[magref notes1]The use of Percher……….I’m so going to use the name Percher for Black Death Demon Lord! Anyone who wants her to be called Pest is a Pest! Hmph! Her bad character role is over! OVER! And I like her a LOT! So deal with it.
Spoiler! :
VOL 5 PROLOGUE
----Outer Gate number 2105380, [No Name] Community, Residential Area
The pleasant golden hue of sunlight filtered into the room as Leticia, in her maid outfit, sat beside the window tying her braids. Placing her comb on the dressing table, she contemplated over the reflection of herself in the mirror.
“……I guess I’m good to go. I’m also getting more comfortable with this maid outfit too.”
Leticia swayed her head from left to right to check her hair for a final time, causing her silky golden hair to glitter as they catch the sunlight.
She seemed like a twelve year old in a clean and neatly worn maid outfit. Although cute flowery frills that line the hems were of no practical use nor did it comply with the idea of a proper maid attire, it looked very charming on her. And that could only be the materialisation of her master’s fetish.
Leticia stood with arms akimbo, staring at the completion of her make-up in the mirror’s reflection, silently encouraging herself as her way to start the day.
Just then, a gentle knocking came at her door.
“Leticia-sama, the others from the senior group have gathered.”
“Got it, Lily. I will take charge of calling Percher [magref notes1]. Just wait for me at the hall.”
Lily gave an energetic response of having heard Leticia’s words before departing from the doorway.
Listening to Lily’s energetic voice and movements, Leticia couldn’t help but smile fondly as Lily’s optimism and enthusiasm rubbed off on her.
-----The residential area of the “No Name” community was a building of twelve storeys. With level of the building being representative of the position one holds in the community, the rooms get more spacious and well furnished with each level.
Currently, there’s no one living in the quarters above the third storey. It’s definitely not because of a lack of people with the calibre needed to reach the positions in the community. But more of convenience that the building has accommodated its members up to the third storey.
Leticia’s former bed chamber was at the 10th storey. However, it would be unbecoming for a maid to be quartered in a bedroom over that of her masters. And so, she currently takes her residence in a room for one, beside the kitchen and the pantry.
“If I remember correctly, Shirayuki-hime has left with Izayoi and the others. Seems like I can only share my workload with Percher today…” [magref notes2]
Making a beeline for Percher’s bedroom, she walked briskly pass the Community’s intersection of roads in the hall.
However, she suddenly stopped her footsteps when she caught a glimpse of herself in a mirror that happen to be in the corridor for members to regularly check their appearances in. Seemingly entranced by the sight of her own reflection----
“Hmm-----”
Leticia seemed to be reminiscing a good memory as she gently lifted her skirts slightly and spun on the spot like an innocent teenage girl.
The clean white dress hems fluttered as they got caught in the momentum of her spin, strikingly similar to the blossoming of a flower.
And she spun for a second time before a smile of satisfaction spread across her lips.
“At first, I was against the idea of wearing such an outfit…” Leticia smiled as she continued looking at her reflection in the mirror. “But I guess it does have its own charms…”
“Lecticia! What are you doing in front of the mirror?”
Lecticia’s body froze. Beads of cold sweat were forming out of shame as she knew that the damage had already been done.
What a painful mistake to make, Leticia could only blame it on the peaceful atmosphere that caused her to drop her guard to this extent. But remaining frozen wasn’t an option for Leticia either.
Barely containing her trembles, she turned to face Percher------“God of BlackDeath”, the other maid who walked out from her bedroom.
Percher had cocked her head to a side seemingly appraising Lecticia as though she found something strange.
Lecticia, who had been dancing just a little while ago, awkwardly turned her eyes away, unable to meet Percher’s gaze.
“Heys, Leticia? What’s wrong with you? Your face is really red. Are you okay?”
“……. Nothing, I’m fine. As long as you didn’t see it.”
“But your ears are red too?”
“I already said that it’s nothing!”
“You are going red all the way to the neck too?”
“Hnh, yeah! Just feeling a little high on the blood pressure today than compared to normal days! It’s what I get for being a vampire! Mornings that I awake to feeling this flustered and red are just….”
“Your age and outfit really match perfectly, so don’t be so shy about it! Moreover, your make-up is so cute too.”
Percher made it seem like a victorious proclamation before making her way to the dining hall.
Lecticia’s energy also seemed to have left her as she watched the retreating shadow of Percher, her shoulders drooping slightly.
*
---- Half a month have passed since the end of the battle with the huge dragon.
The members of ‘No Name’ community continued to busy themselves with various activities while enjoying the peace and freedom of normal life.
Lecticia, originally the Demon Lord that hosted the Gift game, has officially become a servant together with two other maids to be in charge of the senior group.
‘Underwood’ ‘s harvest festival was postponed due to the dragon’s attack, but due to large amount of support from “Thousand Eyes” and other volunteers, the date to resume the celebration has been confirmed.
South had also officially announced the electing of a new Floor Master and invited many guests from the other communities. The Draco Greif Alliance having contributed a lot to the defeat of a Demon Lord would be the most likely candidate to be elected to take the position.
[picture][1 goes here]
At the same time, “Willo’ wisp” and ‘No Name’ have also shared in the honour of having defeated a Demon Lord and are now acknowledged by communities for their fighting prowess.
[Thanks must be given to Sala. Her thoughtfulness to specially advertise for our community’s ‘No Name’ with the last Demon Lord Battle]
Even if much contributions and feats were accomplished, the ‘No Name’ community lacked an emblem to be officially acknowledged. Sala, the alliance leader, had taken that factor into account and wrote of ‘No Name’ ‘s accomplishments in her invitation letters for the resumption of the harvest festival.
Their honesty and kindness helped Leticia regain her composure as she pushed forward into the Community’s hallway. The children were already in their neat files, awaiting Leticia’s arrival. Lily, the one responsible for falling them in, perked her fox ears upon her entrance and ran over with her overalls rustling with her movements.
“Leticia-sama! Good Morning! The senior group have gathered!”
“Really. Good Morning everyone. Eaten breakfast yet?”
“Yes! It was really good too!”
“Today’s dish is Omelette rice!”
“I already can’t wait to eat lunch!”
“It’s still too early.”
Leticia smiled wryly while telling off that energetic kid.
There were a total of twenty kids that averaged at the age of 10 that made up the senior group which purpose was to be in charge of the Community’s food and lodgings. Their energetic selves in the early morning seemingly prepared to face the day’s tasks ahead was really heart-warming yet sad. Leticia smiled as she gazed upon them.
“Well then, let’s start dividing the tasks for the day… but I have something to tell everyone before that.”
With that, Leticia took out an invitation letter that had the wax seal emblem of the Draco Greif Alliance stamped on it. Holding the letter, she looked at the children seriously.
“The harvest festival hosted at ‘Underwood’ ‘s great waterfall has extended its invitation to welcome all members of “No Name” community… did you guys understand that? I will repeat. All members of “No Name” community, which would include the senior group and the junior group, will be welcomed.”
“Wa~” The Senior group children began cheering.
It was a reaction to be expected from the children as they have never left the Community grounds ever since the attack of the Demon Lord on their Community three years ago. Even if they were to leave the Community, it was only to collect water from the river outside the confinement of the Community’s boundary. This was because of the fear of getting kidnapped and sold off especially since there wasn’t any way for them to identify them as a member of “No Name”.
Thus to not give trouble or cause worry to their sole guardian, Kuro Usagi, they would not simply leave the boundaries of their Community and were constantly alert while living out their days in the Community.
For these children to receive the invitation to a harvest festival, it was no wonder why they would get this excited.
Though Lily continued to stand by Leticia’s side like a proper representative of the senior group, her prided two fox tails already betrayed her excitement with their energetic wagging.
Leticia who was also caught up in their mood recovered her wits clapped her hand to attract their attention back to her.
“Of course, this is an unprecedented treatment…. Don’t forget that this is only made possible by the feats of our masters--- Izayoi, Asuka and You having their contributions acknowledged. And it is also due to their hard work that the invitation letter includes all the members of the Community.” Leticia reminded them.
At the mention of the name of Izayoi and the others, the rowdy children became well behaved.
------ The three people summoned from foreign worlds outside of Little Garden.
Ever since the arrival of Izayoi, Kudou Asuka, Kasukabe You in the Community, the life of “No Name” community have undergone a total transformation that’s supposed to be only seen in fantasies.
The contribution of the Water Tree seedling to their Community’s dried up reservoir led to the revitalisation of their land, making it arable again. At the same time, they have also brought in glass lamps that would light up and warm the Community during the night.
Izayoi and the others* were the idols that the children revered. They were heroes in the children’s eyes.
“This invitation letter is the proof of trust that they have earned through hard work. Please remember to maintain the baseline of behaviour and etiquette upon reaching ‘Underwood’, for we wouldn’t want to sully the reputation that they have helped to build thus far, got it?”
“Yes, we understand!”
The children replied loudly in a jumble of voices that was almost enough to shake one’s eardrums to the point of bursting.
Leticia gave a wry smile that was mixed with a genuine hint of a smile that played on her lips as she started to dispatch them for the day’s tasks.
“During the duration that we are away from the Commmunity, the ‘Draco Greif Allance’ will be dispatch a sentry to look after our boundaries. So to welcome the guest, we shall be giving the residential area of the Community a thorough cleaning. Senior and Junior groups may start to sweep and clear out the trash. There’s no need to worry about your luggage for the other two maids and I will bring it over for you guys later. So focus on your tasks of cleaning up---- so let’s start!” Leticia clapped her hand to signal the start of their tasks.
With an energetic response, the children left to start their tasks. Only the maid Percher and Lily of the senior group stayed behind with Leticia.
Percher who stood beside Leticia watched the children move off to their tasks with annoyance showing in her eyes.
“How in the world do they find so much energy to accomplish their tasks so early in the mornings?”
“This is the responsibility that they carry as part of the Community. We should also get started before the order of candlestick racks from ‘Will o’ wisp’ arrives today.”
“Oh, Leticia-sama…” Lily started while wagging her two fox tails in a worried manner.
“Really sorry to interrupt you when you are busy. Can I have a little of your time?”
“No problem. What’s the matter, Lily?”
“Ac.. Actually, I have noticed something strange from the basement work room. Occasionally, there would besome strange noises that are coming out from there…..”
“That sounds bad and which work room is that?”
“Room number 360.”
Leticia tilted her head slightly in surprise.
“…… Room number 360? Why would it be in so isolated an area? Isn’t the work rooms that are related to housekeeping from room 1 to 20? The work rooms behind shouldn’t be in use.”
Leticia furrowed her eyebrows. Lily said she didn’t know why either and her fox ears had drooped.
----The so called work rooms were storage facilities for the Gifts earned from Gift games that could be incorporated into the daily life for the Community. Needless to say, the flames for the kitchen to keep it warm, clean water storages were part of those Gifts kept in the work room. Occasionally, Gift ceremonies would be held in the work room too. ‘Will o’ wisp’’s candle stick racks were storages for the Gift of flame and would also be placed in a work room if according to plan.
Other than shifting the candlestick racks, KuroUsagi did not mention of any other rituals being held in the work rooms. With that, Leticia would have dismissed the conversation as a misunderstanding if not for the worry that was shadowing Lily’s facial expression.
“Work Room 360 has an entrance that exactly opens up behind the quarters for the senior group. The echoes are also heard in the other quarters and the junior group are also frightened. So, Leticia –sama, would you mind finding time to investigate…..”
Lily was wringing her sleeves as she pleaded.
Leticia folded her arms and was in deep thought. Lily’s words rang true as the junior group were much younger kids and would definitely be frightened by the weird noises.
“Okay…… When everyone has left the Community, I will go and verify for myself.”
“Thank you!”
“It’s a small matter. Okay, let’s go clean up first. After all, even without our masters and KuroUsagi around, we still have to do complete our tasks well.”
“Yes!”
Lily wagged her two tails and replied in a voice that would not have lost to the enthusiasm of the other children before running off to the kitchen.
Percher who was listening to the whole conversation from the side, looked at Leticia.
“Leticia, you plan to skip out on the harvest festival?”
“….. How is it possible for me to attend?”
Leticia gave a wry smile.
It wasn’t too long ago that she had merged with the giant dragon due to the plot of some nefarious people.
Even if the culprit wasn’t her, the Leticia who had fought against her friends would not be able to forget the past and join the harvest festival. It would cause the host and the other guests to be unhappy.
“The harvest festival this time is a holiday for my masters. I would not want them to worry and be able to enjoy themselves there.”
Leticia forced a laugh as it felt awkward talking about it. But her eyes showed no signs of being troubled by it. Now that they have mutually accepted the role of the servant and master relationship, she only had one wish in her heart.
The wish that Izayoi and her other masters will be able to receive lots of Gifts and may luck shine upon them.
“…… Those who become Demon Lords will have to pay off the sins that they have accumulated in the past, no matter the methods. Some with their souls, some by seeking solace in religion, and many other types of methods… I used to give up trying to repent in the past. So from now on, I will chase after my masters and help them in the fight against Demon Lords to erase my sins.” Leticia clasped her petite hands together as she said this.
Percher looked at her with disinterested eyes, taking in her appearance that was of one that glowed with having found their road for repentance. Being a Demon Lord herself, the confession of Leticia should be piercing to her ears.
The Lecticia who has recovered her composure seemed to have remembered something else as worry crept into her narrowed eyes. “And…. I still want to investigate more about Canaria.”
“…Oh Really?”
Percher tilted her head slightly as she haven’t heard of that name before. But she was more concerned about another matter.
“Oh right. You mentioned that those few people aren’t around. I heard from Ren that they are staying in ‘Underwood’, but I didn’t know that KuroUsagi had also left the Community’s Boundary. Wasn’t she here just yesterday?”
“Eh? Oh, KuroUsagi….”
Leaving her sentence hanging in the air, Leticia remained silent even if it made Percher surprised by her unnatural response to her question. Continuing the silence, she looked towards the windows where the sunlight was beaming into the Community house.
“KuroUsagi…. Was kidnapped by Shiroyasha.” Leticia finished her sentence after a while.
“….what?”
“Yesterday night, Shiroyasha and her servant dropped by and grabbed KuroUsagi wilfully while saying ‘I will be going to check in on the old nest of The One who Flattens Heaven’” Leticia said with a faraway look in her eyes.
Percher was surprised but shrugged her shoulders in understanding as she smirked. “The Floor master is so carefree?”
“It can’t be that easy. There was a simultaneous attack of a demon lord Aži Dakahā [magref notes3] bringing his own division to wreck trouble in the East while the dragon raged in the South. Even though our region was spared, the repairs for Shirayuki-hime’s temple was delayed.” Leticia responded mysteriously.
The repairs of the temple should be the incident whereby water was displaced into a huge canal. However, what surprised Percher wasn’t the damage reports, but it was the name of the Demon Lord.
“ …….Wait. Demon Lord Aži Dakahā is the Demon Dragon that worships the Flame?” ( Note: Sounds like Aži Dahāka. The author has written it as Aži Dakaha. It may be on purpose by the author to make that error. This note is in the Mandarin Translation.)
“ That’s right.” Leticia answered immediately, causing Percher’s smile to fall slightly at the corners.
“ …..That can’t be true can it? Allowing that evil character to run freely around the Little Garden without a leash on its neck?”
“It isn’t possible. Azi Dakaha’s situation is special. Ever since the main body was released two hundred years ago, it has created a colony of clones that continued to roam free without anyone being able to restrain them up till today.”
“What’s that? Scary… Really terrifying. Wouldn’t it be better to get rid of the original before it replicate more of itself?”
“Nonsense. If the main body is attacked, the clones will multiply further. Moreover, the first generation are of [Divine] class. Just one of those would be able to create many other Demon Lords of Deity levels. How can one simply beat them down when they feel like it?”
------ Demon Lord Aži Dakaha is the dragon within the five demon lords that is revered by the “Fire Cult”.
This dragon was from the same source as Indra and boasts of three heads with a huge body. Legend has it that it is able to perform thousands of spells. Even so, the scary part doesn’t stop here.
The reason that the Demon Lord Aži Dahāka is so terrifying is that it keeps cloning from its wounds. In addition to the impressive vitality it has, it is useless no matter how many chops or punches one throws at it.
The only method to defeat this Demon Lord would be to seal it. However, the reason why it is able to roam free today is precisely because the seal had already been undone by someone.
“Even though I put it that way, to think of stopping the divisions…. The title of the strongest Floor master isn’t just for show. Even after returning her [Divinity] back to Buddha, she wiped out five of the first Gen Demon Lord Divisions with one strike. If not for her, the lower levels of East would be dyed red by the bloodbath of sacrifices.”
“…Oh.”
Percher replied indifferently. But within her heart, she was already having cold sweat.
To be able to defeat five Divine level Aži Dahāka First Generation, was already a power out of one’s imaginative ability. Percher having challenged Shiroyasha before and still able to live to tell the tale could be called incredibly lucky.
“But even if she is called the strongest Floor Master, the way she immerse herself in enjoyment is unacceptable.”
“Yea, you are right. When you put it that way, I wouldn’t be able to refute it.” Leticia’s expression was one that was placed in an awkward spot and she forced herself to laugh it off.
Percher nonchalantly headed off to start her tasks, leaving Leticia behind.
Silently watching Percher heading off, Leticia couldn’t help but notice a sense of unease within her heart.
Though she knew that KuroUsagi was with Shiroyasha, and that in itself is an assurance of KuroUsagi’s safety, she still felt a sense of foreboding.
It’s all because of the name that Shiroyasha mentioned that would plant a sense of foreboding in anyone when one relates the name of the place to the one that lives there.
[“The One who Flattens Heaven’s large encampment…… Even if Little Garden has a huge surface area, the only Community that will use this location… can only be the Bull Demon Lord and no other.]
And it isn’t to meet a former Demon Lord. But a Demon Lord that is known to hate other Demon Lords that throw in their lot with the Buddhist world.
What could Shiroyasha be planning….
After tossing the ideas around for a while, she was unable to get any other conclusion than “If it is her idea, it shouldn’t be something that I must read too much into.”
[After all, Shiroyasha is the strongest Floor Master. As long as she is around, KuroUsagi wouldn’t be in harm’s way.]
Shaking her golden hair, Leticia tried clearing the anxiety from her heart while clasping her hands together to pray for the pitiable KuroUsagi.
*
----*Ding Ling* Following the movement of her silver hair, the bells gave off a crisp jingle.
A breeze flowed down from the red clay tiles of the roof, bringing the smell of flowers that would have reminded one of being in a peach garden. They walked along the path where the bustle of daily life clamoured for attention all around them. A huge mansion stood ahead at the end of the path with the banners of the Community’s emblem being flown from its parapets to show the authority over the Outer Gate.
This was Little Garden’s Fourth level---Outer Gate Number 6243. Banners of “The Sage who Flattens Heaven” flew high and demarcated the higher Floor.
Just outside of the Community’s mansion stood a lady with two followers in tow. She stood in a stance befitting of a Door Guardian, with her silver hair that shone with its own brilliance that seemed to compete with the Sun.
“Haiz. How many years has it been since I last visited the headquarters of “The One who Flattens Heaven”?”
The Beautiful lady wore a purple wafuku with her silver hair pinned with Kanzashis [magref notes4] that had bells on its end.
If only that moment could stop for a little longer, it would look like a wonderful portrait. Unfortunately, there was a special aura that seemed to surround her.
….How should I describe it? To put it bluntly, it was the obaa-san aura.
Standing beside the beautiful silver haired lady, that had a polite and peaceful smile, was the ‘Thousand Eyes’ shop assistant of Outer Gate Number 2105380, and KuroUsagi who was shivering in fear with her ears pressed flat against her head.
“….The last time Shiroyasha-sama came to this place would be around 50years ago.” The question just now could only have been directed towards the shop assistant, so she grudgingly replied.
“Oh. So it seems. Time does fly by very quickly.” The silver haired beauty who laughed softly---- Shiroyasha turned back her head to look at her shop assistant as she replied.
She wore a smile that seemed like someone who was going to greet an old friend. This feeling wasn’t felt by the other two who were really tensed and fearful about being in this place.
The Community that resided here belonged to the upper levels of Little Garden. And it was one who’s known to be a strong Demon Lord since a long time ago.
Looking up at the flag flown from the mansion’s vantage point, they reaffirmed their determination.
[“The One who Flattens Heaven” Bull Demon Lord------ and Gorgeous Monkey King Sun Wu Kong had equal footing at the topmost of the Seven Great Demon King Rankings.]
As long as one is from Little Garden, they would have heard of his name.
Of the Seven Great Demon Kings described in The Journey to the West, four with powers so immense, that they are able to overshadow most other life forms, still exist and they are very well known in the realm of Little Garden.
“The Sage that Unite Heaven” -------------------------- Handsome Monkey God Sun Wu Kong.
“The Sage that Flattens Heaven”----------------------- Bull Demon King.
“The Sage that Devastate Seas” ---------------------- Saurian Demon King.
“The Sage that leaves Heaven in Disarray” -------- Roc Demon King.
Except for the Handsome Monkey God Sun Wu Kong who followed Xuanzang journey to the west and converted to Buddhism, all the other three have taken up the path of Demon Lords and continued to maintain their communities.
In spite of the fact that these Demon Lords have not committed any major evils since the time that all seven Great Demon Lords challenged Heavens to a battle, their names will always be remembered by those of the Little Garden that thinks of the term Demon Lords.
However, talking about Demon Lords, Shiroyasha still counts as one of the most befitting as an Elder Demon Lord.
Gazing at the flag fearlessly, she then looked around in disappointment.
“Let’s not talk about the lack of having someone to welcome us…. There’s totally not even a shadow of a living thing outside the doors. I clearly informed them before hand to prepare a banquet, but it seems that they aren’t too functional in the mind.” Shiroyasha sniffed in disgust.
KuroUsagi dropped her ears even further, as she started timidly. “Shiro, Shiroyasha sama…. This is to be expected. The fact that Bull Demon King hates the Buddhist World is common Knowledge and this is confirmed even by my ears. Even if you do not count me who works for Indra, Shiroyasha sama’s presence would also cause much irritation to them….” Nervously twitching her rabbit ears, KuroUsagi had held her heart in her mouth.
---Having his sworn sister Sun Wu Kong taken away by the Buddhist world, the emblem of the one who Unites Heaven destroyed, and his own son Spitfire (Hong HaiEr) has converted to Buddhism. It caused much talk on the street that the rest of the Yōkai Lords under his flag would have and an impassable gulf separating them from the Buddhist world.
Though Shiroyasha knows the existence of the gulf, she just shook her head. “No, KuroUsagi. It’s precisely the reason why I chose this time to visit. You would have heard of me returning my [Divinity] back to the Buddhist world, and that makes it the perfect time for me to be here.” Shiroyasha said while sweeping back her silver hair.
----- Originally, the [Divinity] title of “Shiroyasha” is obtained after her entry to the Buddhist World.
Being a “ShiroYoru” elf, she’s one of the Astral beings in Charge of the Sun’s orbit, and one who is able to sit on par with the Sun god. Even though she needn’t belong to a religion with her immense Spirit Power, she decided to take on the job of a Floor Master and use her position to help the lower levels. The only condition to do so would be the conversion to Buddhism as a means to restrain her powers.
In the previous Demon Lord attack, where she went on the defensive, Shiroyasha had returned her [Divinity] and hence appear to be a grown woman having lost the power to maintain her childlike form.
Silver hair that seemed to reflect light in a way that reminds one of the sunrays during sunrise. A heroic spirit that seems to surround her seemed to befit one with envious amount of Spiritual energy such as her.
Shiroyasha took in the sight of the headquarters silently. Her bells continued to jingle as a gust of wind blew from behind .
“There’s an unknown threat pressuring the lower levels. So as to maintain the peace of the lower levels, we would need the help of the strongest of the higher levels…. Bull Demon King’s strength. ‘The Sage who Flattens Heaven’ gathered six Demon Lords under his wing by his own strength. This is evidently no simple feat----I hope you will bravely present yourself, KuroUsagi.” Shiroyasha used a rarely seen powerful glare on KuroUsagi.
Facing such a different atmosphere, KuroUsagi straightened up and perked up her ears as she nodded in agreement. “Yes, understood. Since this concerns the safety of Little Garden, I swear that I will not back down on the pride of a ‘Moon Rabbit’. Even if I’m stabbed by knives in my sides, I will not retreat.”
“Keke, with that resolve, I’m relieved.”
“Yes! ♪ But what should KuroUsagi do then?”
“Oh, right. I have not explained to you right? So---- change into this costume!”
*Pak,pak!* Shiroyasha clapped her hands twice. Immediately, a costume that used little material in its makings appeared before KuroUsagi’s eyes. It was much more miniscule in size compared to the clothes she now wore.
KuroUsagi’s train of thoughts seemed to have pulled the emergency brakes and her rabbit ears were turning pale as blood seemed to drain out of them.
“Shiro...Shiroyasha sama? This, these clothes are?”
“Mhm! The date of recontract for the rights to being a judge is coming around soon! These are the clothes that I have prepared for you beforehand! So, pick one of these and use your cute seductiveness to entrance the Bull Demon Lord! Let’s start from the transparent tight one piece dress that comes with accessories such as a tie and netted stockings….”
“I’ve already refused those didn’t I, you horrible god!”
------*Xiu Pak!* KuroUsagi swung down her favourite paper fan with much vigour.
“Rea, Really! How can you talk nonsense after coming to this kind of place! Please state your real intentions for dragging me out to this place!”
“Hnh, you are the one who really can’t differentiate the place and time for stuff! I’m the strongest Floor Master Shiroyasha! I swear upon the Gods of Heaven and Earth that I’ve never taken my work lightly! With all my utmost! Even if it is a prank, I will also give it my all!”
“Are you an idiot? Arrrrrrgh---!”
*XiuPak-----!* KuroUsagi used strength that surpassed that of what she has used before to swing her paper fan downwards. Shiroyasha who wasn’t quick enough to dodge the attack was sent flying into the mansion’s outer wall ,following with the sound of an explosion, with her head embedded in the wall.
*
“ WuWu….. How can it be that you dislike the most sexy and cute outfit that I have chosen for you from my precious collection after much deliberation?”
“ …. I don’t care!”
KuroUsagi’s cheeks and ears were red and turned her face as she threw a small tantrum. The female shop assistant looked upon the two squabbling people with disdain. However, her facial expression changed to one that was tensed once they have entered the mansion.
[In spite of the [Divinity]’s return, word was that Bull Demon Lord harboured a hatred against the Buddhist World that could not be written off easily. Even though the possibility is small, I must be alert and ready at all times to prevent them from making any moves on Shiroyasha sama….]
Walking within the mansion, the female shop assistant had her anxiety plastered across her face while shifting her Gift card to be hidden within the sleeve of her wafuku.
Shiroyasha on the other hand, walks boldly into the mansion that was devoid of presences. Cold sweat had already started to soak the backs of the shop assistant and KuroUsagi who were still following her while taking much care about their steps.
“How is it that there isn’t anyone here, do they really have to be so unwelcoming towards us to this extent?”
At the corner of Shiroyasha’s mouth, her lips twitched slightly.
The mansion which would normally be bustling with life with the underlings of Bull Demon King rushing to and fro with their tasks would already seem spacious. Without their presence, it seemed much bigger and a little empty.
Though it felt quiet and empty, it was evident from signs of daily life still left behind from the surroundings that there was a recent evacuation. From the silence that cause one to feel at ill at ease, one can already deduce how guarded the other party is at the visit of Shiroyasha.
Passing the outer wall corridor, a sudden breeze carrying a light pleasant scent flowed pass them. The sight before them also gradually widen and brighten with light that streamed down from above.
The trio have arrived at the centre of the mansion. The Bull Demon King’s throne was just at the end of this walkway.
The imminent audience with the Bull Demon King caused KuroUsagi to feel more anxious, and she couldn’t help but look up at the sky to calm her nerves------
---- At this moment, a curious phenomenon descended from the sky.
“…. Sunlight?”
The ray of light in the air rapidly grew in intensity as it descended before them, from the original warmth of sunrays to a light of the furthest end on the infrared spectrum that could literally burn the skin with its intensity
A shadow of what may be the source of the heat shimmered in the glaring midst of the space it landed. However, the angle of refraction that they were at forbid them from having a clearer image.
Though the identity of the enemy was still unknown as with their powers, it was clearly an instigative attack on them.
“An ambush like we expected!”
“Shiroyasha sama, please stand back!”
KuroUsagi and the shop assistant quickly stood in front of Shiroyasha to shield her, only for Shiroyasha herself to stand with her both arms akimbo, authoritatively and challengingly looking at the attacker. From the body that continued to emit heat waves, one piece fell away, two, three pieces of gold glittery feathers that lightly spun as they fell to the ground.
Looking at the feathers, Shiroyasha immediately guessed the identity of the person and her expression changed to that of surprise.
“…… That’s surprising. Have you forgotten the letter of greeting, or were you unable to bear to let your sworn brother meet up with people who have close relations with the Buddhist world, Roc Demon King?”
“Eh?”
The sound escaped from KuroUsagi and the shop assistant at the same time.
In a flash, sunlight was converted to a stifling heat wave that covered the skies and illuminated the area.
“---- ShiroYouruOu, if only the guest didn’t include any others, I would not be this preposterous.”
The voice of a woman seemed to resound from the air above them.
Heat and light surrounded the inner court, gradually becoming golden flames that surrounded Shiroyasha and her entourage. The feathers that floated around lightly---- no, it was a whirlwind created from the movements of the blazing golden wings that hailed the entrance of the attacker.
The attacker had tied back her black hair, wearing an outfit embroidered with elegant designs that boldly exposed her back and arms. A pair of blazing golden wings could be seen on her back.
Having seen their attacker’s appearance, KuroUsagi and the shop assistant turned pale.
“A human appearance and those blazing golden wings….. could it be------ Great Garuda!”
“How can it be! The highest divine bird that is on par with the Juniten(12) Deva Guardians has fallen to become a Demon Lord…….”
Flames continued to surround the two who kept staring at the aggressor---- Roc Demon King with eyes that seemed to voice their surprise.
Still having cold sweat, the two hurriedly tried to ready their stance for an upcoming battle. However, Shiroyasha patted their shoulders, seemingly to signal them to calm down their hyped up tension.
“Well now, you two should just cool it. This person is undoubtedly a phoenix, but not of the purest lineage. She’s just a runaway royal princess.”
“….what?”
“Run, Runaway… Princess?”
“Roc Demon Lord?” Both of them asked at once, while looking her over calculatingly.
Much as her clothing and accessories look resplendent with their elegant designs, the bare back that exposed much of her skin, Roc Demon Lord’s appearance seemed youthful. Despite of the addition of makeup, the baby face under the cosmetics was still visible.
The glittery accessories that act as decorum for her soft and tender complexion.
In addition to the aura that she excludes from her dainty movement that shows her noble backgrounds.
[Picture] [2 goes here]
The cross between the two makes a powerful charm that could release worldly desires to commit sins.
Roc Demon King’s body excluded an aura that was different from the other Demon Lords and she seemed to detest being called “hime”. Walking over in a huff, she stared angrily at Shiroyasha.
“ShiroYouruOu, please know the limits and not use that kind of nickname. A thousand years have passed and the girl has since grown up. A princess would now be a queen by now.”
“Then you should also change the way you call me. I’m not a Demon Lord anymore. If you do not agree…Hmph, I will just follow your lead and call you like how I used to a thousand years ago. Calling you in front of others in a loving voice ‘Jia Ling chan ♪’------”
In a flash, the flames of the surroundings rushed towards Shiroyasha and the others.
Flames of the Golden Wing is a Gift of the highest order that is often used against Gods and Dragons for it can disintegrate anything that it touches.
Even then, those flames that should reduce people to nothingness---- were collected within the palm of Shiroyasha, without letting the heat escape from her grasp.
[Flame…Flame of the Golden Wing was so easily….]
The legendary Flame of the Golden Wing that was rumoured to be stronger than that of the flames of Hell has coagulated in a clump within Shiroyasha’s palm before it was pinched into powder. Shiroyasha who had returned her [Divinity] could now utilise her original Astral Spiritual powers and would be more than a match for Roc Demon King.
KuroUsagi who had collapsed on the floor just from the heat waves, held her breath as she watched the confrontation.
The kind of heat that she wouldn’t dream to try touching with her own power was that easily crushed by Shiroyasha to nonexistence. It is evident from this that those who live a Demon Lord’s existence can crush others while having an enjoyable conversation within a flash.
It is only now that KuroUsagi realised how terrible a place she has been brought to and her ears immediately pressed against the side of her head.
Roc Demon Lord’s brows rose slightly for a while after attacking Shiroyasha. Though her veins started to become more prominent due to her anger, she still kept her attitude of being authoritative as she continued the tongue fight.
“…..Heh. Seems like you are just as monstrous as ever, ShiroYouruOu.”
“Then that means you are just a little runt too, Jia Ling chan?”
Shiroyasha replied while laughing, clearly not caring about her choice of words.
A few more veins became more evident on the face of Roc Demon King, but she realised that a battle of tongues would not lead her anywhere and decided to leave it as that. She then dismissed the heat wave that seemed to feel like the burning of phosphorus with her flaming golden wings.
The two followers scrambled to their feet in embarrassment having collapsed on the ground from the series of events, and only just returning to their senses.
[Little did I expect her to be a princess of the Garuda lineage. It is said that Roc Demon King’s rank is only around the middle of the Seven Great Demon Kings……]
One can already deduce how monstrous the other six Demon Kings are.
What would the power of “The Sage that Flattens Heaven” ----the oldest of the Seven Great Demon Kings, whom they are going to meet, be like? Just imagining was able to cause one to feel chilly down their spines and shiver involuntarily.
Roc Demon King gave a sidelong glance at KuroUsagi before turning her gaze back to Shiroyasha.
“What is your business with my Big Brother? If it were only you who have returned your [Divinity], it would have been more forgivable. You just had to bring Indra’s toy into the headquarters of “The One that Flattens Heaven”…. This is a preposterous action enough for us to assume your declaration of war.”
“Oh, GomeGome(very sorry). I also have my difficult circumstances. I will explain after we go in, so would you please help to lead the way to the throne room?”
Shiroyasha stepped forward a little as she smiled warmly, seeming to try shield KuroUsagi with herself. They expected Roc Demon King to use violence again but she only gave a sheepish expression as she replied.
“….Sorry to say, my Big Brother isn’t in.”
“What did you say?”
This answer was definitely beyond Shiroyasha’s expectations.
Roc Demon King folded her arms after arranging her sleeves while she narrated the reason for his absence.
“Ever since Big Brother left to help out the ‘Onihime’ Alliance about half a month ago, he hasn’t been back. However, Brother has always been like this, and most likely to be enjoying himself somewhere now.”
“Ho, How can this be…..”
Shiroyasha stuttered in shock.
This was an answer that even Shiroyasha had not expected.
------ She had heard of the Bull Demon King’s departure to help the ‘Onihime’ Alliance and the North floor Master in the simultaneous attack of the Demon Lords half a month ago, but she had also received the reports that he had left quickly after defeating the demon lords. And so she had thought that Bull Demon King would have returned to his Community.
“Then your presence in this place is for?”
“Well, his advisors begged me to help my Big Brother welcome you. And we had actually readied a banquet…. Since you had to bring the livestock of the Buddhist World to this abode, I have no choice but to let it go to waste.”
“……Wu!”
Roc Demon King used her sleeve to cover her mouth as she shot an insulted look towards KuroUsagi.
Even though KuroUsagi has an amicable character, but being the target of insults one after another, her brows had furrowed in anger. After all, she was still one of the “Little Garden nobles” that had a long history in Little Garden. Not using her powers did not mean that she lacked pride or self-appreciation.
KuroUsagi stepped forward a step, planning to give a piece of her mind back at the other party-----
“Why? DO YOU INTEND TO CHALLENGE ME, ‘Moon Rabbit’?”
------ KuroUsagi rapidly retreated 3 steps back, with her rabbit ears flopping down.
The scene was like that of a snake staring till the frog retreated------No, it was a rabbit being stared into retreating by an eagle.
Let’s not mention about Shiroyasha. Even the shop assistant gave an icy glare at KuroUsagi who backed away so quickly from the challenge.
“KuroUsagi that was seriously an embarrassment.”
“That’s right. That’s why you are called by your companions as ‘Little Garden Noble (lol)’.” [magref notes5]
“No, it’s not like that! It’s just a tactical retreat since I remembered that Indra and Garuda’s attributes are not able to have a good compatibility in a fight.---- Wait, how did you know of that nickname Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!”
KuroUsagi gave a moan from her soul. The shop assistant on the other hand froze for a moment before continuing:
“…. Huh? You mean that it is really the case that you are called ‘Little Garden Noble (lol)’?”
“-----Huh?” This time it was KuroUsagi’s turn to freeze on the spot.
It would seem that the shop assistant’s surprise wasn’t feigned.
In other words, the words she used “just happen to be similar by coincidence”.
The lineage of “Moon Rabbits” with long history in Little Garden is now getting called that with the addition of ‘lol’……Though the shop assistant didn’t ask further, her expressions betrayed her thoughts.
And it was that pure gaze of puzzlement that cut deeper into KuroUsagi’s pride.
“….Gu, GuWu…. Wa, Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa----------!”
With such a serious blow to her pride that she had never experienced before, KuroUsagi broke down into tears while running back the way they came, continuing her weird wail as she ran.
Not expecting this turn of events, the shop assistant had a panicky expression as she watched the fleeing back of KuroUsagi. Shiroyasha’s response was also out of the norm as she waved her right hand while feeling a headache from this trouble.
“Haiz, I’m going to be fine here. You better go catch and coax KuroUsagi to come back. She must have worked too hard in the past few days and accumulated too much stress that exploded today.”
“G… Got it.”
Giving a respectful glace at Roc Demon King as she took her leave, she broke into a small jog in the same direction where KuroUsagi had fled to.
Roc Demon King who had been out of the picture for a moment continued to be in a daze for a while longer before regaining her bearings after seeing the backs of those two disappear from her sight.
“…… It would seem that the one that you have brought is a very strange mutation.”
“Really? The rabbits that I know of are mostly like this.”
“Is it?” Roc Demon King doubtfully cocked her head to one side.
Shiroyasha sighed in asperation as she gazed up at the banner of “The One that Flattens Heaven”.
“But, this is a real headache. To be unable to meet with the first candidate I have in mind: Bull Demon King… might as well pass it to those little rascals and be done with it…… No, not good. It is still too early for them……” Shiroyasha muttered for a while.
Perhaps the departure of KuroUsagi made Roc Demon King feel more comfortable, her tone had warmed and softened a little. “Regardless, I have to apologize for the fact that my brother is unable to welcome you personally. I will help you take the message for him till he returns.”
“No, This matter will have no meaning if I do not do it personally. Moreover, I do not have the time. Since I do not know when he will be back, I will just have to find another candidate……”
“Candidate?”
“Yea.” Shiroyasha nodded her head vigorously.
Pausing for a moment to consider if her words would be appropriate to be told to others, she continued after concluding that it did not matter if it was made known----
“I ….. decided to temporarily resign from the position of Floor Master of the East sector.”
“……What?” Roc Demon King showed an unsurpassed amount of shock on her face upon hearing those words.
But in afterthought, this decision was only plausible. Shiroyasha had once been branded with the deeds of a Demon Lord. It was only due to having converted to the Buddhist World on the promise of becoming a kind deity that she obtained the rights to govern the lower levels.
Currently, Shiroyasha has lost her backing.
It is only expected for her movements to be restricted after returning her [Divinity].
“That’s why I needed someone to help me take on the job with sufficient power to be a “Floor Master”.”
Shiroyasha’s words held a sense of unshakeable determination and decisiveness that included the weight of the responsibilities that was comparable to Mount Tai in stress and load. The severity of the atmosphere caused Roc Demon King to intake a breath as she guessed the meaning of Shiroyasha’s words.
“But after resigning from being the Floor Master….. shouldn’t you be going back to your former level in Little Garden and not here in the level 4 area?”
“Sorry, I still have another reason that I cannot tell you about…… Wherever I go to is not the problem but the need for a distinguished Floor master is indispensable.”
“And your point?”
“Hmh…. Currently the ‘Floor Master’ s other than me would be ‘Salamandra’, ‘OniHime’ Alliance and ‘Draco Greif’ Alliance that are still active. And their leaders are lacking a Demon Lord with much battle experience. So long as a situation of a huge scale occurs, I won’t be able to deal with it by myself.”
They were all from level five Communities and Alliances that boasted of their numbers. Within the middle levels, they were definitely a power to be reckon with, even countable within the Highest of the middle levels, with cohesiveness capable of dealing with Demon Lords. However when pitted with a Demon Lord, the number of casualties would always exceed imagination.
Just like the previous encounter where there was a simultaneous attack by Demon Lords, they were ill prepared to deal with the situation with their capabilities.
And to lose the strongest “Floor Master”, Shiroyasha, at this critical time would be very dangerous.
“Hence, I chose an experienced, knowledgeable and professional at Demon Lord games---- your sworn brother: Bull Demon King.”
Unfortunately, the most suitable candidate wasn’t at home.
If it were him who had rushed to the aid of ‘Onihime’ Alliance when they were in need--------- it was the hope that she had, but the result was like using a wicker basket to fetch water----a futile effort.
The irritated and troubled Shiroyasha sank into deep thought as she tried to think up of another candidate.
But her thoughts was interrupted by the following words.
“…. Really? Since it seems like a hot matter, I will not withhold from you any longer.”
“What are you talking about?”
Shiroyasha asked in reflex. Roc Demon King remained silent but seemed to have given in as she took out a letter that she threw to Shiroyasha.
“This is something that the counsellor wanted me to pass to you-----“THIS IS THE LETTER THAT WAS WRITTEN TO SHIROYASHA BEFORE BULL EMPEROR LEFT TO PROVIDE AID’.”
“Wha…”
Shiroyasha was stumped for words this time.
If she told the truth, it would mean that Bull Demon King had predicted her visit. Moreover that letter had the wax seal emblem of ‘The One who Flatten Heavens’.
It would seem that there wasn’t a need to doubt any further. It was a letter written personally by Bull Demon King for Shiroyasha.
[ He was able to guess my visit?]
Knitting her brows together, she opened the letter in surprise.
Written in a line of untidy words----
“A Budding successor lies within the Southern Great Tree. May the lord make a trip yonder.”
The words were succinct without any extra details.
Shiroyasha read the line for two or three times, before feeling enlightened----- With that, she gave off a laugh that sounded like a cheer.
“Hahahah…… ‘The Sage that Flatten Heavens’ predicted the future even from a distance of a thousand miles! Looks like that old youth still has much tactics up his sleeve and still remains as sharp as ever!”
Shiroyasha clutched her sides as she burst into laughter.
…… Her judgement hadn’t been wrong. This piece of credibility has just strengthen it.
Happily turning back the way she came, her long silver hair spread outwards like an opened harisen.
“You have helped out lots, Jia Ling chan! Thanks to you, I have found a sliver of light! I will prepare a present for you in the meantime!”
“……Since you want to express your gratitude, then stop calling me “Jia Ling chan” already.”
Roc Demon King retorted in exasperation as her shoulders drooped slightly. But Shiroyasha continued to laugh as she walked the way back.
*Ding Ling* ---- Leaving a clear and crisp jingle of the bell that hung in the air, Shiroyasha walked briskly out of the headquarters of ‘The One that Flatten Heavens’.
END OF PROLOGUE
[magref notes2]The use of the group term ‘Izayoi and the others’……….*Don’t blame me for this… it is clearly the fault of the author for wanting Izayoi to be the main character and Asuka, You to be sidelined as ‘the others’. Not that I do not agree with it…. I actually like it this way too! Especially the part where Leticia specially named Izayoi and the other masters.
[magref notes3]Aži Dahāka is some demonic ancient dragon of Avesta. An ancient Iranian folklore. Azi is the Avestan word for serpent/dragon. Dahaka is more ambiguous: stinging/burning/manlike/huge/foreign in many other languages
[magref notes4] Kanzashi is a term for hair ornaments
[magref notes5] Little Garden Noble[lol] --- lol stands for Laugh Out Loud. Lol has a more teasing connotation than laugh/shame. And the word had more teasing than about shame.
----Outer Gate number 2105380, [No Name] Community, Residential Area
The pleasant golden hue of sunlight filtered into the room as Leticia, in her maid outfit, sat beside the window tying her braids. Placing her comb on the dressing table, she contemplated over the reflection of herself in the mirror.
“……I guess I’m good to go. I’m also getting more comfortable with this maid outfit too.”
Leticia swayed her head from left to right to check her hair for a final time, causing her silky golden hair to glitter as they catch the sunlight.
She seemed like a twelve year old in a clean and neatly worn maid outfit. Although cute flowery frills that line the hems were of no practical use nor did it comply with the idea of a proper maid attire, it looked very charming on her. And that could only be the materialisation of her master’s fetish.
Leticia stood with arms akimbo, staring at the completion of her make-up in the mirror’s reflection, silently encouraging herself as her way to start the day.
Just then, a gentle knocking came at her door.
“Leticia-sama, the others from the senior group have gathered.”
“Got it, Lily. I will take charge of calling Percher [magref notes1]. Just wait for me at the hall.”
Lily gave an energetic response of having heard Leticia’s words before departing from the doorway.
Listening to Lily’s energetic voice and movements, Leticia couldn’t help but smile fondly as Lily’s optimism and enthusiasm rubbed off on her.
-----The residential area of the “No Name” community was a building of twelve storeys. With level of the building being representative of the position one holds in the community, the rooms get more spacious and well furnished with each level.
Currently, there’s no one living in the quarters above the third storey. It’s definitely not because of a lack of people with the calibre needed to reach the positions in the community. But more of convenience that the building has accommodated its members up to the third storey.
Leticia’s former bed chamber was at the 10th storey. However, it would be unbecoming for a maid to be quartered in a bedroom over that of her masters. And so, she currently takes her residence in a room for one, beside the kitchen and the pantry.
“If I remember correctly, Shirayuki-hime has left with Izayoi and the others. Seems like I can only share my workload with Percher today…” [magref notes2]
Making a beeline for Percher’s bedroom, she walked briskly pass the Community’s intersection of roads in the hall.
However, she suddenly stopped her footsteps when she caught a glimpse of herself in a mirror that happen to be in the corridor for members to regularly check their appearances in. Seemingly entranced by the sight of her own reflection----
“Hmm-----”
Leticia seemed to be reminiscing a good memory as she gently lifted her skirts slightly and spun on the spot like an innocent teenage girl.
The clean white dress hems fluttered as they got caught in the momentum of her spin, strikingly similar to the blossoming of a flower.
And she spun for a second time before a smile of satisfaction spread across her lips.
“At first, I was against the idea of wearing such an outfit…” Leticia smiled as she continued looking at her reflection in the mirror. “But I guess it does have its own charms…”
“Lecticia! What are you doing in front of the mirror?”
Lecticia’s body froze. Beads of cold sweat were forming out of shame as she knew that the damage had already been done.
What a painful mistake to make, Leticia could only blame it on the peaceful atmosphere that caused her to drop her guard to this extent. But remaining frozen wasn’t an option for Leticia either.
Barely containing her trembles, she turned to face Percher------“God of BlackDeath”, the other maid who walked out from her bedroom.
Percher had cocked her head to a side seemingly appraising Lecticia as though she found something strange.
Lecticia, who had been dancing just a little while ago, awkwardly turned her eyes away, unable to meet Percher’s gaze.
“Heys, Leticia? What’s wrong with you? Your face is really red. Are you okay?”
“……. Nothing, I’m fine. As long as you didn’t see it.”
“But your ears are red too?”
“I already said that it’s nothing!”
“You are going red all the way to the neck too?”
“Hnh, yeah! Just feeling a little high on the blood pressure today than compared to normal days! It’s what I get for being a vampire! Mornings that I awake to feeling this flustered and red are just….”
“Your age and outfit really match perfectly, so don’t be so shy about it! Moreover, your make-up is so cute too.”
Percher made it seem like a victorious proclamation before making her way to the dining hall.
Lecticia’s energy also seemed to have left her as she watched the retreating shadow of Percher, her shoulders drooping slightly.
*
---- Half a month have passed since the end of the battle with the huge dragon.
The members of ‘No Name’ community continued to busy themselves with various activities while enjoying the peace and freedom of normal life.
Lecticia, originally the Demon Lord that hosted the Gift game, has officially become a servant together with two other maids to be in charge of the senior group.
‘Underwood’ ‘s harvest festival was postponed due to the dragon’s attack, but due to large amount of support from “Thousand Eyes” and other volunteers, the date to resume the celebration has been confirmed.
South had also officially announced the electing of a new Floor Master and invited many guests from the other communities. The Draco Greif Alliance having contributed a lot to the defeat of a Demon Lord would be the most likely candidate to be elected to take the position.
[picture][1 goes here]
At the same time, “Willo’ wisp” and ‘No Name’ have also shared in the honour of having defeated a Demon Lord and are now acknowledged by communities for their fighting prowess.
[Thanks must be given to Sala. Her thoughtfulness to specially advertise for our community’s ‘No Name’ with the last Demon Lord Battle]
Even if much contributions and feats were accomplished, the ‘No Name’ community lacked an emblem to be officially acknowledged. Sala, the alliance leader, had taken that factor into account and wrote of ‘No Name’ ‘s accomplishments in her invitation letters for the resumption of the harvest festival.
Their honesty and kindness helped Leticia regain her composure as she pushed forward into the Community’s hallway. The children were already in their neat files, awaiting Leticia’s arrival. Lily, the one responsible for falling them in, perked her fox ears upon her entrance and ran over with her overalls rustling with her movements.
“Leticia-sama! Good Morning! The senior group have gathered!”
“Really. Good Morning everyone. Eaten breakfast yet?”
“Yes! It was really good too!”
“Today’s dish is Omelette rice!”
“I already can’t wait to eat lunch!”
“It’s still too early.”
Leticia smiled wryly while telling off that energetic kid.
There were a total of twenty kids that averaged at the age of 10 that made up the senior group which purpose was to be in charge of the Community’s food and lodgings. Their energetic selves in the early morning seemingly prepared to face the day’s tasks ahead was really heart-warming yet sad. Leticia smiled as she gazed upon them.
“Well then, let’s start dividing the tasks for the day… but I have something to tell everyone before that.”
With that, Leticia took out an invitation letter that had the wax seal emblem of the Draco Greif Alliance stamped on it. Holding the letter, she looked at the children seriously.
“The harvest festival hosted at ‘Underwood’ ‘s great waterfall has extended its invitation to welcome all members of “No Name” community… did you guys understand that? I will repeat. All members of “No Name” community, which would include the senior group and the junior group, will be welcomed.”
“Wa~” The Senior group children began cheering.
It was a reaction to be expected from the children as they have never left the Community grounds ever since the attack of the Demon Lord on their Community three years ago. Even if they were to leave the Community, it was only to collect water from the river outside the confinement of the Community’s boundary. This was because of the fear of getting kidnapped and sold off especially since there wasn’t any way for them to identify them as a member of “No Name”.
Thus to not give trouble or cause worry to their sole guardian, Kuro Usagi, they would not simply leave the boundaries of their Community and were constantly alert while living out their days in the Community.
For these children to receive the invitation to a harvest festival, it was no wonder why they would get this excited.
Though Lily continued to stand by Leticia’s side like a proper representative of the senior group, her prided two fox tails already betrayed her excitement with their energetic wagging.
Leticia who was also caught up in their mood recovered her wits clapped her hand to attract their attention back to her.
“Of course, this is an unprecedented treatment…. Don’t forget that this is only made possible by the feats of our masters--- Izayoi, Asuka and You having their contributions acknowledged. And it is also due to their hard work that the invitation letter includes all the members of the Community.” Leticia reminded them.
At the mention of the name of Izayoi and the others, the rowdy children became well behaved.
------ The three people summoned from foreign worlds outside of Little Garden.
Ever since the arrival of Izayoi, Kudou Asuka, Kasukabe You in the Community, the life of “No Name” community have undergone a total transformation that’s supposed to be only seen in fantasies.
The contribution of the Water Tree seedling to their Community’s dried up reservoir led to the revitalisation of their land, making it arable again. At the same time, they have also brought in glass lamps that would light up and warm the Community during the night.
Izayoi and the others* were the idols that the children revered. They were heroes in the children’s eyes.
“This invitation letter is the proof of trust that they have earned through hard work. Please remember to maintain the baseline of behaviour and etiquette upon reaching ‘Underwood’, for we wouldn’t want to sully the reputation that they have helped to build thus far, got it?”
“Yes, we understand!”
The children replied loudly in a jumble of voices that was almost enough to shake one’s eardrums to the point of bursting.
Leticia gave a wry smile that was mixed with a genuine hint of a smile that played on her lips as she started to dispatch them for the day’s tasks.
“During the duration that we are away from the Commmunity, the ‘Draco Greif Allance’ will be dispatch a sentry to look after our boundaries. So to welcome the guest, we shall be giving the residential area of the Community a thorough cleaning. Senior and Junior groups may start to sweep and clear out the trash. There’s no need to worry about your luggage for the other two maids and I will bring it over for you guys later. So focus on your tasks of cleaning up---- so let’s start!” Leticia clapped her hand to signal the start of their tasks.
With an energetic response, the children left to start their tasks. Only the maid Percher and Lily of the senior group stayed behind with Leticia.
Percher who stood beside Leticia watched the children move off to their tasks with annoyance showing in her eyes.
“How in the world do they find so much energy to accomplish their tasks so early in the mornings?”
“This is the responsibility that they carry as part of the Community. We should also get started before the order of candlestick racks from ‘Will o’ wisp’ arrives today.”
“Oh, Leticia-sama…” Lily started while wagging her two fox tails in a worried manner.
“Really sorry to interrupt you when you are busy. Can I have a little of your time?”
“No problem. What’s the matter, Lily?”
“Ac.. Actually, I have noticed something strange from the basement work room. Occasionally, there would besome strange noises that are coming out from there…..”
“That sounds bad and which work room is that?”
“Room number 360.”
Leticia tilted her head slightly in surprise.
“…… Room number 360? Why would it be in so isolated an area? Isn’t the work rooms that are related to housekeeping from room 1 to 20? The work rooms behind shouldn’t be in use.”
Leticia furrowed her eyebrows. Lily said she didn’t know why either and her fox ears had drooped.
----The so called work rooms were storage facilities for the Gifts earned from Gift games that could be incorporated into the daily life for the Community. Needless to say, the flames for the kitchen to keep it warm, clean water storages were part of those Gifts kept in the work room. Occasionally, Gift ceremonies would be held in the work room too. ‘Will o’ wisp’’s candle stick racks were storages for the Gift of flame and would also be placed in a work room if according to plan.
Other than shifting the candlestick racks, KuroUsagi did not mention of any other rituals being held in the work rooms. With that, Leticia would have dismissed the conversation as a misunderstanding if not for the worry that was shadowing Lily’s facial expression.
“Work Room 360 has an entrance that exactly opens up behind the quarters for the senior group. The echoes are also heard in the other quarters and the junior group are also frightened. So, Leticia –sama, would you mind finding time to investigate…..”
Lily was wringing her sleeves as she pleaded.
Leticia folded her arms and was in deep thought. Lily’s words rang true as the junior group were much younger kids and would definitely be frightened by the weird noises.
“Okay…… When everyone has left the Community, I will go and verify for myself.”
“Thank you!”
“It’s a small matter. Okay, let’s go clean up first. After all, even without our masters and KuroUsagi around, we still have to do complete our tasks well.”
“Yes!”
Lily wagged her two tails and replied in a voice that would not have lost to the enthusiasm of the other children before running off to the kitchen.
Percher who was listening to the whole conversation from the side, looked at Leticia.
“Leticia, you plan to skip out on the harvest festival?”
“….. How is it possible for me to attend?”
Leticia gave a wry smile.
It wasn’t too long ago that she had merged with the giant dragon due to the plot of some nefarious people.
Even if the culprit wasn’t her, the Leticia who had fought against her friends would not be able to forget the past and join the harvest festival. It would cause the host and the other guests to be unhappy.
“The harvest festival this time is a holiday for my masters. I would not want them to worry and be able to enjoy themselves there.”
Leticia forced a laugh as it felt awkward talking about it. But her eyes showed no signs of being troubled by it. Now that they have mutually accepted the role of the servant and master relationship, she only had one wish in her heart.
The wish that Izayoi and her other masters will be able to receive lots of Gifts and may luck shine upon them.
“…… Those who become Demon Lords will have to pay off the sins that they have accumulated in the past, no matter the methods. Some with their souls, some by seeking solace in religion, and many other types of methods… I used to give up trying to repent in the past. So from now on, I will chase after my masters and help them in the fight against Demon Lords to erase my sins.” Leticia clasped her petite hands together as she said this.
Percher looked at her with disinterested eyes, taking in her appearance that was of one that glowed with having found their road for repentance. Being a Demon Lord herself, the confession of Leticia should be piercing to her ears.
The Lecticia who has recovered her composure seemed to have remembered something else as worry crept into her narrowed eyes. “And…. I still want to investigate more about Canaria.”
“…Oh Really?”
Percher tilted her head slightly as she haven’t heard of that name before. But she was more concerned about another matter.
“Oh right. You mentioned that those few people aren’t around. I heard from Ren that they are staying in ‘Underwood’, but I didn’t know that KuroUsagi had also left the Community’s Boundary. Wasn’t she here just yesterday?”
“Eh? Oh, KuroUsagi….”
Leaving her sentence hanging in the air, Leticia remained silent even if it made Percher surprised by her unnatural response to her question. Continuing the silence, she looked towards the windows where the sunlight was beaming into the Community house.
“KuroUsagi…. Was kidnapped by Shiroyasha.” Leticia finished her sentence after a while.
“….what?”
“Yesterday night, Shiroyasha and her servant dropped by and grabbed KuroUsagi wilfully while saying ‘I will be going to check in on the old nest of The One who Flattens Heaven’” Leticia said with a faraway look in her eyes.
Percher was surprised but shrugged her shoulders in understanding as she smirked. “The Floor master is so carefree?”
“It can’t be that easy. There was a simultaneous attack of a demon lord Aži Dakahā [magref notes3] bringing his own division to wreck trouble in the East while the dragon raged in the South. Even though our region was spared, the repairs for Shirayuki-hime’s temple was delayed.” Leticia responded mysteriously.
The repairs of the temple should be the incident whereby water was displaced into a huge canal. However, what surprised Percher wasn’t the damage reports, but it was the name of the Demon Lord.
“ …….Wait. Demon Lord Aži Dakahā is the Demon Dragon that worships the Flame?” ( Note: Sounds like Aži Dahāka. The author has written it as Aži Dakaha. It may be on purpose by the author to make that error. This note is in the Mandarin Translation.)
“ That’s right.” Leticia answered immediately, causing Percher’s smile to fall slightly at the corners.
“ …..That can’t be true can it? Allowing that evil character to run freely around the Little Garden without a leash on its neck?”
“It isn’t possible. Azi Dakaha’s situation is special. Ever since the main body was released two hundred years ago, it has created a colony of clones that continued to roam free without anyone being able to restrain them up till today.”
“What’s that? Scary… Really terrifying. Wouldn’t it be better to get rid of the original before it replicate more of itself?”
“Nonsense. If the main body is attacked, the clones will multiply further. Moreover, the first generation are of [Divine] class. Just one of those would be able to create many other Demon Lords of Deity levels. How can one simply beat them down when they feel like it?”
------ Demon Lord Aži Dakaha is the dragon within the five demon lords that is revered by the “Fire Cult”.
This dragon was from the same source as Indra and boasts of three heads with a huge body. Legend has it that it is able to perform thousands of spells. Even so, the scary part doesn’t stop here.
The reason that the Demon Lord Aži Dahāka is so terrifying is that it keeps cloning from its wounds. In addition to the impressive vitality it has, it is useless no matter how many chops or punches one throws at it.
The only method to defeat this Demon Lord would be to seal it. However, the reason why it is able to roam free today is precisely because the seal had already been undone by someone.
“Even though I put it that way, to think of stopping the divisions…. The title of the strongest Floor master isn’t just for show. Even after returning her [Divinity] back to Buddha, she wiped out five of the first Gen Demon Lord Divisions with one strike. If not for her, the lower levels of East would be dyed red by the bloodbath of sacrifices.”
“…Oh.”
Percher replied indifferently. But within her heart, she was already having cold sweat.
To be able to defeat five Divine level Aži Dahāka First Generation, was already a power out of one’s imaginative ability. Percher having challenged Shiroyasha before and still able to live to tell the tale could be called incredibly lucky.
“But even if she is called the strongest Floor Master, the way she immerse herself in enjoyment is unacceptable.”
“Yea, you are right. When you put it that way, I wouldn’t be able to refute it.” Leticia’s expression was one that was placed in an awkward spot and she forced herself to laugh it off.
Percher nonchalantly headed off to start her tasks, leaving Leticia behind.
Silently watching Percher heading off, Leticia couldn’t help but notice a sense of unease within her heart.
Though she knew that KuroUsagi was with Shiroyasha, and that in itself is an assurance of KuroUsagi’s safety, she still felt a sense of foreboding.
It’s all because of the name that Shiroyasha mentioned that would plant a sense of foreboding in anyone when one relates the name of the place to the one that lives there.
[“The One who Flattens Heaven’s large encampment…… Even if Little Garden has a huge surface area, the only Community that will use this location… can only be the Bull Demon Lord and no other.]
And it isn’t to meet a former Demon Lord. But a Demon Lord that is known to hate other Demon Lords that throw in their lot with the Buddhist world.
What could Shiroyasha be planning….
After tossing the ideas around for a while, she was unable to get any other conclusion than “If it is her idea, it shouldn’t be something that I must read too much into.”
[After all, Shiroyasha is the strongest Floor Master. As long as she is around, KuroUsagi wouldn’t be in harm’s way.]
Shaking her golden hair, Leticia tried clearing the anxiety from her heart while clasping her hands together to pray for the pitiable KuroUsagi.
*
----*Ding Ling* Following the movement of her silver hair, the bells gave off a crisp jingle.
A breeze flowed down from the red clay tiles of the roof, bringing the smell of flowers that would have reminded one of being in a peach garden. They walked along the path where the bustle of daily life clamoured for attention all around them. A huge mansion stood ahead at the end of the path with the banners of the Community’s emblem being flown from its parapets to show the authority over the Outer Gate.
This was Little Garden’s Fourth level---Outer Gate Number 6243. Banners of “The Sage who Flattens Heaven” flew high and demarcated the higher Floor.
Just outside of the Community’s mansion stood a lady with two followers in tow. She stood in a stance befitting of a Door Guardian, with her silver hair that shone with its own brilliance that seemed to compete with the Sun.
“Haiz. How many years has it been since I last visited the headquarters of “The One who Flattens Heaven”?”
The Beautiful lady wore a purple wafuku with her silver hair pinned with Kanzashis [magref notes4] that had bells on its end.
If only that moment could stop for a little longer, it would look like a wonderful portrait. Unfortunately, there was a special aura that seemed to surround her.
….How should I describe it? To put it bluntly, it was the obaa-san aura.
Standing beside the beautiful silver haired lady, that had a polite and peaceful smile, was the ‘Thousand Eyes’ shop assistant of Outer Gate Number 2105380, and KuroUsagi who was shivering in fear with her ears pressed flat against her head.
“….The last time Shiroyasha-sama came to this place would be around 50years ago.” The question just now could only have been directed towards the shop assistant, so she grudgingly replied.
“Oh. So it seems. Time does fly by very quickly.” The silver haired beauty who laughed softly---- Shiroyasha turned back her head to look at her shop assistant as she replied.
She wore a smile that seemed like someone who was going to greet an old friend. This feeling wasn’t felt by the other two who were really tensed and fearful about being in this place.
The Community that resided here belonged to the upper levels of Little Garden. And it was one who’s known to be a strong Demon Lord since a long time ago.
Looking up at the flag flown from the mansion’s vantage point, they reaffirmed their determination.
[“The One who Flattens Heaven” Bull Demon Lord------ and Gorgeous Monkey King Sun Wu Kong had equal footing at the topmost of the Seven Great Demon King Rankings.]
As long as one is from Little Garden, they would have heard of his name.
Of the Seven Great Demon Kings described in The Journey to the West, four with powers so immense, that they are able to overshadow most other life forms, still exist and they are very well known in the realm of Little Garden.
“The Sage that Unite Heaven” -------------------------- Handsome Monkey God Sun Wu Kong.
“The Sage that Flattens Heaven”----------------------- Bull Demon King.
“The Sage that Devastate Seas” ---------------------- Saurian Demon King.
“The Sage that leaves Heaven in Disarray” -------- Roc Demon King.
Except for the Handsome Monkey God Sun Wu Kong who followed Xuanzang journey to the west and converted to Buddhism, all the other three have taken up the path of Demon Lords and continued to maintain their communities.
In spite of the fact that these Demon Lords have not committed any major evils since the time that all seven Great Demon Lords challenged Heavens to a battle, their names will always be remembered by those of the Little Garden that thinks of the term Demon Lords.
However, talking about Demon Lords, Shiroyasha still counts as one of the most befitting as an Elder Demon Lord.
Gazing at the flag fearlessly, she then looked around in disappointment.
“Let’s not talk about the lack of having someone to welcome us…. There’s totally not even a shadow of a living thing outside the doors. I clearly informed them before hand to prepare a banquet, but it seems that they aren’t too functional in the mind.” Shiroyasha sniffed in disgust.
KuroUsagi dropped her ears even further, as she started timidly. “Shiro, Shiroyasha sama…. This is to be expected. The fact that Bull Demon King hates the Buddhist World is common Knowledge and this is confirmed even by my ears. Even if you do not count me who works for Indra, Shiroyasha sama’s presence would also cause much irritation to them….” Nervously twitching her rabbit ears, KuroUsagi had held her heart in her mouth.
---Having his sworn sister Sun Wu Kong taken away by the Buddhist world, the emblem of the one who Unites Heaven destroyed, and his own son Spitfire (Hong HaiEr) has converted to Buddhism. It caused much talk on the street that the rest of the Yōkai Lords under his flag would have and an impassable gulf separating them from the Buddhist world.
Though Shiroyasha knows the existence of the gulf, she just shook her head. “No, KuroUsagi. It’s precisely the reason why I chose this time to visit. You would have heard of me returning my [Divinity] back to the Buddhist world, and that makes it the perfect time for me to be here.” Shiroyasha said while sweeping back her silver hair.
----- Originally, the [Divinity] title of “Shiroyasha” is obtained after her entry to the Buddhist World.
Being a “ShiroYoru” elf, she’s one of the Astral beings in Charge of the Sun’s orbit, and one who is able to sit on par with the Sun god. Even though she needn’t belong to a religion with her immense Spirit Power, she decided to take on the job of a Floor Master and use her position to help the lower levels. The only condition to do so would be the conversion to Buddhism as a means to restrain her powers.
In the previous Demon Lord attack, where she went on the defensive, Shiroyasha had returned her [Divinity] and hence appear to be a grown woman having lost the power to maintain her childlike form.
Silver hair that seemed to reflect light in a way that reminds one of the sunrays during sunrise. A heroic spirit that seems to surround her seemed to befit one with envious amount of Spiritual energy such as her.
Shiroyasha took in the sight of the headquarters silently. Her bells continued to jingle as a gust of wind blew from behind .
“There’s an unknown threat pressuring the lower levels. So as to maintain the peace of the lower levels, we would need the help of the strongest of the higher levels…. Bull Demon King’s strength. ‘The Sage who Flattens Heaven’ gathered six Demon Lords under his wing by his own strength. This is evidently no simple feat----I hope you will bravely present yourself, KuroUsagi.” Shiroyasha used a rarely seen powerful glare on KuroUsagi.
Facing such a different atmosphere, KuroUsagi straightened up and perked up her ears as she nodded in agreement. “Yes, understood. Since this concerns the safety of Little Garden, I swear that I will not back down on the pride of a ‘Moon Rabbit’. Even if I’m stabbed by knives in my sides, I will not retreat.”
“Keke, with that resolve, I’m relieved.”
“Yes! ♪ But what should KuroUsagi do then?”
“Oh, right. I have not explained to you right? So---- change into this costume!”
*Pak,pak!* Shiroyasha clapped her hands twice. Immediately, a costume that used little material in its makings appeared before KuroUsagi’s eyes. It was much more miniscule in size compared to the clothes she now wore.
KuroUsagi’s train of thoughts seemed to have pulled the emergency brakes and her rabbit ears were turning pale as blood seemed to drain out of them.
“Shiro...Shiroyasha sama? This, these clothes are?”
“Mhm! The date of recontract for the rights to being a judge is coming around soon! These are the clothes that I have prepared for you beforehand! So, pick one of these and use your cute seductiveness to entrance the Bull Demon Lord! Let’s start from the transparent tight one piece dress that comes with accessories such as a tie and netted stockings….”
“I’ve already refused those didn’t I, you horrible god!”
------*Xiu Pak!* KuroUsagi swung down her favourite paper fan with much vigour.
“Rea, Really! How can you talk nonsense after coming to this kind of place! Please state your real intentions for dragging me out to this place!”
“Hnh, you are the one who really can’t differentiate the place and time for stuff! I’m the strongest Floor Master Shiroyasha! I swear upon the Gods of Heaven and Earth that I’ve never taken my work lightly! With all my utmost! Even if it is a prank, I will also give it my all!”
“Are you an idiot? Arrrrrrgh---!”
*XiuPak-----!* KuroUsagi used strength that surpassed that of what she has used before to swing her paper fan downwards. Shiroyasha who wasn’t quick enough to dodge the attack was sent flying into the mansion’s outer wall ,following with the sound of an explosion, with her head embedded in the wall.
*
“ WuWu….. How can it be that you dislike the most sexy and cute outfit that I have chosen for you from my precious collection after much deliberation?”
“ …. I don’t care!”
KuroUsagi’s cheeks and ears were red and turned her face as she threw a small tantrum. The female shop assistant looked upon the two squabbling people with disdain. However, her facial expression changed to one that was tensed once they have entered the mansion.
[In spite of the [Divinity]’s return, word was that Bull Demon Lord harboured a hatred against the Buddhist World that could not be written off easily. Even though the possibility is small, I must be alert and ready at all times to prevent them from making any moves on Shiroyasha sama….]
Walking within the mansion, the female shop assistant had her anxiety plastered across her face while shifting her Gift card to be hidden within the sleeve of her wafuku.
Shiroyasha on the other hand, walks boldly into the mansion that was devoid of presences. Cold sweat had already started to soak the backs of the shop assistant and KuroUsagi who were still following her while taking much care about their steps.
“How is it that there isn’t anyone here, do they really have to be so unwelcoming towards us to this extent?”
At the corner of Shiroyasha’s mouth, her lips twitched slightly.
The mansion which would normally be bustling with life with the underlings of Bull Demon King rushing to and fro with their tasks would already seem spacious. Without their presence, it seemed much bigger and a little empty.
Though it felt quiet and empty, it was evident from signs of daily life still left behind from the surroundings that there was a recent evacuation. From the silence that cause one to feel at ill at ease, one can already deduce how guarded the other party is at the visit of Shiroyasha.
Passing the outer wall corridor, a sudden breeze carrying a light pleasant scent flowed pass them. The sight before them also gradually widen and brighten with light that streamed down from above.
The trio have arrived at the centre of the mansion. The Bull Demon King’s throne was just at the end of this walkway.
The imminent audience with the Bull Demon King caused KuroUsagi to feel more anxious, and she couldn’t help but look up at the sky to calm her nerves------
---- At this moment, a curious phenomenon descended from the sky.
“…. Sunlight?”
The ray of light in the air rapidly grew in intensity as it descended before them, from the original warmth of sunrays to a light of the furthest end on the infrared spectrum that could literally burn the skin with its intensity
A shadow of what may be the source of the heat shimmered in the glaring midst of the space it landed. However, the angle of refraction that they were at forbid them from having a clearer image.
Though the identity of the enemy was still unknown as with their powers, it was clearly an instigative attack on them.
“An ambush like we expected!”
“Shiroyasha sama, please stand back!”
KuroUsagi and the shop assistant quickly stood in front of Shiroyasha to shield her, only for Shiroyasha herself to stand with her both arms akimbo, authoritatively and challengingly looking at the attacker. From the body that continued to emit heat waves, one piece fell away, two, three pieces of gold glittery feathers that lightly spun as they fell to the ground.
Looking at the feathers, Shiroyasha immediately guessed the identity of the person and her expression changed to that of surprise.
“…… That’s surprising. Have you forgotten the letter of greeting, or were you unable to bear to let your sworn brother meet up with people who have close relations with the Buddhist world, Roc Demon King?”
“Eh?”
The sound escaped from KuroUsagi and the shop assistant at the same time.
In a flash, sunlight was converted to a stifling heat wave that covered the skies and illuminated the area.
“---- ShiroYouruOu, if only the guest didn’t include any others, I would not be this preposterous.”
The voice of a woman seemed to resound from the air above them.
Heat and light surrounded the inner court, gradually becoming golden flames that surrounded Shiroyasha and her entourage. The feathers that floated around lightly---- no, it was a whirlwind created from the movements of the blazing golden wings that hailed the entrance of the attacker.
The attacker had tied back her black hair, wearing an outfit embroidered with elegant designs that boldly exposed her back and arms. A pair of blazing golden wings could be seen on her back.
Having seen their attacker’s appearance, KuroUsagi and the shop assistant turned pale.
“A human appearance and those blazing golden wings….. could it be------ Great Garuda!”
“How can it be! The highest divine bird that is on par with the Juniten(12) Deva Guardians has fallen to become a Demon Lord…….”
Flames continued to surround the two who kept staring at the aggressor---- Roc Demon King with eyes that seemed to voice their surprise.
Still having cold sweat, the two hurriedly tried to ready their stance for an upcoming battle. However, Shiroyasha patted their shoulders, seemingly to signal them to calm down their hyped up tension.
“Well now, you two should just cool it. This person is undoubtedly a phoenix, but not of the purest lineage. She’s just a runaway royal princess.”
“….what?”
“Run, Runaway… Princess?”
“Roc Demon Lord?” Both of them asked at once, while looking her over calculatingly.
Much as her clothing and accessories look resplendent with their elegant designs, the bare back that exposed much of her skin, Roc Demon Lord’s appearance seemed youthful. Despite of the addition of makeup, the baby face under the cosmetics was still visible.
The glittery accessories that act as decorum for her soft and tender complexion.
In addition to the aura that she excludes from her dainty movement that shows her noble backgrounds.
[Picture] [2 goes here]
The cross between the two makes a powerful charm that could release worldly desires to commit sins.
Roc Demon King’s body excluded an aura that was different from the other Demon Lords and she seemed to detest being called “hime”. Walking over in a huff, she stared angrily at Shiroyasha.
“ShiroYouruOu, please know the limits and not use that kind of nickname. A thousand years have passed and the girl has since grown up. A princess would now be a queen by now.”
“Then you should also change the way you call me. I’m not a Demon Lord anymore. If you do not agree…Hmph, I will just follow your lead and call you like how I used to a thousand years ago. Calling you in front of others in a loving voice ‘Jia Ling chan ♪’------”
In a flash, the flames of the surroundings rushed towards Shiroyasha and the others.
Flames of the Golden Wing is a Gift of the highest order that is often used against Gods and Dragons for it can disintegrate anything that it touches.
Even then, those flames that should reduce people to nothingness---- were collected within the palm of Shiroyasha, without letting the heat escape from her grasp.
[Flame…Flame of the Golden Wing was so easily….]
The legendary Flame of the Golden Wing that was rumoured to be stronger than that of the flames of Hell has coagulated in a clump within Shiroyasha’s palm before it was pinched into powder. Shiroyasha who had returned her [Divinity] could now utilise her original Astral Spiritual powers and would be more than a match for Roc Demon King.
KuroUsagi who had collapsed on the floor just from the heat waves, held her breath as she watched the confrontation.
The kind of heat that she wouldn’t dream to try touching with her own power was that easily crushed by Shiroyasha to nonexistence. It is evident from this that those who live a Demon Lord’s existence can crush others while having an enjoyable conversation within a flash.
It is only now that KuroUsagi realised how terrible a place she has been brought to and her ears immediately pressed against the side of her head.
Roc Demon Lord’s brows rose slightly for a while after attacking Shiroyasha. Though her veins started to become more prominent due to her anger, she still kept her attitude of being authoritative as she continued the tongue fight.
“…..Heh. Seems like you are just as monstrous as ever, ShiroYouruOu.”
“Then that means you are just a little runt too, Jia Ling chan?”
Shiroyasha replied while laughing, clearly not caring about her choice of words.
A few more veins became more evident on the face of Roc Demon King, but she realised that a battle of tongues would not lead her anywhere and decided to leave it as that. She then dismissed the heat wave that seemed to feel like the burning of phosphorus with her flaming golden wings.
The two followers scrambled to their feet in embarrassment having collapsed on the ground from the series of events, and only just returning to their senses.
[Little did I expect her to be a princess of the Garuda lineage. It is said that Roc Demon King’s rank is only around the middle of the Seven Great Demon Kings……]
One can already deduce how monstrous the other six Demon Kings are.
What would the power of “The Sage that Flattens Heaven” ----the oldest of the Seven Great Demon Kings, whom they are going to meet, be like? Just imagining was able to cause one to feel chilly down their spines and shiver involuntarily.
Roc Demon King gave a sidelong glance at KuroUsagi before turning her gaze back to Shiroyasha.
“What is your business with my Big Brother? If it were only you who have returned your [Divinity], it would have been more forgivable. You just had to bring Indra’s toy into the headquarters of “The One that Flattens Heaven”…. This is a preposterous action enough for us to assume your declaration of war.”
“Oh, GomeGome(very sorry). I also have my difficult circumstances. I will explain after we go in, so would you please help to lead the way to the throne room?”
Shiroyasha stepped forward a little as she smiled warmly, seeming to try shield KuroUsagi with herself. They expected Roc Demon King to use violence again but she only gave a sheepish expression as she replied.
“….Sorry to say, my Big Brother isn’t in.”
“What did you say?”
This answer was definitely beyond Shiroyasha’s expectations.
Roc Demon King folded her arms after arranging her sleeves while she narrated the reason for his absence.
“Ever since Big Brother left to help out the ‘Onihime’ Alliance about half a month ago, he hasn’t been back. However, Brother has always been like this, and most likely to be enjoying himself somewhere now.”
“Ho, How can this be…..”
Shiroyasha stuttered in shock.
This was an answer that even Shiroyasha had not expected.
------ She had heard of the Bull Demon King’s departure to help the ‘Onihime’ Alliance and the North floor Master in the simultaneous attack of the Demon Lords half a month ago, but she had also received the reports that he had left quickly after defeating the demon lords. And so she had thought that Bull Demon King would have returned to his Community.
“Then your presence in this place is for?”
“Well, his advisors begged me to help my Big Brother welcome you. And we had actually readied a banquet…. Since you had to bring the livestock of the Buddhist World to this abode, I have no choice but to let it go to waste.”
“……Wu!”
Roc Demon King used her sleeve to cover her mouth as she shot an insulted look towards KuroUsagi.
Even though KuroUsagi has an amicable character, but being the target of insults one after another, her brows had furrowed in anger. After all, she was still one of the “Little Garden nobles” that had a long history in Little Garden. Not using her powers did not mean that she lacked pride or self-appreciation.
KuroUsagi stepped forward a step, planning to give a piece of her mind back at the other party-----
“Why? DO YOU INTEND TO CHALLENGE ME, ‘Moon Rabbit’?”
------ KuroUsagi rapidly retreated 3 steps back, with her rabbit ears flopping down.
The scene was like that of a snake staring till the frog retreated------No, it was a rabbit being stared into retreating by an eagle.
Let’s not mention about Shiroyasha. Even the shop assistant gave an icy glare at KuroUsagi who backed away so quickly from the challenge.
“KuroUsagi that was seriously an embarrassment.”
“That’s right. That’s why you are called by your companions as ‘Little Garden Noble (lol)’.” [magref notes5]
“No, it’s not like that! It’s just a tactical retreat since I remembered that Indra and Garuda’s attributes are not able to have a good compatibility in a fight.---- Wait, how did you know of that nickname Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!”
KuroUsagi gave a moan from her soul. The shop assistant on the other hand froze for a moment before continuing:
“…. Huh? You mean that it is really the case that you are called ‘Little Garden Noble (lol)’?”
“-----Huh?” This time it was KuroUsagi’s turn to freeze on the spot.
It would seem that the shop assistant’s surprise wasn’t feigned.
In other words, the words she used “just happen to be similar by coincidence”.
The lineage of “Moon Rabbits” with long history in Little Garden is now getting called that with the addition of ‘lol’……Though the shop assistant didn’t ask further, her expressions betrayed her thoughts.
And it was that pure gaze of puzzlement that cut deeper into KuroUsagi’s pride.
“….Gu, GuWu…. Wa, Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa----------!”
With such a serious blow to her pride that she had never experienced before, KuroUsagi broke down into tears while running back the way they came, continuing her weird wail as she ran.
Not expecting this turn of events, the shop assistant had a panicky expression as she watched the fleeing back of KuroUsagi. Shiroyasha’s response was also out of the norm as she waved her right hand while feeling a headache from this trouble.
“Haiz, I’m going to be fine here. You better go catch and coax KuroUsagi to come back. She must have worked too hard in the past few days and accumulated too much stress that exploded today.”
“G… Got it.”
Giving a respectful glace at Roc Demon King as she took her leave, she broke into a small jog in the same direction where KuroUsagi had fled to.
Roc Demon King who had been out of the picture for a moment continued to be in a daze for a while longer before regaining her bearings after seeing the backs of those two disappear from her sight.
“…… It would seem that the one that you have brought is a very strange mutation.”
“Really? The rabbits that I know of are mostly like this.”
“Is it?” Roc Demon King doubtfully cocked her head to one side.
Shiroyasha sighed in asperation as she gazed up at the banner of “The One that Flattens Heaven”.
“But, this is a real headache. To be unable to meet with the first candidate I have in mind: Bull Demon King… might as well pass it to those little rascals and be done with it…… No, not good. It is still too early for them……” Shiroyasha muttered for a while.
Perhaps the departure of KuroUsagi made Roc Demon King feel more comfortable, her tone had warmed and softened a little. “Regardless, I have to apologize for the fact that my brother is unable to welcome you personally. I will help you take the message for him till he returns.”
“No, This matter will have no meaning if I do not do it personally. Moreover, I do not have the time. Since I do not know when he will be back, I will just have to find another candidate……”
“Candidate?”
“Yea.” Shiroyasha nodded her head vigorously.
Pausing for a moment to consider if her words would be appropriate to be told to others, she continued after concluding that it did not matter if it was made known----
“I ….. decided to temporarily resign from the position of Floor Master of the East sector.”
“……What?” Roc Demon King showed an unsurpassed amount of shock on her face upon hearing those words.
But in afterthought, this decision was only plausible. Shiroyasha had once been branded with the deeds of a Demon Lord. It was only due to having converted to the Buddhist World on the promise of becoming a kind deity that she obtained the rights to govern the lower levels.
Currently, Shiroyasha has lost her backing.
It is only expected for her movements to be restricted after returning her [Divinity].
“That’s why I needed someone to help me take on the job with sufficient power to be a “Floor Master”.”
Shiroyasha’s words held a sense of unshakeable determination and decisiveness that included the weight of the responsibilities that was comparable to Mount Tai in stress and load. The severity of the atmosphere caused Roc Demon King to intake a breath as she guessed the meaning of Shiroyasha’s words.
“But after resigning from being the Floor Master….. shouldn’t you be going back to your former level in Little Garden and not here in the level 4 area?”
“Sorry, I still have another reason that I cannot tell you about…… Wherever I go to is not the problem but the need for a distinguished Floor master is indispensable.”
“And your point?”
“Hmh…. Currently the ‘Floor Master’ s other than me would be ‘Salamandra’, ‘OniHime’ Alliance and ‘Draco Greif’ Alliance that are still active. And their leaders are lacking a Demon Lord with much battle experience. So long as a situation of a huge scale occurs, I won’t be able to deal with it by myself.”
They were all from level five Communities and Alliances that boasted of their numbers. Within the middle levels, they were definitely a power to be reckon with, even countable within the Highest of the middle levels, with cohesiveness capable of dealing with Demon Lords. However when pitted with a Demon Lord, the number of casualties would always exceed imagination.
Just like the previous encounter where there was a simultaneous attack by Demon Lords, they were ill prepared to deal with the situation with their capabilities.
And to lose the strongest “Floor Master”, Shiroyasha, at this critical time would be very dangerous.
“Hence, I chose an experienced, knowledgeable and professional at Demon Lord games---- your sworn brother: Bull Demon King.”
Unfortunately, the most suitable candidate wasn’t at home.
If it were him who had rushed to the aid of ‘Onihime’ Alliance when they were in need--------- it was the hope that she had, but the result was like using a wicker basket to fetch water----a futile effort.
The irritated and troubled Shiroyasha sank into deep thought as she tried to think up of another candidate.
But her thoughts was interrupted by the following words.
“…. Really? Since it seems like a hot matter, I will not withhold from you any longer.”
“What are you talking about?”
Shiroyasha asked in reflex. Roc Demon King remained silent but seemed to have given in as she took out a letter that she threw to Shiroyasha.
“This is something that the counsellor wanted me to pass to you-----“THIS IS THE LETTER THAT WAS WRITTEN TO SHIROYASHA BEFORE BULL EMPEROR LEFT TO PROVIDE AID’.”
“Wha…”
Shiroyasha was stumped for words this time.
If she told the truth, it would mean that Bull Demon King had predicted her visit. Moreover that letter had the wax seal emblem of ‘The One who Flatten Heavens’.
It would seem that there wasn’t a need to doubt any further. It was a letter written personally by Bull Demon King for Shiroyasha.
[ He was able to guess my visit?]
Knitting her brows together, she opened the letter in surprise.
Written in a line of untidy words----
“A Budding successor lies within the Southern Great Tree. May the lord make a trip yonder.”
The words were succinct without any extra details.
Shiroyasha read the line for two or three times, before feeling enlightened----- With that, she gave off a laugh that sounded like a cheer.
“Hahahah…… ‘The Sage that Flatten Heavens’ predicted the future even from a distance of a thousand miles! Looks like that old youth still has much tactics up his sleeve and still remains as sharp as ever!”
Shiroyasha clutched her sides as she burst into laughter.
…… Her judgement hadn’t been wrong. This piece of credibility has just strengthen it.
Happily turning back the way she came, her long silver hair spread outwards like an opened harisen.
“You have helped out lots, Jia Ling chan! Thanks to you, I have found a sliver of light! I will prepare a present for you in the meantime!”
“……Since you want to express your gratitude, then stop calling me “Jia Ling chan” already.”
Roc Demon King retorted in exasperation as her shoulders drooped slightly. But Shiroyasha continued to laugh as she walked the way back.
*Ding Ling* ---- Leaving a clear and crisp jingle of the bell that hung in the air, Shiroyasha walked briskly out of the headquarters of ‘The One that Flatten Heavens’.
END OF PROLOGUE
[magref notes2]The use of the group term ‘Izayoi and the others’……….*Don’t blame me for this… it is clearly the fault of the author for wanting Izayoi to be the main character and Asuka, You to be sidelined as ‘the others’. Not that I do not agree with it…. I actually like it this way too! Especially the part where Leticia specially named Izayoi and the other masters.
[magref notes3]Aži Dahāka is some demonic ancient dragon of Avesta. An ancient Iranian folklore. Azi is the Avestan word for serpent/dragon. Dahaka is more ambiguous: stinging/burning/manlike/huge/foreign in many other languages
[magref notes4] Kanzashi is a term for hair ornaments
[magref notes5] Little Garden Noble[lol] --- lol stands for Laugh Out Loud. Lol has a more teasing connotation than laugh/shame. And the word had more teasing than about shame.
thanks so much for your work and the work to come 