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Madan no Ou to Vanadis:Volume 06 Chapter 3

2014-10-20T01:47:34Z

John5dragons: /* Chapter 3: A Foreign Land */

== Chapter 3: A Foreign Land ==

When Gerard Augre visited LeitMeritz, Tigre was still at sea.

The young man, who was about 25 years old, had curled brown hair and bronze eyes, and was wearing an official uniform of red and black. That official uniform showed his status as registrar of the Kingdom of Brune, and the chest seam symbolized the Red Horse embroidery of Brune.

"Though as expected, I have certainly become used to seeing it since this is my third time coming here..."

Waiting at the main gate to meet with Ellen, Gerard sighed slightly while looking up at the towering Imperial Palace.

A year ago he did not even imagine that he would become the registrar of Brune and would visit Zchted on such a regular basis. He originally thought he would inherit from his father the vineyard around Territoire, and spend a nice and quiet life uneventfully, but unfortunately he didn't have such a fate.

All changed after he met Tigrevurmud Vorn.

In Brune’s civil war, Gerard, under Tigre’s command, was responsible for managing logistics and showed excellent ability to adjust the distribution of food, fuel, and weapons work. That ability was highly rated, and after the civil war ended, he began to work in the Imperial Court of the Kingdom of Brune.

Every two months, he would visit LeitMeritz. And he reporting to Ellen the progress of the work on the Vosyes Mountains was one of his duties. It was the third time now, and since the gatekeeper also remembered his name and face, he was able to enter the Imperial Palace without being kept waiting too much.

He was taken to the office after his luggage and clothes were inspected. His luggage was only a linen backpack filled with notes, tools for writing and a bundle of letters.

He was already checked at the main gate, but since he was with luggage this time, there was a need to check it again. After the inspection, Gerard knocked the door.

"Long time no see, Mr. Secretary."

Ellen, who wore a formal dress based on blue, was sitting by the office desk. Lim was standing beside her.

"It's good to see that both Vanadis-sama and also Limlisha-dono seem to be healthy above all."

Gerard put on a smile used for social etiquette and bowed in an exaggerated gesture. Ellen nodded generously, but Lim wordlessly returned the courtesy.

Though Gerard's smile was basically stemming from interpersonal politeness, it was also somewhat sincere. In front of Ellen, ones attitude need not be as rigid. However, if he were facing a big aristocrat or high-ranking official of the court of Brune, he must pay attention to his words and behavior.

"Without delay, let me first report on the Vosyes Mountains Road."

This was the agreement that was established in accordance with the mutual non-aggression pact between Brune and Zchted which was signed half a year ago. As long as the mountain path was upgraded, the shortest highway linking the King's Capital of both countries would be born. The merchants and travelers would surely take this new road, and LeitMeritz which was situated halfway along the way would therefore also profit.

The reason this matter had yet to be resolved was because this mountain range was on the border between Zchted and Brune. If large-scale construction was performed near the border, it would surely be admonished by the others, and the highway being made also meant that aggression actions will be more convenient.

Originally it was a matter that would be accepted no matter what, even if a non-aggression pact was concluded. But Brune was indebted to Zchted, and moreover the contract was exchanged partly because of various circumstances and speculations, therefore such a project could be made possible.

Gerard was already used to this. While he read aloud the report he had prepared in advance, he also fluently answered the questions raised by Ellen from time to time. Gerard was familiar with the status-quo of this road, and he has a clear understanding since he just passed there from Brune on the way here. He answered without hesitation.

After listening to Gerard's report, Ellen smiled contentedly.

"Yeah. It seems to be going smoothly. Good work, Mr. Secretary."

"To hear such words from Vanadis-sama makes me feel relieved. I would also convey as such to our lord."

Gerard bowed in an exaggerated gesture in the same way as the time when he entered the office. Afterward the topic then changed over to casual conversation.

Even if it is called small talk, the main topic was about the situations in their respective countries. Most of the content was for example like what a noble was saying in the country, where there have been disputes within the respective countries, the movements of Muozinel and Asvarre and so on.

"What position does Brune hold concerning the civil war in Asvarre?"

"For our part, as sparks of the war does not affect us, we intend to watch it calmly. Fortunately, Sachstein’s attention seems to be going towards Asvarre, so we are thankful for there not being a threat temporarily on the west side of Brune."

"Currently, there are three main forces in Asvarre. Prince Germaine, Prince Eliot and Princess Guinevere... If one among those sought assistance of Brune, what does Her Highness Princess Regin plan to do?"

"Obtaining desirable results by thrusting one's neck into the quarrel of others is probably something possible only in the world of heroic tales or dramas. Not to mention that our country has yet to recover from the turmoil of half a year ago."

Gerard lifted the corner of his mouth sardonically and shrugged his shoulders. Though Lim frowned at his behavior which lacked etiquette, she was soothed by Ellen's gaze and remained silent to some extent.

"That's right, isn’t it? Please tell Her Highness Regin to take care of herself."

"Thank you for your concern. I won’t fail to convey those words."

Then, just before finishing the chat and leaving, Gerard expressed one wish.

"After this, could I greet Lord Tigrevurmud?"

This was what he applied for whenever he visited LeitMeritz. Tigre was currently a guest here. Although it was only a small matter, it would less troublesome if he got Ellen’s permission.

Gerard thought that he would obtain Ellen’s agreement like before, but this time it was different. As Ellen's face looked glum, she shook her head with an apologetic expression.

"I'm sorry. Lord Tigrevurmud is not here now. He was summoned by His Majesty the King about ten days ago, and went to the King at the Capital Silesia."

"By King Viktor? For exactly what kind of business?"

Speaking with a very troubled voice, Gerard frowned plainly. However, Ellen shook her head again.

"I was not told either. However Lord Tigrevurmud is an important guest, even for His Majesty. So there is no need for Lord Gerard to worry."

"...Is that so. It's regrettable that I'm not able meet Lord Tigrevurmud."

Though Gerard made an expression of disappointment, he backed down quietly without further questioning. He felt that there was nothing more that he could gleam from Ellen.

"By the way, there is something I need to hand over to Lord Tigrevurmud when he returns, may I request Vanadis-sama to fulfilled it for me instead?"

"No problem. What is it?"

As Ellen asked, Gerard took out a bundle of letters from his backpack, which filled up both of his hands, and put them on the desk. Ellen and Lim could not help but stare in wonder. There were nearly twenty letters.

"...What...is this?"

"There are 17 letters. Three of them are applications for marriage meeting. The remaining 14 are applications from Feudal Lords hoping to leave their daughter or niece at his side as trainee maids."

"Marriage meeting? Maid applications?"

Making a face as if she swallowed a bitter medicine, Ellen stared at the pile of letters. Lim’s poker face collapsed instantly, and asked Gerard with a confused look.

"Excuse me, but... Are Her Highness Princess Regin and Lord Massas aware of this?"

Massas was Tigre's father Urz's best friend, and the man who took care of Tigre all the time even after Urz died. He helped Tigre in the civil war of Brune, and Lim who had acted as his assistant trusted his character.

After the end of the civil war he let his son inherit his title and his territory, and accepted the request of Regin and Prime Minister Bodwin to serve the royal court. Lim simply could not believe that he would overlook it.

"Of course. The only reason I brought them was simply because I have already gotten the approval from those two."

Gerard answered as if it were a matter of course. After hearing that Ellen and Lim looked at each other.

Ellen knew that Regin harbored feelings of love for Tigre beyond status or position. Even Lim was vaguely aware of that fact.

Despite that, she let the Feudal Lords send such letters. What was the meaning behind it? Didn't they notice Regin's feelings, or were they aware of that and deliberately ignoring it?

"...Mr. Secretary."

With a cough Ellen somehow regained her composure, and asked with a cautious tone while poking the letters with her fingertip.

"What do these people think of Princess Regin and Lord Tigrevurmud?"

"They naturally swear allegiance to Her Highness the Princess. The assessment of Lord Tigrevurmud should not be low, either. After all, he was the hero in the previous war, and Her Highness the Princess, Lord Massas, and even the knight squadron have deep trust in him. He also has a good relationship with Zchted, so they would naturally want to have good relations with him."

With a hypocritical smile, the secretary with brown hair gave a model answer as a bureaucrat of Brune. Ellen realized that there was something wrong with her method of questioning. It seems that she should say it more bluntly.

"Didn’t Princess Regin feel upset after seeing such a thing? Mr. Secretary, It seems the Feudal Lords' thoughts of your country is a little different."

"...Indeed, thanks to the efforts of Lord Tigrevurmud, the life of Her Highness the Princess was saved, and she became the leader of our country as the successor of the late King Faron. Suppose that kindness becomes love, and Her Highness becomes a maiden in love and continues to yearn earnestly for Lord Tigrevurmud."

At this point, Gerard's face became serious.

"...There cannot be such a thing. Those people think so. Lord Tigrevurmud is a person born from an Earl House in the frontier, and he doesn’t have anything to be proud of other than his archery. Such a figure is not suitable to become the King of the next generation. Her Highness should feel the same way."

Ellen did not answer back to that, and sullenly looked at the pile of letters.

It would not be a lie, that Tigre's assessment was not low. If it were only a good relationship they could still compromise, but putting him on the throne would be out of the question. And they believed that Regin also thought in the same way.

''---It can't be helped.''

Since Ellen, Lim, and also Gerard were in the {{furigana|[Silver Meteor Army]|Unstoppable Silver Flow}}, they knew that Regin trusts Tigre completely and opens her heart to him. However, virtually none of the Feudal Lords knows about this. Even after listening to the rumors of the triumph in the King's Capital Nice, it would be extremely difficult to imagine that their relationship had gone so far.

Lim appeared to have thought of something, and asked Gerard.

"Has Princess Regin said anything about Lord Tigrevurmud?"

"Her Highness is very concerned about Lord Tigrevurmud's situation. In the presence of the minister, she once said that she cannot use wealth, territory, or position to express her gratitude, and that upon his return to Brune she will reward him accordingly."

"W-Well, it is natural. It is thanks to Tigre... Lord Tigrevurmud that she is currently there."

Ellen's face became stiff, though she was able to return to her usual tone. The Vanadis with silver white hair managed to correct herself and nodded. Not being able to express her gratitude with either wealth, position or territory.

Then how on earth was is she going to express her gratitude?

"Also, the fact that Lord Tigrevurmud was only bestowed the title of {{furigana|[Knight of the Moonlight]|Lumiere}} by His Highness King Faron, and the land of Alsace which he inherited from his father is requisitioned and in is currently in the co-management of Her Highness the Princess and Vanadis-sama. In addition, Lord Tigrevurmud himself was forced to leave his homeland, where he was born and raised, and had come to Zchted..."

After saying this, Gerard deliberately stopped his mouth. And then he bowed with an exaggerated gesture while apologising for complaining about it. Able to say such criticism to Ellen without any care, it seemed that his cynic daring had not change so far.

Gerard being able to say things like that, should probably be because he had heard about the story from Tigre. Ellen immediately understood that he deliberately intended to say such things. Most likely, what he just said were the reasons why the Feudal Lords firmly believe that there was no way Regin would love Tigre.

''---This is a decision that we have made, and Tigre has also consented...''

Ellen crossed her arms once again and looked to the pile of letters, then sighed.

Limited by her status, Ellen was also unable to reveal her true feelings, and even if she knew about the attempts of the Feudal Lords, she also had no reason to prevent it. She felt sympathy for Regin who could only confirm these letters with a depressed face. Lim also bore a bitter smile, imagining Massas ruefully sorting these letters.

"...I understand. When Lord Tigrevurmud returns, I will give these to him. I promise you, I will take good care of these letters until he comes back."

"Thank you very much."

Gerard's face seemed relieved, and he left the office this time for sure. After closing the door, in contrast to his relaxed mood, Ellen and Lim looked at the pile of letters with trouble faces.

Gerard, who left the work office, made a request to the soldier who was going to send him off to the main gate.

"Sorry to bother you, but can I stay for a while? There is someone that I want to greet. Of course I have gotten the approval of Vanadis-sama."

The latter half of the sentence was a lie. He knew that the soldier would be unable to judge the truth from the lie immediately. The soldier uneventfully complied. When he said the name of the person he wanted to greet, the soldier agreed to it without any suspicion.

''---Though I was not able to ask either Vanadis-sama nor Limlisha-dono...''

Gerard wanted to know by all means what kind of life Tigre was leading nowadays. Though it was not as if he were personally interested in it, there was a reason behind it.

Regin and Massas would be very glad if he talked to them about Tigre. Especially Regin who brightened her blue eyes until they were shining like a child's, and even the change of her expression was very interesting to see.

As Gerard had greed for success in life like everyone else, in order to please his boss, he had to bring some information about Tigre back.

Walking the corridor of the Imperial Palace led by the soldier, Gerard soon spotted the target. In the figure of a maid with white apron on top of the black long sleeves skirt, it was a girl who was in a twin tail chestnut hair. Gerard called out to her with a radiant smile.

"Long time no see, Teita-san."

The girl, Teita, also noticed Gerard and politely greeted him with a smile.

"Ah! Gerard-san, you came."

"Yeah. I was just talking with Vanadis-sama earlier on."

And then, Gerard and Teita chatted for a while. There were many topics that she was interested in, like Alsace's situation or matters about Massas who was fed up with the royal court duty. Teita then happily talked about the events of Tigre's life recently in the Imperial Palace.

"Massas-sama is doing well as usual, huh?"

"He is often bickering with his Excellency the Prime Minister Bodwin-sama."

"Like Gerard-san and Rurick-san?"

To the innocent words of Teita, the secretary of Brune was at loss for words. Though he would just think of it as sarcasm or provocation if it were another person who said it, because he knew that this girl did not have these intentions, he was troubled about how to respond.

Suddenly looking away, Gerard saw the soldier who were standing silently nearby. Because he bore the duty to guide Gerard to the main gate, he did his best to maintain his smile while faithfully waiting for them to finish talking.

"Excuse me, but we are probably going to take awhile. Since I will feel bad for making you wait any longer, I think that it should be alright to let her guide me to the main gate instead."

Though the soldier looked troubled, Teita was a guest and is also the maid of Tigre, in addition to being trusted by Ellen and Lim. Living here for half a year was also not short at all. The soldier briefly explained the situation to Teita, and asked if it was okay.

"I understand. If it is something like that, I will bear the task to see off Gerard-san properly to the main gate."

Just like that, Teita watched the soldier leave. Gerard secretly gloated at the moment. Up till now it all went as planned.

"By the way, Teita-san. About Lord Tigrevurmud."

With his radiant smile intact, Gerard changed the topic of discussion. Teita looked at Gerard with a surprised face.

"...Is there something wrong with Tigre-sama?"

"Vanadis-sama said that he went to the King's capital Silesia, but... Has Teita-san not heard anything from Lord Tigrevurmud?"

"... No, he didn't say anything special."

Teita denied while shaking her head, but her eyes swam for an instant, and her wavering voice lowered. Gerard did not overlook the subtle change on her face. Instinctively, he believed that something must have happened. He boldly stepped forward, closing the distance between them, and strongly stared at Teita’s face.

"...Really?"

Teita flinched from Gerard's abrupt action, and her shoulders shivered as she retreated a step. Gerard took another step forward promptly and shortened the distance to her again.

"Th-That..."

Teita had on a helpless expression, continuing to shake her head in denial, such that even Gerard could not bear it in his heart. However, this was unavoidable in order to find out what she was hiding.

"Stop that."

A voice suddenly came from behind. A shock and a pain ran to his head, and Gerard staggered. When he looked back while holding his head, a young man wearing armor was standing there.

With a well-featured face and a slippery head without a single hair, he had a sheathed sword in his hand. It seemed that he clubbed Gerard's head with it.

"Even if it was only for a short period of time, what intention do you have to threaten the maid of the person whom I used serve, you malicious person of Brune? Depending of your answer, I might club you again."

"When I wondered who it was, it was just you... "

Gerard groaned in annoyance. The man's name was Rurick. Despite his short fellowship with Gerard, they had (what we might call) a close bond relationship.

"It is bad for my reputation for you to say that I threatened her. I could not possibly do something like that to her."

"Even the eyes of five-year-old child would see that you are scaring her. You bastard, what are you trying to do?"

As if to protect Teita, Rurick was standing in between the two of them and stabbed Gerard with sharp eyes. The secretary of Brune sighed.

"You may not understand even if I explained it to you who has dull eyes and a cloudy brain, but I was only talking with Teita-san about Lord Tigrevurmud. Since there was a matter in which I was more interested in, I leaned forward carelessly."

"...This insidious damp man says so. Teita-dono?"

Looking back at Teita, Rurick asked with a very serious face and tone. Teita, with a troubled expression, looked back and forth between Rurick and Gerard's faces.

"E-Err... What Gerard-san says is true. While talking about Tigre-sama, we probably became a little too excited."

Tough Gerard was inwardly relieved to hear the resolute and decisive words of the maid with fox-tail millet colored hair, but her words did not seem to dispel Rurick’s suspicion.

"Teita-dono. You don't need to force yourself to cover up for this man. Even if you are afraid of a reprisal, in place of Lord Tigrevurmud, I won't let him lay a single finger on you."

"Are you trying to be a knight in shining armour?"

"I'm originally a knight. That's why."

Replying immediately to Gerard's misnomer, Rurick stared at Teita. As Teita unintentionally laughed, she slightly bowed to show her gratitude.

"Thank you Rurick-san. But he really did not threaten me."

"...... I understand, since Teita-dono says so."

Though he could not accept it, if she said it like that, even Rurick could not hold on any further. However, seeming to feel the need to give a warning to Gerard, the bald head knight turned towards the secretary with brown hair.

"I must report about what I saw just now to Limlisha-dono just in case."

"Wait a minute. Why do you have to do something like that?"

Anxiety was mixed in with Gerard's voice. As for what was bad for him, that was because Lim was friendly with Massas. In the worst case scenario, she might convey this matter to Massas in a letter or something.

"It will only be natural to report to the top if something unusual happened within the castle."

Folding his arms, Rurick proudly replied. Gerard was not able to retort to this sound argument. Though he requested for help from Teita with a gaze, but only an apologetic smile was returned.

''---It seems that I have no choice but to withdraw here...''

It was certain that Rurick would become a hindrance if he kept up any further with this conversation. Besides, he was able to obtain something out of that small talk about Tigre's current lifestyle. As tales of his travel to Regin and Massas, even if it was not complete, in terms of quality and quantity, it should certainly be satisfying enough.

''---And if I tried to find about the rest myself? First of all, I must dispatch someone to the King's Capital Silesia and then examine what kind of business Lord Tigrevurmud was called for by the King of Zchted.''

"Well then, I will leave first since I will apparently be haunted by an unpleasant gaze if I stay here."

"Ah, then let me see you off to the main gate."

As Teita remembered and said so, Gerard was accompanied to the main gate by both Rurick and her. Although Rurick was constantly speaking badly about him while they were walking down the corridor, since Teita was nearby, their squabbling did not reach to the extreme levels, and gradually it ended.

"May the blessing of the gods be with you, Gerard-san."

Teita waved. Gerard waved in return to say goodbye to her while deliberately ignoring Rurick's presence. Then he left the Palace.

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It was seven days later that Tigre reached Asvarre across the Breton Peninsula at the northwest edge of the kingdom of Brune since he got on the '[{{Furigana|Proud Beluga|Górdyj Beluga}}]'.

When looking at the port town of his destination from afar, Matvey relaxed, and an expression of relief spread through the passengers' faces. Two days later, the tense atmosphere that covered the ship finally defused.

"It seems like we have finally reached our destination safely."

On the deck, Matvey looked back at Tigre and Olga and smiled brightly. Although it was just a smile on the face of this man, it looked as though he was up to no good, and it's a little scary. However Tigre, who had become accustomed to that in this sea trip, nodded with a smile.

After passing the peninsula two days ago, the sailors became laconic, and there was always a dangerous air among them, as though they were in a battlefield. Even the passengers also took in such a mood, and kept their weapons beside them at all times.

Tigre, Olga and Matvey were the only people who remained calm.

"It’s because the pirates may appear."

To Tigre who asked about the strange mood, Matvey replied unhappily.

"Though I think Lord Tigrevurmud is aware of that matter, among the two princes who are currently fighting in Asvarre, Prince Eliot employs pirates as subordinates. Prince Eliot's base is in Asvarre island, and the surrounding area is just like their backyard for those guys."

Matvei frowned and explained while drawing a map in the air with his fingertip.

"Aren't they prohibited from targeting a merchant ship of Zchted?"

It was Olga who asked so. She wrapped herself in a mantle whenever she comes out on the deck, and she covered her eyes with a hood.

"Sadly, in this world there are words that are very convenient to use such as ‘made a mistake’."

As Matvey shrugged, he said that he would look at the state of the surroundings and left from there. Tigre was looking at the scenery of the small port town that gradually approached when Olga tugged at his sleeve.

"Tigre. Can you shoot that down?"

Extending her arm straight, what Olga pointed to were seabirds flying gracefully under the cloudy sky. After observing the seabirds for a moment, Tigre shook his head.

"It is meaningless even if I shoot it down."

Seeming not to understand Tigre's answer, Olga tilted her head.

"It will only fall into the sea even if I shoot it down. Though this ship is loaded with a shallop, I cannot possibly trouble so many people just to collect a seabird."

He explained so while looking at the seabirds, but Olga seemed to interpret it as making excuses. She narrowed her eyes that were visible through her hood and said with a bored voice.

"You travel only with a bow and handled it with great care, that's why I thought that you would be very confident... or do you think I am deliberately making things difficult for you?"

"I do not think you are deliberately making things difficult for me, but there is definitely a little difficulty in hitting this target."

Tigre, with an indifferent look, replied softly to Olga. This was because he knew that she didn't say it just on a whim.

While on board, other than sleeping, they didn't have much else to do, and therefore Tigre talked to her a lot. She was heartily surprised that Tigre only had a dagger in addition to his bow.

"Is it really so rare?"

In turn, this even made Tigre feel that it was unbelievable. Olga was surprised, or stunned.

"Most people have a sword and a hatchet as weapons. And after that many have spear and ax. Even if there are people who use the bow in addition to such weapons, I have never seen people using only a bow."

"A hatchet is good. I will prepare that from the next time onwards."

Tigre also carried a hatchet when hunting. It was because it was convenient to cut away tall weeds, obstructive branches and leaves. However, he never thought of carrying it while on a trip. To Tigre who was impressed, Olga asked.

"Are you that confident with the bow?"

"More than with a sword or a spear."

Though every word that he said was the truth, but Olga's gaze at Tigre showed that she was at a lost for words.

While recalling such a conversation several days ago, Tigre observed the seabirds again.

Though they were not that fast, they were flying pretty high. The wind was blowing, and since they were on a ship, the footing was also unstable. It would probably be extremely difficult for someone with ordinary skills to make an arrow hit the seabirds.

''---To begin with, Can that stuff be eaten? This is my first time seeing such a bird...''

Tigre returned his eyes to the port town while intending to ask Matvey later. There was a small hill in the vicinity of the shore, and the gently undulating terrain filled with broad streets made up the cityscape. He saw a building that seemed like a palace on the hill. One might overlook the sea from there.

The captain roared out a command loudly, 'The [{{Furigana|Proud Beluga|Górdyj Beluga}}]' folded its white sails and began slowing down little by little. The ship’s power was converted to wood-pulp, and it went forward to the port town under the leadership of the pilot vessel.

Maria was one of the very common port cities in the kingdom of Asvarre.

The harbor was crowded with people handling the cargo. Roadside stalls were located on both sides of the street, the merchants, the travelers and the housewives who came out for shopping, all sorts of people were coming and going, and the atmosphere was wrapped in a chaotic buzz.

A huge fish that was a long as a man is tall was chopped into chunks on the spot for sale. The basket was filled with small fish that were just caught, and were still alive and kicking. The sea water dripped from the shellfish piled in heaps in the barrels. Moreover, mushrooms, cabbage and wild grass were also placed on the mat for sale.

"It is lively, but not as much as in Lippner. I wonder if it is because of the civil war."

As Tigre gave his honest impression, Olga beside him also nodded.

"The number of ships is different, though the port size is about the same."

At those words, Tigre looked at her with a surprised face. Even when talking about the bow, this girl’s calm was completely at odds with her age, as if she was accustomed to traveling in general. Tigre was constantly surprised after leaving Lippner, and thus he did not manage to observe both the port and the ship well.

'The [{{Furigana|Proud Beluga|Górdyj Beluga}}]' anchored on the wharf, disembarking passengers in succession.

Tigre and Olga were waiting for Matvey and thus got down last.

Though Tigre finally set his foot on the hard ground after a long time, he felt a sense of incongruity to his body and stamped several times on the spot. Olga asked him with a wondering face.

"What are you doing?"

"I may only be tired, but I feel like my body is still shaking."

"...I also feel that, too. What is it?"

The two looked at each other tilting their head. It was Matvey that gave them a clear answer.

"We are calling it wave motion sickness (drunkenness), since the body got used to the state of vibration. It will be mostly wear off if you leave it for awhile."

"How long will take if we leave it be?"

Olga asked with an uncomfortable voice. Matvey frowned and answered.

"If you walk around for awhile, your body should get used to the hard ground again. Although there are rare cases where the illness becomes worst for the person, but you will probably be alright since you did not get seasick. Shall we go eat for the time being?"

Matvey led the way out of the port, walking down the street.

''---As expected, it is different from Brune or Zchted after all.''

The fence surrounding houses, wood materials and assembly methods, the pattern of the walls, as well as the structure of the roof. The differences of these details, as well as the conversations of people that leaked to the ear strengthened the feeling of having come to a foreign land. Tigre did not understand nor recognise the words that they occasionally saw as well.

Before long, Matvey chose one shop and entered. Tigre and Olga also followed. A fragrant smell assailed their nose the moment they passed through the door, and the noise inside struck their eardrums.

In this snug store, more than half the seats were already filled. The guests were not just the residents of the town, there were also passengers and sailors. Deep in the store, the three people sat around a round-topped table, and a young waitress squeezed through the crowd to pass to Matvey a menu.

Tigre was looking around the store. Such places did not change wherever he went.

"After this we are going to meet with someone."

Tigre looked at Olga who was covered with the turban over her eyes even when in the store. Although this caused her to seem very suspicious, other guests were also far from being decent. Thus he decided not to mention it.

"We plan to leave this town today at the earliest. What do you intend to do?"

After being asked this question, Olga cast down her eyes, seeming to think about something. She paused and opened her mouth after about a count of three.

"May I accompany you until midway? Concerning meals and lodging, I will pay my share myself. I won't do something like causing you trouble."

"If you tell us the purpose of your trip."

As Tigre replied so, Olga remained silent once again. Perhaps wanting to ease the atmosphere, Matvey was about to say something. Tigre held him back and continued.

"I won't ask you to explain in detail. Like how I said it just now, I am going to meet a certain person, it is enough if the extent of what you tell me is something like that. I won't even ask your identity. However, it would be good if you can describe at least that much to us."

During the sea trip, when he was free, Tigre would think about Olga's situation, but he could not reach a conclusion.

No matter how you look at it, she just did not fit with her age. She also seemed to be accustomed to traveling, and she also had a splendid axe hung to her waist. Even when she was in front of him or Matvey, she was neither perturbed nor scared, and she had a calm and brave attitude.

If she was an itinerant entertainer or a bard, then it was strange that she did not have her tools for work. If she was a fugitive guilty of some crime, her behavior was rather sloppy (her words and deeds were rather ostentatious). Even though he did not ask her much, but she also did not talked too much about herself. It was like saying that she was suspicious of him.

An extreme thought would be the possibility of her being spy, but as expected, she was too young and it would be rather conspicuous.

This silence lasted a long time. As the waiter carried the beer which that was filled to the brim in big glasses made of ceramic and put them on the table, Olga finally spoke.

"...Is it no good if I say that there is something that I want to see?"

She looked at Matvey and Tigre. They showed neither approval nor disapproval.

"Does that mean there is a place where you want to go?"

To Tigre's question, Olga shook her head.

"I just want to walk around this country properly, and hear various stories in the towns and villages that we will drop by in. I only want to go to those towns and villages, meaning there isn't particularly any place where I want to go."

It became more and more incomprehensible. Leaving aside Brune and Zchted which currently have no signs of war, here was Asvarre.

Tigre violently rummaged his darkish red hair and sighed. As he looked towards Matvey.

"My orders were to assist you."

It seemed that he entrusted him with the decision. Thus as Tigre asked him whether it was fine with his gaze, the scary-looking sailor said with a happy smile.

"Sailors always encounter various mishap situations on the sea. If I leave a young girl all alone just to loaf around, the beluga on my back will look down on me."

Tigre thanked him again and said sorry. Rather than being Tigre's subordinate, he was only cooperating because it was Sasha's request. But he was willing to respect the will of a youngster who probably did not have even half of his age.

"I would like to hear from the man who looks good with the white dolphin, what are our future plans?"

"We will leave the town as soon as we can acquire horses. We will arrive at our destination city after two or three days. Though it is a camping-out for tonight, we will stay at a small village along the highway tomorrow."

Matvey who was probably expecting such a question answered it smoothly without any pause. Tigre purposely made a severe expression and looked at Olga again.

"We don't mean to stay long in Asvarre. We will return to Zchted quickly after we finish our business. So if you do not mind, our trip together will be until that town."

Having Olga accompanying the both of them was not without its benefits. Since it would be very difficult for others to imagine them to be secret agents if they took a child along.

"...I understand. Then, until that town."

Olga moved her small body and bowed to Tigre and Matvey respectively.

"Well, I wish us a happy journey in this country, cheers!"

The trio each picked up a cup, and bumped them together lightly. Tigre gulped down the beer vigorously. After drinking about half of the cup, he frowned.

"It is very bitter, this beer."

Though he also drank beer in both Brune and Zchted, he had not drank any kind of beer that had left such a bitter taste on the tongue thus far. Distorting her facial expression underneath her turban, Olga seemed to think so too. Only Matvey’s smile remained.

"There is also a way of drinking it while diluting it with water, wine or herb. Or, would you like to drink another liquor?"

While still at a lost as to what to do, the dishes were served. There was oatmeal and beef stewed with liquor which was Asvarre's peculiar dishes. And moreover, since it was situated at the seashore, there was also salmon and cabbage soup, grilled cod fish with its stomach stuffed with herbs and mushrooms, and many other kinds of fish and shellfish as well.

Also on the table, bread coated with crushed peanuts and mutton fried soybean was lined up. All these had fragrant smells drifting out from the dishes, and just by looking at it, saliva accumulated in the mouth. They were at loss as to where to start.

The oatmeal had a unique smell and texture, and since the beef that was stewed with liquor had a strong flavor, it was just right eating it with bread. The salmon that was used as the base of the soup used salt marination ahead of time, and thus the salt taste that entered in the soup was just right.

As Tigre and the others smacked their lips over the many dishes, while they were talking about their cruise until today and their impression of this town, they were also listening to the conversations from other tables.

"...It seems that before we left Zchted the situation here had not changed."

It was about the fight between Prince Germaine and Prince Eliot. Although small-scale battles occurred frequently, it seemed that both sides failed to gain any advantage against the other.

"There may be a change happening soon. Because it seems that Prince Eliot left the Asvarre island that is his base, and came to the continent."

Similarly overhearing the nearby conversation, Matvey said.

"It is probably to encourage the soldiers of his army."

"There is also the possibility that he may personally lead them himself. As for the number of soldiers, the fact that Prince Eliot's side is superior didn't change."

After answering so, Matvey picked up a tender piece of fish to his mouth. Olga put her glass down and asked.

"I heard that among Prince Eliot's troops, the pirates account for a great number of them, but are they really that many in numbers?"

"You know that half a year ago, a civil war occurred in Brune. I heard that thousands of the pirates were once remnants of the defeated army who fled to the North at that time."

After listening to Matvey say these words, Tigre almost choked with his food stuck in his throat.

"Others are Sachstein’s mercenaries, as well as a group of people known as sea people, it's quite a mixed bag of people. And if this messed up situation drags on for much longer, many more will lose their jobs and livelihoods, and Zchted will also definitely be affected. For example..."

Stopping his hand that was eating, Matvey suddenly put on a serious expression.

"As there are those who are making a living by trading with Asvarre merchants, what will happen when they are no longer able to trade because those merchants were killed due to the civil war? You may say that they should look for new trading partners, but if such a thing was so easily found, they would not be having such a hard time."

Listening to the conversation of the two people, Tigre tore the bread roughly and threw it into his mouth.

Even if it was to escape from starvation, becoming a pirate was not something allowed. Misfortune will never become a reason to dispossess (to deprive) an innocent person. So, instead of becoming a pirate, was it better to starve and die? No, that's not right as well. What should be done is…

"Lord Tigrevurmud."

Unwittingly, Tigre fell into silence with a serious face. Matvey said with a soothing tone and a fearful expression.

"Are you tired from the sea trip? The food is becoming cold you know?"

"Ah, no, I was just thinking about the upcoming trip."

"For us, here is a foreign land. Although there may be some things that will make us unhappy, but I hope you will not be so depressed."

"...That's right. Thank you."

It was for Matvey's consideration towards him that Tigre expressed his gratitude. Matvey understood what the young man was getting worried and angry about, so he persuaded him gently.

Tigre fiercely stretched out his hand to the remaining food on the table. To face Germaine in an adequate condition with both stamina and energy, he convinced himself that he must properly eat from now.

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Along the road flanked by a small hill, a small village came into view when they exited the forest. Since they left the port town of Maria, two days had already passed.

The three people were on horseback and had tied their luggage to the saddle. Matvey led the way, followed by Tigre and lastly Olga.

Though Tigre thought that Olga was used to traveling, she was also proving it by her actions. When they camped out yesterday, she managed to hunt two wild hares in only a half koku.

In addition, Tigre also shot down two wild birds, and thus the supper of that day became very luxurious. Olga also did really well when handling the birds and hares. She continued the work with much finesse, drawing out blood, skinning and plucking the feathers of the birds easily, and Tigre was impressed.

"Though it is still daylight, we will rest in this village for today."

While looking up at the bright sunshine in the cloudless sky, Matvey that was at the vanguard said those words.

"If we leave on the early morning of tomorrow, we may arrive at Valverde, which is our destination, at the afternoon."

After finishing the harvest, there were withered grass stalks scattered everywhere in the field, and the farmers were resting by either sitting or lying down. Opposite the field, there were simple houses lined up row by row, with roofs made from black asphalt with small slabs of stone interspersed here and there. Remembering the villages of his hometown, nostalgia crossed Tigre’s eyes.

Suddenly one farmer turned around and faced their way, noticing Tigre and the others. His calm face changed radically into one that was mixed with fear and suspicion, and he called out to other farmers and ran away hurriedly.

"...What's going on?"

For villagers to be wary of strangers was not a rare sight. However, Tigre sensed a different atmosphere from them.

"Isn’t it because Matvey-san’s face scared them?"

Olga muttered so, and Matvey showed an exaggeratedly sorrowful face. Even Tiger could not refrain from laughing. It was unusual and rare for this girl to say a joke, and thanks to that the strained mood softened.

"In any case, I do not want to scare them too much. Let's get down from the horses."

Since talking on horseback would probably intimidate the other party. Getting off the horse, the three people went to the village by pulling the reins of the horses. At this moment, one man walked their way. His linen clothes were stained with soil, and his face had a trace of wiped sweat. One look was enough to tell that he was working on the farms until just a while ago.

"Dear travelers, what kind of business do you have with this village?"

"We would like to ask for food and overnight accommodation. And we would like to acquire new horses as well."

It was Matvey who could speak the Asvarre’s language fluently that answered, and he took out several pieces of silver coins from his breast pocket and handed them to the man. After looking at the silver coins, the man glanced at Tigre and Olga. Tigre said with a smile to reassure him.

"There are also such villages in my homeland. We are only passing by and we don't have any intentions to interfere with your work."

Matvey conveyed it again in Asvarre’s language. The man let out a breath of relief, and seemed to lose some of his initial wariness.

Tigre and the other two were guided to the man's house. The man seemed to be the village mayor and he was living in the only 2-story building in this village. There was a barn and a stable near the house too, and he had his family help move the horses there. Tigre and the others were provided with a spare room on the second floor of the house.

Though there was nothing in the room, if there was something they desired, the man said that they would try to prepare it as long it was possible. Tigre left negotiations to Matvey and walked to the window.

He could overlook the entirety of the village from the window, and he even saw the entrance of the village where they came from. There were children who were looking up at Tigre who was standing by the window with great interest, but when he waved his hand, some would hide quickly or flee in every direction. There were also several who waved their hand back awkwardly.

"Lord Tigrevurmud. The talk has been settled."

At Matvey’s voice, Tigre turned towards him.

"It is impossible to sleep on a bed, but it seems that they have prepared three thick blankets, so there is one per person. The meal will be a moment later. He said that we will have one chicken with soup and bread. We also have three buckets of hot water prepared for us."

After saying till there, Matvey suddenly lowered his voice and asked whether or not he should negotiate for one more chicken happily. Tigre shook his head with a bitter smile.

Rather than say he was trying to be polite, it should be said that because the villagers were already a little wary of them, he wanted to avoid doing things that would agitate them. This is a more accurate statement.

Laying the blanket which had just been brought over on the floor, Tigre lied down on it. As he stretched his limbs to the fullest, he felt extremely relaxed and comfortable. Olga displayed an astonished expression. When the person of the village left the room, she removed the turban that she was wearing.

"How indolent..."

"Because there hasn't been much chance to relax like this during the past few days, that's why."

"Indeed. I wonder if I can also enjoy the feeling of comfort of lazing my whole body for a while as well."

Matvey agreed, as he also laid on the blanket in the same way. As the dimly expressionless Olga looked down at the two men, she laid her body on the blanket.

Over a period of time, the trio did not do anything, lying down in silence.

Then, the time that passed was only about a half koku. Tigre frowned suddenly. He had a feeling that he heard something like a scream in the distance.

Tigre and Olga woke up almost simultaneously. One moment later, Matvey also got up. Tigre grabbed his black bow, grabbing his quiver with arrows and move towards the window. He examined the situation outside carefully.

''--- What happened? Those guys are...''

There were thirty, no around forty men in the village. They had a discernibly rough atmosphere about them, and despite being armed there was no uniformity in their equipment. If there were some people who were wearing riveted leather armor, there were also those wearing chain mail. The weapons were a huge mix, with there being swords or spears, axes, pikes and even mallets.

And every house of the village have shut their doors firmly, as if waiting for the storm to pass while holding their breath. Only several people were in the fields, standing together with their horses or cows, looking blankly at this scene.

The men set their eyes on one house, then started beating their spears, pike and mallets against the door while shouting loudly. Stepping over the wrecked door, several people went into the house, which were then followed by screams.

"Are they... Brigands?"

"It is possible that those bandits have their stronghold in the neighborhood."

Matvey who was looking at the situation across the window from the side opposite of Tigre, replied in a calm tone.

''---That's not right, it would be strange if they were truly bandits.''

Tigre frowned. If this were truly an attack, then the attitude of those men was too laid-back. The villagers too, rather than running away, were only shutting their doors firmly.

Even as he was thinking, there were those who attacked the houses of other villagers, or those who went towards the field who surrounded and beat the farmers. There were even those who bludgeon livestock to death while laughing happily.

It was certain that one would be trembling violently in fear if they were to be timid in nature. It was a terrible spectacle that made Tigre sick just by looking at it. An extremely furious Tigre stretched his right hand to his quiver, but at this moment the door of the room was knocked on. Matvey moved quickly and went to open the door.

A woman of about 45 years old was there. She was from the village chief's family. Though her face was paled, she insisted that we would be safe as long as we were here, and that we should close the sliding shutter and remain still.

"What are these guys? Brigands?"

To Tigre's question, the woman shook her head wearily.

"Those people are the soldiers of His Highness Germaine."

Not only Tigre, but even Matvey and Olga opened their eyes wide at that answer.

" Prince Germaine’s soldiers...? Those guys?"

It was an unbelievable story, but there was no reason for this woman to tell them such a lie. Above all, with this explanation, their behavior as well as the reactions of villagers finally made sense.

At that time, the woman's look turned to Tigre's hand. To the left hand which grasped the black bow tightly, and the right hand which was extracting an arrow.

"W-What do you plan to do?"

The woman's voice was shaking in fear. Tigre did not answer. She trotted over and clung onto the hands of the youngster. She pleaded with a face and voice that seemed about to burst into tears at any moment.

"Please. Don't do anything strange. Please..."

"But... But, how could you let those people do as they please!"

When Tigre painfully spit out those words, tears started to flow from the edges of her eyes and she twisted her expression.

"You will leave here tomorrow, right? We will live in this village not only tomorrow, but also the next day and the day after that."

Feeling bitterness spreading within his mouth, Tigre was not able to answer to her mournful voice.

Even if Tigre sent away these soldiers here, the situation would not improve. They will take revenge for themselves on this village soon after. In the worst case, they might burn the village saying the villagers defied Prince Germaine.

They must endure it until the soldier's tyranny had passed. Even if they had to make sacrifices, they must endure it.

It was the way that this village chose.

Although the woman tried to continue her words further, a scream that came from outside cut off her words.

While only moving his head Tigre looked outside from the window, and saw that several girls were pressed down by many soldiers as they were dragged to the center of the village. Villagers who apparently tried to stop it were beaten and were crouching down before the statue.

"Matvey."

Tigre suddenly called the name of the sailor of white beluga. To the dreadfulness with which the voice was tinged with, Matvey's shoulders shook with a startle.

"Tie up this person. No, tie up all those present in this house and bring them to the first floor. And then, block up the first floor with whatever you can use. The doors and windows, everything."

The woman and Olga both made an expression of astonishment. Matvey immediately moved to obey Tigre's instructions, and he bound the woman's arms from behind.

"What are you trying to achieve?"

Tigre did not answer back to Matvey's question. Moving his quiver of arrows to his waist, he placed his foot on the window frame. In the next moment, he clung to the wall on the outside with a light motion and quickly climbed up on the roof. No one among the soldiers on the ground noticed.

Tigre set up the bow when settling down on the roof and nocked an arrow. He aimed at the soldier who was going to pounce on a girl. The distance was approximately 100 alsins. A piece of cake.

The shot arrow cut through the wind, flew and went through the head of the man as though it was sucked towards it. The body of the man who ceased to breathe inclined and fell down beside the girl. Several people doubtfully turned their eyes to their friend, and as they saw the arrow in his head, the second arrow from Tigre was already released.

The arrow went through his throat, and the arrowhead piercing through his throat was stained with blood. The man fell down on the spot and writhed about painfully without being able to utter a single sound.

The men finally noticed the existence of an enemy. On the other hand, Tigre, without changing his cold expression even one bit, shot the third arrow and killed the third person. Flashing in his mind was the memory of one year ago.

It was in Alsace, the central city Celesta that is his hometown. Zaien, the son of Duke Thenardier, invaded with his soldiers, causing many private houses to be destroyed and burned, and many people lost their lives.

The state of the girls being held down by the soldiers awakened the young man's memory of the time when Teita was being attacked by Zaian.

When he thought of the scene that he saw then, it was not within Tigre to be able to overlook what was happening now in silence.

As Tigre shot and killed the third person, Matvey was tying up the woman skillfully on the second floor under the roof. He also carefully gagged her, and then pushed a dagger against her neck. Although he would not do something like hurting her, his scary face was sufficient to make quite an impact.

"Even Lord Tigrevurmud can give such a cruel order. It might be a little painful, but please forgive me."

"...Please, explain."

It was Olga, who watched the course of things in silence until then, that asked Matvey. Doubt and suspicion were swirling in her black pupils.

"Don't you understand? No, excuse me. Let me explain it later since my hands are full now. I will be able to explain it to you earlier if you help me."

To the answer of the Matvey who seemed happy, the virtually always dimly expressionless Olga showed a slight change in her expression. She frowned, and while lost in her thoughts, her eyes went around the inside of the room and then were directed to the outside of the window.

"Will it also be counted as helping if I cut down those guys outside?"

Matvey, who was going to leave the room with the woman whom he had restricted, suddenly stopped.

Although he was also surprised that Olga's tone lost the usual politeness, what was more important was that her voice had become even more colder, the scary-looking sailor couldn't help turning around. He tried to open his mouth to ask what she meant, but was forestalled.

"Yes or no? Answer only that. Your hands are full, right?"

"...It would be convenient if you could leave one person alive, but otherwise do as you like."

Only by using his utmost was Matvey able to answer like so. After he finished speaking, Olga started moving. She kicked the floor, slipped through the side of Matvey and ran down the hallway.

Matvey continued standing stunned after watching her leave, and he finally came to his senses upon feeling the gaze of the woman.

At this time outside the house, Tigre just shot and killed the sixth man.

''---That was a terrible miscalculation...''

As for the soldiers, though half was running about in confusion and were still reeling from the surprise attack, the remaining half were trying to counter attack following the directives of a man who seemed to be the adjutant.

Tigre had already shot and killed the commander who led them.

At first he took down the commander to confuse them, and then he would reduced their number and force them to retreat.

Though Tigre had planned so and it went smoothly until the first half, the adjutant who fled quickly into the cover of a building scolded the soldiers harshly and gradually restored their morale.

When the commander fell down, it was natural for the adjutant to act as his substitute, but the fact that this adjutant managed to splendidly take over the reins of the troops could be seen as miraculous. Even a decent army rarely bounced back this early.

''---Well, how do I defeat them then?''

While nocking an arrow to the black bow, Tigre thought calmly about his next move. Although it looked as if he had an overwhelming advantage, Tigre knew very clearly that it was not the case.

Tigre could not help but surrender if the soldiers of Germaine held a villager hostage while hiding themselves in the cover of the buildings. Even if Tigre forsook the hostage, they would use the villagers as a shield to his arrows. If they protected themselves that way, then surrounded the house he was on, the fight would become extremely difficult.

"The enemy is only one person, you know? You bunch of useless fools, What are you afraid of?"

"Do you think I could do something like this alone? How about you stop acting like a rat and step forward instead of only letting your underlings come out."

In order to cover up the scoldings of the adjutant, Tigre also issued a roar that spread throughout the village. He had already shot down 8 people. Since they were being sniped from a highly advantageous position, Germaine's soldiers can't help but act cowardly. Tigre originally wanted to use this method to keep them suppressed.

However, at this point in time, one of soldiers suddenly threw an adze (hand ax) over at him. Although Tigre avoided it at once by twisting his body, he destroyed his posture and slipped. He narrowly avoided falling down from the roof, and the adjutant cried out without overlooking the chance he gained.

"RUSH!"

After receiving his instruction, four soldiers ran towards the house on which Tigre was standing.

"Oh no-!"

Though Tigre shot an arrow quickly and took down one soldier, the three remaining soldiers did not slow down, and rushed to the door.

It was at that time. The door was suddenly opened from the inside, and a girl with a petite body who wrapped herself in a mantle ran out. It was Olga.

When the soldiers of Germaine first saw someone running out of the house, they immediately took up wary postures. However, after they understood that their opponent was just a child, they mercilessly swung down their weapons which they had in their hands.

Consecutive dull sounds were heard and blood splattered about suddenly. Shocked, Tigre shouted out her name. However, in the next moment, the ones who screamed out and fell down were Germaine's soldiers.

Olga, as always with the turban covering her eyes, was silently standing inside the puddle of blood which was slowly spreading. In her hand, there was now a dark red axe stained with blood.

''---In one blow? No two blows...''

It was not only Tigre, even the village girls who were late to run away and failed to get out in time as well as the soldiers of Germaine who had hidden themselves in cover stared at the girl with a stunned face.

It was a frightening ability. Among the three soldiers that attacked her, two wore chain mail and one was in leather armor reinforced with metal. However, the young girl's axe cut and tore through both their armour and their abdomen. Wielding this axe was a girl who was only 13, 14 years old.

Olga, as if unmindful of the surrounding people who were currently in consternation, was still observing the state of the men. The soldiers of Germaine shuddered as the enemy who just appeared and was definitely not an ordinary one. Some turned their eyes to the adjutant for further instructions.

Olga was waiting for their reaction. Although it seemed as though she just wanted to step over the bodies, she suddenly rushed fiercely towards the adjutant. The adjutant got anxious and shouted.

"B-Bring her down."

Receiving that order, two men attacked Olga. However, one of them was pierced through the neck with an arrow that Tigre shot and fell to the ground. Even the remaining one had his arm cut off from below his elbow with a flourish of Olga's axe, and fell down on the spot while shrieking.

Realizing that he could not escape, the adjutant lowered his posture, intending to fight. Maybe it is because the weapon which he had in his hand is a spear. In terms of reach, it held an absolute advantage over the axe.

The adjutant thrust out his spear. With only one slash, Olga blew away the dark gray tip of the spear that was approaching her.

The actions of the girl with pinked colored hair hadn't ended yet. She ran beside the edge of the spear which was nothing more than just a stick in a single breath, and shortened the distance. The adjutant's head flew in the sky, leaving a trail of blood.

Olga, without taking notice of the body, thrust her axe at the man who ran over in order to support the adjutant.

"Throw away your weapon."

The man realized instantly that he would lose his life if he didn't listen to her instructions. Fearing the girl who was only about half his age from the bottom of his heart, he discarded his weapon, crossed his hands behind his head and surrendered.

The other soldiers discarded their weapons, suddenly cried out in fear, then turned their backs and escaped. As the adjutant had died, there was no one left who was able to command them now.

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Tigre immediately released the soldiers that Olga caught, and then he gave them a short order.

"Go back and help me relay this information, that people of a foreign land wants to see Prince Germaine."

Afterwards, Tigre sat down at the doorway of the village facing the highway. It was towards that direction that the soldiers of Germaine escaped. If they waited here, their comrades will show up sooner or later.

Soon after, Olga and Matvey, who was holding on to the horses, walked over to him.

As Tigre turned to look at the two, though somewhat tinged with gloom, he asked with a mild expression.

"How is the state of the village?"

"Since one of the village headmen came over to that house, we explained the circumstances while having a look at the inside."

Though the village was poor, in order to prevent foxes or wild boars from entering, it was surrounded by a tall wooden fence. While tying the horses there, Matvey explained in a hearty voice.

"Were you able to tie up all the people of that house?"

"Yes. In a few moments the village headman will be coming here, and they would appreciate an explanation from Lord Tigrevurmud once again. Also, it seems like they will help out with the burial of the hooligans."

"You have really saved us, thank you very much."

When Tigre bowed, Matvey smiled bitterly and waved his hand.

"Don't mind it. If I were to still be able to heartlessly ignore what was happening even after seeing that scene then, I won't have the face to see my lord anymore. One more thing, Lord Tigrevurmud. I would like you to quit using the polite way of talking. It will also be easier for you, won't it?"

"...Alright, since you have said as much."

When he seemed to be at loss and scratched his head, Tigre changed his expression and turned towards Olga.

"I must also give you my gratitude. Thank you. Honestly, you really saved me there."

Without this girl's involvement, though it could not be said that he would be defeated, there was no doubt that he would be force to put on a tough fight. However, Olga shook her head to say that such a thing was just a trifle matter.

"Leaving that aside, I want you to explain. Why did you tie up the people of that house?"

Tigre stared steadily at her involuntarily. Though she was still expressionless, he felt an intense will within her quiet voice. This might be Olga's true nature.

After thinking a little, Tigre used an attitude which considered the other party as equal instead of talking as though he were talking to a child, and said.

"While receiving such treatment, the people of this village didn't resist. From what I have seen of the soldiers' attitude and the village's reaction, I concluded that such a thing hasn't happened only once or twice. Perhaps, they may have also destroyed another village as a warning to the others."

The expressionless Olga had a shadow cross over her face. Tigre continued in a serious tone.

"It is the policy of the village not to defy the soldiers. If they dare to oppose them, it will rouse the anger of those guys and they will retaliate. Not only that, it will implicate the other villagers. Much more so if it were to be caused by the people in position like the village mayor and the village headmen, which will undoubtedly cause even bigger problems to occur. However... if I tied them up so that we weren't be disturbed, it would become a possible excuse to the village."

Tigre remembered the words of the woman who clung to him. They must live tomorrow and also the day after tomorrow in this village.

Olga looked down and muttered, as if very dissatisfied.

"Isn't there the option of escaping and abandoning this village? To a place without bandits and tyranny..."

"Have you ever plowed a field?"

Giving a soft smile, Tigre kindly asked her. After blinking several times, Olga shook her head. Looking away, Tigre gazed at the distant field.

"It's very hard, you know. Although I've grasped a hoe only once. At first, you need remove pebbles, weeds and chips of wood from the land as much as possible. It's seriously tough manual labour. Next, you need to dig up the soil, and you need to dig it really deeply, therefore it is also very hard work."

The fields of his hometown came into Tigre's mind. That time, he was enjoying the scenery which he just saw along with his late father.

"While using the hoe, if it hits the stones mixed among the soil, if the edge either bends or breaks, then you must repair it. In case there isn't a blacksmith and only wooden hoes can be used, it will take a great amount of both time and effort."

"... Isn't there a way of making a cow or a horse pull a plow?"

"Not every house can afford to keep cattle and horses. They are very expensive."

To Tigre's answer, Olga fell into silence without a word. Matvey opened his mouth to brighten up the atmosphere that had sunk heavily.

"Well then, Lord Tigrevurmud, what do we do from now on?"

"I will wait for the subordinates of Prince Germaine here. If they are fast, they will even reach here by tomorrow. Though it was somewhat off track, it can still considered to be going according as planned."

"Did you come to this country to meet with Prince Germaine?"

Olga black eyes were tinged with the touch of an unexpected look.

"Yeah, and so our travel together will end here."

He did not think they would part in this manner. But Tigre believed that this child would certainly have no problems by herself. Whether it was her equestrian skills, or her aptitude at hunting, as well as her excellent combat skills, Olga's capability should not be underestimated.

However, the girl with light pink hair spoke some unexpected words that Tigre never anticipated.

"Tigre. If it's alright with you, would you let me accompany you as your attendant?"

"...... The reason?"

In order to ask this, Tigre had to use the time taken for a few breaths.

"I want to personally meet the man called Germaine. - Can't I?"

He just thought that she would finally give a clear-cut answer, but he did not expect her expression to change into one that had a child-like weak expression. Tigre folded his arms and muttered. He did not think that Olga was unaware of how dangerous it was to see Germaine now. He really could not understand her thoughts.

"Who are you exactly?"

After some wavering, Tigre asked bluntly.

"Until now, we have not asked each other's identity. As we planned to say goodbye with you here, we decided not to ask about it any more. However, since you are coming with us, it is another matter entirely. Please just tell me who you are."

Olga momentarily turned her gaze, and shook her head, seemingly having an internal struggle within her mind. Subsequently, she looked straight into Tigre's eyes.

"You may not believe me..."

Of her dignified expression, and in a calm tone filled with strong will and conviction, the young girl that was traveling with them that the two were familiar with seemed to have become a completely different person.

"I am one of the seven Vanadis of Zchted. Holding on to the {{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}} named Muma, and also bestowed with the land of Brest and the {{furigana|Curse of Reversal|Houju no Genbu}}--- That is me, the {{furigana|Moon Princess of the Roaring Demon|Bardiche}}, Olga Tamm."

Tigre and Matvey stared wide-eyed and were at a loss for words.

Standing before the two people now was not the girl without sociability who was also absentminded in some ways. She was a one-man army who had been accepted by a {{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}}. She was a Vanadis whom one couldn't help but have his hairs stand on end if they looked closely at her.

<noinclude>
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| Back to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_06_Chapter_2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_06_Chapter_4|Chapter 4]]
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</noinclude>

Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa:Volume 2 Chapter 2

2014-08-15T04:08:12Z

John5dragons: /* Chapter 2 - Cooperative tactic!? */

==Chapter 2 - Cooperative tactic!?==

Recently I feel like I’m losing my dignity as a man.

Speaking frankly, I’m being made fun of.

And that’s because.

The pretty freeloader ghoul girl that came suddenly ― Zonmi R. McKenzie.

The devil-like little sister that lurks inside the Kusumi home ― Kusumi Manami.

Currently trapped in the pace of these two, my life of being dominated goes by without issue.

Hey, hey.

What a situation I, whose catchphrase is “To hell with sissy main characters” and does not want also to be known as a “bossy husband in the flesh”, have ended in…

It’s an urgent matter that must not be left unresolved.

… Nevertheless.

A ghoul and my blood-related sister. That pair of selfish-to-the-core pretty girls that are constantly letting out sighs of ‘Something must be done about this personality…!’ are impossible to be kept in check.

In the end, I ― today like always I can’t help but being controlled.

“Chiharu. Are they going to celebrate a festivity soon in this town?”

Morning. While waiting for the bus in front of the station.

While standing to my right, the one who asked me that was Zonmi the ghoul.

Straight long silver hair reminiscent of white snow, slender limbs.

Her features without flaw, her dignified gaze gives her a cold aura ― a beautiful girl with the atmosphere of a cool beauty.

“Aah. You mean the Saegusa festival. It’s a big festival that encompasses the Tanabata Festival, a summer festival and a fireworks rally.”

The preparation being made in Saegusa city as the day approaches have greatly changed the town scenery.

Though there’s still time until Tanabata, the hastiest shops have already started to place the stalls.

“I see. It’s a festival overflowing with greed. By the way, Chiharu, are you planning on going with someone to it?”

“Nope. No one in special at this moment…”

“Is that so? That’s surprising.”

“… Izzat so?”

Could it be that inside Zonmi’s head I give an impression of having many friends?

Though that said, it’s not very wrong.

Zonmi, pondering about something for a moment,

“By the way, Chiharu, are you currently seeing someone?”

That’s quite the sudden question she has made.

“In the least. that’s not possible…”

Simply look at my usual lifestyle and you’d understand!

Even if I’ve been truthful, for some reason Zonmi’s expression harbors suspicion.

“Chiharu… It’s not good to lie to me. Wouldn’t it be better for you to tell me the truth?”

“I’m not lying…”

Isn’t that because I couldn’t get a girlfriend for 16 years?

“I see. I’ve got a gist of the situation.”

“Hoo, so you’ve finally understood?”

“Yes. There’s no ‘person’ you’re going out with, because it’s a ‘monster’ who you are going out with. Isn’t that what Chiharu means?”

“Wouldn’t it better be that I have neither a human girlfriend nor a monster girlfriend!?”

“… Muu.”

Even when I explained myself without delay, Zonmi seems like she’s still not convinced.

Why does Zonmi distrust me that much.

Or rather, that about a ‘monster girlfriend’ gives the impression of having a highly destructive potential…

“―Ah!”

I’ve just realized something.

“Could you be talking about the pendant?”

So it was that. I had totally forgotten that I’m wearing the pendant I found yesterday.

When I asked, Zonmi nodded with an embarrassed face,

“Yeah. No matter what, it doesn’t seem to suit Chiharu…”

“… Perhaps a little.”

I’m not someone who wears many accessories, for starters.

“Could it be something you received from a past lover?”

“Hardly, since as I’ve kept telling you, I’m a male virgin who’s been 16 years without a girlfriend.”

Don’t make me say it. It’s embarrassing.

“…”

“…”

“……”

“…… Wha?”

Even though I’ve said the truth, it seems as if the air around us instantly froze.

It seems that “male virgin” is a taboo expression to Zonmi.

“So it’s like that. It seems that I became oversuspicious. Of course someone that speaks with no delicacy… Won’t be able to get a lover. No doubt I must excuse myself.”

Zonmi looks like she despises me.

“… No problem.”

Looks like I’ve cleared her doubts, but… What the heck. This is surely very complex…

“Haah…”

I let out a deep sigh.

No matter what, I didn’t think this pendant would raise so much suspicion.

Do I look like an outsider to fashion?

Since it appeared out of nowhere inside my room and it surprisingly fit me nicely, I tried wearing it, but… Truth to be told, I didn’t think it would cause such a fuss.

Have I to conceal it under my shirt<ref>I don’t know whether what Japanese call Y-Shaatsu is a WHITE shirt or a short-sleeved shirt; I only know that the term does not exist on the main English-speaking countries. - In English speaking nations, what the Japanese call a Y-Shirt is called a button up shirt, or dress shirt. And English speaking countries have no clue why the Japanese call them Y-Shirts.</ref> so to prevent someone else from seeing it, getting suspicious and causing a riot?

“Getting back on track. So, you are not going to participate this year?”

“Nope. I had planned on going, at least…”

Maybe I’ll go together with my classmate Youhei… I believe that, him being him, it seems that he won’t let the chance escape.

“I have been asked by Manami, like a demon, day after day, but… Going to a festival with my little sister at our age is of course embarrassing… I think I better pass."

“I see. I think it’s a commendable judiciousness.”

“If you’re interested, would you like that us two went together?”

“… Wha?”

As it seemed that Zonmi became momentarily speechless and had her mouth agape, soon after she became panicked with her face pure red ―

“Whawhawha, what the heck do you plan by saying that!? Maybe, what you mean with those words… Do you have the intention to be on a date with me!?”

“… No. Nothing so flashy.”

My intentions.

“Wasn’t only recently that Zonmi came to Saegusa city? You’re still not familiar with this area.”

Needless to say, my aim is that if I have someone that I planned to go with, it will be easier to fend off my sister’s approaches.

“… Th-thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.”

Totally in disarray, Zonmi took a deep breath in.

“Sadly, I must decline. Because basking under the summer sun while taking a stroll in the middle of a crowd… Is life-threatening to a ghoul…”

“Ah―”

That’s right, didn’t she tell me before? That each year in summer 100,000 ghouls were sent to hospital?

If it’s like that, then there’s no way around it.

And recently it’s been abnormally hot.

To the human-hating + weak to heat Zonmi, an event like a festival could be like hell.

“Then… Though I can’t attend to the summer festival, what if we go somewhere indoors―”

“KyeeeeeEEEEEEEEE―――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――!!”

“!?”

The moment Zonmi started talking, a shriek like that of an uprooted mandragora was heard.

Glancing on the direction of the voice ― a pretty girl came out of a trash bin placed on the street.

Big and round eyes like those of a small chick.

Nicely developed big breasts.

Her black hair, pride of Japan, was arranged as a ponytail at the back of her head.

Kusumi Manami. The one that has suddenly come out of a trash bin is my little sister.

“What the heck is that, oniichan!? I demand an explanation! How come I don’t get what you mean at all!?”

“Calm down, Manami. Isn’t it you the one who has to give a explanation!? That thing you are doing… Is it a human jack-in-the-box!?”

However.

As if it was only natural, Manami turned a deaf ear.

Instead, she criticized her brother’s humor sense by letting out “Uwah. Don’t make that comparison” in a small voice.

"Why, while you turn down my approaches, are you making an appointment with the zombie? That’s totally weird!”

“…”

I do it in order to have a good pretext to turn down your approaches… That’s something I won't say even if you rip my mouth open.

How come. This situation… How can I get over it?

It seems like Manami is in the right this time.

If my invitations were turned down and I saw the other party asking out a total stranger… Even if I’m not Manami, it wouldn’t sit right with me.

There’s no option… I’ll use ‘that’.

The last resource when in trouble. It tends to work.

As it makes use of Manami’s feelings, though I don’t like it, I have no other way.

Brushing away my forelocks, I struck a somewhat exaggerated cool pose.

“Listen, Manami. This is totally for your sake…”

“Eh…”

Manami let out a little sigh with a befuddled face.

“… Wait a bit, what?”

Yosh. Hook, line and sink.

My little sister’s expression turned in a flash into that of a lovestruck maiden.

“I’m your brother, right? Since you are more important to me than anyone else… Ain’t I telling you to harden your heart? Next year, you’re also gonna be a high school student. Won’t it be troubling to you if you cannot let go of your brother by then? I beg you, Manami. Make your brother feel relieved and make a single friend before then.”

“…”

It’s really something I can’t endure. Due to Manami’s bad habit of having a much-too-strong sex drive, she had no one she could call a friend in elementary and middle school.

That’s why my words ― are my sincere true feelings.

Though it’ll be good that Manami learns to not cling to her brother for a bit…

“Understood… If that’s what oniichan says… Manami… Will try. From now on I’ll make a friend to go together with to the festival.”

“That’s it… Did you understand?...”

Shit. I got some tears in eyes.

As I expected, if you make Manami listen properly, she’s quite the sensible child…

“In turn, if Manami does as oniichan said and can make a friend to go with to the festival… There’s something I want as a reward. Will you promise me?”

“… Promise?”

“Not now ― once it happens, oniichan. Let’s go together to the festival.”

“Eh.”

What the heck does she mean by that.

After going to the festival with a friend, double booking by going together to the festival with me?

I mean… Isn’t that completely going back to the start line!?

“Hey, Manami… By saying you will make a friend in order to let go of your brother, isn’t that putting the cart before the horse?“

“Pretty please! This is the last I will ask of you! I want my last memory of middle school, by all means, to be going together to a festival with my brother…”

“…”

Since it’s unusual that Manami asks for something so meekly, I ended up rejecting it on impulse.

Thinking about it… Isn’t this to some extent better than keeping being insistently asked to the festival?

I don’t want to say it, but the chances of my sister that has been a solo player all her life to successfully make a friend in the lapse of a few days… Are far slimmer than the chances of survival of an ocean sunfish’s<ref>Mola mola, a fish, wiki it.</ref> offspring.

“Understood. I’ll promise you that.”

After talking with a bit of a serious tone, Manami, with her feelings seemingly overflowing,

“I did iiit!! Oniichan, I love youuu!!”

<nowiki>*MUGYUUUUUUUUUUUUU*</nowiki>

Manami hugged me with all of her tender body.

Also, how much longer will you stay inside that trash bin?

Since the start, being hugged by my sister doesn’t make me very happy, but the stench like dead crayfish that comes from her hair adds up an extra layer.

If you’re going to be hugging, take out the rubbish from your hair.

“Chiharu, you adulterer.”

Zonmi badmouthed me, with a glare cold like a North Pole blizzard.

“…Ah.”

This is bad. Could it be that, this time, is Zonmi the one who has lost her temper?

Now that I say it, that’s right. I may have been insensible from my part to promptly make this kind of promise with my sister only minutes after having asked her out.

Being these two the women most near to me, unless you are very careful, the troubles won’t stop.

“Sorry. About this…”

“Jealous wench!”

By promptly making a follow-up, Manami didn’t let me continue.

“Shitty zombie! Read the mood! As you see, oniichan has chosen Manami♪ That’s why, get out♪”

“… Ku.”

Zonmi made a face as if she had bit a lemon,

“How many times do I have to say it to you so that you understand!? My name isn’t zombie. It’s Zonmi! I’m a descendant of the proud since ancient times ghoul clan, Zonmi R. McKenzie!”

She rebuked with her usual catchphrase.

It seems that Zonmi being a ghoul she can’t stomach being treated as a zombie.

“Haa… Still with that? I’m fed up with that sentence!”

“Hey. It’s a problem that you are fed up…”

“Straight to the point, zombie-san. Aren’t you excessively close to oniichan despite being a newcomer? Going together to school every morning, you surely feel important. Could it be~, despite not being going out you feel like you’re his girlfriend?”

“Wha-wha-wha-what are you saying!? If you say that, then you too!”

“With me, it’s fine! Since I’m oniichan’s little sister♪”

“… Is that reason enough? If it’s like that, than I’m Chiharu’s partner. ―So it’s only my natural duty to serve at his side.”

Saying that, Zonmi showed the silvery glittering contract ring.

Some days ago, I formally established an employer-employee relation using the ring.

For that reason, Zonmi and me are wearing matching rings.

Contrastively with Zonmi’s face of triumph, Manami’s factions got shrouded in darkness.

“Ring… Oniichan and the zombie are wearing matching rings…”

“…Ah!”

This is very bad.

A switch has totally been flipped.

“I won’t forgive you… Never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never, never!”

My sister’s brother complex has sincerely deplorably gone out of track.

That’s bad.

So bad that it’s on the level of making even monsters run away.

Even Zonmi has gone pale.

“Let’s go, Chiharu! It’s dangerous to stay here!”

“… Yup.”

Zonmi took my hand.

It seems we can’t afford to wait for the bus.

The instant we left the station as if we were in agreement, a tremendous killing intent was felt at our backs.

“Aaa, You’ve taken…”

“Eh…”

“You’ve taken―, You’ve taken the hand―――――!! You’ve taken oniichan’s hand――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――!!"

I carefully looked back.

There, Manami, with the face of a demon, had taken out of nowhere a couple of huge knifes with 40 cm. of blade length, and isn’t she shortening distances with us with ferocious speed!?

Man… I don’t know what’s what…

With this you can’t tell who’s the monster.

“Chiharu, raise your speed.”

“Y-Yeah!”

Zonmi was dashing while strongly pulling my hand.

―Zonmi is of course a monster, and seeing it like that makes me too quite the monster tamer.

Could it be due to producing magic power? As of recent, my physical ability has risen conspicuously, reaching a level that can’t be compared with a normal person.

That’s why ― I don’t have to worry about the chance in a million that my sister catches us―

That’s what I was thinking at the moment.

“Hya!”

As I thought I’d heard a little shriek, suddenly, Zonmi’s arm that was pulling on my hand ― was severed while fresh blood gushed out.

“Fufufu. At last, I caught you♪”

From behind… No, wrong. It was from the front.

Before we could have noticed ― there was my sister covered in the red of shed blood.

What an amazing feat, my sister not only defeated a monster tamer and his partner in speed, but managed to sever the right arm that Zonmi was using to pull my hand too.

Emm, where did she acquire such pointless combat ability?

Good grief, that’s bad for the heart.

Had Zonmi not been from the ghoul clan…. Wouldn’t that have been no laughing matter?

“Fufufu. Lass. How dare you cut my arm… Today for sure I won’t forgive you.”

“Bring it on♪ Everyone who gets close to onii-chan is an enemy♪ I’ll chop up your heart and body!”

“…”

Taking an {{Furigana|umbrella|weapon}} from nowhere, Zonmi faced my sister.

My sister being my sister, she faced Zonmi with the aforementioned huge kitchen knives while smiling ominously.<ref>If Manami isn't actually an Oni-Baba (Demonic Hag: Depraved. Loves kitchen knives and eating people. Highly territorial and jealous.) I will be very surprised.</ref>

Man… I don’t know what’s what anymore…

Ever since Zonmi became a freeloader in the Kusumi residence, every day has been like this.

Even if I’m so worried, can’t I even sigh!?

My spirits are almost as low as when I threw a tantrum because I stained my newly bought shirt with curry sauce.

Paying no attention to those two, I carefully got out of that place and went to school alone.

<center>× × ×</center>

“Then, have you heard, Chiharu?”

Lunch break.

My classmate from the seat next to mine, Sakurazaka Youhei, asked me with his cheeks stuffed with flavored bread.

This good friend of mine is a man of the currently styled ‘low fuel consumption hybrid’ kind, who likes 2D girls and loves 3D girls.

“It seems A-class has decided to do caramel apples.”

“Eeh. Is that so. Tanaka from C-class does frankfurts. And didn’t Yamazaki from D-class chose chocolate bananas?”

“Yep. Both of them have made low-lifeness reach a whole new level. It seems they are using the confusion to make girls eat rod-shaped foods, and like that fulfill their hidden intentions of seeing them make sexy poses.”

“…”

Regarding our talk till now, it’s about the stands that will be set up during Saegusa festival.

A stand even though we are in high school?

You may be wondering, but to set up a stall is something specially regarded as part of our school’s extra-curricular activities.

To tell the truth, the reason I decided to go with Youhei to the festival is the following.

“About your booth… It was yo-yo fishing, wasn’t it?”

“Yeah. Isn’t it the best? The guys around me won’t stop saying ‘Isn’t he too fired up!?’, being no match for me.”

“… As expected. Your idea is on a whole different line of those of the perverts from the other classes.”

“!!”

As soon as I remarked that, Youhei’s eyes got sharper.

“Ku, ku, ku. As I suspected. Chiharu… I supposed that, being you, you’d realize.”

“… You overestimate me. Anyone would notice if he used his imagination a bit.”

“Nope. Apart from you, no one has realized it.

That yo-yo fishing has become the best panty-seeing spot―!!”

“…”

As I see it, yo-yo fishing is the best panty-seeing spot owing to two facts.

First.

As we know, in the game known as yo-yo fishing, if you don’t lower your hips enough you can’t pick a yo-yo, but, on the other hand, girls strongly dislike to dirty their clothes by touching the ground with her butts.

For that reason, since while yo-yo fishing they can’t but keep their hips lowered on a halfway stance, that makes the perfect chance for panty-seeing.

Second.

The line of sight of the girls engrossed on yo-yo fishing, where is it aimed at… Of course, at the {{Furigana|prey|yo-yo}} before their eyes.

With this, no matter how wary the girl is, it’s difficult for them to realize their own defenseless stance.

By the way, due to the former, when you try to google ‘yo-yo fishing panty-seeing’, you get a truly astonishing number of search results.

Even if the monster affair has enlivened society… Even today, the world is at peace.

“Now that we are talking about it, Chiharu, do you have someone to go with to the Saegusa festival this year?”

“Still no luck…”

Since I was rejected by Zonmi this morning.

“So it’s like that. If you ask me with your all, I may let you man the booth for a bit.”

“What… the heck…!?”

If you are telling me that I will be able to see panties effortlessly… That’s too good to be true.

“In that case, I want you to promise me something.”

Youhei put on a very serious expression,

“Since you are with me, make it so neither Zonmi-san nor your sister go to the festival.”

“…? No problem.”

Though I find it very unexpected, Youhei’s suggestion is somewhat easy to achieve.

Truth to be told, Zonmi has already rejected me once, and I doubt Manami will be able to make a friend before the day of the festival.

“… May I ask the reason?”

“Chiharu… Me being still your best friend, I want us to be together!”

Hey, hey.

You seem to be saying that if I went to the festival with two girls you’ll stop being my friend.

“Understood. Though I don’t understand why, if it’s like that, I’ll prevent those two from going to the festival.”

“For real…! Are you serious, pal!”

I was surrounded by his arms and hugged.

Seeing it from outside, it gives a dangerous feeling, but even being hugged by Youhei, I think I kept my face from revolting.

Gu, fu, fu, fu, fu.

How long has it been since I looked forward to the day of the festival?

Saegusa festival? Now that I think about it, long ago, I often went with Kyouko, but lately the chances have remarkably diminished.

… Now that I think about it, has she planned to go with someone to the festival?

As I thought about that, once I reached my seat.

“Go-good morning! Haru!”

… Speak of the devil.

A clear soprano voice suddenly resounded inside the classroom.

Looking in the direction of the voice, there was my childhood friend.

The moment she set foot inside the classroom, my classmates spirits fired up like gunpowder.

“Uooooooooooooooooooo! It’s Kyouko-samaaaa!” “Our angel has come doooooooown!”

Even after Zonmi transferred, Kyouko’s popularity was as strong as ever.

No, I’d dare say it was even stronger than ever.

The source was the “Monthly Seiran<ref>Written as “sex revolution” instead of the “sacred orchid” on the name of the academy.</ref> underground magazine published each month by our school’s newspaper club.

According to the same issue, over these several weeks, haven’t some of the core members of the Kyouko Fan Club (KFC) taken the banner of revolution, established the Zonmi Fan Club (ZFC) and now both parties are in the middle of a bloody feud?

“… What a fuss are these humans making.”

Engrossed until a while ago by the karaage roll she had for lunch, Zonmi expressed blatantly her displeasure without listening to the current conversation.

“Eeerm. What’s the matter?”

When I tried to ask, feeling an ominous premonition on my back, Kyouko blushed,

“We-well. I made an obentou for Haru!”

She spat those surprising words.

Kyouko put before me a humongous three layered… No, four layered bento box, then she averted her gaze while bashfully entwining her fingers.

‘Heh. Humph. So it’s like that? Chiharu and the Nephilim, not minding that I’m the partner, have entered into an unusual relationship.’

‘I misjudged you! You rom-com bastard!’

I think I’ll hear those two’s words anytime now.

… No, rather I want to hear them.

I don’t know what feelings do they hide inside their chests, but those two secretly pierced me with their glances without a word. As I thought I heard the creaking of plastic being broken, next instant, the remains of a pair of chopsticks rolled over the desk.

If you have something to say, why don’t you say it!?

Chopsticks have no guilt!

“… Yeah, erm. Currently, Kyouko-sama is intermingling with Kusumi Chiharu. Urgent, I request permission for bloodshed.”

“Yeehaa! Serves you right, KFC! It’s obvious our angel is Zonmi-san!”

“…”

The dubious students from next class came dashing, being as noisy as they pleased.

Not that it matters, but KFC… Isn’t that fried chicken?

“What the heck… How come? Why did you make this bentou for me all of a sudden?”

“Eeerm. That’s, you see…”

A change in the surroundings, the air was filled with tension.

The classmates watched us intently as they drooled.

“I-it’s the same work doing one or two!”

“…”

I-it cameeee!

The king of responses that nowadays only happens in games!

Thanks for the treat. I’m full.

Thank you very much!

“What? Any problem? Since I made it for you, at least be thankful!”

“Ye-yeah…”

“Then, what are you going to do? Will you eat it or not?”

“I’ll eat it.”

“… Fuun. Y-you should have said that from the beginning!”

“…”

Aah. Of course I’d like to refuse.

Nevertheless, If I refuse Kyouko’s goodwill, she could not take it well. I’m scared of the retribution from the KFC members.

I don’t know if Kyouko’s plotting something, but it’ll be better to play along with her.

“Uwah!”

Next instant, Youhei’s shriek was heard.

No one present at the site when it happened could do nothing more than stare silently.

Speaking from the results, Yohei, who was until now seated next to me, has his head inside the garbage bin and is letting out anguished screams.

A catastrophe.

It’s a catastrophe.

“Yo-Youhei!?”

“This is bad! The infirmary! Someone take him to the infirmary!”

On the seat Youhei was occupying until a while ago, now is seated Kyouko, feigning innocence.

Dreadfully, probably Youhei’s appearance doesn’t reflect in her eyes.

Since she has used too casually her monster powers, no one present has noticed her wrongdoing.

… But that’s only natural.

It has been so fast that, despite having the dynamic vision of a monster tamer, I’ve barely noticed it…

“Come on. You can tell me if the bentou I made for you is to your liking!”

While trembling as if there was a poltergeist phenomenon going around, she opened the bentou box’s lid with unsteady hands.

If I have to talk about the contents ― they surely are of top-notch quality.

The fourth layer has white rice, while layers 1~3 seem to have been designed as side-dish areas.

Fried prawn. Hamburger steak. Karaage. French fries. Spaghetti. Pork cutlet. Curry pilaf. Yakiniku. Steak. Sweet and sour pork. Salad. Fried salmon. Mackerel with miso. Takoyaki… Etcetera, etcetera.

Like that, it was filled with multicolored side-dishes made to be well-received by men.

“Kyouko.”

“W-what?”

“Could it be… You want me to eat all of this?”

“Yeah. I tried to choose and make only what Haru liked, but…”

“…”

Sadly, it seems she has no ill will.

I don’t understand the exact reason, but since long ago her harsh efforts end all going on weird directions.

“Aah. Then. Bon appetite.”

I carefully reached out with my chopsticks to the hamburger steak.

“… How is it?”

“Yeah. The usual deliciousness.”

There’s no problem with the ingredient selection or their passing over the flames, and also there was no complaint about its quality.

I’d believe it if they said to me this had come from a restaurant.

“Izzat so? That’s good…”

Kyouko, letting out an exhalation of deep relief, gazed at me with a dazzling expectation,

Come, why don’t you try the next one? If you ask me, I’m confident on how the fried shrimp has come out…

She asked me as if it was only natural.

“…”

This flow of events… It gives me bad vibes.

I looked around looking for help, but each and every one of them conspicuously turned away their glances, so I couldn’t meet their eyes.

[[File:Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa 2 p071.png|thumb]]

It seems I deserve it, it can only be called divine punishment.

“… What’s the matter? Could it be it doesn’t suit your tastes… perhaps?”

I couldn’t get rid of my suddenly meek childhood friend, her eyes tinged with uneasiness.

Since it has come to this, even I… Better to steel my stomach…

Having made my decision, I, with tearful eyes, I gulped down the hamburger and white rice as if stuffing them into my throat.

<nowiki>*MUNCH MUNCH* *MUNCH MUNCH*</nowiki>

Resolutely, I kept chewing.

My stomach capacity has reached its limits long ago.

It’s as if I could end up throwing everything up anytime if I so much let some air out.

However, I can’t go and give up.

This Kyouko, what the heck… What was she thinking, making so much bentou?

I don’t know the circumstance, but she wouldn’t have prepared so much bentou for no ordinary reason.

That’s why, I’ll eat it. I’ll keep eating it.

… After a while I could see the end.

Another bite.

Another bite… Only this last piece of pineapple from the sweet-sour pork and finished!

“… Blergh!”

Nevertheless, reality is not so kind.

Having my stomach reached long ago the limits of its capacity, its contents were thrown up in an explosion of a paste resembling egg icecream.

“Danger! Kusumi has been defeated!!”

“To the infirmary! Even if it’s Kusumi, take him to the infirmary!”

What. I see a beautiful river.

Could this be… The Sanzu river<ref>River that represents the border between life and death according to Japanese Buddhism. Lit. “River of the Three Crossings”, if you were a very good person, you cross it through a jewelly bridge, if you had a balanced karma, through a shallow crossing, and if you were evil, through a deep part full of snakes.</ref>?

He… y…

The one who’s waving to me from the other side… Is it Youhei?

I see. You also fell in a very flashy manner.

Youhei… I follow your steps.

“Good grief. How can you be this soft-hearted, Master…?”

While I was losing consciousness, I thought I heard Zonmi’s voice.

<center>× × ×</center>

As soon as Kyouko reached her apartment, she buried her face in her pillow and hanged her head.

“…The worst.”

If that’s not the worst, then what would you call the worst?

The nicely timed ‘handmade bentou tactic” had ended in utter failure.

For sure, it’s the fault of the size of the bentou, I got carried away and did too much, I think I have many things to reflect on.

Then, no wonder, it ended up making him faint…

All the same, I should have predicted it.

“Hah…”

I let out a deep sigh.

Like this, usurping the contract is but a pipe dream.

If I keep it like this, wont I be forced to make a contract with the partner that I don’t want?

With Chiharu ever after, is that a destiny denied to me?

Thinking like that, I felt my mood steadily going down.

“I’m going to support you! Kyouko-oneechan.”

From somewhere, the voice of a girl could be heard.

“Who!?”

That’s weird. When I got out, if I’m not wrong, I locked the door.

Right now, no one should be inside this room other than me.

No one should…?

Next instant, *BAM!*, the wardrobe’s door was opened with force.

Following that, a familiar human came out rolling like a pill bug.

Kusumi Manami. The one who has suddenly come out from inside my home’s wardrobe was Chiharu’s little sister.

“…”

Unintentionally, I held my head in my hands.<ref>Don’t know exactly how to express it. Something similar to a double palmface.</ref>

I don’t know what Chiharu thinks, but what’s inside the head of this little sister that’s rolling there was a mystery.

“… What are you doing? Manami-chan.”

Worried as I was, I could hardly squeeze out those harmless words.

“Don’t mind it, oneechan!”

“Don’t mind!? Isn’t that a full-fledged crime? Don’t you have something to say about that!?”

“Fufu. That’s that. Now, compared with oneechan’s problems, that’s trifling. Am I wrong?”

[[File:Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa 2 p077.png|thumb]]

--Wha…

Since it was spot-on, Kyouko was unconsciously taken aback,

“Eeeerm. What do you mean by supporting me?”

I asked with a somewhat forced smile.

“Cheering on your love, of course♪ Kyouko-oneechan, don’t you love oniichan?”

“… What?”

“However. Oneechan’s recently abused template of tsundere childhood friend, is it a successful approach against oniichan? Is not, right?”

“… R-rather, about liking Haru, I don…”

“Aaa. Yeah, yeah. It’s fine to go with that character.”

“…”

“You like him, don’t you?”

“…”

It’s not possible to keep a secret from her, so it seems.

“… Yes. I like him. I love him.”

Just when I voiced that, I noticed my face heating up.

(What’s with… This situation!?)

Why am I confessing my loving someone to that someone’s little sister?

Why was she inside my room’s wardrobe?

As the questions kept popping up, feeling that she’d lose if she thought deeply about it, Kyouko gave up thinking.

“Yep, yep. Let’s go straight to the point♪”

“…?”

“That love, I’ll help you fulfill it!”

“Eh,”

“From today onwards, Manami will be love’s Cupid for you two! I’ll teach Kyouko-oneechan about love!”

“Eeeeeeehhhhh!?”

I didn’t understand the reason.

Isn’t it somewhat sad that I have to learn about love from a girl younger than me?

“Don’t worry. Since if you leave it to me, everything will be OK! Feel at ease, Kyouko-oneechan!!”

“Hah…”

I could only sigh. Since I can’t reply, it seems I’ve given my consent.

That’s weird.

Manami is a well-known bro-con. I don’t know what reason she’d have to help me with my love.

“Ufufu. Now I can make Kyouko onee-chan get in the way of that ghoul’s romance…!”

“You’ve let out your true thoughts!?”

I don’t understand a bit of what’s happening, but I can say a single thing.

That is, it seems that it’s my fate to be completely manipulated by these pair of siblings.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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</noinclude>

Hyouketsu Kyoukai no Eden:Volume 5 Prologue

2014-08-10T05:00:02Z

John5dragons: /* Prologue – Just the Two in the Slowly Darkening Tower */

==Prologue – Just the Two in the Slowly Darkening Tower==

A red world.

The brown of the earth was outdone by the even stronger red of dusk.

The then and long shadows of a grove of trees stretched endlessly. The ground was fanned up by the wind and the small pebbles underfoot rolled around with a dull clacking noise.

That was, that kind of image of a wasteland───

.

The boy wordlessly held his twin swords.

“……”

His ragged breathing slowly returned to normal.

He had reddish brown messy hair and eyes which gave an affable impression. His age was thirteen or fourteen. As fitting of a teenage boy, his limbs gave off a somewhat slender feeling as he breathed out.

Upon the black formal wear draped upon him, there were little cuts all over the place. Beneath the formal wear, his T-shirt was also torn and something red was flowing from the bare skin peeking out from there.

Feeling fatigue and his wounds, even then his vision was focused straight ahead───

On his opponent who confronted him with a pearl grey metallic lance readied.

“──────”

His opponent maintained a position with the spear larger than her own height held over her head, not moving a muscle.

Breathing or blinking, not even a slight twitching of the body.

One minute passed……two minutes……three minutes passed and there was still no movement.

Perfect stillness. There was not a single breath, blink or twitch.

“──────”

The golden hair of the girl who had her spear readied fluttered in the wind.

Her clothes were black just like the boy’s. But hers was a single thin shirt that exposed up to her shoulders. Her age was about sixteen or seventeen, some years above that of the pre-teen boy. Her slender body was about a fist taller than the boy’s as well.

The girl with the blue eyes stared fixedly at the boy without moving.

The boy facing her also wasn’t moving.

An instant.

A small pebble in the space between the two rolled away after being struck by a sudden gust.

The two separated from silence at the same time in an instant.

With vigor that raised gusts at his feet, the boy swung his twin swords. The spear-wielding girl received that and put power into both hands───

.

“I quit〰”

The girl lowered her spear and relaxed her body.

The boy who saw that ceased his movement reflexively.

“…………Eh?”

His mouth hung open in a childish expression that suited his age.

“……You’re……quitting?”

“Today, Sheltis-kun doesn’t have enough vigor so it’s bo〰ring.”

“……Uh, ……umm.”

The girl who swung her spear with just a flick of the wrist announced that without even turning around. On the other hand, the boy who was the recipient ─── Sheltis meekly bowed his head.

“Sorry……”

“Did you have a fight with Leon-kun or something?”

“Ah, th-that’s wrong. I always fight with Leon.”

“Then what iiis it?”

“……Err……well……a childhood friend got mad at me, Ymy’s her name……”

“You idiot. That’s the un-Guard-like point about you.”

The phrase spoken by the girl who only turned halfway.

Raising the corners of her mouth while looking down ─── it was a very, very challenging smile.

“There’s too much of an inconsistency in your strength and emotions, you know?”

“That’s the same for you, Ishtar. Doing that kind of feigned innocence.”

Even though he replied with a pout, her challenging smile only deepened.

“Ishtar is di──fferent”

“How so?”

He didn’t think a reply would come. The reason for that was that countless people had asked her the same thing and it had ended with just a smile.

But just this time was different.

“The summit I’m aiming for is different.”

“……?”

Sheltis blinked in surprise when she suddenly muttered that sentence.

“Say, Sheltis-kun, do you want to be a Sennenshi?”

He couldn’t immediately answer in response to her sudden question.

“Do you want to be a Sennenshi?”

“Wh-what are you───”

“I’m asking if you want to be a Sennenshi.”

“……I will become one.”

Not want to, will.

That was the boy’s resolve.
[[image:Eden05_013.jpg|thumb]]

“Fuun, then what if you do your best? I’ll be stopping here anyway.”

The girl once again turned her back.

She left behind a slight, truly slight smile.

“I’m fine with being an {{furigana|Elite Guard|right now}}. I have no interest in being a Sennenshi.” <ref>[T/N: "Elite Guard" has "right now" (いま/今) over it as the furigana.]</ref>

“……Why?”

The boy stood still with a dumbfounded expression.

Within the tower called {{furigana|Tenketsu Palace|Sophia}}, the Sennenshi who were known as the Priestesses’ partners. If it were her ─── if it were Ishtar, then she was undoubtedly capable of reaching that honored position.

Even so, she was discarding that opportunity and honor herself?

“It’s fine if you become a Sennenshi. That or Leon-kun……either way isn’t bad.”

“Ishtar, what are you planning?”

He narrowed his eyes and gazed at her.

……I don’t understand why.

It had been that way ever since they’d met; he had absolutely no idea what she was thinking. He had no idea how much of what she said was serious and he still didn’t know exactly how strong she was as a spear user.

No, rather than that, those frivolous words just now───

“Plotting? What a way you’re putting it──”

Maybe she laughed since her shoulders shook a little.

“I said so, didn’t I, that the summits we’re aiming for are different. They’re completely different.”

“The summits are different……”

“I’ve already obtained it. The Elite Guard position is enough.”

Elite Guard ─── those whose abilities stood out even within the tower and, at the same time, those from whom the Priestesses would choose their Sennenshi. She had advanced that far but was forsaking the crucial Sennenshi position.

“Then, bye-bye──! See you next time!”

She left with a lovely wink.

Sheltis tried posing a question just once more to that slender back.

“Ishtar……what is your goal?”

There was no answer.

The girl ignored the question like she’d felt a gentle breeze ─── the moment he thought that. For only an instant, her footsteps stopped.

.

“'''Well then, boy, will you ask forcefully?'''”

.

───Crish.

When he noticed it, Sheltis had already taken one step back.

“Oh my, what’s wro──ng?”

Her smiling face half-turned towards him.

Facing that head-on, he openly grimaced.

“……I don’t like you; you feign innocence and then suddenly show your true colors.”

“What are you talking about? Ishtar has no ide──a.”

Swinging her arms in an adorable manner, this time she left.

“……Fight and win if you want to know, huh.”

Staring at her back, Sheltis softly whispered.

“I got it. I’ll do my best next time.”

.

But the promised second battle didn’t come to pass.

After a month. The boy fell from the {{furigana|floating continent|Orbie Clar}} to the far below Garden of {{furigana|Corrupted Song|Eden}}.

And Ishtar───

<noinclude>

==Translator's Notes and References==
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{{SimpleNav}}
</noinclude>

Hyouketsu Kyoukai no Eden:Volume 4 Final Chapter

2014-08-10T04:19:25Z

John5dragons: /* Part 2 */

==Final Chapter: The Fourth Person==

===Part 1===

“Instructor? It’s me, ……yes, the circumstances are as I communicated earlier.”

The sea of trees returned to silence.

Only the examiner girl’s tense voice echoed.

“I’d also like to request the location of Nash G. Endolfin’s emblem’s signal. ───Ward 7, section 3……ward 7?……independent action, as I thought. Yes, we will proceed to rescue efforts at once.”

I’sa who lifted her hidden face shook her head.

“It seems my bad feeling was right on.”

Her self-derisive smile that turned to them.

“You remember that the Yuugenshu discovery report was from ward 8, section 68? I gave orders to return to the cottage in that same ward 8 and go on standby. The signal from Nash’s emblem is coming from ward 7.”

Rather than the cottage, contact with Nash’s unit was lost in ward 7. What could be inferred from that───

“……That moron. He went after the Yuugenshu himself.”

Vaiel spat out with a loathsome look.

“Leave the blame for later. For now, we pray that the unit is safe and only think about rescuing them even a moment sooner.”

Leaving behind words with a trailing note, I’sa waved her formal clothes.

“I’ll be temporarily assuming command. Follow me.”

.

===Part 2===

The sea of trees was dyed in the singular color of scarlet.

Upon the animal trail shrouded in an eerie silence, the puppeteer girl’s figure ran along as if flying. The solid and pointy bedrock and marsh were ignored by sprinting through the large trees, leaping from branch to branch.

It was a form of movement that rendered the complicated landscape inconsequential as well as circumvented wild beasts. It was a simple spring, but the amount of continuous running needed to cover the harsh territory like this in one hour was truly as expected of a Regular Guard.

───How about this side?

Monica and Vaiel were lined up chasing I’sa who was at the front, with Kagura lagging slightly behind.

It wasn’t by file but simply the order of speed and physical strength. Vaiel had physical strength from his outstanding physique amongst men but the unit captain Monica was also keeping up well.

……It looks like she’s having trouble, but Kagura is also doing her best.

The last of the five people, Sheltis surveyed the backs of the members ahead of him.

───If it’s like this, we can perform the rescue faster than I thought.

“I wonder if we’ll make it.”

“''That’s what we’re here for, right?''“

Ilis’ reply that could even be called a challenge was correct.

Rescuing the lives of those attacked by Yuugenshu was a race against time. If it formal wear that had carved shinryoku seals applied, then there was more or less a resistance against even a Yuugenshu’s mateki. At any rate, if they arrived before it developed into a serious incident, there was the possibility that Monica’s purification spells would be enough to heal them.

Because they understood this, Kagura was trying her hardest to keep up and Vaiel, wearing his signature displeased expression, didn’t seem like he was going to voice any complaints.

Finally.

“…………”

I’sa who was at the front wordlessly held her hand parellel to the horizon. Lower your speed ─── reading that sign, Monica and Vaiel, followed by Kagura, halted.

The destination was close. At a crawling pace, they silenced their footfalls and pushed through the tree branches. What awaited them after they circled a gigantic tree was───

.

Four Cadet Guards were lying face-down on the ground.

.

“Monica, come with me! Sheltis, Kagura and Vaiel, keep watch on the surroundings!”

I’sa ran towards Nash while quickly sending orders out.

Holding up the black-haired young man, I’sa immediately pressed her finger against the artery in his neck ─── after a little while, she breathed out a long sigh with an expression of slight relief.

“It looks like the three over here are also breathing……I’m glad.”

Monica sighed, having confirmed the other three’s breathing in the same manner. But having been an apprentice Priestess, she soon tightened up her expression and bit on her lip.

“Examiner I’sa, I shall take over the rescue of Nash.”

She softly laid down the three people being held up. Monica, with a severe expression, stared at the dark purple mist coming off Nash’s formal wear.

───The corruption of mateki.

Yeah, said I’sa with her eyes slightly widened.

“I heard from Instructor Yumelda that you used to be an apprentice Priestess.”

“……I wasn’t very good at the baptism-type spells right to the end though.”

With a shadow falling within her eyes, Monica smiled wryly.

.

[Sia Sec elis arc......Is io miel]

[That day's dream, once more......for the sake of that.]

.

The girl’s aria that wasn’t enough to be a short tune.

Her sakura-colored hair was, by a very deep red ─── it became shrouded in particles that shone with a crimson light. The light gathered to form a line which expanded and blew away the dark purple of the mateki.

The mateki eating into Nash’s formal wear was purified, then the ground underneath, and then it spread to wash away even the mateki that had infected the large tree to the rear.

“……The corruption of mateki has been repressed for the time being. How’s that side?”

“Not doing so well.”

Myun-fa ─── Kagura scowled as she held up the female shinryoku practitioner. The hand stopping the blood flowing from her shoulder and back wounds was soaked red with the bleeding.

“There’s no corruption of mateki but her injuries are more severe. ……She may have taken a surprise attack from behind so there’s a really deep wound on her back which might have pierced an artery. The other three also seem to be in the same state.”

───A surprise attack from behind.

Remembering their unease with that single phrase from Kagura, the other members turned around.

“Then it’s decided. There’s no use loitering here.”

Shouldering one of the Cadet Guards, Vaiel stood up.

“Come on, let’s start heading back. The Yuugenshu that attacked these guys might be hiding close by.”

“They’re not. There are traces of fleeing.”

Staring him head-on, I’sa didn’t quiver at all. The scars on the ground that were giving up smoke formed a direct line away from the large tree they were standing at.

“Hey, hey, don’t tell me you intend to pursue it……you sane?”

“In just a little under an hour, it’ll be night.”

I’sa didn’t turn around. In the sea of trees that were dyed crimson, the sun that was setting towards the horizon shimmered in the gap between the tree leaves overhead.

“The Yuugenshu at night are dangerous. The dark purple mist that covers their body blends into the night and they’re practically invisible……even if we return to the cottage, it’ll be dangerous if we receive a surprise attack.”

Then they should pursue now and strike.

I’sa’s words were filled with a force that wouldn’t accept any dissent.

“We’ll be dividing the unit into two groups, the pursuit squad and the rescue squad. Firstly, for the rescue squad that will stay here and look after Nash’s unit……Kagura and Vaiel, can I leave it to you?”

“Understood.”

“Ah? Me?……it’s a lot easier than fighting Yuugenshu so it’s just what I wanted.”

Kagura nodded and Vaiel didn’t seem to have any objections.

“Then it’s settled. Monica who can use shinryoku to resist mateki, ……and that dual swords user over there.”

Not his name but dual swords user. The puppeteer girl presumed to call him that.

“I’m asking just in case but do you have any experience fighting Yuugenshu?”

“I won’t be any trouble.”

He drew out the hilts of the dual swords from the holder on his belt.

“I see. Then come along; don’t betray my expectations, okay?”

After I’sa who rustled her formal wear, Sheltis ran through the sea of trees wordlessly.

Seeing off the three who were following the Yuugenshu’s escape tracks───

“It’s just the two of us.”

“Ahh?”

Vaiel turned around with a sour look and Kagura smiled wryly at his unchanging aggressive tone.

Just the two of them. She had wanted to ask for a long, long time and had searched for a time and place to no avail. She hadn’t thought the chance would come with this timing.

“……Could I ask one thing?”

“What’s this, don’t get all strangely formal.”

She chose to remain wordless in the face of that displeased tone.

“──────”

She silently took off her machine helmet. Deep green hair and ash grey eyes. The girl’s face was young and transient. The signature pointed ears of the Nell folk were exposed.

“…………”

For an instant, for just an instant, his expression had certainly changed. She felt that.

“Have I met you before?”

Do you remember me? About me who had collapsed while crossing the desert in the middle of training……and how you piggybacked me all the way to the medical office.

“It’s already been two years.”

“No idea.”

Turning his face to the side, his response was quick.

“……Is that so.”

I knew. I should have known but……as I had expected, he has forgotten me. When I invited him to the unit and trying to drag him in by even proposing a threatening deal, I had hoped that perhaps it would cause him to remember.

“How pointless. Don’t expect too much of people.”

Within the sea of trees dominated by silence, his click of the tongue echoed dully.

“……Is it bad to have expectations?”

“Think about that yourself. It’s because you don’t understand that that you’re a brat.”

.

===Part 3===

The land corrupted by mateki gave off smoke as it decayed. That smoke became a path, showing where the Yuugenshu had escaped to.

“Monica, this is about Yuugenshu.”

He ran alongside Monica who leaped over a rock that was sticking out of the ground. Sheltis informed her while confirming her facial expression from the side.

“Keep careful watch on your surroundings while fighting. There might not be just one Yuugenshu.”

“……What did you say?”

Her grey eyes narrowed like a crescent moon.

“But there are only tracks for one Yuugenshu?”

“I know. But '''that area was very unnatural'''.”

Monica had been focused on Nash’s recovery and I’sa was checking out the Yuugenshu’s pursuit trail. Kagura and Vaiel had been focusing their attention on keeping vigilance of the surroundings.

On the other hand, he had been concerned with the blade marks and bullet traces gouged in the large trees and ground.

“Did you realize? The surrounding trees and ground where Nash’s unit collapsed had indiscriminate blade marks and bullet holes. If the opponent was a single Yuugenshu, they wouldn’t leave such large traces behind.”

The swords that had failed to strike the target and bullets that had missed the mark were too numerous.

“It was too unnaturally scattered. As far as I know, those kinds of battle traces are only left during times of a Yuugenshu’s mental control with mateki.”

Mental destruction ─── by breaking down reason, it would drive people to one form of rampage. It was like having an ally turn into an enemy. It was the most troublesome thing outside of immediate death.

“Those under mental control will rage without distinction of their enemies and allies so it’s easy for there to be blade marks and bullet traces like that.”

“You’re saying Nash’s group was subjected to that?”

“───No.”

Keeping his vision on I’sa to the front and staying vigilant of the sides and behind, he shook his head.

“The only one who received mateki this time was Nash. Then the one who was under mental control should also be Nash. Thinking along that line, I looked at the tools of the other three but amongst those three’s wounds, there were none inflicted by Nash’s weapon. If he had fallen into a panic after being mentally controlled, it wouldn’t be strange for at least one of them to have a wound from Nash’s weapon.”

There were none. That is to say, he hadn’t been mentally controlled.

“Then what are you saying?”

“I don’t know either. But we need to be prepared. ……I’sa.”

“───You meddler. If you talk in such a loud voice, I’ll hear it whether I want to or not.”

The Regular Guard who lightly jumped from branch to branch turned towards him.

“That’s for the best.”

“Hmph, I had no intention of letting my guard down from the beginning. Rather than that ─── we’re close.”

Letting out a small breath, I’sa came to an emergency halt.

“……I’ll praise you for not running or hiding.”

A fearless smile rose up on her face.

About ten metres ahead in the gap between two especially large evergreen trees.

Just like a king sitting in his throne, the Yuugenshu glared at them boldly. It was as large as a lion. Within its body formed of dark purple mist, its crimson eyes shined fierily.

─── [Deploy • Emission] ───

In the direction I’sa indicated, the super heavy steel ball drew in on the Yuugenshu. It was a “puppet” granted her shinryoku so if it directly hit, it would crush the Yuugenshu’s crystal.

But.

The steel ball passed through the Yuugenshu and simply formed a depression in the ground on the other side.

“Ehh……!?”

I’sa and Monica let out voices of shock at the same time.

.

■ ■ …… ■, ■ ■ ■ …… ■, ■ …… ■, ■ ■ ■, ■ ■ …… ■ ■, …… ■ …… ■ ■

Oe/ Dia = U elfa clar, deus mille phes thes, deus mille hypn noa thes.

.

Little by little, the Yuugenshu’s body began to tremble. The mist shrouding that body let off an eerie light and gradually spread to the surroundings. ───No, it was expanding.

“The Yuugenshu’s mist is increasing……it’s getting larger!?”

“That wrong. This is”

Staring at the strange beast from the front, Sheltis muttered softly.

The dark purple mist shimmered like a heat haze and formed an image like a mirage. Another mist was born from within the mist, forming another body.

“It’s '''multiplication'''.”

Seven monsters’ crimson eyes shined. No,

“I’sa, there’s another one to the rear!”

Crish. The sound of the Yuugenshu’s claw ripping something to shreds echoed vividly.

“……Don’t underestimate me, you monster!”

Bearing a wound on her back, I’sa manipulated her puppets. Two shining steel balls closed in from directly to the side and crushed the Yuugenshu that had just injured her into little pieces from the left and right.

The annihilated Yuugenshu became a dark purple mist. ───There was no effect on the remaining seven.

“Illusions that also have physical properties……you sure can do it.”

The puppeteer girl stood up while grimacing from the wound on her back. Rather than being from the wound on her back, it was more an expression of irritation that a single attack from her puppet didn’t work.

“''It is a Yuugenshu that I have little data on as well. Be careful.''“

“───It doesn’t change what we do.”

The twin blades reverse-gripped in his hands let off light in the forest that was dyed deep red. The mysterious purple of the blades was formed by having mateki permeate the azure Hyouketsu crystals, resulting in a wondrous color.

Bathed in Monica’s shinryoku, her {{furigana|crossed rods|Rosario}} were wrapped in a silvery white layer of crystal.

I’sa steel balls once again flew high.

.

Then the three people and eight beasts collided head-on.

.

“───Haa!”

Ahead of anyone, Sheltis took aim at and ran towards the eight Yuugenshu.

Two from the flanks and two from the center, a total of four of them were approaching him. From within the dark purple mist, eerie limbs and claws extended───

From the front, directly to the side, underneath, above, behind; many claws were aimed and launched at every blind spot. He dodged, parried and blocked every one of them.

Djidii. He dodged the Yuugenshu’s claw that grazed his bangs by jumping.

A sword flash.

Not letting the opportunity to strike slip, the dual swords mowed down the surrounding two Yuugenshu.

“───Two down.”

“''Not yet.''“

Not even allowing time to breath, {{furigana|machine crystal|Ilis}} shone.

───Shinggg!

In the next instant, Sheltis stopped three Yuugenshu coming from the sides with his sword. At a separate location, I’sa was engaging two of them and Monica was taking on two at the same time……seven? There were nine Yuugenshu if he counted the two he’d just defeated. They had increased from before.

“''At the same time Sheltis defeated them, two new illusions appeared. If you put together the main body with the illusions, it seems the max is eight bodies but I think the illusions can spawn indefinitely.''” <ref>[T/N: That is to say that Sheltis thought there were nine without actually counting. He just added the ones he defeated in, but those re-spawned already. In case that was confusing.]</ref>

“No way but to defeat the main body, huh.”

……Zuu……zuzuu……zuzuzu……

Decaying the ground and flowers, the misty beasts pushed on towards him at a crawling pace. Two of them were circling around to his sides and the two that had just formed jumped into the air.

───Which one is real?

The four bodies were just like reflections in a mirror. Moreover, the movements of the four were different from each other so it was troublesome. It would be easy to single one out if it was the only one taking separate action but there was no other way but crushing them one by one if all of them were irregular.

However, it was pointless to destroy an illusion because it would just come back.

“……There’s no end to this.”

“It means there’s no point in beating the small fry.”

Monica yelled from the rocks at the far back and I’sa yelled while leaping up to a large tree’s branch. It seemed the two of them had also realized it. He could sense nervousness and impatience that wasn’t there before.

“Monica, I’sa, ignore the illusions and go for the real one!”

Shouting to the two, he leaped backwards. Kicking off a large tree’s trunk, he lept towards another large tree then kicked off that, staying afloat. In the blink of an eye, he had ascended to a height of roughly ten metres.

A bird’s-eye view.

He looked down on them from a location where he could see all eight Yuugenshu.

“……As I thought.”

He confirmed it once again after comparing the eight bodies. No matter how much their units were unmatched, the eight of them were attacking as if in competition.

───Strange.

If the real one was amongst the eight, then it would be over if they defeated that. If Sheltis was in the Yuugenshu’s position, then he would station the real body at the innermost of the formation in order to avoid the one in ten thousand chance that it would take a hit. But there was completely no semblance of that amongst these monsters.

It was almost as if they were saying it didn’t matter even if it the real one was taken out.

“Ilis, what’s the possibility that the real one isn’t amongst them?”

“''Zero. The real one is certainly amongst these eight.''“

{{furigana|Machine crystal|Ilis}} flat out denied it.

“My calculation area is certainly sensing the Yuugenshu’s mateki. I can’t confirm the exact location because of the illusions but the real one isn’t a separate body.”

“Then───”

……Zuu……zuzuu……zuzuzu……!

Two Yuugenshu were climbing their way up the large tree. There was no time to collect his thoughts. Feeling the quickly approaching killing intent, Sheltis jumped down to the ground.

“You’re in my way!”

Deflecting the awaiting two’s claws with his sword, he sprinted to open up distance with the Yuugenshu again.

───There are seven illusions. There’s one real body.

───But none of them are moving like the real body. As if they’re all the real body.

“That’s possible, huh.”

One. A completely outrageous hypothesis came to mind.

“Ilis, what if the Yuugenshu’s core crystal is transferring!?”

“''……That’s a bold hypothesis. All eight are real but the core crystal controlling them is just one.''“

The theory was just like I’sa’s “puppetry”.

Manipulating the illusions created from its own mateki. If it was a human, this would be settled by attacking the real one but the Yuugenshu were mist-form creatures to begin with. If they were destroyed without breaking the core crystal within, they would just dissolve in light. It might not affect the concept of the real body.

In other words, the box containing the core crystal was the real body and it didn’t matter which box that was.

“''If it looks like the core crystal is going to be destroyed, then that core crystal will transfer to another illusion. After that, that one will act as the real spawn and spawn illusions───''“

“What’s the probability?”

“''There’s enough value to be worth confirming. But it’s a hassle.''“

That’s right, if his conjecture was correct, then the only way to defeat this Yuugenshu would be before the core crystal transferred ─── all escape routes would have to be sealed.

In other words, the destruction of all eight bodies at the same time.

“……It won’t be easy.”

He naturally put power into his hands that gripped the dual swords. The range of his weapon was this at most this short. Three……no, he had the confidence to take out four at the same time. More than that was a bet. That’s why he abandoned the notion of protecting himself and went for a suicidal attack for six.

“───Kuu!”

Monica was being pressed into a defensive battle by two bodies.

Due to the blessing of the shinryoku silvery white crystals on her {{furigana|crossed rods|Rosario}}, her weapon held great offensive power against Yuugenshu. But the problem was her technical ability to handle that as a Guard. Even if she could handle apprentice Priestess’ spells, even Monica was still a Cadet Guard.

“There’s no end to this……”

Passing through the space between large trees, I’sa skillfully widened the gap with the Yuugenshu by flitting through the branches.

It was possible to control up to four steel balls at once with her puppetry, but the weakness was that their movements would become monotonous. In her previous two-man cell, that was the reason Sheltis could cleave the steel balls regardless of it being the first time he’d seen them. By the same token, the Yuugenshu were gradually getting used to the steel balls’ movements.

“……It’s no good.”

He gave up on the idea of taking out eight bodies with three people. Right now, the communication required to match up their timings would be difficult. The two who were in a defensive battle didn’t have that leeway.

……Think; isn’t this something you decided yourself.

……What I can do for the unit.

.

“''Those with the leeway to observe their surroundings during battle probably consists of only you. ……It’s a shameless thing to ask but I’d like you to decide the commands for everyone to respond well. I would like you to give orders.''“

.

The thing he had thought up with Kagura and resolved himself to.

He would support Monica, who was embracing her responsibility as unit leader, on the battlefield.

“Ilis, how many ways can you think of to dispatch the illusions?”

“''……Only one conventional method. As you know, a shinryoku barrier’s territory is confining.''“

Barrier spells, in other words, the widespread release of shinryoku. Like Hyouketsu Kyoukai ─── it could weaken the mateki of the Yuugenshu within.

“''However, Sheltis, '''for that, you'''───''“

{{furigana|Machine crystal|Ilis}} said something but held back.

“I won’t do that.”

Raising a laugh with traces of self-mockery, Sheltis directed his gaze at the other two.

There were numerous cuts carved into their formal wear. Being continually pushed by the Yuugenshu’s fierce offensive, these were the wounds from that harsh battle. Amongst those were some considerably deep lacerations.

Both of them were also tired.

I can’t let them push themselves. ……That’s why it’s best if I’m decisive.

.

“''You are not used to battles where you receive support.''“

“''But I would like you to adapt to it. We require your support and you will make the best of our support ─── that kind of battle style.''“

.

……Kagura also spoke trivially of it.

……But if that is my role.

“I’sa, Monica! Enclose the Yuugenshu in a barrier after forty seconds!”

Erasing his slight self-deprecating smile, Sheltis looked at his two comrades and shouted. The two girls and even the Yuugenshu paused for a moment at the sudden loud voice. Using that opening.

“Monica, how wide can you open a barrier spell!?”

“Eh, ah……? W-what do you───”

“Never mind that, just hurry!”

“I-if it’s a circular shape, up to a radius of twenty-two with a height of seven metres! I can reliably expand it to twenty metres with a height of nine metres!”

Monica yelled with a slightly red face. Beating only the approximation of twenty metres into his head, Sheltis continued to yell.

“First, Monica, erect a shinryoku barrier with me as the center. It’s enough if it’s twenty metres!”

And to the puppeteer girl.

“I’sa, deploy all four of your puppets at the same time! Set them up at the four corners of the barrier and obstruct the Yuugenshu that try to escape.”

“Wha!?”

The two shinryoku practitioner girls widened their eyes in tandem.

“Wh-what are you saying! Sending away all of my puppets……it’s the same as being naked to a puppeteer! It’d be the same as being defenseless!”

“The same for me. I’d have my hands full just erecting a large-scale barrier……”

Deploying a shinryoku barrier and even setting out a net to prevent escape. However, for the girls, focusing on only that was a thought close to being defenseless.

But he once again conveyed his idea with renewed conviction.

“I want to limit the Yuugenshu’s illusions. Within the shinryoku barrier, even those illusions can be obliterated and its movements restricted. That’s some only you two can do.” <ref>[T/N: "only you two can do" has "something I can't do" written beside it.]</ref>

“……Wait, we can’t defeat the Yuugenshu by just enclosing it in a barrier.”

Taking on I’sa’s piercing identification head-on, he slowly nodded.

“I’ll take over after that.”

The ones who would wipe out the illusions after restricting them in the barrier would be Monica and I’sa.

Sheltis would have a direct showdown with the Yuugenshu within that barrier.

“……Okay. It doesn’t look like there’s any other way.”

The first assent came from the direction of the girl who was allowing her sakura-colored hair to flutter.

“……Being ordered by a Cadet Guard……but it’s fine.”

Seeing Monica returning her {{furigana|crossed rods|Rosario}} to their holders, I’sa also once again let a smile rise onto her face.

“I’ll return the debt from Maha. I’ll owe you nothing with this.”

Then the three moved without a word.

─── [Deploy • Emission] ───

I’sa who deployed her puppets in four directions and Monica who was forming the spell jumped back. This was because they would otherwise be drawn into the battle that would be limited to within the barrier after its deployment.

Then───

.

[Sia Sec elis arc......Is io miel]

[That day's dream, once more......for the sake of that.]
[[image:Eden04_277.jpg|thumb]]

.

Within the sea of trees dyed crimson, an azure shinryoku barrier was soundlessly erected.

The glittering particles of light danced in the air.

The azure shinryoku barrier. The light fragments that resembled Hyouketsu Kyoukai’s crystals each had the power to oppose the Garden of {{furigana|Corrupted Song|Eden}}’s curse.

───Those two are already outside of the barrier.

Zaa……zaa……

Without hiding the sound of his footfalls, he prepared the swords in his hands and drew in.

“''────────────!''“

The mist beast howled in a strange voice. The seven illusions were negated by the shinryoku barrier and its body gave off sputters of black mist.

“……Are you taking damage from the shinryoku barrier?”

The beast did not answer.

But the strength within its eyes that had been there until now was gone and its movements were clearly lacking.

“……I see.”

Looking at that, Sheltis weakly shook his head.

.

“Me too.”

.

The dark purple smoke was also coming off the boy’s body.

That body which housed mateki from falling into the Garden of {{furigana|Corrupted Song|Eden}}. In exchange for nullifying the mateki of Yuugenshu, this body would take damage from the shinryoku that people were supposed to possess.

……I knew that I would take damage within a shinryoku barrier.

But he had had Monica and I’sa erect the barrier while prepared for that. That was his role. Without that resolution, he would not be able to be a member of the unit.

“Perhaps there’s not a single difference between you and me. ……I might not have the qualifications to speak on what people are. However”

On his back and neck and his entire body, every spot was inflicted with burn wounds. As if to show that, the boy drew near the beast step by step.

“……Even so, I wish to return to the place of those waiting for me.”

He raised the shining blades that were facing each other.

Then───

The boy’s dual swords shattered the Yuugenshu’s core crystal this time.

“…………”

From outside the barrier shining with azure light, Monica was staring fixedly at its interior.

……What’s going on right now?

With the barrier shining and the sea of trees and thickets added in, she completely couldn’t tell what was happening inside. She wondered if Sheltis who was left there was alright.

She knew his skills but his opponent was still a Yuugenshu.

Immediately after, the vague shadow of a person wavered from within the barrier.

“Sheltis!?”

She ran with her breathing in a mess to the boy who walked out of the barrier.

“! Those burns……were you bathed in mateki!?”

“Ah, no, I’m fine.”

The boy acted bashfully.

“These burns are……from yesterday’s dinner when I messed up the strength of the gas burner.”

She wondered if something like that happened during yesterday’s dinner. Putting that aside, his expression as he slightly averted his face seemed somehow very……lonesome.

───I don’t want to see Sheltis with that kind of expression.

The moment she thought that, her chest tightened painfully.

“Idiot.”

Monica placed her head against shoulder and closed her eyes. She didn’t want to see that bitter expression. If he was safe, then she wanted him to be lively.

“Don’t make……that face.”

“Eh?”

“……Don’t make the captain……worry so much, you scoundrel.”

Was it because she was relieved Sheltis was safe?

What was this. The heat within her chest was irrepressible. As long as she couldn’t put it into words, she entrusted herself to his shoulder───

“Unit captain Monica? Indiscrete relations within the unit is the largest demerit.”

Having I’sa whisper into her ear, Monica sharply returned to her senses.

“Y-you’re wrong! You’re wrong, examiner, th-this isn’t”

“Hr──m?”

Even if she was the examiner, she was just gazing over with a deeply meaningful look.

“Well, whatever, at present we’ve defeated the Yuugenshu. Next, we’ll go to Nash”

“''No, please wait.''“

The gem attached to a pendant at Sheltis’ chest ─── {{furigana|machine crystal|Ilis}} twinkled.

“''It’s strange. Even though we should have defeated the Yuugenshu, the mateki response hasn’t disappeared.''“

“……What did you say?”

“''I’m currently in the middle of observation but……this is……dangerous. It is approaching the two from our unit and those of the injured unit at a high speed.''“

He doubted his ears at {{furigana|machine crystal|Ilis}}’ words. That couldn’t be since Sheltis had defeated the real body and as proof, the illusions had disappeared.

“''There were two Yuugenshu from the beginning……we’ve been had; the Yuugenshu was possessed by another Yuugenshu. You could even call it parasitism.''“

───If that was so, then another part also became understandable.

Those seven illusions were not simply the result of the Yuugenshu’s battle-use mateki. It had been a disguise to hide that there were multiple mateki responses. ……But in that case.

“The Yuugenshu is heading towards Kagura and Vaiel!?”

.

===Part 4===

Without forewarning, that appeared before them.

.

“……Oi, this ain’t no joke.”

Feeling the pressure of that from up close, Vaiel felt shivers run through his whole body.

Yuugenshu.

Carrying the ability to decay whatever they touched, the invaders from the Garden of {{furigana|Corrupted Song|Eden}}.

“Don’t screw with me; I didn’t hear nothin’ about this! The examiner or the unit captain, what happened to those guys that were crazy worked up!? You telling me they all got done in!?”

“───No, I can’t imagine the group of three including Sheltis was done in.”

The one who answered was Kagura. But the lips that were peeking up from under her machine helmet were pale and that tone that seemed calm at first glance was shaking with fear everywhere.

“It probably ran away to here.”

“Isn’t that the same thing!……damn it, what do we do about this guy!”

It was the first time the {{furigana|iron fist protectors|Knuckle Dusters}} he wore on both arms felt so unhelpful. It was a fear of death that he hadn’t felt from any gathering of valiant men in the unit battles. That was just how “real” the beast before his eyes was.

A real Yuugenshu.

It was a strange existence that would be rare for a Cadet Guard to fight, let alone even encounter.

……On this side are me and this Kagura. And behind are the four injured members of a unit?

……Like hell there’s a way to win.

“Oi.”

Even while backing away quickly, he whispered to Kagura who was standing directly beside him.

“We’re grabbing those four and running; fighting with those absurd bastards isn’t sane.”

“''…………''”

The girl didn’t reply. It was like she didn’t even hear him.

“Oi, you listening? Oi!”

“It’s futile. Running away with these four by ourselves? While we do that blockheaded act, we’ll get wiped out in one shot by mateki.”

“Then what the heck are you saying we do!”

But the girl once again fell into silence and didn’t answer.

“Damn brat, are you only powerful in times of peace!? You───”

……Zuu……zuzuu……zuzuzu……!

Without the time to speak more, the Yuugenshu moved, leaving traces of decay along the ground. Their eerily shining crimson eyes were locked onto them without a doubt.

───This is bad.

The mist beast jumped at Vaiel whose reaction was slow, lunging at him as if leaning.

.

Light filled his vision.

.

Being hit from a very powerful light from the front, the Yuugenshu stiffened.

What made him realize that it was a flash bullet from Kagura was the resounding noise of a small machine having fallen after being tossed high into the air.

“…………“

Wrapped in wrath that seemed to freeze the atmosphere, the Yuugenshu turned around.

“I didn’t think my machine helmet’s eye shield would become useful in a place like this.”

Once again, the small clattering sound of something light hitting the ground.

The machine helmet the girl had removed was rolling around on the ground.

“Now, this way!”

And then she added a shot, she now took out the medium range-use stun gun and shot it after turning towards the Yuugenshu. There was no way it would work but if that single shot made the Yuugenshu feel like it “received an attack”, then that was enough.

“…………Oi, what are you”

His eyes not working because he’d been bathed in the flash grenade at close range, Vaiel was staggering.

……I don’t get the meaning of this.

……This brat, challenging Yuugenshu like this……does she have a death wish?

“Stop, you idiot! Playing around like that”

“I’ll be targeted? '''It would be troubling if that didn’t happen'''.“

“───!?”

For a moment, he truly doubted her sanity.

“I will lead the Yuugenshu away to the best of my ability. If I buy enough time, Monica and the others will make it in time.”

Replying indifferently like that, the girl rode atop the {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}}.

…………Oi, don’t tell me this brat.

…………In order to let me and the four behind me escape, she’s becoming……the bait……?

“Wait up, damn you! Such an arbitrary”

“The one who invited you to the unit was me. My responsibility……it is my duty to ensure that you are safe.”

The floating {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}} let off a noticeably brighter shine. Halting its functions as a computer, it was concentrating all its output on propulsion as an escape pod.

“……Kuu……wha……what arbitrary”

His eyes couldn’t see well because of the flash bullet so he could barely stand up. While he couldn’t do anything, and while he couldn’t stop her.

“───If I come back alive, let’s do our best in the unit again, okay?”

Even though he shouldn’t be able to see anything.

Her smiling visage was vividly burned into his vision.

.

And once again, the forest returned to silence.

.

There was nothing in his vision that had finally cleared up.

Not the Yuugenshu nor the figure of the girl who fled far away to lead that Yuugenshu.

“………………”

He wordlessly tightened his fists, then.

“Ddddoo……ooon’t screw with meeeee!”

Vaiel roared.

The Yuugenshu and Kagura actions, whichever one didn’t sit well with him. ……As he thought, it was just as he thought. Nobody and nothing understood. About everything, everything───

“A dream……you’re dreaming too much……what’s this about Monica coming to save you or Sheltis coming to save you.”

There weren’t just those convenient events.

A Guard is a Guard. They weren’t like those heroes that came up in stories that would come running to someone’s predicament.

“……You’re wrong…………that’s wrong.”

There was nobody like that in reality. There wasn’t so somebody, somebody there would have to defend them in place of a hero. Even a man with no redeeming features had times where he would have to rise up.

Wasn’t that so as a human and as a Guard?

For example, that day when '''he piggybacked a girl that had collapsed in the desert'''.

“''Have I met you before?''“

“''No idea.''“

At that time, Vaiel had acted as if he didn’t remember. He didn’t like gaining debts of gratitude or having words of repayment spoken.

“……Damn it, that brat……causing people nothing but trouble…………I’ll hit that joking face of yours and make you remember.”

He bit down on his trembling lips and gripped his quivering fist tightly.

His feet ───────── forward ───────── forward.

Forward.

“That’s why……until I come to hit you……………………don’t die.”

.

===Part 5===

“Kagura! Hey, Vaiel! Kuu……”

Yelling into the communication device, Monica’s face was unpleasantly strained.

───There was no response from the two.

“…………”

Looking at the side profile of Monica whose face was unpleasantly distorted, Sheltis wordlessly tightened his fists.

They had ran and ran and ran with all their strength through the sea of trees.

Even then, the anxiety within their bosoms would not be quelled. Disregarding people like Monica who had a special background, it was exceedingly difficult for a Cadet Guard to win against a Yuugenshu.

Then did they run? No, Nash’s injured were still there. He didn’t think they could escape a Yuugenshu while carrying them.

Other than somebody sticking himself or herself out and holding back the Yuugenshu, there was no way to save everyone.

But just who could do such a dangerous act?

Kagura? Or perhaps───

“''He would help someone when they were truly troubled. ……She came to think that.''“

“''Shel-nii, you know. Yuto was treated really gently by Vaa-nii!''“

“''There are two qualities in a Guard. There’s a need for at least one guy like that around.''“

Why.

Why am I remembering only these kinds of conversations now?

.

“''There’s nobody else who will do it other than me; that’s all it is.''“

.

……Vaiel.

A ruffian and a sloth. That kind of loathsome Cadet Guard. He had also thought that to begin with.

But that was wrong. Yuto, Kagura and the Instructor had told him.

……This might just be my wishful thinking.

……But Vaiel, please help Kagura.

.

===Part 6===

───Tosaa.

The sound of something touching the ground. What Kagura heard was the sound of her body hitting the ground.

“…………Ah.”

She could taste earth upon her lips. It probably got in when she fell face-down.

Even though she wanted to wipe away the dirt in her mouth, her hands and feet couldn’t move at all from the intense pain.

Her hands and feet that had been bathed in mateki ─── she was too scared to look to see what was happening to them. Even though she couldn’t feel anything with her fingertips, only the pain was resounding noisily like a roar. Whether it was necrosis or burns, their seriousness appeared to have a paralyzing effect.

……Zuu……zuzuu……zuzuzu……!

The sound of the Yuugenshu’s footsteps that creeped along the ground was growing closer. Even if she couldn’t see it while face-down, it should be arriving soon.

───As I expected, it was limited to several minutes at the highest output.

The {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}} that had expended its remaining energy fell to the ground and she’d tried to escape on her own feet, but without passing even ten metres, she’d been bathed in mateki and ended up in this state.

“……Ah……haha……ahaha.”

Even so, Kagura laughed.

With her entire body corrupted by mateki, her consciousness fading and the Yuugenshu soon to be upon that location.

───As I thought, I can’t be like Sheltis.

I’m a support-type that could only devote myself to the rear even in the unit battles. That is an existence that differs from the goals of a Guard that places themselves at the front to protect the Priestesses.

.

“''Don’t you ever think of harming my companions again!''“

.

For she who was like that, it was her first time meeting the real thing.

While looking at Sheltis who challenged “Golden” Maha who was blocking his way, her eyes were stolen away despite being a Guard just like him. She made her resolve in response to that ability and spirit.

Just once was fine. She admired that which was not a supporting role.

Just like he protected me, I want to protect somebody. That was why she had tried to protect Vaiel and the injured unit of four.

───I’d be laughed at if they knew the reason……was this kind of thing.

Zuu……zuzuu……zuzuzu……!

The sound of the monster’s footsteps which reached her ears arrived at her feet───

───It’s over.

The instant she closed her eyes in fear.

“!” <ref>[T/N: There were a bunch of small ッ there, but they don't even make a sound, so it became like this...]</ref>

That '''suddenly jumped far back'''. A violent sound. It was the sound of the {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}} sticking halfway into the ground.

───Somebody threw the {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}} at the Yuugenshu?

The {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}} also had a thin armor of shinryoku applied to it. The Yuugenshu had taken evasive measures because it loathed that……she understood that much. But who did it?

“……She……lti……?”

No, that dual sword user wouldn’t do something like this. To begin with, an acquaintance who brought to mind the savage image of throwing the {{furigana|machine pearl|Machina}}……that acquaintance……no way──────

A single person, just one, was there.

But……but…………that shouldn’t be……that man is……

“Don’t underestimate humans, you black fur ball.”

The Nell folk ─── Kagura’s ears which were much more perceptive than a human’s certainly heard that voice.

“……This……voice is……?”

With her body unable to move, she forced herself to the limit to bend her neck and what she saw there was───

Not the puppeteer Regular Guard that was traveling with them as the examiner,

nor the girl with the sakura-colored hair who carried the {{furigana|crossed rods|Rosario}},

nor the dual sword-wielding boy who had fallen to the Garden of {{furigana|Corrupsed Song|Eden}},

.

“The one who’s gonna hit and train that brat is me; a beast isn’t welcome.”

.

it was the young man with short golden hair and a sullen face.

“…………Va……ie……l?”

Why are you here…………why…………didn’t you run away, why, why did you come here alone? Why did you come alone without calling Sheltis or Monica───

“That’s why you’re a brat.”

That was what he said first.

“……Eh?”

“Stupid, how stupid! What’s this about Sheltis or Monica. Are either of them here? Did you really think they’d come to save you? What are you pointlessly trusting in; don’t over-expect things of people.”

Don’t expect things.

Again, once again those words. The words he had said not too long ago with the two of them.

“Why……are you that cold?”

She thought he had come to help her, but why was he saying these words that thrust her away?

“I’m not cold.”

“Then wh───”

“Don’t have expectations of people; the ones people have expectations of are Guards!”

All of the words that were at the tip of her lips were blown away by that one speech.

“To begin with, you’re pointlessly pretentious! What’s this “''It’s my responsibility''“……while acting like a good kid and saying “''Let’s do our best with everyone''“, when it comes down to it, you go on a suicide attack by yourself! Can you just not trust in your comrades, huh!”

“…………Y-you……”

She didn’t understand what he was getting angry at in front of her. Saying not to expect things of people, now he was getting angry about whether or not she could trust her comrades.

She just could not comprehend what he was trying to tell with him being like that.

“…………Damn it……you still don’t get it, you moron?”

He clicked his tongue loudly.

“Listen up, I’ll only say this once!”

In order to gloss over something ─── in order to hide his red face, he shouted.

.

“'''I’m here! You added me to your unit, so why can’t you depend on me, you damn brat!'''“

.

……That was to say.

That he really thought of himself as a member of our unit?

That he came running to save me?

“Bu……but……why”

Why so suddenly.

Because if he was that strong-willed, then he should have done so during the unit battles───

“For sure, you can’t call me outstanding as a Guard. Ever since I was scouted by the Instructor for some reason, it’s been a given that I’d skip training and I’d definitely avoid a battle with a Yuugenshu. …………But you know!”

He kicked off the ground.

Running away by myself while making somebody else, what’s more, a woman, the bait? That’s wrong, all wrong! There’s somebody collapsed in front of me. At times like that, even before being a Guard, '''there are things you just don’t compromise on as a person'''!”

Kagura remembered.

What he had said several days ago after the unit battles when he hadn’t protected her.

.

“''Hold on, Vaiel, why didn’t you protect me even though you were in the interceptor role?''“

“''Protecting someone in this kind of safe match guided by regulations can’t decide a man’s worth. A man will only get involved and protect a woman in a large battle of life and death. That’s my belief.''“

.

That’s right. He certainly said that.

Even though he said that, I didn’t believe in it.

……Even though I didn’t believe in it.

Even then, he came running. Just like he said.

“B-but……you can’t win……a Cadet Guard can’t”

“You’re noisy; who else is here? Is there a Regular Guard or Sennenshi here? Guards aren’t some kind of knight that appears when the princess is in a pinch. There’s no other way but for those there to stand their ground. That’s what you do as a Guard, as a person!”

“…………”

He was vulgar, lawless, boisterous, pointlessly loud and thought everything was a pain.

Even then, he came alone, running until his breath was ragged to save me.

He told me to trust in my comrades.

……It’s frustrating.

……In the end……rather than me, he’s definitely closer to Sheltis.

Tears welled up in her eyes and traveled along her cheeks but she didn’t understand the reason for them.

But my heart can tell. I……wasn’t wrong.

……As I thought, this person……is someone who can’t leave others alone when they’re truly in trouble.

“What are you crying for?”

“I’m not c-cc……crying……I’m not crying!”

“Jeez. Whatever. Anyway, the brat at an age with no sex appeal should just shut up and watch. I’ll shatter its front teeth!”

“……How stupid; do Yuugenshu even have front teeth?”

Unable to even hide the tears in her eyes, Kagura suddenly smiled.

“……How noisy. ……That’s why I hate kids.”

Vaiel spat that out. His sour face tensed up.

And then he ran.

“Ohh, ohhhhhhhhhhh!”

Roaring to wipe away fear, he brandished his fists. If the {{furigana|iron fist protectors|Knuckle Dusters}} which were shining azure from the shinryoku carved seal ceremony were to directly impact the Yuugenshu’s core crystal, it would be able to shatter it.

An instant.

In front of his raised right fist, the shine of mateki spread in a fan shape to protect the Yuugenshu.

The shinryoku-infused {{furigana|iron fist protectors|Knuckle Dusters}} and the defensive wall that shone with mateki clashed.

“Whaaaa!?”

Having his fist repelled head-on, Vaiel’s large body floated into the air. It was the repulsion from having the two directly opposite forces of shinryoku and mateki collide.

“Vaiel!”

“……I-it’s nothing; I told you to shut up and watch.”

While using abusive language, he shakily stood up. He’d been blown back through the air several metres and fallen on his back but it seems his body really was sturdy. However───

The Yuugenshu rushed in before Vaiel corrected his stance.

Jyuuu……when the mateki that decayed all it touched and the formal wear infused with shinryoku met, it scattered a large flash of light.

“Guu……that hurts!”

Confused by the Yuugenshu’s approach, Vaiel jumped away.

His right shoulder ─── the formal wear’s fibre had been decomposed leaving a large hole, and the surrounding area was dyed red. There was also a limit to the formal wear’s carved seals. The Yuugenshu had eaten away where the shinryoku armor had been destroyed by mateki.

“……You!”

Defending his wounded right arm, this time he threw his left out.

But the result was the same as before. Repelled by the Yuugenshu’s defensive wall, he was attacked before falling and a part of his formal wear was corrupted by mateki.

“……This……bastard.”

His left leg’s knee dyed with blood, Vaiel used his left hand as a support and stood up.

“That’s…………just perfect…………”

His leg injured, he moved at a speed closer to walking than running.

This time ─── the Yuugenshu didn’t really have a sense of caution. It just awaited the man approaching it and deployed the defensive wall to meet the swung fist.

.

That repeated itself many times.

.

Vaiel was blown away by the defensive wall and smacked into the ground. She didn’t know how many times it had been. And this time, he didn’t quiver as he laid face-up.

“……Vaiel? I-it can’t be. Vaiel, Vaie──────”

“You’re noi……sy; I can……hear you.”

The voice was hoarse as if spewing blood and if it wasn’t Kagura who came from the Nell tribe, one might have missed it.

“……Just shut up……and watch. Damn brat.”

With his entire body shaking a bit, he stood up. His bleeding right shoulder showed no signs of letting up and the bleeding on his left leg had dyed up to his shoes in the color of fresh blood.

Lastly, his face was pale from losing blood.

“……St……stop……it……”

“Ahh?”

“Stop already! Please, I’m fine, so run already!”

Kagura shouted in a hoarse voice. She told him that it was enough. She was really happy that his spirit had not been a lie and his feelings to protect her. But……that was enough. She didn’t want to see anymore.

“Please……you can’t die. ……I’m happy you became a comrade but that’s exactly why I don’t want my comrade……to die.”

However ─── he didn’t stop even then.

With tottering steps that a kid would laugh at and eyes that didn’t see anything other than their focus, he swung his fist.

“Vaiel!”

……Why, why are you being so stubborn?

Even though it’s fine if you choose to “run” instead of “fight” just once. Why won’t you choose it? Why are you so set on saving me?

“……Have your eyes gone bad?”

“Eh?”

He indicated the Yuugenshu’s defensive wall. But……she couldn’t see. Because of the tears welled up in her eyes, her vision had already been severely obscured from a long time ago.

“There’s a crack in his defensive wall.”

Supporting himself against the large tree beside him, Vaiel stood up. Even though his injuries were heavy enough that he shouldn’t be able to stand, there was strength in his voice.

“After one or two more……I’ll punch out that damn fur ball.”

“You’re lying……that’s a lie!”

“It’s not a lie, there’s really just a little left.”

“Isn’t that one shot painful!……With that beat-up body……you can’t even walk anymore, right? Your arms and legs……they have necrosis, don’t they!”

His burns were inflamed and his arms and legs were swelled to purple.

His formal wear’s shinryoku armor was already unstuck and falling off. That was the result of someone who went to punch a Yuugenshu without protection by shinryoku.

He shouldn’t be able to move; he shouldn’t be able to stand. Kagura’s body was currently decaying from being bathed in just one attack. Even now, she would immediately faint if she wasn’t gritting her teeth and fall into a state where she wouldn’t wake up.

“That why, please, ……please stop already. The one who invited you to the unit was me and the one who got you wrapped up in this exam was also me…………I’ll apologize for doing it at my convenience. Please, I don’t want to see you hurt…………for my sake anymore.”

It was at that time.

He who had been looking only at the Yuugenshu turned his gaze to her.

It was a perfectly clear gaze. It was his true face that he hadn’t shown her once until now.

“It’s not your fault; I was the first one to start this.”

“……Eh?”

“I carried a brat that had collapsed in the desert to the medical office. ……That’s why you invited me to the unit, right? Then the cause is me, not you.”

…………

…………No way……

He remembered me. That means he knew everything from the beginning and came along knowing that.

“…………Liar. You lied about not remembering me.”

“Like there’s any way I could forget a brat who made me do something so annoying.”

“……You’re the worst; even at a time like this, your mouth is foul.”

Not caring about her face getting dirty from the earth, Kagura pushed herself to wipe her tears away on the grass. All so she could watch over him from behind.

Vaiel advanced while dragging his feet.

With the hole-ridden formal wear that had lost its shinryoku armor, he dragged his necrosis-laden body that had received the mateki’s curse and advanced. He moved his legs that shouldn’t be able to move and tightened his fist that shouldn’t be able to close.

“────────────!”

The vigor that wouldn’t become a voice shook the sea of trees.

Tightening his necrotic right fist to the point of breaking, he held it above him and brought it down on the beast before him.

Shinryoku and mateki. The two overlapped head-on───

The {{furigana|iron fist protectors|Knuckle Dusters}} and the defensive wall let off a clear sound and shattered.

“''──────''“

The Yuugenshu immediately made to repair the destroyed defensive wall and its mateki gave of brilliance.

But somebody made a move before that.

“Yo, black fur ball, I’ve got one warning for you.”
[[image:Eden04_305.jpg|thumb]]

Vaiel, who had completely lost his {{furigana|iron fist protectors|Knuckle Dusters}}, clenched his right fist.

And then.

.

“'''Don’t underestimate humans when they’re serious'''?”

.

The young man who was just a human punched the Yuugenshu with that right fist.

Even though just touching the Yuugenshu’s body would curse him and his right fist became inflamed all at once, it didn’t stop. Passing the outer layer of mist, it reached the core crystal located at the center of the real body……and the sound of the Yuugenshu’s core shattering certainly echoed.

“What’s this……oi.”

While hearing the death throes of the Yuugenshu that was disintegrating in light.

“That was an easy win, Yuugenshu.”

An unusual smile appearing on his face, Vaiel collapsed right there.

Inside his fading consciousness.

“……I’ve been saved by you again.”

The cheeky voice of a girl resounded strangely vividly.

<noinclude>
==Translator's Notes and References==
<references/>
{{SimpleNav
|b=Chapter4|bn=Chapter 4
|f=Epilogue
}}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4

2014-07-04T19:02:47Z

John5dragons: /* Part 15 */

==Chapter 4 - The Battle at Willingham Mausoleum==
===Part 1===
Sometime during midnight… Ash slowly sat up.

“It hurtssss…”

Because, of the pain in his joints, he can’t seem to get a good nights sleep. It was because he played in the water earlier during the day.

Silvia and Eco were riding on Lancelot.

Jessica was riding on Rhiannon.

Without any warning… A normal fun time on the water had turned into a two sided battle field of ‘Fighting for Ash’. If they really wanted to play something, Ash hoped that it would be a more peaceful game.

But the swimming wear that both Eco and Silvia wore was deeply engraved in Ash’s mind.

Eco was wearing a white swimming suit which brings out her cute self. Even though her body is still far from perfect… There are still guys who are sure to fall for her innocent self. Although her true ruthless attitude will be exposed as soon as she opens her mou…

On the other hand… Silvia was wearing a sexy bikini. Ash was going to have a nose bleed just by thinking about it. For sure, it was not Silvia who chose a bikini exposing so much of her skin, but Cosette who the culprit was that forced it on her.

Ash quickly removes all this troubles from his mind and left his bed.

The bedroom in the training camp is a twin sharing bedroom. Max was sleeping soundly at the bed beside. Eco was not in the room. It is because the neat freak Max said that ‘sharing a room with a girl is illogical’ so Eco was now taken care by the other girls.

Logically speaking, since it was Cosette, there should not be a reason for him to worry… But Ash had been together with Eco for a long time. If Eco is not beside him he feels uneasy… As if a part of his heart is missing.

“Can’t… I really can’t sleep.”

Ash sighed and slowly stood up. Then he left the room and wanted to ask for a cup of water in the kitchen.

Ash was walking at fast pace along the corridor of the second floor. The old building felt like a haunted house. The kitchen was located on the first floor so he was headed towards the stairs.

The moonlight shines through the windows. Tonight is a full moon with a silver light.

“…Huh?”

Ash stopped beside a window.

He felt a shadow passed by.

“That is…”

Every single corner of the garden can be seen through the corridor’s windows. A girl can be seen walking under the moonlight. She was wearing a one-piece pajama. Ash recognized her.

“Is it… Lucca?”

Under the moonlight the golden white hair emits a mysterious light. Even her white ceramic-like skin was as if shining. Her pointy ears can be seen indistinctly poking out from her hair.

Lucca walked past the garden with her unsteady steps and through the old back door. Beyond the back door is deep and endless piece of forest. - Norg Forest.

In a blink of an eye… Lucca disappears into the forest.

“Hey… What is she thinking?”

Ash rushed down the stairs to the garden through the door specially used by the instructors. He rushed at a fast speed to the back door then following the stone slabs to the edge of the forest and stops. After he was mentally prepared… He walked to the forest.

But, just as he step into the Norg Forest, he immediately took a steps back.

“…Are you kidding me?”

Ash originally thought that he was used moving in the forest, but that is only limited to day time. This is the first time he was going to enter the forest at night! Even the wet ground had a different smell. The nocturnal animals and night bugs creeps the hell out of him. The lush branches of the trees had the sky covered which blocked whatever moonlight there was from piercing through. Also. There were noises that he suspected to be the sounds of an owl.

''Could it be that Lucca is just an imagination?'' Ash secretly hoped that this is true.

“Wait a minute…”

The Eckbalds were also known as the ‘Forest Yōsei’. Actually. The self ruling territory of the Eckbalds, within the Knight Country, is a wide forest called ‘Eckbald forest’. Maybe, to Lucca, every forest is like the garden back at her home.

After Ash mustered his courage… He moved forward while trying to feel his way along with his hands. The rough tree bark made him feel at ease, but every time he touches something slimy, he will immediately retract his hand. If there is a small animal, that passed by his feet, he will immediately jump.

“This is bad for my heart…”

Ash complained while walking and unconsciously thought about Gawain. All the other dragons were together in the dragon house of the training camp and only Gawain alone was resting in Norg Forest. It is because Norg Forest is a well known resting spot for dragons.

“I see. She went to look for Gawain…”

Ash, who realized the truth, continued to walk deeper into the forest.

After a while… His field of vision widens.

In front of him is an empty space. The moonlight shines directly from the sky. There is a pond in the empty space and the water was reflecting the silvery moonlight.

Gawain cuddled onto itself while lying beside the pond.

Its shining white fur was reflecting the moonlight.

Lucca was standing some distance away from Gawain. For a breeder, the amount of distance was weird.

Ash found out that Lucca’s shoulders were shaking.

“Please, Gawain, I… Can’t live without you.”

Lucca was calling after Gawain in a pitiful tone while Ash hid behind a tree and listened.

“The only Eckbald left in Ansarivan… Is only me. The people in our home town have placed high hopes on me.”

Gawain didn’t answer. It is still with its same old self.

“Why must you reject me? I had always treated you as family. When you became a maestro I was very happy. But why…?”

Suddenly. Some unexpected things happened.

“Grrrrrr…”

Gawain actually lifted its neck to scare Lucca. Lucca was afraid to move forward and fell to the ground on the spot.

Then she silently cried.

The sounds of the owls and the wings of the insects suddenly stopped… Most probably caused by Gawain’s growl. In the silent night the only sound, that could be heard, was Lucca's crying.

''-Crack!'' Ash stepped on a dried branch.

''Damn!''- The sound was tremendously clear in the middle of the night. He regretted it as soon he understood what had happened.

“…?”

Lucca, while wiping of her tears, turned back and looked at Ash’s direction. It seemed that there was no longer a point for him to be hiding. After Ash made up his mind… He walked out and towards Lucca.

“You are… From the student council?”

It seems that she didn’t remember Ash’s name. But since she also didn’t even remember Silvia’s name… This was expected.

Ash stated his name while smiling. “I’m Ash.”

“…Why are you here?”

“Sorry. I accidentally saw you running into the woods…”

After Ash explained. He looked at Gawain.

Gawain had frightened Lucca just now. That was a total rejection.

Lucca treated Gawain as her family which is undoubtedly the right thing to do… But Ash still didn’t understand why Gawain was not bothered by it. The image of Lucca sobbing remains in Ash's mind…

In a few moments, it had turned into determination.

Ash as if he wanted to protect Lucca stood in front of Gawain.

“Say, Lucca. The previous experiment… Can I have it continued right now?”

Lucca gasped.

“This… Has nothing to do with you.”

“No. Of course it has something to do with me.”

Ash took a step closer to Gawain.

“This fellow had made you cry. This reason alone should be enough for me to interfere.”

===Part 2===
Anya was looking, at Ash's sudden challenge with Gawain, from afar.

“That guy… What is he trying to do?”

Anya followed her plan, which was, working at the training campsite at Allonnes Lakeside presenting herself as a waitress at the student restaurant ‘La Tene’. The work to prepare the food was more troublesome than she thought. It was already midnight before her job was done.

On her way back to her room, for a rest from the kitchen, she accidentally spied Ash.

Anya was interested in Ash who had sneaked out and into the Norg Forest.

After all… The reason, why Anya worked hard to infiltrate ‘La Tene’, was to investigate Ash Blake. She thought that she had a better chance to come into contact with Ash in the restricted area of the training camp compared to the large area of the school grounds.

For Ash to run out into the middle of the forest was out of Anya’s expectation. He even challenged Gawain.

As for the matters concerning Gawain… Anya also heard something regarding it. It was said that it was resting in Norg forest because it wasn't feeling well.

Anya couldn’t figure out any reason to bring a sick maestro here. The rest of the staff in charge of the foods also didn’t receive any information regarding it. - There was probably no reason for the basic staff to know about it.

Ash was protecting a girl at his back. To her surprise… She was an Eckbald. ''Her name should be Lucca Saarinen…'' Anya secretly thought. She had memorized all the names of the student who attended the training camp before hand.

From their conversations that she could not hear clearly, it seems that Lucca’s and Gawain’s relationship right now was bad. So Ash wanted to help her to solve this problem- This should be the whole picture for the incident.

Ash is probably thinking about riding on Gawain just like how he defeated the Necromanica.

“What is this about… Trying to play the hero in front of a cute girl.”

Anya wonders why would she suddenly gets mad for.

===Part 3===
The sharp claws tore through the moonlight mercilessly.

Ash immediately jumped aside from the strong front paw. He will die in a horrible way if he faces it directly.

“Stop…!”

Lucca shouted at the top of her voice but Gawain had no intention of stopping.

After its front paw missed… Gawain’s weakness was exposed. Ash uses that opportunity to step on a tree branch to climb up a nearby tree. After he reached a suitably thick branch he followed it out and looked downward.

Gawain’s entire back was in his view.

“Uoooooo!”

Ash decided to jump down from the branch.

Gawain was not in his riding gear but this is just what Ash wanted. He had decided, that when riding on a dragon, the riding gear would only be in his way. Actually… Ash had heard before, in class, that ‘All the great riders hated the riding gear’.

“You are now under my control!”

Ash successfully landed on Gawain’s back. Like how a horse riding tribe will typically mount a horse without a saddle… Ash was now riding on Gawain’s naked back . His hands were holding tightly onto its neck. He swore not to let go of it even when Gawain tried to shake him off with its dragon strength.

“Grrrr…”

The thrash that Ash experienced nearly made him faint. He still kept telling himself never to let go.

Ash, with all his might, tried to tame Gawain and tried to persuade it to accept Lucca again.

But suddenly… Gawain gave an earth shattering roar.

“What’s happening…?”

Ash felt fear. But, unless Ash let loose from his grip, Gawain had no chance of winning. As long as Ash remains on its back… Gawain can’t use its breath attack, magic, teeth or claws.

If it is so, then what is the uneasiness he was felling.

Even when Ash had a complete advantage, of mounting it on the back, he felt an uneasiness deep inside as if–he–was the one whose back was exposed to a shinigami. <ref>God of death. Grim Reaper.</ref>

At that moment there was a wave of magic that felt like it exploded out from Gawain’s body.

“Uwaaa…!”

Ash was thrown into the air by an invincible wall.

His sight was spinning.

The bright moonlight came into his view for a moment.

Ash, who was still spinning in midair, had nowhere to escape. Gawain, like a whip, swatted its tail at Ash.

''“*Cough*…!”''

It was a direct hit on Ash.

An unimaginable strong impact swept from his chest passing on to his abdomen and sent him flying, parallel with the ground, until he hit a tree and only then did he slowly fall to the ground.

''“*Coug*…*Cough*…!”''

Ash coughed and then even coughed out blood. He probably had internal injuries. He was making some weird noises from his throat… Which was probably caused by a broken bone that punctured his lungs.

To make it worse… The blood from his head flowed in to his left eye blinding half of his view.

His body totally ignored his orders. Ash felt a cold chill. He didn’t know how serious his injuries were. The thing that frightened him the most was… He can’t even feel a single pain after such serious injuries. As if this body is not his.

''Will my life end like this…?'' Ash almost lost hope.

Eco's face suddenly emerged in his mind.

''An angry face. An angry face. An angry face… No matter what. It is always an angry face. Even so… I hope that she would smile to me more often. A pure cheerful smile.''

''-Stop! What am I thinking about? Isn’t this… No different from dying. How could Eco smile at me…''

With his back on the tree… Ash mustered all his remaining strength and glared at Gawain.

“Grrrr….”

Gawain was threatening Ash.

Ash had just realized there was a thin layer of magic on its body. That's the reason he was sent flying, it was a thin layer of magic.

“Reflecting type… Defense magic!”

This is a high level magic that could only be activated by a maestro.

The effect of this magic was not to neutralize an attack but to reflect it. Even though Ash was only clinging on to Gawain… But it probably interpreted Ash's presence as an ‘attack’. Could this have anything to do with his ability ‘to ride on any dragon’?

“Just what kind of rascal is it…”

Under those conditions Gawain could even use its defense magic to eliminate Ash. If it was any other dragon Ash's 'riding on their back' talent would have them tamed.

He already reached his limit.

Just before he loses consciousness… He felt that he heard Lucca calling after him.

===Part 4===
“This couldn’t be true…”

Anya watched the whole breath taking event. An empty handed human versus a dragon… That was clearly a stupid move but Anya still thinks that there is hope deep inside her heart. Since Ash is the famous ‘Silver Knight’.

But the result is clear in a blink of an eye.

“Just what kind of rascal is it…”

Ash who was hit by the dragon’s tail pitifully, even though he still remained conscious after he landed, after this words, he remained motionless.

Maybe he was dead. Ash, under the moonlight, could only be described as pitiful.

Not only that his head was bleeding nonstop, he even threw out blood. The seriousness of his internal injuries is even hard to determine.

Then, Lucca, made a sad voice.

“Nooooo!”

Lucca, who was pale in the face, rushed over to Ash. But she quickly panicked as Ash's injuries were pretty much lethal. She didn’t know what to do.

At this moment… Anya was thinking about two things.

''-If she left him as he is, he will die sooner or later. Serve him right for showing off and ruining Milgauss-sams’s plan. This is his divine punishment.''

''-But I still owe him. If I don’t save him… Won’t I lose my honor as a Tantalos? The fellow had saved me once without thinking about the'' ''consequences…''

“Damn!”

She was lost for just a moment. Ash's life could not be guaranteed if it was left in the hand of the unreliable girl.

If she is unlucky there will be questions about why would a staff member, in charge of food service, be in the Norg Forest. Well. That will be a problem in the future but she just needs to make an excuse to cover up.

Anya rushed out from the trees and pushed Lucca aside.

She discovered that Lucca, who was suffering from trauma herself, is trying to carry Ash’s upper body. Didn’t she know that simply moving the body, of an injured person, will put their life in danger?

“What are you doing?! I’ll take care of the emergency treatment. Go and look for help!”

“Y-Yes.”

Even though Lucca was still troubled… She still knew the seriousness of the current situation and there was not a single moment to be wasted. She turned around and ran as if she was trying to blend into the darkness of the forest.

===Part 5===
“…”

When he regained consciousness… He was in a strange place.

The floors had alternating black and white tiles laid out like a checkerboard. There were many semi-completed objects hanging randomly on the walls. Human bodies, beasts, armours, buildings and many more. On the ceiling was a grand palace-like Chandelier which was a bright-dragon-crystal light.

There was an antique bed in the middle of the room and Ash was resting there.

“I remember that…”

''I lost to Gawain and was seriously injured. Even though he still remembered the incident… There are only just fragments of memories. Even though he was seriously injured he still doesn't feel any pain or even a wound on his body. His uniform which was originally covered in blood had become clean. This was weird.''

“Are you awake?”

“Uwaa!”

After someone breathed in his ear Ash immediately sat up in fear. A girl right next to him, sitting beside the bed, was there without him even knowing.

“It has been some time since we saw each other face to face!”

The girl was beautiful. Her dress clearly highlighted her curves. Even though she had two horns on her head they were still not very noticeable. Her hair was like Eco’s shiny pink colored hair.

“Are you… Navi?”

Ash had met her about a week before Eco was born. No… ‘Met’ was not the right word to describe this situation… Because he saw Navi in his dreams.

The Navi in his dreams had explored his body all over. Just by thinking about it Ash blushed.

“Tee Hee…”

After Navi gave a devilish smile she leaned forward. Ash could smell something nice, but when he found out that he was on a bed, he started to feel uneasy.

“Wait!”

Ash averted his eyes from Navi’s huge breast and shouted.

“Navi, if you are here, then… I should be dreaming. Right? No. There is no other explanation. Because I who was seriously injured don’t even have a scratch on me right now!”

“You are not dreaming.”

“I-If I’m not dreaming… Then I’m in ‘that world’?"

Navi laughed because she probably thinks that Ash’s panicking looks funny.

“This is just the Dragon Workshop! The place where dragons made/make their creations. I’m the one responsible for summoning you here.”

“Even though I still don’t really understand the current situation… At least I’m alive… No?”

“As long as your true body is safe.”

“What do you mean?”

“The you now, here, is nothing but a spirit.”

“Is that true…”

Ash turned down his head to observe his own body.

“That’s right. Your spirit has now left your body. If your body in the material world stops functioning, then you have nowhere to go.”

“Y-You must be kidding! Let me return to my original state immediately!”

“Worry not. There is a reason for me to personally bring you here. This child has something that it wants to tell you.”

Just like agreeing with Navi-

“Kyuu.”

A small animal popped out from over her shoulder. After taking a closer look, even though it had the size of a rat, it's still a dragon.

“That dragon is?”

“This is Gawain. Although it's a maestro it has not yet matured mentally so it looks is like this while here.”

“T-This little guy is really Gawain…?”

Ash kept on examination the small animal in front of him. After being told by Navi… This dragon did indeed have some similarities with Gawain.

“Fufu… If we were to fight right now… Isn’t it a sure win for me?”

“Kyun!”

Gawain gave out a frightened voice and hid behind Navi.

“…Tsk. Pretending to be the nice guy. So. What do you want to tell me? Before that, let me say, I was nearly killed by you.”

After Ash asked… Gawain made a soft sound while coming out to stand on Navi’s shoulder. It seems that it was trying to ask Navi to become the translator.

After Gawain finished speaking, Navi looked at Ash.

“Gawain said that its master is Lucca and Lucca alone. The reason why it reject you was because it doesn’t want anyone apart from Lucca to ride on its back. Even when you were the ‘The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon’.”

“What are you talking about! You were obviously rejecting Lucca this whole time…”

“Kyuun!”

After Gawain made another angry sound it then explained its reason for rejecting Lucca to Navi.

“…I see. Navi said. Gawain was worried about Lucca and thus rejected her. According to Gawain… Lucca had fallen from its back about three months ago.”

“Huh…? I have never heard of this.”

Ash felt that he being was hit on the head. Three months ago was the time when Gawain started to reject Lucca.

“The Eckbald, as a dragon affiliated race, regard themselves highly and believe that falling from a dragon is a disgrace. That’s why Lucca had never told anyone about this.”

Although Ash doesn’t really know how Lucca is feeling if it's an Eckbald culture… Then he could only accept it.

“Then… Under what circumstances did she fall?”

“Have you ever heard of the Dragon Riding Dance that is passed down by the Eckbald leaders?”

“No. This is my first time hearing about it.”

“Just like what the words say… It is dancing on a dragon while riding. Although Lucca kept silent about this... She was destined to become the leader. So she must start practicing young. Not to mention, if the Dragon Riding Dance was a success, there will be an activation of various types of magic!”

“So you are saying that, in the middle of practicing the Dragon Riding Dance, she fell?"

“That’s right. Since she fell from Gawain she was traumatized. She stood far away from Gawain. Although she was lucky that she only had light injuries… She now lives under the shadow of those memories…”

“Traumatized? I can’t even see that happening.”

“I think that even she herself doesn’t know how much fear is hidden in her heart right now.”

Ash unintentionally said something important.

“Then… Lucca stayed quite far away from Gawain in the Norg forest. She doesn’t even try to pet it. Even at the seventh dragon house in the academy she also maintained her distance.”

''So the unnatural distance was caused by Lucca’s trauma…!''

“If she tried to ride a dragon, with those mixed feelings, she will one day face serious injuries. If a Dragner was afraid of his pal… His future will be at best terrible and at worst he will die. It's because Gawain is worried about Lucca… So it remained stern in not letting Lucca ride on it.”

“I see. So, Gawain, I can see that you are kind! But why was your Astral cut off?”

“After the magic of Wise Dragon Albion was activated the dragons were under special restrictions. One of them was; The more you go against a master’s orders the less astral you will receive. If this situation keeps on… Gawain will die soon. Even with the Norg Forest supplying some Astral… It is still hard to say whether it can survive for more than five more days.”

“-!”

Ash held his breath.

''Only a mere five days.'' Ash had never thought that the situation was this critical.

“Gawain… Would you rather sacrifice your life to protect Lucca?”

Ash spoke to Gawain seriously but it was with its haughty look

Ash who replied with a wry smile suddenly felt something was off.

“…Huh?”

Ash quickly looked at his own body. His skin became transparent and he felt an irresistible force pulling his body.

The truth is… Ash's legs were slowly lifting from the ground.

If this continues… Then he will be floating in a few moments.

“Hey, hey… what is…?"

“It seems that you are leaving.”

Navi calmly told the good news.

“Huh!”

Without knowing whether she was enjoying Ash’s changes in expressions, Navi smiled.

“Even though I said that you are leaving… It's different from what you are thinking. Your body is healing and thus summoning your spirit back. This is the law of nature.”

Ash was relieved after hearing Navi’s explanation.

“So… I’m safe?"

“That’s it.”

Navi stood up from beside the bed and walk towards Ash. There were some redness on her face. Were those illusions?

“I’ll be waiting for your growth –– ‘Knight of Avalon’.”

“Avalon? What does it mean?”

Navi gave a simple tap on his face as an answer. Although he was still at his spiritual state, he could still clearly feel the softness of a girl’s palm.

“Fufu. You must learn to ride on me as soon as possible!”

“But my pal is Eco…”

“Eco and I are two surfaces on a coin. If you ride on her, it also means, you are riding on me.”

“What does that mean-?”
[[Image:SnRK V03 181.jpg|thumb|Ash was no longer able to resist the strong force and was swallowed by the darkness.]]

Ash was not allowed to ask any further questions. It was because that Navi was kissing him passionately.

“Mguk...!”

Navi’s watery lips had warped up Ash’s lower lips. Before he could react… His upper lip was also sucked in by Navi. Both of their salivas flowed together. Just when their mouths were wet, Navi forces her tongue into Ash’s mouth.

“....Nn!”

Their slippery tongues were curled together.

...Until he was separated from Navi... Ash's thoughts was in a mess. After this intense experience… Ash only knew that there exists such a kiss.

Navi was with her, rarely seen, blushing looks and crimson red watery iris.

“I hoped that you can have such a kiss with Eco one day in the future.”

“Wh- What are you talking about!”

“Fufu. Let’s us meet on another day.”

At the same time, as Navi was speaking with her watery lips, Ash was no longer able to resist the strong force and was swallowed by the darkness.

===Part 6===
“I’m at…?”

Ash had also woken up in a strange room this time. The only thing is… This place doesn’t have the supernatural feel of the Dragon Workshop.

The smell of the antiseptic, white curtains and medicine on the shelves. From the semi-drawn back curtains Allonnes lakeside could be seen with thick white mist.

This should be the infirmary for the training camp.

Ash suddenly felt that he was touching something weird.

“... What’s this?”

Ash curiously moved his right hand that was under the blanket. It felt slippery and soft and there is a hint of heat from it. It obviously felt like a living thing.

“Eeeehhhhhh!”

Ash was shocked and jumped on the spot. Although his body hurts… This is not the time to worry about that.

The moment he flipped over the blanket… He saw something unbelievable. Even after he immediately covers it back up with the blanket… But the image he saw had been deeply carved into his mind.

“Why… Is Lucca here?”

Ash was sweating a huge amount of sweat.

That’s right, the thing, under the blanket was no other than Lucca.

And… She was naked.

Because she slept in such a way, like a baby cuddling up, that’s why at least her important parts weren't seen… But the stimulation to his heart was still intense.

At the same time… Ash also found out that his clothes were removed totally, although there were bandages on his chest, there isn’t a single piece of clothing left.

It is probably that the clothes will interfere with his treatment. So the reason why he was naked can still be explained. But… Why would Lucca was sleeping on the same bed as him naked?”

Ash looked all over the infirmary again. From the looks of the sky it should be in the morning right now. Not a sound could be heard from the lakeside.

Surrounding the bed were placed silver flasks that looked like lamp stands.

“This is…?”

There were water colored crystals on top of each of the flasks. Ash found out that they are those expensive Bright Dragon Crystals with healing effect.

It was said that the training given in the training camp was strict and thus the amount of injured students were high. These should be the medical supplies prepared by the academy.

“I see… Thanks to the healing magic. I can continue to live on.” Ash nodded after it dawned on him.

His chest suddenly hurts.

“It hurts!"

Even when they have used healing magic, it seems that, he won’t be able to fully recover in a short time. Ash unintentionally placed his hand on his head and found out that he also had bandages on his head too.

From his injuries, it is apparent, he will be treated as a patient for some time.

Just when Ash sighed, Lucca unwittingly made a small noise.

“Nn...”

Her pointy ears twitched cutely.

“Fuuwa!”

After a few moments Lucca, with a very sleepy face, slowly sat up. She generously showed her flat chest to Ash and dazed at him with her sleepy eyes… Until the moment when her vision was focused. She suddenly grabs and hugs Ash.

“Luckily… You were all right…!”

“Uwaaa!” Ash was thrown into a panic after being hugged by a lovely Yōsei girl.

To make it worse… They were on a bed… Naked.

“It huuuurts!”

The moment Lucca hugged him tightly his entire chest hurts. Now is not the time for him to blush in the presence of a naked Yōsei body .

“S-Sorry...”

She let go of Ash gloomily.

Ash, averting his eyes away from the white tender naked body, simply came out with the question...

“I-It’s alright, because I’m already healed, b-but could you please put on some clothes? Back to the topic… Why were you sleeping on the same bed with me?”

“…”

Lucca reached to pick up her one-piece pajama from the floor, while Ash made use of this time to cover his own naked body with the blanket.

Lucca, who had gotten up to put on her pajama, sat down on a chair beside the bed and only then did she answer Ash's question.

“It was because your body’s temperature was dropping… So I’m trying to warm you up.

“I-Is that so. Thank you very much.”

After thanking her kindly… Ash remembered the incident that happened in the Dragon Workshop.

“That’s right…! It may be hard to believe, but… I was at the Dragon Workshop!”

“Dragon Workshop?”

Lucca was surprised.

“That’s it. The workshop where the dragons fabricate their creations. I had a conversation there with Gawain.”

“Huh…?”

Ash tried to explain to Lucca who was stunned.

===Part 7===
After Ash told her the truth, Lucca was in tears.

“Why… Gawain… Because of me… Just because to protect me… It would rather sacrifice its life...”

When he saw Lucca’s shaking shoulders, as she was crying, Ash discovered something.

He had thought of her as a girl without emotions. But that's not the truth. She is just someone who can’t express her emotions well. Her crying for Gawain is the only proof needed.

Thinking back carefully. It was the same during that time.

In the forest during the full moon… Lucca also cried. Ash decision to challenge Gawain was also because of his sympathy for her-

“That’s right. Gawain didn’t allow you to ride on its back because it was worried about you. If the rider was to be afraid of its pal… Then his life will be threatened…”

“It’s… All because of me…”

“Summon your courage!” Although he knows this is a little cruel to her, Ash still shouts it.

Because Navi had already notified him in the Dragon Workshop that Gawain’s life has…

“Please calm down and hear me out. Gawain had only a few more days to live… According to the information that I had received from the Dragon Workshop it can only live for a mere five more days.”

Upon hearing that… Lucca was visibly shaken.

“Before that… How many days have I been sleeping?”

After Ash had asked… Lucca answered by mumbling with her face looking more pale than ever.

“Today is… The sixth day.”

“Huh?”

Ash was taken aback. This means that he had lost consciousness since the first night of the training camp until just now.

Although the training camp lasts for seven days, in reality, there is nothing wrong about taking the sixth day as the last. Because on the seventh day they would only be returning to Ansarivan- just like that.

Also… The main event of the sixth day of the training camp would be cleaning the campsite. The closing ceremony would be held that evening.

In another words… The Selective Training Camp is as good as over.

But Ash didn’t think that he had wasted his time here. The truth wouldn't have been revealed if he had not challenged Gawain.

The thing is… They must make sure of Gawain’s safety. If Navi's prediction is correct… Gawain will die any moment.

“Lucca! Look for Gawain immediately!”

“But… I can’t leave you.”

“I’m already alright. Right now, you must only think about Gawain!”

“…Understood.”

Lucca rubbed off her tears and lifted her head.

Her gaze was full of determination and it moved his heart.

After Ash had nodded to her… Lucca rushed out from the infirmary.

Navi had made a ‘five days’ death declaration.

But Ash had slept for five days…

Just when Ash was worried and held his fist up without being interfered by the pain-

“Ash!”

The owner of the voice who rushed into the room seems to be Eco. Her shiny hair sways as she rushed up to the bed side.

It's likely that Ash was thinking too much when he thought Eco looked tired. Just maybe she hadn’t slept well and her red swollen eyes are alone enough to give him a heartache. It's possibly because she cried a lot after the incident. Ash thought that his heart was going to break.

''-I will not be able to escape from a punch or two from her…'' Ash fears rightly.

Ash was prepared to be hit, but surprisingly Eco was only cuddling in front of the blanket.

“Baka, baka, baka! <ref>Moron</ref> I thought that… Thought that you were going to die! What were you doing? You are owned by me! Don't you know that…!”

Eco hid her face in the blanket and started sobbing.

“Sorry. Eco.”

Ash was petting Eco’s head while bearing with the pain.

Thinking back carefully… The morning alarm must not have rung yet. But Eco, who usually was a sleep-in, had rushed here early in the morning.

''Although she refuses to admit it. She is evidently still my pal…'' Ash was happy down to the depths of his heart.

But the peaceful moment only lasted for a while.

“It is good to hear that you had regained consciousness.”

The student council’s members, led by Rebecca, rushed into the infirmary as a crowd.

“You moron!”

Silvia unhappily scolded.

“Thanks to you for being an idiot I can fully enjoy a twin-sharing bedroom by myself.”

Max was insulting him while adjusting his spectacles on his nose.

“…”

Only Jessica remained troubled and moved her suprisingly sensitive nose around Ash’s blanket. Logically speaking… She should be the first person to hug Ash…

“…What are you doing?”

Upon asking that… Jessica sharply glared at him.

“What is this about…! Why is the blanket full of Lucca-san’s smell! Could it be that Ash-sama… Likes those types of young girls?”

“No… It's not like that!”

Ash became nervous, since it was true that Lucca was sleeping with him, which made it all that much harder to give an explanation.

“What did you say!”

Eco was the first to react after hearing Jessica’s words. It was as if she had transformed into another person. She sniffed the blanket with a cold expression and her eyes widen.

“It's true! This smell of herbal medicine… Is from that Eckbald!”

“C-Calm down. I beg you to calm down first Eco.”

Ash was under great pressure. Although he desperatly wanted to escape through the window he was still stark naked. Once he climbed out from the window his naked body will be exposed. This was a situation where he couldn’t do what he wanted.

“Hold on… Are you insane? Even I, as your master, was not allowed to enter and had to give up on visiting you. But you…”

“I-Is that so?” Ash had wondered about that.

Judging from what she had said… Lucca seemed to have entered the infirmary without permission.

“Ash. You rascal… There are so many to choose from and yet you choose a young junior and lured her into your bed…? Yet why aren't you concerned about the condition of your own health and how we worried about you…”

Silvia’s body was trembling.

“That’s not it… I didn’t lure anyone into my bed! Don’t go on spouting nonsense!”

Too bad for him, but, Silvia didn’t have any intention of listening.

“An enemy of women must face the judgment of the hammer of death!”

Aahh, it seems, that inevitably, I’m going to face some pain… Ash felt like crying.

“Ho-Hold on! I’m still a patient… No?”

But Silvia had long ago clenched her fist tightly and was not at all bothered by Ash’s begging.

Eco too also angrily lifted her right foot.

“This is Lautreamont’s family's rules!”

“I’m gonna trample you!”

===Part 8===

“Huu… In the end, there isn’t a single useful result that was obtained.”

On her right hand was a bright dragon crystal powered torch and on her left’s was a map of the Willingham Mausoleum. Angela sigh in disappointment.

Angela alone had gone through the journey of the exploration of the Willingham Mausoleum.

Although basically she came here as a campsite instructor… Her original motive was still the Willingham Mausoleum. If not because of this… She would never have agree to go to the Selective Training Camp full of sweat and smells.

This was the sixth day she was investigating the Willingham Mausoleum. Since, the first day she arrived at Allonnes Lakeside, she had immediately came here.

“Although the historical value is hard to predict… This is really a letdown.”

Willingham Mausoleum was a grave that was built from a natural cave. The atmosphere was peaceful inside the Willingham Mausoleum which was due to its two thousand years of history.

Angela found quite a number of dragon fossils. She had originally thought that since this is a mausoleum, all the bodies will be buried nicely. But, there seems to be exception.

“…Huh?”

Just when Angela was marching towards the exit. -She suddenly stood still.

In front of her was a strange fork road. Angela, who was always calm, had just turned pale.

“Could it be…”

Angela had inspected the map for one more time. This was a totally different place compared to the intended route. It seems that she was lost because of her carelessness. Her deduction skills had dropped probably because of her lack of sleep.

''No matter what, if I don’t find a way out… I’m sure to meet the same fate as these dragons.'' Angela feared.

“Since I had been in love with the dragons for a long time… It's not a bad idea to be buried with them... Like hell I would!”

Angela, while commenting to herself, was thinking about her troubles.

Basically. All the instructors and students knew she is at Willingham Mausoleum. If she returned late… They will send someone to search for her.

“I’m really… How could I be this unlucky!”

After putting down her luggage Angela rested with her back facing the rocks. She thinks that this is not a time for her to be running around in panic.

''-Click.''

In a few moments… She heard voices that could never be found in nature.

“…?"

At the same time, while making a ‘Ssssssss’ sound, the wall behind Angela moved.

“T-This is?"

Angela immediately turned her head around. The place where there originally should have been rocks now has a rectangular hole. She immediately shine the hole with her bright dragon crystal powered torch.

The hole is suspected to be a secret passage where the end couldn't even be seen.

“Could it be that… This mechanism was designed by the dragons?"

Although the details weren't clear… What she can be sure of is that she accidentally set off the trigger. But under the eyes of a commoner this passage would just seem like a normal natural cave…

After wiping of the dust off her spectacles Angela shouted in joy.

“Who would know that such mechanisms exist. This is the century’s biggest discovery!”

Angela had forgotten that she was in a fix and lifted her bright dragon crystal powered torch while stepping into the secret passage.

===Part 9===
“This is just too good to be true…!”

At the end of the secret passage Angela gave another cheer.

There was a space here that had nothing to do with the mausoleum at all.

It is the size of a classroom at the academy. In this dug out space, bookshelves, tables, sofas and other furniture can be seen.

There were carpets of different designs on the floor that gave it an elegant atmosphere.

After the torch was shone on the ceiling, Angela was stunned.

“That’s…”

On the ceiling was an extravagant chandelier. But it still seemed logical since it had bright-dragon-crystal in it. If any grave robbers had found it, they will be sure to move it away immediately.

Angela looked upwards and sang a chant. What she was singing was a basic level oracle and the light immediately lightens up. A light far stronger than the torch had lit the room and thus Angela was able to explore every single corner.

“This carpet, without a doubt, it is a dragon’s creation. This design was once very popular among the dragons of about a thousand years ago. The rest of the furniture also has the dragons’ style…”

The dragons, who were at the same time artisans, have special taste for beauty. It is totally different from humans’ design.

“What is the reason for the dragons to build this room…?”

Angela suddenly looked at the table.

There was a book that was an inch thick lying on the antique table. The book itself emits a serious feeling that made it seem like it was the owner of this room.

“Is it… To pass this book to the humans…?’

Angela approached the table and took the book. The over luxurious looks gave a deep impression and the weight is extremely heavy, just like an encyclopedia.

“Could…. This be the ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’…?”

Angela’s spectacles nearly slide off her nose.

The Chevron Kingdom and the Knight Country worships Rosa Maria and made it as the country’s religion. The bible that records the teaching is usually called the Stella Biblia

The Stella Biblia records about the life of Saint Rosa Maria and her pal Eco. The believers learn the religion’s teaching through the study of Rosa Maria and Eco’s way of life. The reason why Ash named his pal ‘Eco’ is because of he was influenced by this Stella Biblia.

By the way, although it was said that the ‘Stella Biblia’ have two versions which are the ‘Old Testament’ and ‘New Testament”, but only the ‘New Testament’ is recognized by the headquarters for the Rosa Maria religion's - Holy Espada Agency. Just not too long ago even the Old Testament was banned…

Angela happily flipped over the pages and read out a few sentences.

“…After the wise dragon Inbroke, two major bloodlines were formed. They are the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family and the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family. An endless war started from these two families-.”

Angela was confused.

“T-This… did this happen during the ancient kingdom…? But it felt like a legend after reading…”

As if it was to help Angela to get rid of her trouble, a sound of another person was heard in the room.

“No, that is exactly the truth.”

“-!”

Angela immediately hid the Old Testament of the Stella Biblia in between her arms and coldly glared at the intruder.

“A grave robber? No… You don’t look like that kind of person.”

“In the ancient times… When the Zono Ton Enlightenment had started in this Ark Strada Continent… The two families who inherited the wise dragon Inbroke’s bloodline had started the bloody war."

A tall and skinny guy said this story.

The only thing that can be clearly seen was his silver mask. His expression was hard to be judged because his eyes were covered. There were a few strands of red hairs mixing in with the rest of his silvery hair and he emits an evil aura.

Although, his attire is of a mercenary, he gave out an extraordinary feel that made his clothes stand out.

An oat colored skin girl was silently standing behind him. Her face looks handsome and cute but her eyes express strong determination.

This small sized girl was wearing her tribal gear. The metal glove in her left hand attracts attention and there is a high possibility that there are weapons in it.

“Both of you are…!”

Angela remembered.

The two suspicious people that Ash met in the forest about two months ago.

Angela had also gone through the reports that the student council sorted. According to it… The girl called the guy ‘Milgauss-sama’.

“Why would both of you come to these ruins?”

Angela acted calm and asked them coolly.

On her right hand was a bright-dragon-crystal made ring. The red crystal signifies a fire element.

Her only winning chance will be the element of surprise…

But Milgauss, as if he had already knew what she was thinking, said:

“You wanted to use the red-flame dragon’s-breath as an attack. No?”

Angela gasped after her intention of using the oracle had been found out.

“I’ll advise you for not doing that. Those puny flames, that can only kill dragonflies, can hurt me? To dragons, those flames were nothing. Am I wrong Ann?”
[[Image:SnRK V03 201.jpg|thumb|“You wanted to use the red flame dragon’s breath as an attack. No?”]]

“What…!”

Angela’s eyes widen. If that guy addressed her as ‘Professor Cornwell’ she wouldn’t even be surprised. Since she is one of the top researchers for the dragons it would be normal if people of the Zepharos Empire recognized her.

But Milgauss addressed her as ‘Ann’.

“Y-You… Could you be…!”

In the mean time, she felt something was off. Until the moment her feeling turned into reality, the ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’ had fallen on to the ground.

Angela was no stranger to Milgauss's elegant voice.

Logically speaking… This is their first meeting but Angela recognized that voice.

Once she realized the truth, in her eyes, Milgauss's standing posture and his hidden smile overlapped with ‘the person’ she recognized.

''-I knew this guy! But he… Shouldn't even be living…''

Angela’s lips trembled while looking at Milgauss’s face. ''How could this be''… Angela couldn’t help but keep on thinking about the face underneath the mask.

===Part 10===
It was twelve years before.

The young genius girl - Angela Cornwell, who was thirteen at that time, had graduated from the University of Fontaine City and wanted to move overseas for further studies.

The location was the highest academy institution in Chevron Kingdom, University of Feachador. The education fees were fully covered by the Knight’s royal family.

It was in the university’s research lab that Angela met the ‘Ouji-sama’<ref>Prince</ref>

That time should be around mid-summer. In the month of Leo.

That day was the University of Feachador’s anniversary and the whole place was crowded.

But only Angela alone was in the research lab still doing research about dragons. The lecturers and the students had gone out to enjoy the celebration.

But someone appeared in front Angela who was in the middle of her research. That person was Julius.

Julius Lautreamont made use of the Ansarivan’s Dragon Riding Academy’s summer break opportunity to visit the Chevron Kingdom. Apart from vacation he also bears the job of a diplomat.

“Haha. I thought I saw an angel! Are you the daughter of a lecturer or a sister of a student?”

“I-I, myself, am a student!”

According to Julius… He ran into the university to escape from some troublesome fans. In the end… He had gotten lost.

He had a handsome look about him and yet also a, somewhat, mischievous behavior.

Julius was only sixteen during that time and he was already a dragner.

Not only he was strong and smart… He was also an attractive boy. The meeting she had with Julius had left a deep impression in her mind.

Julius smile had melted, the lonely genius, Angela’s heart.-

===Part 11===
The feeling that Milgauss gave out is almost the same as Julius’s. Even after he put on the mask and changed his hair style… The manner in which he speaks was still the same as years before.

“H-How… Is this possible…!”

Angela was stunned.

Milgauss had given orders to the girl behind him coldly.

“Do it!”

The girl immediately adjusted the weapon in her left hand’s metal glove- It is a leather whip that the mountains tribes love to use.

“Haa!”

The whip bends according to the girls shout.

The whip swept past Angela with a ‘sss’ and she bend her knees to avoid. Her spectacles were hit and fell to the ground.

“Urgh…”

Even though the girl attacked from the front… Angela’s back was in pain. It seems that the whip easily avoided Angela’s field of vision and attacked from the back.

“B-Both of you… What is the reason you… Come to Willingham Mausoleum-”

At the same time… Angela thought of the only possibility.

The culprit guilty of using the Necromancia, to attack Ansarivan, has yet to be found out.

But, according to the time when Milgauss appeared at Ansarivan, it is reasonable to suspect him.

''-The crucial material of creating the Necromancia are the bones of the dragons.''

If Milgauss is the culprit for releasing the Necromancia, then shouldn’t the Willingham Mausoleum become very dangerous? Since there were many bones buried underground…!

“I beg you… Immediately... Leave this place-”

Angela with a trembling voice said towards the students who were at the lakeside preparing for the closing ceremony.

Needless to say… No one is able to receive her warning-

The girl knocked her with a hatchet and she lost consciousness.

===Part 12===
After making sure that Angela had fainted… Anya turned around and looked at Milgauss.

“About this woman… How are we gonna deal with her? She is still a good scholar; it is a pity for us to kill her…”

Milgauss replied coldly.

“I don’t need anyone like her. Just end her lif- Guuk!”

The next moment, Milgauss looked strange. He was suddenly breathing heavily in pain and struggling while kneeling down on the floor.

“Guu… This damn person! Such determination… Must he interfere with me-!”

Milgauss was muttering something weird.

“M-Milgauss-sama!”

Anya was nervous when she ran to Milgauss. This was the first time she saw Milgauss suffer to this extend. She had never heard before that Milgauss had any ailment disease…

“…Fear not. I’m absolutely alright.”

Milgauss suddenly stood up which made the pain before look like a show. The feeling though is like after a demon being excoriated.

“Err… Milgauss-sama? Are you really alright? Anything wrong with your-“

“I’m very fine. The main point is-“

Milgauss was looking at the floor. Angela was still unconscious. Milgauss who addressed her as ‘Ann’. The sound of it made it seem like he was calling a close friend or a lover…

"Let’s not bother about this woman. This is a Mausoleum for the dragons. The dead body of a human will only dirty this place."

“…Understoood.”

Until Anya replied, even when she was still troubled by it, Milgauss had turned around facing another side.

“Milgauss-sama…?’

Anya was confused.

She doesn’t understand what was happening around Milgauss.

Just before he turned strange, Milgauss wanted to kill Angela… ''But why did he change his mind?''

Milgauss continued to give orders to Anya who was still letting her thoughts wonder.

“I’ll activate the Necromancia in a few moments. Be prepared to head back to Ansarivan.”

“Understood.”

Although she was still worried, about Milgauss's physical condition, Anya still answered immediately.

The time for the battle is about to begin.

===Part 13===
In the evening… Ash had nothing to do.

Under the assistance of the healing magic his injuries were now much better. Although his body still hurts he can now walk on his own. Also… He was now able to wear a patients’ gown. Anyway. It was embarrassing to remain naked.

Having said that. It is the truth that he was still badly injured.

Not only his head but his entire body warped up into a mummy. Apart from going to the washroom he was forbiden from going anywhere let alone outside.

Ash was staring at the scenery outside the window for quite some time.

“Is the closing ceremony starting…?” He wondered.

At the lakeside, as dusk is now ending, the preparations for the campfire are still going on. In about an hours time those logs, that were stacked up high, will be burned.

Rebecca, Silvia, Jessica, Cosette, Max… These friends, who had visited him a few times in the morning, were hardly seen just before and during the sunset. This is also because they were busy preparing for the ceremony.

On the other hand… Lucca should be meeting with Gawain deep in the Norg Forest.

Three hours ago, she purposely came back and told Ash that Gawain was still living. After knowing that Gawain was still breathing Ash breathed a sigh of relieve.

The next thing to do is for Lucca to overcome her fear towards Gawain so the Astral, that connects both of them, may continue to flow.

“Zzz… Zzz…”

Eco was sleeping peacefully with her head on the bed. It is probable that she didn’t get enough sleep while Ash was in a comma.

“I’m entering. Ash!”

At this moment Rebecca’s voice and a knock on the door sounded at the same time. Before Ash could reply she had already walked into the room.

Rebecca, who was in her swimming wear, wore only a thin shirt covering her top which made her look quite sexy.

Rebecca’s swimming wear was red in color. Since the shirt was unbuttoned, her deep cleavage, thin white waist and the bikini lines can totally be seen.

“Rebecca-san…!”

Ash doesn’t know where to look at.

“Do you feel better now?”

After looking at Eco with her gentle eyes, she looked at Ash with a serious expression.

“I’m fine. I can even go to the toilet on my own!”

“Good. Back to the main point… I’m worried about something.”

“What’s it?”

“Angela-sensei hasn't yet returned from the ruins even after I had advised her that she must attend the closing ceremony...”

Ash was stunned. He had heard about Angela going to Willingham Mausoleum on the first evening of the training camp. In another words… Angela didn’t know that Ash was badly injured.

“According to her standard behavior… Angela must be too immersed in her explorations. No?”

Ash gave an arbitrary smile but Rebecca was still troubled by it.

“It is alright if it is just like that… I’m worried that she had accidentally met with a grave robber.”

-Bang! Just as Rebecca was talking.

The door suddenly opened and Lucca entered from outside. Because she was running there was a lot of sweat which was probably the cause for her summer uniform to be wet.

It is rare to see her panicking when she always does things so deliberately.

Eco seems to have been woken by the all the commotion. “Nyuu.“ She made a sleepy sound and she slowly sat up rubbing her eyes while looking around.

“What happened?” Ash, more than concerned, asked.

Lucca answered slowly since she was breathing heavily:

“That… kid… Gawain…!”

===Part 14===
Lucca told the whole story slowly.

''-Gawain is dead?''

Ash was thinking about the worst outcome but the truth was not like what he had expected.

Gawain seemed to hide itself when Lucca was not around.

Lucca had been together with Gawain for the entire morning.

As long as she overcomes her fear of falling from Gawain’s back, Gawain will once again accept her. Thus their Astral will once again be connected and Gawain won’t die.

Lucca was facing Gawain with only this thought- But not only did Gawain not accept Lucca it had also hidden itself.

Rebecca gently hugged Lucca who was crying.

“Gawain will never discard you. It probably felt that it was finally going to die and didn’t want you to suffer anymore by seeing its dying expression. So…”

After hearing Rebecca’s assumption, Ash also agreed with it, but Lucca continued...

“We will look for Gawain immediately! Didn’t we already find out the reason why the astral couldn’t connect? With a little more effort… We will be able to save Gawain! But it had already given up… How can we let this happen!”

Rebecca, still willing to help, nodded in agreement.

“That’s right… I also think so. We need not follow exactly what Gawain wants. The problem is… Where is it hiding right now…”

“T-That…”

Lucca provided information to Rebecca who was thinking deeply. She had rubbed off her tears and set herself with a determined look.

“I think… It must have gone into Willing Mausoleum. That is a grave specially for young dragons… Gawain was still at its juvenile age.”

Rebecca nodded.

“Hmm.. That’s possible. Have you ever before heard the story of ‘The dragon of Willingham’?”

“I had heard of it before. My mom always told me this story when I was younger.”

===Part 15===
-It was a disaster that happened to a young dragon.

When Nuada was young… it still managed to become a maestro. But it could not bear to see its young master suffering in her illness so it cut off its Astral. In the end… Nuada had become very weak.

But Nuada swore never to let its master see its dying moment so it left quietly. Later, although the girl recovered, Nuada had died in Willingham Mausoleum alone after some time.

When Ash heard this story from his mother, when he was still a child, he cried.

Rebecca as if wanted to change the atmosphere in the room declared:

“I’ll never let Gawain meet the same fate as Nuada. So… The closing ceremony will be temporally canceled. I’ll ask all the students to look for Gawain. It will be even better if we could find Angela-sensei at the same time.”

“No! please hold on.”

Ash was against this proposal.

“Let the students enjoy the closing ceremony. I had been unconscious for these few days, so I don’t know what kind of training that they had been through, but everyone must have placed their best effort into it. The point for organizing the closing ceremony… Ain’t it to congratulate those students who completed the training camp?”

“You are right, but, what were you planning? Could it be…”

Ash smiled.

“That’s right. I’ll be responsible for the search. Rest assure, thanks to the healing magic, I’m almost fully recovered.”

This is actually a lie. Every time Ash moved he felt pain in both his organs and joints. Even so… He still wouldn’t give up.

Upon hearing this Eco, who was silent the whole time, became angry.

“Are you kidding! Or you must be an idiot! It is clear that your body is still weak… And yet you want to look for that weak dragon!”

Ash places his hand on Eco’s head to calm her down. Even though she was angry, it was still because that she cares and worries about Ash.

“Please, forgive me, Eco. I couldn’t just kept on watching silently. That fella is not a weak dragon.”

“B-But…”

“If you are worrying about me Eco, then why don’t you come with me?”

Eco immediately blushed like a wildfire.

“W-What… M-Me… I never worried about you!”

Ash was not bothered by Eco, who kept on denying herself while shaking her hands, and bowed down in front of Rebecca.

“I beg you… Rebecca.”

“Tsk… I don’t think I can say no. Or else, the closing ceremony will go on as usual but all the student council’s members will help in the search."

“No, that won’t work out, if Rebecca-san is absent everyone will be suspicious about it. For such a ceremony… I hope that every student will enjoy it to the fullest.”

“But-”

Just when Rebecca wanted to explain… The infirmary room’s door opened with a loud bang.

“If that’s the case… I’ll take over that job of yours. As a dragner; We must help those who are in trouble. - This is the Lautreamont’s family’s rules!”

The person who said this was Silvia.

===Part 16===
The search party that had been decided upon consisted of four members which were Ash, Silvia, Eco and Lucca.

Max and Jessica had agreed to go with them but were stopped by Rebecca. Because if too many of the student council members were absent, suspicion will still arise among the students.

Lancelot was now giving four people a ride with Silvia in front holding the reins.

''-Behind princess…''

Ash, who was right behind Silvia, was in fear.

Riding on the dragon while wearing the dragsuit designed for the palace and having her hair tied up nicely… Silvia’s charms as a dragner and a princess emerged.

Although Ash had previously rode on Lancelot with Silvia, during the Necromancia’s attack, he was totally immersed in the battle that time. He didn’t noticed Silvia’s appeal as the opposite sex.

“What are you doing? If you don’t hold on tightly… You’ll fall.”

After being scolded by Silvia ash made up his mind and stretched out his arms. When his arms finally surrounded Silvia’s waist… He was surprised that her abdomen was so thin and fragile.

The third person was Eco. She held on to Ash’s waist gently which probably is because that she was worrying about Ash’s injuries.

“You must also hold on tightly.”

When Ash turned his head around, Eco blushed.

“If I use my true strength… Then your body will be squashed!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Eco cared about Ash’s condition, in her own way, which made his happiness run deep down to the bottom of his heart.

The last person to ride the dragon was Lucca. She was not sitting on the saddle but the end of the tail.

“Hey, Lucca. Are you alright… Sitting like that?”

Silvia asked in surprised.

“It’s alright.”

Lucca answered lightly. It seems that she doesn’t like the riding gear.

Lancelot, who was now carrying four people, gracefully flew up and towards the sky.

===Part 17===
Walking from the traing camp’s location, by the lake, to the Willingham Mausoleum would take about an hour. But, using Lancelot, they arrive in an instant.

Ash thought about Gawain while riding on Lancelot’s back...

''-Tsk… Damn that Gawain… Playing hide and seek when it knew it was dying? What is it trying to act cool for… I’ll never allow it to follow Nuada’s footsteps…!''

Not much later. A stretch of high grounds appeared.

“That should be the entrance to Willingham Mausoleum.”

Silvia said while controlling the reins.

Just as Silvia had said… There was an entrance like building at the middle of the hills. The area surrounding the structure was well shrouded by a thin layer of silky mist. There was an alter-like entrance adorned with shining bright-dragon-crystal powered lights that illuminated the surrounding area.

''Did Angela walk into that type of place alone…?'' Ash felt a cold chill just by thinking about it. It doesn’t matter how you look at it; This place is just not suitable for a lady to enter into alone. It's reasonable for Rebecca to become worried. They also mustn’t ignore the possibility she was attacked by some grave robbers…

Just like sweeping away Ash’s thoughts. Silvia shouted:

“Alright, get ready for landing!”

Lancelot gave a brave roar and started the high speed landing maneuver.

===Part 18===
Milgauss was standing at the top of the hill looking at the world below.

Before his eyes was the entrance to Willingham Mausoleum.

Looking at the landscape further out; There is the Norg Forest and Allonnes Lakeside. Not to mention the buildings for the training camp.

The campfire along the Allonnes Lakeside had been lit at and the closing ceremony had officially begun.

On the ground was a coffin-like box. Milgauss opened the lid and took out a gigantic black sword.

This same gigantic sword is the tool used to summon the Necromancia.

This is the great result of the Empires’ proud mechanical engineering and the development of the dragons. - The remnant of the Magic Techniques. <ref>魔導工学 Magic based mechanics</ref>

After Milgauss had returned to his country… He had improvised this device.

This gigantic sword, that once looked like a piece of art work, had now become more dangerous and mechanized.

The bright dragon crystals on the hilt had increased tremendously. There are a total of nine big crystals and more than twenty smaller ones. If it was to be for sale it could surely fetch large amount of money. But in Milgauss eyes… The expensive crystals were but tools.

Milgauss easily lifted the gigantic sword and stabbed it deep into the ground. This was to send it's magic into the inner part of the mausoleum.

The dragon jaw shaped sword made a deep heavy sound and sunk into the rocks.

“This looks like a tombstone.”

Just when Milgauss was mumbling… A white shape swept passed his eyes. A flying object, that he thought to be a dragon, was getting nearer at a rapid pace.

As it flew over he spied the shadow which looked exactly like Lancelot's. Milgauss widened his eyes, that were under the mask, and looked at the evening sky.

“Hmph… The princess. On patrol?”

Milgauss immediately hid behind the rocks. Even though he thought that the sky was dark enough to hide him from the eyes of the rider he must never underestimate the eyes of a dragon.

Luckily, Lancelot had quickly begun its landing. It seems that they were heading for the mausoleum’s entrance. In a few moments he lost sight of Lancelot.

“Let’s begin.” Exiting from the cover of the rocks.

Milgauss grabbed the hilt of the gigantic sword and started to sing out the spell.

''“Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Show yourself by the crystals of the Magic Techniques. The spirits of the young dragons now be revived.”''

In a moments time… The bright-dragon-crystals on the hilt began to shine brightly.

===Part 19===
“A-Angela-sensei… Came to this cave?”

Silvia, who just alighted from Lancelot, was shocked after she examined at Willingham’s Mausoleum’s entrance.

She didn’t expect the mausoleum to be this scary.

It was fine while the sun was still bright but the now darkening sky made it seem a lot scarier.

The mist surrounding the entrance made it look like the doors to hell. Although there were bright-dragon-crystal powered lights around the entrance… They still didn’t ease her fear.

“Gawain…”

Ash placed his hand on Lucca’s head because of her worried looks.

“Rest assured. We will definitely find Gawain.”

“Nnn…” Lucca softly answered.

At the same time… A bolt struck out deep into the evening sky followed by the roaring sound of thunder.

“Kyaa!”

The first person to scream was Silvia.

Ash made a sympathetic smile. Although, under Veronica’s training, she had become stronger, she was still a coward.

But this mildly amusing situation was immediately interrupted by Eco.

“…Just like that time.”

Eco was looking at the sky with her sharp eyes.

Lancelot had also assumed it's alert posture and was growling with a "Grrrrrr…."

In the blink of an eye… Dark clouds had almost entirely filled the sky.

“Are you saying about the time when the Necromancia attacks…?”

Eco nodded while answering seriously.

“That’s right. This bad feeling… I can't be wrong about it!”

At this time the earth started and kept on shaking.

Ash nearly fell because of the strong continuous shaking. He already had a hard time to keeping balanced.

“Kyaa!”

But the other girl that fell in his direction had dragged him down together with her.

The girl who fell into his chest was Eco. Silvia, who already wouldn’t let go of his right arm, and also Lucca was tightly clinging onto his left arm. Even under this type of situation… Ash couldn’t enjoy it not one bit.

“Urgh-!”

His whole body was in pain. The rest had forgotten that Ash was a serious patient that had been advised by the doctor to have a sufficient amount of rest.

“S-Sorry! Are you alright?”

“S…orry!”

“It’s all because of me…”

Silvia, Lucca and Eco immediately apologized.

“Don’t worry… I’m alright.”

Ash didn’t want the others to worry about him and squeeze out a smile. But, his smile doesn’t look natural and he prayed that the dark sky can provide some cover for him.

After the earthquake stopped… Ash stood up.

“Fhuss…”

A sound as if it was laughing at Ash stubbornness was heard.

“-!”

One by one… A scary sight appeared from the dark corner of the mausoleum. They were not humans. Although they looked like dragons, they didn’t have the holy feelings that the dragons emit.

“Necromancia!”

At the same time that Eco warned the others… Something rushed out from the mausoleum.

Something that was bigger than a horse but too small compared to a dragon. Alas, there wasn't only just one, there were a bunch of them.

There were around five of them and each of them looked like a young Asia. Their bodies were black and have mad eyes, sharp teeth and a strong rotten smell.

“A young dragon sized… Necromancia?”

Just as Ash was speaking his thoughts… The leader of the Necromancia's attacked. After its mouth opened, shining rays could be seen- ''Don!'' And a ball of flames came flying along the ground.

Lancelot made a scary roar and activated its defensive magic’s shield and immediately the breath attack was nullified.

But there is no time to thank Lancelot.

The group had already extended their many deep red colored tentacles now and they were getting nearer.

Silvia became the first victim.

“Kyaa!”

“Princess!”

Although Ash immediately stretched out his hand, he still missed. The slimy and sticky tentacles wrapped around Silvia’s thin body and hoisted her up into the air.
[[Image:SnRK V03 225.jpg|thumb|The slimy and sticky tentacles wrapped around Silvia’s thin body and hoisted her up into the air.]]

“I-Insolent fools! How dare you touch the Royal Knight’s family’s Princess...!”

Too bad they were not someone that could be communicated with language.

Although Silvia struggled… The more she struggle the harder the tentacles grip became. In very little time more than half of her dragsuit was torn off and the buttons had come loose.

“S-Stop! Stop this insolent behavior...! Ahh... Stoooop!”

Silvia’s scream could be heard all over.

“Eco. Hand me the Ark quick!”

Eco angrily rejected Ash’s request.

“No way! You are still a patient! The Ark will burden your body-”

“Is this a time to worry about those things! Princess is in danger right now!”

“B-But...”

Compared to Eco, who stood still, Lancelot had started to make his move.

To save its master, it had used the red flaming dragon breath.

''-Don!''

That was a true breath and wasn't comparable to flames created by an Oracle. The unimaginable destructive force had turned the five Necromancia blocking the entrance into fire balls.

“Grrrroooorrrr!”

The five Necromancias who were on fire roared in agony and changed their target to Ash and the rest. But Lancelot gave a final flaming breath which further turned the Necromancia into ashes.

Although they were young dragons there were no difference from the hardiness of a regular Necromancia. As the tentacles snapped, Silvia was caught by Lancelot as she was falling.

“Huff... Puff... Thank you! Lancelot.”

Ash gave a sigh of relieve when he saw Silvia was safe. But he immediately heard Lucca screaming.

“That...!”

Lucca was standing by the cliff and was looking at the direction to the lakeside. No, it was actually towards Norg Forest.

“Anything?”

“The forest... Was polluted...”

Lucca, as an Eckbald, was sensitive to the changes in the forest.

Ash looked towards the direction she was looking at and he was dumbstruck.

''-Dodododododo....''

The forest was shaking and the feeling was like a group of Asia’s running. The wild birds and small animals were shocked and their sound could be heard one after another.

Judging from Lucca’s sense of ‘Polluted…’ The Asia type Necromancia could be on the move in the forest.

It seems that apart from the main door… There were other options that the Necromancias came out from.

“Ash, quickly, look at the lakeside!”

Silvia was shouting on Lancelot’s back while pointing to the lakeside.

“Could it be that... Those were also Necromancia?”

Ash clenched his trembling fist. The black shapes were moving around the dark lake. Thanks to the campfire at the lakeside he can somehow make out their shadows.

Those must be the Hydra type Necromancia. The total amount should be around twenty... No, it seems that, it was around thirty. They were moving towards the campfire by the lakeside.

“They are also at the sky!”

This time it was Eco who was pointing at the sky. A group of Strada type Necromancia, while making some weird type of bird noises, were circling around the sky. They seemed to ignore Ash and the rest and were heading towards the campsite...

“So I see... Their target is to attack the training camp!”

Ash angrily clenched his fists on both hands.

“Damn... Even when the students there were top students, the only ones who had experience in dealing with Necromancia were Max and Rebecca. Are they going to be alright?"

“Ash, now is not the time to worry about the others. We can only trust the president to protect the training camp.”

Silvia’s calm voice dragged Ash back to reality.

She focused her sight onto the entrance of the mausoleum.

“That’s...!”

Ash turned speechless.

A second batch of Asia type Necromancia had rushed out and there were six of them this time.

“Grrrr...”

Lancelot with a growl and a breath attack exploded over them turning three of the leading Necromancia into ashes.

At this moment, the deep red colored tentacles rushed forward. However, Lancelot was not intimidated by them. It stood up, with its hind legs supporting its body, and slashed the Necromancia with its hammer like front legs. The sharp claws made a screeching sound and the tentacles were torn up like knives slicing rubber bands.

The scene could only be described as 'dead bodies everywhere.'

In only a few minutes the second batch of Asia type Necromancia were totally wiped out.

“S-Strong...!”

Lancelot’s heroic fight amazed Ash while Silvia’s dragon controlling skill had also improved significantly.

Silvia looked down towards the rest of the gang with a skillful look.

“Ride on Lancelot! Quickly, we are going into the mausoleum.”

===Part 20===
[[Image:SnRK V03 006-007.jpg|thumb|''... Rebecca is just too great. Jessica, who led the group of Hydras, was muttering while looking at Cú Chulainn who was flying above in the night sky.'']]
“All of you here had gone through the five days Selective Training Camp! Your skills have improved significantly! You must have faith in yourself! Your skills are far better than what you had imagined!”

Under Rebecca’s command the students had mounted their pals.

The Stradas were flying, the Asias were on their way to Norg Forest and the Hydras gathered at Allonnes Lake. Their strategy––An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

“... Rebecca is just too great.”

Jessica, who led the group of Hydras, was muttering while looking at Cú Chulainn who was flying above in the night sky.

===Part 21===
Rebecca was standing at the high end of Cú Chulainn’s neck. She was already in her Ark. The enormous amount of magic was surrounding her entire body. Max was acting as her second in command riding behind her on Arianrhod.

Not long before… The students were happily enjoying the cozzy atmosphere around the closing ceremony’s campfire.

But the Necromancias attacking from three directions, which were land, water and air, had drastically changed the mood. Just like heaven and hell the students were all in a panic, but thanks to Rebecca the tables had turned. Just a simple talk from Rebecca had given them the courage to fight.

Now, not only were the students not in any fear, they even trembled in excitement.

A huge amount of Necromancias were approaching.

There was only about a hundred meters in between them.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Rebecca naturally led the attack.

“Gáe Bolg!”

A bright light appeared after the spell had ended and a long spear appeared. Gáe Bolg’s light pierced through the dark sky followed by an explosion. One by one the Strada type Necromancia fell to the ground.

“Attack!”

Rebecca commanded like a general.

''“Oooooo!”''

Upon receiving the order… All the students attacked at the same time.

===Part 22===
Dim white lights were emitted from Lancelot’s horn.

This was a basic magic for the dragons. Thus, Ash and the rest didn’t have to rely on the bright-dragon-crystal torch while traversing the cave. Lancelot was walking forward silently and steadily through the cave. Its usual earth shaking footsteps almost couldn't be felt.

This had lessened the amount of burden that Ash’s, medically weak, body had to endure.

“Thank you. Princess.”

Silvia was surprised that Ash spoke behind her ears and her neck suddenly gave a jerk.

Because her hair was tied up with a red ribbon her white neck was exposed.

“Why are you acting with such ambiguity! I had done nothing that deserves your thanks!”

“You were worried about me and purposely asked Lancelot to slow down. Right? So…”

“I-I had never thought that far! How can we move quickly in this narrow space!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Silvia was shy about it. For such a great dragon like Lancelot… To move quickly in such a narrow space is but child’s play.

“-Careful!”

Silvia suddenly shouted.

“Ksharrrr!”

Three Strada type Necromancia attacked from the front. They looked more like bats than dragons.

Even though they were once noble dragons in their own time, after they became Necromancia, they were no different from any undistinguished animal.

Ash tensed. The next second...

“Grooooo….!”

Lancelot gave an angry roar… Along the path, where the brilliant dragon stepped passed, there were only ashes left behind.

“Such excellence.”

Upon hearing Ash’s murmur… Silvia proudly lifted her chest.

“Hmph… During your time spent recovering… I had completed every single course in the Selective Training Camp. The days when I did battle stimulations with the president was every day… I felt like crying when I said that."

What Silvia said felt like a sad tone hidden in it. She seemed to experience something terrible. Ash who had only experienced the first day’s sea water bath was regretting. 

But… The main reason Silvia became strong was mainly because of Princess Veronica’s encouragement.

If Veronica hadn’t visited Ansarivan last week… Silvia may not have turned over a new leaf.

“Back to the topic. Why haven’t we seen Angela-sensei yet?... I'm hoping she wasn’t attacked by the Necromancia.”

Silvia sighed while looking at the mausoleum’s map.

“We also haven’t found Gawain yet… Lucca. Have you felt anything?”

“I can’t… Because the Astral was not connected… My ‘Seikoku’ was not responding."

Sinca Lucca couldn’t feel anything; They could only ransack the entire cave. Although it will be a tiresome job, just by only imagining it, it was still an emergency.

“Another thing… Eco. There is something that I must tell you first hand.”

Ash was looking at Eco through his shoulders.

“Anything?”

Eco who was clinging tightly at Ash’s back lifted her head while feeling annoyed.

“The next time I ask you to hand me the Ark… Please do so immediately. Any doubt at that moment could make you regret for your whole life.”

“Wha…!”

Eco immediately explode. She kept on hitting Ash with her fist.

“I won’t allow you to order me! Be careful or I’ll trample you!”

Although the way she was hitting was more like emotionally pouting… The strength that she put in still made him suffer.

“I-It hurts! S-Stop hitting me!”

“Have you forgotten that you are still a patient! Even though those were temporally made mimic-Arks they still burden your body!”

Although she said it angrily… She was still concerned about Ash. The way she thinks made Ash happy but the situation right now was an emergency and maybe the mastermind was still somewhere in this mausoleum.

“If not… Could you create an Ark that doesn’t cause much burden to the body?”

“What did you say?”

“Please, I believed that you are able to make an Ark that was suitable for my current situation.”

“H-How… Could you speak with such confidence!”

“Do you even need to ask? Because Eco is my excellent pal!”

“…!”

It was possible that she was moved by Ash… Eco was speechless and blushed.

“Alright… B-But, during the time I’m in the dragon workshop, my body…”

Ash immediately knew what she was going to say.

Only a spirit can enter the dragon workshop and the true body will be left in this world.

When the spirit left the body the empty shell will be defenseless.

“Worry not. I’ll protect your body.”

Ash loosened his grip on Silvia’s waist and carefully switched places with Eco while trying not to fall off from Lancelot.

“Ash…?”

Eco was dumbstruck and turned around to look at Ash.

Ash then hugged Eco’s waist tightly.

“Wha-W-Wha…!”

Eco’s shoulders twisted for one moment and her body had become log like.

Her ears hidden in her hairs were red.

As if hot air is going to burst out anytime.

“I-If you don’t hold on to me tightly… You better watch out!” Eco said angrily

After that she relaxed and rested her back up against Ash’s chest. He could smell the fragrance of her shampoo.

The next moment Eco’s body went limp and was like a puppet whose strings had snapped. She loses her strength and lays her head on Ash’s right shoulder.

Ash had felt that her spirit had left her body.

“Our hopes are on you… Eco.”

Ash murmur was like praying as he held on tightly to Eco’s limp body.

===Part 23===
“Huh?”

Silvia immediately stopped Lancelot when they arrived at a large cavern.

It doesn’t look like a place that has Necromancia.

Lancelot increased the light intensity of its horns to brighten the extra space.

Silvia was holding the reins with her right hand and was checking the map with her left.

“According to this map… This should be the centre of the mausoleum.”

“Centre...”

Ash was holding on to Eco who was still unconscious tightly while looking around.

Silvia turned back and was secretly looking at Ash’s face.

“...”

Just to make a new Ark for Ash, Eco had went to the dragon workshop. Ash kept on holding to her petite body tightly for some time.

Of course the reason Ash did so was to prevent Eco from falling off from Lancelot... But Silvia had been jumpy since and couldn’t remain completely calm.

''-Damn, what am I getting nervous about!''

Silvia had reaffirmed herself and was looking around her surrounding carefully.

The size of the space was about the size of the academy’s lecture hall. The cavern ceiling was extremely high estimated at about fifteen meters. There were a lot of winged-cross shaped tombstones all around on the floor.

All the tombstones were at least five meters in height. The winged cross in the middle was far bigger than the rest. Its height almost touched the stone ceiling. Is there a powerful dragon buried there?

Too bad they still haven’t found Angela and Gawain. Logically speaking, this large empty space, located in the middle of the entire mausoleum, should be the place with the highest probability of finding them...

After Silvia gave a long sigh Ash said to her:

“Princess. Look up at the ceiling.”

“-Huh?”

Silvia’s eyes widened. There was a volcano like hole in the middle of the ceiling and the night sky could be seen from within. Before they had entered the mausoleum… Eco had described this dark sky as a ‘bad feeling’.

On a clear night there would have been moonlight shining through that hole to create a dreamy situation.

“Grrrrr...”

Lancelot suddenly lifted its neck and gave a warning growl.

It was staring intensely at the hole above.

“What’s it. Lancelot?”

Just when Silvia asked in surprised-

“We meet again. Shounen.” <ref>Shounen-Teenage boy.</ref>

A guy’s voice could be heard from above. A tall and thin person stood at the edge of the hole.

“You’re... Milgauss!”

Ash's sudden gasp could even be felt by Silvia.

Lancelot maneuvered so that his horn's light illuminated the scene above.

A lone guy wearing a mask appeared pale white in color under the light. Silvia had also read the report book and immediately knew who he was.

“The ruffian who was called Milgauss! Who knew that I would meet you here! I, under the name of Lautreamont’s Royal Knight’s family, will punish you in the name of god!”

Even while facing Silvia, who was excited and indignant, Milgauss only replied with a laugh.

“Hmph... Come on… Even Veronica Lautreamont, who was a top warrior, wasn't even chosen to be a breeder... And yet a coward like you was chosen.”

“What... Did you say?”

The way Milgauss speaks, as if he knew a lot of her background in formations, made Silvia felt uneasy.

“Are you alright. Princess?”

Ash asked from behind.

“N-No... Nothing.”

Silvia’s mind was already in a mess even when she said so.

''-What is this feeling? That guy called Milgauss... Even though this is the first time I met him, but, he felt familiar. Why would I feel this way?''

“Princess? You... Are crying?”

“Huh!?”

Ash’s words woke her up.

She had only just found out that her tears already started falling.

“This... Why would I...?”

Even Silvia didn’t know why she cried. But, if she even glances at Milgaus, her heart will tighten.

Milgauss suddenly gave a smile.

A smile of a father who cares about his child. A peaceful and caring smile.

“You had grown… Sylvie.”

“Wha-!”

Silvia felt a cold chill.

No matter how wide is the world… The only ones who would call her by her pet name will be family members. Not only that… His suddenly gentle voice had caused her to recall forgotten memories.

''-Onii-sama! Julius onii-sama!''

''-Haha, Silvia, you pampered child.''

''-It’s because... Onii-sama kept on talking to Glenn-dono and had forgotten about me!''

Her childhood memories resurfaced in her mind.

How is this possible.

-‘Dragon Slayer’.

Brother Julius had committed such a serious offense and had been punished. Silvia was only five during that time.

In Lautreamont Knight Country… Killing a dragon is the utmost offense. Even if it was the prince of the Knight’s royal family… He will still be punished. To make it worse… The dragon that Julius killed was his pal… Maestro Mordred.

Julius was already dead.

But... Milgauss had the same feel as Julius with every movement he made.

At this moment Lancelot had again given a warning growl. As if it was trying to tell Silvia to raise her guard.

“Could it be...!”

Silvia had also felt that something was very wrong.

The ground was slightly shaking.

''-Something was hidden in the ground!''

“Kuku... Up to what extent Lancelot can fight is something worth seeing. Or is it that… The guy over there will come out with some weird tactics?”

“Urgh...”

Ash kept silent.

Eco had remained silent and had yet to wake up. Silvia also couldn’t predict the amount of time needed for Eco to create a new Ark.

Milgauss, as if he saw through Ash’s Achilles heel, gave an expression of ridicule.

“But, judging by Avalon’s Princess behavior, I believe that you won’t be able to come up with anything unusual. No?”

“Avalon’s Princess? Why would you also know about-” Ash was obviously shaken.

''Avalon- This word was suspected to originate from the ancient language.'' Silvia doesn’t know what that means. ''Anyway… what’s this about a princess?''

''-No... This isn't the time to worry about those things...''

Silvia cleared her mind and focused on the current situation.

“Let me tell you, the dragons buried in this mausoleum were but young dragons! Even after they became Necromancia… They are still no match for my Lancelot!”

Silvia declared but Milgauss was not even bothered by it.

“Is it so? I had sent most of them to the training campsite. Those Necromancias that you had beaten were small fries. Also… The dragons buried here were Maestros in their past life.”

As if to answer Milgauss's words… The ground split into two. The enormously loud sound was echoing around the cave while the large tombstone followed it by falling to the ground.

A huge object could be seen appearing from beneath.

“Roarrrrr...!”

A roar, as if it had arisen from hell, followed and their fight with Lancelot had started.

Strong wing. Thick jaws and sharps horns…

Apart from their dark skin… They have the looks of a maestro.

“Kuku... Let me tell you! Its name is Nuada!”

Upon hearing this… Silvia was stunned.

“A tragedy that every citizen of the Knight Country knew. You should had heard about it before, right? It is the dragon who loves its master and chose to commit suicide-”

===Part 24===
“Have you gotten everything that I had said, Navi?”

Eco was having a conversation in the dragon workshop.

Navi, as usual, was wearing an evening dress while sitting on an antique chair.

“The Ark that suits his current condition most…? Hehe. This is interesting.”

Her mature version of Eco’s look was as beautiful as usual. Perhaps it was because of this… Eco hated this woman very much. Even after saying that to herself… Right now she must focus on the main situation.

“I don’t have much time. Can you replace my job for the restructuring process?”

“Ara. Why do you even need my help?”

Navi impishly smiled.

“Do I even have a choice! Even though I don’t like it... You are still more knowledgeable than me... And I expect that you could come out with a better result compared to me."

“Your judgment is correct. We are like two faces on a coin. If you are the person who lives in the outer world then I am the person who lives in the inner world. Of course I will help you.”

“So you have agreed to help me?”

“As long as you promise me one thing.”

“Promise? What do you want me to do?”

“You must promise me that, one day, you will present an Ark to Ash Blake. It must not be a mimic but a top rate piece of work that you had created.”

“W-What are you talking about! How could I agree to this!”

“Ara. Have you already given up before you even challenged it?”

“B-Because... To present the Ark to him also means…”

Navi smiled.

“That’s right. You are going to give him your everything.”

“How could I…”

Eco was speechless. Her whole body was hot as if it was burning. To give her everything to Ash, just by thinking about it, Eco was already very embarrassed about it.

“Are you willing to agree to my condition? Or not?”

“Urgh...”

Navi’s provocation made her mad but… It takes time to do the review. Since there were more than a thousand Ark blueprints left by her ancestral legacy…

To do the review is to search amongst all the various parts, or component blueprints, and identify those that suit Ash the most.

She will be fine, if just that were so, but… There was this ‘not to burden Ash’s body’ rule this time.

This is much more difficult than the ‘ice element’ that Ask asked for during the church terrorist incident.

Strictly speaking. Eco didn’t even know if there was even one Ark that doesn’t overly burden the person wearing it. So this problem had nothing to do with time and she can only rely on Navi’s knowledge.

“...Alright. I promise.”

After Eco had made her mental preparations… Navi smiled and the place suddenly was filled with soothing bright lights.

At the same time, there were many blueprints moving about Navi’s field of view. Those were the various Ark designs that the dragons, over the ages, left behind.

Navi, with her glossy and watery lips, begins to sing out the name of each part of the new Ark-

''“Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes, Espolón.”''

Eco was speechless.

A few thousands of those blueprints were spinning around on Navi’s head. Those that were determined as unnecessary disappear immediately and whats left over are the ones that are important.

“W-What a fast searching speed...” Eco was stunned…

At that moment all the blueprints, that were flying around Navi’s head, vanished.

The lights that filled the dragon workshop had also disappeared. Navi slowly stood up from the chair and walked towards Eco.

“W-What is it...?’

Navi was too beautiful to look at and she unconsciously took a step backwards. Navi playfully smiled and placed her palm on Eco’s head.

“This is...!”

Eco felt a cold chill. An enormous amount of information entered her brain from Navi’s palm. But half way through the process… It was interrupted.

“W-Why?”

“...He was facing great danger.”

Navi was looking at the three dimension projected screen in mid-air with a serious expression.

“Then be quick!” Eco cried.

“It seems that we must act quickly.”

Navi again placed her palm on Eco’s head and retransferred the information.

===Part 25===
“Is it really Nuada…!”

Ash shouted but he was immediately back to his calm self.

That's right! The problem is not whether it is Nuada or not. The main point is; This Necromancia is a Maestro.

Also, the Necromancia revived from the ground was not only Nuada alone. The tombstones around also fell to the ground one by one. A total of nine Asia type Necromancia crawled out from the ground.

“Princess. It is better that we retreat for the time being-”

After giving a glance at the passage behind, Ash calmly made the suggestion.

The escape path was not yet blocked by the enemies. To fight in this open space, the enemies will surely attack from all directions. It will be a tough battle even though Lancelot is strong.

But if they retreat to the narrow passage, the enemies will be forced to come at them in a line. They may have a chance in winning like this.

“No!” Silvia stubbornly disagreed with retreat.

She was so angry that her hands, while holding the reins, were trembling.

“Milgauss… Do you know what you had done! You… You've stained Nuada’s spirit, and that you should never have done!”

“P-Princess…?”

Ash was at a loss when he looked at Silvia being angry.

Silvia had obviously believed what Milgauss had said. She probably had the experience of crying after hearing Nuada’s story in her childhood.

At this moment Lucca, who had remained silent the whole time, cried out.

“I also… Will never forgive that person!”

It is easy to understand how she felt. Because Gawain had followed in Nuada’s footsteps and had disappeared for Lucca's sake. Her emotional reaction was probably founded on this.

Ash was worried about the current situation.

“Young dragon Nuada! I swear, in the name of the Lautreamont Royal Knight's Family, I will defeat you! This is the only thing that I can do for you!”

In reply, to Silvia’s sworn oath, Lancelot roared with a high pitch and immediately attacked Nuada. It stood on its hind legs and piled on attacks with its front. Upon seeing this Nuada also stood up and defended with its front legs.

The two ferocious dragon began a battle between titans.

All of a sudden… Nuada opened its lower jaw and blew out some black gas. It was almost a zero range, point blank, attack…

“Urgh…!”

Ash felt something was wrong and he hugged Eco tightly to protect her. He was angry at his useless self who couldn’t do anything.

Lancelot also remained strong. Just before Nuada’s breath attack exploded it triggered its own defensive magic.

-The sound of explosions kept shaking their ears.

The explosions were reflected back to Nuada, who was too close to the defensive magic, and immediately more explosions were heard. Lancelot's defensive magic was extremely sturdy and Ash only felt a slight vibration.

“Great…!”

Right until now… Ash had kept his eyes open. Half of Nuada’s head had disappeared and its grey colored brain could be seen. Even though it seems to be defeated it is still a Necromancia. The organs that were destroyed were immediately regenerated and soon it was back to its original state.

Lancelot’s heroic roar and Nuada’s creepy scream shook the air around them.

Just when the two resumed fighting, with all their strength, there was a groan coming from Ash’s back.

“Eek… Stop!”

“Lucca?”

Lucca, who was sitting on Lancelot’s tail, was dragged off by another Asia type Necromancia. Its tentacles can be seen clinging to Lucca’s body.

Lucca who was hanging upside down was struggling both in pain and tears.

“D-Don’t… Touch anyplace weird…!”

Just like tempting ants with sugar a large group of Asia type Necromancias were approaching Lucca. Their tentacles were already tearing off Lucca’s dragsuit.

The iron made gloves and knee guards was forcefully pulled off and fell to the ground. The leather belt was tore into pieces and even her skirt was torn off.

“Damn…!”

The moment Ash shouted, taking advantage of Ash focusing his attention on Lucca, a tentacle attacked. It had already surrounded Eco’s waist and was so strong that Ash quickly lost-out to it in terms of strength.

“Eco…!!”

Just like Lucca, Eco was now hanging in mid-air. Eco had lost consciousness earlier and couldn’t even struggle like Lucca.

Silvia was having trouble just by controlling Lancelot. She didn’t have the time to worry about the danger that Eco and Lucca were facing.

Ash clenched his teeth and leaped off Lancelot’s back. Even though he knew this was like committing suicide… He still couldn’t control this sudden impulse.

“Let your dirty paws go!…”

Ash picked up a stone and threw at the Asia type Necromancia.

But throwing stones at dragon is like throwing stones at the moon. It easily bounced off from the black skin.

“Urgh…”

To make it worse… Ash’s body was in pain.

Even though he was not attacked his body was still giving him warnings.

“R-Right now out of all times…!”

After Ash cursed, he kneeled on one side of his knees.

He was sweating cold sweat.

His head, organs and joints were shrieking in tremendous agony. He felt like rolling up and screaming in pain. ''But, I mustn't… I mustn’t be defeated in a place like this-!''

Ash, who's eyes filled with sweat, saw Eco being dragged away right in front of him.

“Ecoooooo!”

Ash screams in desperation.

At that moment… Eco, who was nearly sucked into the Necromancia’s body, opened her eyes.

“W-What? What's this situation!”

After she saw Ash was on the ground in a ball like posture, Eco looked around at her surrounding.

“Eco! Give me the Ark!”

“Hmph! Without me… You are useless!”

Eco can be seen smiling happily-

And she only shouted the only word of that long spell:

''“Espolón!”''

===Part 26===
Milgauss, who was standing at the top of the hill watching the fight, had seen it all.

The cave was filled with white lights.

At that moment, the Holy Ark emerged in the middle of the lights and was on Ash’s body. The new Ark is a striking white colored armour with red stripes. A red striped white Ark!

Ash is now an Ark-Dragner.

This armour was stronger than what Milgauss saw at Ansarivan. This increases his interest in it.

The areas in which it became stronger were in defense and not offense.

“Hmph. Using the old remains and combining them into an emergency armour? Wouldn’t expect less from the Avalon’s Princess…”

''Anya’s report had stated that Ash suffered serious injuries. This armour should be the best fit for him.''

“Back to the topic…”

Milgauss was surprised that Eco completed the spell with only a word. Perhaps she had finished the rest in the dragon workshop.

Because Eco wanted to create the Ark at the same time she woke up so she had finished most of the spell before she came back.

If that’s not the case… Eco would be eaten by the Necromancia before she can even manage to finish naming all the parts of the Ark. Milgauss wanted to praise this enemy.

“As I thought… Is it fate that we have to continue the fight from the past generations? Kuku… There is nothing bad about it and yet also nothing good about it.”

Milgauss frightfully laughs.

He was fully immersed in his laughter… A laughter that came out from the very depths of his throat.

===Part 27===
The moment he donned the Ark… Ash stood up straight.

The unbearable pain had disappeared and it felt like he had grown wings.

The thickness of the Ark felt thicker than the first two Arks and it looked more like a ball overall. He felt safe just by wearing it.

But now is not the time to enjoy that safe feeling.

Ash locked on to the Necromancia in front of him and jumped towards it.

He first punched the Necromancia that had captured Eco with his Manoplas.

Next… He kicked the monster that captured Lucca with his Escarpes.

The massive amount of magic, contained in the red striped white Ark, exploded and the two dragons crumbled into ash and effectively disappeared..

“Ouch-!”

Ash groaned.

Even though the Ark had the effect of absorbing most of the repulsive force. It's still reckless for him to engage in hand to hand combat with Necromancia.

The pain in his bones made him struggle. It also seems that the Ark couldn’t totally suppress his pain. But he mustn’t back down in this situation.

“Kyaaaa!”

The moment the tentacles disappeared… Eco and Lucca fell from mid-air.

Ash immediately slide towards the bottom of the two. He had managed to secure both of them right before they impacted on the ground… The entire process spanned less than two seconds.

“Are both of you alright?”

Ash helped them to stand up. Lucca instantly nodded her head in reply but Eco on the other hand was quite verbally angry...

“What the hell is wrong with you! That Ark only strengthens the ‘defense’! It is not for you to use it for punching and kicking!”

“S-Sorry...”

Ash initially was intimidated by Eco and apologized. But without delay he changed his mind:

“Now is not the time to worry about those things. No? Of course I’m trying to save you!”

But the current situation doesn’t allow Ash to explain anymore than that.

“…Here it comes.”

Ash was dragged back into reality by Lucca’s warning and immediately put up a fighting posture.

The fight between Lancelot and Nuada was still in a stalemate. On the other hand… The remaining seven Asia type Necromancias were still trying to attack the trio. The stench of the rotting smell had suddenly became stronger.

Eco angrily ordered.

“This Ark was not made so you can fool around with it! Use the Ark Weapon immediately!”

“Understood!”

Ash focused his mind and attention to the Ark.

The information regarding the Ark Weapon, that came together with the Ark, was sent into his mind.

After receiving that information Ash smiled.

“Appear… The invincible magic shield!”

There was a flash followed together with the spell.

The space in front of Ash started to bend and there was a crack. The, as yet unknown, Ark Weapon appeared slowly from the crack.

''“Aegis!”'' <ref>A shield from the Greek mythology.</ref>

The same time Ash shouted its name… The Aegis shields appeared.

Aegis’s outside front looked like a dragon’s head. There were all together five units that made up this shield. All of the five units were flying around under Ash’s command. When they had surrounded the Asia type Necromancias… The shields then projected colorful lights.

These units were not normal shields. They all have the characteristics of a magic cannon.

The continuous lights that were attacking the Asia type Necromancias were like spider webs.

Not only that… There were some unexpected weird changes on the Necromancia that were directly struck by the lights. In a very short time, they had become stones .

Aegis was not releasing the usual degree of attacking type magic.

That was a high level magic that, upon coming into contact with the light, turned living things into stone . Even though it is from one of the dangerous areas of magic, named in the list of banned spells by the Knight Country, now is not the time to act like a good model citizen.

In just a few seconds time all seven Necromancias had turned into stones. Ash breathed a sigh relief and withdrew Aegis’s magic.

“Thank you, Eco.”

“N-Nothing… And I’m not even doing this for you.”

Eco turned her face aside but her face was definitely blushing. Ash gave a dry smile but now is still not the time to lower their guard.

Anyway... Silvia was piloting Lancelot with all her skill as they fought Nuada one on one. It was a situation where both of their front legs were interlocked somewhat like in a wrestling match. For attacks each of them use magic and tail swipes for advantage.

“Princess! I’ll be there to help you in a short moment!”

Ash who was prepared to help had met a blank wall.

“I don’t need any help! Go and capture Milgauss! Lancelot and I will calm down Nuada’s spirit.”

Silvia’s talk made Ash speechless.

Silvia was really angry. Even so… she still hasn’t lost her cool. She had sworn to defeat Nuada in the name of the Royal Knight’s Family and perhaps she truly thought that this is her mission.

“Roger that! Princess I’ll leave it in your hands!”

After Ash shouted back to Silvia he started running.

Right in front of him was Nuada’s tombstone. The tip of the slanting winged cross was pointing at the hole of the ceiling. Milgauss was still standing at the side of the hole looking down.

Ash jumped towards the sky along the side of the winged cross and stepped on the middle of it, gave himself a hop, landing on the tip of the wing and continued to jump up from there. With the aid of the Ark… Ash accomplished a jump that a normal human can’t do.

His body passed up and through the hole of the ceiling.

The misty air of the inner part of the cave had suddenly become replaced by the fresh and cool nighttime air.

However… The air is very cold and it doesn’t seem like summer anymore.

At the top of the nearby hills there are many stubs of bare rock.

Luckily, although the surroundings are dark, the Ark produces a dim light. Also, since he had been in the dark cave for a long time, his eyes are already used to the darkness.

“Milgauss!”

Ash started a fight with Milgauss. Although Eco was mad about it he still chose to use hand to hand combat which is the easiest.

He remembered the time when he met Milgauss for the first time in the forest.

Ash didn’t even have the ability to fight back during that time. Because, before he managed to land a hit on Milgauss, Ash was ambushed by Milgauss's underling. He was nearly killed by that girl.

But the situation right now is different. Ash was protected by Eco’s Ark and he had decided to KO his opponent in one hit.

But-

With only his left hand Milgauss, had blocked Ash’s right punch. He had focused all his strength in that punch too.

“How is this possible…?”

“Hmph. Is the strength of an Ark-Dragner just like this?”

“Urgh…”

He can’t move his right hand at all. It is similar to being clenched by a pair of pliers.

“This proves that you are just a fake.”

Milgauss tone was as cold as iron.

There was a gigantic sword in his right hand.

“Wha…!”

Ash widened his eyes in disbelief. It is as if the sword was made out of darkness. The large bright-dragon-crystals mounted on the hilt definitely proved it was not an ordinary sword.

“A fake like you has no right to touch me.”

-A flash from the black sword.

There is a sudden black gust. Ash, whose right hand is now handicapped, had nowhere to run to. He could only use the Manoplas on his left hand to protect himself.

As if a big hammer was hitting his head, the impact passed through his body in a short moment. The impact was so strong that even the Ark couldn’t endure it fully.

''“*Cough...*”''

“Where is your big talk just now?”

Milgauss let go of Ash’s right hand and then wielded the gigantic sword with both hands.

Then then lifted the sword brought it down all in one motion.

“Guak!”

The dark metal blade sunk into his abdomen. In that short moment… Ash felt that his waist was going to be chopped in two. Then the Ark made a ''‘click’'' sound. Even the Ark was groaning…

''“-Aegis!”''

Obviously, Milgauss was not an opponent for him to fight with in hand to hand combat. So Ash resummoned Aegis. The five units split out immediately and attacked Milgauss. As long as a light managed to hit him, he will then turn into a stone.

“Too slow!”

But Milgauss, with extraordinary nimble moves, avoided all the light rays. Then he swung the black sword at a lightning speed.

The units were being attacked and destroyed by a tornado-like slash. One after another they disappeared.

“What is he actually made of…!”

After Ash groaned, he was on his knees. The amount of magic collected in the Ark has a limit and Ash felt that the armour was slowly disappearing.

After Milgauss dealt with the five units his target had shifted once again to Ash. He gave Ash a kick without any delay. Even with the protection of the Ark, the impact was still transmitted into his abdomen.

''“*-Cough!*”''

Ash was out of breathe and was kicked around like a puppet. He finally landed hard, with his back facing the rocks.

Blood started flowing out from his mouth…

“Ku…”

Ash spit out saliva with blood in it and immediately hid behind the rock. The size of the rock is just enough to keep him hidden.

“Hmph. Are you trying to hide to drag out the time?”

Ash remained silent. He was sitting at the back of the rock waiting for a good moment. His body was in a mess and he probably had only one more chance…

''-Ssss, ssss…''

Milgauss was not buying any of his tricks and marched right towards Ash.

“Anything wrong right there? Can’t you use Aegis?”

''Milgauss was probably laughing his ass off right now''. Ash answered to himself while thinking of his disgusting face:

“Too bad. I’m out of magic…”

“Luck is not on your side today, shounen.”

Followed by a shout, there was an impact on the rock behind Ash.

===Part 28===
“Shoo. Shoo…!”

With the aid of the Ark, Ash easily jumped out through the ceiling’s hole but Eco wasn’t that lucky. She left Lancelot who was in a brutal fight with Nuada and climbed the huge winged cross.

“W-Wait for me…!”

Looking downwards, she saw Lucca was trying her best to cling onto the winged cross.

“Tsk… Just don’t blame me if you fall.”

Eco stepped on the wing of the winged cross without being bothered by Lucca. If she is not careful––she will definitely fall head down. Her current height was about ten meters. Although, she was frightened by it, she still needed to move forward.

Even though she felt guilty, about leaving Lucca, Eco still wanted to rush to Ash’s side as soon as possible.

The moment Eco saw the guy called Milgauss, she felt disgusted.

She remembered the nightmare that made her wet her bed.

Eco was attacked by a scary dragon in her dream.

It had nine eyes, numerous tentacles and was far scarier than a Necromancia…

The unbelievable thing was, the moment she saw Milgauss, the first thing that came into her mind was that dragon. It will be fine if she was just worrying too much… But just in case Eco’s instinct was right… Then Milgauss is a dangerous being. Eco couldn’t guarantee that the Ark has enough power to go against him.

Ash’s body condition also worried her.

Ash was, even in the beginning, a heavily injured patient. Logically speaking he should rest for a month, but…

But, even after she arrived at the location, apart from making the (mimic) Ark, there was nothing else she could do. It will not be surprising that she will be a burden.

Even so… Eco still couldn’t calm down her worrisome emotions and chose to climb the winged cross.

After some effort Eco finally arrived at the ceiling’s hole. She then took a look up, outside under the cloudy night sky.

“-Huh…?”

Eco had seen it all in that short moment.

Milgauss was holding a gigantic sword up high, looking like it had merged together with the night sky, and was going split open a rock.

Eco’s instinct told her that Ash was hiding behind the rock.

In an direct combat Ash was definitely out of his league. H was now going to be sliced open together with the rock by Milgauss…!

“Ash!”

Eco called out his name in desperation.

===Part 29===
''This blow will definitely crush the rock and Ash into pieces.'' Milgauss, who thought that he had a sure win, split open the rock in front of him.

The rock scattered into tiny fragments and powder.

A thick dust spread all over and blocked his sight.

After the explosion like power cooled down…

“What…?”

Milgauss remained in the exact posture of his finishing the blow.

After most of the dust falls, what was in front of Milgauss was not Ash’s body.

A unit in mid-air was pinning on to Milgauss.

A light was released from the front of the unit.

“Urgh…!”

Milgauss immediately lifted his left hand to block the light and also slashed the unit with his sword in his right hand. Although Aegis was reduced to light particles, and disappeared, its effect was still ongoing. Milgauss, who felt something was wrong, looked at his own body and saw his left arm starting to turn into stone.

“-Milgauss!”

Ash suddenly came down from the sky.

He had used the stone fragments as a screen and used an Aegis unit as a stepping stone to jump…

There was no longer an Ark on Ash. He probably used all his magic to summon the two units.

…Wait… He still has his Manoplas on his right hand!

“What an eyesore!”

Milgauss swung the black sword with only his right hand, but he had only manage to destroy the unit that Ash was stepping on.

“Uwooooo!”

Ash, who was experiencing free fall, uses the momentum and swings a punch with the Manoplas.

Milgauss immediately put up a defensive posture, with the huge sword above his head, but he still couldn’t avoid the powerful impact.

“Urgh…!’

Milgauss was knocked off together with his sword.

===Part 30===
“Huff, puff… How is this punch?”

At the same time Ash landed, his Manoplas disappeared. He next felt a terrible pain, as if his flesh was being sliced off.

But now is not the time for him to show his weak side. Even though Milgauss fell down hard on the ground, he still remains conscious. Ash could only try to bear with his pain.

“Hehe… Weren’t you out of magic?”

Milgauss, using the gigantic sword as a walking stick to support himself, slowly stood up. His left arm was hanging freely and lifelessly. It had been converted to stone.

“I didn’t say that I couldn’t summon Aegis again. It’s you who had been fooled. You had lost.”

“Hmph. I thought you were an idiot who only had strength. So it seems that you can actually do some scheming? But this can only be called as a trick and its still to much to call it a scheme."

After Milgauss made a haughty smile he seemed to remember something… He then pulled off his left arm and threw it to Ash.

“Wha…!”

Ash was staring at the left arm that landed on the ground.

“…Prosthetic arm?”

“That’s right. This is a creation of the Empire’s proud mechanical engineering.”

Ash was clenching his teeth. Ash is not only just a normal human without the protection of the Ark… He is also a seriously injured patient.

On the opposing side, Milgauss had only lost a prosthetic arm.

He was in a fix.

But- Just when Ash lost hope, there was a heroic voice coming from behind him.

“Listen carefully, Milgauss! I Silvia Lautreamont and Lancelot, have altogether defeated the young dragon Nuada’s spirit!”

Ash turned around to have a look and cheered happily.

“Princess! Lancelot!”

Nuada’s head was still in Lancelot’s mouth when it landed in between Ash and Milgauss. The only word that could describe its condition was 'terrible'. Its white skin had become dirty and full of blood.

Although injured… Lancelot’s blue eyes still looked as if they were full of spirit. Apart from Silvia, who was riding on its back, Eco and Lucca were also there.

Lancelot gave a menacing growl, while lowering down its neck, and placed Nuada’s head in front of Milgauss.

As if it wants Milgauss to apologize…

After Nuada’s severed head stared at Milgauss for a short moment, it turned into ashes. In the blink of an eye they were blown off by the nights breeze.

After Silvia witnessed the ashes being carried away by the wind she focused her attention back to Milgauss.

“…Princess?”

Ash knew something was wrong with her.

In this situation, winning was already in the grasp of their hand. No matter how strong Milgauss is, he will still face trouble when he is going against Silvia.

Logically speaking, Silvia should also know about this but she continued to stand still without any reasons.

“Hmph… It seems that I must change my opinion towards the Fourth Princess. I’ll withdraw for today.”

Milgauss placed the gigantic sword on his shoulder and slowly retreated.

“But the training campsite had already become a battle field. Just how many of them could survive? I would love to know…” Milgauss provoked.

After that, he jumped out into the night.

Surprisingly… He had jumped off the cliff.

Even so, from his previous battle experience with Milgauss, Ash knew that he is not just some average ordinary guy. He should have survived the fall.

And he will be back…

Just as if she had calculated the time, for Milgauss to withdraw, Silvia spoke:

“Thanks a lot, Lancelot. You may take your rest.”

Lancelot immediately bent its knees and lay down and, after closing its eyes, started to snore gently.

Silvia first climbed off its back then helped Eco and Lucca down from Lancelot.

“Is Lancelot alright?”

Ash worriedly looked at the sleeping Lancelot.

“Rest assured, it doesn’t have any vital injuries. It's just that… It has run out of magic. We only had the strength left to frighten Milgauss just now."

Ash only now knew why Silvia would let him escape. Because she didn’t even have the ability left to order him around. Back to the topic, if it was not because of Silvia’s and Lancelot’s intimidation, Ash would have died under Milgauss sword.

“And also, maybe… That guy…”

Silvia’s troubled looks made Ash curious.

“Princess?”

“N-Nothing. Just pretend that I didn’t say anything!”

Silvia, panicky, waved Ash off which in turns worried him further.

At this instant, Lucca said. “The training campsite is…”

Eco was also looking at the direction of the campsite dumbstruck.

“How come…!”

By following their sight… Ash also turned speechless.

Just like Milgauss declared, the training campsite had become a battlefield. The Necromancia's attack had yet to be stopped.

There were numerous sounds of explosions and the lights from the magic were flashing here and there. Although the campsite was safe, the dragon house beside was on fire and there were black smokes all over the night sky.

''Is everyone still alright? What about Rebecca? Max? And the rest? The instructors? The staffs for the training campsite? The girls who were in charge of the food service?''

“Damn… Even when we wanted to help them…”

Ash felt that he was filled with desperation.

''Apart from standing on the hills and looking from afar… We couldn’t even do a thing-''

As if to cheer him up, Lucca pulled Ash’s sleeves.

“I had a favor… To ask from you.”

As if she had made up her mind, Lucca was staring at Ash. Ash was troubled by it because her face was too close to his.

“W-What is it?”

Her Yōsei eyes were clear and shining even under the night sky.

Her eyes, full of determination, caused Ash to return her stare.

“Please… Come with me.”

“Why?”

“For Gawain and me… You had wagered your life for us. Just to let us feel the same like old times… If you are together with me… I think I could muster up some courage.”

“Could it be that you know a way to save everyone?”

Lucca extended her hand towards Ash.

“I want to save them… No, I must save them.”

Ash held Lucca’s palm as if he was going to be sucked in by the determination in her eyes.

Her body temperature was transmitted to Ash through her tiny leaf size like palm.

“Alright. I believe in you.”

After Ash answered with a steady tone Lucca smiled in embarrassment.

===Part 31===
Under the silent eyes of both Silvia and Eco Lucca and Ash move towards the edge of the cliff… Which was also the place where Milgauss jumped off from.

''Shoo… Shoo…'' The sounds of the winds pass through the darkness down below.

“Lucca…? What do you intend to do?”

Ash took a peek at Lucca’s face whilst being frightened.

“Jump down… From here.”

“J-Jump down-?”

Lucca didn’t answer. She just hurdled herself into Ash’s arms. Behind them there were immediate sounds of disparagement coming from both Silvia and Eco. There wasn't any time to worry about it.

Lucca placed her hands around Ash and hugged him as if she was hurting him on purpose. Although his organs were screaming in pain Ash still managed to bear with it. If he groaned in pain at this moment he will disappoint Lucca.

''Even so, what was Lucca actually thinking…?''

“We are going to jump.”

When her voice reaches Ash… He is already in mid-air.

Just like what she said, Lucca jumped down from the cliff.

And she was falling together with Ash-

The feeling of floating in mid-air only lasted for a second… Then both of them, gathering speed, fell in a straight line.

“Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Whilst listening to the sound of the winds buzzing past his ear, Ash was swallowed into the dark abyss. He thought that he heard Eco’s and Silvia’s screams, for a short moment from far above, but the voices were soon lost.

===Part 32===
They kept on falling.

Ash and Lucca were hugging each other when they fall towards the bottom of the cliff.

Thinking back carefully… The same thing happened when Eco was born. It seems that he was fated for such things…

Suddenly he seemed to hear Lucca’s voice, somewhat obscured by the sound of the wind.

She seemed to be speaking to herself while huddling to Ash.

“Sorry… Gawain. I’ll never again be afraid of you.”

''Aah… So that's it.''

Ash finally understands Lucca’s determination. Just like Gawain's overprotection of Lucca, which had caused itself cut off its Astral, this time Lucca wagered her own life.

After Lucca hugged Ash tighter, she shouted loudly:

“Please accept me once more, Gawain!”

It is hard to believe that such a loud voice would come from such a petite girl. Her voice sounded so strong that it was enough to pierce through the night.

There was a glaring light coming from Lucca suddenly.

The golden rays started to surround her body.

“Could this be… Astral?”

Ash, who was still falling with Lucca, was stunned. He couldn’t believe that he could see Astral with mortal eyes.

“Quick… Suck them in Gawain! Taken my Astral… No, absorb me! You are my… Pal!”

The shout that she put her full effort in was echoing in the night.

Just before the voice disappeared-

There was an explosion around the hills near Willing Mausoleum. Gawain emerged from it while releasing a magic that brightened the night sky.

Ash's gaze was attracted to Gawain’s movement. With the Astral flow resumed he had totally recovered.

After Gawain gave a roar, that a young dragon couldn’t possible make, it carefully catches both Lucca and Ash with its back.

===Part 33===
“I have… Another request.”

“I’ll do anything, as long as it is in my range of ability.”

Ash replied loudly. Their priority is to save the students and Ash is willing to suffer any kind of pain for it. Lucca worriedly stated her request in a low voice.

“…I’m going to challenge the Dragon Riding Dance. So… I hoped you could hold on to me tightly.”

“No problem!”

Ash recalled what Navi had said.

That is the Eckbald’s traditional dance.

Because of Lucca’s failure while practicing the dance it had caused her to have problems when facing Gawain.

Ash was unable to imagine what kind of a dance is that, but he was mentally prepared.

Now he could only place his hopes on Lucca’s Dragon Riding Dance.

Ash hugged Lucca’s waist tightly with both of his hands.

“Is this alright?”

“…Tighter.”

“How about this?”

“Tighter.”

“Urgh…What about this?”

Lucca answered by nodding.

Suddenly, there was a clear metallic sound coming from Lucca’s leg. Her dragsuit was modified with standard spurs. Gawain received the signal, lifted its head high, roared and then rushed up into the sky.

===Part 34===
The Ark had disappeared after Rebecca annihilate a group of Strada type Necromancia with her magic spear, Gáe Bolg.

Rebecca reluctantly sighed. Cú Chulainn's magic was almost used up and could no longer maintain its flight. It landed beside the lake.

“Should we end it here-”

The training campsite, that acted as a temporary battle headquarters, was still fine, but the dragon house nearby was being swallowed by a great fire.

Both parties were still fighting by the lakeside.

Just like Cú Chulainn all the dragons had already used up their magic and many of the were fighting using only hand to hand combat in its true and brutal form.

Because their opponents were Necromancias they had extraordinary endurance. Every time they receive a fatal blow, they still continue to regenerate and stand back up.

This batch of students had been performing well in this fight and they were worthy to become the selected participants of this training camp.

But there was no end to the amount of enemies. Everyone was wondering how many dragons had been buried at the mausaleum while reinforcements for the enemy just kept on arriving.

Apart from that, Rebecca could no longer summon the power of an Ark-Dragner. This fact alone had lowered the students fighting moral.

“We don’t have any more choices left. Should we just give up on the training campsite… And retreat?”

Rebecca made the bitter decision. Everyone would be devastated to lose such a great traditional facility. The training campsite, at Allonnes Lakeside, is also a place with long history.

But she must prioritize the students’ lives. If they give up right now they still have the chance to retreat in one piece. ''Once the retreating path had been blocked off by the Necromancias…'' Rebecca felt a cold chill just by thinking about it.

Currently: three students were heavily injured, fifteen were slightly injured and seven dragons were also injured. Although they had not yet suffered any fatalities yet… Still, if they continued to hold on… The situation will become irreversible.

Rebecca made up her mind. She took a deep breath and was about to order the students to retreat...

Just at this moment… A flying object shot passed in the sky.

From the bright silver track left behind by its excessive magic––that must be a Maestro.

“Is it Lancelot?”

No. The tracks left behind by in its dance were obviously not accomplished by any ordinary Maestro. It was as if it took the sky as its own drawing space and spread its wings boldly while flying…

“Could that be… Gawain?”

===Part 35===
''-What type of dragon riding is this? This is the first time in my whole life I saw Dragner control their dragon using this method…!''

Under the effect of the strong centrifugal force Ash nearly lost his consciousness.

He felt as if he was suffering from anemia. He was already facing trouble just holding on to Lucca.

If he had been careless even for one moment… He would most probably be facing a watery grave right now.

The Eckbald’s Dragon Riding Dance couldn’t be reasoned with human knowledge.

A sharp corner turn.

A strong centrifugal force that could even rattle the brain.

The ruffeling sounds of the wind rushing beside his ears.

Although he also faced groups of Strada type Necromancia along his way Gawain wasn't distracted by them, in the same way a lion is not bothered by ants, and it continued to fly on.

The Strada type Necromancia couldn’t keep up with Gawain’s speed and scattered like being blown off by a storm.

''-Is this really a… Dance?''

''If this is also considered a type of dance… How do we classify the flying method in the academy? This is totally at a different level! Obviously… There is too much of a difference…!''

''-Lucca is undoubtedly a genius!''

Ash finally knows the reason why Lucca was still selected for the training camp even after she had been absent for three months.

At the same time… He experienced personally the terrifying feeling of falling off in the midst of the Dragon Riding Dance. Just by thinking of it, Ash's entire body stiffened, knowing it was a miracle that Lucca's body remained intact even after she had fallen from Gawain during practice.

Also… Lucca was not flying blindly.

Ash realized that, onto the night sky, Gawain was tracing a magic pattern, all within a circle, with its tracks.

Not long after that, the huge magic diagram had been completed.

Thinking back… Navi had mentioned something before.

''-Once the Dragon riding dance had been completed, many effects of magic will be activated.''

Ash’s eyes widen.

“Isn’t this a ‘Seikoku’!”

That’s right! The image that Lucca and Gawain completed together is a ‘Seikoku’.

There was the head of a dragon in the middle of a circle and it looked unique. The diameter should be more than a hundred meters.

The moment the magic circle was completed Lucca shouted:

“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''!" <ref>From Sanskrit, means immortality</ref>

The magic circle started glowing, and then brightened into a glaring light.

===Part 36===
[[Image:SnRK V03 285.jpg|thumb|“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''."]]
All the students who were busy fighting by the lakeside were shocked by the sudden lights.

The huge magic circle- ‘Seikoku’ was hanging at a corner of the night sky.

“So you had succeeded… Lucca.”

Rebecca smiled in relief.

After being exposed to the strong glaring light the tough Necromancias had returned back to ashes one by one.

On the other hand, the students had recovered their energy as if they had been treated with healing magic.

Rebecca also felt that her body had become lighter and the gloom in her heart had departed. It's as if her desperation from before was only an illusion.

She now felt that she can still continue the battle.

Upon seeing all the Necromancia at the lakeside had been defeated, the student cheered in unison. Even the injured patients who were taking refuge back at the training campsite ran out to the lakeside and cheered.

Looking at Gawain, who was flying energetically through the night sky, Rebecca chuckled.

“Since the ancient times the Eckbalds, who were dragners, were called ‘Elfn Dancer’. The Lucca right now best fits the descriptions-”

"Elfn Dancer ~A.S.B 1365.6~"is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:55:58Z

John5dragons: /* Part 22 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once said, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound was earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently ate the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretched it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held those glass-like shoulders.

Not only did Eco not refuse, but she was also relieved and leaned her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warmth, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, it wasn't Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looks like Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its look was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she was back to her old-self who
didn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday was full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her. Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signified that the school had ended for the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, they only had classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who sneaked into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had rung, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face was like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lucca and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I have only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t tell me you have forgotten!"

"Huh... you've only eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:44:34Z

John5dragons: /* Part 12 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once said, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound was earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently ate the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretched it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held those glass-like shoulders.

Not only did Eco not refuse, but she was also relieved and leaned her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warmth, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, it wasn't Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looks like Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its look was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she was back to her old-self who
didn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday was full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her. Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signified that the school had ended for the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, they only had classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who sneaked into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had rung, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face was like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lucca and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:40:09Z

John5dragons: /* Part 11 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once said, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound was earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently ate the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretched it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held those glass-like shoulders.

Not only did Eco not refuse, but she was also relieved and leaned her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warmth, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, it wasn't Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looks like Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its look was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she was back to her old-self who
didn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday was full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her. Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:35:33Z

John5dragons: /* Part 9 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once said, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound was earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently ate the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretched it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held those glass-like shoulders.

Not only did Eco not refuse, but she was also relieved and leaned her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warmth, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, it wasn't Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looks like Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its look was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:31:15Z

John5dragons: /* Part 8 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once said, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound was earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently ate the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:28:52Z

John5dragons: /* Part 7 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:23:03Z

John5dragons: /* Part 6 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:21:35Z

John5dragons: /* Part 6 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the
housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:12:15Z

John5dragons: /* Part 17 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wets were completely dried. Eco who usually let Ash do the
housework alone had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lied
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened until this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her sense.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco still inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco jumped into conclusions... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' ''had knocked the door.

"......!"

Eco was as shown literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T17:11:08Z

John5dragons: /* Part 17 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wets were completely dried. Eco who usually let Ash do the
housework alone had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lied
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened until this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her sense.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco still inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco jumped into conclusions... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' ''had knocked the door.

"......!"

Eco was as shown literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You mustn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promise, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T16:56:14Z

John5dragons: /* Part 16 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wets were completely dried. Eco who usually let Ash do the
housework alone had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lied
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened until this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her sense.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco still inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco jumped into conclusions... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' ''had knocked the door.

"......!"

Eco was as shown literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lukka have no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You musn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my triumph card too."

"Triumph card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promised, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T16:51:17Z

John5dragons: /* Part 15 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wets were completely dried. Eco who usually let Ash do the
housework alone had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lied
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened until this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her sense.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco still inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco jumped into conclusions... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' ''had knocked the door.

"......!"

Eco was as shown literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s pair of
panties.

A white pair ofpanties with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged on the bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged on the bed- How could the student council president gives dirty talks!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of stories has long been rumored in Ash hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lukka have no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You musn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my triumph card too."

"Triumph card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promised, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2

2014-07-04T16:27:16Z

John5dragons: /* Part 3 */

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office.

Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door.

Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office. She was sitting on the couch comfortably drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea can be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rushed into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn’t I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent could be smelled. It was the
perfume that Rebecca loved to use.

After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this. But-

Upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This is the first time Ash saw Rebecca’s playful look. That cute look made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System is me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca, with a calm attitude placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was
getting closer to Ash’s ear.

Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shivered.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca’s beauty.

''Am I thinking too much?'' There is the feeling of Rebecca’s cheeks also turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, she may sound arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be another story. After all, she
is a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily
attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she doesn’t know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak.

Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug tightly Rebecca. This is the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca.

Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feels Rebecca's body temperature. ''Maybe summer uniforms also have its advantages...'' This is the first time Ash thinks so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office.

With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica.

Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia while rubbing her waist quickly climbed up. A while back, she slowly built up her royal dignity which made him give her a little
admiration. But after she had shown her useless side, Ash felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!"

Jessica rushed up from the ground and said to her.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca with a nonchalant look replied:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Aright, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened.

It seems that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case.

Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why do you not walk
in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I
hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Opposite of Silvia who humbly accepts the advice, Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the
student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate.
Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they
were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance had disappeared. Jessica who turn pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn’t even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place.

How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly
waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn’s neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur.

Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occured.

In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped.

After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings.

Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye.

The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students.

Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke.

The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusions were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the
advance class dormitory, the advance class students should have a way to calmly handle it.

However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion.

The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca’s room, but she was busy with some other stuff.

The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san’s room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca’s name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca’s problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the
stairs.

Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor.

The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory were generally three person bedrooms, it appeared
that she was living alone.

Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke.

In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door.

Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor.

Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room.

The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom.

To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca’s private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom.

In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before.

The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone.
Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw.

A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room.

The problem was, Lukka’s body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft
flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lukka were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lukka’s appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze.

At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up.

Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin.

She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales.

Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of big amethyst-like mysterious watery shining eyes.

Her skin was like white porcelain, which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco.

The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca one by one put out the flames in the incense burner and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by the burning of a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless.

The students outside had return to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid.

While looking at Lucca’s small ass, Ash became surprised.

The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lukka was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lukka nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lukka had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen.

Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks.

By looking at Lukka’s appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fits very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales.

Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high.

However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald.

Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday.

Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined.

At this moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?"

Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups.

Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they mustn’t complain about what she had specially made for them.

Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed.

However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea.

Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It is probably an item from her hometown.

The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded
a strong smell.

Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking can be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarrelling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier than before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was
unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t."

Lucca distress-fully answered Rebecca’s question.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll.

So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca’s place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we have yet to find solutions to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

The sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone.

He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food.

The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a
street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply.

Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone.

Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wets were completely dried. Eco who usually let Ash do the
housework alone had brought in the clothes on her own.

This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lied
down on the bed lazily. The air is full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable.

After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit is the ominous nightmare.

The nine fiercely frightening eyes.

The sticky tentacles that was all over.

Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear.

She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the
closet.

Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened until this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket.

After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her sense.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering
herself with.

It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just becomes a little timid because of that nightmare.

Having said that, Eco still inevitably still thinks that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn’t need to be afraid...

Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to
accompany each other.

In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco jumped into conclusions... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' ''had knocked the door.

"......!"

Eco was as shown literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where did that Eco ran to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain.

Then, Eco like a cannon ball rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after that impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground.

Because of the lightning speed Eco also hit into Ash's arms. The fell of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer wears cloth.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she breathes on his chest, Ash
became nervous.

For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complains do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she will do will
not be limited to this extent.

Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone with Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was
next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by?

Though Ash still does not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seems to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining.

The most surprising thing is that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that meant to be a praise, but still the work done
cannot be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do
the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you."

Ash cheekily smiles, while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once blurted, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it is rude to describe the sound with earth-shattering, but the way it sound could only
be sent out by a dragon.

Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down.

Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just
now, but Eco didn’t even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She can be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently eat the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explain the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretches it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I
wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream.

Ash wants to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her
shoulders from behind.

He then gently held that glass-like shoulders.

Not only Eco didn’t refuse, but she was also relieved and lean her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and
docile.

Under such warm, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, that's not a Necromancia."

Eco feebly shook her head.

"It true that the monster looked like a Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated
easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its looks was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that I shouldn’t have recognized that monster... but I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed.

At this time, what should I do?

While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thinking.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash and complain about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his
sister would sneak into his room.

Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights.

Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden.

Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked.

He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this is Ash’s plan.

However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near
impossible.

However, today’s Eco can’t be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he takes her as his sister, then there is no longer any problem. Even when she was naked but the room is still dark. If he didn’t
focus his thought on this, then this problem will be immediately solved.

After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor.

With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body
temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously build up is collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sits up.

Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves can still be seen. But now is not the time to feel nervous. It
was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct is now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it.

Until Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong things, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn’t meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed.

It seems that Ash had made a huge mistake. But having said that, since there she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten
rid of the nightmare.

At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick is back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of the discipline, Max of the accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of the general
affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today.

Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco is back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and
attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it.

Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which there is no need to attend meetings, but she is still the same old-elf who
doesn’t let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday is full of charm, but the lively Eco still best
suited her, Ash thought so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca with her sharp eyes looked at the faces around.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. The she right now could not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow has the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and is extremely
talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei’s judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela can’t do anything, what the student council can be of any help?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it go on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain
death for Gawain who runs out of Astral."

The heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica is the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearence! On matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-
sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because of Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into
Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast is rather large. The breasts changes its shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here has absolutely no indecent meaning. It means to
supply its master food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sits down and
didn’t even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn’t even
give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised.

Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stops his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you are riding the Necromancia, you have the sense of its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead gray dragon spoke. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash
still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca.

Even yesterday was a weekday, she still hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she is poor in expressing her
emotions; she doesn’t look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two
that is related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.''

Ash sincerely thought so.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons cannot be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just cannot sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish.

Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signifies that the school had ended of the rest of the day. Because there will be a staff meeting in the afternoon, thus they only have classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who also sneak into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had struck, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, then there is no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained.

Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face is like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart will became soft and forgive her
usual bad doings. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home to prepare gave a surprised look to Silvia. For Silvia to start a conversation with
someone in the classroom is like the sun rising from the west.

Silvia who was not bothered by the rest continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue colored eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute.

Silvia suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lukka and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off.

Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair sways gently with the wind.

Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus.

While facing the student council member who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca loudly announced:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for
Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. To just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref> This
is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn’t have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref> 解散Kaisan it means to disband the
meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seems that she is not certain on what she is going to do next.

Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intends to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lukka-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’.

Jessica march into the room.

Sure enough, Lucca is fast asleep in the coffin.

Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, but she seems to have followed Rebecca’s instruction to control the
amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas was lifted and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass the contract with the dragons- Seikoku can be seen.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twist it regardless.

"Ash-sama you musn’t peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that is off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At this time, Lucca finally woke up. She, like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked
expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!"

Ash commented. She really is a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, everyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she is completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of
an Eckbald or Lukka’s own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she is going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn’t expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth
princess from the Knights royal family.

Silvia as if she had suffered a knock, moved around unsteadily, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is some student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... This me is not fit to be a royal... I'm
ashamed to face Onee-sama who come here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side.

While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope is now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of what, they must drag her out from her bed to the
Seventh Dragon House.

At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly cling to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her
head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca
suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless.

Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was seeing.

Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she is tasting Eco’s horn is like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wants. The seductive expression shown
on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were with a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honorable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' ''S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth can be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position which makes others imagination run wild, but Eco who was under Lucca’s
control didn’t realize that her panties were exposed.

Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed.

That sense will be a person’s nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she will become weak... Ash concealed his
surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca.
Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca is totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash back to his sense grabbed Lucca’s shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, but now is not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lukka's eyes soon become serious.

Ash nodded to her firmly and try to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stare at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her-

However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one
by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca’s on the shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groans. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced.
Her facial features was like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looks like it will disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like her everything is with a mysterious charm, as if something that does not belong to this world.

Ash forced himself to look away, and talk to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lukka. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco behind Ash was furious.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. It can be seen
just how tense the situation is just now..

Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn’t knew what season it is right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms
initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform.

Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform.

The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lukka looked like the world's most delicate and charming
girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is it so?"

Ash who cannot stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca’s sight was set on Ash’s foot.

Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had stepped on something. No matter how you look at it, it appears to be a girl’s
panty.

A white pantie with pale-green stripes.

Opposite of the panicking Ash, Lukka gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without
hesitating, she lifts up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt was almost seen. Ash was sweating in shocked. The school uniform skirt was
originally designed to be short.

The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire was ignited behind.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rules of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which is like rags and asked him.

Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash can only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged on the bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged on the bed- How could the student council president gives dirty talks!"

"Haha. I just thought you now look a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come
looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth.

It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of stories has long been rumored in Ash hometown. But for Silvia,
the Ogre is Veronica.

Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained to me the whole incident. This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he get scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective.

Because the thing that Ash was going to challenge was nothing but the great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House is purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it is a sacred place in the campus. Even the building itself looks more luxurious than the others dragons house. Judging by the appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble.

Currently there are five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House.

By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proves just how
unusual is the Maestro’s existence.

Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn is the one who shines the most. It is as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the
Seventh Dragon House.

Facing of the huge sacred body, one cannot help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult
dragon feels low.

Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod were here. For Ash, these two Maestros can be considered as
familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house.

Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, but its silvery white fur is the proof of a
Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag is also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no
majestic feeling.

Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a
supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lukka have no such intention. Perhaps after
hiding herself for three months, there is probably a barrier between her and Gawain.

Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She can be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Don’t know whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil
Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, it is because of love, so sometimes we need to be strict and discipline them. You musn’t forget
this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly sees the moment when she ran away, her eyes shed tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain.

Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remains motionless. Is it because it doesn’t acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength
to bother with Ash...?

Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn’t seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap.

Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he can only cling
to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the time of impact. But the
strong impact made him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread.

Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at
the dragon house are soft, which is fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wants to study about the dragons.

After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologizes to Ash. Which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has done nothing wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my triumph card too."

"Triumph card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca with a serious look crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also could
not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela with a flirtatious smile replied:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply is nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wants the
opportunity to encounter with Eco, only then she became a teacher. So it is futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei’s personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I had decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco explode in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still
sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What do you think you are taking an extraordinary dragon as!"

Although Eco didn’t promised, but Ash can tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It is chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash can clearly hear Eco’s swallowing her saliva.

The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and starts reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smile after seeing eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation is about to enter its final stage.

This is the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chants felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision.

Followed by a thunderous bang.

Ash's body can be seen surrounded by gentle lights.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful.

Until the dazzling light was lest glaring, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark is the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he
fought the Necromancia.

Although it was an imitations rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the
Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica like a believer who had witnessed miracles from god was deeply moved.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him.

By turning his back towards the crowd, he again was facing Gawain.

Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash.
It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaps. Since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That is why he can float in mid-air for some time.

Ash’s jump had pass the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he can success
for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing at was the place where Gawain was
resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing as if it can teleport had
disappeared in a blink of an eye.

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca warning instantly brought him back to his sense.

He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all four with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a
bat.

Just at that moment, Gawain with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind
and heat and was knocked back.

Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collides with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark cannot withstand this impact. Suddenly, he has a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time
he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It is but only a mere hit, but the damage is already more than what the Ark can withstand.

Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive is the Dragon’s Breath… Only until he had personally experienced, it was far more
horrifying than what you can imagine.

Of course, it is clear that Gawain had shown some mercy.

If it really had the killing intends, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school can be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain.

Just like when the winner had been decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lie down. But it seems to detect the hostility from Ash
and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threat with its growl.

Ash leaned against the stone wall full of cold sweat.

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because of Ash terrible lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd can only dissolve. As for how to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- About this subject, Rebecca with a serious tone declared ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus.

It is a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney is its signature features. The working days are only at weekdays, which start at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it is about the dining table or chairs, all of them use the Chevron design, which gave an elegance feeling.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It is evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working.

Currently ‘La Tene’ is just like the manager had said, it lacked of manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath.

Even so, Anya did not forget her mission- collect intelligence. But also, she had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence
from the conversation with the students.

Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen,
there may be no opportunity to come into contact with the students.

As the students here are all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them,
she found out that they are just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and will actively take the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there are obviously guys who don’t have a pure motive.

Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys.

Ash is a famous person.

None of those who talked to Anya didn’t know about him.

Some praised him to be a wonder student who can easily ride Pal belongs to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who
caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president.

But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeated 'Avdocha the Convict’, all these students knew nothing about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence was controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this.

On the other hand, there was also useful information.

It was said that Ash’s Pal, young dragon Eco is not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This is really unbelievable.

For a dragon to be born in a human gesture, it was unheard of.

However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who can be described with the normal logic, slowly, she didn’t feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows it is that young dragon called Eco is the key that is making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash will not be wary about her.

The point is Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers.

Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food is the cheapest. Ash doesn’t look like a person who comes from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding...''

At this time, the entrance bell rang.

After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake.

There is a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl has a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there are circular stubs on her head. That's a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only that it is cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class.

Opposite to the description of the barbarian-tic dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons are artistic creature and cooking was also taken as a part of art.

Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, an appetizing smell is immediately felt by them.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She was full of a foreign air. Her tan skin, deep facial contour and her
dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was suddenly a sharp pain in Ash toes which made him jumped on the spot. It seems that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his
foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who ask you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathizes the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poke her nose into his buisness.

"Huh?"

Ash with a puzzled expression looked at Anya. It seems that, he seems to be so surprised for Anya to be cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smile back.

"I don’t really have much appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stare at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always said that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish that many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had
gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t you tell me you had forgotten!"

"Huh... you only had eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lukka & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
<references />

{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Talk:Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei

2014-04-20T04:01:30Z

John5dragons: /* Pupils */ new section

== General ==
I'd like to take a chance to thank you guys at baka-tsuki for translating all these novels I can't understand japense at all and after reading a number of your translations i've ended up going out and buying them when they are released so i wanted to say thanks for letting us all read the works when they come out, thanks again-soulwave

Just want to say thank you to [[User:Dreyakis|Dreyakis]] for translating so much of Mahouka. Because of him, this has been one of the best experiences I had with baka-tsuki. Keep up the good work, and may you never get bored. ^_^ --[[User:EZ-Jay|Tortex]] ([[User talk:EZ-Jay|talk]]) 18:20, 22 January 2013 (CST)

Best place to post would probably be on the forum topic. I'll link you to it in a min.--[[User:Gohankuten|Gohankuten]] ([[User talk:Gohankuten|talk]]) 20:30, 6 December 2012 (CST) http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=4664

Guys I'm still dependent on my parents and i cant donate or know other language like japanese to translate. But I just wish to say thanks for translating this novel. I have been looking forward for it and check it every other day :D - ChiAji

Hey, so I just read the first two chapters of the anime and I found it awesome. Is there a translator for this right now? - Desodus

Atm there isnt--[[User:J112|J112]] 19:22, 21 January 2012 (CST)

How do you read anime? -[[User:Pryun|Pryun]] 19:27, 21 January 2012 (CST)

Maybe the two chapter of this manga...

Whoops, sorry, I meant to say manga.--[[User:Desodus|Desodus]] 18:43, 13 February 2012 (CST)

Any update on this being updated? From what I've read of the novel and the manga, this seems like a pretty awesome series, and I need moar :D --[[User:Vaane|Vaane]] 18:33, 1 April 2012 (CDT)

Uhh seriously why do people ask? The last update was on the 19th, and from the registration page people are working on other parts. The more you ask the more people don't feel like doing it :( --[[User:Lighthalzen|Lighthalzen]] 21:39, 1 April 2012 (CDT)

The reason I asked was that some of the chapters (namely Chapter 3) have no translator registered, and I was wondering whether there was anyone who was translating and hadn't put their name down. But I can understand the feeling of being annoyed at asking for updates, so forget I asked :P --[[User:Vaane|Vaane]] 10:58, 3 April 2012 (CDT)

Actually, the latest revision was on March 31st (in terms of actually adding translations); Seitsuki added some more to chapter 6, if memory serves. I also hope people will eventually get to translating this. --[[User:CrimsonLord|CrimsonLord]] 17:17, 3 April 2012 (CDT)

When are teaser projects allowed to be moved to the main section? Could really use some more exposure to get more people on board translating. I'm sure the recent manga releases have helped drum up some excitement for the series.

Are the translators doing it by the volumes as they come out on sale, or from online readers? Because the fifth volume just went on sale this month, but on this Japanese reading site, there are 6 volumes online.--[[User:Desodus|Desodus]] 22:04, 18 April 2012 (CDT)

There are 6 volume release online cause the web version is longer than the published one, the published one is the compilation of the web version I just can't remember how they are allocated I think its like this v1-2 of the web version is v1 of the published one, and the total number of web version that will be released is around 12 I think? --[[User:Serice|Serice]]

---

http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4664#p120782

''Originally Posted by Baka-Tsuki''
:'''The web novel consisted of only 6 web chapters written covering the First Year arc, and the author has already planned for a total of 15 web chapters to cover the entire three years of Magic High School. As of August 2011, web chapter 1 has been been compiled into volumes 1 and 2, and as of December 2011, web chapter 2 has been compiled into volumes 3 and 4.''' The author expects the series to be compiled into a total of 20 to 25 volumes (ie. if Dengeki allows him to finish the series) [SOURCE: Author's tweet on 6-Nov-2011, #dengeki_mahouka]
:'''Volume 5 will be a special chapter that has never been released on the web.'''

http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4664&start=135#p143960

http://forums.animesuki.com/showpost.php?p=4110854&postcount=561

--[[User:Larethian|larethian]] 22:53, 18 April 2012 (CDT)

---

Interesting... very interesting... I think it would be a good idea to hurry and complete the teaser chapters and then promote this into an official project. Because of the manga version, people over at Batoto are taking an interest as well. And there are many comments mentioning Baka-Tsuki and wishing it was an official project here. [[User:Zero2001|Zero2001]] - [[User_talk:Zero2001|Talk]] - 15:40, 26 April 2012 (CDT)

This has enough content to become a project, but the problem is, no one wants to list himself as an active translator, I'll give another few weeks before I check back with suarhnir on her progress. I'm glad enough she agreed to take over the manga from me, so I don't want to give her 'pressure', if possible. --[[User:Larethian|larethian]] 20:13, 26 April 2012 (CDT)

Moreover, this project is really hard and time-consuming to translate. It seems to me that even suarhnir who is majoring in Japanese in university (not studying it as an elective mind you) is taking more time than she had expected. --[[User:Larethian|larethian]] 20:19, 26 April 2012 (CDT)

Query: Does Baka-Tsuki accept Chinese-English translations for this series?

I believe the good folk at lightnovel.cn are much farther in advance in terms of translations, but theirs is (obviously) only in Chinese and their work alone. I do not read Japanese at all, but I am confident in my own Chinese-English translations. Would Baka-Tsuki accept my possible contribution if I converted the Chinese translations into English? This is, of course, under the assumption that the translators from lightnovel.cn give the go ahead. --[[User:Dreyakis|Dreyakis]] 22:59, 02 July 2012

I think that as long as you follow registration procedure for the chapters (to avoid overlapping), you can go ahead. People want to see the translation of this great series. If there is any mistake people that can check japanese raw can edit it after. [[User:Xenocross|Xenocross]] 01:14, 3 July 2012 (CDT)

The art really similar to aquarion evol, are they drawn by the same person?

It would be great if somebody could translate the rest of chapter 2 or at least for the time being offer some kind of summary. Iin this kind of consistent story it is almost imposible to read the rest if you don´t know what happens in the previous chapter.--[[User:KaprJarda|KaprJarda]] ([[User talk:KaprJarda|talk]]) 16:35, 10 September 2012 (CDT)

Yeah. I know the feeling. I wanted to read the whole thing but now that there is a gap in the middle I've lost the desire to read further. Someone finish c2's translation including the japanese text in the middle. [[User:Zero2001|Zero2001]] - [[User_talk:Zero2001|Talk]] - 18:30, 10 September 2012 (CDT)

Let's be patient, the last update was only one week ago, the translator is working on it. Everyone has real life commitments. [[User:Zakashi|Zakashi]] ([[User talk:Zakashi|talk]]) 18:38, 10 September 2012 (CDT)

Yeah, I just notice this too. I thought there wasn´t anybody working to translate it, since it was in this state for months. I didn´t read the history till after writing my comment. So lets hope the rest gets translation as soon as possible.--[[User:KaprJarda|KaprJarda]] ([[User talk:KaprJarda|talk]]) 23:54, 10 September 2012 (CDT)

Ooh, found an interesting AMV/MAD of this, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQ01QsdHers [[User:Zeru|Zeru]] ([[User talk:Zeru|talk]]) 06:25, 6 September 2013 (CDT)

This illustration here is missing from the chapter http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=File:MKnR_v01_131.jpg [[User:Arczyx|Arczyx]] ([[User talk:Arczyx|talk]]) 07:28, 26 September 2012 (CDT)

== Volume 1 The late great favorite ==

What is this? [[User:Zero2001|Zero2001]] - [[User_talk:Zero2001|Talk]] - 10:19, 26 September 2012 (CDT)

Additional commentary by Kawahara Reki (SAO/AW author). [[User:Seitsuki|Seit]] ([[User talk:Seitsuki|talk]]) 06:29, 27 September 2012 (CDT)

== Editing ==

I'm just wondering but what are the requirements for being an editor?

There are no requirements. Just edit.(btw you should sign your comments)--[[User:KaprJarda|KaprJarda]] ([[User talk:KaprJarda|talk]]) 05:54, 27 September 2012 (CDT)

Also you have to be a dedicated one. Once you write your name under the editor's list, it is expected that much. --[[User:Chancs|Chancs]] ([[User talk:Chancs|talk]]) 06:08, 27 September 2012 (CDT)

So i'll have to make an account as well? And sign like how you all sign with the name, date and time?

Using this : <nowiki>~~~~</nowiki> [[User:Arczyx|Arczyx]] ([[User talk:Arczyx|talk]]) 11:46, 1 October 2012 (CDT)

Simply click on the "pencil" in the edit toolbar and you will have your signature as per the settings. --[[User:Chancs|Chancs]] ([[User talk:Chancs|talk]]) 14:02, 1 October 2012 (CDT)

OK, thanks --[[User:Cliff|Cliff]] ([[User talk:Cliff|talk]]) 15:28, 1 October 2012 (CDT)

Trivial thing but shoud it not be Arc or Part instead of Chapter in ex Volume 1 - Enrollment Chapter (I) --[[User:Medisuena|Medisuena]] ([[User talk:Medisuena|talk]])

Would it be fine if I begin editing? I would be able to put in some time each day. --[[User:Shirofune|Shirofune]]

== Novel illustrations ==

Umm... is it ok if i level the b&w ilustrations? i mean make the black black, and the white white. it's annoying that everything is grey. also crop them where there is a need. ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 08:18, 9 November 2012 (CST)

Why not give one image a level and give a link to it? I can understand your desire to level things, but I think the gray color suits a light novel. It's a bit too different from manga which has less reliance on shading, so it may not look right if you do it improperly. Then again, I have very limited experience as an editor, and I have no idea what it is you can do, so I guess that may seem a bit condescending of me. Well, if the quality is good, I doubt people would mind it much, but give us a sample so someone doesn't decide they dislike it and re-uploads the picture and gets rid of your hard work -- [[User:EnigmaticAxiom|EnigmaticAxiom]] - [[User_talk:EnigmaticAxiom|Talk]] - 09:40, 09 November 2012 (CST)

it looks like this with the leveling i think it's better but it's up to you ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 12:35, 9 November 2012 (CST)

I personally think it looks better as well. May as well see what the others think of it. If they don't bother, you can post on the forum to get their opinion (since they might not look here), or I can bring their attention to it if you don't have a forum account. -- [[User:EnigmaticAxiom|EnigmaticAxiom]] - [[User_talk:EnigmaticAxiom|Talk]] - 13:20, 09 November 2012 (CST)

Please do bring this to the forum. If needed i can provide more leveled images. Also it's not realy that big of a work. It's like 5 minutes and a volume worth of images are croped and leveled. <Please post a link to the thread here so i can look at what's going on as well> ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 13:56, 9 November 2012 (CST)

forget it i registered and made a post in the general thread. ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 14:51, 9 November 2012 (CST)

well i started uploading them since arczyx in the forum said that they looked closer to the truth, and someone asked me for them to put in the pdf. so volume 1 is up, more coming. these two images have become useless so i'm deleting them. ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 08:48, 16 November 2012 (CST)

i put up vol 3 and 4 leveled, the rest looks OK so i wont fiddle with them ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 10:40, 10 December 2012 (CST)

== Missing Chapter ==

Isn't the "Late Great Favorite" a chapter in volume 1 missing, i mean i get why sometimes Afterwords aren't translated as they are just the authors thoughts but does the chapter missing in volume 1 have some kind of plot implication?

If you checked the forum thread you would find out its just some comments from Kawahara Reki(author of Accel World/Sword Art Online) and doesn't contain anything vital to the story.--[[User:Gohankuten|Gohankuten]] ([[User talk:Gohankuten|talk]]) 20:58, 2 December 2012 (CST)

So which brave soul will be translating chapter 16 come do it for your country

== Helping with translating ==
Hello, I really have not idea if this is the correct place or not but here goes: I would like to help, I do not read the Japanese Language very well but, I would like to try to help with the translating. English is my first language and this is my first time ever on a site like this. I enjoy reading Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei so, I want to help get it out faster for everyone. Dec. 6, 2012 username: sqyde
Thanks and if this is the wrong place to post this, sorry.

Try translating 5 pages first. You can post your translations in the Mahouka forum. --[[User:Larethian|larethian]] ([[User talk:Larethian|talk]]) 03:35, 7 December 2012 (CST)

== Volume 4 ==

Is volume 4 fully translated? I was wondering because aside from the Preamble it also doesn't have a "full text" so i was wondering if some little edits were required or if translators were waiting for Preamble to be done before the full text went up. --Black Swordsman825

It's a wiki you know, you're free to set it up when it's appropriate (I've done volume 4 now). Also, from what I understand the preamble is the blue page and the character info/glossary of term pages you can see in the illustrations, therefore it isn't really that important since it (the events/timetable of events) is explained in detail within the storyline anyways.--[[User:Drowzycow|Drowzycow]] ([[User talk:Drowzycow|talk]]) 19:57, 22 December 2012 (CST)

== Volume 5 ==
Hi guys, as I am currently trying to translate the afterwords, I found out that volume 5 does not seem to have one? Can anyone help me confirm this with the Japanese raws? From all the Chinese sites that I go to there aren't any that have include in an afterword for volume 5. Thanks! [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 10:36, 7 February 2013 (CST)

Well I actually checked the raws myself, and have realised that there is actually an afterword for volume 5 as well. However, as it seems like the Chinese translation sites that I went to do not have them, I can only hope that some Japanese to English translator would be kind enough to help translate it for us. -- [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 18:05, 14 February 2013 (CST)

Can anyone link or send me the raw for volume 5? I want to read the machine translation of the 3 middle chapters. Seeing as how it's all character development, I'd like to know more before moving on with the story. --[[User:Mufarasu|Mufarasu]] ([[User talk:Mufarasu|talk]]) 16:19, 25 February 2013 (CST)

Hey guys. I don't know if this was already asked or not, but why are the 3 middle chapters of volume 5 not translated? Just wondering because I like to read thing in order. --[[User:Casary|Casary]] ([[User talk:Casary|talk]]) 22:28, 9 March 2013 (CST)

It completely depends upon if I translator picks up the chapter, as translators are allowed to choose single chapters. Skipping Volume 5 wouldn't affect the story as there "Side Stories" to the main plot :3. Although i would also like them translated.

Oh, I see. They aren't named chapter X or anything. Ok, thanks. A bit of OCD, I guess. --[[User:Casary|Casary]] ([[User talk:Casary|talk]]) 00:35, 12 March 2013 (CDT)

I've been waiting like a year, Please finish the last bits of volume 5 so I can continue reading this series , I know its side stories but it got a number volume so I cant skip it --[[User:Godoffire|Godoffire]] ([[User talk:Godoffire|talk]]) 20:30, 28 November 2013 (CST)

There is only one story in volume 5 that has even the slightly effect on the story, and it's already been translated. The rest can be skipped which is why their not translated. Your missing out on a damn epic story if your still hang up in Volume 5 side stories.

Chronology is the most important thing, And a series with Side Story Volumes with numbers demands that they be read, Its not Toaru where the Sidestories are Outside of the numbering and can be skipped --[[User:Godoffire|Godoffire]] ([[User talk:Godoffire|talk]]) 11:03, 29 November 2013 (CST)

You most likely will be waiting for awhile then. Most of the translators are focused on getting the main storyline caught up with the released novels. Only when that is done will they maybe consider working on vol 5. --[[User:Bilagaana|Bilagaana]] ([[User talk:Bilagaana|talk]]) 14:49, 29 November 2013 (CST)

I'm never going to get to finish this series am I....--[[User:Godoffire|Godoffire]] ([[User talk:Godoffire|talk]]) 20:17, 29 March 2014 (CDT)

I like how I commented that on my bday just for chapter 2 to be added 2 days later
THERE ARE GODS!
Now I just need Chapter 3 to be finished and I can finally continue this series --[[User:Godoffire|Godoffire]] ([[User talk:Godoffire|talk]]) 20:29, 1 April 2014 (CDT)

== Inconsistent terminology ==

Some chapters use "Public Moral Committee", others "Public Morals Committee" (I prefer the latter). Also "Club Management Group" vs "Club Activities Group".

i think "Public Morals Committee" and "Club Management Group" souds better. Also please do sign your post with <nowiki>~~~~</nowiki> ..::[[User:Gradient|Gradient]]::.. 14:13, 1 February 2013 (CST)

== Volume 7 ==

As I stated at the discussion page of chapter 9, I think "electrons" should be "protons" (check the concept of nuclear fusion).--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 14:38, 14 February 2013 (CST)

I just had to say this, was anyone else thinking that Tatsuya made a Gundam when they kept mentioning the mobile suit he developed? That picture with the tank didn't help either. I just kept seeing everything turn into a mecha battle lol. Anyone else or am I the only one who got brainwashed like that by the Gundam franchise? --[[User:Mufarasu|Mufarasu]] ([[User talk:Mufarasu|talk]]) 15:10, 11 March 2013 (CDT)

well i was also thinking the same thing at that mobile suit that he developed, but it turns out that it was something like a fullbody armor with all kinds of resistance something. while reading the last few chapters of volume 7 it feels like something like this. IS(Infinite Stratos) vs Gundams in my imagination. [[User:James Gobilzkame|V33]] 15:21, 11 March 2013 (CDT)

arent the pictures from page 225 and 313 showing what the mobile suit look like? --[[User:Syfer|Syfer]] ([[User talk:Syfer|talk]]) 15:31, 11 March 2013 (CDT)

I would think the cover page would have shown you what to expect, as it is already there in full (black) color. If anything it just looks like a all black pilot suit...
In any case, the 'mobile' or 'mobility' suit is basically your flying armor, except since its technomagical its more logical having the 'flight capacity' CAD module as the whole suit, instead of wings or a broomstick. It does show something more practical compared to what more contemporary fiction shows.
And yes, I was also hoping for mecha to appear since the cover had a pilot suit... laughed when the pilot suit Was the whole thing.--[[User:Gabgrave|Gabgrave]] ([[User talk:Gabgrave|talk]]) 04:41, 12 March 2013 (CDT)

== Thank you ==

I just wanted to take a moment to say thanks to all of those who's work brings us this project. So thank you.

I just wanted to take a moment to say thanks to all of those who's work brings us this project. So thank you. --[[User:Mathes|Mathes]] ([[User talk:Mathes|talk]]) 02:37, 25 March 2013 (CDT)

I tried reading auto-translated Chinese translations, one already translated here for testing and it's even worse than I expected. Seriously, thank you for taking the time to do this, I love this novel and my only regret is not being able to help with the translation myself. --[[User:EZ-Jay|Tortex]] ([[User talk:EZ-Jay|talk]]) 16:40, 18 April 2013 (CDT)

== Latest Update List ==

I just want to ask permission to edit the last entry on the latest update list (or you guys could edit it for me, that would be really great), just a minor one 'Vokume 8' to 'Volume 8'. Thanks a lot. - [[User:SkyZenith|SkyZenith]] ([[User talk:SkyZenith|talk]]) 5:47, 30 May 2013 (CDT)
:Hmm.. I don't need to keep up with CDT time do I? Not that hard, but I am proud living down under. - [[User:SkyZenith|SkyZenith]] ([[User talk:SkyZenith|talk]]) 20:50 30 May 2013 (EAST)
::Done (I accept any responsibility if I've crossed any lines); from my experience so far, no one seems to mind if 99.9% certainty spelling/grammar careless errors are discreetly corrected, even if the corrector is not formally registered for a project. (As a general mode of operation, I mark the edit as a minor edit and leave a brief description of the change(/its reasoning) in the summary. For more ambiguous things, if I note something in Discussion and enough time passes without a reply or a change, I change it just in case (and keep watch to see if someone has a reason to change it back).) -[[User:Multipartite|Multipartite]] ([[User talk:Multipartite|talk]]) 06:12, 30 May 2013 (CDT)
::|
::Edit: By the way, how did you change your signature? *curiosity* I have my time zone set to 'Asia/Tokyo', and I see 'Recent changes' and History pages with times consistent with that, but my signature is still CDT. I don't mind leaving it like that, since it presumably helps others compare my writing times to others' with litle confusion (and since I can check the History if I forget), but I don't see a way to change it in 'My preferences' and would like to learn about such a way if it exists (out of a desire to know those things I as yet do not). -[[User:Multipartite|Multipartite]] ([[User talk:Multipartite|talk]]) 06:18, 30 May 2013 (CDT)

::I am but an unregistered user here at BT, so unfortunately I don't have any signatures or anything of that sort. So yeah I really can't talk about it. But if you are talking about the time thing on the last part, is it safe to assume that it's all been preset? Cause I do it manually just for the formalities.

::Hmm... I do see some grammatical errors every now and then, but my thinking is that the translator probably made it that way willingly. Glad to be of help though. - [[User:SkyZenith|SkyZenith]] ([[User talk:SkyZenith|talk]]) 21:38 30 May 2013 (EAST)
:::Ahh. Manual writing out? Though it won't include your chosen name, four consecutive tildes should still automatically make a signature which makes it easier to match what you say with an entry in a Discussion's History. (One option would be to first write your chosen name manually, then leave the formal signature to the tildes.)
:::|
:::There are cases where characters have distinct/characteristic speaking styles, but there are also glaring cases where normal fallibility is far more plausible than intention (as with spelling errors). To be on the safe side, best to change only things that one can feel nearly certain about (and that no one has objected to in the past). -[[User:Multipartite|Multipartite]] ([[User talk:Multipartite|talk]]) 17:22, 30 May 2013 (CDT)

:::I didn't know you can do that with tildes.. Thanks for the info. I was just copying whatever I could here at the discussion page since I am not really a user, so do expect me to make a few beginner-like commands.
:::On a side note, does the tildes only match the CDT time zone? I'm quite intrigued. SkyZenith 20:19, 1 June 2013 (EAST)
::::So it seems! (The CDT-matching.) That's why I in turn was intrigued when it looked as though you had a way to make them give a non-CDT time zone. Rather than taking my word for it, I suggest you try the four tildes at least once to confirm to yourself(/your brain) that it functions (and if something goes wrong, to find out why and correct the source). (Essentially, it should be ~ ~ ~ ~ without the three spaces.) -[[User:Multipartite|Multipartite]] ([[User talk:Multipartite|talk]]) 01:19, 2 June 2013 (CDT)

::::Incidentally, this is what it looks like when not logged in. (Posting now with a hyphen and four tildes after having logged out.) -[[Special:Contributions/180.43.16.157|180.43.16.157]] 01:21, 2 June 2013 (CDT)

::::...We probably have gone off-topic now huh. Sorry for that. Yeah since I plan to visit BT every now and then in the first place, I just made an account. Hope to be of help! - [[User:SkyZenith|SkyZenith]] ([[User talk:SkyZenith|talk]]) 08:59, 2 June 2013 (CDT)
::::This actually looks cool, but alas it's in CDT.

I added some missing materials in Mahouka, that's all for now. Pui Pui have to wait (some more)--[[User:Superduperelectromagnetictops|Superduperelectro]] ([[User talk:Superduperelectromagnetictops|talk]]) 00:31, 17 June 2013 (CDT)

== Dengeki Bunko Magazine: Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei Ninendo ==

I have a question
is the "Dengeki Bunko Magazine: Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei Ninendo" that you uploaded it's Magazine Illustrations - is the double seven arc? and when it will be release in a light novel version- what will be it's arc number or it's volumes numbers ?

:It's the double 7 arc, so starts covering the events in the Tatsuya's second year. From memory, those chapters should start after this arc is complete; I think it'll end up being started as volume 13. Maybe 12 depending on how volume 11 goes.. --[[User:Drowzycow|Drowzycow]] ([[User talk:Drowzycow|talk]]) 08:37, 26 June 2013 (CDT)

== DVD Drama ==
Hey, did you know mahouka no Rettousei audio dvd drama comes with a special story (at leas, it seems to me a "story") If you are interested in raws, just tell me [[User:TerryBoom|TerryBoom]] ([[User talk:TerryBoom|talk]])

== Anime ==
IT HAS BEGUN, IT HAS BLOODY BEGUN. *SQUEELL!* http://mahouka.jp

:Nothing to be happy about. They will probably make another failed adaptation like SAO. Just look at previous works of the director or what Madhouse did to Kaminai. The worst thing is that we can expect americans buying licence for novels after the anime, and B-T dropping the project. Another title I'll never come to finish.--[[User:Antanaru|Antanaru]] ([[User talk:Antanaru|talk]]) 14:29, 7 October 2013 (CDT)

Failed apadation? How so. If you would care to electorate. [[User:All Nighter94|All Night]] ([[User talk:All Nighter94|talk]]) 11:24, 8 October 2013 (CDT)
:Sorry for the late reply. Well, how should I put it to keep it short... Let's say butchered character design was enough to completely put me off. Then we have the overall feeling (or atmosphere) and some plot points. I can say the same about Kikou Shoujo... for that matter. I'm quite enjoying the novel but anime is unwatachable for said reasons. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind minor changes but when anime feels and looks like something completely different than the original, just with the same names, something is wrong.

:I don't want to go into a lengthy discussion about quality of LN adaptations so let me just sum it up like this: I don't care about the anime as long as I can read the rest of the story. Of course without waiting years for some US company to catch up with B-T and then dropping the thing.--[[User:Antanaru|Antanaru]] ([[User talk:Antanaru|talk]]) 12:55, 17 October 2013 (CDT)

Don't you mean "elaborate"? i'm pretty sure that's the correct word... not to be a pain, just for clarification purposes. considering that "electorate" means a collective of individuals who gather to vote for governmental purposes, like the senate and such? (Edit: author = Tintexan24)

I had trouble watching the PV on the website, but was able to view it at youtube watch?v=RiuznXhx4_Q . The art style is a little worryingly simplistic (reminiscent of Vocaloid visual quality?), but I have no complaints regarding the two main characters and look forward to seeing what is done with it.
 | 
In recent season, 'Campione!' is my freshest memory of an anime adaptation which did not adequately succeed, but it was nevertheless enjoyable to watch. No matter what, there will always be dissatisfaction with how much ends up not adapted from a novel, but I (aside from a certain incorrect error message) was thoroughly satisfied by the SAO anime adaptation.
 | 
...It would be a deep shame to not be able to keep reading new Rettousei volumes, but on the other hand most main climaxes have already taken place. Granted, I would be deeply interested in reading about Miyuki taking over the Yotsuba family, or about Miyuki and Tatsuya's super-babies, but if the translation was shut down I would hopefully be able to focus on the wonderful volumes that have been translated thus far and be happy (and grateful) that I had a chance to read them.
 | 
Horrible-quality animation comes around every once in a while, but most anime adaptations these days are quite good. An anime of a beloved series is something to be interested in, to be curious about, and definitely something to be happy about. (Though unrelated, the studio is completely different from the one behind the SAO adaptation.) If (in the worst case scenario) the visual quality in fact turns out to make it painfully unwatchable, one can always minimise the window and listen to it like an audio book. In any case, it would take some quite serious mangling for one to not be able to get happiness from this anime, and mangling of that level is rare indeed (though admittedly not unwitnessed). -[[User:Multipartite|Multipartite]] ([[User talk:Multipartite|talk]]) 18:18, 7 October 2013 (CDT)

I was referring to the fact he said failed SAO adaption. Although I will agree with you on the "Campione" adaptation.

Just have to wait and see. A lot of the adaptations don't quite work... they seem to shift the IP to target pubescent males at the expense of story. I'm just not a big fan of GRATUITOUS fan-service. It has its place, but overall I prefer "plot" to be measured in chapters rather than cup-size. [[User:Grimjakk|Grimjakk]] ([[User talk:Grimjakk|talk]]) 13:29, 8 October 2013 (CDT)
:Having watched the first episode, I feel like they did a decent job of trying to adapt the huge amount of information included in the novels to the anime. My biggest concerns are along the same lines as you Grimjakk, I worry that the darker aspects of Miyuki and Tatsuya will be glossed over. Lastly, I am worried over the character of Mayumi and Tatsuya. They may have difficultly pulling off Tatsuya's demeanor, and they seemed to have taken Mayumi in the opposite direction of the novels. [[User:TheAEmix|TheAEmix]] ([[User talk:TheAEmix|talk]]) 09:51, 9 April 2014 (CDT)

I feel like we'll be better served if someone takes the project off zwabbit's hands. He hasn't made any progress and having his name there prevents anyone else from picking it up.

:You have it the other way around, the regular translators don't seem to be interested on taking on the two very side character side stories, so we are lucky to even have zwabbit's irregular updates. If zwabbit truely has disappeared, the only translators who might be up for it are Dreyakis/Sashiko and they probably won't jump on it until after volume 12 (if volume 13 comes out before then you won't even see them jump on it until after that...)--[[Special:Contributions/31.50.26.71|31.50.26.71]] 05:12, 12 November 2013 (CST)

== Volume 12 ==

Is it just me or is volume 12 the start of the second year for them? [[User:Oddmoonlight|Oddmoonlight]] ([[User talk:Oddmoonlight|talk]]) 11:52, 18 November 2013 (CST)

It is the start of the second year. In the epilogue of vol 11 its written that the first year ended [[User:Syfer|Syfer]] ([[User talk:Syfer|talk]]) 12:08, 18 November 2013 (CST)

I asked just to be sure it's not a side story or the likes. If it is the second year it would explain some of the illustrations of it. Poor Tatsuya will have to deal with his new kouhai... [[User:Oddmoonlight|Oddmoonlight]] ([[User talk:Oddmoonlight|talk]]) 01:39, 19 November 2013 (CST)

: Pfffft, seriously, it's the other way round. Poor Kouhai LOL --[[User:Larethian|larethian]] ([[User talk:Larethian|talk]]) 09:06, 24 November 2013 (CST)

I wonder who the new boy is ? maybe a member of the 10 master clans like mayumi and katsuto ?
http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Ashwathdragon 24 NOVEMBER 2013

: I doubt that since there are only Saegusa, Juumonji and Yotsuba around the first high [[User:Syfer|Syfer]] ([[User talk:Syfer|talk]]) 12:08, 24 November 2013 (CST)

: From what i heard the boy has the number 7 in his name.. [[User:James Gobilzkame|V33]] 12:46, 24 November 2013 (CST)

: mayumi doesnt have a little brother, so it might be one of those other 16 or 18 families [[User:Syfer|Syfer]] ([[User talk:Syfer|talk]]) 12:56, 24 November 2013 (CST)

: Did you guys read the last chapter in volume 11 The Ojou-sama's Magnificent Day Off? I think you can get an answer to some of the new characters there... [[User:Oddmoonlight|Oddmoonlight]] ([[User talk:Oddmoonlight|talk]]) 13:08, 24 November 2013 (CST)

: the new guy is called shippō takuma and the girls are the saegusa twins kasumi and izumi [[User:Syfer|Syfer]] ([[User talk:Syfer|talk]]) 13:56, 24 November 2013 (CST)

== Volume 13 ==
Why are we listing volume that is not released yet? Shouldn't we wait at least till it gets a proper ISBN number? [[User:SinsI|SinsI]] 25 January 2014

Because this prevents certain people to list it even though we usually wait for a proper ISBN number. In a nutshell: if those in charge do it, it prevents constant reverts, editing, complaints and sermons we would get if someone who doesn't follow the standards of this novel wiki did it. [[User:SXIII|SXIII]] ([[User talk:SXIII|talk]]) 11:56, 25 January 2014 (CST)

== Pupils ==

Not to nitpick the translations, but pupils are always black, while iris' are the part of the eye that has different coloring. I do not speak or read any language other that English fluently. As such I just wish to point this out to the translators.