Baka-Tsuki - User contributions [en]

Unlimited Fafnir:Volume 7 Chapter 3

2015-05-21T15:18:53Z

119.95.227.249: /* Part 1 */

==Chapter 3 - Newborn Predator==

===Part 1===

Three years ago on that day, I was sitting by the river in a bad mood after an argument with Mitsuki over something trivial.

Grumbling while muttering to myself, I vented my emotions of annoyance while trying hard to calm myself.

My efforts bore fruit. By the time the evening breeze turned cool, my mind was already calm.

"—Please, stop following me."

Just as I was getting up, intending to return home, I heard a girl's voice.

Then a kitten purred and went "meow~", wanting to be doted upon.

I looked up at the river embankment, only to see a young girl walking on the road along the riverside, troubled by a kitten that insisted on following her.

"I only fed you once on a whim just now. There won't be a second time even if you follow me. I can't keep you either."

The girl looked the same age as me. She was talking seriously to the kitten, trying to convince it. She had a well-proportioned face and long black hair. Dressed in a chic and black one-piece dress... She was neither a girl I had met before nor a student at the same school as me.

"You'd better leave this town instead of begging food from me if you want to live. Otherwise—"

The girl continued to persuade the kitten seriously, but she stopped talking as soon as she noticed my gaze.

"...Anyway, don't follow me anymore."

The girl ended her speech halfway and quickly left the kitten. However, the kitten did not learn its lesson and ran after the girl on its short little legs.

I could not help but feel curious, following the girl and the kitten with my gaze. They seemed to be crossing the nearby bridge up ahead. Blocked by the bridge fencing, the kitten was out of sight.

At this moment, a large dump truck sped past along the riverside road. The cloud of black exhaust drifted over, making me cough a few times.

With heavy engine noise, the dump truck turned towards the bridge.

"Ah—"

After that, a small shadow jumped onto the fencing.

It was the kitten from just now.

It was unclear whether it had been frightened by the giant vehicle or it was trying to escape the truck's black emissions—From the riverside, I could not tell.

Having ascended to an unsteady footing, the kitten was apparently blown by the wind caused by the truck's passing. It lost balance and fell into the river.

The instant I saw that happen, I reflexively ran out. But when I ran, I witnessed an even more shocking scene.

As though chasing after the kitten, the girl from just now jumped from the bridge.

"What...!?"

I gasped, only to see a pillar of water rise with a splash. Although the river's surface was wide and the current was gentle, the water was very shallow. Jumping from the bridge and not getting injured was unlikely.

I took off my shoes and entered the river in search of the girl who had sunk into the water.

Immediately, some distance away, the girl stood up with a splash. Despite getting all drenched, she did not look injured. She was holding the kitten against her bosom too.

"Hey, are you okay!?"

I pushed through the water to head over to her. The girl cocked her head in puzzlement.

"...What are you doing?"

"What am I doing...? Well, I saw you fall into the river, so I came to rescue you."

"Really? So you're one of those nice guys."

The girl remarked with disinterest. Then she handed the kitten to me.

"Huh?"

"I'm leaving this cat in your care."

Declaring unilaterally, the girl walked to the shore.

"Hey... How can you decide on your own—"

I frantically called out but the girl simply looked back and said in a calm tone of voice:

"Take the cat and leave this town, because Hekatonkheir is coming tomorrow."

"Huh...? But the news this morning said that according to the current route, this town is safe—"

I asked in confusion but the girl shook her head.

"Human predictions are unreliable. All it takes is a change in a dragon's whims and this town will be destroyed."

"What...? Why do you know something like that?"

"Because—I am a dragon too."

The girl smiled, instantly causing a chill to run along my back and my legs to stiffen and shake nonstop.

While I was unable to move, the girl walked along the riverside and departed. On the other hand, I was standing in daze in the middle of the river, carrying the wet kitten, curled up in my arms—

===Part 2===

On my back, I felt a weight and feminine softness.

—Three years ago, the girl I met at the river must have been Kili.

Carrying the unconscious Kili while walking, I thought to myself.

Meeting her at Midgard was after my second deal with Yggdrasil. By then, I had already lost all memories related to Kili, which was why I failed to recognize her. Although Kili had used biogenic transmutation in the past to alter her appearance, judging from what happened three years ago, her current face should be her "real appearance." The others were merely disguises, I suppose.

"Mononobe-kun, can you walk a bit slower?"

While I was lost in thought, Ariella, who was carrying John on her back, called out to me.

"Oh, sorry."

I hastily slowed down. Ariella was the most physically fit among the girls but hurrying along while carrying a person on her back was tough work after all.

"Nii-san, there is no need to be so hasty because not many people pass by at this hour."

Mitsuki looked at the surroundings and said to me.

We intended to move Kili and John to Mitsuki's house. Since no one was currently living in Mitsuki's house, it was possible to hide Kili and John and prevent them from getting discovered.

Kili was deemed a disaster by NIFL. Furthermore, John had deserted Sleipnir for some unknown reason and was working with Kili. These two would get arrested immediately if they were taken to a public institution, which was why we could not call for an ambulance. But since both of them showed no visible injuries, it was probably fine.

Our top priority was questioning them, including the matter of the dragon mark changing color.

Since Kili's blood-covered appearance was too conspicuous, I used transmutation to create a simple coat for her to wear.

To conceal Kili and John, Iris and the rest of the girls walked around me and Ariella.

"......"

Vritra did not say a single word after seeing Kili, staying silent the whole time. With her head slightly lowered, she seemed to be contemplating something.

Just as Mitsuki pointed out, no one suspected us. In this manner, we reached home successfully.

Since the car was absent at my house, that meant Father had not returned from work yet. The faint aroma in the air probably came from Mother cooking dinner. Right now, no one was probably going to discover us carrying Kili and John into Mitsuki's house.

"Me~ow."

But the instant we opened the gate, I was startled by a cat's sound. I looked back to see the black cat Ohagi on the boundary wall, wagging its tail.

"Oh right... Back then, you were... So Ohagi, you're the kitten Kili saved."

Hearing me say that, Ohagi meowed as though answering yes.

Three years ago, at Kili's request, I had taken the kitten home. The next day, just as Kili predicted, Hekatonkheir approached the town. Without giving me much time to look after the kitten, even before I had a chance to give it a name, I was taken away.

Ohagi jumped down from the wall and approached my feet. It seemed quite interested in Kili whom I was carrying on my back. Perhaps it still remembered Kili who had saved it.

"Nii-san, what is going on?"

After hearing my mutterings, Mitsuki demanded an explanation.

"Three years ago, I came across Kili jumping into the river to rescue a kitten. Kili entrusted the kitten to me and asked me to run away, warning me Hekatonkheir was coming."

I briefly explained my encounter with Kili to everyone.

"The day before that incident, Kili-san..."

Despite feeling surprised, Mitsuki still turned her key and opened the door at the entryway. We entered the house and Ohagi followed along. Thus, we made our way to the master bedroom on the second floor used by Lisa, Firill and Tia.

After we laid Kili and John on the large two-person bed for them to sleep, Mitsuki went to tell Mother we had returned.

"...Kili-san's dragon mark definitely started changing in color."

While waiting for Mitsuki, Lisa stared at Kili's right hand and commented.

"But why on earth? Isn't Vritra the only dragon remaining?"

Firill glanced sideways at Vritra.

"—I am not the one who selected her. Moreover, without needing a mate, I am able to produce offspring inheriting mine authority."

Vritra spoke, staring at the dragon mark whose edges had turned purple. Offspring inheriting her authority—That most likely meant us, the Ds.

"Then what exactly chose Kili?"

"Mm..."

Ariella cocked her head in puzzlement and Ren concurred.

"Mononobe..."

Iris tugged my clothing. Lisa also looked at me. Her eyes seemed to be trying to convey a message.

They both knew of another dragon. Namely, Midgard's principal, Charlotte B. Lord—the "Gray" Vampire.

Nevertheless, I shook my head because I really could not imagine her selecting Kili.

Calling herself the guardian of humanity, she had devoted all her efforts towards protecting Ds. I did not think she would do something like this. Furthermore, this color was—

"A dragon mark's change in color will depend on the targeting dragon. Tia's was red, Firill's was yellow. If it's purple... Isn't that the Kraken?"

Tia spoke hesitantly. This thought must have occurred to everyone present, but...

"The purple dragon, 'Purple' Kraken, was exterminated two years ago, so that is impossible."

Lisa rejected Tia's suggestion on everyone's behalf while displaying a slightly mournful demeanor.

Two years ago, during the Kraken battle, her classmate, a girl named Shinomiya Miyako, had been selected and turned into a dragon.

Although Mitsuki had defeated the two dragons, it left immense trauma in everyone's hearts.

"That's true... Then it's unrelated to the Kraken."

Tia sighed and conceded but at this time, someone spoke from the bed.

"—No, Tia's conclusion is correct."

I took a closer look to see Kili opening her eyes slightly, looking in our direction.

"Kili!? You woke up!"

I approached the bed, looking at Kili's face.

"...Yes, because I heard talking."

Kili smiled and nodded. Originally waiting next to a wall in the room, Ohagi instantly came near and jumped lightly onto the bed.

"Me~ow."

Ohagi rubbed its forehead against Kili's cheek. Seeing this, Kili partially closed her eyes in nostalgia.

"It grew up."

Hearing me say that, Kili widened her eyes in surprise.

"Really? So you remembered what happened three years ago."

"Yeah."

"Why now...? You clearly had no idea when we met in Midgard."

Kili glared at me, somewhat displeased. When transferring into Midgard as Tachibana Honoka, she had used her current appearance—Perhaps she had the intent of wanting me to remember her.

"To be honest, Yggdrasil was eating away at my memories. I only remembered after Tia cancelled it for me."

Kili sighed in realization after listening to my explanation.

"So something like that had happened—Yuu... What is this cat's name...?"

"It's Ohagi."

"...Sounds like quite a delicious name."

Kili smiled wryly and petted Ohagi on the head. Seeing Ohagi purring in pleasure, Kili shifted her gaze to John who was lying beside her.

"How is he?"

"Oh right, he's fine, only unconscious. Although we didn't conduct a full-body diagnosis."

Ariella, the one who carried John here, was the one who answered. I felt that she was trying to say something between the lines, but Kili seemed to understand and exhaled in relief.

"Is that so...? I'm glad to hear that. I need him to survive and return the favor after forcing me to do something so risky."

"Kili, what the heck happened? You just said Tia's conclusion is correct..."

I asked her cautiously. The smile vanished from Kili's face.

"Earlier, I was tracking John's... whereabouts. The trail started at the barricaded Asgard lab, left behind by something's movements, so I followed the clues. Finally, there—I discovered ''it''."

"It?"

"A monster wrapped in silver threads. The threads are most likely made of mithril. Furthermore, the monster has the ability to release antimatter. I barely managed to rescue John from its clutches then escaped here."

Everyone gasped after listening to Kili.

"Mithril and antimatter? That is practically... the 'Purple' Kraken, isn't it!?"

Lisa cried out in surprise.

"Yes, so I believe Tia is correct. Perhaps that's—!?"

Kili nodded in agreement. Just as she was about to say something, she frowned and brought her right hand before her face.

"What is this...?"

Kili gasped and examined her dragon mark that was changing in color. It looked like she only noticed the change now.

"—To think that this situation hath arisen now, when all mine original plans were foiled."

Originally standing behind our group, Vritra walked up to the front at this time.

"...Who are you?"

"Recognize me not? Daughter of mine?"

Seeing Kili frown, Vritra smiled sardonically at her.

"No way—Mother?"

Kili looked shocked while staring at the young girl who greatly resembled her.

"Indeed. I created this stand-in to hold a discussion with Yggdrasil... But if what thou sayst is true, mayhap I did something redundant."

Vritra spoke while looking at Kili's dragon mark. She smiled. She looked delighted from the bottom of her heart—A grin of glee. A chill rushed along my spine.

"Mother...?"

Even Kili was unable to fathom what Vritra was thinking and groaned with a stiff expression. At this moment, frantic footsteps arrived outside the room.

"Bad news, everyone!"

Mitsuki opened the door and rushed in, crying out with her face gone pale.

"What's the matter? Mitsuki-chan?"

Iris asked the panting Mitsuki.

"I received a call from Shinomiya-sensei just now..."

Holding her portable terminal in her right hand, Mitsuki swept her gaze across us in the room.

Then she took a deep breath to calm herself and continued:

"—Sensei says that the Kraken's juvenile form is currently heading to this town."

===Part 3===

'Asgard apparently preserved the Kraken's corpse underground at the research lab we were at.'

On the screen of the portable terminal Mitsuki was holding on her palm, Shinomiya-sensei explained the situation to us with a bitter expression.

Gathered around Mitsuki, we exclaimed in surprise, but what came next shocked us even more.

'One part of the corpse exhibited lingering signs of biological activity. Researchers hypothesized that it could be the Kraken's offspring.'

"The Kraken's offspring... Wouldn't that be Miyako's—"

Mitsuki's voice trembled. Shinomiya-sensei nodded gravely.

'Due to becoming a mate, having offspring would not be unexpected—That is probably what they think.'

"A child born from a union with a dragon..."

Iris murmured with undisguised disgust. The other girls seemed to feel a chill, hugging themselves as a result.

'What exhibited signs of biological activity, a part of a tentacle, was kept under extremely low temperature. While it was kept under those conditions, there were evidently no changes of note.'

Kept under extremely low temperature...?

I recalled the ''coffin'' I had seen at Miyazawa Kenya's lab. Inside that freezer-like facility, there was a coffin kept under strict security. He had told me it was a human cadaver—

"...Onii-chan."

Ren apparently recalled the same thing. She looked at me with serious eyes.

"Shinomiya-sensei—I think I might know about that storage location."

'What?'

"Director Miyazawa led me to a room that was like a freezer, asking me to spread Ether Wind around the coffin that was kept there. He said it was a human cadaver... The manifested soul also looked like a human girl... Could that be—"

I stopped here. Immediately, Mitsuki continued in hoarse voice:

"Nii-san, are you saying that it was the soul of Miyako after she became a Kraken?"

"I believe it's possible. Now that I think back, the impression I got from her was quite similar to Shinomiya-sensei."

I spoke while recalling that soul's outline, formed from particles.

'...I will pursue that matter separately with Director Miyazawa. Let us discuss unconfirmed information later. Right now, I only wish to discuss facts.'

Shinomiya-sensei spoke in stiff tone of voice. Seeing as Shinomiya Miyako was her little sister, I would expect her to feel turmoil inside. But as Midgard's commander, she continued to explain:

'Yggdrasil was causing electrical interference over a wide area during the previous battle. Due to this, even the lab's backup power supply was cut off completely. Naturally, cooling equipment stopped functioning. Reportedly, a few hours later, the juvenile Kraken hatched.'

"Originally in a state of suspended animation under low temperature, then becoming active because of the rise in temperature huh...?"

Ariella wondered with her arms crossed.

'The chain of cause and effect is uncertain at the moment, so there could be other factors too. Regardless, the juvenile Kraken wrecked the lab after waking up and escaped to the ground surface. That happened roughly thirty-six hours ago.'

Shinomiya-sensei's tone of voice conveyed strong anxiety and sarcasm.

"...Asgard intends to cover this up."

Firill said with a sigh.

'Indeed, it would deal a severe blow to the organization's credibility if this incident came to light. Hence, Asgard ordered NIFL to act, intending to clean up while keeping all information under control.'

Lisa forced a smile after hearing Shinomiya-sensei.

"However, now that they are passing the information to us, it implies that... Their operation to handle the situation secretly has failed."

'—Indeed. The forces they deployed were completely routed. Running out of options, they sought Midgard's aid. Although it is quite late at this point, we can't ignore them either. Also, the juvenile Kraken suddenly changed directions and started heading towards your town.'

After saying this, Shinomiya-sensei gazed at us from the other side of the screen.

'There are limited reasons why a dragon would act in this manner. Among you, has anyone's dragon mark exhibited changes?'

"Well, Shinomiya-sensei, regarding this matter..."

Mitsuki raised her hand and told her about us taking in Kili, whose dragon mark had changed in color. During the process, Mitsuki threw a glance at Vritra in the corner of the room but did not report about her or John.

That was probably in consideration of the fact that Asgard or NIFL might be eavesdropping on the call. If news of Vritra spread, her discussion with Tia might get obstructed. With that, there was a possibility that Vritra, who had made a rare gesture to talk in peace, would turn into an enemy.

As for Kili, it was already decided during the Hraesvelgr battle that Midgard would protect her. Hence, even if NIFL were to found out, our stance would still remain unchanged.

'...I understand the situation now. Brynhildr Class will stay on standby over there together with Kili. A helicopter will head over to your side soon.'

Shinomiya-sensei issued orders in a grave tone of voice, biting her lip with an expression as though she was enduring something. Then she called Mitsuki's name as though forcing a voice out.

'Mononobe Mitsuki—'

"...I understand. If the enemy is the juvenile Kraken, then my antimatter projectiles will undoubtedly be able to vanquish it. I have already resolved myself. No problem."

Mitsuki clenched her fist and spoke resolutely.

'Is that so? I am counting on you.'

Shinomiya-sensei bowed her head sorrowfully in supplication then ended the call.

The room fell into silence. Everyone had their hands full, simply taking in the situation.

"Mitsuki-san... Will you really be alright?"

Lisa showed care to Mitsuki with an uneasy expression.

"Yes—The enemy is not Miyako's child but the Kraken's juvenile form. Not a human but totally just a dragon. Hence... I can do it."

Mitsuki answered as though persuading herself. Seeing Mitsuki like that, no one could say anything more on the matter.

However, I—after retrieving many memories, the current me... was able to sense Mitsuki's hesitation.

Despite looking like she had resolved herself, Mitsuki's heart was still indecisive.

"Mitsuki—"

Sensing her unease, I reached out to Mitsuki but she picked up the black cat Ohagi in her arms and walked to the bedroom's door.

"Before the helicopter arrives, we will first have dinner, everyone. The food is already ready."

After urging the girls and Vritra to go eat, Mitsuki looked at the remaining Kili.

"Kili-san, please stay here. I will bring food shortly after. If John wakes up, I would like you to help explain the situation to him."

"...Sure."

Kili answered in a slightly stiff tone of voice, then looked at Vritra warily.

Silent the whole time, Vritra left the room without saying a word. Although her silence felt somewhat bizarre to me, I still followed and departed.

===Part 4===

"You really have it tough, having to work even at this late hour."

"Although I'm not sure what's going on... Please be careful, all of you."

Father and Mother were worriedly seeing us off at the entryway. Night had fallen in this area with more stars shining in the sky than in Tokyo.

"Yes, Father and Mother. We will set off now."

Mitsuki nodded with a tense expression, turned around, and left. The rest of us also say goodbye and exited the house.

We had been notified just now that the helicopter had arrived in the nearby park. Leaving Kili in this town, we were setting off to take down the juvenile Kraken.

We were supposed to hide Kili in a NIFL base but considering past precedent, it was impossible to trust NIFL. Since they might attempt to execute Kili, our only choice was to shore up defenses over here instead.

"So, Tia-san, Lisa-san and Firill-san—the rest will be up to you now."

Mitsuki stopped in front of the house next door and spoke to the trio.

Tia was in charge of restraining Vritra whose objective was still unknown. Lisa and Firill were in charge of guarding and monitoring Kili.

Dividing our forces was admittedly disadvantageous, but there was no other choice considering the possibility that Kili might be attacked. That being said, Mitsuki was probably more wary of Vritra than NIFL's interference. I also felt a sense of danger that she must not be left to roam free.

Silent during dinner, Vritra currently had her head lowered while staying at our side.

"Just leave Vritra to Tia!"

Perhaps sensing my unease, Tia spoke cheerfully and accepted her mission.

Then after examining Vritra's reaction briefly, she drew near my face and said:

"...As soon as Vritra makes any sign of generating dark matter, Tia will steal it right away. Tia will definitely succeed like Yggdrasil."

Tia whispered an additional explanation.

"We will take care and not allow Kili-san to act recklessly."

"Even if someone attacks, we'll defeat them."

Lisa and Firill replied to Mitsuki, but as soon as Mitsuki left, they immediately waved to me.

"Mononobe Yuu... I entrust Mitsuki-san in your care."

"Mononobe-kun... You must watch Mitsuki carefully and prevent her from pushing herself too far."

Having known Mitsuki for so long, the two girls seemed to have reached the same conclusions as me that Mitsuki was currently very unstable.

"—Leave it to me. I will protect Mitsuki for sure."

I had already resolved myself to do that, so I nodded firmly.

Starting three years ago—No, even before that... Ever since Mitsuki lost her parents, left all alone, I had decided to protect her.

No matter what kind of sacrifice, even if it meant losing precious memories, I had always upheld that determination of mine.

By this point, that way of living was not going to falter.

"Yuu."

I heard someone call to me. I looked up to see Kili gazing down from the second floor window.

"Will you sincerely protect me this time?"

Kili asked me as though testing my reaction.

During the Hraesvelgr battle, I had failed to protect her. Had Kili's dragon mark been suitable for Hraesvelgr, she would have turned into a dragon at the time.

"Yeah, I definitely will."

I was not going to repeat the same failure. With this determination, I nodded and promised her.

"...I believe you."

Kili's expression showed faint joy while she waved goodbye to me.

Just as she withdrew back into the room, I looked at Vritra.

"Vritra, right now... Are you pleased?"

My question caused Vritra's shoulders to shake once.

She gradually looked up. Her facial expression—was blank. No emotions surfaced.

My back kept breaking out in cold sweat. My body was instinctively reacting warily against what could not be understood.

"I don't know your objective, but... Even if the current situation is in your favor, I don't think you're someone who could feel joy from the bottom of your heart when sacrificing your daughter—sacrificing Kili."

"...Wherefore?"

Vritra asked me expressionlessly.

"Because after spending a whole day with you, I believe we might be able to understand each other. Iris definitely hopes you could understand and respect humans."

I glanced at Iris who was listening to the conversation from the side.

"Vritra-chan..."

Iris looked at Vritra with an uneasy expression.

"..."

Vritra silently avoided her gaze.

"Nii-san, Iris-san, time to go."

Mitsuki hurried us. Before setting off, I added one final thing.

"Let's go for ice cream again after we return."

"—"

She did not answer.

However, I believed this one-sided promise would be upheld for sure. Then I turned around and departed with my back to the dragon girl.

Pushing through the crowd of onlookers who had gathered around the park, we boarded the helicopter and were taken to a NIFL staging area.

It was very noisy with many soldiers walking around. Dressed in school uniform, we looked especially conspicuous, but the soldiers did not stare at us. Not only that, they were overtly shifting their gazes away, pretending not to see us.

They most likely could tell we were Ds. I had forgotten because everyone I was in contact with recently were understanding of Ds, but this was actually people's typical reaction to Ds. It was very hard not to feel fear towards beings possessing superhuman powers.

Not bringing Kili along was the correct decision after all.

"...Onii-chan."

Ren tugged my clothing uneasily.

"It's okay, don't mind them."

"...Mm."

I held Ren's hand and smiled at her. Slightly reassured, she nodded in response.

"Mononobe... Everyone feels so nervous."

Iris could feel the tension in the air and whispered to me.

"Because they just fought the juvenile Kraken and were routed. I guess they suffered quite heavy losses."

I lowered my voice to prevent the soldiers in charge of leading us from overhearing.

"I'm not too clear on what happened two years ago, but nothing works on the Kraken unless we rely on Mitsuki's antimatter, right? It seems too reckless of them to fight using NIFL alone, or perhaps... There was some reason why they originally thought they could win?"

Listening to Iris' conversation with me, Ariella cocked her head incredulously.

"...We won't know until we hear the detailed report. However, it's also possible that this Kraken is different from the ones two years ago."

I offered my opinion and Ariella nodded "that's true too."

Mitsuki did not join our conversation. With a solemn demeanor, she walked silently. She had been like that the whole time since boarding the helicopter.

As much as I wanted to talk to Mitsuki, before I could think of an appropriate topic, we were taken to a room in a building. It was a small conference room. In front of a monitor installed straight ahead, Shinomiya-sensei was waiting for us with a serious expression.

"Good work getting here. Then I'll start the explanation of the current situation."

After we sat down on the front row, Shinomiya-sensei dispensed with pleasantries and began to explain to us.

"Asgard has named the Kraken's juvenile form 'Kraken Zwei,' which we will use henceforth. The target is currently heading to Nanato City where you were staying, moving in the mountains at a speed of four kilometers per hour."

"Four kilometers per hours is quite slow. That's about the same as our normal walking speed."

Ariella remarked in surprise.

"That stems from Kraken Zwei's size. Perhaps because it's newly born, the target is very tiny."

After saying that, Shinomiya-sensei showed a video on the monitor. A silver object could be seen in the middle of a crater gouged out of the ground. The object was an elongated oval with silver threads spreading from its base in a radial pattern.

"This is Kraken Zwei's appearance. Although the body length is less than two meters, the silver threads can attack up to dozens of meters in range. Furthermore, the main body seems impervious to all attacks, wrapped in the cocoon of silver threads."

Looking at he Kraken shown on the monitor, Mitsuki spoke up:

"The original Kraken had tentacles of mithril. Assuming this Kraken Zwei inherited that trait, I expect the threads to be extremely fine strands of mithril."

"—I hold the same opinion. Furthermore, it is already confirmed that Kraken Zwei can likewise fire antimatter like the original."

Shinomiya-sensei supported Mitsuki's view and displayed a new photo on the monitor. The photo showed part of the silver strands from the cocoon opening up, during the very moment when a blinding flash was released.

"Its defenses are partially lowered when firing antimatter... This is the same as the original too. I expect they have already attempted to seize that opening to attack?"

"They did, but reportedly failed. The target is extremely observant, capable of reacting to any attack with precision no matter what."

Shinomiya-sensei continued in a grave tone of voice after replying:

"Hence, the most effective method is to use antimatter to destroy everything outright along with the mithril shield."

"Yes."

Mitsuki nodded deeply in agreement. At this moment, Iris raised her hand.

"Umm... Won't my Catastrophe work?"

"Indeed, Catastrophe is a powerful means of attack but the weathering of mithril is extremely time consuming. Just as we used mithril to resist Basilisk's attacks, the chances of the beam getting blocked are very high."

Iris went "Oh I see..." and put her hand down after listening to Shinomiya-sensei's answer. Iris evidently wanted to use her power to ease Mitsuki's burden.

"Since methods are limited, the operation is exceedingly simple. You will approach the target while NIFL draws its attention using unmanned drones. Mononobe Mitsuki will fire antimatter projectiles while I hope the rest of you will provide support."

Shinomiya-sensei outlined the plan concisely. Indeed, there was nothing simpler than this operation.

"In more concrete terms, what does support mean we have to do?"

Ariella raised a question and Shinomiya-sensei answered in a serious tone of voice:

"Do everything you can to adapt to the changing situation. Your mithril shields should be able to defend against attacks from the silver threads made of the same material. Mononobe Yuu's antigravity is the only means to defend against antimatter attacks. Iris Freyja's Catastrophe should be able to pin down the enemy even if it is blocked. Ren Miyazawa's massive dark matter generating capacity should help in breaking out of emergencies."

Shinomiya-sensei looked at each of our faces in sequence while directing the operation.

"—Any other questions? If not, the operation will begin right away. I hope the battle can be settled while the target is on the mountain."

I looked over the members of the group. No one seemed to have any objections.

—Was it okay to leave things to Mitsuki like this?

Although this sense of unease occupied my heart, I could not reject the current plan on grounds of emotions without providing an alternative solution.

"Then let the operation begin."

"—Yes ma'am!"

In any case, I'll protect Mitsuki from the side—Making that decision, I nodded in response to Shinomiya-sensei's command.

===Part 5===

Following the NIFL drones, we flew through the night sky.

Lacking flying skills, Iris and I were carried by Ren and Ariella respectively. As the key personnel in the operation, Mitsuki was flying alone.

In order to be able to attack from long range, the goggles issued to us were equipped with telescope functions in addition to communications. It was the same type that Lisa had used for sniping during the Basilisk battle in the past.

Although the goggles also provided night vision, the NIFL drones would fire flares for illumination once the operation began, so there was no need for us to use such functionality.

"...So dark, down there."

While transporting me, Ren looked down at the ground.

"It's all mountains nearby, so it's definitely suitable for a battlefield."

Since both sides were going to be firing antimatter at each other, damage to the environment would be unavoidable. Hence, I could understand Shinomiya-sensei's determination to end the battle before the target reached urban areas.

"—Although the drones definitely lowered their speed, keeping up with aircraft is actually pretty tough."

In the middle of transporting Iris, Ariella commented with sweat appearing on her brow.

The outlines of the three drones flying in front could not be seen due to the darkness of the sky, but we were able to use the red lights on the drones as beacons, moving at high speed.

"Shinomiya-sensei said the target's not very far, so we'll surely get there soon. Hang in there, Ariella-chan!"

Iris encouraged the exhausted Ariella.

At this moment, Shinomiya-sensei happened to speak on the communicator.

'You are about to arrive at the combat zone. Kraken Zwei is currently engaged in battle against NIFL's ground weapons. Slow down your flying and let the drones go first. Once the flares are up and the target comes into view, Mononobe Mitsuki will attack using antimatter.'

"—Affirmative."

Just as we replied, a huge explosion happened ahead.

The starry sky instantly turned white while we heard a heavy explosion.

While we slowed down, the drones pulled ahead and flew towards the explosion's location.

Several seconds later, multiple light sources appeared in the sky, apparently flares, illuminating the surrounding scenery.

Perhaps the result of ground weaponry in combat, the land in the vicinity had turned barren with multiple large craters superimposed on one another. A large patch of the mountain forest had been gouged out.

And in the center, a small silver entity was reflecting light from the flares.

"That's—"

I operated my goggles to magnify the image.

The same silver cocoon as what we had seen in the conference room monitor—Kraken Zwei, all covered by threads of mithril.

The drones circled in the air above it and started attacking with machine guns, but of course, that level of firepower was all deflected by the mithril cocoon.

Then just as the machine gun barrage concluded, purple light flashed from a gap in the cocoon. The small projectile of light sank into a drone, then immediately caused a giant explosion far surpassing a flare's brightness. It was most likely attacking with antimatter.

Caught in the annihilating explosion, a second drone exploded next, leaving only one.

"—Commence sniping!"

Mitsuki shouted acutely then raised her fictional armament of a bow—Brionac. Once all the drones were shot down, there would be no diversions left. Mitsuki had no time to waste.

Nocking an arrow of dark matter to the bow, Mitsuki aimed at the target.

Although I could see nervousness and a stiff demeanor from the side of her face, there was the light of fierce resolve in her eyes

"It is a dragon, an enemy that must be defeated."

Mitsuki persuaded herself while drawing the bow.

The final remaining drone suddenly stopped unnaturally in the air. Upon closer examination, I could see shining silver threads entangling the fuselage.

—Could the threads of mithril extend that far?

According to Shinomiya-sensei, the range was dozens of meters but from what I could see, it looked like almost a hundred meters.

Perhaps deciding defense was no longer essential after restraining the drone, the cocoon swiftly unraveled.

Purple light could be seen from the gradually expanding gaps.

I had seen reference photographs of the Kraken during lectures at Midgard. A monster with a giant purple eyeball and countless tentacles—That was what the Kraken looked like.

Hence, I always thought the "inside" protected by the silver cocoon would be something similar.

However—

"Eh...?"

Mitsuki exclaimed in surprise.

Iris, the others and I all gasped in surprise.

Emerging from the cocoon was a young girl. The exceptionally long silver hair writhed as though it had a will of its own. Only then did I realize that the silver threads constituting the cocoon was actually her hair.

Although naked, she had part of her hair wrapped around her body. Younger than Tia in appearance. Her left eye was covered her long bangs.

The exposed right eye was glowing purple. The instant that light intensified, a beam shot at the drone. With a flash of light tearing through the sky, afterimages were left on the retinas of observers.

Then with a massive explosion and noise, struck by the glowing projectile, the drone was devoured by the light of annihilation.

Then the girl looked in our direction with her eye that had released light of destruction.

"...We're discovered!?"

The instant our gazes met, I felt a chill rush along my spine. Instantly creating my fictional armament of a gun, I prepared to fire antigravity bullets any time.

"Mitsuki! We'll get taken out unless you attack soon!"

Ariella called out anxiously.

However, Mitsuki did not move, frozen in her pose with the fictional armament of a bow raised. Kraken Zwei seemed to be examining us in return without attacking immediately.

But time was probably in short supply for hesitation.

"Wrong..."

Mitsuki murmured to herself in a trembling voice.

"Mitsuki-chan—The Kraken is looking at us!"

Iris alerted of danger in an urgent voice, but Mitsuki kept shaking her head while trembling.

"Wrong... It is wrong."

"What is 'wrong'—"

"That is not the Kraken!"

Mitsuki interrupted Iris and yelled.

"Hmm... I get what you're trying to say, but if you don't make a move—"

Ariella hurried Mitsuki in a stiff tone of voice.

"I know! But... But no matter how I look..."

Accompanied by tears appearing in the corners of her eyes, Mitsuki's voice trembled.

"That is... She is—Miyako's child!!"

Mitsuki cried out hoarsely.

In the form of a young girl, Kraken Zwei had an extremely lovely face. The impression I got was very similar to Shinomiya-sensei's.

But what Mitsuki saw in the girl's face was probably the image of her best friend in the past, Shinomiya Miyako.

"...Mitsuki, let's withdraw for now."

Making the judgment call that Mitsuki was unable to fire at the girl, I suggested a retreat.

"Withdraw?"

Mitsuki was taken aback for a moment. Then relief appeared on her face.

However, she immediately came to a sudden realization, bit her lip hard and shook her head.

"No... Even so, I have no choice but to do it... I am the only one capable of defeating her..."

Despite looking like she was about to cry, Mitsuki refused to back down.

"Mitsuki-chan...?"

Iris watched her in worry.

"Sorry, everyone, I have put on an embarrassing display. However... I am fine now."

Despite the blow to her psyche, Mitsuki still barely managed to support herself with her sense of duty and obligation as the captain of the Counter-Dragon Squad.

"Even if it is not a dragon, by my own hand, I must... Just like that time with Miyako—"

With trembling hands, Mitsuki tried to aim her arrow at the target.

However—Mitsuki suddenly lost balance and dropped in altitude.

"Huh...?"

Mitsuki was shocked. The fictional armament in her hand turned into black bubbles and started to disappear.

"Why—"

Dark matter was controlled by the mind. A so-called fictional armament was the mind's combat state.

—Sure enough, Mitsuki could not do it.

Because no matter how much she bluffed, Mitsuki was internally resisting the idea of vanquishing Kraken Zwei.

"Ren, fly over to near Mitsuki!"

I called out to Ren who was holding my left hand to support me in the air.

Mitsuki could not sustain her flying due to her fictional armament beginning to collapse.

"Mm!"

Ren instantly realized in alarm and nodded to me in response, then approached Mitsuki.

"Mitsuki, grab onto Ren!"

I shouted to Mitsuki who was about to fall to the ground.

"—!"

Mitsuki clung to Ren's neck and managed to avoid falling, but... even without physical injuries, her mind was not in a state capable of fighting.

"Sorry... Sorry..."

Mitsuki pressed her face against the front of Ren's chest and kept apologizing.

Was she sorry for failing to fulfill her duties? Or was she feeling remorse for Shinomiya Miyako? I could not tell.

"—It's okay, Mitsuki-chan."

The one who spoke to Mitsuki was Iris, hovering in the air through Ariella's assistance.

"I will fight in your stead, Mitsuki-chan."

Iris raised her free hand, which started glowing red. It was the light of Catastrophe, capable of weathering all substances within its range of influence.

"Caduceus Catastrophe!"

A staff of red light manifested in Iris' hand.

Pointing the staff's tip at Kraken Zwei, Iris recited something like an incantation:

"Come, come, fragments of time..."

Seeing the red staff glow progressively brighter, I asked Iris:

"Iris, you can bring yourself to do it?"

"Yes, because even though it looks like a girl... That's the dragon targeting Kili-chan, the enemy that must be defeated. Also—"

Iris paused, looked at Mitsuki and smiled.

"—I want to protect Mitsuki-chan. This is for her sake and yours."

I could feel from Iris' tone of voice that she truly wished for Mitsuki and my happiness. Just like her joy when my memories recovered, Iris smiled and ignored her own ''pain''.

With eyes burning with the light of fierce resolve, Iris turned her gaze back to Kraken Zwei.

The dazzling red light at the staff's tip expanded, but at this moment, I saw several black spheres appear around Kraken Zwei.

—Don't tell me that's dark matter!?

"Catastrophe, actualize!!"

While I was holding my breath, Iris released the time-stealing light.

However, just as that brightness dazzled me, I saw them. I saw the black spheres change in shape, manifesting a silver shield in front of Kraken Zwei—

Unerringly, the red light of Iris' Catastrophe devoured the spot where the girl was standing.

Unprecedented in scale... A gigantic beam of Catastrophe was fired, possibly surpassing that of Basilisk's.

"Amazing... This might be able to destroy it together with the mithril defenses."

Ariella exclaimed, impressed.

Mithril was the most stable alloy and highly resistant against Catastrophe. Be that as it may, it could not escape the weathering caused by time.

The surrounding rocks, soil and collapsed trees were turned into fine sand. The location exposed to the red light was gradually turned into a desert. Changes that originally required thousands, tens of thousands of years were completed in an instant.

Nevertheless, a silver object rushed out from the giant beam of light that stole time persistently.

It was Kraken Zwei, the girl whose body was completely wrapped in hair of mithril.

"No! She's still alive!"

I raised Siegfried, my gun-shaped fictional armament, and yelled.

She had most likely used transmutation to create a mithril shield to buy a bit of time in order to retreat from Catastrophe's line of fire.

"...!"

Iris hastily tried to correct her aim, but before that, a purple light flashed from a gap in the girl's hair.

"Antigravity!"

In that instant, I used all the dark matter in my fictional armament, firing it as a bullet.

The bullet of dark matter transmuted into high-density antigravitational matter along the way, generating a repulsive field nearby. Immediately, Kraken Zwei's beam of light was deflected greatly, disappearing into the distant night sky.

But at the same time, the repulsive field also distorted Catastrophe's trajectory, so Iris stopped firing the beam for now. Standing at the girl's former position was a silver shield with a large hole in its center.

"Someone hurry and deploy a smokescreen—block her view! We have to retreat to the ground for now!"

"Mm!"

Ren immediately answered my call.

Accompanied by an explosion of "bang," smoke shrouded the surroundings. Hiding inside the smoke, we descended to the ground.

We landed in the forest, escaped from Kraken Zwei's view and breathed out deeply. Although the forest was totally dark at night and the humid air was sticking to our skin, it was incomparably better than getting sniped by antimatter projectiles.

"Mononobe... What do we do next?"

Iris checked on Mitsuki while asking me. Holding onto Ren, Mitsuki did not look up.

"Most likely, she—can also control dark matter. If she uses transmutation to replenish mithril, then even Iris' Catastrophe won't be able to breach her defenses."

"In that case, we have no choice but to retreat..."

Ariella murmured after listening to me.

"Wait! If we run away like this without achieving anything, NIFL might try to kill Kili-chan. Then Lisa-chan and the others together with her will be in danger. We must pin down Kraken Zwei here at least!"

Iris interrupted Ariella in a strong tone of voice and raised her red staff. Precisely because she had experienced being a target in the past, she poignantly understood the urgency of the current crisis.

"Pin her down... How do we do that?"

After hearing Ariella's question, someone spoke next to me.

"Onii-chan, I have an idea..."

"Ren?"

I saw Ren looking up at me with a serious expression.

"If the ground that's turned to sand is weathered further, a hole should appear. We can drop a large amount of mithril over the hole... Bury her alive."

"Even if you suggest burying her alive... But with antimatter shots—"

"She probably won't use it because she'll get caught in the explosions when firing antimatter while buried."

After listening to Ren's answer, I knew it was the best method.

"Right, if we use mithril as a lid, even mithril strands won't be able to cut it open easily. Escaping will be a challenge. If it works out, let alone pinning her down, we might even be able to seal her away completely."

We looked at one another, nodding in agreement.

"After Iris opens up a hole in the ground, I'll borrow dark matter from Ren to cast down a large amount of mithril. Mitsuki should wait here."

After saying that, Ariella took Iris and flew up into the air again.

Just as I was about to return to the sky with Ren, Mitsuki looked up in her depression.

"Nii-san—"

Mitsuki called out hoarsely, extending her hand helplessly.

"Don't worry, Mitsuki. We'll find a way to handle the rest."

"......Yes."

Mitsuki bit her lip in chagrin, lowered her head then nodded slightly.

"Let's go, everyone."

Leaving her behind, the rest of us carried out the plan devised by Ren.

—Siegfried.

I constructed my fictional armament again to guard against enemy attacks.

The instant we increased in altitude, purple light flew at us.

It was Kraken Zwei's antimatter shot.

—It's coming!

"Antigravity!"

The expected attack was deflected to a different direction by my bullet of repulsion. Then Iris fired Catastrophe immediately.

"Catastrophe, actualize!"

Simultaneously, Kraken Zwei created a mithril shield while the red beam was shot.

But that was fine, because Iris' target was the surrounding ground.

Already turned to sand, the land turned into tiny particles and dissipated.

Land erosion—The land, literally worn away by weather, was gradually gouged away. Then with a deep and heavy sound, the ground rumbled.

Next came even more intense shaking.

Perhaps the weathering had reached deep underground. The ground collapsed over a wide area.

Together with her shield, Kraken Zwei was swallowed into the collapsing ground.

"Now is the time!"

"I know, Mononobe-kun!"

Without missing this opportunity, Ariella used dark matter borrowed from Ren to create a vast amount of mithril.

The silver rocks covered up the created hole while the deep rumbling reached the heavens. A cloud of dust shrouded the area.

"Anyway... Plan succeeded?"

Ariella breathed a sigh of relief and asked.

Even after waiting for a while, we did not see any changes in the blocks of mithril plugging the hole. Just as Ren predicted, using antimatter to escape would be very difficult.

"Yeah, although we didn't manage to defeat her, if the outcome is like this—"

Iris dispelled the red staff in her hand and wiped sweat from her brow.

"—Shinomiya-sensei, what do we do?"

Through the communicator, I called to our commander, Shinomiya-sensei.

'Everyone back to base. Leave the situation for NIFL's unmanned military hardware to survey and analyze.'

Shinomiya-sensei issued orders to us.

"—Affirmative!"

"Mm."

Ariella and Ren immediately responded and started to descend to where Mitsuki was waiting.

Enveloped in Ren's wind, I stared at the silver rocks that were sealing Kraken Zwei away.

If possible, I hoped she would stay there quietly underground and not come out.

Whether Mitsuki... Or Iris, as long as the situation permitted, I did not want them to dirty their hands.

That dragon looked far too human.

One knew just from appearance that she was half-human—in other words, a D.

I could not help but hope in my heart that it might be possible to communicate with her.

But now that she had targeted Kili, we could only be enemies.

Because from the perspective of Ds, dragons pursuing mates were natural predators that must be defeated.

===Part 6===

"—I am terribly sorry."

Back to the NIFL base, Mitsuki bowed her head deeply and apologized to Shinomiya-sensei.

The air was tense inside the dark operations room whose only illumination came from the monitors.

"No, you are not at fault. I didn't expect Kraken Zwei to resemble a human to such an unbelievable extent and for her face to be so similar to Miyako's... It is only natural you were unable to fire."

Shinomiya-sensei did not blame Mitsuki. She was looking at Kraken Zwei's appearance on the monitor.

Possessing hair of mithril she could control at will, she was the hybrid child between the Kraken and a D. Despite having the appearance of a young girl, she was a dragon that could even control dark matter as well.

Whether Mitsuki, as Shinomiya Miyako's best friend, or Shinomiya-sensei, her elder sister, neither of them could sever their ties so easily.

"But if only I had fired antimatter at the time... Kraken Zwei would have been taken out effortlessly—"

Her body shaking, Mitsuki bit her lip hard.

"Don't be so hard on yourself. We have already succeeded in sealing her movements with everyone's help. According to the results of NIFL's monitoring, Kraken Zwei seems to be showing no movements at the bottom of the hole. Even if she must be defeated sooner or later, we have ample time to strategize."

"That's right! Mitsuki-chan, you don't need to force yourself anymore!"

Iris clenched her fist tightly before her chest, speaking to Mitsuki in a strong tone of voice.

"Iris-san..."

"Mitsuki-chan, you should have a good rest first. Your face really looks unwell."

Just as Iris pointed out, Mitsuki's face was pallid and she looked like she was going to collapse any moment. Shinomiya-sensei agreed with Iris after looking at Mitsuki's face.

"She's right. Go rest. There is a nap room opposite from this room."

"But regarding our next move, as the captain of the Counter-Dragon Squad, I must—"

"Mononobe Mitsuki, this is an order."

Mitsuki tried to argue but Shinomiya-sensei interrupted her with a commanding tone of voice.

"...Yes ma'am."

Reluctantly, Mitsuki could only nod affirmatively. With unsteady footsteps, she exited the operations room.

"Shinomiya-sensei..."

Unable to leave Mitsuki alone the way she was right now, I spoke up. Immediately, Shinomiya-sensei's expression showed comprehension of what I wanted to say. She nodded and motioned to the operations room's door with her eyes.

"Mononobe Yuu, you will stay at your sister's side for now."

"Thank you. Understood."

I followed her orders, only to see Ariella and the rest of the girls staring at me seriously.

"I've never seen Mitsuki like this. She might become unable to fight again if she isn't consoled properly at this time. Mononobe-kun, you must help her well."

"Onii-chan... Mitsuki is in your hands."

I nodded silently in response to Ariella and Ren.

"Mitsuki-chan definitely needs you... Mononobe, so you have to support her properly."

With slight sadness in her smile, Iris gave my back a push.

—Iris.

She probably had misgivings against fighting a dragon that had kept a human appearance, but even so, she still prioritized Mitsuki and me.

"Yeah... Don't overdo things yourself either, Iris."

After some hesitation, all I could say were such ordinary words of encouragement.

"Very well!"

Even so, Iris still smiled happily. Feeling a sharp pain in my heart, I walked out of the operations room.

I did not see Mitsuki in the corridor. She had probably entered the nap room.

Thinking that to myself, I opened the door to the room opposite the operations room but it was totally dark inside.

"Mitsuki?"

"—Nii-san?"

I felt relieved to hear her answer. Switching on the light, I walked over to the direction of her voice. Inside an area isolated behind curtains, I found Mitsuki sitting on the bed.

"Are you about to sleep? If that's the case, I'll switch off the light—"

I asked but MItsuki slowly shook her head.

"No... I cannot sleep right now, so there is no need to switch off the light. Nii-san... Did you come over because you are worried about me?"

Mitsuki smiled wryly and asked me with self-deprecation in her tone.

"Yeah."

"I am truly sorry... for causing you trouble, Nii-san. I must not act like this. Clearly I... resolved myself already..."

Mitsuki gripped the sheets on the mattress and looked down in chagrin.

"Hesitating in that kind of situation is only natural when you're human. Even if you possess the same power as a dragon, you don't have to change your mind into a monster too."

"But..."

"So-called resolve basically means giving up on something. There's nothing wrong with that and it's essential sometimes... But there are things that must not be cast away."

I spoke quietly while placing my hand on Mitsuki's head.

"I am currently thankful—Mitsuki, that you did not shoot earlier."

"Eh?"

Mitsuki stared at me, dumbfounded.

"Had you shot antimatter at the time, Mitsuki... You'd probably be in a nervous breakdown right now, and definitely broken to an irreparable degree."

To confirm whether Mitsuki's mind was not broken, I gently caressed her head.

"Mitsuki, you don't need to fight Kraken Zwei anymore. No, I won't let you fight."

"Nii-san... But—"

"No 'buts' so quit complaining. This is what I've decided as your ''brother''."

I ruffled Mitsuki's hair brusquely and took my hand off her head.

"...Do not suddenly go abusing a brother's authority just because your memories recovered slightly."

Mitsuki fixed her tousled hair while pouting unhappily.

"Say no more, just leave the rest to me. Even if we must fight her again, Iris, the rest of the class and I will find a way."

Mitsuki's shoulders shook when I mentioned Iris' name.

"I seem to be... shoving hardship on Iris-san all the time."

"It's not like that. Iris is taking on the task on her own will."

I corrected Mitsuki and she immediately made a wry smile.

"Indeed... The same applies to the matter of Nii-san. She decided Nii-san's feelings on her own, trying to yield Nii-san to me... Actually, she is clearly suffering greatly."

Mitsuki sighed deeply and stared at me with serious eyes.

"Please worry more about Iris-san than me, Nii-san. Because Iris-san is the one you love, Nii-san."

"...Mitsuki, you're the one who's deciding my feelings on your own."

Despite feeling aware of the wavering in the depths of my heart, I still retorted against Mitsuki.

"Looks like, Nii-san, you do not understand your own feelings. That way, you will not be able to protect Iris-san, you know?"

After saying that, Mitsuki stood up from the edge of the bed.

"...Mitsuki?"

She was glaring at me within a breath's range, making me feel troubled.

"Nii-san... Please kiss me."

"Huh?"

I was frozen in surprise. Before my eyes, Mitsuki closed her eyes and tilted her face upwards slightly.

"Nii-san, you will understand if you do it. Because right now, you already know what it feels like to kiss the one you love."

Mitsuki had witness my kiss with Iris, which was why she was saying this now...

"No way, asking me to kiss for the sake of comparing—"

"Please do not escape! I beg you, Nii-san..."

Mitsuki spoke to me in a pleading tone of voice. Hearing her words, I understood that Mitsuki had mustered all her courage. To her, this was surely something essential.

I stared at Mitsuki's face, waiting to be kissed. Her cheeks were blushing, slight tears seeped out of her tightly shut eyes, her cherry lips looked so soft with fiery breath escaping from between them. The sight was causing my heart to race.

"...As you wish."

So far, no matter when, I always responded to Mitsuki's demands. Three years ago, it was for Mitsuki's sake that I had fought Hekatonkheir.

Hence, I was going to respond to her this time too.

...Even if that kind of outcome was not what Mitsuki desired.

I drew my face near, closing the distance between me and Mitsuki. My heart was brimming with the feelings accumulated from our time as childhood friends, as family.

The moment before our lips touched, I understood. I treasured Mitsuki even more than my own life.

To confirm feelings that went beyond that, I was about to kiss Mitsuki.

I could hear the sound of my heartbeat from the depths of my body. Mitsuki's warm breath was reaching my face.

On Mitsuki's long eyelashes were glinting tears.

Closing in enough such that all I could see was her face, I closed my eyes too.

What remained was simply... closing the residual gap between us.
[[image:UnlimitedFafnir v07 219.jpg|thumb]]

—Purururururu.

However, a ringtone sounded from the side of the bed, dumping cold water on the heightened atmosphere.

Mitsuki and I opened our eyes in surprise.

"Eh... Kyah!?"

Seeing my face right before her eyes, Mitsuki went bright red. Leaning backwards, she fell on the bed entirely.

"Seems like an incoming call."

With embarrassed feelings, I pointed at Mitsuki's portable terminal on the bed.

"Y-Yes. Please bear with me for a moment. Oh... It is from Lisa-san."

Mitsuki answered in a stiff tone of voice then pressed the button on the terminal to pick up the call. Immediately, Lisa's face came on the screen.

'Mitsuki-san, bad news! Vritra is heading your way!'

Without any introductory explanation, Lisa spoke anxiously.

What—!?

My heart was beating intensely.

"Eh? Vritra...?"

Mitsuki showed a grave expression while she asked Lisa.

'Her target is you, Mitsuki-san! Please take precautions immediately!'

"You are saying her target is me...? Why? Even if Vritra were to act, her target ought to be Kili-san who has caught Kraken Zwei's eye—"

Mitsuki asked, perplexed.

We had already expected to some extent that Vritra might make some kind of move.

Hence that was why we had left Tia behind to monitor her. In front of Tia, Vritra could not use dark matter freely. Tia had said that she was able to steal dark matter just like Yggdrasil.

Furthermore, Kili herself was not an easy opponent.

Hence, I originally thought that Kili would be fine, but never did I expect Vritra to target Mitsuki—

'...Rather than handing a mate over, Vritra is apparently prioritizing the protection of the juvenile Kraken. Hence, that is why she is targeting you, Mitsuki-san, given your ability to generate antimatter!'

"In other words, we have no means of taking down Kraken Zwei once I am gone... That seems to be what she is thinking."

'Right, that is what I fear. Tia-san and Firill-san are currently chasing after—'

Mid-sentence, there was a massive rumbling and the building shook violently.

It was no earthquake. That was the sound of an explosion just now.

'...Looks like she has arrived.'

Right after Lisa remarked with a bitter expression, a loud siren began blaring in the NIFL base—

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| Forward to [[Unlimited_Fafnir:Volume_7_Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
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Unlimited Fafnir:Volume 7 Chapter 1

2015-05-21T13:09:48Z

119.95.227.249: /* Part 4 */

==Chapter 1 - Fictional Nostalgia==

===Part 1===

Inside the lab premises sealed off by NIFL troops, Miyazawa Kenya was walking alone.

The soldiers walking past him all wore tense expressions as though about to fight a formidable foe, speaking in quiet voices.

Amidst the tense atmosphere, Miyazawa Kenya walked over to the large hole on the side of the lab building and stopped.

The hole was very deep, extending downwards in a slant. The deep end could not be seen at all.

He knew that this hole led to the fourth floor underground.

The hole's walls were abnormally smooth, as though sliced by a blade.

"—Seriously, I can't believe I survived under those circumstances. I must be pretty damn lucky."

Touching the cast on his arm, he muttered to himself in self-deprecation.

At this moment, a man approached him from behind and patted him on the shoulder.

"Are you the one in charge here?"

"Hmm? Indeed. And you are?"

Miyazawa Kenya looked back and examined the man in front of him. A man with a cold gaze was the first impression. Next, he felt a strong sense of deja vu.

—So similar to ''him''.

He recalled the meddlesome young man who was on good terms with his daughter.

A nice guy to a fault versus a cold man.

Despite their difference in style or the lack of facial similarity, these two people overlapped in image on a certain point.

"I am Loki Jotunheim. Rank is Major. I was sent by NIFL to handle this incident."

"Now that is truly unfortunate for you to be caught up in this kind of nuisance. You have my deepest sympathies. I am Miyazawa Kenya, the director of this lab. We will be seeing much of each other for the time being and I look forward to working with you."

Miyazawa Kenya extended his hand in a business-like manner. Major Loki shook it with a smile.

His hand felt as cold as his gaze.

"I'm already used to these types of assignments. However, what a major incident. The higher-ups have issued an extermination order for ''that''."

"It was an unexpected accident but to have concealed that kind of thing in Asgard and even allowed it to escape—If the public were to find out, the organization's reputation would suffer irrevocably."

Miyazawa Kenya stared into the depths of the hole and concurred with Major Loki.

"Unexpected huh. I was clearly about to hold you responsible, yet you can still remain so calm. You look quite relaxed."

"Truth be told, quite. As a researcher, I still wish for it to be captured alive if possible."

Miyazawa Kenya made a crooked smile.

"That is impossible. That thing will be exterminated by my team—Sleipnir."

"...Will they manage?"

Confronted with Miyazawa Kenya's taunting question, Major Loki smiled fearlessly.

"Even if they fail, I'll just let ''him'' take action."

"Him?"

Seeing Miyazawa Kenya frown, Major Loki spoke calmly:

"The strongest killer I raised. In this country—'Fafnir' is visiting."

===Part 2===

"Wow! So this is the town where Mononobe grew up!"

Iris leaned towards the window and exclaimed in joy while watching the surrounding scenery.

For around four hours now, we were riding a large van with a member of Asgard staff as the driver.

After the long journey, the van drove into an inland mountain town in the central region—Nanato City.

This was apparently Mitsuki's and my hometown.

After traveling through a long tunnel, an overarching view of the entire town could be seen from the windows. Being sandwiched between two great mountains could be considered a kind of characteristic.

Although it was not extremely rural, Nanato could not be described as one of those modernized and developed regional cities.

It was no different from those towns we passed along the way.

A river ran through the middle of town, glittering under the rays of the setting sun.

"Compared to Tokyo, this place is much more quiet and peaceful!"

Iris had gotten very excited after hearing Mitsuki propose taking everyone to our hometown. However, I totally felt nothing despite seeing my hometown right before my eyes.

Having lost all memories beyond three years ago, it was like seeing this scenery for the first time. I was hoping some nostalgia might be evoked by the sight, but now it looked like there were no such feelings.

Once again, I realized how massively losing my memories would change me.

To think that the gap between my past and current selves would be this far.

"Hey Mononobe-kun, which side is your home?"

Firill looked out the window and asked me. Of all the girls here, only she, Mitsuki and Ariella did not know about my memory loss.

"Well, which side, lemme see..."

Of course I could not possibly know. My only choice was to avoid eye contact and answer ambiguously.

"You forgot because it's been too long?"

I jumped upon hearing Ariella's joke.

"Nii-san, look, it is over there. The shopping street with the arcade, around that vicinity."

Mitsuki pointed at a part of town.

"Oh, right—I remember now."

I nodded stiffly while she waxed nostalgically.

"Fufu... When we were young, we often looked for our home's location from the observation platform there."

"—Yeah."

I half-heartedly concurred with Mitsuki, escaping eye contact, not daring to look at her.

The guilt of acting as "Mononobe Yuu" was making my heart hurt immensely.

"Yuu..."

Having just woke up, Tia looked at me as though wanting to say something.

I looked around and saw Iris, Lisa and Ren watching me with worry.

These four knew of my memory loss. In other words, they probably realized what I was feeling inside.

I stroked Tia's head and smiled at the girls to tell them not to worry.

"It has been two years for me and three for Nii-san since we left. When I called home earlier... Mother was so happy. Nii-san, you really should call more often."

"We'll meet immediately so it's fine. Also, is it really possible to accommodate so many people?"

I tried as hard as I could do to respond to Mitsuki as usual and brought up a question that concerned me.

"There is no problem with space if we use my house as well. However, there might not be enough ingredients for dinner, so Mother hurried out to shop."

..."My house"?

I totally did not understand what Mitsuki meant by that but I could not ask her directly.

To get a grasp on my location, I looked seriously at the scenery of the hometown I could no longer remember.

After going down a slope, the van drove along the river. After passing the arcade shopping street, we were brought to the place where Mitsuki had indicated earlier.

The van made a U-turn and drove off after dropping us off. Shinomiya-sensei was apparently going to pick us up for the return journey.

In front of us was a two-story wooden house. Compared to the newer designs of neighboring buildings, it felt a bit historical.

The family name on the plate read—Mononobe.

A gust of wind brought floral fragrance unique to this town.

For the first time, I finally felt a sense of nostalgia.

Although I had no memories of the town's scenery or impressions of the house, my body still remembered this distinctive air.

After taking a few deep breaths, feelings of my childhood spread through my entire body from the air entering my lungs.

"...I finally feel like I've arrived somewhere truly Japanese."

Looking at the house with the tiled roof, Firill remarked with emotion.

"Indeed... There is a feeling of Japanese culture."

Lisa looked at my house inquisitively and agreed.

"Tokyo was totally unlike what I imagined Japan to be like. There were no samurai or ninjas."

Seeming quite surprised, Iris walked back and forth, looking around.

"No, I don't think there will be samurai or ninjas here either."

"Mm."

Having lived in Japan the whole time they were with Miyazawa Kenya, Ariella and Ren smiled wryly while corrected Iris' mistake.

"Hey Yuu. It smells really good."

Tia pulled my hand and commented. Speaking of which, there was definitely a very appetizing aroma in the air.

"I suppose Mother is preparing dinner. Since the car is absent, Father is not home from work yet. Okay, Nii-san, stop spacing out over there and hurry inside."

Mitsuki urged me and entered the yard without ringing the doorbell. Since it was her own home, she had no reservations.

Opening the door with a clatter, Mitsuki announced loudly in the house.

"I have returned! Mother, we are home!"

Then with a meow from the depths of the corridor, a black cat walked out.

"Oh, it's a cat!"

Iris exclaimed happily. Smiling, Mitsuki approached the black cat and stroked it. It seemed to be the Mononobe family cat.

"Ohagi, I am so glad to see you in good health."

"Me~ow."

The black cat—Ohagi—meowed as though responding. Then walking over to my feet, it rubbed itself against me.

"Looks like it still remembers you, Nii-san, even though you have not looked after it this whole time. So I guess the one who picked it up ultimately holds a dear place in its heart?"

Mitsuki grumbled to me.

"I-I never looked after it?"

Troubled, I asked because I had no memories of the cat at all.

"No, it is not that you never looked after it, but when you picked up Ohagi, Hekatonkheir—"

Just as Mitsuki tried to continue, a patter of footsteps interrupted her.

"Welcome home, Mitsuki and Yuu."

A voluptuous middle-aged woman walked out from the depths of the corridor.

She was probably my mother, even though I had no idea. However, even though she treated me very nicely, she still felt like a stranger to me.

"Mitsuki, I have waited a long time. And Yuu... finally came home."

Mother—the one who seemed to be her—smiled gently at me.

"It has been a long time."

Due to nervousness, I used polite speech without thinking.

"Come on, what are you getting nervous about? This is your home, right? Don't be shy, girls, come in and have a seat."

This woman—my mother—urged us with a wry smile.

"T-Thank you for having us. Oh, I ought to remove my shoes, isn't that correct?"

Lisa's voice sounded strangely stiff as she took off her shoes and entered the house. We followed.

"This way. In any case, let us all go to the living room first."

Leading us, Mitsuki and Mother walked to the living room. Ohagi also came along.

Passing through the creaky corridor and opening a partition, we reached a room the size of eight tatami mats.

Sitting on seat cushions, we gathered around the table in the middle.

"Wow! Tatami, it's my first time touching it."

Iris touched the tatami and remarked happily.

"Onii-chan... Here, I should seiza?"

Sitting beside me, Ren asked quietly.

"No, it's fine, just sit casually."

I looked around. Mitsuki was sitting beautifully in formal seiza posture, but without being too rigid, so it was fine.

"Thank goodness. I am not good at seiza."

Ren breathed a sigh of relief, relaxed and allowed her leg posture to collapse.

"My legs are getting numb... I guess I won't seiza either."

Iris was imitating Mitsuki. After hearing my conversation with Ren, she relaxed too.

"I will endure longer."

However, among the girls, Firill continued to keep her back straight in seiza posture.

"Firill, it's best you don't strain yourself too much, okay?"

Likewise sitting in seiza, Lisa cautioned Firill.

"...The same goes for you, Lisa. It's not necessary to present yourself in front of Mononobe-kun's mother."

"Y-You are talking about yourself, right? I am simply doing as the Romans do."

Lisa replied frantically then threw a sideways glance at Firill.

However, they both showed strain on their faces. Seiza was probably tough for them.

"I'm not responsible if you can't stand up later."

Ariella looked at them as though they were idiots.

"Wha—"

The black cat, Ohagi, came over and jumped on my lap.

"Looks like it really remembers me."

This feeling of nostalgia was making me very glad. At the same time, I felt deeply conflicted that the cat remembered me but I had forgotten it completely. Just as I had nothing to do and was stroking Ohagi's back, Ren looked at me with eyes of anticipation.

"Onii-chan, can I touch it?"

"Oh sure."

"Thank you... It's my first time touching a cat."

Ren happily reached out and stroked Ohagi's jet black fur. Although Ohagi moved its ears in fright, it did not move away and curled up in
my lap.

"......So cute."
[[image:UnlimitedFafnir v07 039.jpg|thumb]]

Smiling radiantly, Ren continued to stroke Ohagi.

Mother brought drinks at this time. After setting down the tea before each of us, she sat down next to Mitsuki. Then looking at everyone, she spoke:

"We already met at the school festival, but allow me to introduce myself again. I am Mononobe Yoshimi, Yuu and Mitsuki's mother."

Mother nodded and greeted everyone.

Mononobe Yoshimi—I committed this name to memory. I could not even recall the name of my parents.

"It was very rushed during the festival when Nii-san was transported to the infirmary. Everyone starting with Lisa, could you introduce yourself again?"

"Understood."

Hearing Mitsuki, Lisa started the self-introductions.

"My name is Lisa Highwalker. Sorry for intruding on this sudden visit. Thank you for your hospitality."

After Lisa introduced herself while sitting in seiza, everyone introduced themselves in student number sequence.

"My name is Firill Crest. I am really really good friends with Mononobe-kun."

For some reason, Firill's introduction seemed to emphasize "really" in particular.

"I'm Ariella Lu. Nice to meet you."

In contrast to Lisa and Firill's formal airs, Ariella introduced herself in a casual tone of voice.

"......Ren Miyazawa."

Still stroking Ohagi, Ren named herself quietly.

"I'm Iris Freyja! I'm, umm... really really good friends with Mononobe, and we're always helping each other out!"

As though competing with Firill, Iris also applied great emphasis in her tone of voice.

"Tia will become Yuu's bride one day! So Yoshimi is Tia's mama!"

However, Tia refused to admit defeat and made a bold declaration, frightening me.

"Hey Tia—"

"Fufu, what a cute little fiancee. I would be very happy to gain another daughter."

However, Mother smiled and responded, treating it as a child's joke.

"......Tia got ahead of you, Lisa."

Firill patted Lisa on the shoulder and commented. Lisa's face instantly turned bright red.

"F-Firill, doesn't the same go for you? I am not..."

"Hmm..."

Iris pouted in frustration. As expected, she had called herself "friend" only out of concern for Mitsuki.

"Then I will go get dinner ready. Please rest well, everyone."

Chuckling to herself as she watched us, Mother stood up.

"Oh Mother, let me help you."

Mitsuki instantly stood up.

"No need. It's rare enough for you two to visit, I'd like to show off today. Mitsuki, accompany everyone and show them around the house."

"—Understood. How is the other house?"

"Since have been cleaning and tidying regularly, it shouldn't be that messy or dirty. However, the electricity and water supply is cut, so it probably can only serve as a place to sleep."

"That is good enough already. Thank you, Mother."

Mother left the room after that. Ariella asked Mitsuki:

"Hey, what does the other house mean?"

I wanted to ask the same question. Smiling wryly, Mitsuki answered:

"Eh... Actually, my parents passed away when I was little. After that, I was adopted into Nii-san's family. As a result, the adjacent house was where I used to live with my birth parents."

While looking at everyone, Mitsuki explained in embarrassment.

"Oh... I see now. Sorry, I didn't know—"

Ariella apologized, feeling bad. After finding out that Mitsuki and I were not blood-related siblings, the others looked quite shocked. Iris was the only one without any change in expression.

In Iris' case, she already knew about this relationship when I explained to her about the childhood marriage promise between Mitsuki and me.

—Mitsuki and I were childhood friends and neighbors.

After Mitsuki explained, I felt a little relieved. However, this was something matter-of-fact for my past self. At this rate, I was going to be exposed sooner or later.

"N-No need to apologize... Weird speculation might arise if it was publicized that we had no blood relations, which would make things difficult to explain... Umm, please do not mind. I did have the intention of looking for a chance to explain to everyone."

Seeing Mitsuki explain frantically, I felt like my emotions were in a mess. If I asked about the past, everything would get exposed.

"Well, Mitsuki-san and Mononobe Yuu have to live in the same dormitory, isn't that right? Then it cannot be helped. Furthermore, despite being an adopted daughter, the sibling relationship is for certain... Mitsuki-san, there is no need for you to be so sensitive about it."

Lisa soothed Mitsuki's anxieties on everyone's behalf. No one said "so you're not real siblings" or continued to pry.

The same went for me. Although there were many things I wanted to find out, the sight of Mitsuki's expression gave me pause.

"...Thank you, everyone."

After seeing our reactions, Mitsuki thanked in relief.

"Then let's hurry and go tidy the house. We just walk over from this house to that one, right?"

Under the slightly heavy atmosphere, Ariella cheerfully asked Mitsuki.

"Ah yes.. It would be too cramped if all eight of us were to stay on this side. So let us separate just for sleeping. However, as stated earlier, there is no water or electricity in that house. Hence, you will need to take baths and use the washroom on this side."

"It'll be a bit inconvenient going to the toilet at night. I don't really mind, but those who are afraid of the dark should sleep on this side."

Ariella commented and looked at Tia, the youngest present.

"T-Tia can go to the toilet alone!"

Tia retorted with her face all red.

"Okay, then let us divide up based on the house's size and the usual rooming arrangements. The master bedroom on that side is the most spacious, so Lisa-san, Firill-san and Tia-san will go over together. Ariella-san and Ren-san can have my former room. Iris will stay on this side with me in my present room."

After assigning rooms decisively, Mitsuki looked at us.

"...What about me?"

Mitsuki stared at me in exasperation when I raised the question.

"Nii-san, you will sleep alone in your own room. Or are you telling me... You would like to room with someone?"

"N-No, nothing like that. Just kidding."

Under Mitsuki's gaze, I explained in panic. On further thought, it was only logical for me to have my own room here. Due to a lack of memories, I accidentally asked the question.

"Good grief... Anyone else have objections? In that case, before dinner is ready, let us get the rooms ready. It will be pitch black in the other house once the sun sets."

Looking at the setting sun outside the window, Mitsuki spoke.

Everyone nodded in agreement and got up from their seat cushions. Lying on my lap, Ohagi jumped down and walked over to the window to bask in the sun.

Mitsuki went to the kitchen to find Mother and returned with a key. It was probably the key to Mitsuki's house.

We exited the entrance, following Mitsuki and made our way to the neighboring house.

The mailbox was stuffed with all sorts of letters. It was clearly a vacant home at a glance.

However, when Mitsuki opened the main door and entered, I could see that the entrance hall was occupied with cardboard boxes. The house was probably being used for storage.

Despite looking quite old outside, the inside was relatively new. The ground floor rooms had western designs without anything like sliding screens.

—Mitsuki lived here when she was young.

I must have come here to play in the past, but I totally could not recall memories from that time.

"The bedroom is on the second floor. The rooms on the ground floor are quite cluttered and a bit dangerous, so do not wander around after dark."

Mitsuki reminded everyone to take care then walked up the stairs to the second floor. The banisters were not very worn. In other words, the house had not been lived in for very long.

"This was my parents' bedroom. This side was mine."

After reaching the second floor, Mitsuki indicated the two rooms to us.

There was nothing left in Mitsuki's room apart from a bed. Everything had probably been moved when Mitsuki moved into my home. Then I looked into Mitsuki's parents' bedroom on the opposite side where the furniture was untouched. There was a very large two-person bed, enough for three people to sleep on.

"Then hurry and get the rooms ready. There are not enough blankets on this side, so could you carry some futons over later?"

Pointing at her former room, Mitsuki said to me.

"Got it. I'll do the manual labor."

As the only boy, this could not be helped. Smiling wryly, I accepted the job.

Hence, we started to perform simple cleaning while the sun was setting and the interior was a bit dark. Then opening the windows for some fresh air, I looked at my house next door.

"—Before we became siblings, we used to talk to each other like this."

Walking up beside me, Mitsuki commented nostalgically.

The room on the other side with the drawn curtains was probably my bedroom.

"Yeah..."

Unable to recall anything, I could only imagine painfully and concur.

"Chatting till late at night, I even made my parents mad."

"Yeah—that too."

These fake responses pained my heart immensely.

"I am the only one who inherited this house... It would be better to sell the house if I am not living in it—But there are too many memories here. I cannot let go. Also..."

At this point, Mitsuki looked up at me.

"Also?"

"I have a... dream. That being said, it is a very distant dream, impossible to achieve."

Blushing, Mitsuki spoke in slight embarrassment.

"What kind of dream is it?"

"—I have to keep it a secret from you, Nii-san. Okay, time to move the futons over. The bedsheets also need to be changed. I am counting on you, Nii-san."

Ending the conversation one-sidedly, Mitsuki patted me on the shoulder.

I obeyed Mitsuki even though I still had questions. If she continued to reminisce like this, my heart would not be able to endure.

After I exited the room on my own, Iris poked her head out to look at me.

"Oh Mononobe, are you returning to the other house?"

"Yeah, to get futons and bedsheets."

"Then could you ask to see if there's something like a light? It's quite inconvenient if there are no lights at night after all."

"Got it."

I nodded in agreement, then in the middle of leaving, I stopped.

"...Iris, could you meet me later? I need to tell you something."

I looked back and said to her in a serious tone of voice.

"You can't do it now?"

"It's very important and only for the two of us to know."

"—I understand."

Iris nodded seriously too.

"Then tonight, find a chance to go out."

After saying that, I went down the stairs. Naturally, what I wanted to tell her was Tia's suggestion.

But if we were to discuss, I did not know how Iris would answer.

Hence, I must firm my own will before the discussion.

—To prevent Iris from having to agonize over the decision.

===Part 3===

"My name is Mononobe Kai. Thank you for taking care of Yuu and Mitsuki. Please continue to be good friends with them."

While we were getting the house ready, my father—Mononobe Kai—came over to greet everyone. A kind and thoughtful man.

Dinner was already set out on the living room table. The lovely aroma was stimulating our appetites. At this moment, someone's stomach rumbled. All the girls made a "not me" look and avoided eye contact. Ohagi the black cat was the first to begin eating its catfood, not caring about us at all.

"Oh sorry, you must be famished. Come, don't be shy, let's eat, everyone."

Smiling wryly, Father picked up his chopsticks and announced the beginning of the meal.

Everyone started to eat. During the meal, they introduced themselves to my father.

I listened while eating silently.

—The taste was great.

Meat and potato stew, boiled vegetables, miso soup... All nostalgic flavors. Despite losing my memories, my body still remembered the flavors themselves.

"Nii-san, Mother's cooking is really wonderful."

"Yeah."

For the first time, I answered Mitsuki while facing her for real.

"It's different from what I understood as the taste of Japanese cooking. Not to say it is not delicious, but there is this modest feeling..."

Eating the meat, Lisa offered her comments in surprise.

"Lisa, this is how it should be. It's what they call 'mother's taste.'"

Drinking a sip of miso soup, Firill offered praise.

"Indeed, in those manga and novels that you brought, upon returning to their hometown to eat their mothers' cooking, people are always brought to tears in emotion."

Saying that, Lisa looked at me while I was eating.

"No, I'm not gonna cry."

I answered tentatively first.

"Mononobe, you don't have to hold it in."

"If you wanna cry, Tia will lend bosom to you!"

However, Iris and Tia thought I was holding back and looked at me in worry.

"No, like I said—"

"Mononobe-kun, we won't laugh at you even if you cry."

"Mm."

Ariella and Ren joined in the fun. I sighed in resignation.

"You are all such good girls."

Watching them, Mother chuckled to herself.

The dinner atmosphere was very lively. By the time I noticed, the meal was over in an instant.

"The hot water is ready. You should all take baths in sequence."

After clearing up, Mother reminded us to bathe.

"Then you go first, Nii-san."

"Eh, I can?"

I was thinking the girls would be resistant to the idea of entering the bath after a guy. However, Mitsuki nodded seriously.

"No problem. With so many girls, it will probably take a long time. You should go wash up first and go to bed. You must be tired with only the brief nap on the van."

Mitsuki urged me with a smile. I felt strongly that she really was my ''family''.

Since no one objected, I took the towel Mother had handed to me and went to the bathroom. Although I had no memories of the bathroom's direction, I had pretty much figured out this house's layout.

After removing my clothes in the changing area, I entered the bathroom. It was roughly a size larger than my bathrooms at Midgard and the research lab, a family bathroom that was not especially huge. There were signs of redecoration in the bathroom and looked a bit newer than the one back home.

Lisa and Firill were probably going to be disappointed that this was not a hot spring-style bath. I broke out in cold sweat at the thought.

I exhaled deeply after soaking myself in the tub. As Mitsuki said, I was truly exhausted.

I stretched and spaced out, looking at the ceiling. While I was reminiscing over my experiences, I suddenly noticed someone's presence in the changing area.

A petite figure behind the frosted glass. I could guess who it was based on her outline and the color of her hair.

"H-Hey..."

No way. I broke out in cold sweat. The sound of undressing in the changing area stopped. The door gradually opened.

"Yuu, Tia will join in the bath."

Looking at me shyly, Tia went bright red.

"J-Join in!?"

I cried out in surprise. Tia immediately showed panic on her face.

"Shhh! Not so loud! Or else Lisa and others will notice."

Tia placed her finger on her lip and shushed. Then fully naked, she entered the bathroom.

Despite a pubescent body, her chest was showing minor signs of growth. Without any flab at her waist, Tia's elegant curves were emphasizing Tia's feminine charms.

Furthermore, Tia seemed quite shy today, covering up her privates with her hands. Previously at the hot spring, she was still so innocent, not hiding herself at all.

Her shyness made the sight even more racy. I frantically looked away.

"W-What are you doing?"

"Because you... are worried about Tia. Also, you looked brokenhearted the whole time today."

Hearing her, I looked back at her. Tia's skin had gone red from embarrassment, but she looked at me seriously.

"Looks like—I've been like that all day."

Hearing my whispers, Tia nodded and quietly entered the tub, soaking herself, leaving only her head above the surface.

Sitting in the space in front of me with her knees drawn up to her chest, Tia stared at me intently.

"Yuu, are you okay?"

"I'm fine... Although many things are definitely troubling me, I think I'll manage. No need to worry."

I pulled myself together slightly and smiled at Tia.

"Rather, I'm more worried about you. After devouring Yggdrasil's core, do you feel unwell anywhere?"

After a nap in the van, she looked recovered. But was that actually the case? I asked Tia in return.

"No problem anymore. I've used my own will to suppress the information from the Akashic Record."

"Akashic Record?"

Suddenly hearing this unfamiliar term, I frowned.

"It is Yggdrasil's function, the power to amass information and process it... Controlling electricity is just a side effect. The Akashic Record is the circuit of omniscience that chronicles all information observed by Yggdrasil."

Tia spoke fluently using terms that she normally did not use.

"Then... There's nothing you don't know anymore, Tia?"

"Hmm, I might get devoured if I ''go too deeply'' into the Akashic Record, so it's best to control myself not to know too much."

Tia shook her head and said with her face red.

"Because... Tia only needs to be Tia. To keep loving Yuu... To be Yuu's bride."

Saying that, Tia shyly immersed half of her face into the water.

These actions and words made my heart rate accelerate. Furthermore, I understood too what kind of resolve she had committed herself during the battle against Yggdrasil.

"For my sake, Tia, you really worked hard. Truly... Thank you."

To express gratitude that words could not convey, I stroked Tia's head. Tia grabbed my hand, raised her head from the water and leaned in towards me.

"Mm-hmm... But Tia is not confident about keeping the old Tia. Because, last time in a bath with Mitsuki, the three of us, or at the hot spring... Tia's heart did not beat so fast."

Tia pulled my hand and pressed it against her left breast. I could feel a slight bulge even though it was not big.

"Wha—"

My thoughts suddenly halted. Feeling the heartbeat transmitted to my hand, my mind went blank.

"Yuu, can you feel Tia's heartbeat?"

"Y-Yeah..."

I nodded partially out of reflex, then moved my hand slightly. Tia's body suddenly shuddered.

"Mm... It feels so strange, touched by Yuu. Although a bit scary... It's very comfortable."

Flushed red in the face, Tia covered my hand with her hands.

"Ya... Ah... Mm..."

The softly bulging elasticity and the flower bud that strongly emphasized its existence was paralyzing my thoughts.

"Hey Yuu... Is Tia very weird right now?"
[[image:UnlimitedFafnir v07 058.jpg|thumb]]

Blushing intensely, Tia asked me uneasily.

"No, I think... You're not weird at all. At least, probably, it's due to Yggdrasil."

Not knowing how to answer, I replied ambiguously.

But Tia was reassured and her expression relaxed.

"Thank goodness... Then, if it's not weird, Tia doesn't need to keep holding back what Tia wants to do."

Saying that, Tia hugged me from the front.

"H-Hey—"

I panicked from the direct skin contact. Unconcerned, Tia pressed herself tightly against my body.

"Yuu, tell Tia whenever you are ready."

"Huh?"

I hesitated for a moment, only to realize she was referring to my memories.

"Any time, no matter when, Tia will support Yuu. So, the precious memories... must return."

Tia hugged me tightly and looked up at me. I could feel Tia's sincere feelings, but was too moved to say anything.

The force Tia's body exerted. The refreshing fragrance that cleansed one's soul. The sensation of smooth and soft skin.

All this was depriving me of the ability to think when I heard a noise from the changing area.

I instantly regained my senses and Tia separated from me with her face red.

The person in the changing area removed her clothing like Tia and quietly opened the bathroom door.

"Ah... Tia is here as expected. She stole ahead again..."

Wrapped in a towel, Firill entered.

Seeing me in the tub with Tia, she sighed.

"W-Why are you coming in too, Firill!?"

I asked frantically. Firill tilted her head slightly.

"Because bathing together is more efficient with so many of us."

"What efficiency..."

"Also... Mononobe, I want to make you as happy as that time at the hot spring."

Firill smiled with blushing cheeks then stepped into the tub, submerging herself. With three people in the tub, the water overflowed and spilled out.

The bathtub was not that big. Hence, after Firill squeezed in, Tia and I were pressed tightly together again.

"Ah..."

Leaning her head against my chest, Tia curled up shyly.

"Mononobe-kun, sorry for making the tub so crowded."

Leaning against my shoulder, Firill spoke quietly. Seeing her large breasts floating on the water, I could not deny that my heart rate was gradually accelerating.

But at this moment, someone else seemed to enter the changing area.

"—Mononobe Yuu, are you there?"

I heard Lisa's voice coming from the door. Tia frantically covered her mouth and Firill held her breath.

"Y-Yeah, I'm here."

I feigned calmness and answered. I was already bracing myself for this kind of situation. She was absolutely not going to let me off so easily.

"I can't find Tia-san and Firill-san... They are not together with you, are they?"

However, I still broke out in cold sweat with fright when I heard that question. Lisa looked like she was here in search of them. Since she had not discovered their clothing in the changing area, Firill had most likely hidden Tia's clothing and hers.

"H-How could that be possible... Those two won't come here, right?"

With the determination to flee the bathroom immediately as soon as Lisa left, I lied.

"True. Sorry for disturbing you."

Saying that, Lisa moved away from the door. I sighed in relief but Lisa did not exit the changing area.

Next, I heard the rustling of clothing. I suddenly had a bad premonition.

"U-Umm... As a special reward for how hard you've worked, only for today, allow me to scrub your back. Also, it is more efficient for two people to bathe together—"

Saying the same thing as Firill, Lisa entered the bathroom with a blush. The towel covering her body seemed a bit small, exposing everything below her chest and abdomen.

Well aware of that herself, she stretched the towel, trying her hardest to cover the majority of her body.

However, she paused as soon as she saw Tia and Firill together with me in the bath, swallowing the rest of her sentence.

Finally, as shame turned into anger, Lisa's face also flushed red.

"What is this!? Aren't Tia-san and Firill-san right here!?"

"No, it's because—"

Having lied, all explanations were rendered weak and ineffectual. However, Firill stared at Lisa and said:

"But... Lisa, you wanted to take a bath with Mononobe-kun too, so you can't scold us for that, right?"

"W-Well... No, I was simply concerned—"

"Stop looking for excuses, Lisa, and come on in. We can probably fit another person."

Firill waved and enticed Lisa with the bathtub.

"That way, it'll be more efficient!"

Smiling, Tia repeated what Lisa said just now.

"B-But..."

Lisa's gaze wandered in hesitation. Firill hugged my shoulders at once.

"If you don't come, Lisa, I'll have Mononobe-kun all to myself."

"Muguu... Enough, Firill, this is a bit uncomfortable."

Sandwiched between me and Firill, Tia complained with a smile. Attacked by the softness of the two girls, my sanity was slipping away. No, perhaps I had simply soaked too long in the bath.

"H-Hold on, Firill, know some shame! Arghhh, goodness gracious, get away from him right this instant!"

Lisa was already blushing to her ears. She immediately walked over and stepped into the tub, trying to pull us apart.

I could not tear my gaze from Lisa's thigh.

"M-Mononobe Yuu, what are you staring at!?"

Lisa frantically tugged at a corner of her towel, but this brought down the top end, displaying her deep cleavage before my eyes.

"S-Sorry..."

I frantically turned my head away but was met with the sight of the blushing Firill and Tia, making me unsure where to look. Since my legs were pinned down, I could not stand up either.

Just as I was in a dilemma and the situation was going out of control, I heard frantic footsteps.

"What is the meaning of this!?"

Someone rushed into the changing area directly and pulled the bathroom door open in one go.

Showing up fully clothed, Mitsuki's expression was grim.

A dark smile surfaced on her face while she looked alternately between Tia, Firill, me, and Lisa who had one foot in the tub.

"M-Mitsuki-san, umm, this is a misunderstanding—I came to caution them against..."

Lisa explained in panic but confronted with Mitsuki's cold stare, she lost the power to argue.

"...Mitsuki, come in and join us?"

Firill asked weakly but Mitsuki glared at her and shut her up.

"Mitsuki... So scary."

Intimidated by Mitsuki's aura, Tia submerged half her face.

"Wondering why it was so noisy, I came to have a look... But never did I expect even Lisa..."

Mitsuki sighed with her hand against her forehead.

"Mitsuki, what's wrong?"

Then Ariella and the others appeared as well.

"Wawa... Mononobe, what are you doing!?"

Leaning out from behind Mitsuki, Iris went red in the face and asked.

"Hwah... Onii-chan?"

Going red, Ren hid behind Ariella.

Seeing everyone's reactions, Mitsuki glared sharply at me.

"So... Nii-san, there is a mountain of things I wish to say, but before that—"

"W-What is it?"

I gulped and asked. Mitsuki roared in anger:
[[image:UnlimitedFafnir v07 067.jpg|thumb]]

"How much longer do you intend to expose your naked body to everyone!?"

"S-Sorry! I'll get dressed immediately!"

I instantly lifted Tia and stood up, trying to leave the tub.

But without considering the consequences of this action, I fully exposed my lower body that had been hidden underwater.

"Ah."

It was too late for regrets.

All eyes were focused on one point. Next, seven people's worth of screaming ensued.

===Part 4===

On the second floor of the Mononobe home, my room was adjacent to Mitsuki's.

There was a lot of shounen manga on the bookshelves. A satchel with back straps was still hanging on an elementary schooler's desk. The school calendar on the desk still showed March from three years ago. It looked like NIFL had taken me before my elementary school graduation. I felt like I was recalling someone else's memories.

To me, having lost all memories beyond three years ago, this room felt like it belonged to someone else.

I apparently liked soccer at the time. The posters on the walls were all soccer players.

Resting against the futon, I looked at the posters, sighing deeply.

I was not simply sighing due to the loss of my memories. I also felt extremely exhausted because of the long lecture Mitsuki delivered after the bathroom crisis.

Moreover, Iris had witnessed the scene. Judging from how she screamed and ran away, tonight's conversation might be very difficult.

Iris was in Mitsuki's room while our rooms were adjacent and very close together. However, after that lecturing, I really did not have the courage to visit Mitsuki's room again.

Unable to calm my feelings, I stood up and walked to the window. Pulling the curtains open, I could see a bit of light in the opposite house.

Over there was where Mitsuki lived before becoming my sister. It was currently Ariella and Ren's bedroom. The light I could currently see was probably used for illumination.

—At this distance, it was definitely possible to converse with the windows opened.

As soon as I thought about how Mitsuki and I used to have happy conversations like this, my heart began to ache intensely.

At this moment, the room's sliding door shook then came slightly ajar.

"Mononobe... Can I come in?"

I could see Iris' face from the gap in the door.

I walked over in surprise and opened the door. Dressed in a negligee, Iris fidgeted shyly. She looked like she was still bothered by what had happened in the bathroom.

"You came, Iris. But... won't Mitsuki get mad?"

To prevent us from violating public morals in the house, Mitsuki had warned ahead of time. If she discovered Iris came to my room, Mitsuki would probably get angry again.

However, Iris smiled wryly without panicking.

"Don't worry, Mitsuki-chan tired herself out scolding all of you. She is already asleep."

"Really... Then let's talk now."

Feeling guilty for exhausting Mitsuki, I invited Iris into the room.

"Wow... It's like a kid's bedroom."

Iris looked around in interest then sat down on the futon.

"I actually was a kid when I lived here. By the way, why are you sitting there?"

"Eh, I can't?"

Iris tilted her head in puzzlement. Dressed in a negligee, sitting on the futon, there seemed to be an element of seduction. However, Iris had no self-awareness of that sort.

"It's not that you can't... Whatever, let's proceed."

I calmed down and faced Iris who was sitting on the futon.

"Is this a very important topic?"

Iris confirmed with a serious look on her face.

"Yes."

I nodded and took a deep breath. Although it was decided abruptly, I already prepared myself. Although it was very troubling, I already fully understood the existence of "myself."

"Actually, Tia told me, she'll return my memories to me."

"Eh...?"

Iris was stunned for a moment then spoke in surprise:

"S-So you're saying Tia-chan can return your memories to the way they were, Mononobe!?"

"Wait, not so loud."

I frantically covered Iris' lips. I carefully observed the presence next door. It looked like the noise had not woken Mitsuki.

"S-Sorry. But... That's wonderful, Mononobe. That's truly wonderful..."

Large teardrops fell from Iris' eyes while she gave me her blessing in a trembling voice.

It looked like in her consideration for me, she had not realized she might lose her "number one" position in my heart.

Thus, even if I told her what troubled me, she would surely ask me to retrieve my memories.

Through just now, I had already confirmed this fact.

Hence, I needed to steel my own determination even more.

"Thank you for being happy for me, Iris. But to be frank, I'm very afraid."

"Afraid?"

"How my current self will change, how my feelings for you, Iris, will change... I might get overwritten by my past self, it makes me very afraid."

Iris was instantly stunned by what I said.

"That's true... I know how you feel, Mononobe. Still... But—"

Iris placed her hand on her chest and looked at me with a pained expression.

"—I know. Even so, I must retrieve my memories."

"Mm-hmm... I think that's best. Because you look like you've been suffering the whole time, Mononobe... Poor Mitsuki-chan, kept in the dark all along."

For the second time, Iris showed relief for others without being concerned for herself.

"It's not an issue between Mitsuki and me. In my current state, I can't face you, Iris... So, I have to move forward and retrieve my past self."

Iris had always worried about Mitsuki. Influenced by the real "Mononobe Yuu," I also felt guilty, unable to grow closer with Iris. Due to this indecisive state, I could only maintain a relationship of ambiguous affection with Tia and the others.

As a result, no one was going to obtain happiness if the status quo continued.

"Mononobe..."

"I will definitely become different from my current self—Neither will I forget anything, including you, Iris... I won't forget my current feelings for you."

"Yeah..."

Iris brushed the corner of her eye with a finger then replied in a sobbing voice.

"Hey Mononobe, will you promise me a willful request, just one?"

"What is it?"

Enduring the pain in my heart, I asked. No matter what it was, I would do everything I could to actualize it.

"In the end... I'd like to have a date with the current Mononobe, just the two of us."

Smiling tearfully, Iris told me her wish.

"It's a promise."

I instantly replied. Iris smiled happily.

"Thank you. It's already late tonight, so how about tomorrow morning?"

"No problem."

"Then let's wake up earlier tomorrow morning."

Saying that, Iris stood up then left my room lightly.

Leaving only traces of tears...

===Part 5===

The next morning, Iris and I were walking side by side in town with morning mist hanging in the air.

The sun had just risen and the air was still a bit chilly.

It was very quiet in the surroundings. Sounds of car engines and birds singing could be heard clearly.

"Looks like we ran away successfully without anyone discovering."

"By the way, I can't believe you managed to get up so early. Mitsuki would have woken if you used an alarm clock..."

Roused by Iris before 5am, I rubbed my sleepy eyes and commented.

I never expected Iris, who often overslept at school, to get up this early.

"Oh, umm, well—Yeah..."

Iris answered vaguely. On closer examination, her eyes were a bit red.

"Hmm? No way—You didn't sleep?"

"Rather than didn't sleep, it's more like I couldn't sleep... B-But don't worry, I already slept in the van yesterday!!"

Seeing Iris smile bravely, I could not say anything. It would be insensitive to say I was tired despite sleeping so soundly.

"Oh, Mononobe! It's really fine, don't worry. Come on, gimme a smile, it's a rare date after all."

Seeing my expression, Iris spoke cheerfully and held my hand. I was startled by the strength coming from her delicate fingers and smiled back at her. Yeah, Iris would be sad if I made a gloomy face.

"You're right. We should enjoy our date right now."

I gripped Iris' hand in return and looked around.

Slightly farther away from the residential neighborhood was the entrance to the arcade shopping street.

We naturally walked over there.

The shops were not open at this time with only one delivery vehicle stopped there and no one could be seen behind it.

"But is this kind of date okay? There are no shops open right now..."

Would Iris be happy like this? I asked her.

"Don't worry, I'm happy with just taking a walk, because I'm with you, Mononobe. Do you feel bored together with me?"

"No, of course not."

"Then that's enough. This is our date, Mononobe."

Iris smiled happily and we walked arm in arm.

Although this made it harder to walk, compared to before, it gave me a stronger sense of Iris' presence.

Indeed, nothing else would be needed.

Arm in arm, Iris and I walked along the street. Without any memories, I could not introduce things to her. I even had to take care not to get lost.

Hence, we made one round then returned to the vicinity of my house.

The date would be over if we went home just like that. We stopped in front of a park on the side of the road and looked at each other.

—We wanted to stay together longer.

After confirming these feelings, we entered the park.

This was a small park with leisure facilities for small children. At this hour, it was completely deserted.

Maintaining this posture, arm in arm, we sat down on a bench, looking at this park we had all to ourselves.

"We have to get back before the others wake up.

Iris said sadly.

"Not really, it's fine even if this date continued for the entire day. Since we're on vacation, it's fine even if we don't stay in touch. Oh well, although we'll face all kinds of questioning afterwards."

I squinted at the morning sun and answered.

Despite making such a suggestion, I still felt very scared. Perhaps I still wanted to remain with Iris like this indefinitely.

If possible, I wanted time to stop at this moment. It was very spineless, but these were my true feelings.

"Thank you, Mononobe, but... No. We can't worry Mitsuki-chan."

Iris shook her head resolutely. Instead of choosing to escape, she was going to, with determination—

"Iris..."

She was very resilient indeed, always guiding me on the important points.

"Also, no matter how much time we have, the final farewell will always be painful."

Iris smiled dreamily and looked into my eyes.

She was like me... No, she was even more afraid than me, but she did not escape.

"That's why, here—Let's end it here. It's fine to end it like this..."

Saying that, she closed her eyes and lifted her face.

—Such frustration.

Why was I so weak?

As least right now, I needed to become as strong as her.

"Got it..."

Answering briefly, I drew near Iris' face.

Mustering my maximum courage, I slowly approached the end.

My distance between Iris shortened bit by bit. Finally, all I could see was her.

Then we made contact.

Soft, warm, slightly moistened lips.

This was the third and perhaps our last kiss.

In order not to forget this moment, Iris and I kissed for a long time

But ultimately, the end had to come. Iris slowly drew away and ended the kiss quite calmly.

While I was still in a daze...

"Then let's go back," Iris used a cheerful voice to remind me.

With blushing cheeks, she forlornly released my arm and stood up.

I wanted to pull her back and embrace her tightly but that would waste her resolve.

Clenching my fist, I resisted the urge and stood up from the bench.

At this moment, I noticed.

Mitsuki was standing at the park entrance, staring at Iris and me in a shocked expression.

"Wha—"

I exclaimed in surprise. Why was Mitsuki here... No, this park was near the house.

Probably noticing Iris and I had gone out after she woke up, Mitsuki must have gone searching for us.

But this really was the worst timing.

"Ah..."

Meeting my gaze, Mitsuki cried out and took a step back.

But for a moment, I could not move, unable to even call her.

Then Iris ran over.

"Mitsuki-chan!!"

She simply hugged Mitsuki who was trying to flee.

"U-Unhand me! Sorry—for intruding upon you. I had no intention of peeking—"

"No! This is the end! Mononobe has always wanted to turn back into the Mononobe who loves you most! So—Don't run away!"

Iris spoke to Mitsuki in a strong tone of voice.

After hearing this, Mitsuki stopped struggling as hard.

"The end? Turn back... What on earth is this about—"

With a troubled expression, Mitsuki asked Iris.

"Everything, all of it will be explained. Sorry, Mitsuki-chan. What happened just now was my willfulness."

Iris hugged Mitsuki tightly, her shoulders kept shaking.

Mitsuki gradually calmed down and looked in my direction.

"Nii-san..."

After taking a deep breath to calm myself, I walked over to Mitsuki's side.

By this point, there was no way to hide things. But the situation had changed. Thanks to Tia, I was now able to recover my memories.

Furthermore, I had already resolved myself to turn back into Mononobe Yuu. Even if the truth was brought to light, Mitsuki would not despair.

"Mitsuki, you probably noticed I've been hiding some things from you."

I tried my hardest to stay calm and confirmed with Mitsuki.

When I revealed that Yggdrasil was taking over my mind, Mitsuki had asked whether I was still hiding more things.

"Indeed, Nii-san, last time you said that you would tell me once you have retrieved everything."

Troubled, Mitsuki nodded and looked at me.

"Yeah... Although it's a bit early, I'll tell you now."

Resolving myself that there was no turning back, I explained everything to Mitsuki.

===Part 6===

"Wait here for me. I'll go call Tia-chan."

Iris left Mitsuki and I in front of the entrance and went into Mitsuki's old home.

Tia was probably sleeping on the second floor with Lisa. Iris was fetching her to recover my memories.

Having listened to the whole story at the park, Mitsuki now stared in shock at the sky.

"...Seriously, I never would have thought."

Mitsuki whispered.

"Something like losing your memories in exchange to download new data of anti-dragon armaments... Unable to recall living in this town... That kind of thing, even if you tell me—"

Saying that, Mitsuki gnashed her teeth and glared at me sharply.

"Also, even saying immediately that there was no problem because you were going to retrieve your memories immediately—How am I supposed to react? Be sad? Be happy? ...I do not even know what expression to use to face the matter."

Smiling in self-mockery, Mitsuki kicked a pebble by her foot. The rolling pebbled stopped after hitting my shoe.

"I am sorry, Mitsuki."

"What in particular are you apologizing for?"

"For lying to you, Mitsuki... Pretending to be your brother as 'Mononobe Yuu' when I clearly have no memories."

Hearing that, Mitsuki sighed deeply.

"Lying—is definitely not good, but there is no need to feel bothered about pretending to be my brother."

"Huh?"

"Do you think I would fail to notice if someone were to pretend to be my brother? Even having lost your memories, Nii-san, you are still yourself. I still know that, at least."

Mitsuki stared at me with forceful eyes. Then her expression grew gentler.

"So... Whether 'the memories will come back so it is fine' or 'Nii-san will turn back into his original self'... Even if you tell me something like that, none of that would excite me. Moreover, I somehow get the feeling that something larger is brewing... But there is no telling what it might be... What should I do? My thoughts are all knotted together."

In our dialogue, Mitsuki voiced how lost she felt. I did not know how to answer either, hence silence descended upon us again.

Evidently, even after confessing my secret and sharing information, I still could not reach an understanding with Mitsuki.

I was unsure what exactly Mitsuki wanted to express.

"Nii-san... You and Iris-san were kissing, right?"

"Y-Yeah."

Surprised, I nodded.

"Iris-san said it was the end and that once your memories recovered, you would turn back into the Nii-san who loves me most. However... What grounds is that belief founded upon?"

"Well..."

All I could think of was the childhood promise Mitsuki had mentioned after the Basilisk battle.

"Getting married after reaching adulthood. That was what you and I promised, right?"

Mitsuki asked as though reading my mind.

"...That's right."

It was pointless to deny it—I had no choice but to admit.

"Iris-san is nice to a fault."

Mitsuki smiled wryly and spoke softly.

"Ahhh—I still do not get it. Should I be happy? Should I be sad...? Or should I be angry...? Everything is incomprehensible... Everything is—"

Saying that, Mitsuki looked down.

The atmosphere grew heavy again. Thus, after time passed without us saying a word, the main door opened with a clatter.

As though trying to escape the awkward atmosphere, Mitsuki and I both looked at the door. We happened to make contact with Iris who was peering out. We all smiled wryly.

"M-Mononobe... Sorry, the others found out."

In addition to the apologetic Iris and Tia, four more people came out together. Lisa, Firill, Ariella and Ren.

"Ahhh..."

I rested my forehead against my palm in despair. On further thought, asking Iris to bring just Tia out alone was too tall a task. It was unavoidable that the others would discover her.

"So, what are you trying to do? Please explain properly."

Arm crossed, Lisa questioned. Once again, Iris and I explained the situation to everyone.

"More secrets. Give me a break. Even I'm getting mad now, you know?"

"...I'm already mad, and it seems like we're the only ones kept out of the loop."

After learning the whole story, Ariella and Firill stared at me.

To prevent the commotion from attracting my parents' attention, we went over to the earlier park.

Choosing a park over indoors was due to Tia's request. A park where trees grew would apparently allow Yggdrasil to manage the plant network.

"Well, you two should calm down first. Since the memories can be recovered, we should hurry and attempt it. It would not be too late to save the complaints for later."

"Yes, Onii-chan's memories are the most important."

Already in the know, Lisa and Ren began to appease Ariella and Firill.

"That's right, we must not delay any longer. Tia-chan, please. Return Mononobe's memories."

Iris urged Tia seriously.

"Got it..."

Still looking a little sleepy, Tia rubbed her eyes and shook her head to wake herself up.

"Nii-san, is this really for the best?"

Mitsuki asked me sorrowfully.

"Yeah."

I nodded and Mitsuki looked at Iris.

"Mitsuki-chan, I've always been waiting for this moment to arrive."

Iris noticed Mitsuki's gaze and responded with a cheerful smile. It was a smile of resilience without a shred of hypocrisy.

Mitsuki looked like she wanted to say something but her lips moved without making a sound.

"Okay, Yuu, Tia will try hard too."

Under everyone's watch, Tia stood before me.

"What do I need to do?"

"Umm... Basically, Tia will access Yuu's brain next, rather than skin... lips would be better."

For some reason, Tia's face turned bright red while she spoke quietly.

"Sorry, I didn't quite catch that. What kind of contact?"

"Umm... W-Well... A-Anyway—Get down first!"

Saying that, Tia pulled my hand. I had no choice but to listen to her and stoop.

"U-Uh... This isn't a wedding vow kiss yet, okay?"

"Huh?"

Tiny cherry lips drew near and pressed against my lips.

Wha—

Due to this sudden attack, my thoughts halted. With shocked faces, the others watched Tia kissing me like this.

"Mmm..."

Tia kissed more forcefully and stuck her tongue inside my mouth. The instant the tip of Tia's hot tongue made contact with my tongue, there was a pop in my mind as though sparks had exploded.
[[image:UnlimitedFafnir v07 090.jpg|thumb]]

Presumably, electrical access to the brain was established through a passage via oral mucous membranes.

By the time I became aware of the significance of what she had said earlier, Tia had already separated from me.

"Yuu, how do you feel?"

Blushing, Tia asked gently.

"Eh? How should I say this? Umm, my brain feels lighter—"

I answered in confusion. If it was over like this, that would be far too simple a process.

No, perhaps startled by Tia's kiss, I had failed to notice great changes.

I originally expected myself to be replaced by the real "Mononobe Yuu" but there was no special feeling.

"Tia has cleared away the bad stuff Yggdrasil sent into your body. Now you should become able to recall past memories."

"Become able to recall, past memories...? Not return to the way I was?"

"No, Yuu's memories were blocked. After clearing them, you'll naturally be able to remember bit by bit."

In other words, I would not feel a dramatic change in memory right now. I looked at everyone else, stunned as they were, my gaze settling on Mitsuki.

"Ah..."

Past experiences flashed in my mind, but those memories were too vague. I could not even tell when they had occurred. However, the image of Mitsuki's face, from when we were playing in this park, overlapped with her current face.

"N-Nii-san?"

Mitsuki called my name in concern.

By the time I noticed, my cheeks were burning and a single tear was sliding down from my eye.

"Sorry, although I'm not recalling everything, there are vague impressions, the memories are still there, they still remain... At the thought of this, I..."

I frantically wiped the corner of my eye and smiled at the worried Mitsuki.

Seeing me like that, Mitsuki wept with joy.

"Really...? I'm so glad, Mononobe, honestly, I'm so glad."

Seeing Iris crying with a smile, the others seemed to recover their from the shock.

"But Mononobe-kun cannot recall clearly... Is that a problem?"

Firill asked with worry.

"No, it isn't, Firill-san. I believe it is very normal for memories to be difficult to recall clearly. Memories are very ambiguous to begin with, especially those that have not been recalled for a long time. They probably entered a state that is relatively harder to recall."

Arms crossed, Lisa contemplated while offering her insight.

"Then let's take a walk all over town and check out the scenery, how's that? It might jog his memory. After all, this is his hometown."

Ren nodded to agree with Ariella's suggestion.

"That's a great idea."

"Then today, let's all have a tour of Mononobe's hometown."

Iris concurred happily. It looked like she was happy for real. However, as soon as I thought of Iris' last kiss with me, I knew she was pushing herself.

My heart was aching. My feelings for Iris had not disappeared. But while my memories slowly returned, these feelings might no longer remain "number one."

When my thoughts reached this point, I noticed that like me, Mitsuki was paying attention to Iris.

"Mitsuki..."

Seeing the slight expression of suffering from the side of her face, I spoke to her hesitantly. Then Mitsuki smiled wryly at me and said:

"As expected, I still have no idea how to react. Nii-san... Are you happy?"

"Well..."

I was at a loss for words. Seeing me like that, Mitsuki sighed.

"Well, no matter what, you ought to thank Tia-san. Nii-san, for your sake, she... even kissed you."

Mitsuki urged me with complicated expression that seemed a little angry and slightly appalled.

"Yuu..."

Tia looked at me with slight worry. She probably felt worried after seeing I was unable to answer Mitsuki's question immediately. Seeing as I was the one who hoped for this outcome, it would be bad if I did nothing to ease the worry on Tia's face.

"Tia, thank you for returning my memories to me."

Placing my hand on her head with the little horns, I stroked along her hair's direction.

"Yeah... But speak up if you feel anything weird. Tia still isn't familiar with using Yggdrasil's power—"

At this moment, Tia stopped mid-sentence and widened her eyes, staring over my shoulder.

"Tia?"

Just as I inquired, the surrounding suddenly darkened.

The trees in the park were shaking. A strong gust of wind swirled.

"What is going on!?"

I followed Tia's gaze to look at the sky too.

Floating in the sky... was a gigantic monster.

Large enough to blot the sky, its wings featured hard jet-black scales. Tiny black particles were flying around it.

—I had seen it before.

It was the giant dragon that I had seen many times during lectures at Midgard, capable of creating dark matter and the perpetrator of the first dragon disaster.

"'Black' Vritra..."

By my side, Mitsuki spoke its name in surprise.

Occupying Nanato City's airspace, the black dragon was ruling the sky with overwhelming presence.

A majestic sight truly befitting the title of dragon. To believe that having defeated Yggdrasil and retrieved my memories, all problems were resolved... That was an illusion.

Nothing was over.

The dragon possessing the same power as Ds was watching us from high in the sky...
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