhands, will there be a problem with that?"In any case, he needed to say something constructive.When Liliana reaffirmed it with him, the youngest Campione, naturally,nodded his head."Since no-one knows where that bastard Doni has gone, and the only oneleft is me, I have to do something about it. Maybe this is some kind of fate."Compared to all the other [Kings] who had various personality faults, hewas the more understanding kind.He was also chivalrous and dedicated, if it were not for his immoral loveaffairs, he would definitely be a great, upstanding man of influence, Lilianacould not help but think this way.Erica - that vixen, what did she think of his womanizing ways?Turning a blind eye. Crying oneself to sleep. No, those definitely don'tseem like her - Or maybe, is she actively cooperating and assisting him?That is a very high possibility! Creating an environment of depravity for the[King], causing him to be overly indulgent, and then controlling him forherself!No, wait... Indeed, she is horrible enough to be called a demon, but goingto those lengths is simply too vicious. Being a dignified knight, one shouldhave the pride not to do that."By the way, do you have any news of Doni?""Y-Yes, about that... On that subject, this morning. Sir Andrea - SirSalvatore's butler, that is, there had been a phone call from him. Didn't youpick up that call, Diana?"Being suddenly asked out of the blue, Liliana replied, flustered.Not good. I should keep those excessive thoughts out of my head, whenhaving these serious talks."He had called to confirm our current situation. Not even he had an idea ofthe current whereabouts of Sir Salvatore... Furthermore, I had justattempted to give him a call earlier, but I could not get through no matterhow many times I tried.""The same situation as those in Sardinia..."Hearing Diana's report, Kusanagi Godou made a difficult expression.Though the situation did not seem optimistic, but he did not show anytraces of worry in his expression. It might be that those unreachable peoplewere very capable, especially Salvatore Doni. It was hard to imagine himbeing in any sort of danger, Liliana could agree with that point of view."May I raise a suggestion?"Karen, who had been listening, piped out.Having finished serving the food, she was sitting and eating together withthem."There are too many things which we do not have a clear understanding ofat the moment, and the current pressing matters have not been resolvedyet. However - the most important thing right now, I believe, would be whatwe can do in order for Kusanagi-sama to defeat Perseus.""That's true - 1 have to duel that guy... Truthfully speaking, the odds areagainst me."Kusanagi Godou murmured."If it's a problem with [Instruction], in Naples, there are many who areskilled at it - me, for example, witches who are capable at the use of that,there's no need to worry about this.""Ah, no. Although there's a problem with that, I'm concerned withsomething more worrisome!"Diana said that, with the look of someone who had absolutely no problemwith it, and the panicking young [King] avoided the topic."That guy, Perseus, has the ability to completely seal my powers, so evenif I use the [Sword], it would probably be sealed as well, if I knew how hecould pull that off - the secret of how he sealed the authorities ofVerethragna, then the ending might have been different.""... That's how it was, eh."Diana sank into deep thought.As a Great Knight and a witch, she felt frustrated and mortified, but Lilianaalso had no idea what had happened. Of course, Karen was the same,hence they were eagerly awaiting their senior's input."Perseus' name also bears the meaning of 'One who came from Persia', inactual fact, his divine attribute has its origins from the Oriental.""Persia? Then, isn't that the same as Verethragna!?"Godou stood up in shock.It seemed as if he were very eager, perhaps the origins of how theundefeated war god's powers had been sealed laid in that direction."Hm, how should I put it? The Persia referenced here, it only refers to the[East]. The Persia of old is also the current Iran, and the god, Perseus'early ancestors were from Iraq, specifically Babylon."Without a doubt, Perseus was a hero born in Mesopotamia. However, inthe battle last night, he had referred to Verethragna as a [distant comrade].Liliana looked very confused, as she did not know these facts."To save his wife Andromeda, he slew the monster Tiamat. Legends saythat it is a colossal whale or sea serpent type of sea monster."Liliana understood the meaning of Diana's words.In these times, the constellation Cetus referred to the sea monster, Tiamat.The constellation of Perseus, the constellation of Andromeda and theconstellation of Cassiopeia, for example, these constellations were knownas the constellations that represent autumn.However, that name had a more important meaning."The name of Tiamat, also shares the meaning of a goddess of Babylon. Agreat goddess of the land that gave birth to gods, a ruler of the divineworld, a goddess that took the form of a dragon, and also a bringer offloods. The one who had struck her down was Marduk, a god of storms,becoming the King of the gods.""Are you saying that.... When this myth was spread to Greece, it hadbecome the myth of Perseus?"Godou felt as if he had stumbled on a piece of the truth.The story of Marduk slaying Tiamat had been altered with the passingdown of the story through the centuries, becoming the myth of Perseus.Because of that, Perseus had been known as 'One who came from Persia'.Greek mythology had no form of its own, rather, it was a combination ofmany different myths from many different places.Many examples could be found that depicted the gods of other cultures asevil gods or monsters within Greek mythology.Athena and Medusa was a very good example of this, and in this regard,Perseus probably had better luck."And that's it, the only mystery remaining is the relationship with the godVerethragna."Diana seemed somewhat sorry.Having grasped a little of the situation, Godou looked up at the ceiling, alittle troubled."If only Mariya was here, she might have been able to give us some clues.""Though I agree with you on this point, but since we are unable to get incontact with them, we'll have to give up on that. Or are you implying thatwe are not capable enough to uncover the secret of Perseus? At any rate,let's think of something together, shall we?"Liliana made a realistic suggestion.In Europe, people like Mariya Yuri who were gifted with such spiritualvision were scarce. Perhaps he had been asking for too much, and theyoung Campione nodded his head in agreement."I'll try to contact some friends and see if I can find out anything about theirwhereabouts. In this kind of situation, the best person to consult is Mariyaor Lucretia, after all. I'm also a little worried for their safety."With those words, Godou who had eaten his fill stood up from the diningtable.He strode out of the dining room, leaving behind the witches."Well then.... it would be better if we had a meeting for our next course ofaction now, don't you agree?"After Godou had left, leaving behind the three of them, Karen suggested."It is just as Kusanagi Godou had said. Contacting his companions is thebest course of action right now. That Japanese miko's spiritual vision is notsomething any one of us here can match, and furthermore, we will need toborrow the wisdom of Lucretia Zola."Hearing Liliana's reply, Diana nodded her head.The witch of Sardinia, Lucretia Zola, known as [Scholar of the Gods], hadextensive knowledge of the [Heretic Gods], techniques of magical arts andthe strength of magical energies, truly, she was a stellar witch. Even themost powerful witch in Naples, Diana, couldn't hold a candle to her."True. Those who have more years to their age compared to us, it's simplya matter of experience!"If she was asked how many years exactly is the difference in experience, itwould surely become awkward.Karen, who had considered this point, did not ask."In that case, the responsibility of assisting the [King], would have to fall onthe lovers of Kusanagi-sama, which would mean that all the credit will besnatched away by Erica-sama... Also, Erica-sama is a Great Knight of[Copper-Black Cross]..."Liliana had roughly guessed her witch junior from the same organization,her servant's intention and meaning behind those words."In the same situation, but seemingly powerless, won't the name of the[Bronze-Black Cross] be shamed?""If it's only a little, that's also fine by me..."Karen's true reason as to why she did not contact Erica, was probably this.Finding opportunities to boost their own side's standing, and alsopreventing their rivals from advancing."However, in the face of the threat of a [Heretic God], this is not the time tobe concerned about those trivial things, it is enough that we only have todo our part to the best of our abilities."Liliana said, resolutely."Even if the results do not fall in our favor, but Erica and the others canobtain victory - isn't that fine as well? No matter who, if the [Heretic God] isforced back, bringing safety back to Naples would be sufficient... Even ifthat is not the case, I will do my utmost in rendering my assistance toKusanagi Godou, and achieving victory together, is this acceptable?""Understood."Karen respectfully nodded her head, before continuing."If it's Liliana-sama, then it would be natural to think along those lines. Inthat case, then let us inform the headquarters of the [Bronze-Black Cross],to search for Erica-sama and company, whose whereabouts are currentlyunknown... But, please perform the magic art of [Instruction] onKusanagi-sama, to create a fait accompli before they arrive, just to besure.""Eh?""Of course, this is Liliana-sama's duty. Since you want to do your utmost tohelp, naturally you won't refuse? Seeing as you've already said soyourself.""Eeeeh!?"Oh no. They've turned my words against me! Liliana realized that she hadbeen set up."No, listen here, didn't he say it before? That the secret of Perseus has notbeen cracked yet!""If it's about the secret, we'll be able to find the answer if everyonebrainstorms together. But if we do not decide on a course of action, we willnot be able to proceed smoothly.""It, it's fine even if it's not me, didn't you say that you would be fine with it,Diana?""Th, that's true - It's embarrassing, but if it's for the sake of fighting a god..."Diana answered, her cheeks flushing red. Yep, she may be a little older,but she is still pretty cute. Kusanagi Godou, being the lecher he is, shouldbe fine with her."Well, although we have that worst option available, but - "In response to Liliana's suggestion, Karen replied, smiling.A smile like an evil black cat, giving off an ill omen."What I would like to say is, that this incident is, surely, fate.""Fa, fate?""That is correct. Between Kusanagi-sama and Liliana-sama, there is abond of destiny. I mean, it is not normal, that the situation has become soserious to the extent that Liliana-sama has no other choice but to kiss aman, this is definitely the work of fate, connecting two persons together,guiding the both of you.""H, how can I believe such an overbearing reason?!""Then, Liliana-sama, earlier on, why were you sneaking glances atKusanagi-sama with such a fervent look in your eyes? Also, the both ofyou had spent the whole of last night together. Are you starting to feel thatyou have no other choice but to get closer to that King? Fufu, it's futile tofeign innocence. Because, I have already seen through everything."When Karen pointed that out, Liliana gulped.Come to think of it, since that meal, she might have been feeling that way.Nothatsnotit^^^, it's not fate not anything like that. Just - yes, it was just thatwhen she looked at the face of her [King], her heart would beat furiously inher chest uncontrollably!"To make it clear, Liliana-sama has fallen in love. Yes, the throbbing inyour chest is the feeling of the fact that you can't help noticing him as aman. That, for sure, is love!""L, love!?"Liliana was stunned. That was ridiculous. She did not want to believe it, butwhat if it were true?"Ara, is that so? I suppose we've no other choice - the job of kissingKusanagi-sama, we'll leave it to Lily in that case!""Di, Diana, you too!?""Furthermore, this fated love will bring along with it luxury and privilege. Inorder for Liliana-sama to succeed in becoming Kusanagi-sama's lover, theGreat Knight of the [Bronze-Black Cross] has to stay by the [Kingj's sideand wait upon him.""L, lover...? Karen, what are you saying!?""Ah, I see. Fufu, that Karen, thinking of such vicious thoughts, just likealways!"In contrast with the distressed Liliana, Diana seemed oddly happy. To thetwo who were older, Karen smoothly explained her plan."From the results of my analysis of Kusanagi-sama since yesterday night,he is not as used to women as the rumors say. At this point in time, hislovers are easily able to exert their influence over him. Of these, there aretwo of them at the moment. If one were to enter the field and chase themaway, one would need to have power of equal strength!""Ch, chase away!?""Yes. Fortunately for us, Liliana-sama is a Great Knight and also a witch ofthe [Bronze-Black Cross], and the next-in-line to be the head of theKranjcar family, whether it is magical or political power, you woulddefinitely do him proud."Currently, the organization with the greatest connections and influenceover Kusanagi Godou was the [Copper-Black Cross].Although the organization has not yet fully submitted themselves to him,they had monopolized his influence. As a result, the other mages wereunable to get close to him. The situation was both insalubrious and unfair.To put an end to that collusive relationship, necessary measures must betaken, and after hearing all that, even Liliana had nothing more to say.She, as Kusanagi Godou's lover. Was such a future possible?Unintentionally, Liliana fell into deep thought. For some reason, her mindhad begun to fill with random stories and scenarios.- A young girl, unused to the ways of love.- Before her, a mysterious, unruly and charming boy had appeared. Aroundthe boy and girl was the coiling scent of danger. Through a meeting ofcoincidence, they had both realized the other's existence.- 1, with such a half-baked person, I can't possibly like or feel anything elsetowards him.- Though she had said that, the girl was still entranced by the boy. And theboy, towards the girl who would not be honest with herself, grew aninterest, and before he knew it, he had engraved her presence in hismemories, locked in his mind and heart for eternity.Liliana who had been fantasizing the above quickly shook her head. Whaton earth was I thinking!?"Karen, don't say such nonsense to anyone else. I, I'll be taking a shortrest!"The sound of someone standing up from a chair was heard, and Lilianawalked out of the kitchen.And after that, the oldest witch and the maid might have continuedwhispering things like, '... There's hope yet!', or, '.... Yes, that's right, just alittle push more, for the sake of shortening the distance between those two,we have to use this trick like this...'.Part 4Godou had managed to get in touch with Genaro Gantz through the phonehe borrowed.Neither he nor the others from the [Copper-Black Cross] had the faintestinkling of where Erica might be, which meant that they could not contactthem either. Really, what is going on?Could it be that a [Heretic God] had descended upon Sardinia, causingsomething strange to happen?"That is a possibility, seeing as that demoness wouldn't disappear for nogood reason.... Leave the matters on that side for us to investigate, andthe incident in Naples, we'll leave to you.""I got it, then I'm counting on you."After designating their tasks, they said their farewells and hung up the call.- After hurriedly finishing the call, Godou returned to the closed oldbookstore.This was logical, but he was surrounded by western books. Because ofthat, the atmosphere here was the same as his house in Japan. Even if thecountry was different, the smell of the air inside the bookstore was thesame.It was past seven in the evening.Even so, it was still very bright, usual for a summer day in Europe. If thiswere Japan, it would already have been dark.In the interior of tlie siiop, dyed orange by tine sun setting in tlie west,Godou liad borrowed a phone, and then contacted all of his Italianacquaintances. Finishing all that, Godou looked out the window.The outside gave off a feel of an industrial area, due to the rubbish thatwere littered all over the place.In the grocery store on the opposite side of the street, there was afrighteningly fat woman in a sleeveless, midriff-baring top and hot pantsrunning the shop. It was a scene that fully displayed the cultural gapbetween Italy and Japan.If only he had the time and mood, he would have very much liked to go fora jog.He gave up on that thought quickly, and went to look for the witches... onthe way, he found a notebook with a black leather cover.Whose belonging is that? Without thinking, Godou picked it up, andopened it.[Stop, let go of me! I, I really hate you!][Fuu. Then, why did you come here? I know the reason. You are - ][Ah, no - ngh!?][I won't let go of you. Be my woman.]Is this a shoujo novel? No, a harlequin romance?This was a romance novel depicting the love of two, but written by hand.The protagonist had, as though no one else was around, aggressivelymade advances on the heroine, kissing her against her will, and things likethat."I have lost - I'd never have thought that such a thing could be written...."Godou deeply regretted looking at the contents.He felt somewhat guilty about sneaking a look. To whom does this belongto? The person who seemed like she would write this way, was it Diana?Just as he thought of sneakily returning it at a later time and as he closedthe notebook.He felt a chilling sensation on his back, chilling, and sharp. This feeling,should be a blade."Do not move. Just like this, let's go outside... Do not make a sound, andact more natural. Understood?"A soft warning - no, a threat.Who is that? It couldn't be the showy, grandiose Perseus. Then, was thisperhaps an assassin from some secret organization? While worrying overthis, Godou followed the instructions, and left the store.Together with the person holding the blade to his back, they walked alongthe street that was bathed in the sunlight of the setting sun.Godou resisted the temptation to look back. If he were to do so, he woulddefinitely get stabbed, it was too risky..... Before long, they turned into a dirty, dark alleyway."It's fine now. Slowly, turn around."Doing as told, Godou had a shock when he turned around.An unexpected face."What!? Liliana-san, why did you do that!? Could it be that you have beenafter my life all this time...?""Y, you found out about my secret! After I kill you, I'll die too!"" Eh?"Holding a shortsword and with a brooding expression, the words of LilianaKranjcar had left Godou stunned."This notebook, could it possibly be yours!?"That notebook, whether it was a romance novel, or a collection of poems,he was unsure of."Even though I had only just took it out from my bag to write on earlier, I'mnot sure when I had lost it.... Could it be, that you have searched throughmy belongings!?""I, there's no way I would do that sort of thing! You have to believe me!"(By the way, this was the work of the scheming Karen, who took it out ofher bag, and then before Godou passed through the corridor, purposelyleft it in his path. The above was the truth behind this incident, but the twoof them would never find out about the cause and effect of it.)"At any rate, since you found out about my secret hobby, I have to silenceyou!""Eh, hold on a second! Killing someone over something of this degree, isn'tthat too ridiculous!""It's not ridiculous at all! I won't allow the amount of people who canblackmail me with this to increase any further!"Speaking of blackmail, Godou immediately thought of someone's faceThat [Diavolo Rosso] - she and her fellow cronies, would in an elegantmanner, make request after request, that face.Although it was an unfounded guess with no evidence behind it, but tothink this way was not strange at all."Anyway, calm down first. I'm different from Erica, it'll be fine.""Kuh.... To mention that name, as I thought, you must have heardsomething from that vixen, my secret, for example! Then, after I kill you, I'llmake sure I finish that demoness off properly!""Di, did I step on a landmine!?"After spending a few minutes, he had finally managed to convince adistressed Liliana.Although he had, through much difficulty, conveyed his thoughts andfeeling to her, she still seemed to be in a great panic."In, in this time of crisis, 1 was, unintentionally overcome by a surge of idlethoughts, resulting in me writing those things. Please pretend you neversaw it. I'm begging you, please forget it somehow!"She cried out, teary-eyed.Though he felt that it was not some kind of secret that could never bedivulged, Godou nodded his head."Ah... Well, I feel that everyone has their own interests, it's no big deal,really."Godou irresponsibly threw out those words.He actually meant that it was not worth worrying over such trivial things.During the Meiji Era, when a head of the Kusanagi household had passedaway, his descendants had discovered a collection of roughly threethousand novels about his private life, and in them were written.... thatwhen he was on the receiving end of a scolding, or physical abuse from anexcessively young girl'-^^, he would derive masochistic pleasure during theexperience. During the family council, the decision that This shall beclassified as an erotic novel henceforth' was made, becoming acontroversial work. Comparing Liliana's work to that....No matter what, Godou patted her on the shoulder, as though he weretrying to console a child, and thus, Godou and Liliana, her eyes moist withtears, the distance between them had shortened.For some reason, the beautiful fairy-like girl, with tears in her eyes,seemed so much more fragile than her usual self, yet at the same time,she seemed so alluring.He could no longer see the girl who was stronger than him, morecourageous than him in front of him. Godou's protective instincts weretriggered, and he hastily turned away in embarrassment.Liliana too, seemed a little embarrassed herself, her cheeks a deep shadeof red.The atmosphere becoming more and more awkward by the second, theduo fell into silence. This isn't good, what should I - as he was thinking ofwhat to do, a voice suddenly called out towards them."Seems you've recovered from your wounds already, and returned to thesame old self, tenacious boy."Proud, dignified, and child-like, but still possessing the majesty of a Queen.Godou and Liliana raised their heads upwards.- Descending upon the dirty, little alley, was none other than [Heretic GodAthena].References1. t A nickname, it's written in katakana2. t The exact lines here were ^T^to'S^U & 5i$>il A U3. t She says this in a hurry.4. t Loli without saying loli.

Chapter 4 - The Man from the EastPart 1Between the Italian Peninsula, shaped like a long boot, and the island ofSardinia in the west was a vast area of ocean. This area could beconsidered as part of the Tyrrhenian Sea.One of the types of vessels that frequented these waters was, for example,ferries. These ferries went to places like Genoa, Palermo, Naples andCagliari in circumnavigation. There are also many yachts used for cruising.Because the natural resources of the sea were abundant, naturally therewill be fishing boats.In the early dawn, before sunrise, the catch obtained from the fishing netsthat were cast in the sea would be filled with many varieties of fishes.However, in the midst of a school of unmatured Pacific Bluefin tuna, therewas one lone human caught there.Having drifted for god knows how long in the Tyrrhenian Sea, beingswept here all the way from Naples, but was still energetic and in highspirits, if you would like to describe that life form as still being human, thatwould be perfectly fine.Untangling himself from the fishing net full of Pacific Bluefin tuna, heclimbed up onto the boat.Making himself at home without any permission, he sat down on the fishingboat, and said to the dumbfounded fishermen,"Fuu - 1 almost thought I was done for this time. Ah, would you mind givingme the direction to the nearest land from here? It's fine, I'm really good atswimming. Eh - you'll lend me a boat? Sorry for troubling you - 1 see I see,which region is this ocean in again? Sardinia? That's just great. Seems likethings are going to get more interesting!"From the time when Kusanagi Godou had vanished without a trace, onenight had passed.It was around nine plus in the morning when this was discovered, asArianna was worried when she found that he was not in his room, andsubsequently searched the whole villa, confirming that he was indeed notaround."What happened to Godou-san? Could he have gotten into an accident?""Hmmm, maybe I went a little overboard with my jokes - "In the rented villa on Sardinia, the girls were having a meeting in the livingroom. Yuri was pacing around the room in distress, and on her face was alook of worry.On the contrary. Erica was not particularly worried about it.That blockhead must have accumulated too much stress living in thisfemale dormitory-like environment, and thus decided to run away, it shouldbe enough if we let him relax for a few days. He was asking for GenaroGantz' contact information yesterday, there's a possibility he's already athis house by now.Thinking that everything was within her calculations. Erica's attitude wascalm and composed.After telling Arianna that there was no need to worry, she asked her for anespresso."Yuri, didn't I say it before? Godou is a delicate person inside, even thoughhe's like that, and because of that he needs some time to himselfoccasionally. And thus, we'll leave him alone for the time being.Afterwards, pulling him by the ears and bringing him back would be muchmore effective, anyway, he's someone who can survive wherever he goes,there's no need to worry about him."She said in a rather indifferent manner, to the Hime-Miko who could notcalm down.As she would someday become the wife of the [King], staying by his side,worrying over this sort of thing was not necessary."Is, is that so...""Although the person himself has no self-awareness, his true personality isstill somewhat haphazard. Conversely, that is why I can say that it's fine ifwe aren't overprotective of him.""I can understand what Erica-san is trying to say, but..."Yuri was very worried, and at tiiis moment Erica liad started to feel a sliglitbit of unease."Tliere is a strange throbbing witiiin my heart, as though he was draggedinto something dangerous, it is a dark premonition."IVIariya Yuri was a spirit vision user of the strongest disposition.Among Erica's friends that were of the same age group, Yuri was one ofthe few that were aclil A U 3. t She says this in a hurry. 4. t Loli without saying loli.