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Mondaiji-tachi ga isekai kara kuru soudesu yo:Volume 6 Chapter 3

2014-06-03T10:39:47Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, grammar, ichi, contractions.

==Chapter 3==

===Part 1===

ー[Kouen, City of Brilliant Flames], North Side’s Workroom District.

The scene where the “Kamikakushi” occurred was swarming with people.

Located at a certain guest room of a certain Inn along the Workroom District it was in a building that loaned workrooms to outsiders<ref>[magref notes: outsiders as in those who are not a resident in the North Side Territory]</ref>.

The military police squads have locked down the brick-paved streets while Mandra, advisor of [Salamandra], stood at the front shouting commands.

And he gave both a frown and a sigh, upon catching sight of Izayoi’s figure making his way through the crowd.

“……What are you here for? There’s nothing here to give you the entertainment you seek.”

“That’s not true. I definitely see entertainment here. Didn’t a “Kamikakushi” just occur?”

Izayoi laughed heartily while crossing over the railing that was used to block off the area.

The expressions of the military police squad had already been set in a grimace in annoyance but none of them went to stop him.

They had already had a taste of Izayoi’s strength for the past few days and it had long past the point of annoyance and a sickening repetition to them. Even if they seized him now, the retaliation would be far worse.

“Well then, have you guys found clues on the criminal?”

“No. It has been carried out in the same method but there is still no headway on the criminal’s identity.”

“……same method? You mean to say that this “Kamikakushi” has been a serial crime?”

“Oh right. I can bring you along if you want to see the scene of the crime, but just make sure not to mess up anything.”

Mandra, who had slowly learnt the approach to deal with Izayoi, opened the door to the Inn for the both of them.

Although it was the scene of the crime, the interior of the Inn looked perfectly fine and not a trace of struggle could be seen, retaining the look of a normal Inn<ref>[magref notes: It’s both an Inn and a rented warehouse/studio]</ref> on a normal day.

Upon reaching the third story of the Inn, Mandra stopped in his tracks before a room,

“And this room is the scene of the ‘Kamikakushi’”, opening the door to enter with Izayoi trailing after him.

Sure enough, the interior of the room was just as orderly as the rest of the items in the building, having left no traces of struggle, but a trace of life could still be felt lingering in the room marking the recent presence of its original owner.

The overly calm atmosphere of the place made it difficult to believe that this was the scene of a kidnap.

“……”

With exception for the characters of “混”<ref>[magref notes: this character has meanings of mix/confusion]</ref> and a message on an arrow.

“ ‘游手好闲’<ref>[magref notes: this one means to be idle but it is a Chinese idiom]</ref>…… and the character of “混”. Those are Chinese characters right?”

“Ah yes, or it might also be the name of the technique or some sort of message. But whatever it might be for, similar characters had also been found at the scenes of the other two previous cases. Hence we think that it might be the doings of the same spell master.”

“Oh? And what were the others?”

Izayoi’s eyes started to light up with curiosity.

According to Mandra, the series of ‘Kamikakushi’ had three lines of written characters that looked like Chinese characters.

:*游手好闲

:*虚度光阴

:*一事无成 <ref>[magref notes: later there will be explanations… and I’m just gonna leave these as it is lols. They are idioms that will never make sense if you want me to direct translate…Imagine me writing IDLE x3 for 3 of them…]</ref>

And those were the three lines left at the scenes.

Izayoi slowly chewed on those lines in his mind while frowning.

“……are those the only clues?”

“This is the third person to be kidnapped."

“Oh…… Then is there a similarity in the victims?”

“Well, nothing much is special about them……No, wait, there’s one. The victims to disappear are all young children.”

Hearing Mandra’s casual way of saying it, Izayoi clicked his tongue in irritation.

“……that really is an annoying criminal.”

“Oh? That touched your heartstrings?”

“Yes, it did. Actually, it’s not just a touch but the feeling is more of bringing a saw to the strings itself.”

Though it was said in a joking manner, but the tone of his words had carried an obvious pulse of anger.

Initially just taking interest in the business of ‘Kamikakushi’, Izayoi was now filled with hostility towards the criminal.

Taken aback by the sudden change in demeanor, Mandra asked casually:

“Though it might be a little presumptuous of me, but I never expected you to be the kind to be interested with this sort of things.”

“You are right about that. It’s not my style to impose my feelings of sympathy or judge them to be good or badーBut, even if it’s me, I also have a line that cannot be crossed as well. And this fellow has just broken my first rule. Do you expect me to just stand-by and watch now?”

Izayoi’s words had made clear his stand on the matterーno matter what price it took, Izayoi would want to use his own two hands to bring judgment upon the criminal.

And that made Mandra’s surprise grow even more.

“……the rule that you talk about… Does it refer to the targeting of children?”

“Nope. I’ve always lived with this one rule; A strong power should only be used against a strong opponent.”

A sharp gaze made his eyes glint dangerously as he said his own unwritten rule that was strongly rooted in his heart.

Be it their physical bodies or their mentality, children were unquestionably the weaker group in society.

And it was precisely so that Izayoi could not forgive those people who are stronger for lifting a hand against children.

For Izayoi who was born with an absolute power from the very first day, this was one iron-clad rule to him. And his gaze was one that dared anyone around him to oppose.

“About the case of the ‘Kamikakushi’, I’ve more or less gotten a grasp on the situation. If I meet someone that looks like a suspect, I will use appropriate measures to catch the person. So you guys can continue with the securing of the region for the Convention preparation phrase for now.”

“……Hmph. Then, remember to use my name when you do the reporting and handing over of the suspect. The military police squads should understand then.”

Izayoi raised a hand as he left to signal his understanding. Somehow feeling that taking the stairs would be too troublesome, Izayoi stretched his leg to step on the window frame.

Just then, something on the roof of the next workroom building caught his attention.

No matter how you look at it, the colorful fumes that were puffing out of that workroom’s chimney seemed to be a suspicious ritual being held. The yellowish green fumes were spreading across the clear skies that had nary a cloud for miles around.

But that wasn’t the point.

The one that Izayoi stared at intently wasーa stranger dressed up in a hooded robe that had the character of “混”sewn on it,

“……Oi, Mandra."

“Why? Could it be that now you want our help after saying all that?”

“Well, yeah, sorry about earlier but that seems to be the caseーPlease surround the area below. The ‘Kamikakushi’ has appeared.”

Saying that, Izayoi leapt out of the window like a bullet shot from its barrel.

Traveling at a speed that left his afterimages behind, Izayoi instantaneously closed the distance between himself and that robed guy with the “混”character. However, just like he were waiting for Izayoi to come close, the “混” character flew into the air at the last moment.

The mysterious figure twisted its body and dodged the sudden attack from Izayoi.

Seeing how his opponent had executed such a fine dodge that seemed like a swallow’s flight in the skies<ref>[magref notes: ok this is a Chinese idiom, direct translated, it’s to mean that the person is as free and light like a swallow, being able to jump like the use of zzz dunno how to say it in English so I use a Bleach reference? Like shunpo ;P]</ref>, it caused Izayoi to immediately heighten his awareness.

(''This guy…… he’s not an ordinary ‘Kamikakushi’?'')

Izayoi took on a battle stance on the brick roof.

At the same time, Mandra leaned out from the window frame to shout at him: “Oi, where’s he? Where’s the main suspect for the ‘Kamikakushi’?”

“Hah? What are you saying? The fellow with that“混”character on his robes is standing right in front of meー“

Saying up till that point, he closed his mouth. For he must have noticed the weird look on Mandra’s face as Mandra kept scanning the grounds in search for the person and had not noticed the guy with the “混”character standing before Izayoi.

Seeing that sort of unnatural behavior, Izayoi clicked in tongue in annoyance.

“Could it be that ……he can’t see this guy?”

“Oh, you have quite a good intuition huh? You must be the new guy that everyone’s talking about on the streets?”

The figure of the ‘Kamikakushi’ suddenly spoke up and gave a laugh from under that burlap hood. It would seem that this fellow was a type of Obake(化生)<ref>[magref notes: Obake are monster-like existences such as kappas, vampires, zombies,etc that possess magical capabilities. 化生 is a type of Buddhist term, the four types of reincarnations. Wiki defines it as human, animal(oops typed anime at first), ghost and other being… Thanks jorgelotr for the comment that made me check back to try reverse translation to get that term pinned down. ]</ref> that possessed intellect.

Izayoi was a little anxious as he turned back to look at his opponent and he caught on soon enough.

Although he did not know what kind of Gift it was, but this criminal with the “混”character seemed to be capable of hiding his presence from others. And if there wasn’t a way to counter that, it would be very difficult for others to find the criminal.

Izayoi gave a fearless laugh as he used his forefinger to provoke his opponent with a taunt.

“Well, I know not of what street or alley you are talking about, but if you really care about those kind of rumors, you are more than welcomed to test it for yourself.ー Bring it on, you ‘Kamikakushi’. And watch how I tear apart your lousy and despicable tricks.”

“Heheh, your words are quite big! I must say that I do admire that cockiness, but newbie, I'd be taking you up on the offer then!”

Retrieving a type of scroll from the burlap robe with the“混”character, the person released its string seal to display the characters of “虚度光阴”.

[[Image:Mondaiji-tachi_ga_isekai_kara_kuru_soudesu_yo_v06_085.jpg|thumb]]

Is that the truth behind the ‘Kamikakushi’? With just the unrolling of the scroll, the colorful [Kouen City] was gradually turned into a shade of black, white and grey and the colors of the surroundings were just stolen with that move.

The sudden change caused Izayoi to be placed in his highest alert.

(''This is……Wiping out the colors from the City?!'')

If one were to forcefully give a description of that scene, it would be similar to the spray of ink into the air.

However, the strange sight did not seem to end there. What was taken away from [Kouen City] was more than the loss of the brilliance and colors for even the movements of the residents had also been frozen.

“Heaheheheh! What’s the matter now, newbie?! Don’t just stand there in a daze! I had been a little cautious about you after hearing that you managed to impress that Saurian Demon King but it seems like you are just another small fry! No, actually it’s really lucky for me to find such a nice duck!!”<ref>[magref notes: translating Chinese notes : Japanese カモ has the meaning of duck, and also the meaning of having found an easily defeated opponent.]</ref>

The “混”character guy held his sides as he laughed loudly. Judging from his words and actions, it would seem that his technique was supposed to freeze Izayoi’s movements. And Izayoi had only played along by holding still to try figure out the technique activation.

(''I see. This black and white world is the result of “虚度光阴”……?'')

“虚度光阴”is a Chinese idiom that has the meaning of ‘spending time by idling and achieving nothing in the end’. In terms of the meaning, it was much lazier than the Japanese proverb of ‘Time flies like an arrow’.<ref>[magref notes: can’t see the jap one… so I direct translated this proverb.]</ref> And in Chinese, the “混”character also has a similar meaning.

The “混”character in Japanese is usually used to in conjunction with another character 混合 and it means to mix and combine. But in Chinese, such a phrase can also be used to mean ‘not doing anything and passing days just as it is’.”

Collating all these information, Izayoi deciphered the phenomenon of the black and white landscape before him.

(''Considering that he stripped away the colorsーthe phenomenon of taking away part of the light spectrum, we can safely assume that he used some sort of technique to cause time to stop. But from how this scene is playing out, the metaphorical appearance should also be taken into consideration as well.'')

Standing quietly while using the time to consider the situation from all perspectives. What’s fortunate was that the enemy was still laughing heartily.

(''The proverb of ‘Time flies like an arrow’ is used to express the feeling of time flowing pass them. If ‘stripping away the colors’ were to be the appearance of ‘passing days without doing anything’ー then “虚度光阴” will be the Gift that stops the feeling of time in his enemies? Ha, sounds like a suitable Gift for a ‘Kamikakushi’.'')

And since this Gift was that strong, it should come with some additional conditions for it to be usable. If only the condition were to be fulfilled by the kidnapping of children, it would explain the serial ‘Kamikakushi’ incidents.

But, such a strong Gift being used only on small children? That was a conclusion that made Izayoi seethed in anger.

He coldly swept back his hair.

“ーHa. As a ‘Kamikakushi’, I guess you can be said to have quite a good technique……But if I were to describe it, it would surely be the worst type of skill.”

“……Heah….Hah?”

The despicable laugh suddenly stopped in mid-laugh.

The fellow with the “混”character had finally realized that his technique had not worked on Izayoi and his laughter immediately became an exclamation in surprise as he backed away three steps while roaring:

“Wait, give me a moment! Why are you still able to move?! You are able to see me right?! If that’s the case, why didn’t my technique work?!”

“Oh?” Izayoi responded to that unexpected revelation.

Following that, a ferocious smile floated to Izayoi’s face as his eyes started to glint dangerously.

“You have just said some interesting words too.”

“……Uu……!!!”

“Seems to me that the Gift is related to ‘seeing you’ and it then leads to ‘whether your technique becomes effective’…… Hmph. I’ve already guessed your real identity, you third rate Demon Lord!”

“What…… You, you?!”

“Well then, what’s left would be to assess your spiritual power. From the powers of a ‘Kamikakushi’, to be an ape god would be quite good. But oh well, what a waste, calling you that would really be rude to the Gods for no matter how you look at it, you are at most an ape spirit only. If there’s something wrong with my conjectures, I’m all ears, you know? [Demon King of Confusion]-sama.”

In contrast with his arrogant words, Izayoi’s tone had been one filled with his sense of boredom. However, for the figure in long robesーthe one who was called [Demon King of Confusion], that sort of information was equivalent to a fatal blow to him.

“You… You smelly brat……!! Your brains sure work very fast eh?!”

Demon King of Confusion started to retreat stealthily as he was starting to get spooked.

He mustn’t have expected anyone to be able to guess his identity with just those words that he had uttered.

(''Psh……seems like the rumors of him being on par with Saurian Demon King are true after all. And it’s better for me to hide now that my trump card technique has been seen through.'')

Putting his strength into his leg to step up onto the ledge of the brick room, Demon King of Confusion was prepared to leap off when Izayoi declared with a ferocious glint in his eyes:

“Prepare yourself. For I will get rid of you before the real ‘Kamikakushi’ startsー!!”

The starting sprint that seemed like an explosion caused the footing below his feet to crack with the force as Izayoi charged forth.

Faced with such an overwhelming chase from behind that shortened the distance between them rapidly, Demon King of Confusion could only dodge in desperation. Although he was one of the fallen, but he was still a Demon Lord and his movements were quite skillful and dexterous.

It was not known whether it was Izayoi’s continuous pressing of the attacks that caused the technique of “虚度光阴”to be released, for the colors had suddenly been restored to [Kouen City].

“You….You must be joking! What are you?! Aren’t you just a human little brat?!”

“That’s rude! I’m a pure bred, 100% original human you know?!”

“Don’t take me as a fool! How can there be such a human like you?!”

<nowiki>*Yeah. That’s true.*</nowiki> Somehow, Izayoi felt that many people were agreeing with that question and their agreements were making their way into his ears.

Demon King of Confusion who was now solely concentrating on escaping his pursuer was swiftly bounding along the rooftops while making his way towards the city centre.

Deliberately fleeing to a place with lots of people, he might be searching for the next prey. If that were to be so, he would have to be caught as soon as possible.

A slight smile lifted the sides of Izayoi’s lips.

(''This is interesting. A game of tag with the ‘Kamikakushi’? Looks like I have to stay sharp…!'')

Izayoi continued to chase after Demon King of Confusion with amusement.

And upon the release of the “虚度光阴”technique, Mandra who had returned to his senses, could only see them off with a stumped look on his face.

===Part 2===

ー[Ruby Cave], Underground bathhouse

While Izayoi and the Demon King of Confusion were playing their game of tag in the accommodation sector of the cityー

The five young boys and girls in the Konyokuburo<ref>[magref notes: mixed baths]</ref> were now in the midst of soaking in the sentō<ref>[magref notes: this is indoor bath that uses heated water instead of natural spring waters(onsen)…]</ref> with their bodies covered, after accepting the strong request from Jin and Percher to ‘cover all the portions that should be covered’.

Perhaps it was something along their younger days or maybe it was due to the environment that they grew up in, Jin whose sense of shame had grown with the years and Percher who wasn’t that loose with her rules to allow her naked skin to be shown, they had both reached a consensus for once on this matter.

“……It might sound strange coming from me, but that sure is a complicated relation between master and servant.”

“Stop making a fuzz. If you have an opinion about it, then get out.”

Percher sat at the ledge of the sentō’s pool while crossing her legs. Although this angle seemed a little dangerous, but the parts to be covered were properly covered. The snowy skin with those slender limbs were enough to allow others to imagine her beauty in a few years’ time. Unfortunately, this group of five weren't old enough to understand such a wondrous thought.

Deliberately clearing his throat, Jin asked Sandora:

“Right. Sandora, what was the matter that you wanted to investigate? Does it have anything to do with those two?”

“Hm. I guess we should let them introduce themselves first.”

Sandora gave them a look while giving them the cue.

Rin and His Highness nodded together.

“We are from a Trader’s Community. I’m Rin and this is His Highness.”

“Usually in such a situation, we should say the name of our Community…… But, regrettably, due to the rule of our Community, we cannot tell it to others.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Um. To be honest, we actually specialize in the trading of very dangerous goods. So we only practice the tradition of accepting customers who know of our Community’s name. If Jin wants to know more about us, we hope that you will be able to find out the name of our Community on your own.”

“Oh, I see.” Jin expressed his agreement while feeling a little impressed.

At the same time, Percher was also impressed.

(''I see. When put in that way, there wouldn’t be a pressure to say out their Community’s name. The intimate nickname of [His Highness] would also be mistaken as a cover-up for the real name.'')

What a formidable move.

Although the aim of the duo had not been figured out yet, Percher felt that this might just be part of their pretense.

“It’s been two years since we met Sandora-chan. It should be the time when there was an internal struggle in the Community to become the successor. It was also the time that [Salamandra] fell to the Five digits right?”

“Yes, you’re right on that. Due to a departure of the successor of choice, Sala, it caused quite an uproar and confusion then. Our community also provided mercenary services and the ones who were dispatched were us.”

“Eh?” Jin couldn’t help but give a small cry in surprise. But that was only to be expected.

The two before him looked only just a little into the early double digit ages, that started with ten. Assuming that they were of the same age as Jin, which is eleven years old, and that they had participated in the internal struggle two years ago, a simple calculation would have told as much that they would have been nine years old or so at that time.

“You guys had already started to participate in Gift Games then?”

“Yep…… This shouldn’t be too strange, right? In the world of Little Garden, not participating in Gift Games would be the end of our survival right?”

“Although it wasn’t pleasant, but it would have been more difficult to survive without engaging in a battle. The Gift Games hosted in the City were all filled with a thick hue of proxy wars.<ref>[magref notes: proxy war means that the smaller Communities take a side for the Larger Community and fight it out… a very nice example would be the [No Names] in volume5 helping the [One Horn] battle against the [Two Wings].]</ref> There were economical wars, war on logistics and even those based on religion. As long as one was recognized as a possessor of strength, that sufficed to make a contribution to the Community, age did not matter when it came to the choosing of combat strength for Gift Games.”

The duo had said their thoughts on the matter quite fluently and Jin nodded his head, seeming to sympathize with their situation and thoughts.

“Could it be that you two had already started to participate in Games even earlier than that?”

“Nope. Our first Game was two years ago.”

“……is that so? That’s great.”

“ “?” ”

Rin and His Highness exchanged a look while cocking their heads to one side.

But Jin ignored their small actions and returned back to the topic.

“Then for you two to be here, I take it that Sandora has hired you guys?”

“That’s right. As for the summary of the events……hearing it from Sandora-chan might be faster right?”

“Mhm.”

Seeing Rin’s look towards her direction, Sandora nodded her head in assent.

“There has been a series of child disappearance occurring in [Kouen City] recently.”

“Disappearance of children?”

Jin repeated her words in surprise. For these sort of cases did not warrant the need for the [Floor Master], Sandora herself, to make a move. Moreover, such cases of disappearance were quite common in the North Side territories.

Sandora might have picked up on Jin’s thoughts as she quickly shook her head to continue her explanation:

“Yes, I know what’s going through your mind now and what you want to say but this serial crime has a high possibility to be the doing of a Demon or Ghost type being and I would say that I’m almost 80-90% certain that……this is a type of ‘Kamikakushi’.”

“Then it should be left to the professional organizations. [Salamandra] also has those right?”

“Of course. They are truly professionals who would have resolved normal disappearances with ease……But the situation this time is different. They are unable to figure out the rules of this ‘Kamikakushi’.”

The roundabout way of explaining caused Jin to be more doubtfulーBut at the instant that he heard the word of ‘rules’, he took a sharp breath.

To have the word ‘rules’, it would mean that it was part of a ‘Game’.

When it came to a Game that required a [Floor Master] to take action, it would then leave only one possibility in mind.

“Could it be that……this is a ‘Kamikakushi’ that is related to a Demon Lord?”

“Mhm. Though it is not confirmed, but if it could be resolved earlier, we might still be able to prevent any major losses.”

Jin nodded in assent. If there’s a possibility that the series of disappearance were related to a Demon Lord, it would then be an urgent matter that should not be left alone. Especially when it comes to the ‘Kamikakushi’ of Demon Lords, for its often accompanied with a strong curse or power that is able to dominate others.

The Game that Percher had hosted previously, [The PIED PIPER OF HAMELIN] had also been a Game that imitated the legend of ‘Kamikakushi’s.

Jin looked towards Percher as he asked.

“Percher, the game of [Piper of Hamelin] had also been one that used the subject of ‘Kamikakushi’s. Do you have any clue on this one?”

Percher frowned as she started to ponder.

“……Have you found the [Geass Roll] yet?”

“Nope. But there were a few characters left at the scene.”

“Characters? What are they?”

Just as the question ended, Sandora had already written the three lines of characters in the air with her flames.

:* 游手好闲

:* 虚度光阴

:* 一事无成

Percher had read the words aloud all in a breath but she tilted her head while making an expression of being unable to grasp the meaning.

“……Jin, what does that mean?”

“That……In a nutshellーit means ‘lazing around throughout the days and not being able to accomplish anything at all’. And all the three phrases refer to the same thing. Well, are those all the clues we have?”

“No, there’s still one more. There’s also a “混”character written on the wall of the crime scenes.”

Rin scratched her head while recalling, and she added:

“This “混”character is the bottleneck to narrow our search. It’s said that there’s a similar challenge letter being sent to the Conference of [Floor Master]s.”

“A letter of Challenge?”

“Mhm. Due to the rude contents in the letter, I will just summarize it. It mainly talks about wanting to attack [Floor Master]s.”

Jin frowned.

That sort of arrogance to target a [Floor Master] is definitely the style of Demon Lords.

“I see…… that means to say, the letter might be a warning before the Demon Lord’s attack.”

“Well, only Demon Lords would specifically choose [Floor Master]s to launch their attacks.”

Jin crossed his arms and nodded his head as he digested the information given to him from the two of them.

“Hm, let’s tidy up all the information that we have at the moment:

One, The disappearance of children had been a serial incident.

Two, There has been message-like characters of ‘游手好闲’, ‘虚度光阴’ and ‘一事无成’ left behind at the scene of the crime.

Three, Similarly at the scene of the crime, there’s a mysterious message of a “混”character written on the wall.

Four, The warning letter to the imminent attack on the [Floor Master]s had also been marked with a “混”character.

Is that all?”

“Mhm.” Sandora nodded her head.

Listening up to that point, Percher who sat by the said felt a growing sense of foreboding. The reason need not be said. After all, the ones who were the masterminds behind the previous Demon Lord attacks were just sitting before her taking a leisurely soak in the pool.

The culprit of this case was highly probable to be those two as well.

(''……Seriously, what could they be up to now?'')

Percher slid her eyes over to look at Rin and His Highness from the corner of her eyes. Those two were leisurely soaking in the pool while watching the progress of the situation. That was definitely a calmness that came from the huge power gap.

The problem was that though they were calm, they had yet to reveal a gap of vulnerability to be exploited.

Be it escape or a battle, it would be a different matter altogether if one were to make the first move to decide the victory or defeat. But the fact was that these two people did not allow a chink in their armor to appear for even a moment.

(''…….Forget it, if luck’s on our side, we might be able to meet that freak rabbit or freak guy on the streets.'')

Percher sank her body into the pool as she tried the optimistic approach.

In other words, she had given up on herself.

Forming her hands into a water gun, she squirted hot water on Jin’s face while giving a sidelong glance at Sandora:

“Come to think about it, was that letter warning of an attack really sent by a demon lord? If it were like the previous attacks where they tried to attack only one [Floor Master] of each area, it would be understandable. But this is going to be the Convention where all the [Floor Master]'s are to gather, don’t you think there might be another reason for the threat?”

“Another reason?”

“Yes. For example, the person might be targeting the precious Gifts displayed in this [Kouen City] and the [Tablet of the Sea of Stars]. Perhaps it’s a feint to say that they will attack the [Floor Master] when they actually want to achieve something else?”

Realizing that Percher’s conjecture had a point as well, Sandora sank into a pensive silence.

“The warning of the attack is just a feint while it’s actually for another purpose? But we do not have such an important item……”

“Well… there’s one.”

Three pairs of eyes turned to Rin instantly.

Rin who had initially been silent smiled sweetly as she placed her hands on her chest.<ref>[magref notes: yea this sounds really really wrong… but the two copies of text I translate from agree that she did hold her chest.]</ref>

“There’s a Demon Lord that is sealed and hibernating within [Kouen City]. And it’s not just any normal Demon Lord. It’s the Demon Lord who only required just a quarter of an hour to destroy the [Highborn of Little Garden]’s City, and can even fight on par with the Juniten.”

Hearing the words that didn’t match up to her sweet smiling face, Jin and Percher couldn’t help but hold their breaths.

“Destroying the [Highborn's of Little Garden]…… Could it be referring to the hometown of Kuro Usagi?”

“And isn’t Juniten the strongest warrior Gods? It’s difficult to believe that such a large Demon lord, that can actually fight on par with them, is sleeping within this City……”

The both of them looked to Sandora as they voiced their surprise.

Sandora nodded her head slightly as she was placed in an awkward position.

“Well… Act… Actually I’ve only first heard of it after becoming the [Floor Master]. It’s just that my father told me that it’s the highest order of secrets that cannot be mentioned to anyone….. Rin, how did you know about it?”

“Of course it’s the rumors of the commercial world. It’s said that word spreads in a scary manner right? This was one of those rumors with a low level of credibility. A Demon Lord that is of the Juniten level would definitely be of the strongest species. And no one would have believed in the rumors that such a monster would be sealed within the city, am I right?”

Rin smiled as she dodged the question.

Sandora’s expression was still unconvinced and worried but it soon became pensive as she gave it some serious thought.

“……shouldn’t be a problem right? The key to the seal had disappeared since three years ago.”

“Key?”

“No, nothingーCompared to that, the words just now cannot be leaked out. Regarding those rumors, I will use my Authority as a Master to issue a gag order on it. Such information must not be leaked no matter what. I think you should know it well that leaking out such information would be punishable. Especially Jin and Your Highness, being the representatives of your Communities, you must be especially mindful.”

The two of them nodded at the same time. Percher who knew that His Highness was one of the Demon Lord Alliance members was now experiencing a turmoil in her heart, but she could not say it out. So she could only quietly continue to squirt her water gun at Jin.

Jin who had ignored her all this while finally pressed down on Percher’s hand to stop her.

“Percher, is it really fun to do that?”

“Seeing how troubled you become, it’s indeed interesting.”

“Yeah, I knew it. Haiz……” Jin gave a sigh and Percher used the opportunity to squirt another shot into his mouth.

……Seems like she’s really happy. Though the person in question might not have noticed it, but every time that she squirted a shot of water, the edges of her lips would slightly curve upwards.

Jin coughed a little before standing up to summarize the conversation earlier:

“Anyways, I’ve understood the situation. We will start by searching for the ‘Kamikakushi’ and if we find something, we will then call upon the military police of [Salamandra] for support. Is that alright with you?”

“You said search…… could it be that you’ve some idea on the culprit?”

“Mhm. Ah, but there’s a possibility that I’m wrong. Can’t say that I’m absolutely certain……”

Jin seemed to have come upon something to start on, but he shut his mouth due to his lack of confidence. Seeing his hesitation, His Highness reproached him:

“Jin, I cannot agree with that kind of attitude of yours. It will only cause more trouble for the people around you. Being the leader of the Community, you should clearly express your thoughts.”

His golden eyes shone with a light that seemed to denounce Jin’s behavior. Those were words that only His Highness had the right to say for he too was a leader of a Community.

Jin clapped his cheeks in self-reflection before urging everyone to leave the pool.

“We will first get outside and confirm the scene of the crime. Then we will arrange to make an appointment with Kouryuu-san to meet up with him tomorrow.”

“Kouryuu……Saurian Demon King?”

Percher asked in surprise.

Jin seemed to shut his mouth in his lack of confidence, but recalling the words of His Highness, he straightened his back to announce:

“I believe that the enemy’s target isn’t the [Floor Master]sーbut Kouryuu-san who has become the acting Master.”

“……What?”

“ ‘游手好闲’, ‘虚度光阴’, ‘一事无成’. These Chinese idioms mean the same thing: ‘lazing around throughout the days and not being able to accomplish anything at all’. If all those weren’t related to the techniques of the culprit but a message left behind for a [Floor Master], the only one that would fit the conditions to be insulted would be Kouryuu-san who has been termed as a ‘Floating withered log’. Wouldn’t this message then be a protest to his ascension to the acting [Floor Master]?”

“In… Indeed. It really fits in well in a logical sense……”

“Wow , that’s amazing, really amazing! Jin has the qualifications to become a Game creator!”

Sandora and Rin clapped their hands happily.

But Percher who was sitting aside was looking at Rin in surprise. If this were a trap laid down by them, Jin’s conjecture would have been an obstacle to them.

(''Could it be that this is just to mislead……'')

Rin is one of the Game creators of the Demon Lord Alliance. She would not create a Game that would run contrary to her wishes and there must be some kind of catch to this.

But Percher’s anxiety was uncalled for as Jin had already crawled out of the pool to start in the direction of his plan.

“The earliest time for Kouryuu-san to arrive at [Kouen City] would be tomorrow morning. And before that, let’s go have a look at the crime scenes and poke around. Sandora, do you know where are the crime scenes?”

“Of course”, Sandora said as she too got up from the pool to point towards the direction of the crime scene.

“The first ‘Kamikakushi’ occurred at the [Tablet of Sea of Stars]ー the place where the <Duel of Creators> is hosted.”

===Part 3===

ー[Kouen, City of Brilliant Flames], Processing Workroom District-Number 88th workroom.

The guy who entered by kicking down the door ーLaiusー stared at Asuka and Kuro Usagi threateningly,

“Damnable [No Name]'s! ……You still dare to show your face before me…”

“Who gave you the permission to smash that back door HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH?!”

Before being sent flying by a punch from an irate Jack. Receiving a critical hit from a fist, twice the size of his skull, connecting into his back, Laius was sent flying and spinning three and a half rounds before sinking into the wall.

The Pumpkin head of Jack was dyed a fiery red as he narrowed his hollowed out eyes while shouting in anger:

[[Image:Mondaiji-tachi_ga_isekai_kara_kuru_soudesu_yo_v06_109.jpg|thumb]]

“Sheesh. Seriously……How many times must I tell you for it to get into that brain of yours? THIS PLACE HAS BEEN BORROWED! I will be collecting the repair fees for the door and the hole in the wall from you guys!”

“Wa…Wait a moment, Jack-dono! That hole in the wall was caused by you, wasn’t it?!”

The members of [Perseus] desperately tried to counsel Jack on his decision. Though Kuro Usagi and Asuka were quite satisfied by that arrangement.

The leader of [Perseus] ーLaiusー extricated himself from the wall of the workroom and he shouted back even though blood still flowed down from his mouth and nose.

“That hurts….Don’t joke around now, you country Bumpkin…!!! Try that one more time and I will smash your hollow head!!!”

“Hey, next time when you say those words, at least do your best to recall how many times you have been sent flying, will ya? Even if I use all the fingers on both hands, it wouldn’t be enough to count all those times you know……And mind you, I’m not some country Bumpkin. I’m warning you. If you say that one more time, I will make sure that your head split open like a melon.”

“Oh how scary~Bring it on then, you rotten country Bumpkin!”

“Who are you calling a rotten country Bumpkin, eh? You brat!”

“Please knock it off, Laius-sama! Jack-dono!”

The members of [Perseus] had frantically intervened to try cool them off. They no longer wear the armor for knights but were dressed like a normal blacksmith with a thick and heavy looking set of hand gloves.

Kuro Usagi and Asuka exchanged a quizzical glance before raising their hands suddenly to interrupt them:

“Mah, Mah. Please, you two should cool down.”

“That’s right. Jack, you needn’t degrade yourself to talk to such lowly individuals, it will only smear filth on your mouth.”

“Oi. Don’t you try act like some mediator and snub dirt on my nose on the sly! Come to think about it; why would a mere no name come to possess the Sacred Rare Iron and Diamond Iron Ore, which are metals of high spiritual powers? No matter how you look at it, it’s just a waste of such treasures! After all the one who landed Deen in that state must have been her right?!”

“You… You…… What did you say?!”

Asuka’s fighting spirit was kindled by his words for she didn’t expect for him to speak out the words that she had been conscious about.

Asuka, with her veins popping at her temples, stood at akimboー

“Okay, I accept! I will take you up on the challenge!”

“Wa… Wait a moment, Asuka-san?!”

“Goody, Asuka-san accepted the battle! Make sure you beat him up until his head splits like watermelon!”

“Even…Jack-san as well?”

“WHaaaaaaaht? Mere no names want to take me up on a challenge?!! I think you are too confident with yourself here. You're just a shitty girl who’s stupid and old-fashioned. The time has come for you to fall from that height to die a horrible death! You want a piece of me?! Then, let’s get moving! I will show you how I make quick work out of the three of you at the same time!”

“Oi! Everyone knock it offffffff!!!!!!!!!!” The sounds of thunder roared together with Kuro Usagi’s shout.

And the windows of the borrowed No.88 workroom were shattered by the violent lightning and the shockwaves that followed, causing the candle lights to crack into fragments from the secondary and tertiary waves similar to the aftershocks of a natural disaster.

===Part 4===

“Uu Uu……The [Vajra Replica] which had already been half destroyed is now completely destroyed.”

The rabbit ears of Kuro Usagi drooped and she hung her head low while sobbing.

The [Vajra Replica], which she had retrieved after the battle in [Underwood], had already been half destroyed due to its inability to handle the heat and charge released from its true form.

Kuro Usagi had released the Divinity given to it to use it as [Indra’s spear Vajra]. But the weapon had also been destroyed due to the inability to handle the sudden injection of power into it.<ref>[magref notes: yeah it sounds like a repeat…. Hmmm no idea why as well…]</ref>

Feeling ashamed for having acted so immaturely, Jack lightly patted Kuro Usagi’s shoulder.

“I’m… I’m really sorry about that, Kuro Usagi-dono. Please cheer up. If time permits, please let me do the repairs for you.”

“Is…. Is that for real?”

“Yeah. I will even do it at a price negotiable by our relation as allies in the Alliance too♪”

Kuro Usagi’s face immediately brightened up at that as she started to sway her rabbit ears in joy.

But the duo behind her were still locked in a staring showdown and were in the midst of a hostile atmosphere. Though they were much more obedient after Kuro Usagi’s forceful intervention, it seemed that there wasn’t any letting up in their attitudes. Such an atmosphere wasn’t conducive for the discussion to form an Alliance.

Asuka sighed as she scratched her hair while spitting her words in disgust:
“…. This sure is unbelievable. Never did it cross my mind that [Perseus] would be the last Community to join the Alliance.”

“Those are the words that you have taken from my mouth. Of all people to choose, we have to ally with those [No Name]'s? Hah, don’t joke with me. Joining up with some robbers or hooligans would also be more constructive than this.”

“Ararara. Then for [Perseus], that lost to the [No Name]'s, to the point of being badly beaten up ーand hence getting themselves ousted by [Thousand Eyes]ー to fall to the Six digits, what kind of HIGH CLASS COMMUNITY is it then?”

“Shut up! You smelly bitch……”

Sparks were flying between the two who held a strong sense of animosity against each other. Perhaps it was the thought of the pitiful state that the other had already fallen to, the first one to back off was actually Asuka.

Asuka gave a light sigh as she shifted her gaze to Kuro Usagi.

“Kuro Usagi, you have no objections?”

“Eh?”

“The target of our Alliance this time. The various rude acts and his previous attempt to auction off Leticia, aren’t you the least bit bothered by that or even feeling angry?”

For an instant, Kuro Usagi was stumped by Asuka’s words. She must be referring to the various humiliations heaped upon them in the past. If one were to look at all those past incidences, it was definitely not possible for them to be allied under the same Alliance now.

But after giving it some thought, Kuro Usagi shifted her eyes towards Laius.

“Kuro Usagi also have an opinion about the Alliance candidate this time…… But you’ve said something that Kuro Usagi cannot ignore, so Kuro Usagi feels that we should not simply refuse it.”

Asuka also frowned, upon hearing that. Regarding that same line of thought, she was also quite concerned as well.

Laius had shouted loudly earlier about having repaired Deen himself……If that were to be true ーeven if the Alliance arrangement were to break downー they would also want to listen a little more about that matter out of civility.

“Mah. Since Kuro Usagi says so, I will also drop it. But what was that about earlier? Was it really you who repaired Deen?”

“……Hmph. It’s only a simple task for me. We of [Perseus] have been bestowed the Gift of Divinity from one of the [Twelve Olympian Gods], [The God of Blacksmiths, Hephaestus] himself. Using the Gift allows us to work with ores that contain dormant spiritual powers. And that is our Community’s speciality.”<ref>[magref notes: I’ve a feeling that I’m not supposed to use the real names again… hmmm, but I dunno what the fake name should be…]</ref>

Laius gave a thin smile that was overflowing with pride. Though his attitude was really annoying, the weight of his words were of importance and couldn’t be dismissed as another nonsensical rubbish coming from his mouth.

Kuro Usagi folded her arms to mull over it for a while before giving a sigh after having come to an acceptance of reality.

“……the winged armor parts from the God of Commerce, the Helmet of Invisibility from Hades, bestowed with the Goddess shield that has the Gorgon’s head attached to it and a Harpe that can kill the GodsーNo, it should already be a Harpe that can kill Celestial beings right?……And since the shield had not made an appearance in the last Game we played, it must have been offered to the God of Blacksmiths, am I right?”

[The God of Blacksmiths, Hephaestus] is a Greek god amongst the Olympian Gods who have crafted many weapons and armors. He is a God who represents Fire and manufacturing.

He is also the God who crafted the [Thunderbolt of Zeus] and the [Tripod Automatons]<ref>[magref notes: tripod automatons are actually robot like tripods that transport things up and down from Mount Olympus.]</ref> amongst the many other accomplishments in the armory of the Gods. Being the one who supported the Greek mythologies as its backbone.

But Asuka, who stood beside Kuro Usagi, did not seem to catch on to the topic as she tilted her head to ask:

“Hm, what does that mean?”

“It’s said that after [Perseus] defeated the Gorgon, he was bestowed the equipment that consisted of the [Helmet], [Plated boots], [Shield] and [Harpe]. But the [Shield] had been returned to the Goddess……It’s said in the legends that the [Shield] had been fused together with the head of the Gorgon when it was returned. And that’s where the shield of the constellation, [Perseus], resides and the truth behind the [Demon Lord Algol]. As for the one who could have bestowed the technique of fusing the shield and the head……it can only be the God of Blacksmiths right?”

Kuro Usagi recounted the [Perseus] heritage in a fluent manner while Laius started to smile smugly.

But Asuka continued to tilt her head quizzically.

“……?? Hm, which means to say that this young master is actually the descendant of a Great Hero?”

“YES! It’s HIS ANCESTOR who is the Great person!”

“Yahoho! His ANCESTOR really is great!”

“Very well then~, follow me outside now! And make known all those filthy thoughts of yours once and for all! This time Algol and I……”

“ “ “ What a despicable young master.” ” ”

“ALGOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!”
“Please stop it, Laius-sama! Summoning a Celestial class being in the middle of the city isn’t funny at all!” A few knights in their working attire had quickly pounced on Laius to pin him down.

Asuka used the opportunity to digest the information on the heritage of [Perseus].

“I get it now. So the Gift of Divinity from the God of Blacksmiths is also one of the rewards for defeating the Gorgon, right?”

“YES! But it’s most probably not the Divinity itself and just of a Divine equipment that can strengthen the ability to bestow Gifts. And with that, it might just be possible to refine high level ores of the Rare Sacred Iron or Diamond Iron Ore class.”

“Hmph, that sort of fact needn’t be said at all! As long as ore-sama<ref>[magref notes: ok I think it is ore-sama? Is that what they call as the great me in Japanese? Zzz or do you guys prefer the Limbei Singapore slang? Lols]</ref> here makes a move, such a small thing wouldn’t even need much strength……”

“Laius–sama, you can just drop the act already. If it weren’t for Jack-dono, we wouldn’t even know where to start working on those stuff.”

The male aide tried to persuade Laius.

And Laius rewarded him with an angry stare and a click of his tongue, without raising a hand at him.

Giving a sigh, upon envisioning the bumpy road ahead of them for their Alliance pact, Kuro Usagi suddenly remembered something and she turned to Jack:

“There’s something that Kuro Usagi’s been wondering about…… What’s the relationship between [Will O’ Wisp] and [Perseus]? If I were to describe what I’ve seen, you guys don’t look to be on good terms.”

“Yahoho…… Mhm, it can be said as a relation of being indebted of sorts. I may have mentioned it before that we of [Will O’ Wisp] had been attacked many times by [Demon Lord Maxwell].”

“YES. We’ve heard of that before. The feud between your Community and the Demon Lord of the upper Five Digitsー”

“No, that’s already in the past.”

“Eh?” Kuro Usagi cocked her rabbit ears to the side as a gasp of surprise escaped her lips.

Jack continued in a nervous tone.

“That guy isn’t at the Five Digits anymore. It’s said that during the time that we have gone to [Underwood]ー[Demon Lord Maxwell] has ascended to the Four Digits.”

“Four… FOUR DIGITS?!”

Kuro Usagi shouted in dismay.

Beside her, Asuka had also narrowed her eyes as she took on a serious expression.

In Little Garden, the Seven and Six Digits would be called the lower levels while the five digits would make up the middle and from four digits and below, all those would make up the Upper echelon. Although the Five Digits were already counted as the middle levels, the power difference between them and the next level was a difference comparable to that of Heaven and Earth. And that was an accepted truth in this world. In other words, a Demon Lord of the top tiers in the Five Digits shouldn’t be able to easily ascend into the Four Digits.

If it were to be the backing of a [Floor Master], which tend to be of the strongest race, it might still be understandable. But it is rare to see an individual ascend a level on his own.

Kuro Usagi cocked her rabbit ears to one side:

“Four…Digits? For an individual to rise to the Four Digits, it’s already undeniably one of the strongest kind……but it would require a lot of merit for someone who isn’t a [Floor Master] to ascend to the Four digits, wouldn’t it? Or is it to say……”

ーthat he had become the important spiritual power that resulted in a [Paradigm Shift]? But Kuro Usagi had already stopped herself in mid-sentence for it would sound too absurd to be said aloud.

Although this was only a speculation at the moment, but the title of [Demon Lord Maxwell] had most likely been born out of the demon that was speculated to be present within the ideologies of Thermodynamics, which is a sub-topic of Physicsー[Maxwell Demon].

This imaginary Demon had been born after the year of 1860, which is also something that happened in the nineteenth century.

But according to the generally accepted knowledge of Little Garden’s history, the prosperous age of [Paradigm Shift]s that allowed others to break into the upper levels have had happened before the seventeenth century.

And especially after the nineteenth century, the histories branching out from them, had started to split into many various possibilities and the possibilities had grown to the extent where it could no longer be controlled or recorded like before. Then came the twentieth century where the convergence and birth of Gods and Demons have had their boundaries blurred to the point of disappearing altogether. Even if there were records on it, it would only be at the scale of an urban legend. The [Paradigm Shift] that has bestowed Gifts and spiritual powers upon many had already been replaced by Beliefs in the Stronger Religions and that is the situation of the world today.

ーLet’s use this as an example.

[Perseus] is a Knight recorded within the Greek mythologies, having had existed during the BC era. If the spiritual level of [Perseus] were to deteriorate, it might cause the influence of Greek mythology to be weakened in its impact on future generations. And the worst case scenario would not exclude the possibility of being totally annihilated and forgotten.

However, due to the various influences of Greek mythology on Philosophy, Religion and Politics, it opened up many opportunities for them to have a large scale [Paradigm Shift] from their influence. Be it a true story or a story from the myths, they would still continue to appear in all the time-lines IN SOME FORM OR ANOTHER.

Hence those who are elevated to the status of Gods from the collective devotion of Humans will not be able to be killed by normal half-baked means. Since Gods are the milestones of the planet, the spiritual level and power of the individual would then retain the power to resurrect themselves according to the description of the generation that they came from.

And there’s only two ways to kill Gods: to prepare the method to overthrow them in the history that they choose to propagate their followersーor to use a strike that has the destructive power to completely wipe out a large scale of Mankind’s History.

If Celestial Beings were the strongest species that controlled over space and matter with their spiritual power,

Gods would be the strongest species that ruled over the ideologies and eras of their existence with their spiritual power.

(''However, there are also those such as <Journey to the west> that have written contributions propagating into the world outside of Little Garden. If one wanted to use the [Paradigm Shift] to obtain a huge amount of Spiritual power, the only way would be to grab a seat amongst the Gods. Black Death(Percher) was a very irregular example that wouldn’t repeat itself as easily as before……'')

“Kuro Usagi-san. I know what you are thinking about but that fellow isn’t a normal Demon that can be predicted by means of common sense.”

“What do you mean by that?” Kuro Usagi halted her train of thoughts as she cocked her rabbit ears to the side.

The flames in Jack’s hollow eyes took on a melancholic glow then.

“Although it might sound unbelievable…. It’s the truth that [Demon Lord Maxwell] seemed to have triggered a [Paradigm Shift] after the year of 2120AD.”

“2…2120AD?” Kuro Usagi’s rabbit ears had perked up in surprise at that information.

“Wa…Wait a moment! Kuro Usagi haven’t heard of a convergent point at that time before! To have such a long history of being in the chronology of Mankind, it’s already on par with the civilization that worship the Gods! To have that sort of Convergence point occurring in a Parallel world in that era is impossible! Even if it were to occur, it can only be in the next generation of Manki……”

“No, it’s possible. I had thought the same at first and I had doubts before seeing his power with my own eyes……but after witnessing it for myself, I’ve already accepted it as a fact… That fellow is already on par with the Demon Lords of the strongest species.”

A sense of restlessness could be picked up from the glow in Jack’s pumpkin eye cavities and it did not seem to feel like a pretense at all.

Asuka who knew of Jack’s strength first-hand had also contracted the nervousness as she gave a sigh.

“……Is that so? No wonder you guys have chosen to work alongside [Perseus]. Aside from the fact that he’s an immature young master, it’s undeniable that he possess the power to control a Celestial Being.”

“Oi, who are you calling immature?”

“Yes, that’s the case.”

“At least deny that on my behalf!!! Aren’t we part of the same Alliance?!”

Asuka and Jack exchanged a meaningful look and nodded their heads. While Laius seemed to have cried out a protest, they had just ignored him.

ー[Perseus] was able to call upon the Celestial spirit of Algol.

Though she might have been defeated by Izayoi previously, her power is still one of the undeniably large existences. If one could borrow that sort of power, they would definitely be willing to set aside most of their discontent.

“……Well, I guess there’s that to consider and I might give that some consideration during the formation of the Alliance.”

“Is that true, Asuka san?”

“Mhm. But……”

In an instant, her eyes had lighted with anger once again.

“The prerequisite would be for the Leader of [Perseus] to apologize for all the rudeness shown to the [No Name]s previously.”

“Ha…Haaah? Why do I have to do that sort of thing?!”

“Then let’s end it as that. We will find another Community to ally with. Good. Bye!”

Asuka lifted her hand to wave her farewell and Laius’s expression suddenly fell solemn.

Noticing his look, Asuka started to snigger confidently in her heart.

(''As I thought, there’s a catch behind all this.'')

Considering the character of this man ーLaiusー he would definitely not agree to an Alliance without any conditions that benefited him.

In addition to the fact that [Demon Lord Maxwell] rose to the Four Digits, it should be more so then ever. Without a similarly high return for the high risk, he wouldn’t have been willing to accept such an alliance.

And from how Asuka had seen it, the relationship between the two Communities seemed to be in a manner that Jack could lead Laius by the nose. And she guessed that [Perseus] must have been promised some great returns.

Grabbing hold of that point in mind, Asuka announced in a haughty attitude:

“Well then, what do you say? Regarding the rudeness towards [No Name]s……Okay, let’s just start with you bowing your head to apologize to Kuro Usagi and Leticia.”

Asuka gracefully flung back her hair as she taunted Laius. If he were the Laius she knew, he would definitely jump at that taunt in rage.

However, Laius displayed an unexpected amount of self-control as he replied in a voice quivering with restrained anger:

“……That’s… That’s okay. I will accept that condition.”

“Ara, what a surprise. Looks like the Community might have fallen but you have matured a little as well. Then, what are you waiting for……”

“But I will also have a condition on my end!”

Facing Laius’s challenge, Asuka straightened herself.

“Your tone seems a little forceful. Do you think you have the right to say those words?”

“Anyways, I would have to say this condition no matter what consequences there might be! If the benefits do not go both ways, there wouldn’t be a point in having an Alliance! If I don’t test out whether the [No Name]s have the strength required to join the alliance, how do you expect me to continue on with the talks?”

Laius stood up huffy as he pointed to Deen:

“Using the three types of weapons including Deen, obtain a victory in the <Duel of Creators>. If you cannot do thatーThese three weapons will be mine!”

<noinclude>

===Translator’s notes===
<references/>

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| Back to [[Mondaiji-tachi_ga_isekai_kara_kuru_soudesu_yo:Volume_6_Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Mondaiji-tachi_ga_isekai_kara_kuru_soudesu_yo|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Mondaiji-tachi_ga_isekai_kara_kuru_soudesu_yo:Volume_6_Interlude|Interlude]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 3

2014-06-03T10:35:19Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, ichi, words.

==Chapter 3 - Navi's visit and practical skill test==
===Part 1===
“Now, let’s celebrate the passing of our written test… I, Silvia Lautreamont will lead this toast”

Tonight, the Dragon Fang Restaurant was full of the shouts of brawny men.

At their table, Silvia was a little embarrassed for trying to propose a toast since she doesn’t seem to be used to dealing with such a situation.

''I shouldn’t have left this to Silvia…'' Ash thought.

“You don’t have to think about the unnecessities. All right, cheers!”

“Umm… Cheers!”

Silvia was a little embarrassed when their glasses touched.

Today is the third day after the written exam ended. Both Ash and Silvia were summoned by Mirabel who was acting as the director, and were told that they had passed.

Silvia had scored full marks for all her subjects and ended her year as the top.

Ash on the other hand had barely passed. Although he still had the practical test, whatever the case may be, to him the exam had ended the moment the difficult written test was done.

That is why they came to Dragon Fang Restaurant to celebrate, however…

“Cheers! Eco, you too!... Eco?”

“Huu…”

Ash invited Eco but she only replied with a sigh. She didn’t even touch her glass which was placed on the table.

Similar to the past few days, she seemed to have something on her mind. Although she was showing gloomy looks, her beautiful face still looked like a lily growing in the middle of a valley.

Speaking of the devil, Eco had lost her appetite for some time. If she was judged according to the standard where a dragon requires five meals a day, her condition is indeed worrisome.

“Are you really all right?”

“…Uuh. Yeah.”

After finishing her sentence, she gulped down the vegetable soup. However, she didn’t seem to notice the beef fillet which was the main dish.

Ash was out of choices and gave Silvia a glance in hope that she would help him. However, Silvia shook her head as if she was telling him it is okay to leave it as it was.

Due to that, Ash tried to change the topic.

“By the way, Princess-sama, do you have any place that you want to head to for your practical test?”

“Umm, nothing particularly on my mind right now. What about you? Is there any place on your mind right now?”

“I too don’t have any place I particularly want to go to…”

Perhaps she caught a few words in their conversation, Eco immediately lifted her head and puffed up her checks in objection.

“Hey…. Where are the both of you going to?”

“It is not just the both of us. You and Lancelot will be going together with us.”

“What do you mean?”

“It is about our practical test. Our theme is an expedition. We were asked to go to a designated location while riding on our Pals. Then we have to bring back a special local product with us and show it to the academy to pass.”

The dragon riding academy’s practical test was quite standard. Even Ash felt disappointed when he heard the theme from Mirabel.

“Hmm… But if that’s the case, you don’t have any obligation to follow Silvia right?”

Eco seemed unsatisfied.

“No, I can’t. For safety reasons, it is better for us to work as a team. And since only the two of us took supplementary exams, there is only the two of us to form a team.”

“But I won’t be able to fly you and bring you to your destination. And I can’t even transform according to my own will. I am not even fit to become a Pal.”

Ash hurriedly replied when he saw Eco was speaking to him with a serious look.

“You don’t have to worry about that. We will be riding on Lancelot together. Right, Princess-sama?”

“Aah, Anee-ue had agreed and Lancelot seems to have taken a liking to the both of you. You don’t have to worry about it.”

“See, even Princess-sama said so.”

“Then, it means that it doesn’t matter whether I am present or not! This world doesn’t have a place for me as a human or a dragon!”

Eco suddenly stood up with a sad look on her face.

And her chair fell with a bang.

All the customers around focused their attention on Ash and the gang wondering what had happened.

“Eco, please calm down!” Ash tried to sooth her.

“Shut up! Don’t even try bothering me!”

After her reply, Eco ran straight into a waitress carrying drinks.

“Kyaa!”

Eco shrieked and fell on her butt. The waitress, after Eco crashed into her, also fell onto her back. The stuff in her hands went flying in mid air, and the transparent coloured liquid drew out a beautiful curve.

''ーSplash.''

The glasses fell on Eco’s head.

“Huh?”

Eco, who was now wet from head to toe, was confused when she stood up.

“Eco!”

“Are you hurt anywhere?”

Ash and Silvia hurriedly rushed towards Eco.

“This smell… Could this be?”

Ash immediately noticed the rose like smell.

This is quite common in Ansarivan. It was especially popular among young ladies as a herb.

On the other hand, it was well known as a kind of indulgence for the dragons. However, it was something that a young dragon like Eco shouldn’t go near.

That herb was calledー Ansal.

Since the start of the summer holidays, Ash always went to Dragon Fang Restaurant for his meals. This was not just because its prices were cheap, but also because most of its customers were men. Thus, Ansal was not used as a menu to attract ladies to the shop.

“Huff…”

After a breath, Eco hugged Ash. Her face was completely red.

“Excuse me! What is this drink!?” Silvia hurriedly asked and the waitress replied with tears in her eyes:

“Err… The new menu. Ansal wine.”

“What!” Ash was panicking.

''When was this added to the menu?''

“I-I can’t… I can’t hold it any longer…” Eco took action the next moment.

She embraced Ash.

“Uwaa! Eco!”

Ash could feel two soft lumps against his stomach. Although their size was not really big, he knew that they had grown since the last time…

“Stop, Eco! Not at a place like this…!”

Ash was getting dizzy.

“Huff… Ash… Ash…”

As if it was some sort of a spell, Eco kept calling Ash’s name.

Their sweat on their cloths had mixed together and Ash could clearly feel Eco’s body heat.

“Please… Look at me… Look only at me…”

Eco was clinging to Ash and with one hand, she tried to unbutton her blouse with the other. She revealed her white skin and even her collar bone can clearly be seen.

As if to stimulate a man, there was a sweet and sour smell coming from Eco.

“You… You can do anything you like to me…” Eco, who was drunk, was like a little devil.

“H-How shameless! How dare you do this in public!?” Silvia was just looking from the sidelines and started to notice something. She started blushing and her fist was trembling in front of her chest.

“H-Hold on! Eco is drunk! Can you please give me a hand!”

Ash was begging Silvia while Eco was toying with him.

“Even if you say that… What should I do?”

Silvia was looking around aimlessly with her face red.

By taking a look at the people around, most of them had their attention on Ash and Eco. There were people who were waiting excitedly and people who were cheering. And of course there were people like Silvia who were disgusted by it.

Just when Ash noticed the glances from around…

“Mmm!” Eco suddenly nibbled Ash’s ear.

“Urgh…!”

Ash felt a sudden electric jerk in his body but he still tried to endure it.

Eco tasted his ear for just an instant and let go of it.

There was saliva connecting his earlobe to Eco’s lips.
[[Image:SnRK v05 136.jpg|thumb|Love… I love you…]]

“Love… I love you…”

After a few seconds, Ash finally realized what Eco meant when she whispered those words into his ears.

“Eco…?” Ash was in a shock.

It was because she was drunkー Due to her being drunk, she can fully express her true self that she hid from others.

After a breath, Eco uses her arms to surround Ash and embraced him.

“Uwaa!”

Ash fell backwards in that position.

“I… I Have something that I always wanted.” Eco was looking at Ash with her drowsy eyes.

Beneath her beauty hides a prostitute-like boldness.

Ash’s heart almost exploded.

Just when he was almost absorbed into her deep red eyes, Ash quickly questioned her.

“What… What do you want?”

Eco laid her face on Ash’s chest and spoke the most important words of the night with a sweet voice.

“I want to have Ash’s baby.”

After saying those words, Eco lost her strength and fell asleep.

===Part 2===
“Haa… We probably won’t be welcomed in Dragon Fang Restaurant for the coming few days.” Ash gave a long sigh in the changing room of the royal room in Epona house.

After Eco slept, Ash was first scolded severely by the burly manager, then he was bathed with the jeers from the customers around, lastly he was given a strict lecture from Silvia.

He was totally exhausted when he carried Eco back to Epona House.

In short, Ash planned to take his bath while Silvia was helping him to take care of Eco.

After removing the bandages, his contract with Eco- his Seikoku was exposed.

When he was fighting Mordred in the capital, his Seikoku had spread throughout his body. However, since it was a matter of life and death situation, he didn’t think much about it. But, it was no normal situation.

Never in his life had he heard about the Seikoku changing its shape and spreading all over his body.

“There are still many things that I don’t understand…”

While he was mumbling, Ash glanced at the Seikoku on his left arm.

Although he still hated the idea of letting others looking at it, surprisingly, it doesn’t felt as annoying as it used to be.

Ash opened the door and entered the bathroom.

The bathtub was shaped like an egg that was sliced in half and its size should be able to fit three people at the same time. The floor, walls and ceilings were made from marble.

On the ceiling was a dragon crystal lamp which gave out an orange light which somehow made him felt like he was in a dream.

The bathing powder was made from halite and lavender. It was so comfortable that a person could fall asleep if he or she is being careless.

As expected from the royal bathroom, everything in it is a luxury.

Ash was thinking about the events that happened in Dragon Fang Restaurant while enjoying his bath.

It is not like Eco had never gotten drunk before but what happened before was nothing compared to this.

''-“I want to have Ash’s baby.”''

Eco words kept on repeating in his mind.

“Could it be that she was thinking about this?… Even so, of course I like Eco…. But I am a human and Eco is a dragon…”

''Could it possibly be that she was troubled by this…!?''

“But in reality…. Could we make a child?”

“If you are worried about that, why don’t you have a try?”

“Uwaa!”

Ash immediately leaped up when he heard an alluring voice from behind.

Ash hurriedly cover his front and turned around to look at the owner of the voice.

“Eco!? When did you…!?”

“Huhu.”

Eco gave a bewitching smiled with her knees showing above the waters. It seemed that she entered while Ash was troubled by his thoughts.

They were in the bathroom.

As expected, Eco was stark naked. Although the steam had her body covered, it was still bad for his heart. Ash was troubled just by looking at her shoulders and her chest.

Ash who was in the tub turned around to avoid looking at Eco.

“Shouldn’t you be sleeping? What about Princess-sama?”

“That child was almost asleep.”

“That child?”

Ash felt that something was off. Eco would never call Silvia as ‘that child’. Together with her alluring voice and bewitching smile, she doesn’t feel like the usual Eco.

“Why are you facing the other side? I don’t mind you looking at me.”

“Err.. No… That’s…”

Some unexpected things made him stay silent.

''-“I want to have Ash’s baby.”''

Right at that moment, the words resurfaced in his mind.

“Huhu… How cute.”

A splash was heard from behind. ''Eco had stood up…'' Ash’s body stiffened when he though about it.

Eco then hugged Ash from behind.

“Hold on! This is bad! Real bad…!”

Eco gently placed her chin on Ash’s right shoulder while both of her arms surrounded his body under his armpits.
[[Image:SnRK v05 007.jpg|thumb|'' Eco gently placed her chin on Ash’s right shoulder while both of her arms surrounded his body under his armpits. The worst problem of all was Eco’s tiny breast were leaning up against his back.'']]

The worst problem of all was Eco’s tiny breast were leaning up against his back.

There was nothing in between them and Ash could clearly feel the two tiny beans on his back.

''What is wrong with Eco?''

Ash first thought that Eco was still drunk, but she doesn’t act like she was drunk.

Rather than that it seemed like she was a total different individual.

''ーA different individual…? Now I understand!''

Ash finally noticed another possibility.

“That kind of speech… You are Navi, am I right?”

“Huhu. Correct.”

Navi smiled in disappointment and released Ash. Ash on the other hand was finally able to released that tension built up and breathe a sigh of relieve.

“Can’t you appear normally?”

The is the first time Navi appeared using Eco’s body.

“Well, it is boring being a spirit all the time. Apart from that do you like the normal me more? Huhu. It is indeed the truth that I have larger breasts and my butt is bigger,”

“That’s not the point!”

“How innocent. There is a saying that all heroes are perverts, however you seems to be an exception. Or are you holding back?”

“About that, I can’t say that I have no interest in it at all… No, forget about it!”

Ash just thought of an important thing.

“I heard it from Prince Julius! He said that Navi, you are the Dragweiss itself!”

A treasure of knowledge that was accumulated by the ancestral dragonsー The Dragweiss. Eco was able to obtain various kinds of information just by searching there.

Since the beginning, Ash thought that it was just a data bank. Until recently, Ash had heard the truth of the Dragweiss from Julius.

“Right, that’s true.” Navi admitted and changed the way she crossed her legs in the hot water.

Although she looked like Eco, her actions have Navi’s maturity, it made Ash’s heart skipp a beat.

“Julius also told me that Eco will gain her true strength when she merges with the Dragweiss. If that is true, what will happen to Navi after you two had merged?”

“Me? I will just disappear.”

Ash wasn’t able to understand her immediately since she spoke such a thing calmly.

“Let’s say if all the living thing are destined to die the day they were born, to me, my death was the day I'll merge with Eco. I was '''created''' for this sole purpose. While Eco is still a young dragon, I can guide her as a navigator. However, once Eco growns up, I am just a ‘source of information.’ Although an encyclopedia stores much information, at the same they don’t have a will. Similarly, the will called ‘Navi’ will no longer be needed.”

“Now that you mentioned it, during the first time you entered my dream, I remember you told me that ‘the me who was going to be born will now be in your hands’ means…. In short, you and Eco are the same person since both of you are going to merge together?”

“Ara, you still remember that?” Navi smiled as if she was surprised.

“How can I forget about that!”

Ash’s cheeks had gotten red hot just from remembering. Although it was in his dream, Navi was caressing his entire body with love.

“I am so glad. Even though that happened in a dream… Why don’t we continue with what happened in that dream? Although this body is below average.”

After that, Navi tried lifting her breast which caused Eco’s nipple almost visible above the water. Ash hurriedly averted his sight.

“W-What are you talking about! How can I even do that!”

“Ara, why not? This is a bathroom and a guy and a girl are in it alone together, naked. Furthermore, Silvia was dozing off and there is nothing that will interrupt us.

“Nooooo! What about Eco! Although you said that you will merge with Eco, you still can’t ignore her opinion in this!”

After being rejected by Ash, Navi seemed to lose all her interest.

“Tsk… You are overly serious. How boring. But that is what make you interesting. So, shall we start with the main topic?”

“Main topic?”

Ash was taken aback. Navi will never appear without a reason. She borrowed Eco’s body to deliver Ash a message.

“I have a message from The Lady to the Avalon Imperial Princess and her knight which is you.”

Navi’s facial expression suddenly turned serious and Ash immediately straightened his body in the bathtub.

“Who is this… Lady?”

“Mother Dragon.”

“Haa!?”

Ash turned speechless.

“She said: ‘Come visit me at Albion Forest'.”

“Why suddenly…. Why in the world would she look for Eco and me?”

“That, you should ask her.”

Navi answered coldly.

“So now I am summoned by the Mother Dragon after Paladin Oswald. What else could happened in my coming life?”

“Huhu. The moment you become the knight of Avalon, you are no longer normal. Why don’t you try facing it proudly?’

“That sounds like a lot of trouble… But I too have a thing that I would like to ask Mother Dragon.”

“What’s that problem?”

“Since I am a breeder, it also means that I met with her before. However, I don’t have any memories regarding it. I would like to know what happened during the Orphan Ceremony.”

“Isn’t this a good chance? Plus it is in the summer holidays.”

“That’s right… Why don’t I choose Albion Forest as the destination for my practical test? With this, I can kill two birds with one stone.”

Although it was an idea that came out at the spur of the moment, Ash still thinks that it was a good one. With this, he can complete the practical test and meet with Mother Dragon. He made up his mind to discuss this with Silvia later.

“But, does the Mother Dragon…. Understands human language?”

“Don’t worry about that. She is a special being.”

“Understood. I will head to Albion Forest as soon as possible. Since I don’t think that I have the power to refuse.”

“Huhu. That is how it should be. Good byeー”

“Eh?”

After leaving suddenly, at the same time when Ash was confused, her body had lost all its strength and fall on Ash.

It seemed that Navi had finally returned Eco’s body.

“Uwaa! What happened!?”

Ash immediately hold on to Eco’s body. Her conscious had not yet return. She was leaning on Ash’s body like a doll.

Ash looked up to the ceiling to avoid looking at Eco’s white naked body. But their body below the water were sticking against each other.

''ーThis is bad…''

Ash tried to hold himself back by recalling all the mathematics equation he learned in class and praying to St Rosa Maria.

Suddenly, the bathroom door was opened with a bang.

“Eco! Are you here!?”

Silvia who should be dozing off was taking a look. It must be that when she opened her eyes and saw that Eco was no longer there, she hurriedly tried searching for her… But now is not the time to analyse what had happened.

“Hey, Ash…”

As if she can see through the mist, Silvia’s sight fell on Ash and Eco.

Silvia turned red and shouted in rage:

“What the hell are you doing in the bathroom of my house!?”

“This is not what it seems! There is a reason behind this!”

“ ‘A knight should admit his faults and learn from it’ー This the Lautreamont Family motto!”

“Urgh…”

Silvia’s iron fist exploded and caused the water to splash up until it hit the ceiling.

===Part 3===
Ash and the rest passed their free time before the bedtime. The entire living room was full of the smell of the herbal tea that Ash made.

Eco whose body was borrowed by Navi had regained consciousness and now was sitting beside Silvia.

“I see. So that is what had happened.”

Silvia was full of embarrassment when she heard from Ash about Navi.

“For Pete’s sake, you should now know, that you should try to understand the situation before you start beating someone up. My body won’t be able to handle it.”

“A-About that… I am really sorry.”

Although it felt a little awkward, Silvia still apologized to Ash.

“I on the other hand had no reasons to cuddle around with Eco naked, no?... Huh? …Anything wrong, Eco?”

Eco was red from the ears. She was clenching her fists above her knees and her eyes were wondering around for a few moments and finally stopped when she looked at Ash.

“You… Did you see my naked body?”

Seeing that cute face, Ash’s heart skipped a beat.

“No! Please rest assured! Because of the mist, I saw nothing!”

Ash answered everything like a bullet speed.

“…That’s a relieve.”

Eco breathe a sigh of relieve.

She who had changed from sleeping naked into wearing pyjamas because she was embarrassed from being seen by Ash naked.

Eco who was born to be a beauty was right now more beautiful that any flowers or even more attractive than any gems.

Ash who was unconsciously attracted by Eco suddenly came back to his sense and looked at Silvia.

“Th-That’s right… I have something to talk to Princess-sama. For the practical exam, can we head to Albion Forest?”

“Hmm, that’s a good idea. Since the both of you were summoned by Mother Dragon and sooner or later both of you had to head there. So why not use the practical exam as an excuse to head to Albion Forest and complete everything in one go.”

Silvia nodded.

“Of course we won’t force Princess-sama to join us and we won’t blame you if you decline our invitation.”

Ash was worried about Silvia but instead she stood up and declared:

“You don’t have to be reserved, Ash. For I Silvia Lautreamont will definitely help you. Tomorrow, we will meet with Mirabel Onee-sama to discuss about it.’

“Thank you, Princess-sama.”

Ash replied politely with a smile but Silvia turned her face to the side with her cheeks red.

“T-There is no need for you to thank me!”

Ash gave a wry smile and stood up from the sofa and walked towards Eco.

“That’s it, Eco… When we were in Dragon Fang Restaurant, you said that you won’t be accepted as a dragon or as a human… Right now, I guarantee that there is no such a thing. And I also forbid you from saying that again.”

After that, Ash placed his hand on Eco’s head and fiddled with her soft hair. Eco for a short moment became shocked but she allowed him to continue.

“…Um, I understand.”

Eco was looking at Ash with her face in rosy red colour.

Her ruby like eyes were wet and were trembling.

“…!”

Eco’s cuteness made him stop breathing.

There two of them were just staring at each other.

Ash’s sight stopped at Eco’s lips and couldn’t move away from them.

“Eco…”

“Ash…”

They called out each other’s name at the same time.

“Ahem. Have you forgotten about the presence of Silvia Lautreamont?”

“Uwaa! Sorry, Princess-sama!”

Under Silvia’s cold glare, Ash hurriedly moved away from Eco’s side.

"The Navigator~A.S.B.1365.8~" is closed.
<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

User talk:Aoi uchuu

2014-05-04T21:01:34Z

Aoi uchuu: Hmmmm...

=Comment Section=

===Please feel free to add anything you feel relevant. Or possibly something completely different?===

==My most prized comment==

Excuse me to write here, but I just want to thank you for the awesome edit you are doing for Gakusen. Thanks again. Setsuna86 (talk) 02:19, 16 January 2014 (CST)
::“(Setsuna is a translator for Gakusen Toshi Asterisk.)

==My most embarrassing comment==

I happened to notice that your most recent edit to Gakusen v3c4 changed the person who muttered "I wonder if something happened" from Kirin to Saya. You may have already checked before making that change (I don't know what's correct), but I'm just bringing it up in case the change in who muttered that line was unintentional. Regards, --Cthaeh (talk) 21:04, 17 January 2014 (CST) Comment Section.

*I suppose I should respond to this. Of course the correction was made within a day of logging in. In a somewhat lame defense it was a mistake born from sloppiness. Basically, I was working from an edit of an edit.

::''To correct this error in procedure some changes have been made.''

#First of all, I now always keep a copy of the original.
#Secondly. I now use a really cool a duel panel code editor. This allows a comparison of the edited copy and the original at all times. The program also allows me to edit a whole chapter at once. (Which is especially important because of my lackluster Internet connection.)
#Thirdly. It allows me to actually read a great Baka-Tsuki Light Novel chapter and edit it at the same time.
#Fourth. The second round of editing is much easier. Additionally, since it is always compared to the original, it allows a result that is much more closer to the authors and translators original intent to be produced.
#Fifth. The third edit is usually saved for much later, after all the novels have been read, and is meant to normalize the consistency of terms, expressions and conventions if needed.

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Epilogue

2014-04-12T21:56:12Z

Aoi uchuu: Introduce British terms. More conservitive.

==Epilogue==
===Part 1===
Two days later.

Ash, who was sleeping soundly on the futon on the floor, suddenly opened his eyes.

"Hey...... Eco? How come you are here again......?"

Eco not only rolled off from her bed but also squeezed into Ash’s futon.<ref>Blanket like bed, it is laid on the floor.</ref>

Eco, like always. still sleeps naked.

The morning light, shining through a slit of the curtain, falls upon her white skin. After he realized this his heartbeats began to increase… Ash quickly looks aside.

"Myuu..."<ref>Sound FX of sleeping, not snoring.</ref>

Eco did not know that Ash was suffering, like a little baby afraid of loneliness she stuck closely to him. Ash has a bad premonition. Because when Eco acted this way… It means that she is ready to proceed to do 'that' "behavior".

"... Ow!"

Sure enough. Ash's chest started to itch and his body is covered with goose bumps.

Eco is nibbling.

"Mmm. Hmm ..."

Her rose like lips. Her teeth are constantly nibbling him, and her tongue is also licking him all over. After all, since this is a young dragon’s natural instinct, she cannot be blamed......

“Eco...... Stop...... If you continue...... Ow!"

When Ash felt that something is wrong, Eco gave a hard bite. That strength has long passed the stage of nibbling, her teeth are now biting into his flesh.

"It hurts! Didn’t you hear me saying that my life is at stake if you continue biting?"

Ash, while struggling with the pain, is wrestling with Eco. At that moment… There is a sudden knock.

“Ash! Wake up! Princess Veronica is asking for you!"

Rebecca's serious voice can be heard in the room through the door.

===Part 2===
Ash, led by Rebecca, is brought to the airship Silvanus. Eco, who has not yet woken up, was left in the dormitory.

"......Is Princess and Max not coming?"

"Silvia has long ago arrived at the ship. As for Max...... he is now busy removing the SKFC's new poster, he said he really couldn't stand them."

"The posters again? What do they announce this time?"

"Instead of listening to me.. For your own sake, you should see for yourself."

Rebecca pulls out a folded paper from her pocket. After Ash receives the paper, he flips it open and reads it.

The President’s Handover notification.

I, Jessica Valentine have decided to join the student’s council in charge of the general affairs. From today onwards, I’ll resign from the duties of the President of SKFC.

The new president will be taken over by vice president Lynette (Basic Course Third Year).

Former SKFC President Jessica Valentine (Advanced Course First Year)

"... How come?"

"As you know. If the SKFC knew the true identity of the 'Silver Knight’ things will definitely get out of hand. So I recruited Jessica who knew the truth to prevent further information leakage."

"Sorry... it is my fault for letting Jessica-san know my secret. I didn’t realize it meant that I’m going to meet her now and then in the student council... I feel that my future has become dark."

"The way Jessica does things is always unpredictable. You must be careful not to let her push you down on the bed and let her squeeze out some strange things."

"No, no, don’t talk anymore nonsense!"

"Having said that are you having a ruckus with Eco in the bed everyday?"

After hearing this Ash is surprised for a moment.

"W-We do not do it every day!"

Ash is so embarrassed that he quickly denied.

"Being provoked by a girl in that way...... That…… You are still a healthy guy, don’t you feel anything?"

It is rare Rebecca will use such euphemistic tone while questioning.

“It is impossible…… cause Eco is my Pal. She is a dragon! I don't even feel a thing."

“Really?”

“I-It’s true”

"Why are you stuttering?”

Rebecca with a cheeky smile peeps at Ash's face.

“Alright. Please don’t tease me anymore.”

“Sorry. Every time I tease you… I can’t stop myself.”

“Please control yourself a little! I beg you.”

A few moments later. The magicship Silvanus appeared in front of the two.

===Part 3===
By following the schedule Veronica is to leave Ansarivan today. Even when Ash thought that he wouldn’t run into any more trouble this time, once he walked into the navigation room he got a great shock.

"Avdocha the C-Convict!"

Veronica is leisurely sitting in the captain's seat, and the person beside her is actually the convict Avdocha. She remains riding on the back of the basilisk.

It seems that she escaped death from being frozen. Even Ash felt relieved because he didn’t want to kill anyone, but he still cannot help but wonder why Avdocha is in the navigation room freely.

"...... Ash. It was all part ofAnee-ue’s strategy."

Silvia, who arrived earlier, reveals a regretful expression and sighs while talking to Ash.

Cosette and Prim are behind Silvia. From their smiling expressions, it's likely they were also informed in advance.

"Strategy...... What on earth is happening?"

"To put it bluntly. This was an arrangement to train this unworthy sister." Veronica confidently answered for Silvia.

From how she speaks there isn't even the slightest hint of an apology.

Captain Glenn is also beside Veronica. He seems displeased, but is it his own thought?

"So the whole incident... is an arranged farce?"

Ash is speechless. He pretended to casually glance at Rebecca from the side but it seems that she didn’t feel surprise.

"Don’t tell me that... Rebecca-san you had noticed?"

Rebecca said grimly.

"I do think that this is a little strange, but I’m not that sure. Any way. This particular terrorist act is too low for the 'Avdocha the Convict' standard. Plus the coincidence that Silvia was involved… So it has become a little too dramatic."

Ash remembered when he was using the Ark-weapon Brionac, Avdocha seemed to have something to say. It must have been that she was going to admit that this was all Veronica’s plan, and the so-called terrorist act is in fact a farce; but just before she speaks, she is frozen.

"So to say. Could it be... That the bombs are fakes?"

Avdocha straightforwardly answered Ash.

"No, They were real. The other objective of the farce is to train my men."

"What ...!"

Ash is speechless.

"Avdocha. If you don’t mind, please re-introduce yourself."

Under Veronica's urge, Avdocha reluctantly began to introduce herself.

"As you know, in my past, I have been doing revolutionary activities…. But five years ago when I failed to assassinate Veronica, I surrendered to her at that time. Now my job has become the leader of the foreign force that Veronica created. This job is a great humiliation for me..."

"That being the case… Why are you now working under her?"

Ash's curiosity made Avdocha fell annoyed.

“Didn’t I mention this before? I have been looking for a long-lost sister and her name is Shamara. Before I know her whereabouts I must not get killed."

"So you really have a lost sister."

"If she is still alive she should be around 15 this year. Anyway, We were separated when she was four years old, so I can only imagined how she looks grown up. But––"

At this time Veronica mercilessly interrupted this touching conversation.

"To simply put it, this time I’m the reason that you are dragged into the Royal’s problems. Fortunately, Silvia seems to have grown up a little. Communication officer. Play the recordings."

"Understood!"

The communications officer operates the controls. After a few seconds, Silvia's voice with a slight static is played.

『 '' 'I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!' ''』

Silvia blushed.

“D-Don’t play it anymore onee-sama!"

"Hehe...... No matter how many times it is repeated, I’ll never get tired of it."

Ash, for the first time, saw Veronica expose a happy mood. He had been thinking that she was always a very strict and ruthless person.

"Hee, Ash-sama, do you know why this airship was named Silvanus?"

Cosette, without Ash realising, moved closer and whispers in his ear.

"I don’t know."

"Don’t you think the two names Silvanus and Silvia is somewhat similar?"

Ash could not help but smile.

"What the...... In the end, Veronica is actually very kind to her sister?"

Cosette smiles at Ash and moves back to Silvia.

"Huh? Anyway… What will happen to Her Royal Highness Princess' marriage?"

Hearing Ash's question Veronica replies with a ''"Hmph"''.

"Since I had seen Silvia’s determination, I’ll forget about it. But as long as your performance does not match that of a knight's––then we will see?"

Under the fierce watchful eye from woman in the captain’s seat Silvia seems embarrassed, but...

“Just like what I want. Anee-ue.”

Finally, she demonstrated an air which was different from her past, and resolutely answered.

===Part 4===
The airship Silvanus, as scheduled, departs from Ansarivan.

Apart from the mayor and the principal––the student’s council members led by Rebecca, Maestro Cú Chulainn and Maestro Lancelot are all present.

"Ash. Didn't you think that the terrorist attacks launched by Avdocha were in fact as simple as a farce?"

The airship is on its way leaving. Rebecca cast a mischievous sight but Ash was surprised.

"Huh? Are there other reasons?"

"Of course. First of all, knowing Veronica will visiting Ansarivan, many dangerous people are sure to sneak into the city. But since 'Avdocha the Convicted' was first to launch a terrorist attack, those people lost their opportunities."

Ash's eyes widened.

Veronica managed to predict this thing only so that she considered to arrange that farce?

"Not only that, when all of us were focusing on the church, Princess Veronica’s men secretly took action looking out for suspicious people. Which may include those who were involved in the Necromancia’s attacks."

"So those who are caught...?"

"They are currently all kept in Silvanus. After returning to the capital they will probably have to face a terrible interrogation."

"What a scary person...!"

He didn’t expect Veronica’s tour of Ansarivan to have actually been so carefully planed.

This battle alone is enough to run people dry… She even managed to design it so to let Silvia grow up. That's totally genius.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p260.jpg|thumb|Ash could not help but smile while staring intently at the floating airship’s shadow that drifted further and further away.]]

This time Silvia seems unwillingly muttered.

"Anee-ue is gifted; She was capable of doing such things since long ago... I’m still far away from her."

"No. Princess will be able to surpass her."

Ash assured her.

"What…! W-Why do you sound so sure!"

Silvia blushed.

"No real reason––"

Ash could not help but smile while staring intently at the floating airship’s shadow that drifted further and further away.

The reason is simple.

Because before the airship took flight… What Veronica said to Silvia is still clearly engraved in Ash’s mind––

"Silvia! You have the ability, so try to become the Paladin! Then, try to make me kneel before you!"

"The Knight of ECO II" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Illustrations|Volume 3 Novel Illustrations]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4

2014-04-12T21:50:01Z

Aoi uchuu: Introduced British terms (odd they weren't in the originl for this chapter). 2nd edit more conservitive.

==Chapter 4 - Avdocha the Convicted==
===Part 1===
Early in the morning, Ash put on his uniform and rushed out of the magicship Silvanus straight to school.

Since he has obtained Veronica’s permission last night the guards in charge did not stop Ash.

On the way there Ash didn't encounter Captain Glenn. Of course, Ash also simply did not want to meet him.

By quickly running up the stairs he finally arrived at the Student’s Council’s office.

"I’m entering."

He openes the door without hesitation and then instantly… An object, like a cannon, flew into his arms.

"Oh! ......Eco?"

Eco’s body is soft.

Yesterday she probably went to stay in Rebecca's room for the night. He smells a sweet scent. One that that will not make you tired of it and yet will also make you feel refreshed.

"Something wrong?"

Eco’s attitude made Ash feel troubled. The feeling is like that between a pet and its owner that have been separated for a long time, and it leaped at its owner when they were reunited.

The thing that he doesn't understand is… Does Eco have those kind of feelings? They didn’t see each other for only one night... And yet. Her personality has become so docile?

"It's annoying that you are so slow…..."

Eco buries her face in Ash’s chest and is reluctant to let go. Not only did she not let go there are also signs that she is hugging him a lot more tightly. The heat from her is transferring to Ash's body.

If it's only just that… Then he can let it be. Right after that thought, Eco grabbed Ash’s tie and pulled him right into the front of her face.

"S-Slow down. Wait... My neck is going to break ...!"

Ash quickly put his finger into the gap between tie and neck which barely enables him to breathe. At least he is now free from the danger of suffocating.

What is wrong with Eco so early in the morning?

Her cheeks are bright pink and her eyes are watery.

Ash is struggling but Eco continues to attack.

"Huff......"

After making that cute sound… Eco’s feet begin wrapping around his leg.

Her legs in knee socks, one of them sliding in between Ash thighs. The moment her soft thigh came into contact with his crotch his whole body shivers.

"No...... My body is so hot... I can’t stand it any longer." Eco gasped.

As she kept tugging Ash’s tie while lifting her body up.

Her half opened lips moving towards Ash’s cheek––

"Uwaa!"

Extending her tongue she gently licked Ash’s cheek. Like a dragon who wants to be spoiled by its master.

"...... Ah?"

At this moment… Ash spotted something–– from Eco's mouth there comes a rose like smell.

"You...... Show me the inside!"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p004-005.jpg|thumb|'' Is this...... alright! '']]

"Is this......alright?" Eco says after she jumps down.

The usual Eco would ignore Ash’s order. However this morning, it is now like she is a different person. Her cheeks are getting redder and she stares at Ash’s face.

Being flirted with by her eyes… Ash saw Eco actually gently lift her miniskirt.

"... Huh?" Obviously Eco was confused about what 'inside' meant.

For the moment. Ash just couldn't understand what was happening right in front of him.

"You...!"

Ash almost falls backwards.

The thing clinging to Eco’s pure white skin almost caused his awareness to be swept away. That underwear, embellished with lots of lace, was designed for adults!

Suddenly he came back to his senses… Ash obstinately holds Eco’s hands.

"What are you doing you fool! I'm not talking about the skirt. It's what's inside your mouth!"

"Umm... I know..."

Eco with a flushed face opens her mouth halfway.

Behind her pearl white teeth, a pink tongue can be seen.

"So this stuff is the culprit!"

On Eco’s tongue was a piece of round candy.

A strong Ansal smell went into his nostrils.

Even though Ansals are harmless to humans, it brings a strong intoxicating effect to the dragons. Like drinking alcohol is for humans… Ansal’s smell brings pleasure to dragons.

The problem is that Eco is only a young dragon. Even with only a small amount of Ansal the result it brings is hard to predict.

"Come on. Quickly spit it out!"

"Nn....”

Eco exhaled a mouthful of heat, and firmly grasped Ash’s tie.

Don’t take Eco as just a petite girl as her strength is still like a dragon.

Ash, unable to do anything, can only let her pull him–– Eco, with Ash immobilised, mouth half-opened with her lips...

At the same time, Eco’s tongue breaks past the barrier.

"...!"

The two sticky and slippery tongues tangled.

The unimaginable shock makes Ash’s mind go blank and is transfixed in place.

"Tee hee..."

During that time of contact, the candy has rolled into Ash’s mouth.

The mouth-fed candy has melted into half of its original volume, Eco’s body temperature still remains on the candy.

Ash was entirely entranced.

"You… Just now..."

His face is hot as if flame is going to burst out from it.

At the start Ash was concentrating too much on the mouth-fed candy. That is why only until now, Ash found their lips were sticking tightly together. Eco then slowly averted her face, revealing a devil like smile.

According to that… Wasn't that his and Eco’s first kiss?

"Nn....”

Suddenly, like a puppet whose string was broken, Eco fell limp.

She buried her face in Ash’s arms and fell into a deep sleep. Seems like the drunken Eco has finally fallen asleep.

"Really... She only knows how to give people headaches."

Just as Ash breathed a sigh of relief–– A new voice is heard...

"..... From the position of between a human and a dragon, your behaviour just does not sound healthy."

"Uwaaa!"

Hearing a surprisingly calm voice, Ash was shocked.

''- Glup!''

The candy in his mouth is accidentally swallowed.

"....Rebecca! Since when have you been here?"

Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest, as she stood in the doorway. Her face is wearing a snappish smile.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p169.jpg|thumb|Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest, as she stood in the doorway. Her face is wearing a snappish smile.]]

"Do you even need to ask? Of course… When Eco ran out of the room."

"Isn’t it that you were here from the beginning to end? Why did you stand on the side-lines and not come to my aid!"

"Well that scene was very exciting! Oh, Ash, by the way, that underwear Eco is wearing belongs to me."

"Yikes...!"

After hearing that, Ash cannot help but think about Eco’s exposed underwear...

Those laces flooded his whole mind, the material should be silk, right? He remembers the top has a unique gloss. It turns out that Rebecca usually wears those kind of underwear–– After getting lost in his imagination Ash returns to his senses.

"Hey! That's not the point! I would like to know why Eco’s mouth was stuffed with that candy."

"Ahh. You mean that? That is my self-prepared, personal snack. When she saw me licking it on my palm, Eco came and begged for one. When I saw her eager face… How could I heartlessly refuse? "

"Rebecca, even when you knew the Ansal herb will have a negative effect on Eco, why did you continue to let her eat it?"

"Huu? ... I do not understand what you mean by that."

Rebecca exposed a playful smile and hid inside her room.

===Part 2===
Rebecca looked at the faces of all those who were present.

"Then let the meeting begin. Silvia will not be present for today’s meeting... So there are only three people left?"

She was correct. Right now. The ones who are sitting around the table are Rebecca, Max and Ash, the trio. By the way… Eco is lying on the couch.

The Vice President and the Secretary don't seem like they intend to attend this morning either.

"Right... Doesn’t it feel a little lonely?”

After Ash stated this Rebecca looked at him ridiculously.

"Any problem with it Ash? Are you so lonely when Silvia is not here? Is Rebecca onee-san not enough to satisfy you?"

"How could I dare to think so?!!"

Ash was too nervous to know what to do next. Max, right beside him, was also shocked but he interrupts:

"President. We don't have the time. Please don't tease Ash anymore and quickly begin the meeting."

"Hmm. You’re right. Every time I see Ash… I just want to make fun of him."

Rebecca, with a bitter smile, returns back to the topic.

"As you have heard, Princess Veronica's condolence trip is going to be held this afternoon. Actually... We must represent the academy’s students by accompanying the Princess."

Ash senses something bad.

"The people who are going to accompany the Princess must be Max, Ash, Eco and I. This is Princess Veronica’s orders. We do not have the right to refuse."

Just like what he sensed… His bad feeling was correct.

"Princess Veronica has many enemies. If someone wants to assassinate the Princess they certainly will not miss this great opportunity. Even though there are the seven escorts, who are in charge of the security, we still should not neglect precautionary measures. We, as mere Dragner's, must also be mentally prepared to be able to protect the Princess when there is danger."

"Please. May I ask ..."

Ash timidly raised his hand.

"Is there a problem Ash?"

“Rebecca-san. You're not a 'mere' but a dignified Ark-Dragner. Max, also, is an outstanding Dragner but I'm just a humble breeder.”

"What nonsense are you talking about? Didn’t you also have the famous title 'Silver Knight'?"

"... That's not the kind of title I want. Even if you give it to me for free."

"But I think that it's suitable for you. Back to the topic... The next thing is the main point."

After changing the topic… Rebecca showed a serious expression and passed the information in her hands to Ash and Max.

That is commonly known as a 'Wanted Poster'.

The entire sheet of paper is full of the details of the criminal’s characteristics and looks.

The reward offered actually reaches up to one million Eccles<ref>The currency in this story. From a town in UK.</ref>. Compared to a normal reward this amount is excessively large.

"We received some information from a certain party that 'Avdocha the Convicted' has infiltrated Ansarivan. Everyone please be very careful."

===Part 3===
The Ansarivan revival operations are well underway. The noise, hustle and bustle of construction and repairs sounded off in St Durham’s Square one after another;

The sound of the roaring man supervisor.

The sturdy frame operator’s loud cry.

The knocking sounds of the hammers.

The Necromancia’s attack had happened a full two weeks ago.

The Square had been razed to ruins, and yet today the revival operation was going on smoothly.

Magicship Silvanus landed slowly from above the square.

Right after she safely alighted from the magicship… Veronica immediately, with a loud voice, announced to the public:

"Dear countrymen! Thank you for your hard work!"

On recognizing the heroic Veronica… The scene is suddenly full of cheers.

"Wow. It's the Princess Veronica Her Royal Highness!"

"To even think that Her Royal Highness will actually come to a place like this..."

"That armour really looks valiant!"

Every worker stops doing their work as they are all moved and full of tears. However, Veronica just stared at them fiercely and...

"Who allowed you to rest?! Why are you bothering with my existence. Immediately continue with your work!"

At Veronica's loud voice, even the earth would shake! Furthermore, the Asias that were brought to the construction site were also shivering.

"Yes. Princess!"

Even though all the workers are burly, self-confident and brawny, they were all now feeling particularly vulnerable and hurried to resume their own work.

The sense was more like a strict supervisor who came rather than a condolence visit. Ash, standing beside Veronica, cannot help but laugh bitterly.

Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco, the four of them followed along with the arrangements made in the meeting this early morning. They are accompanying Veronica as the student representatives.

"Hmm... There is something strange."

Eco from the start is looking around aimlessly.

Did she find out something unusual using her dragon’s intuition? If it is so, the situation they are in will be a serious one, it is most likely an enemy of Veronica.

"Eco? Is there anything suspicious?"

Ash, with a nervous voice, asks Eco but she then revealed an extremely unhappy expression.

"The crepe stall is gone."

"... Hu?"

"I said, I can’t find the stall selling crepes!"

Ash is dumbstruck. What Eco likes to eat most is none-other than the crepes sold in the stall selling crepes in St Durham Square.

"You tell me... What Crepe seller will do business in this construction site?"

"Wuhu<ref>Whining sound.</ref>...... My crepes..."

Eco is so disappointed that she showed a dejected expression and there are tears whirling in her eyes.

"Really.. I can’t stand you any longer. The owner must have moved his stall to some other part of the streets. Later we will look for it together… Alright?"

"Really?"

Once she had heard this, Eco immediately smiled dazzlingly.

"...!"

Her smile is like a full blooming rose of which Ash cannot help but stare at deeply.

"Something wrong?" Eco asked when noticing Ash's stare.

Right after Eco confusedly asked… Only then did Ash come back to his senses and, with an pumped up attitude, he cleared his throat.

"Ahem. No. Nothing......"

In short. His bribery has been successful and Eco will, temporarily, quiet down. After all, he is now playing the role of Veronica’s guard with a heavy responsibility. Just in case this job was messed up by Eco, it would be hard for him to make sure that his head stays on his neck. Using crepes in exchange for the safety of his head… This price is nothing.

"Hmm. Using the strength of an Asia? A breeder who chooses to be a civil engineer is really rare."

"Y- Yes. I’m just lucky!"

At the same time as Ash is trying to keep Eco calmed down, Veronica’s condolence trip is smoothly being carried out.

Apart from the square, the surrounding buildings have also been damaged by the Necromancia. Which is why there are many carpenters are working there right now.

The carpenter Veronica is talking to seems to be a breeder and at the side an Asia can be seen pulling a trolley.

The fierce looking carpenter, due to excessive fear when facing Veronica, looked very nervous. Somehow, this scene is really amusing.

Looking at that the kind of laid-back scene Ash suddenly remembered the name that Rebecca brought up at the morning meeting.

--‘Avdocha the Convicted'

According to the report; She has the blood of a Tantalos. From a young age she has been doing guerrilla activities in the mountains. Later on she spread out from the mountains and was involved in terrorist attacks across the continent. She is very famous for her anti-establishment activity.

But five years ago, in the capital City of Fontaine, after Veronica’s assassination ended in failure… She was never seen again.

Some reports stated that such an activist is likely to stage a comeback for Veronica. Of course. The credibility of those reports are yet to be verified but still they must be prepared for the worst.

Ash gathered his nerve and whispered in Eco’s ears.

"Hey, Eco."

"... What’s the problem?"

"In case that I ran into a dangerous situation… Could you make me the Ark?"

"Well. Do you even want that kind of patch up work? I don’t mind, but there will be conditions-"

"Alright, alright, no matter how many crepes you want to eat... I’ll buy them for you."

''Except for the ansal flavor crepes...'' Ash, in his heart, silently added just as the nearby church bell rang.

That's the bell to indicate one o’clock in the afternoon.

"It is already this late...?"

Listening to the solemn bell, Silvia's face suddenly emerges in Ash's mind.

The building around St Durham Square has more than one church.

At this time Silvia should be complying with Veronica's command by offering her prayers in the St Valeria’s church for repentance.

Just when Ash takes Silvia’s feelings into account, and his mood was subsequently depressed, something happened.

Suddenly. ''-Boom!''

The sound of an explosion can be heard.

"W-What happened?"

Ash, surprised, looked toward the other end of the town square.

A thick black smoke is seen rising into the sky.

"It can’t be ...!"

The worst thought emerges in Ash mind.

The location where the black smoke emerges is St Valeria’s clock tower.

At the same time the explosion occurred, the public presently gathered in the square started screaming and the crowded site degraded into a mess.

After all, only a few days ago they were subjected to the Necromancia’s attack. Because of that, the present reaction of the town citizens are particularly extreme.

“-Princess please return to Silvanus.”

At this time, Glenn’s voice is heard.

"You’re right." Said Veronica, as she just calmly nodded without blinking an eye.

Ash who could not help but angrily interrupt said:

"Didn’t you see that church? Princess may be right inside there -"

However, Veronica coldly interrupts Ash:

"Don’t worry. From now on, I declare from this moment, Silvanus will become the strategic headquarters of this Operation. All of you, please return together."

Even when her biological sister may be caught up in the bombings, Veronica’s calm attitude really pissed people off.

===Part 4===
Silvia arrived at the St Valeria’s Church.

Under Veronica’s order she did not even bring her maid Cosette with her.

St Valeria’s statue was positioned on the altar.

St Valeria is one of the Twelve Apostles who served St Rosa Maria.

In the denomination of Rosa Maria's bible; St Valeria is not only portrayed as a woman full of compassion, but the protector of law.

In addition to Silvia, there are also many people who patronise the church. Most of them look like tourists though. So, those who are like Silvia––who have their own troubles––are of the minority.

“St Valeria. Please forgive my imprudent actions."

Silvia knelt in front of the altar and began to pray.

"St Valeria’s..."

At this time, someone else right beside Silvia is non-stop praying.

That voice feels very familiar.

"Please bless me so that I will get pregnant with 'Silver Knight'-sama’s child......"

"What are you praying for?!!"

"Kyaa!"

''THUND''. That person is so shocked by the other roaring voice that she screamed and fell backwards.

Silvia carefully looked at her face.

"...I knew that it was you, Jessica Valentine!"

Jessica stood up straight and stared back at Silvia.

"Oops. Look at you… You're not with the Princess? I thought you were to accompany Princess Veronica for her condolence trip today."

"Err... Sorry to tell you that I did not accompany her!"

"Y-You. What are you getting angry about?"

"Give me a break! That is not the point… How come you're here?"

Jessica obviously does not understand the reason Silvia is so angry.

"Well. I just wanted to beg St Valeria to bless me for an easy childbirth..."

"St Valeria is a protector of law! You have looked for the wrong Saint! "

"Hmm. I’m not like the rest, I won’t even bother such a small detail."

"What type of small detail is this?”

"Hm... If you keep on clinging to petty things like this… You will never be on equal footing with the Princess!"

Silvia, who feels her weakness is exposed, suddenly became furious.

“What did you say? Outsiders like you will never understand!"

“It's obvious at a glance–– There's too much difference in both of your open-mindedness."

"Ugh! How shameless are you... to talk about someone else pain!"

"Oops. It is your pain? Oh… As a royal you are far behind Veronica-sama. In your open-mindedness and as a Dragner your strength is far less than 'Silver Knight'-sama; I advise you to learn how to be a woman, you can take this noble’s daughter as an example."

"What did you say......?"

Silvia couldn’t bear with it any longer and her rational thinking snapped. She felt that what Jessica implied was as if she is trying to persuade her to hurriedly marry Glenn. Although logically it is impossible for Jessica to know of her arranged marriage with Glenn, but Silvia can’t care about the details so much.

"Ha! A mere Randall family’s servant even has the nerve to ask me to take her as an example? Even my toes are laughing!"

Jessica's face turns from red to white and back to red.

"Can it be Rebecca had told you...?"

"Don’t worry, under the president’s order, I will not spread this to the public. But, I would like to advise you to have a little restraint and stop falsifying your status."

Jessica lips tremble, she fiercely glared at Silvia.

"Then I’ll ask you... Can you can guarantee that your actions are never related to falsehood?"

"I-I..."

Silvia is also afraid that someone will see through her timid side, which is why she is always pretending to be strong. As one of the Lautreamont Knight Country’s Princess' she is trying her hardest to play the ideal image of ‘This is what a princess should do’.

Isn't such behaviour also taken as falsehood?

"Oops. Could it be that I hit the bull’s eye?"

"N-No. That's not it...”

Just while Silvia intends to voice a rebuttal-

''-Boom!''

The sound of explosion came from above.

The floor shook due of the impact, while dust, sand and stones fell from the ceiling.

Judging from this evidence… There seems to have been an explosion upstairs.

"Kyaa!"

Silvia is so frightened she inadvertently clings to Jessica.

Maybe Jessica is equally caught up in the panic and she wraps her arms around Silvia and hugged her hard.

Silvia and Jessica’s screams are like a trigger which make the other visitors cry.

It was only one explosion but compared to the original sacred atmosphere of the Church, it instantly turned into a living hell.

At this time… A condescending shadow was cast over the apalling scene.

"Who’s that person?"

Silvia's eyes widened.

Black hair, with gimmering eyes full of evil.

Wearing a native folk costume, with a high degree of exposure, an almost tanned coloured skin can be seen.

Like in a drama, the woman began to speak:

"‘Blame the sin, rather than the sinner!’ What a joke! The fragile mind of a human is the root of all evil, and all who are sinners will never escape death!"

''WHACK!'' The woman snapped a toss of the whip in her hand––

"I shall be called "Avdocha the Convicted’"!" <ref>In this sentence she speak in an high and mighty form. It is very hard to translate so the simple form will be I am 'Avdocha the Convicted’.</ref> The woman said in a high and mighty manner.

Silvia became dumbstruck.

She remembers that name.

"How come... this person is 'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Silvia knew about the existence of this anti-establishment activist. Long ago… She had also seen her 'wanted order' several times.

Her reward amount is up to one million Eccles.

However, the woman in front of her has the face of a child, a petite body, and a childlike appearance, which caused others to disbelieve she is a battle-hardened terrorist. She is totally different from the picture in the wanted poster.

But the woman with a calm expression looks at the visitor.

Even while her body looks petite, she is still able to look down from up high.

That is because she was standing on the back of a basilisk!

Under the sight of the big rolling eyes that only a basilisk has––

''"Eek...!"''

Both Silvia and Jessica trembled.

The extreme fear causes them to not release each other’s hands.

––––Basilisk!

Even though they bear a striking resemblance to lizards, their size is nowhere near that of a normal lizard. Although they are well known as close relatives of an Asia, judging from the body's apperance, there is not even a slightest hint that they have a Dragon's intellect.

After capturing it... To tame such monster and ride it like a horse, no matter what, it could never be done by an ordinary person.

So the only explanation is… The woman in front is none-other than 'Avdocha the Convicted’––

"From now on, you are all hostages! Just don’t act rashly and I will not take your life! On the other hand... If someone dares to fight back… Don’t blame me if we use you to feed him!"

Following Avdocha’s order, the basilisk made an earth-shattering roar.

===Part 5===
The atmosphere of the airship Silvanus’s navigation room was very tense.

The crew, led by the helmsman, are at their posts; They were ready to take off at any time.

"Huhu... It's hard even for me to tolerate this, Glenn."

Veronica who is smiling while sitting on the captain seat said.

"Yes. Veronica-sama."

Glenn seriously nodded in agreement.

Apart from the escort’s captain Glenn who is by Veronica’s side, the other six escorts are on their dragons responsible for the protection of Silvanus.

Under Veronica’s order Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco ––members of the student’s council–– also gathered in the navigation room.

"Hey.... Why can you be so calm? The church that Princess is in was attacked!"

Ash, unable to restrain his emotions, questioned.

Veronica, on the captain’s seat, comfortably cross her legs and teased:

"You're too inexperienced Ash. During the Necromancia’s attack, were your emotions this unstable? If it is so, then you were just lucky the last time–– You'd better give some deep thought about it or else you cannot guarantee even your own life."

"What did you say?"

"Veronica-sama!"

At this moment the communication sergeant, while looking back at Veronica, interrupts Ash.

"There is a signal from St Valeria’s Church!"

Beside the communication sergeant’s hand, the Bright-Dragon-Crystal next to the magic communicator is shining.

"Connect to it."

"Understood!"

The magic communicator continued to flash for a while then a projection appeared in mid-air.

"––!"

Ash gasped. Even though he knew that this is a type of oracle, he had never seen such method. The technology must have been imported from the Empire.

Although there is a lot of static noise, the scene shown on the screen looks like the interior of the St Valeria’s church–– St Valeria’s statue set on the altar statue proves this fact.

The only thing is, the screen didn’t show the hostages. Of course, that does not rule out that Silvia could have been abducted.... which made Ash anxiously clench his fists.

At this moment… The projection screen suddenly shows a woman's face.

『 "I shall be called 'Avdocha the Convicted’. Wait, since we are already familiar with each other, I don’t need to announce my name… Right Veronica?"<ref>This is also spoken in an high and mighty form.</ref>』 She again spoke with a haughty and powerful voice.

"You're right. So could you quickly tell me what your demand is?"

Veronica shows the calm demeanor of a royal family.

"She is...'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Ash's eyes widen and he turns speechless.

Seeing her childlike face Rebecca, Max and Eco seem to feel the same way as Ash. All of their faces looked stunned and skeptical.

Because comparing between her looks and the arrest warrant they received earlier… They are apparently two completely different characters.

The portrait in the arrest warrant looks like a 24-year-old she-leopard with a sharp look, which gave the feeling of a veteran guerrilla soldier......

『 "I’ll let you have a look at this first!"』

The screen suddenly focuses at another person’s body.

The altar of the Rosa Maria’s religion is magnificently decorated with its symbolic totem wing like crucifix. However, there is a person tied to the winged cross.

Ash and the others turn speechless and not just because of Avdocha’s fetishes.

"Jessica...?"

Rebecca, who knew her since childhood, muttered blankly.

She is not wrong, the one tied on the winged cross is––the president of the SKFC––Jessica Valentine, of all people. Evidently she seems to have inadvertently become a hostage.

"That’s t-too much!"

Ash's lips are trembling.

Jessica is actually only wearing her underwear.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p190.jpg|thumb|The humiliated Jessica was desperately struggling to hold back her tears.]]

Apart from her underwear and knee socks the rest of her clothing was mercilessly stripped away.

The humiliated Jessica was desperately struggling to hold back her tears.

Not only that, there are also squiggles on top her bare belly that reads:

''- The Head of Valkyrie!''

"That. Is that blood text...?"

"No. that does not look like blood. It should be something like lipstick.”

Rebecca swept away Ash’s worry.

"Hmm... To even use hostages as a meat shield to make me offer my head. She is really an insatiable woman." Veronica calmly remarks.

Even after witnessing Jessica’s inhumane treatment, Veronica is still so easy going.

At this time, the screen slowly moves downwards, and the altar is shown.

"...What is that?"

Ash frowns.

Around the altar, there are black objects that give the impression of a ''"machine"''. Although it is an extremely strange and rarely seen thing, they are filled with a dangerous atmosphere that can never be found coming from equipment within the church.

From the screen Avdocha’s voice is heard again:

『 "As you can see we have a bomb set up in the church. This is an Empire made mechanical bomb. Once detonated, the church will immediately be blown to pieces. Also, I am a person who has no patience. Every time the bell rings... I’ll kill a hostage."』

"What did you say...?!"

Ash excitedly clenches his fists.

She is threatening that every hour there will be someone who will lose their life.

Until the next time the bell rings… there is only around fifty minutes.

『 "Hehe... I can’t wait to see your head when it is off your neck Veronica."』

Once finished with these words the communication was terminated.

It seems that Avdocha stopped it herself.

"Your Highness. What should we do now?"

Rebecca asked, but a sneer is shown on Veronica’s mouth.

The coldness of her sneer, caused Ash’s hair to stand up straight.

"I’ll never compromise with terrorists. If we face an emergency situation we’ll use the main canon of Silvanus to blow up the whole church."

"What ..."

After hearing this emotionless declaration, Ash felt as if he is punched at the back of his head.

Even when she knew that Silvia may also be inside the church. But...

"You are really...!"

Ash finally understands the reason Veronica is given the title 'Ironblood Valkyrie'.

===Part 6===
---Moving backwards slightly in time---

Nearly a hundred worshipers were taken hostage along with Silvia. Of course, due to unexpected events, they are trembling endlessly while still trying to grasp the situation that they are in.

The terrorist’s mastermind is 'Avdocha the Convicted’.

There are nine soldiers surrounding them.

The nine soldiers give off the feeling that they are from the mountains and are large, muscular men. They are dressed in their folk costumes; With an eagle looking mask on their face they are equipped with the mountain people's usual whip and shamshir<ref>Half-moon shaped dagger.</ref> dagger and others. The nine men seem to be loyal to Avdocha. In contrast to their savage like looks, they accept orders just like any regular army soldiers.

Avdocha’s objective is to defeat Veronica. She probably wants to take advantage of the 100 hostages to achieve this goal.

''"is there nothing that we can do?"''

''As the Knight’s Royal Princess… What can I do?'' Just as Silvia was thinking this, her first thought is the intention to expose her identity as the princess.

"As long as I identify myself, we could ask them to release the hostages......"

It is not an exaggeration to have this idea, because she could use her own value as the princess.

''If she can use a person's freedom in exchange for the safety of the public… Isn't this a very good bargain?''

"I will never allow you to do this!"

Surprisingly, Jessica actually tries to stop Silvia. When she heard Silvia talking to herself, with a low voice, she advised her to give up on the idea.

"Once they know that you are Princess Veronica’s sister there’s no one who can guarantee your safety."

"The problem is... If I am the only person who will be sacrificed and these people can be saved––"

"Do not look down on others! I never had the intention to sell you out for my freedom! For I'm Jessica Valentine!"

At this time, Avdocha, who was originally busy giving orders to the men, suddenly turned around and look back at Silvia and Jessica.

"Well, well, well.... There is someone who has the leisure to whisper around even when they are in danger. You really have guts to be doing that."

She took the reins of the basilisk and moved closer to the two. The basilisk with its heavy steps gives off a pressuring feeling; Silvia is almost scared out of her wits.

However. Jessica is the opposite.

She stood up from the spot.

"I am Jessica Valentine!"

"So?"

"Don’t look at me like that. I'm a well-known noble! Out of respect for me… Can you promise that you would never harm the other hostages?"

The heroic act gave Silvia a hard hit.

In such a situation… She actually had the courage to claim herself as a ''noble''...!

Avdocha sitting on the basilisk’s back, her eyes narrowed into a crack.

“Noble? I've never heard of the Valentine house... Anyway. We appreciate your foolhardiness; I’ll now give you an important task! Arrest her!"

Two of Avdocha’s men came forward without a word and held Jessica from both sides. Without any explanation they dragged her to Avdocha.

Like a comforting thought Silvia imagines that there is nothing that needs to be worried about.

However what unfolded in front of all hostages was a tragic scene.

First, Jessica's clothes were torn and stripped off. Then, Avdocha personally took a lipstick and wrote on her belly '''The Head of Valkyrie!’'' 

Jessica from the start to the finish didn't moan once and not even a drop of tears flowed out from her eyes. She just gritted her teeth and bears all this, but it is not difficult to tell what she is experiencing.

Finally, Jessica was taken to the altar and tied to the cross.

"Jessica... I've misunderstood you. In fact. You are a lot nobler than a true noble."

''-Compared to me. I-I’m...... Actually weak and incompetent.''

She could use her identity as a Dragner and fight back...... It is not that Silvia doesn't have this idea; the problem is, as long there are hostages, there is no way to summon Lancelot while in the church.

This space in the church is too small for Lancelot to use its skills.

''"Damn... Why am I... this useless?!"''

Apart from sitting down together timidly with the other hostages, in addition to unable to do anything, Silvia deeply hated herself.

===Part 7===
''"'Avdocha the Convict'? How can this be possible ...!"'' Anya murmured.

Anya, who is disguised as a flower girl, is mixed amidst about a hundred hostages inside the church.

In order to prevent her men, who deeply hated Veronica, from taking any actions Anya also infiltrated Ansrivan. She only went to the St Valeria’s Church to gather information but was unfortunately drawn into Avdocha’s terrorist act.

'Avdocha the Convict' is a legend in the mountains. Since she was lost in a military operation and there were no more rumors about her anymore. So many thought that she had died...

Anya since her childhood had already heard her name and looked up to her. Avdocha had left her village with numerous heroic legends.

Of course, this is the first time Anya saw her.

She had only seen her portrait in the wanted poster in the past at best.

The beauty on the wanted poster is a perfect match with the title 'Avdocha the Convicted'.

The record breaking reward amount, one million Eccles, is also a stunner.

Anycase, the person herself is not the same.

''-I actually didn’t expect that she had such a petite body... Logically speaking… Her actual age should be around the twenties.'' Anya thought to herself.

That aggressive basilisk who was tamed and obeyed her, is the best evidence that she is likely Avdocha. Because in Avdocha’s heroic legend, the basilisk didn’t just play a small role.

However, from Anya’s point of view, there are too many things that don’t fit.

''- Such a terrorist act... is nothing but foolhardy.''

In this world… There are plenty of rebels who recklessly sacrifice their own lives. The Tantalos tribe, since a long time ago, seems to be popular with suicide attackers.

However, judging from the rumors spread on many parts of the mountains, at the very least Avdocha is not that kind of reckless person.

She not only led successful fights one after another, in the end she always survived–– Because of this, Avdocha had become a legend.

Even after the ''‘killed in action’'' message was well known, people still think that ''"maybe she is still alive somewhere in the world"''. That is the part that makes Avdocha so scary and also adds some style to her legend.

Against such legendary exploits, it is impossible for her to do such a foolhardy act as this......

Anya feels that instead of thinking about these problems she should worry about her own safety.

''––Yes... In fact, what's she going to do next?''

Since Avdocha had already set the time limit, they will die if they just sit still.

Don’t forget each time the bell rings… One of the hostages will be killed...

How about if she revealed that she is also from the Tantalos tribe–– Even she did think that… Anya quickly waved off this idea.

She is a veteran.

Such people will not take Anya in as her companion just because of the same skin colour. To act rashly will probably end up with a harsh lesson like that of Jessica Valentine.

Although under Milgauss' help, the mountainous people's dispute was finally able to calm down, but there were a lot of Tantalos family who gave up their home and choose to come out from the mountains. That trend resulted in many people, who were not mountain emigrents, that had the same tanned skin colour as Anya's increasing.

Moreover. There are rumors:

Princess Veronica established a force consisting of foreigners. She also intends to use a different army system for them than from the Knight's army. They are also for other uses.

Also, there seems to be many mountain people who are included in the group.

''––I shouldn’t act rashly or else I’ll be suspected as a soldier from the foreign force......''

Even though Anya is disguised as a flower girl… But that woman is still Avdocha. Perhaps she may recognize that Anya had once undertaken military training at a glance.

''––If that's so… Then the smart move is to temporarily blend in with the hostages and see what’s going to happen next.''

After concluding all that, Anya is hugging her knees with her hands and her head is buried in between them. This way she will not need to face Avdocha directly.

If she can just avoid doing any unsightly behaviour, no matter how many times the bell sounded, Anya will never be so unlucky and be killed? After all, the number of hostages are as many as 100 people......

But god is never gonna let her get off so easily.<ref>This is a proverb.</ref> Beside Anya there was a mother shaking while holding her baby. Maybe the baby sensed her mother’s anxiety, the look on it's face was as if it's going into burst into tears anytime.

''- Please be good...!''

Anya immediately pulls her cheeks and began to coax the baby.

"Chaa...♪"

It is probably that her act is funny but fortunately the baby gave a happy grin.

She silently felt relieved even within her heart, but at the same time she starts to hate herself.

''- What am I actually doing...?''

===Part 8===
Rebecca suddenly speaks to Veronica.

"Are you going to send someone to negotiate?"

Veronica seems like she is interested in this proposal, and looks to Rebecca.

Even when the person she is speaking to is Veronica, Rebecca is still without fear, and gracefully stated her views:

"We must not use the main cannon of the Silvanus until the very end. I think we should make this our trump card and only use it when we are left with no other choice."

"Alright, we’ll follow to according what you had said."

"Thank you, Your Highness."

"The question is who will become the negotiator?"

Rebecca with a confident smile responded to Veronica.

"Public order of Ansarivan, since ancient times, is maintained by the Student Council, so I think we should send someone from the council. If it's just a regular student I think they'll let their guard down."

Hearing Rebecca's rhetoric, Ash feels anxious.

Since Silvia was taken as hostage, and the vice president and secretary are nowhere in sight as usual, the candidates left behind are the trio of Rebecca, Max, and Ash.

Of course, everyone knows that Rebecca is the most suitable person for this task, but -

"I recommend Ash Blake as negotiator."

Rebecca has made a very surprising recommendation.

"Huh?"

Ash suspects he'd heard it wrongly.

"That... Rebecca-san, you're serious about it?"

Just when Ash is at loss, Eco interrupted Rebecca.

"Are you kidding? Do you want to let this guy go alone into such dangerous place?"

Facing Eco's fury, Rebecca replies her with a playful smile.

"Could it be that you are worried about Ash?"

Eco suddenly blushed.

"T-Th-That… How is that possible? What I’m protesting about is that you don’t have the rights to order my meat slave!"

Once those words were blurted out… The atmosphere in the navigation room immediately froze.

Even those officers who are in charge of the steering and the communication secretly peeped at Ash as if he is a suspicious person.

"Wait! Don’t talk any nonsense that’ll make people misunderstand!"

The ‘meat slave’ that Eco means is someone who will present their own flesh to their owners when they are hungry. But, by no means, were those officers imagining that kind of meaning.

But the situation right now did not allow Ash to explain himself just because everyone threw him a suspicious glance.

Finally, Veronica broke the silence.

"Well... I didn’t think that you are actually Eco’s ‘meat slave‘. I admire you have some backbone."

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding!"

Veronica looked at Ash who is desperately denying.

"Is there anything to be shy about? Isn't it that ‘meat slaves‘ are those who give their own flesh for their lord when they are aware that their lord is at the risk of starvation?"

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding... Huh?!"

Ash is stunned.

"You are really strange. If there are any other meanings… Why don’t you speak it out loud?"

Veronica is with a serious expression. As if she only knew this meaning.

Eco and Veronica's thinking seems to have something in common.

"Yes, you're right! That’s what Eco’s ‘meat slave‘ means!"

After Ash grasps the opportunity to explain… The atmosphere of the navigation room finally calms down. Finally, Ash escaped from those sharp glares and he let out a sigh of relief, but the most fundamental problem is not yet solved.

"In short, without my permission, you'll never be going to send him there!"

Eco, who is stubborn, refused to back down.

Similarly, like her, Rebecca looks like she isn't in a hurry either.

"Logically speaking, it's supposed to be my duty as president to go there––“

"Then you just only need to go to solve this problem!"

"The problem is that I cannot go because the terrorists should know that Rebecca Randall is an Ark-Dragner. If I was chosen as a negotiator it's likely that I’ll be ignored."

What Rebecca said is not unreasonable. If Ash was with the terrorists he’d also not greet Rebecca with open arms.

"So Ash, do you think that you can do it? There is a time limit, but you still have an equal strength as an Ark-Dragner. Nevertheless. You are also the ‘Silver Knight’."

"Don’t joke around! This burden is really too heavy for me!! No matter what… I’m just an ordinary student!"

"That’s right. It can be presumed that the other party also sees you as an ordinary student. So this is the advantage."

"The problem is..."

"Don’t be afraid. Even if it is dangerous, Eco will defend you. Am I right, Eco?"

"Don’t you just simply speak in place of others!"

"Oh! So you mean to say that you cannot protect Ash? Is the Ark you made so fragile?"

"I, I didn’t say that! Don’t you dare look down on my Ark!"

"Then, can you protect Ash?"

"Of course!"

Eco confidently lifted her chest.

Ash can only smile.

Rebecca’s technique is really amazing. He doesn't know whether it is fortunate or unfortunate, but Eco did not even notice that she had fallen into Rebecca’s trap.

“Don’t worry, Ash. Even when is Eco protecting you, I will not be bold enough to send you into the enemies’ den alone."

Rebecca, suddenly with a gentle smile, stretched out her hands and gently rests them on Ash’s shoulders.

"Huh?"

The distance between the two is so close that they can sense each other's breath. Even when it is an emergency situation, Ash still could not help but blush. A fragrant aroma could be smelled.

"I will wait for an opportunity to attack the church. It is just that I’ll not be doing the same thing as you. With the Ark, it's child’s play to break into the church through the foundation."

"Foundation?"

Ash at that time doesn’t understand what she means.

"So. This is it!"

However. He then realised Rebecca's intentions.

The first thing was to stall for time by sending Ash into the church acting as a negotiator.

Rebecca, on the other hand, is using the tunnels below to gain access to the church.

Next they’ll use the oracle to blast through the foundation and surprise Avdocha.

"President! Please let me participate in your plan!"

Max shouted.

When the Necromancia attacked the city Max was good for nothing and became a burden. He probably would like to take this opportunity to clear his name.

Rebecca immediately rejected.

"Sorry Max. This time you won’t come in handy."

"... What?!"

Max, burnt out like a candle in the wind, stood motionless.

Ash understands Rebecca’s intentions; he knew she did not mean to ill treat him.

Max, who still remains in the stage of a Dragner, can only show his true colours when he is riding his dragon he. However this battle must be done in small scale and the large body of the dragon will only be in the way.

The Ark-Dragner who can use the oracle specially for the Ark is very suitable for this kind of combat.

Rebecca was right, despite the time constraints, Ash has that ability.

Thanks to Eco’s power Ash can give it a try.

Since he has this ability, what should he do to fulfill his responsibility -

Ash made up his mind.

"I’ll go. After all… Princess is waiting for us to save her."

"Well then. That's more like it." Rebecca said with a smile of appreciation.

She then turned back to face Veronica.

"Do you think this strategy is practical, Your Highness?"

Veronica on the captain’s seat shaking her other leg, gave a satisfied smile.

"Very well, Rebecca. We will make use of your combat strategy, but I do not want to let talented people like you to go on an adventure alone, I’ll let Glenn go with you."

"Captain Glenn’s combat power is what I sought for." Rebecca agreed immediately.

But Glenn opposed it.

"Veronica-sama, I’m the escort’s captain, is it really appropriate for me not to be beside you -"

"What are you talking about? Glenn?"

Veronica whispers in Glenn’s ear.

''She is most probably asking him to personally rescue Silvia who is bound to be married to him-'' Ash thought.

Like a confirmation, to Ash’s prediction, Glenn for a moment exposed an unpleasant expression.

Glenn, ever since he came to Ansrivan, has always maintained expression #1. So such changes must be really rare.

Anyway, Glenn after all is a loyal servant to the king.

"...Yes. Princess."

After he respectfully bowed… His normal poker face returned.

Ash of course does not agree with that absurd marriage but now is not the time to protest.

"Hey, Eco, can we make a deal?"

"Why?"

Ash stood next to Eco and quietly whispered.

Since the other party possessed Empire made bombs then countermeasures must be prepared in advance.

"...Can you do it Eco?"

Just as Ash expected, after listening to his combat strategy, Eco is puzzled.

"Huh? How do I know whether I can do it or not?"

"No. You can do it."

Ash with confidence smile at Eco.

"...?"

Eco simply did not expect that Ash would smile at this time and she fell into a confused silence.

"Remember the last time we fought the Necromancia? At least this opponent is a human. No matter what, it won’t be as difficult as last time."

"Well... perhaps it is like that this time."

"I’ll be looking forward to your performance. Eco."

Then, Ash placed his hand lightly on Eco’s shoulder.

"I-I know. But I’ve a condition––

“Crepes right? After everything is dealt with… I’ll bring you back to look for the stall."

Eco slightly lift her neck and looked up at Ash.

"...You still remember?"

"Of course I remember. Because you're my Pal."

''"W- Why does Ash even have this type of aura around him...!"''

Even when Eco angrily turned her face to the side… Her ears were still all red.

===Part 9===
After alighting from Silvanus Ash passed through the evacuated St Durham Square and moved towards St Valeria’s Church.

On the way there, Ash suddenly remembers the tie clip.

This was given to him by the communication officer before departing.

Inside The tie clip, even though it looks ordinary, is a small piece of Bright-Dragon-Crystal and it will send any sound it received back to the Silvanus' navigation room.

To put it bluntly. It's an ultra-micro magic communication tool.

Only then Ash realised that this type of machinery existed in this world.

Who would think that he would actually take on such a chore? Ash cannot help but secretly cry.

But Rebecca’s analysis is very reasonable; He cannot deny that he is most suitable person to play this role. After all Ash as a student, is unknown to the public but at the same time he has the same combat ability as an Ark-Dragner.

''"Forget it. Anyway. Boats eventually straighten when they reach the docks."''<ref>It means just to 'follow the flow'.</ref>

After he finished thinking, he thrust his hands into the pockets of his pants.

He maintained his speed and continued to walked forward.

Rebecca and Glenn should now have departed towards the church through the underground tunnels.

Just when Ash is 20 meters from the main entrance of the church––

''-Shoo!''

Beside his ears, a whizzing sharp sound is heard and the stone on the ground is followed by a "''pop''!" strange sound.

"...?"

Only after a full few seconds does Ash realised that someone was shooting at him!

''"Are they the ones who fired the shot...!"''

At the second floor church window the are two snipers. They were both armed with weapons that he suspected to be Empire-made sniper rifles.

''Is Avdocha working with the Empire’s army? Or, are they using what they recover from their fights with the Empire...?''

Let's put the origin of the weapons aside; the shooting just now is clearly a warning. If the sniper had the intention to kill, that shot probably would have killed Ash.

After realizing he is one step away from death, Ash gave a cold sweat. But at this time he cannot retreat.

Because Silvia is a hostage being held inside the church––

''"Do not be afraid...Eco is protecting me."''

After Ash pumped himself up, he shouted toward the sniper:

"I’m Ash Blake and I’m here on behalf of the Student Council! Please let me in to negotiate with you!"

Even Ash does not think he sounds convincing but the ‘Student Council’ in this academy town holds a great position.

Since Avdocha is one of the leading activists she should know about this background knowledge.

"......"

They didn’t respond. However. One of the snipers disappeared from the window. From a positive perspective Ash hopes that they are afraid of the student council.

''"Well... How are they going to make their move?"''

Ash, hands in his pocket, patiently waited for the outcome.

After a few minutes a heavy sound is heard–– "''Crack''..." The door slowly opened.

===Part 10===
Once he passed through the door, Ash was soon surrounded by three masked soldiers.

After checking his items he is led to the altar.

Fortunately. The soldiers didn't notice the tie clip and Ash is secretly relieved.

"Oh... So, kid, you're the negotiator?"

In front of the altar Avdocha, riding on the back of the basilisk, looked down at Ash.

Although Avdocha called him a kid… Doesn’t she think that her appearance looks a lot more childish? But, at this time, Ash shouldn’t correct her.

"I am the student council representative for General Affairs. Ash Blake."

While declaring his name, at the same time, Ash quietly observed the entire scene.

A half-naked Jessica was still tied to the altar’s wing cross.

Because she is not moving Ash thinks that she is dead. However. With a closer look there is still a sign of breathing in her chest. It seems that she just lost consciousness.

The red text written on her belly is more shocking than what is seen through the screen.

On the other hand… The hostages lined along the side walls were quiet.

Ash found Silvia in a corner, thanks to the eye-catching academy uniform, Ash is able to find her.

"...!"

With a stunned look Silvia stares at the Ash.

Ash nodded slightly for Silvia to be at ease and moves his sight back to Avdocha.

"General affairs? It seems that I’m looked down upon."

"Even if our president personally came to negotiate… would you even let her in? You should already know that our president is an Ark-Dragner?"

Avdocha laughed.

“Hehe... You talk too much. Say… What you want to negotiate about? Our request is only a simple one; It's Veronica’s head. As long as you obediently hand over her head I’ll immediately release all the hostages. If not we will blow up the church. Things are just that simple. Are they not?"

"You really think we will accept such a request? She is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie'. If desperate enough that person would not hesitate to use the main cannon of Silvanus to blow this church, together with all the hostages, into ashes."

Once Ash blurted that out the hostages immediately began to become restless.

"What did you say?"

"Does Veronica-sama intend to do nothing about us...!"

"Disregard for human life!"

Avdocha cold sight shot through the panicked hostages.

"Silence!" With a loud sound enough to shake the earth.

Everyone kept quiet instantly.

"Is the purpose of this trip is to make the hostages panic? I’ve never seen such a foolish negotiator."

"I was just declaring the truth. If you continue to delay… you will all lose your lives in vain!"

"Do you think this threat will be effective?"

"I don't think so. I've heard a lot about what you have done... That’s why I do not understand why would you do such things?"

Avdocha did not directly answer the questions. She just change the subject.

"So be it... I’ll tell you about my past."

"What did you say?"

The unexpectedly development cause Ash to be caught unprepared.

"In fact. We have been looking for my sister that has disappeared for quite a long time."

"Sister?"

"Yeah, but, I still do not know whether she is alive or not. It's because of the mountain disputes that caused our separation."

Is she trying to arouse the sympathy of the people? Or that she has some other purposes?

"... What happened after that?"

Ash tried to maintain a sound-calm-look while silently urging her to continue.

"What I want to say is this. Talking about this... I heard that Veronica has three sisters. I would like to let her feel the pain of being separated from her sisters."

Ash feels that he has goosebumps.

''Damn. This situation is very bad.''

Ash finally understands why Avdocha deliberately brought up the sister topic.

Because she wanted Veronica to also taste the same bitter feeling.

Avdocha is not likely to let Silvia off litely once she is exposed.

Unfortunately, there are no signs that Rebecca and Glenn are about to break into the church.

''- Are you alright Eco...?''

With a desperate feeling Ash focus his attention on his left arm’s ‘Seikoku’.

Through this 'Seikoku' Eco and Ash are able to communicate.

''- Eco... Can you hear me?''

Eco does not respond.

===Part 11===
--- Dragon Workshop ---

This is but a space used by dragons to create their works. Even though Eco only has some knowledge about this space there is no doubt that this place is different from the real world.

If the real world is defined as the physical world, then this can be compared to the spiritual world. Since they are not bound to the body anymore they can imagine freely. With some effort, flying to the sky is not a problem-

Once Ash entered the church, Eco sent her spirit to the Dragon Workshop. Her true body is protected in Silvanus's navigation room so she does not need to worry about the safety of her body.

The floor is paved with checkerboard like white and black square tiles.

On the wall, there are many works left behind by her ancestors and were hanging there without any order. Just like a museum of black and white.

"Welcome to the Dragon Workshop."

As usual. The woman called Navi comes forward to meet Eco.

"You again..."

Eco with a bored look stared at Navi.

Frankly. Eco is not good at dealing with her.

Today Navi is wearing a dark red dress and sitting on an antique chair.

When I grow up. Will I become like her? Eco hated to look at her. Even her horns are different from Eco's as both of them are sharp and pointed.

"Isn't this only the second time we've met? How could that slow pace, of the two of us meeting, make you feel tired?"

"Hmph! I don't even want to come to this place!"

Eco impatiently talks back to Navi’s teasing.

''Sure enough. I have this headache whenever I meet this woman.'' Eco fretted.

"Do you not have even a little desire to create? As I have told you; Dragons are born craftsman. Do you really not want to help him––Ash Blake––create an original Ark? "

Eco’s cheeks suddenly felt hot.

"D-Don’t joke around, why would I want to help that guy...!"

"Well… I think he is a very great guy! Since 'every dragon would surrender to him' he is also very mysterious. You too… Quickly grow into your 'true from' and let him ride on you...Then you may be addicted to that feeling."

''“'True From'?”''

Eco suddenly feel uneasy.

"What do you mean? In other words… My current form... Is just a deception? In the end… Why was I born in the human form?"

A flirtatious smile emerged on Navi’s face.

"Because the human form is also the real you."

"...?"

"But you are eventually a dragon and also Ash Blake’s Pal. I hope that you can soon be'' 'awakened' ''."

"Weird. Somehow every time you talk… I feel a fire emerging in my belly!"

"Hehe... Sorry. I seem to like to tease you. Back to the topic. You are here in order to complete your mission… Are you not?"

"Hmm... Yeah. That guy asked me to prepare a suitable Ark against the Empire-made bomb."

"He intends to use the power of magic against machinery? Well… Here we go."

Although she is very unhappy with Navi’s long-winded behaviour… Conditions do not allow her to continue to waste her time in useless dialogue. So Eco closed her eyes and summoned the large number of designs left behind by her ancestors.

The total number of these designs is well over a thousand.

What Eco can do now, is to extract the parts which are suitable for Ash and re-build it into a new Ark suitable to go against the Empire-made bomb.

Although it is only an 'extract and re-build' it will still consume a huge amount of magic.

It will cause a huge burden on the young dragon Eco.

Even so. For Ash, who is in the enemy’s den, and also for her favorite crepes, Eco can only try… -

===Part 12===
Anya, who was mixed into the crowd, noticed something uniqe and her eyes widened while her thoughts went rambling on.

''- That guy-!''

''The ‘Silver Knight’ who successfully controlled the Necromancia-''

''The one who has potential to become Milgauss' enemy in the future-''

''This guy not only came into the church as a negotiator but he also revealed his own name.''

''"The student’s Council’s representative for General Affairs-Ash Blake is it...? I’ll remember your name."''

Even when out of nowhere she was caught in Avdocha’s terrorist act, which caused her to fall into despair, but it was also a blessing in disguise because now she knew Ash’s name without putting in any effort.

The only thing is, she has to leave this church alive, otherwise there is no meaning behind this. Not only each time the bell rings, they will kill a hostage… Veronica is also outside aiming the Silvanus' main cannon here.

So the first task is to get out of this dangerous place alive.

Once any event that is not expected by Avdocha happens it's simple for her to escape.

In order to grasp this opportunity she must make herself ready......

"Chaa... ♪"

The thing is… Anya is now carrying a baby.

––She's the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’. If desperate enough she wouldn't hesitate to use the Silvanus' main cannon and turn this whole church together with the hostages into ashes.

After hearing Ash’s announcement the mother, now laying beside her, was so scared that she lost consciousness.

Fortunately Anya had good reflexes and she managed to grab the baby, and narrowly avoided the disaster of the baby bursting into tears. The problem now is that the situation is still at a critical point.

''"What can I do......"''

After Anya muttered with a sigh her chest she suddenly felt numb and almost straightened her body.

It turned out that the baby stretched its arms to reach out and touch Anya's breast.

''––M-My breast. Even Milgauss-sama had never touched them before!''

The baby is probably hungry and wants to drink milk. Anya naturally cannot produce any milk, and the baby's mother is still unconscious.

''- What is your mom doing! How could this be possible just because she lived in the peaceful days for too long!''

At the same time Anya is cursing in the bottom of her heart, the baby starts to fondle her breast.

All of a sudden it squeezes it with its hands, and the next moment it rubs them with its face.

Compare to its mother’s breasts Anya’s are a lot smaller. Maybe the baby is troubled with the difference between the two?

Finally, through the clothing, the baby actually bites Anya’s nipples.

"...... Ah!"

Under the strange sensation… Anya came out with a weird noise.

This voice causes her to blush with shame.

"Don’t you dare ask for too much!"

Anya quietly scolded it and forces the baby away from her chest.

Unexpectedly, the baby turns sour...

"Woo Woo ... ''hick…'' ... Waaaaaa!"

It suddenly burst into tears.

Anya looks ashen, even when she tries to please the baby, but it is a complete failure. She can’t be blamed for this because she has never taken care of a child

''- Damn...... if Avdocha......''

However, in only five seconds, Anya’s worries have become reality.

"So noisy...... Can’t a mother of the Knight country discipline her child properly?"

Anya, still hidden in the crowd, feels her whole body stiffening instantly.

"Since it's too noisy… why don’t you release the women and children?"

The boy named Ash steps forward to help, but Avdocha just laughed him off.

"How can I? Moreover. The first bell is going to ring soon. I have been always punctual; so let’s just choose the baby as a sacrifice."

"Are you kidding? Are you even human? It is just an innocent baby!"

"Do you think there is time to care about the age of every opponent on the battlefield? If you are careless, it isn't surprising, there will be a day that you will be killed by a five year old kid!"

"Even if it is like that––”

As if to prevent Ash from saying anything the basilisk gave a ferocious deep rumbling growl.

"Grrrr......"

Once Avdocha heard the growl she laughs, and as if answering back…

"Hmm. Is it so…."

"What's so funny?"

"Hehe... It says that baby is just enough to wet the teeth. Well then… Bring me the mother and her child!"

After Avdocha gave the order two masks soldiers immediately take action.

''––I-It can’t be!'' Anya is horrified.

Avdocha actually wanted to feed the wing lizard with her and the baby......

One step, two steps. The soldiers move through the crowd and are coming nearer.

Since their expressions cannot be seen under the mask, many people shudder.

“Uuu..."<ref>Voice of being scared.</ref> The crowd moans.

Anya is scared and begins to shed tears.

Even though Anya has cheated death a few times, and is a vetran, she still can't withstand Avdocha’s heavy pressure. Her mind instantly turns blank.

The soldiers are closer now.

''"I can’t be saved anymore...!"''

Just when Anya gives up hope––

"Hold on!"

A loud voice echoed in the church, someone came forward to stand in front of Anya.

The first thing that emerged in Anya’s eyes is a dazzling golden hair.

The person in the dragon riding academy’s uniform protected Anya and the baby and declared to Avdocha:

"I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia. I request, as a member of the royal family, for you to immediately release the mother and its child!"

===Part 13===
The voice in the church, through the magic communicator in Max’s hand, can be heard in the airship Silvanus' navigation room

『 "I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia. I request as a member of the royal family for you to immediately release the mother and its child!"』

The moment Silvia exposed her own identity… Max became dumbstruck.

"What the hell is Her Royal Highness doing...?!"

Isn't she inverting the root and branch<ref>Proverb.</ref>? As a result, it is essentially giving Avdocha the trump card.

"Hmph. That idiot..."

Veronica muttered, but she didn’t show an unhappy expression.

On the other hand, it looks like she is smiling.

===Part 14===
''"That's our country’s Princess for you!"'' Silvia, who took the initiative to expose her own name, of course surprised Ash. Though in his heart he had other thoughts.

Because in this case, in order to save the mother and her child, unless Silvia came forward, there would be no other way.

"Hmm... Why bother? If you had kept quiet… Then you might not have been noticed."

Avdocha controlled the basilisk’s reins and approached Silvia.

"I-I am a Princess! How can I sit quietly and watch my people be killed!"

"Hehe...... How appealing, but how come your body is shaking like that?"

"This is because my fighting spirit is trembling!"

Even when she verbally didn't admit defeat, Ash could see that Silvia is obviously trying to be brave.

"Is that so. Let me see how brave you are?"

Avdocha's face gave a dark smile while her hand stretched out signaling her underlings to act. The underling pulled out a shamshir and respectfully handed it to Avdocha.

"Stop!"

Ash wanted to rush out to protect Sylvia, but was stopped by Avdocha’s underlings and is held from behind.

"You idiots! Let me go!"

No matter how hard Ash struggles the soldiers didn’t give the slightest stir. Even the 'School’s number one problem child' is no match for a veteran soldier.

"Hehe...... You have good luck because your location is just right at the VIP’s seat.”

Avdocha said that with a grin, and rode her basilisk as it slowly moved forward.

The distance to Silvia is gradually shortened.

Finally, in front of Silvia, the basilisk used its tongue to lick at Silva’s face.

"...Eww!" Even Silvia could barely hold back her screams.

Though apparently she has long been scared out of her wits.

“Look this way Silvia!” Avodcha gave a thunderous shout.

Perhaps she is already prepared as Silvia opened her arms to both sides.

Then. She makes a declaration:

"To die like a knight...... is what I wish for!"

"I admire your guts!"

Avdocha lifted the shamshir.

"Stop––!"

Ash’s scream cannot stop the merciless blade.

''-Shaa!'' As the blade passed through the air.

Killed.

Silvia was killed.

Ash lost hope.

===Part 15===
"...?"

Silvia is still standing.

There is no blood on her body.

The incredible thing is… Silvia did not even feel the pain.

The next moment–– Silvia found out that the tight uniform is no longer binding her.

Pieces of cloths like snowflakes are dancing in the air.

Silvia felt seriously humiliated.

''"...Why is it always like this!"''

Avdocha didn’t slash at Silva’s flesh nor bones–– but... .

Only her clothes, like an apple skin, are peeled off, and her almost naked body lay exposed.

Coincidentally. The same thing was recently done by Veronica.

Her body, which is only covered with some clothes and underwear fragments, displays an almost naked type of half-nakedness.

Silvia covers her chest with both hands, squatted in place and huddled into a ball. She knew Avdocha’s sight is focused right on her bare skin.

"Princess! Didn’t you desire to die like a knight? Where is your previous pride? You have just been exposed naked to the public, yet you change back to what ordinary women and children do? I almost threw up! You don’t have the right to become a knight! And. It is not worthy for me to kill you! "

"I... I...!"

Being looked down by Avdocha from the very start, Silvia’s emotions were gradually coming to a boil.

At the same time, she is trembling more than ever.

But it is not because of fear that she is trembling. She is trembling because she is full of fighting spirit.

''"-... This woman was right. What do I have to feel ashamed about? This is no different from any ordinary woman or child? And I even dare to call myself a Knight...... It will just make people laugh! Although I do feel regret… I just need to admit it. I don’t have sufficient awareness. No wonder anee-ue scolds me......!"''

''"––Be aware of yourself… Silvia Lautreamont! What’s my aim? An excellent knight? That is indeed one of my goals in the past. But I was asking too little from myself. Have to think quickly. I'm Silvia Lautreamont! What is the only realm that I can reach? To show her the future that only I can have!"''

At that moment… Silvia's mind received God's enlightenment and she suddenly found her answer.

"Phew... Avdocha. I'll have to thank you."

Ash was shocked when Silvia's face suddenly reached a happy expression.

Even Avdocha, who had already turned her back on Silvia, was surprised.

"Are you mad?"

Avdocha ridiculed and gave a laugh.

Silvia covered her chest with her hand and gracefully stood up from the ground.

"Princess ......?"

Ash wants to avert his eyes from Silvia's naked body but they refused to move.

It is not because he has any indecent thoughts.

It is because of a bright shining glow that made him reluctant to avert his sight.

Avdocha and her subordinates, as well as the rest of the hostages, are like Ash. Everyone's eyes are watching Silvia.

"Avdocha. You are the one who made me aware of how weak I am and what lack of awareness I have."

“So? I’m only speaking based on the truth."

“However. I never before noticed such obvious things. It is a real shame to say so... However. '''I have been reborn!''' The past me is already killed by your sword! The new Silvia is now reborn! "

"Oh... I'd like to ask to ask. What can a reborn Silvia do?"

Avdocha look at her fiercely.

The basilisk gave a frightening breath.

Even so. Silvia did not budge.

"I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!"<ref>King of the Knight country.</ref>
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p233.jpg|thumb|I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!]]

Silvia’s declaration echoed in the church loudly.

"Hee… hee… haha! Even I didn’t expect this answer... You want to become the Paladin? What nonsense! So, in order to achieve your goals, you have to try to break through this dilemma. Well. What are you gonna do?"

Unexpectedly, Silvia laughed.

"Nothing. I had said that I’m gonna become the Paladin! There are people supporting me from behind and I also have anee-ue as my family. I just need to believe in them and wait for the 'upcoming moment'!"

"Haha. Don’t you think that before before something like that happens, I can take your life away so easily?"

"If I die at your hands… It only means that I’m just so-so."

Just when Silvia heroically makes the declaration––

There is a terrible shake and just then, in a surge of raging magic, a hole is neatly cut through the floor of the church.

"Sorry to keep you waiting Ash!"

Equipped in their Arks Rebecca and Glenn jump out from the large, newly created hole in the floor.

“––Enemy ambush!” Avdocha’s men shouted.

In the blink of an eye the soldiers move into formation and attack Rebecca and Glenn. The one who is holding Ash is no exception.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Right after Rebecca summoned her magic spear Glenn follows by summoning his own Ark-Dragner’s personal Ark-weapon.

"Appear! The lightning speed magic sword! Caladbolg!"

Ash’s eyes widened.

''"That's Glenn’s personal Ark-weapon......!"''

The magic sword Caladbolg is a giant sword with its length comparable to Glenn’s height. Glenn, without much effort, swings the sword just like an image of lightning speed. No wonder he is Veronica’s escort’s captain.

"Hmph...... An unsightly person!"

Even as she curses them Avdocha is still able to smile. Ash cannot understand how she manages to stay calm.

At this time… Avdocha suddenly jumped off the back of the basilisk and rushes toward the back of the altar.

"Is she...!"

Ash, who realised what she's going to do, clenches his teeth. Even when he wants to continue chasing, the basilisk blocks his way.

The basilisk's eyeballs, as it manuvers in the way, rotate and continue to stare at Ash.

"Hehehe. Don’t forget I still have the bombs. It is your loss."

Avdocha at the back of the altar proudly laughs.

The reinforcements, Rebecca and Glenn, are still fighting the enemy soldiers. As worthy of the people of the mountains they successfully pin down the Ark-Dragners.

Of course,if Rebecca and Glenn show their true ability, in the blink of an eye they would be the winners. However, if they don’t hold themselves back, they will not only kill their opponents but all the hosteges too. Even the whole church will be destroyed!

''-What am I going to do?'' Ash was in a dillema.

If the stalemate continues… Then Avdocha is going to press the button. No, before that, he has to deal with the basilisk or else he can’t get himself close to the altar.

The problem is that, for an unarmed human to win against a basilisk, it is indeed a fantasy.

''"Shoo......"''

In that instant. The basilisk issued terrible breath and started stomping around.

It moves its limbs with high-speed and, like gliding on the ground, it rushes towards Ash.

"Ha…?’’

Its speed surprised Ash. Although he is conscious about it his two legs refused to move. Ash is jinxed to become a statue as his whole body involuntarily stiffened.

"Uwaaaa!"

Ash helplessly screams.

The basilisk is right in front of him opening it's mouth.

In his mind there is a clear image of him getting bitten into pieces and broken into two main portions.

''"My God ...!"''

Silvia quickly covered her eyes. She did not have the courage to face the scene of Ash being shredded by the beast.

''"I... How could I be so weak? Where did I get the idea of becoming a Paladin......!"''

Silvia slumped to her knees.

''"Sniff"''...... Her tears fell off from her eyes onto the stone floor which was gradually becoming wet.

At this time. "Oh... A divine light...!" A hostage with a praising tone mutters.

And the others around him are also affected.

"...?"

Silvia wipes off her tears and raises her head.

A pale white light fills her entire field of vision.

After a short moment the light can no longer be seen, and there is a hot surge emerging from Silvia’s chest.

“Ash......!”

Equipped in the Ark Ash, with one hand, held up the basilisk’s upper jaw.

===Part 16===
Ouch. The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand is so hot.

His consciousness is almost swept away by the powerful magic.

''『 "- Sorry for the long wait."』''

Eco's voice finally can be heard in his mind.

''"It's so scary... Do you know that I was nearly eaten by this thing."''

Ash, who now can feel the Ark’s magic, smiled brashly.

He looked down to re-examine his own body and he sees a set of blue colour Ark armour which made him remember Silvia's eyes.

''"Thank you. Eco."''

''『"D-Don’t need to thank me... I'm not doing it in order to help you. It's for the crepes okay!"』''

Eco's cheeks are bright red.

"How is this possible? You are also an Ark-Dragner? How did we miss this information-?"

While witnessing the dazzling Ark, with a look of surprise, Avdocha’s almond eyes widen.

"My Pal is different from the others!" Ash shouts!

At the same time Ash lightly pushes the basilisk’s chin. The basilisk is stunned by Ash as its previous imposing attitude has vanished.

"You are very obedient. Well. The beast seems to be very sensitive to stronger opponents."

While Ash steps forward, the basilisk obediently steps back.

"I’m stronger than you! If you are from the Asia’s and if you have some intelligence, Quickly be on your knees!"

Frighten by Ash’s voice, at first it is anxious to know what to do, then letting out a scream it knelt down.

"That's right."

Ash gently sat on its back.

"Ah! What are you going to do with Kuu-chan!"

Avdocha screams.

“Kuu-chan? Even when you look so scary, I didn’t think that you had such a cute name."

Ash gave a wry laugh. Kuu seems embarrassed and lightly twists its body.

"It seems that the situation has reversed. Avdocha. Let’s go Kuu!"

Being kicked by Ash Kuu gave out a roar and starts running towards the altar.

"Hey, Hey, Kuu-chan! I’m your master!"

Avdocha, who is panicked, simply looks like a child.

While sitting on Kuu’s back, Ash is searching for the information regarding his Ark-weapon.

Soon… A strange weapon design is spread out in his mind.

After checking the properties and the additional effect of the weapon Ash gave a satisfied smile.

Eco managed to do what Ash proposed.

Kuu, like an Asia, kept on running forward.

The distance to the altar quickly narrows.

Avdocha’s face also turns pale.

"Appear!...... The absolute Zero Holy gun––"

Under Ash’s summons, an extremely long gun emerges out of thin air.

Its shape is similar to the Empire made sniper rifle and yet also is like a spear.

The aim is locked on the altar.

While pulling the bolt. '' 'Kacha' '' At the same time as the metal sounded off, the magic ammunition was loaded into the chamber.

"Brionac!" Ash yelled while pressing the trigger.

A magic bullet shot out from the muzzle followed by a loud sound. The heavy bullet shell casing is ejected with a ''‘Clang’''. It then hits the ground and rolls.

"Uuu ...!"

The shot created a powerful recoil which almost caused Ash to fall from Kuu’s back, but fortunately he is in his blue Ark and stays firm in the saddle.

At the same time the magic bullet is shooting towards the altar, a pale blue flash can be seen.

“Kuu. Retreat!”

Kuu, listening to Ash's order and quickly turns around, runs in the direction opposite of the altar.

"What!"

Avdocha cried out in dismay.

After the freezing magic was launched… Shining ice crystals can be seen coaleasing.

The ice crystals gradually increase in size and quickly engulfed the entire altar together with the bombs.

"A-Avdocha-sama!"

Not only that… Avdocha’s men, while being caught up in the effect, are also mercilessly frozen..

"Finally......!"

Ash smiled.

To fight, against Empire made bombs, experts are required. However, even though Knight Country and the Kingdom had many exiled scientists from the Empire, the problem is not enough time to recruit, train and deploy them.

If that being the case… It is better to risk trying to use the oracle’s power for freezing the bombs to the point they are disabled. This is Ash's basic strategy.

Ash asked Eco to produce an Ark with ice properties.

Needless to say… This idea is obtained when he was in the Silvanus' lounge reading the novel ‘The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'. The protagonist in the series ‘Silver Knight’ uses the freezing magic to interrupt the operation of the machine.

Of course Ash can’t guarantee the actual effect in real life. He can only gamble––at least at this stage the bombs that have become ice have ceased functioning.

"W-Wait a minute! I-......"

Avdocha was barely able to move from the relatively wide range of the ice gun's frozen effect. In the end… She does not escape the inglorious fate of becoming an ice statue.

What he needed to be worried about was that before she became completely frozen, Avdocha seemed to have something to say. But, in short, the St Valeria’s church incident has ended.

===Part 17===
Up to a hundred hostages were released.

Avdocha and her men, who had become ice statues, were carried out with the help of the civil engineers. Those veteran soldiers, in the end, had become ice and were dragged off by the Asias on a cart. Only the word pitiful can be used to describe them.

Since Kuu was Avdocha’s pet it was also taken away by the escorts. Ash silently prays in hope that Veronica will treat it well.

More importantly, he now needs to complete the task that is at hand.

Even though he knows his actions are wrong, Ash still climbs up the icy altar and starts to rescue Jessica who is tied to the winged cross.

Fortunately the freezing magic did not spread to Jessica. Just that, in order to avoid looking at her naked skin while trying to save her, his job is quite difficult.

When Ash finally cut the rope and with both hands carried Jessica -

"Nn ..."

Jessica in Ash’s arms slowly opened her eyes.

Right after she found out that Ash is carrying her. Her eyes widen.

"Y-You...... You are Ash Blake? Why...... Are you in an Ark...?"

"Huh? Err… No, this is..."

Ash regretted his mistake.

He simply did not think that Jessica would regain her consciousness so soon.

Ash does not know how to remove the Ark. So before Eco’s magic runs out, he can only continue wearing it.

Clearly there is no way to continue to hide the truth anymore, Ash can only give an excuse to explain it.

"... Yeah. The 'Silver Knight' is me. It is just that today my Ark is not silver in colour."

After Ash honestly confesses, Jessica’s cheeks turn red.

"To use ice attacks against those mechanical bombs is simply ‘Silver Knight’ himself! Waa-wah. Ash-sama!"

"Sama?"

Ash is stunned. Jessica eyes are now watery.

Moreover. Jessica is only wearing her underwear. The cleavage made by her breasts can be clearly seen. Even under such occasions, Ash cannot help but being seduced. In front of the beauty that is Jessica, even the blue Ark's strength cannot come in handy.

"I have been determined for a long time, that my first time will be at the church altar."

"What lies! It's obvious that you had just thought about it!"

"I beg you, Ash-sama, please give me your sperm now...!"

Somehow, dispite being carried, Jessica really began to take off her underwear on the spot. The first thing she actually takes off is her panties instead of her bra.

"Your order of taking off your underwear is too strange, or it should be said, who even asked you to take them off!"

Ash quickly held Jessica's hands to stop her.

"Do not worry."

Jessica sexy lower abdomen is slowly exposed. Eventually, even the following parts are––

"Stop! This is too casual!"

"I'm ready, Ash-sama... Her goddess St Valeria is also staring at us."

"Her goddess Valeria is a protector of law! We will be arrested!"

"Hee hee... I didn’t think that you were so introverted."

Jessica's sweet smell is disturbing Ash.

"Uuh!"

Ash inexplicably feels dizzy; and almost falls down from the altar together with Jessica.

At this time, Rebecca speaks to Ash from behind.

"Hey, Ash! Hand her to me, you go and take care of Silvia."

Rebecca had long removed her Ark and is helping the escorts to do their tasks. She should have been very busy. However she probably saw that Ash is in trouble and could not bear just being a bystander.

“Sorry to trouble you Rebecca-san."

Ash hands Jessica to Rebecca.

"Ah, ahh, Ash-sama, please stay!"

"S-Sorry... See you next time!"

Ash put Jessica’s regretful sounds aside and ran to look for Silvia.

Along the way the Ark breaks into sparkling fragments.

===Part 18===
Silvia is standing against the wall.

Her body is wrapped in blankets given to her by the escorts. Her naked body, that has been exposed not long ago, is now wrapped up tightly. The thing is, her curves can still be seen. Ash, after putting in some effort to not focus on those curves, spoke to Silvia.

"Yo Princess. Err... Are you okay?"

Ash, suddenly becoming lost, can only squeeze out these few words. It's a little embarrassing.

"Ahh. I’m not injured...... You saved me again."

"My performance is nothing much, but rather... Princess you are so cool."

"Y-You... What are you talking about!”

Silvia, who is now blushing, probably has lost all her strength, and she unsurprisingly suddenly stumbles.

"... Careful!"

Ash immediately reached out, and caught Silvia's body.

But only after the blanket, wrapped around Silvia’s body, sliped off and fell to the ground.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash looked at the place above her neck and timidly asked.

He instantly thought that he would not escape her iron fist, but for some reason Silvia didn't show her usual angry expression. Ash then sets her down on her feet.

"S-Sorry. That…. My waist ... I just suddenly..."

Silvia's eyes filled with tears as she quickly picks up the blanket and wraps herself.

If Ash did not catch her in time she would probably have fallen.

"Otherwise... I’ll give you a piggyback."

"Huh? But..."

"You don’t have to feel shy."

Ash smiled back, turned around, and gently lifted Silvia.

Silvia felt embarrassed at the start, but shortly after that she just held onto Ash’s neck.

At that moment… Ash felt that Silvia breasts, pressing on his back, change their shape.

"...huh!"

"What’s wrong. Ash?"

"N-Nothing ..."

Ash blushes while being unexpectedly stimulated, and at the same time continues his pace.

===Part 19===
On her way to the magicship Silvanus while being piggybacked by Ash.

"...?"

Silvia is suddenly struck with an incredible feeling.

''- Why is this? Being piggybacked by Ash… Somehow I miss this feeling... Am I familiar with this back...?''

This nostalgic atmosphere is so strong until Silvia can barely hold back her tears.

''The only thing is, the gentleness of Ash’s back is just too comfortable -''

Silvia, without realising, dozed off.

"Paladin ~ A. B. S. 1365.5 ~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3

2014-04-12T21:39:16Z

Aoi uchuu: Introduce British terms. More conservitive.

==Chapter 3 - Veronica and Silvia==
===Part 1===
As the magicship Silvanus arrived at Ansarivan-

Milgauss's, the Necromacia’s summoner, right-hand person Anya was stranded in Danebury. It was a commercial city just west of Ansarivan itself. At this time she was alone in one of the many buildings thinking deeply to herself.

Despite the words "Rosetta’s Business Firm” hanging on the door… it is actually the name of a fictional company. In other words… This is a secret base operated by Milgauss and the Zepharos Empire’s Intelligence Agency.

Basically, the interior had the taste of a business firm, the tables, chairs and bookcase being very neat and organised.

But presently there was only Anya in the room.

“'Silver Knight' ...?"

While browsing the data in her hand, Anya murmured and muttered.

Recently she has been diligently investigating the hero called 'Silver Knight'.

For Milgauss and Anya, the hero who defeated the Necromancia had turned into a threat.

The problem is that, surprisingly, there are only a few sightings and reports. Which causes the investigations to run into a bottleneck.

So far, the information related with the true identity of the 'Silver Knight' is still not yet known. After all, as the people who happen to be there were in chaos, such a result is not surprising.

The ones who have the most precise grasp of the situation, perhaps, are none-other than Milgauss and Anya who were witnesses to the scene of the incident.

As a result… What is presently and widely spoken may just be rumors, thus they couldn't find any valuable clues.

No. There's valuable information in Anya’s memories .

"That guy...... Since he participated in the dragon riding festival… This means that he is a student of the Academy. Right?"

It happens that, because of some difficulties, Anya was afraid to inform Milgauss of this.

If she did report this to him, it's like admitting her own mistake.

If the guy, whom she didn't kill, turned out to be the 'Silver Knight'....... This incident… No matter what, Anya will never tell anyone.

Anya stepped towards the window, staring blankly at the sky.

"Milgauss-sama..."

A few days before, Milgauss received a confidential letter issued by the Ministry of The Empire’s Intelligence.

Recorded in the letter was an order for him him to return to the Empire. The Intelligence Department should be very interested in the Necromancia.

"Oh yeah, I have to finish the report before Milgauss-sama comes back......"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p113.jpg|thumb|Anya stepped towards the window… Staring blankly at the sky.]]

"It's not good! Something is very wrong, Shamara!"

One of the men suddenly broke into the room.

He has wheat-coloured skin and dark hair.

He is a typical Tantalos guy.

"How many times do you want me to remind you? I’m Now called Anya! Don't use that name to call me!"

“S-Sorry...... Anya.”

"It's Anya-sama."

"Yes,.. Anya-sama."

The teenager knelt for quite a while. On matters of what happened in the past, Anya is the leader of a Tantalos tribe. No matter how familiar he is to her, there is still hierarchy, otherwise it is impossible to rule the others.

"So then what happened that is wrong?"

"Th-That is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie' just came to visit Ansarivan, which has caused quite a stir."

"What?!"

Anya’s eyes widened.

'Ironblood Valkyrie'- The Lautreamont Knight Country’s first Princess. Princess Veronica. Her reputation has shaken the whole continent.

Veronica intervenes in much ethnic strife around the continent thus increasing the loss of and to various guerrilla forces.

This also includes many Tantalos fighters.

It is not exaggerating to say she is an enemy to all Tantalos.

"How long is Veronica expected to stay?"

"According to official sources. Five days......"

If she rushes there non-stop she will arrive at Ansarivan in three days. For Anya, who trained in the mountainous areas, it is but a slight distance. It has long been known that Ansarivan's defence is very weak and vulnerable. If you took a gamble… You might even have the opportunity to assassinate Veronica-sama herself. But… Anya quickly dispelled any such ideas.

Because she remembered Milgauss' command before he returned to the Empire.

''"- During the period when I am gone, you are to investigate clearly the ins and outs of the Ark-Dragner who defeated the Necromancia."''

Not just for Anya but for the Tantalos tribe too. It's all the same… Milgauss' command is supreme and not to be defied.

Milgauss had only ordered them to spy. Even if it is a godsend Anya must not recklessly attack Veronica.

“Uh... That... "

"What happened?"

Looking at the hesitant look of the teenager, Anya sensed something bad.

"The thing is...... Uh...... After hearing the name 'Ironblood Valkyrie'… The rest have left for Ansarivan.”

"What did you say?!"

Anya swung her long hair, knocking over the chair.

"The rest", that the guy was talking about, are the Tantalos who had followed Anya down from the mountains to assist Milgauss. They are also Anya’s subordinates.

"I, I have tried to stop them! But Valery, Micha, Sergi...... They didn’t listen to my advice."

"They are just too reckless!"

Since Milgauss returned to the Empire Anya let Valery rest. This is because she knows that those who are always careless are not fit for spying activities.

The rest, since they heard the name 'Veronica', got carried away by their emotions, Anya understood this.

The problem. Is that blindly provoking the Knight country is not a wise move.

The Zepharos Empire, even with their advanced Mechanical engineering and non-stop expansion of their armies over the past 50 years, does not have the strength that is on an equal footing with the Dragons.

They still have to bear with it.

At least untill the Necromancia had officially come in handy––

"I will immediately leave for Ansarivan!"

"Ehhh?! Anya... -sama also wants to join the assassination?"

"It is just the opposite. I have to stop those guys!"

Anya raised her head resolutely and she rushed out of the room.

===Part 2===
"It is not suitable for me...... Which is what I should say that, fortunately, it does not suit me."

Ash, who was forcibly taken to the airship Silvanus, for the first time in his life had put on the attire of a butler.

His black tuxedo gives out an extra formal feeling, and there is a white bow tied at his neckline.

With the exception of his left hand as it is wrapped up in bandages like usual. It is better to say that he uses it as a small protest against Veronica. Rather than show her his 'Seikoku'.

“Ash-kun. Have you finished changing?"

A cheerful voice emerged from behind the door.

When Ash who froze in front of the mirror turned around, the owner of the voice opened the door and walked into the dressing room.

She is dressed in maid attire. Right after Veronica returned to the magicship she was given the responsibility of taking care of Ash.

Once he saw the maid’s cheerful smile Ash suddenly got an unbelievable feeling of Deja Vu.

"Ah yeah! Ash-kun! This attire suits you very well!"

"Even with such praise. I don’t know what’s so happy about it."

"Hu ~? Why? You are really handsome!"

The maid somehow let her foot slip and she fell.

"Careful!"

Ash rushed over, and even stretched out of his hand, but the helpless maid fell forward with greater force than expected and even Ash also lost his balance.

"Ouch!"

While being stimulated by the maid’s soft body parts, to the point he started blushing, the two of them fell to the ground together.

"It hurts...... It hurts....."

Ash, who was trying to get up from the ground, found out that his left hand is grabbing the maid's breast. Not only was he shocked, because her breast is not only soft, but it is also too big for him to hold it with one hand.

At the same time, a fragrant fruity smell entered his nose, Ash's cheeks suddenly became hot.

"S-Sorry!"

"No. No... It's entirely my fault..."

Ash quickly recovers from the ground and reaches out his hand to give the maid a lift. The maid, somehow quite adorably, blushed while she held his hand.

Only then, again, Ash faces the maid.

"Uhh. May I ask your name...?"

"I am Primrose Shelley. The servant of Silvanus. Please call me Prim… It sounds cuter."

The surname Shelley sounds familiar to Ash.

"I would like to ask...... Are you a relative of Cosette Shirley-san?"

"Ah!"

Prim suddenly exposed a cheerful smile. The two huge lumps of meat, with a "plop, plop", shook twice.

"Do you know Cosette-chan? She is my younger sister!"

"I see... You really look alike."

No wonder he previously had the feeling of Deja Vu.

The only thing is… Prim gives off a more matured feeling than Cosette. Especially her body, as he remembers the feeling in his palm just now, Ash’s mood became impetuous.

"Yeah, everybody says that, but...... I am not like Cosette-chan with her good working ability. I’m always clumsy."

After Prim blew her nose, with the hem of her apron, she wiped her tears.

"However, Ash-kun, you are my first kohai!<ref>Literally junior.</ref> I will make every effort to teach you!"

Seeing Prim’s fists full of fighting spirit, Ash awkwardly explains:

"You have misunderstood. I did not come here to work!"

"Err. Is that so?"

Prim is surprised for a moment.

"I am a student of the Dragon Riding Academy! It's just that the rude and unreasonable Princess brought me here using force......."

"So to say, are you by any chance...... A breeder?"

"Uuh... Basically I am."

''As an irregular.'' Ash didn't dare to admit it out loud.

"My God! I’ve been calling you 'Ash-kun'…… This is unforgivable! Please allow me to address you as 'Ash-sama' in the future! If you refuse my apology I will immediately commit suicide! "

"Ehhhhh!? Just call me whatever you want! Just don’t die!"

Ash desperately tried to appease her mood.

"... I had made a laughing stock of myself in front of you. Anyway. Why did Ash-sama become a butler in this airship?"

Prim’s simple question made Ash cannot help but sighed.

"I would also like to ask why..."

“––If you want to know… Then I'll generously tell you? "

The owner of the solemn voice from the doorway is none other than the culprit; Veronica!

As usual she is with her suit of armour, majestically standing in the doorway.

"Princess!"

Prim is shocked, but she still respectfully bows.

In contrast. Ash cannot help but burst out roaring:

"Not bad. I really wish that you will immediately tell me!"

"I'll tell you why–– Because of the fun."

Ash doubts his ears.

"I remember that I heard the word 'fun'...?"

“Otherwise I can also replace it with 'to pass time' if you don’t like it.”

Ash collapsed.

"B-Because of this reason...... the situation has turned out this way?"

"Exactly."

After replying coldly, Veronica looked at Prim.

“Prim, for the time being, make this kid your subordinate and educate him well. Understood?”

"Yes Princess!"

Turing her back against Prim, as if purposely creating some clashing sounds with her armour, Veronica left without even looking back.

“Wh-What is going to happen?”

While ignoring Ash's feelings Prim grabbed and held his hand-

"Alright, Ash-sama, let’s get to work!"

Triumphantly putting on a pose and running ahead of him––

"Hold on! That side has a wall!!"

"Huh?"

Turning a deaf ear to Ash’s warning Prim ran right into the wall.

===Part 3===
Sweeping, cleaning, cooking...... Ash, who followed Prim the whole time, reluctantly helped with the various chores within the ship.

Only that Prim is a lot clumsier than Ash thought. For example, she would even stumble and fall in an area without any obstacles, break a whole pile of plates, tip a bucket of water over in the corridor...... and many other embarrassing things.

Unconsciously, whenever Prim wanted to do anything––

"I’ll do it!" Ash would say.

Ash would complete it on her behalf.

They confused many people regarding who is the real senpai<ref>Literally senior.</ref>.

There is like a huge mountain of work that needs to be done. Until the sky had turned dark, and only then Ash realised that it was already nightfall.

According to Prim the ship is now in its rest state so typically, strictly speaking, there is less work. The workload during flight increases drastically.

This gigantic machine can actually carry dozens of crew and cargo during the flight–– Even now it is still difficult for Ash to believe it.

===Part 4===
Only after Veronica finished her dinner was Ash allowed to rest.

After receiving his meal in the kitchen, he entered the servant’s lounge. The unoccupied room surprised Ash a little bit.

"Well. It's also alright this way."

Ash found a place to sit down then started his meal.

The menu tonight is walnut bread, vegetable stewed duck, cabbage and corn salad. There is not much difference from eating this compared to the students’ restaurant.

The taste is not too bad, but it is not so good that someone will shed tears in appreciation.

Ash suddenly remembered an image of Veronica dining.

The dishes that Veronica ate are similar to his. It seems that, rather than the taste, she pays more attention to nutritional balance.

––The thought of eating made Ash miss Eco.

"Did Eco obediently eat...?"

Dragons basically eat five meals per day.

Even though Eco is born in the form of a delicate and charming girl she is no exception. For now Ash didn’t have any spare energy to take care of Eco, so he can only look forward to Cosette’s and Rebecca’s help.

After eating Ash looked around the lounge.

The bookshelf placed beside the wall has novels and manuals. Anyway, there is still time to rest, so Ash walks towards the bookshelf to look for books that he is interested in. In the end he found a title that arouses his curiosity.

"This is... 'The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'?"

The bookshelf has volumes one to nine of the series. The books seem to be very popular. The size of these books can be put into a bag and easily carried around, the cover illustration seemed chosen to prefer girls who are in their teens.

So… The handsome Dragon Knight on the illustration of the cover is that famous '''Silver Knight'''.

"Damn. It's all because of this novel."

Even though he is angry and has complained… Ash decided to read this one. Since he couldn’t find any other more interesting books, and at least it's better than none.

The protagonist Kane is an ordinary humble student in school, but after nightfall he becomes the Silver Knight to fight off evil. Alisha the heroine, on the other hand, is Kane's childhood friend. She usually thinks that the useless Kane is a good-for-nothing.

In the beginning of the story; The unfortunate Alisha is caught in a kidnapping case, later the heroic 'Silver Knight' appears and successfully saved her from out of the woods, and also captivating her thoughts.

Of course, she never knew that Kane was actually the same person as the 'Silver Knight'-

"Hmm ... I didn’t expect it to be quite interesting."

In the story, the efforts that Kane made in order to avoid his true identity from being revealed will make people cry. This made Ash think about himself.

In the second half of the story; Kane is in a bitter struggle with a mysterious dragon. The results are shocking, it seems that the dragon had been modified from its original physical body into a mechanical dragon with the Empire’s technology.

Facing such an abnormally strong enemy, how is Kane going to fight against it? ––Ash is attracted to the exciting plot and quickly flips the page. Later… Kane uses ice magic to freeze the dragon's control device, reducing the temperature low enough until its power supply malfunctions, forcing the device to cease function.

Therefore, the story ends happily.

"Well... It's also good to read some books occasionally."

Just when Ash intended to continue reading with the second volume–– "Ash-sama! It turns out that you are here!"

The badly bruised Prim rushed into the lounge.

"Prim-san? Anything? Why are you panicking like that?"

"Th-Th-The..... Her Royal Highness Princess has asked for you!"

Ash, with a surprised face, stood up.

"I just thought that I was finally free! So ... Where shall I go to?"

"That....." Prim seemed hesitant.

"That.....?"

“The location is the bathroom! I'll lead you there! "

"Hold on!...... What’s happening!?"

Why did he need to go to the bathroom? Ash sensed something bad.

"Come on, Ash-sama. The princess's command is not to be defied! Let’s depart!"

Prim pulled Ash’s arm and ran.

"Wait a minute, there's a wall!!"

"Uwa......"

A sound of "Bang" is heard, and there is now an additional wound on Prim’s body.

===Part 5===
"Come in, Ash."

Veronica’s grim voice came from the other side of the frosted glass.

"Her Royal Highness Princess has already allowed, so just walk in boldly."

Even though Prim gives him a nudge while smiling, Ash, no matter what, stood still.

Veronica is in the bathroom with her armour ''off''. This is most clearly evident by the outline of her body, shown on the frosted glass that is separating the bathroom and dressing room.

Needless to say… That outline is obviously naked.

"But... I'm a guy..."

"What are you procrastinating for? Do you want to be beheaded?"

Veronica’s voice came from behind the frosted glass. It would be no joke if he was arrested and beheaded in a place like this.

"Come this way, please."

There are already four maids waiting in the changing room.

"Hurry, hurry, Ash-sama! Quickly take off your clothes!"

Prim said to Ash from behind.

"Just wait for a moment! I'm not mentally prepared..."

“Ash-sama you are too naive! Once I resorted to the art of stripping, anyone will instantly become naked! Now-!"

"Uwaa! Prim-san why do you take off your clothes!"

With a busty breast in front, Ash’s body cannot help but stiffen.

"Ah. I made a mistake... Tee hee."

"How do you mistake your own clothes with another's?"

Even when Ash moves his sight away, he still could not help but comment.

"Hey! Prim. Could you please not intervene!"

The four maids push Prim aside and surround Ash.

“Sorry, Ash-sama, we are merely acting upon Her Royal Highness Princess’s orders!"

"Err... Can I take it off myself...?"

"Please submit obediently!"

Hands from all directions stretched out to seize Ash’s clothes. Because they are all women, even if Ash tried to resist, he cannot do so too roughly... Before Ash could make up his mind his tuxedo and shirt are stripped off and even his pants are cast aside.

"Urgh..."

After the bandage on his left hand is also removed mercilessly by the maids, Ash, completely naked, is taken into the bathroom.

===Part 6===
"Haa…"

Nestling in a corner of the wide bathtub, Ash sighed with a long deep breath.

Fortunately the royal’s special bathing agent turns the warm water from clear to cloudy white. Although the bathroom is saturated with the fragrance of flowers, so comfortable that you might fall asleep without realizing it, soaking in the warm water with Veronica only made the situation tense.

The only good news is that because of the big bathtub, he is able to keep a safe distance from Veronica. If they are too close it will be difficult not to pay attention to Veronica’s nude body.

Veronica, who cannot understand Ash’s thoughts, starts the conversation.

"Something wrong? You seem unhappy."

"Who do you think the culprit is..." Ash accuses.

"This is the bathroom, can’t you relax?"

"How can I!? Anyway, why are you so carefree? I heard that the 'Ironblood Valkyrie' made many enemies."

After hearing Ash’s teasing, Veronica didn’t even budge one bit.

"Foolish question. Do you still not yet realise that you are in Ansarivan’s most secure place?"

"Ah... I see."

The magicship Silvanus.

Equipped with cannons, thick armour, and the ability to take off as a refuge if it encounters danger. Not only that. The ship is also surrounded by seven dragoner escorts.

The guard captain Glenn is even an Ark-Dragner. The real reason Veronica didn’t stay in a downtown high class hotel is because she believes that there is no place safer than this ship.

At this time, through the frosted glass, a maid reports to Veronica:

“The Fourth Princess has just arrived.”

"The messenger has been gone for a long time...... Forget about it. Tell her to immediately come aboard to report in the bathroom. "

"Yes, Princess."

Upon receiving Veronica's instructions, the maid quickly disappeared.

“The fourth…”

Ash confusedly twisted his neck to one side.

Although he seems to have heard this wording before, but for the moment he couldn't remember who that was. Just when he started to get a bad feeling about it the glass door slides open, and the identity of the third person is revealed.

“E-Excuse me...... Anee-ue."

After hearing that voice Ash is dumbfounded.

"Princess?"

Silvia is standing in the doorway of the bathroom… Naked!

The phrase "The Fourth Princess” and Silvia's face are finally connected.

Even though his vision is blurred because of water vapor… The dazzling beauty of Silvia cannot be disguised or hidden merely by misty air.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p133.jpg|thumb|Even though his vision is blurred because of water vapor… The dazzling beauty of Silvia cannot be disguised or hidden merely by misty air.]]

"Wha...! That voice...... Is it Ash!?"

It appears that Silvia hadn't been notified that Ash is also present. Of course, this is also because she firmly believes that there are only women present in the bathroom.

Silvia’s body is not even covered with a towel.

"Wh-Why would you be in a place like this!?"

Quickly, after learning of Ash's presence, Silvia squatted down and huddled to herself.

"Well, well, Ash-sama. What a coincidence." Cosette appeared immediately after Silvia.

Obviously the situation is not right, but she looked calm and helped cover Silvia with a towel.

After Prim saw Cosette’s face she became happy.

"Ahh. Cosette!"

"Ah. Prim?"

Ash ignored the two sisters who are hugging each other without realizing the situation, and asked Veronica:

"How come…? Why is Princess here?"

"Is there anything to be surprised about? Is 'sisters bathing together' so illogical?"

“Uh...... There's nothing strange for sisters to bathe together. So, I shouldn’t bother the reunion of you two sisters. Now please excuse-”

"Don’t answer yourself so quickly. I'm allowing you to join."

Although it is said "allowed" verbally, but in truth it has the same meaning as an order "forbidden to leave". Ash felt that an invisible force had bound him hand and foot.

"Silvia. What are you so shy about? I don’t mind if you still haven't washed<ref>Japanese usually bathe and clean their body before they dip in a hot spring, communal bath, or something similar to this.</ref>. Quickly come and soak in this nice warm bath."

"I-I...... Understand."

Silvia wrapped a bath towel around her body and gingerly sat in the bathtub.

Probably she is very aware of Veronica because Silvia maintained a fairly wide distance. On the other hand she is sitting closer towards Ash.

"What are you afraid about? Sit a little more closer." Prods Veronica.

"Y-Yes ..."

Silvia moved slightly closer. Even so, she is still three meters away from Veronica. She is now almost in the middle, according to her position, of Veronica and Ash.

Veronica, looking unhappy, did not pester Silvia further, changed the subject and got straight to the point:

"Silvia. I called you here to introduce you to a marriage."

"... What?" Silvia seems to not understand what she just heard.

All of a sudden, Ash also did not grasp the meaning of the word "marriage".

"You are already 16-years-old. In our country it's normal to be married at this age."

"T-The question is... According to this logic, Anee-ue you......”

"What did you say?"

"Eek……!"

Being stared at by Veronica's pair of eagle’s eyes, Silvia’s body trembled endlessly.

"I'm busy dealing with military affairs. But more than anyone else… I worry about the Knight’s Royal family. Do you realise? Since our brother Julius’s sentence, the royal family’s future has been hazy. Although I’m first in the line for the throne I am only interested in leading troops for war. I’m not fit to be king of a country."

"Anee-ue is not unsuitable..."

"I say this my own self, there couldn’t be anything that is wrong."

"However, besides you, there is Mirabel and Cassandra Anee-ue!" Silvia countered.

"Silvia. We're talking about you. This has nothing to do with either Mirabel or Cassandra or the both of them."

"How come..."

"Listen carefully Silvia; You need to give birth to a healthy child as soon as possible. You must not let the Royal family continue on without an heir."

"......!"

This type of talk made Silvia suddenly burst out red in the face.

Although he is only listening, Ash also cannot help but feel embarrassed.

"What are you talking about, Anee-ue!"

"If you do have any dissatisfactions… You should go to Julius’s grave and complain...... Wait. That guy doesn't even have his own grave. To think that he had actually lost his life for things that don’t make sense. If he was still alive......"

By mention of the name 'Prince Julius', Silvia couldn’t stop herself to argue on his behalf.

"Please do not say anything bad about onii-sama! He must've had his own reasons!"

Veronica looks pitifully towards Silvia.

"Hmm...... So to speak, I remember you used to be very close to Julius. Oh yeah, I want to help introduce you to a marriage, the person was Julius’s best friend."

Silvia’s eyes widen.

"Could it be...?"

"Yes, he's Glenn McGuire of our knights."

After hearing that name even Ash was shocked.

"What are you kidding about?"

Ash, who can no longer tolerate it, stands up suddenly with a splash.

"How can it be that, because he is an Ark-Dragner, you choose some guy whose identity is unknown for the marriage of Her Royal Highness Princess... Stop kidding around!"

Even though Ash is furious; Veronica is not only unshaken, she even glowered at him.

"Brat. What qualifications do you have to comment on what I’m doing?"

"That, I..."

“Or...... Do you have some unspeakable relationship with Silvia?”

Veronica's eyes are even more focus.

"Th-There is no such thing!"

Ash quickly denied it but Veronica sneered coldly.

If that being the case, you are not qualified to interrupt."

"Err ..."

“Moreover, can you cover up your front? You're troubling Silvia in regards of where to look."

Veronica is right as Silvia’s eyes are wandering. Moreover, even though Veronica has been soaking in the water for a longer time, Silvia's face is redder.

“-Uwaa!”

Only then Ash remembers that he is naked and immediately sinks his body in the water.

===Part 7===
The next day began the Imperial game which was organised by the students.

The so-called Imperial game, to put it bluntly, is performed by the advanced course students demonstrating their skills in front of Princess Veronica.

When being visited by Royals or Nobles… Performing these types of athletic activites is a well-established tradition of the dragon riding Academy.

Even during the time Ash was away, taken to serve Veronica, the preparations for the Imperial game were still running normally in the arena.

Even Veronica, who has always been rigorous and comprehensive, did not reject this tradition and promised to attend the match.

The game event is–– Dragon riding Cricket.

A very special dragon riding game: Maestro, Strada, Asia and Hydra…… Four different types of dragons with each fielding a different position in the same game.

Veronica is looking on from the arena’s VIP seats, and today she is also dressed in heavy armour.

Captain Glenn McGuire, still equipped in his own Ark, was like a shadow and remained by her side. The remaining six escorts had Veronica surrounded in a circle like shape.

The auditorium stands had long been packed with students and included many citizens of Ansarivan.

If anyone attempt to assassinate Veronica it would be easy to mix in a malicious group within this audience. The reason Glenn and the others were sporting a murderous look is probably caused by this.

"Eh ..."

This morning Ash also stayed beside Veronica, attending as her butler. After only one night Veronica was still reluctant to exempt him from his new duties.

Besides that, last night Ash spent his night in the ship's lounge. It has been a long time since he has not spent the night with Eco.

"Something wrong? Worrying about your Pal?"

Veronica chatted openly with Ash, having keenly seen through his mood .

Even when the audience cheers reach up into the sky her voice is still loud and clear.

"Well... In a way."

"What’s to be worrying about? Won’t the staff of the Dragon Scotia help to take care of dragons?"

"No. Eco must be taken care of by me––"

While Ash is halfway through explaining…..

"Found you!"

Eco yelled while rushing to him.

Although the escorts led by Glenn immediately put on an alert posture, it is also clear to them the incoming person is someone who can be excluded from the use of force.

Veronica also lifts her hand and waves at them for them to stop.

"What are you messing around… Right here?!"

When Eco closes the distance she immediately leaps, does a summersault drawing a beautiful arc in mid-air to perform a jumping kick attack.

''"Ka Poof!"''<ref>sound of Ash being hit. ~~ "*Ouch*"</ref>

His stomach is severely kicked, and Ash painfully moans out loud while kneeling down on the spot.

Eco angrily glared at Ash who is suffering without any reason.

“You better get ready… Hurry up! How am I able to play this game if you aren't present! "

Ash is surprised for a moment, and looked upwards towards Eco.

“Play...... You intend to participate in this competition?”

"Of course! Anyway, it feels very interesting!"

"The question is... How are you going to participate?"

"Hu?"

This time it's Eco’s turn to be dumbstruck.

"You must ride a dragon to receive the qualification...... How am I to ride you?"

Veronica who is listening to the two’s conversation smiled.

"Oh. To think that there is a time that the 'Boy who can ride any dragon' was unable show his own ability."

"That's because there exist some problems that cannot be solved by the use of physics!"

"Are you looking down on me? Who says that you are riding me? It's also ok for me to ride you! Quick, lay on the ground!"

Ash, frightened, shouted:

"No matter who is riding there is no way for us to play! How can I a mere Human compete with the other's dragons? In a blink of an eye I will be stepped on and get smashed up!"

"Err...... or else I will let you try by putting on the Ark––"

"I have not heard which Ark-Dragner had been crawling while lying on the ground. Moreover, the rules prohibit the use of magic!"

The two of them are having a argument. At last… Eco gave in. She seems disappointed and dejected.

"''Haa''...... Why was I born in this form?"

"Eco."

"Do not be discouraged, the one who is called 'Eco' or whatever."

Surprisingly, Veronica tried to cheer up Eco.

"Why... I do not need any people to comfort me."

"You listen to me first. Dragons are a very wise race and their cumulative history is much longer than humans." Veronica lectured.

"... What are you trying to express?"

"In other words 'you', who are born with a human form, must have a reason. Even if the reason remains unclear for now, there will come a day that the truth will be revealed."

"You..."

While Eco is accidentally staring at Veronica, the whistle signifying the start of the game is blown.

Riders dressed in dragonsuit, each on their respective Pal, quickly spread out.

"Oh. Even Silvia took part! Oh... and the opponent is actually Rebecca’s team? This is worth seeing."

Veronica muttered showing an unusual rare happy expression––

"Kyaa!"

Silvia and Lancelot were knocked out from the ring by Cú Chulainn who is ridden by Rebecca.

===Part 8===
"Princess!"

As Ash saw that Silvia was thrown off Lancelot and had fallen heavily on the ground, he immediately rushed out.

He jumped over the auditorium straight towards the arena. Swiftly passing through the crowds of dragons towards the place where Silvia fell.

The game is suspended because Silvia temporarily lost consciousness.

Veronica, looking at the running Ash, muttered:

"That kid... He didn't even hesitate to run towards a group of dragons. He surely has some guts."

"Hmm. What’s so strange about that?"

Eco snapped at Veronica.

“But it seems that he isn't used to women." Veronica laughs cheekily.

Eco, without giving up, questions her:

"What do you mean by that? It is best for you to explain clearly!"

"What?"

“That guy lives with me all day long. How can he be not used to women!"

"Hmph...... While staying with a little girl like you, how can he be immune from women? When he saw me naked, he was embarrassed until the point 'that' extended."

Eco who was red in her face clenched her teeth.

"Wh-What did you say?! Why were you naked?"

"Due to some adult circumstances… A kid like you has no reason to know."

"You really know how make people angry by just have them looking at you!” Eco yelled.

While Eco is angrily stomping around… Glenn quietly whispers to Veronica.

"The boy seems intent on sending Princess Silvia-sama to the school building...... Are we going to sit here idly? Silvanus also is in no shortage of excellent doctors."

"Let him be."

Veronica briskly stood up, looking around at the crowd.

"Everyone listen carefully!"

The strong-willed voice echoed about the arena, and in the same moment the crowd is silenced. Just like a script in a play, everyone in sight is focused on Veronica.

"Cú Chulainn’s collision is allowed according to the rules. Everything has to be blamed on my sister's immaturity. The game is not over, please proceed!"

The audience suddenly gave a thunderous applause as the game is resumed.

===Part 9===
"Err ..."

The instant she opens her eyes... she is greeted by the familiar chandeliers.

This is the girl’s dormitory––The top floor of Epona, inside the royal family’s room––also Silvia's personal room.

A cool breeze is blowing in slowly from the opened windows.

The sun in the sky is slowly setting.

"How do I ...?"

Silvia was quite startled.

Not long after the game started, Cú Chulainn collided with me, the impact was so great it caused me to fall from Lancelot––

Silvia still remembers the incident that happened, but after that she completely fails to recall anything.

“- Ow!”

She looks on her body, and found out that she is not wearing a dragonsuit, but pyjamas.

When did someone help me put it on?

"Are you alright… Princess Highness?"

When she suddenly heard a man's voice Silvia could not help but move her body backwards.

"... Why are you here?"

Silvia simply did not even expect the smiling person at the bedside to actually be Ash.

Although he is now wearing the uniform of a butler the sleeve on his left hand reveals a small portion of bandage. He really does insist on covering up his 'Seikoku'...... but right now, those things aren't important.

Why would a guy be in the girl's dormitory where men are forbidden from entering?

Let alone Silvia Lautreamont’s boudoir!

“Oh, you have woken up, Princess?"

At this time, Cosette stuck her face out from the kitchen and Silvia immediately asked her to explain.

"Cosette. What is this about?! Why is Ash in my room?!"

“It would be rude if you use those words you know. Ash-sama took the trouble to carry you back to your room."

"What did you say? Ash... Carry me?"

Being stared at by an irate Silvia... Ash started to shrink.

"Don’t be so angry with me. Initially… I brought you to the nurse's office, but because the imperial game was in progress... There are also many others who were injured..."

"Today's nurse office is simply no different from a field hospital."

Cosette added with a wry smile.

"Once the doctor found out that Princess had only a slight bruise, they kicked you out of the nurse's office. They also said that even if you are the princess, right now, there is no time to give you special treatment."

They finally managed to clarify the situation, but even then Silvia still wasn't satisfied.

"Even if what you say is true… What is your obligation to carry me?"

"Of course it is because that I’m concerned about Princess Highness!"

Listening to Ash who speaks so confidently–– Silvia's heart could not help but feel moved and beats heavily.

"Haha ......"

Without realizing Silvia's mood… Ash suddenly burst out laughing.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing. I’m just thinking, no matter how good Lancelot is, to clash directly with Cú Chulainn is just too much."

What Ash said is indeed the truth.

Maestro Cú Chulainn is undoubtedly the strongest Dragon in the entire Academy.

Silvia's order, to face Cú Chulainn head-on, was not only bad judgment, but also caused Lancelot to become injured.

"He he. It is because Princess wanted to show her best in front of Veronica-sama."

Hearing Cosette bring up the one thing that she is most concerned about… Silvia immediately blushed.

"S-Shut up! Things aren't exactly like what you said!" Although Silvia denied it, Ash and Cosette still just smile.

Her thoughts were seen through completely.

"Haa... I am simply unworthy of becoming Lancelot's master."

Silvia's ashamed and cannot help but say some discouraging words.

"You don't have to belittle yourself!..."

Ash, even though puzzled, tries to comfort her but she becomes even more emotional.

"You shut the hell up! I really can’t become Lancelot’s master! Lancelot should have been entrusted to him and not me!"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p149.jpg|thumb|Guest? ...... Who is it?]]

"Hey ... What do you mean by that?" Ash with a surprised look peeped at Silvia's face.

Silvia suddenly realizes that her tongue slipped.

She carelessly leaked out a long time secret.

"N-Nothing! There’s no big deal! Forget what I just said!"

At this time there was a gentle knock on the door.

"Princess Silvia. You have a guest."

The voice from across the door is that of an elder lady. The Epona dormitory’s warden.

It is rare that the warden would personally bring a guest.

“Guest? ...... Who is it? "

Shouldn’t be Anee-ue ... Silvia is terribly frightened, but the name from the warden mouth is not what she expected.

"Glenn McGuire-sama."

"What-!"

"Glenn.... That poker faced guy?" Ash shouted as he sprang up from the chair.

"Sorry to interrupt. Princess Silvia." Glenn said as he entered the room.

He then knelt down and respectfully saluted.

"...... Glenn-dono. Why are you here?"<ref>This sentence here use a very polite form of speaking or what we called court language since my English is limited please help me correct this.</ref> Silvia said, putting on a calm front.

She looked downward from her bed towards Glenn.

- When Silvia was still small… Glenn and her brother––Prince Julius––often accompanied her and played together.

Julius and Glenn were not only close friends… they were also rivals. <ref>The rivals here is in the sense of competing with each other.</ref>

It is said that, during the time the two were studying in Ansarivan, they were always competing for the top position. At that time Glenn was a good hearted and lovable guy–– but now he felt like a different person.

His beauty still remains, but people cannot feel any change in his expressions. The feeling one gets, while looking at his face, is not any different than staring at some ice carvings.

Perhaps his expression had been frozen since the day Julius committed the ''dragon slaying'' crime.

Whenever she sees Glenn’s face… Silvia feels depressed.

"Glenn-dono... If Anee-ue sent you here. Please make the long story short."

"Veronica-sama asked me to visit you and check out your condition.”

"If that is so, as you can see, I do not have any serious problems. So you're satisfied?"

She obviously doesn't want to say this, but Silvia still blurts out words fully soaked in a spicy tone.

"....Understood. I will report clearly to Veronica-sama. Next, I also brought a message from Veronica-sama."

"You may say it."

Feeling a heavy pressure on her stomach, at the same time, Silvia urged him to speak.

A message from Veronica is definitely never a good thing.

"Tomorrow at noon; Veronica-sama is scheduled to pay a visit of condolences on the streets."

"Is it......"

Originally the official reason of Veronica's visit to Ansrivan is to give condolences to the people involved in the rebuilding of St. Durham Square. It's just that the trouble Silvia had just faced caused her to forget about it completely.

"So I need to accompany Anee-ue to give condolences to the affected people. Is that right?"

"No. You don’t need to accompany."

"What did you say?"

The unexpected answer stunned Silvia.

"Veronica-sama’s orders are; "Tomorrow you must go to the St Valleria church to seek for repentance"."

"Repentance? Why?"

"Please forgive me for saying it bluntly... Veronica-sama was angered by your disgrace."

The so-called disgrace should be referring to the fall from the dragon’s back during the Imperial game. At the end of the day… Veronica thought that Silvia's performance was ''simply foolhardy''.

As if that wasn't enough, just like rubbing salt on the wound, Glenn continued:

"In addition, during the prayers, you’re not allowed to be accompanied by a maid."

"... Is it so? So when the streets are full of rejoicing because of anee-ue’s condolences, I must act like a nun praying alone. This is what anee-ue means right?"

Glenn, without looking at the self-mocking Silvia, officially respons:

"I’m nothing but a carrier pigeon. Then, I will be taking my leave."

Silvia impulsively stopped Glenn, who was about ready to leave.

"Wait a moment, Glenn-dono!"

".. May I ask what's the problem?"

Just like ice his eyes stare straight towards Silvia.

"Glenn-dono... That is... Have you heard from anee-ue about the marriage? "

"I have heard slightly about it."

Glenn replied coldly without blinking an eye.

"Is it?"

Even though marriage is a lifetime event… Glenn's attitude is cold, and almost without feeling.

"...... There is nothing more. You may leave."

Glenn respectfully bows and gets ready to leave the room, but––

"This is the first time I've seen such a detestable carrier pigeon."

Unexpectedly, from the side, Ash calls out loud to retain Glenn.

"Anyway. Your attitude, isn't it a bit too much? You're going to be married to the princess… Don’t you have your own will?"

Ash simply throws out the question that Silvia had sealed within her heart.

Silvia was so surprised that she even forgot to stop him.

Glenn paused to stare back at Ash.

"I’m Princess Veronica’s knight. I must obey the command of Her Highness."

Even as Silvia realized, she gave Ash a surprised look and gasped.

"What did you say? So you are saying that you are loyal to her? If she ordered you to die… You would have no objection against dying?"

"Absolutely!"

Glenn readily replied, and so made the others feel no hint of hesitation.

"You are just like a puppet...... Don’t you have your own will?"

Originally Glenn took the comments about him dying as no big deal, but now his change in attitude was obviously caused by Ash’s criticism. This time he turned his whole body around and strode towards Ash.

“……You are called Ash Blake, am I right? Perhaps you have the credit for saving this city, but don’t you get carried away because in the end you will only play a small role."

Ash frowned because of Glenn’s criticism.

"What do you mean? Are you trying to negate the efforts of Eco and me?"

"I will not deny it. Luck is part of the strength. But––"

At the moment Glenn’s eyes emit a breath-taking aura.

"Remember your own place."

Leaving behind words that weighed as heavy as iron, Glenn turned around and left the room.

"That bastard..."

Ash exposed an angry expression staring at the closed door. Even while being stared at by everyone's eyes, Ash showed no hint of fear. On the other hand he looked more like a raging pillar of fire.

But Silvia is a contrast to Ash. Even when she was not being stared at her whole body is trembling, and her fingers and knees are shaking.

That the gentle and kind Glenn in the past could emit such mournful eyes. This not only caused her to feel more pressure but she also couldn't believe it.

===Part 10===
"Damn... Who the hell does he think he is."

While complaining angrily, Ash walked around in the room.

Presumably… He is annoyed at Glenn for not being able to talk it over with him.

It seems that it never occured to Ash that "his own strength is never weaker than Glenn's".

Seeing Ash’s angry expression Silvia's mood turned a little bit more relaxed.

"You might as well take a seat. Look at you, moving around like a monkey, it even makes me feel impatient."

"Sorry..."

Even though Ash sits down obediently on the chair beside the bed, it's still difficult to banish the feeling of hatred.

"Princess… Aren’t you angry? In any case. His attitude is a little too cold!" Ash, a bit incoherently, rambles.

"Right. It is cold...... But. He was not such a person years ago."

"How?"

"In the past he was like my other brother. At that time Glenn-dono was as warm as spring... He was also cheerful and a gentleman… He treated me with love like his own sister."

"When did this happen?"

"Anii-ue was sentenced a decade ago. This happened before that…... When I was about four or five years old. Even though my childhood memory is somewhat of a blur, but so far, I still remember clearly that Anii-ue and Glenn-dono loved me very much."

"I see..."

Ash showed an embarrassed expression.

As a result. The felony Anii-ue committed not only hurt the Lautreamont Royal Family but also caused a great impact on his best friend.

"If not because Anee-ue stopped him, I’m afraid that Glenn-dono would have already left Knight’s country...... I heard that, when Anii-ue was sentenced, Glenn-dono became dissolute."

"Really?"

"Judging from this… We could say that Anee-ue is the one who saved Glenn-dono. At the same time, it also proves that Anee-ue had a large enough emotional strength<ref>The strength here does not signify muscle strength, it mean mental strength and open mindedness</ref> to save a strong knight such as Glenn-dono."

Silvia's eyes drift out of the window, watching the evening and deep sky, she muttered:

“Her strength is so enormous that I do not have any hope of beating her...... "

"Princess Highness."

Just then, there is sudden knock on the door. Silvia, who has been traumatized by recent events, shrank in to a ball. At first they thought Glenn came back, but the truth is......

"I’m entering."

The one swinging open the door was actually Rebecca.

"President!"

Rebecca moved towards the bedside and looked at Silvia's face, begining an explination...

"Just then, I didn’t hold back. Looking at you with a murderous aura rushing over, I cannot help but want to show my real ability. I have reflected on my immaturity."

Silvia is terrified, she anxiously pulled up the quilt to cover her head.

"If anyone wanted to find out whose responsibility it is... I was in the wrong. I am to blame because I was too concerned about Veronica’s attention, and ordered Lancelot to rush out head-on......"

"You do not need to apologise to me… That is but an accident of the game, and I did not have any serious injuries."

"Is it? Then I'm relieved."

Seeing Rebecca’s cheeky soft smile… Silvia breathed a sigh of relief.

"Anyway... Why did you purposely come here?"

"Ahh!! Yes, in fact, I was looking for Ash."

"Me?"

Ash was shocked while looking at Rebecca.

"Well, at 7:00 AM tomorrow morning, there is expected to be an emergency meeting, naturally regarding issues about Princess Veronica’s upcoming condolences."

"Understood, but I cannot guarantee that Princess Veronica promised to allow me to..."

Ash answered without any confidence, but Rebecca interupted while revealing a playful smile.

"I had already forgotten that you are the attendant of Princess Veronica, and now you really look a lot more like one”

Ash, while looking down at his own clothing, wore a suffering expression.

"I can’t wait to take it off and throw it away... and I’m really worried about Eco."

To reduce Ash’s worry Rebecca stated with a smile:

"Don’t worry so much about it, about Eco’s daily life, the student’s council will give her our full support. Initially I had hoped to let Cosette to deal with her but......"

"I'm sorry, but now, Princess’s problem alone had already caused me a lot of problem."

Standing against the wall, Cosette bowed and apologised from the bottom of her heart.

Ash looked puzzled.

"Huh? Who is the one responsible for taking care of Eco?"

"For now we made an exception of letting Angela-sensei help take care of her."

Hearing Rebecca's answer… Ash suddenly turned pale and stood up.

"Why is she given over to the number one most dangerous person?! What if Eco was to be dissected by her!"

"Don’t worry. I think Angela-sensei seems to have changed her ways."

"Are you sure ...?"

“No problem. If Eco encounters any crisis your 'Seikoku' will notify you."

"Y-Your words are true..."

"M-May I ask."

The restless Silvia interrupts from beside. In fact, she was concerned about a problem for a long time.

"Why did the president not ask me to attend tomorrow’s meeting?"

After a long silence, Rebecca said flatly:

"Princess Veronica already told me. Tomorrow you were ordered to go to the church for repentance, is this not so? How can I appoint any work of the Student Council to you?"

"How come…..."

"If there is any dissatisfaction… Show that your strength is beyond Princess Veronica's."

Rebecca, like she is gloating, states the impossible conditions. Then she took Ash and left.

"Princess VS Princess ~ A.B.S.1365.5 ~" is closed

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2

2014-04-12T21:33:43Z

Aoi uchuu: Introduce British terms. More conservitive.

==Chapter 2 - Ironblood Valkyrie==
===Part 1===
The following morning, Ash was having his ecology class.

Eco, as usual, is also attending class in her uniform, but since the class lecture is too abstruse…...

"Huff… Puff...."

She was fast asleep on the table.

"……In other words; Strada’s element is wind, Asia’s element is wind/earth and Hydra’s element is water."

The one standing on the lectern lecturing all the students is Professor Angela. She has an unusual concern about Eco as a researcher, Ash did not wish to let her gain opportunities to approach Eco…...

"Well, what is the Maestro’s element?"

Angela questioned with a stern tone, and her eyes fell on the name list.

"This question….. Let's have Princess Silvia answer it."

Even after she had been called out by Angela, Silvia just gazed blankly outside the window.

"Princess? What’s the problem?"

Angela continued to question her, but Silvia remains silent.

"Geez... Jessica Valentine. Please answer."

"Yes!"

Jessica, who was just named, stood up from her seat energetically.

"A Maestro’s element is light."

Jessica proudly replied, but Angela sneered back.

"Correct answer… Although I would like to say that, unfortunately I can only give you half the marks. A Maestro’s element is light, but that's not just that, Maestros also completely inherit the element that it was born with. In other words… A Maestro, who was once a Strada, has both light and wind elements……”

"Hey, Ash. Is anything wrong with the Princess?"

Raymond, who was not paying attention to Angela’s explanation, asked Ash.

Ash sighed.

"She...... Since she heard that the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is coming to Ansarivan, she always seems to be distracted. It looks like she has received some great and devistating blow…..."

Raymond seems confused.

"‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is the Princess’s elder sister by blood, right? What possible impact could she receive from that message?"

"About that… I’m not sure......"

"Do the two of you need my explanations?"

Suddenly someone interrupted their conversation. Ash was shocked.

“Cosette? Why are you here?"

Cosette, sitting obediently in an empty seat, was also wearing the standard uniform for maids who are serving the royals. It was hard to not notice her.

"Hehehe. Her Royal Highness Princess is dispirited I must guard her quietly from the shadows. I also have received the permission from Angela-sensei."

"You call this quietly from the shadows...... However, it really matters to me about the reason that she is suffering."

"You are concerned about her as her classmate? Or as a man?"

Ash suddenly felt his cheeks turn hot.

"Y-You… What are you talking about! Princess and I had fought alongside as comrades and we are both members of the Student Council. It's normal that I’m concerned about her."

"Are you sure? Then I take it that you are telling the truth. Hehe."

Cosette, after a mischievous smile, jumped back into the topic.

"Her Royal Highness Veronica is a well-known warrior. She has a militant-like attitude, which is also the reason that Princess was forced to do a lot of training when she was young."

“The training… Was it tough?"

"In fact…... I’m not exaggerating if I say she was living in hell every day. The Princess had not only been pushed into lakes she was also sent into the ruins to do explorations, climbed the city walls or was brought to well-known haunted forests to learn to survive in the wild... "

Ash is dumbfounded.

"I think that is plain bullying..."

"Incidentally, I played the role of the ghost in the forest."

"Come on! How come you are also one of the culprits!?"

''Perhaps Silvia's timid side is because of Veronica (and Cosette)…'' Ash thought.

"Because of the shadow of her childhood, Her Royal Highness Veronica has become a symbol of terror in the eyes of the Princess......”

"I see…..."

Leaving alone her violent attitude, it seems that Veronica has a lot of personality problems. Ash, as one of the Student Council members, must greet this downright "difficult" Princess no matter what.

Just by imagining it, Ash had a headache.

Raymond muttered with a grin:

"The title ‘Ironblood’ is not just for show. However, Ash...... I also like women who are strong."

"Don’t you worry. I won’t ever care what kind of girl you like…..."

"…Strada, Asia and Hydra… What conditions do they require in order to become a Maestro?"

Even though Ash was troubled... Angela’s lesson, of course, will not be interrupted.

"Ash. Please answer this question."

"What? Me?"

Rather abruptly called, Ash appeared to feel embarrassed.

Angela's sight was as sharp as a scalpel. Just by being stared at by her made you feel like you were lying on the operation table waiting to be butchered.

On the other hand, that dangerous glare, at the same time, seemed to fall on the sleeping Eco.

Ash's spine shuddered. From his seat he silently stood.

“Uh-h…... I don’t know."

"Correct."

"I'm sorry... What? Correct?"

Angela revealed a playful smile.

"That’s right. About the reasons the dragons transform into a Maestro, there are different opinions among scholars; the truth has yet to be found out."

Angela closed the textbook and looked around the students.

"However… The old records show that all dragons will eventually become a Maestro naturally. Although, since recovering from the verge of extinction, the converstion rate of regular dragons to Maestros has dropped significantly. Though logically, each dragon should qualify to become a Maestro."

The students immediately turned into quite a storm.

It was also the first time that Ash heard about it.

"That is why the existence of a Breeder had become a problem. Why now in modern times, dragons that died before they become a Maestro have become the Majority...... Perhaps, the key factor of becoming a Maestro is in the hands of a Breeder."

The school bell, that announced the class dismissal, sounded at that time.

Silvia, under Cosette's assistance, shakily left the classroom. Meanwhile, Ash had this uneasy feeling.

"The Princess is alright, right......?"

There are six more days before Princess Veronica’s visit……

Even though Silvia still can’t calm down, the days of Princess Veronica’s visit are nearing.

Why did Veronica choose this period to visit Ansarivan?

"Officially 'This visit is to inspect the City of Ansarivan, which was under attack', but according to rumour Veronica is a representative of the Royal Knight’s Hawks."<ref>骑士王室鹰派 lit. "Hawks Division of the Royal Knights".</ref>

The inspection should be a cover. The true reason was to investigate the condition of the city and the strength of the Necromancia––this was Rebecca’s point of view.

In fact, Veronica had been involved in the strife between races all across the continent and she even has the experience of stopping a war.

It is said that she was only twelve years old during her first expedition.

Even though she was not selected to become a Breeder, Veronica, who needed to overcome her congenital condition which put her at a disadvantage, was extremely powerful and braver than anyone on the battlefield.

She led the way and charged forward, chopping down the enemy mercilessly one by one.

There is a rumour that whenever Veronica swung her sword, three heads were sent flying through the air at the same time.

Wise and strong.

Victorious and has never been at a disadvantage.

There is no swordsman whose skill is on par with her.

Veronica became famous after she killed a basilisk with just her sword alone. Even poet laureates turned her achievement into poetry. Basilisks were big violent lizards. Others see them as the next of kin of an Asia.

The famous Veronica was given the nickname ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ by the people.

According to Rebecca, once the people heard that Veronica was coming to Ansarivan, people suddenly frowned.

Veronica, in order to extinguish the flames of war on the continent, heroically fought in the war during her teens. However she had also indirectly become the cause of problems.

Veronica unconsciously made a lot of enemies.

The remnants of the rebels still wanted to take Veronica’s life. It was not surprising that she could be assassinated at any given time.

Just right after the attack of the Necromancia, another difficult task was received. Anyone can tell that the chief of Ansarivan is now in trouble.

===Part 2===
The midday bell rang loudly.

Led by the mayor and the principal, the important figures of the City Council, the Academy Council and also members of the Student Council...... A welcoming group of more than 20 people were lining up at the entrance of the school’s first block waiting for the arrival of Veronica.

"For Princess Veronica to visit the city personally...... How long has passed since her previous visit?"

Dr Angela Cornwell, who changed her usual white lab robes for her rarely seen formal dress, also joined the welcoming party.

Angela, who unexpectedly became a lecturer recently, was in fact a national treasure that is given a high authority in doing research.

Although all the representatives of Ansarivan were gathered together, for the occasion of welcoming a princess such numbers were regarded to be on a very small scale. Logically speaking, even the mobilisation of all the members of the public to hold a grand welcoming ceremony would not be unexpected.

However, Veronica was well known for her preferences to keep things simple. They even received prior notice to dispense with all the complicated ceremony, so even the school was operating as usual.

The Students’ Council was represented by Rebecca, Max, Ash, as well as Eco. Not only that, but also the figures of Maestro Cú Chulainn and Maestro Arianrhod could be seen.

Cú Chulainn is Rebecca's Pal and is also truly the Academy’s strongest Maestro.

His silver fur is really dazzling and its unbelievable growth makes him unable to put on any mounting gear on his mammoth like body. It makes anyone who saw him stare dumbfounded.

On the other hand Arianrhod is Max's Pal, although he is already a noble Maestro, but his age is still that of a child. Different from the imposing Cú Chulainn, he is filled with an atmosphere that makes people want to pamper him.

"Hey, Eco, are your really...... Are you, too, going to welcome Princess Veronica?"

"What? Do you have something against it?"

Eco joined the welcome party as the mascot of the student council and is wearing the same black dress that she wore during the ceremony before. It seems she has taken quite a liking to it.

That aside, it was the problem with Silvia that made people a lot more worried.

"The Princess, is she really not coming?"

After hearing Ash’s question, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders and sighed.

"Look, if she was scared to that extent, we can't possibly force her to participate in this. Right? She seems to have some considerable trauma regarding Veronica."

"It's really hard to believe that she turned out to be so afraid of her own sister..."

"Who's afraid of what?"

The person who interrupted Ash was precisely Silvia herself.

"Princess…!"

City Council and the School Council immediately bowed respectfully upon the appearance of Silvia.

The Silvia with her status as Princess generously replied "Thanks for your hard work" and approached them.

"Are you all right now?"

Immediately after Ash spoke to her, Silvia exposed a smile brimming with confidence.

Not only did she look pumped up, but also her hair was a lot more glossier than ever. Despite wearing her uniform she looked a lot more dashing than her usual self.

"Who do you think you're talking to? I'm Silvia Lautreamont! Even though I had displayed an unbecoming side of mine before, but now I’m alright."

"Is that so?...... Then I’m relieved."

Although it was surprising that she looked a bit too well… For now, it was enough to be reassuring.

While Ash was thinking that to himself… Rebecca was lecturing her in a stern tone.

"How can you be so insouciant? Silvia, as a Dragner, how can you meet your sister without Lancelot?"

Lancelot is also a Maestro, Silvia's Pal. Because of the Necromancia's attacks from a few days ago Ash has become quite familiar with the dragon.

"Sorry that there was no prior notice...... Anee-ue, she doesn't really like Lancelot."

Silvia’s answer made Rebecca frown.

"Is this related to Veronica not having been chosen as a Breeder?"

"Well...... It should be something like that."

After throwing a glance at Silvia, who gave such strangely ambiguous answer, for some reason Rebecca revealed a merciful smile.

"If that is so, let's leave it like that."

"...?"

Ash couldn't understand what Rebecca was thinking.

At that moment, all the adults began muttering amongst themselves…

“I can see it!”

"Oooh! That is Princess Veronica's......!"

"They were even able to make such a vehicle!"

"It seems similar to an Empire-made<ref>For those who don’t know Empire is Zepharos Empire and Kingdom is Chevron Kingdom.</ref> airship ...!"

Ash, too, couldn't help but curiously look up into the blue skies.

A foreign body that could not be natural appeared near the edge of the cobalt blue sky.

As the minutes ticked past it grew, from the black dot of that foreign body, as its outlines were gradually revealed.

That flying body was escorted by seven Dragners.

"...... It couldn't be!"

To Ash’s dismay he couldn't help shouting out loud.

By comparing it to the dragons flying alongside one could immediately get a feel of the actual size of the gigantic ship. In contrast to the huge flying object even the dragons, that served as the guard, looked just like beans in comparison.

Rebecca, while standing beside Ash, looking sternly said:

"That is Princess Veronica’s personal plane–– The magicship ‘Silvanus’."

===Part 3===
—Silvanus.

This was done by Princess Veronique as she had gathered many exiled scientists of the Zepharos Empire who successfully developed the beta version of the ship.

Silvanus, now looking like it's going to occupy the entire open space, slowly landed in front of the school’s block. Like a bird that lands on a lake, the landing is very stable.

The magicship design is widely based on a streamlined shape, which often makes people think that it's a Maestro with outspread wings.

The red lines together with the white colour armour produced a stunning appearance.

And attached at many locations on the body of the magicship are the cannons’ trapdoors.

Ash stared at the magnificent magicship dumbly.

He had heard so much about Silvanus but this is the first time he witnessed it with his own eyes.

"This thing is just too big…... How can it fly?"

Seeing that Ash was transfixed in his place, Silvia explained:

"This magicship uses Bright-Dragon-Crystal as fuel. Anee-ue, even though she didn’t become a breeder, used the combination of Dragon’s magic and Mechanical Engineering technology from the Empire to construct the Silvanus."

"So, literally, it was the Oracle’s power that allows it to fly......!"

"That is the way it is. But the only thing that can be used as fuel is a special type of Bright-Dragon-Crystal called Millennium, so there is no method of mass production."

“Millennium?"

"The dragon fossils in the ground, after a thousand years, may produce crystals with massive power.

"I don’t even know about this......"

"It's just that, Silvanus, compared to an Empire made aviation ship, not only does it has a smaller size, but also its defence has some problems. The places where the armour is weak can only be reinforced with a Dragner. You have already seen them right?'

Silvia was right. Because just now, the seven Dragner serving as escort precisely landed each of their dragons on the ground.

Out of the seven Dragner, only the leading one is with an Ark. He is likely the escort’s captain.

"Veronica is going to alight the ship so please do not whisper." Rebecca, with a low voice, scolded them.

Ash and Silvia had no choice but to keep their mouths shut.

As the crowd watched Silvanus's door slowly opened accompanied by the operating noise of it's gears, and the boarding ladder lowered automatically.

Under the gaze of everyone––

The Ironblood Valkyrie, escorted only by the sound of her footsteps, which sounded just like iron being hit with a hammer, landed on the ground.

Ash gasped, his eyes fixed on Veronica’s figure.

''Even though called a princess, she looked more like a Valkyrie…'' Ash thought.

It is not surprising that she is Silvia’s sister, the two of them looked identical.

Their dazzling blond hair and white skin is their common feature.

However, the aura of command, emitted by the tall slender figure, outshone Silvia's.

The important thing is her eyes.

Like an eagle who fixed on its prey from up high.

Her eyes are as sharp as blade. Just by being stared at by her, feels like the heart had been thoroughly pierced through.

Flipping over her red cloak, Veronica with a loud voice said:

"Thanks to everyone who is here to welcome me. Sorry for the trouble!"

Her voice is powerful, and not unlike like a highly resilient whip.

When the cloak is flipped up the armour adorning Veronica’s limbs is instantly exposed.

Obviously they are crafted with steel, heavy and dazzling. Only then Ash realised that the unusual sounds of footsteps are the sounds of her sabatons<ref>Foot guards or iron boots, generally not found on most armour.</ref>.

She wore a broad sword which required both hands to wield. Presumably that sword is the weapon that drew the blood of numerous rebels and the basilisk.

Veronica, leding the seven escorts, began marching this way.

A group led by the mayor panicked and wanted to kneel down and salute, but Veronica with a disgusted look on her face waved them off.

"Please forget about those unnecessary and over-elaborate formalities. More importantly… Where is Silvia?"

With the speed of a hawk’s eye she quickly scanned the faces of the crowd.

“We haven’t meet for a long time. Anee-ue. "

Silvia answered Veronica’s call by stepping forward.

"We haven’t met each other in four years, two months and twelve days, my dear sister."

"From the day I left the palace, and came to Ansarivan for my school enrollment… We haven’t met each other since."

The way Silvia speaks with such fluency is calmer than what he expect.

Ash quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

However-

The next instant, Ironblood Valkyrie revealed her true nature which matches with her nickname.

"I'm really disappointed, Silvia!"

Veronica raised her right hand.

Just when he thought that Silvia was going to be slapped, the next second Ash witnessed an incredible scenario.

Silvia easily avoided Veronica’s palm, and easily jumped five meters off. She even did a summersault in mid-air, and gorgeously landed on the ground.

No matter what… That doesn’t look like a skill of a normal human.

"Are you mad, Anee-ue?"

Silvia smiled haughtily.

For Ash at least, that is the first time seeing Silvia laugh that way.

"How dare you make fun me...... It seems like you had borrowed some guts from heaven, faker!"

After a moment of silence… Ash cried out in dismay.

"Fake!?"

"Whew…... I already knew of such thing." Rebecca, standing beside Ash, muttered softly.

It seems that Rebecca, since long ago, had known the truth.

"Tee hee. This action is worthy of Veronica Her Royal Highness."

Originally he thought that Silvia is making some tearing sound but she then ripped off her mask, together with her blond-hair wig, from her face.

And the true face behind the mask is––

"Cosette?"

Ash is dumbfounded.

The 20 people from the welcome party led by the mayor are also speechless by this unexpected change of events.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p087.jpg|thumb|"I regret that a woman like you is not able to come under my command. How about it Cosette? It is still never too late. Come and follow me!"]]

"Sure enough, there's no hiding from the eyes of Veronica Her Royal Highness."

Cosette, facing the Ironblood Valkyrie face to face, not only she didn’t act timid she even exposed a happy smile.

"That is obvious because I didn’t feel any fear from within you! The Silvia who is not afraid of me is not Silvia!"

"Hehe...... I will use that as a future reference."

Her insolent answer makes Veronica frown.

"I regret that a woman like you is not able to come under my command. How about it Cosette? It is still never too late. Come and follow me!"

Cosette with a resolute attitude answer.

"The person I serve–– is only Princess Silvia-sama."

"That kind of timid blond girl? What are her good points?

"Everything about her are her good points. "

Cosette answered without a hint of confusion, and at the same time giving everyone beside her the shock of their life.

"Tsk…... All this nonsense will stop here. You better quickly tell me… Where is Silvia?"

"Princess..."

While Cosette stiffened her face, trying to wriggle out––

"I... I'm here!"

Silvia in her uniform appeared behind the welcome party.

This time should be the real Silvia. The best evidence, is that she was making the others dismay with her trembling legs.

"Will Her Royal Highness Princess be alright…...?"

Ash muttered nervously.

"Rest assured, at least her life is safe."

Rebecca said those terrifying words with an alarmingly calm expression.

"You... You are dismissed. Cosette."

"I will. Princess."

After receiving Silvia’s command, Cosette leaves with a serious expression on her face.

===Part 4===
Under the gaze of the welcome party and gaurd escort, the first Princess and the fourth Princess officially meet.

"Anything not alright, my dear sister? Look at your knees, shaking like that?"

"I-I am not...... trembling. Silvia Lautreamont herself wholeheartedly...... Welcomes Anee-ue’s arrival."

"Tsk. Seems to me, that apart from your breast and your butt, you haven't grow at all."

''Clink''... With the sound of her sabatons, Veronica steps forward.

"I’ll say again. Silvia, you disappoint me!"

''- WHACK!''

A hard and dry sound echoed in all four corners.

Veronica's iron-fisted swing toward Silvia which ended as a slap in the face.

"Sob ...!"

Silvia cannot help but stagger, but she eventually stood firm, however the place that was slapped became swollen.

Veronica coldly stared at Silvia and with a plain tone she said:

"... I had already heard the report of the attacks. Rebecca Randall courageously protected the city and also the mysterious person who cleverly drove out the Necromancia are worthy to be praise."

Ash was surprised.

Because the one who drove out the Necromancia was no other than Ash himself!

"But what do you do? Even though there is someone who witnessed Lancelot flying in the sky, but…... you are helplessly circling aimlessly in the sky, right?"

Silvia is speechless and just kept on trembling.

Ash annoyingly clenched his fists.

The information seems like it wasn't properly conveyed to Veronica. Perhaps the focus was placed on the fact that Ash drove off the Necromancia, instead of details about the middle part of the fight which had obviously been omitted.

The problem is the unrecognized fact, that Silvia and Ash actually fought side by side.

Without the assistance of Silvia, Ash could not have single-handedly defeated the Necromancia.

Ash is anxious, but Veronica naturally does not know about this, and thus she declare:

"Accept the punishment, Silvia."

Of those who are watching… there are none who are not looking pale.

Veronica pulled out a the broad-sword hanging around her waist.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p002-003.jpg|thumb|''there is a silver flash. The sound of the wind whizzing. Without knowing how much blood it drew in the past the broad sword, shining with a glaring light, rushed towards Silvia.'']]

Before there is any chance to respond there was a silver flash in front of everyones’ eyes. Even though it seemed like a gigantic two-handed sword Veronica easily wielded it with one hand.

The sound of the wind whizzing.

Without knowing how much blood it drew in the past… the broad sword, shining with a glaring light, rushed towards Silvia.

"-!"

The sword glazed Silvia's chest pitifully.

"Princess!"

Ash was scared and he screamed.

“Silvia-sama! "

"Veronica-sama has lost her mind!"

"How could such absurd thing occur!"

"Doctor, quickly call for a doctor!"

The members welcome party one after another starts to moan.

From the beginning of the incident; the only ones who weren't yelling at all and kept their cool were Rebecca, Cosette, and Angela.

Silvia, who was glazed on her chest hobbled, and in the end fell to the ground on her butt.

Unbelievably, there was no blood.

And then her uniform suddenly fragmented further, turning into pieces of of cloth, together with her underclothes which fell off gently–– As if the clothing suddenly remembered the fact that they had just been Slashed.

"Huh ...?"

Silvia froze a moment looking downward feeling puzzled.

It turned out that Veronica’s slash only cut off the clothes that wrapped around Silvia’s upper body.

Her shoulder is as white as snow, her busty breast, and the contract imprinted on her chest–– 'Seikoku'––all of them were exposed in broad daylight.

"Kyaa......!"

Silvia red in the face scream at the top of her voice, with both her hands, covered her chest.

"Princess!"

Ash could stand it no longer and rushed forward. He quickly took off his jacket and draped it over Silvia's body.

"......?"

The moment he witnesses Silvia’s <Seikoku> Ash suddenly sensed something strange, although confused, but now is not the time to be concerned about such problems.

Veronica looked coldly at Ash’s action then she put back her broad-sword back in its sheath.

"Anything wrong Silvia? If you encountered the same situation on the battlefield… Will you only scream to hide your embarrassment?"

Silvia could not talk back as there were tears filling her eyes.

"Look, this is your nature. Even when you wore the aura of a Dragner, you are just a good for nothing blonde. It is better for you to pursue the so-called woman's happiness!"

"...... What do you mean by this?"

Veronica’s behaviour of scolding Silvia, made Ash furious.

The anger that he is holding back for a long time suddenly exploded.

Even though he is facing the first Princess, he cannot just sit by and watch any longer.

"Hey–Hey…... Ash?"

Ash's menacing walk forward made Max quickly whisper from behind to stop him, however Ash naturally turn a deaf ear.

Logically speaking the one who should be the first to stop Ash should be Rebecca but without knowing what she is thinking or maybe she is just waiting for a nice show… She didn’t comment on anything.

Ash sternly talk to Veronica.

"I do not know how great the first princess is…… However, since you were not there when the incident took place, what is this nonsense that you are now talking about just now based on!"

The moment he blurted it out a sharp sword was pointed at Ash’s neck.

“Uhh……!”

Ash was caught by surprise. The one who pointed the sword at him is the Dragner who he suspected was the captain of the escort.

The man has a beautiful face, and there is nothing wrong in calling him good-looking. Just that his pair of eyes hidden under his Ark has a cold glare, hard to feel a single trace of emotion. Ash felt like he was being stared down by a ghost.

"Glenn! Whatever happens next? The opposite party is just an ordinary student.”

"Sorry. Your Royal Highness Princess."

Ordered by Veronica, the Ark-Dragner called Glenn obediently stepped aside.

The moment Ash is free from the sword he broke out into a cold sweat.

Lucky that the sword pointing at him is just a normal sword. If at that time what he had pulled out was the Ark-Dragner's personal Ark-weapon, maybe even with just magic fluctuations alone, it might have been enough to remove his head.

"Long time no see Princess Veronica-sama."

Waiting until now, Rebecca finally made her move. She stood in front of Ash and respectfully gave a bow.

"Oh. Aren’t you Rebecca? Why are you still staying in this school fooling around? I would like to advise you to hurry up and quit school to join our Dragners…"<ref> Full name should be Dragners of Lautreamont since my raws just write half the name I will let it be.</ref>.

Rebecca with her elegant response resolve Veronica’s pressure.

"I had for many a time declined the invitation to join the Dragners, and now I just want to enjoy my identity as a student."

"Hmm. You obviously haven’t been able to learn anything new from this school for some time… I really don't understand you. Having said that, is this guy also from the student council?"

Veronica's suddenly stare at him made Ash’s hair stand.

“Yes, that's right."

"It seems that you have recruited a subordinate who's full of energy."

"...... May I tell you something?"

Veronica's generously nodded regarding Rebecca request, indicating that she didn't seem particularly displeased.

Leaning towards Veronica’s ear, Rebecca softly whispered something.

Veronica’s eyes suddenly shined brightly.

The gaze from her eyes, even Cú Chulainn, Arianrhod and also Eco and the other Dragons can also feel the fear.

There are such rumors in the society––

It is said that the reason that Veronica was not chosen as a breeder during the 'Orphan Ceremony', is that the Mother Of Dragon's thought that the eyes of the seven year old Veronica were much too frightening––

"Hmm…... Seems like I don’t even need to waste any effort. It saves me from the trouble of finding him. Glenn, arrest that guy for me!"

"Yes, Princess."

With Veronica’s order Glenn immediately took action.

"Wh-What are you doing!"

But in a blink of an eye, Ash was caught by Glenn and he was place under his armpit.

"Hey…. Let me down!"

While feeling the cold temperature from the Ark at the same time, Ash is swinging his limbs and struggling.

But the more Ash struggled… Glenn’s hands, holding his body, became tigher and tighter. That kind of strength surprised everyone and maybe it is the Ark which enhanced his arm’s strength .

"I have a mountain of problems, and I want to question you."

Veronica calmly left the welcoming party as they stood there, mostly frightened. She lifted her cloak and walked towards the school building.

===Part 5===
Veronica does not appear to be visiting Ansarivan for the first time, as if she is familiar with the environment, she heads directly to and opens the door of the guest room.

––In the beginning, there there are only the three of them in the room. Veronica, Glenn, and Ash.

"You all go and 'wash' the school premises."

After being given orders by their captain Glenn the other six escorts salute and split up.

The 'Wash' is not as simple as the literal meaning, but it is to find and to remove suspicious persons and or items which act as a cypher. Even Ash understand this.

This is Ash's first time in the guest room.

Anyhow, since Ansarivan is a special Academy for dragon breeders, naturally there are always a lot of domestic and foreign nobles who come to visit. For the guest room; only the word 'gorgeous' can be used to describe its design.

Even the furniture, such as sofas, tables, carpets, and bookshelves, are all imported from the Chevron Kingdom.

Unfortunately, Ash cannot enjoy such a classy atmosphere.

"Glenn, put that kid on the chair."

"Yes, Princess." Glenn, without any expression, answered.

Ash was dragged to chair nearby and he let him sit on it.

"By the way, tie him up."

"Yes, Princess."

"The ass who keeps on 'Yes, Princess-ing!' St- Stop right now-"

Although Ash made his best effort to resist his opponent, being the Captain of the escort and all, he is, without a doubt no match for him.

With some rope and binding tools, Ash is easily tied onto the chair, and he even lost his own ability to stand up.

"What do you want!?"

The cold white sword is at the back of Ash’s neck

"Little devil, the one you’re speaking to is Princess Veronica Lautreamont, Her Royal Highness, you should not make any rude remarks."

Veronica scolded Glenn:

"Don’t make things any more difficult for him, according to Rebecca, he seems to be the one who drove away the Necromancia, the hero who saved Ansarivan, we must thank him properly with courtesy."

"Is this what you call courtesy?!"

Ash was so agitated that he almost fell to the ground with the chair. Being tied up indiscriminately, and they even dare to talk about courtesy.

Unfortunately, Ash’s complaints were completely ignored.

"But, Veronica-sama, this student is way too much savage and rude."

"Glenn, in this world, only achievement and result mean anything, why do we care about that rude point?"

"The problem is––"

"Do you have any opinions regarding what I just said?"

Veronica's eyes suddenly release a murderous intent. Even an amazing man like the captain kept his silence.

"I beg your forgiveness. A small slip of my tongue."

At the moment Glenn is apologizing––

The door was suddenly hit, and it flew open followed by some noisy sound.

"Hold on! You. What are you doing to my slave?!"

Unexpectedly, Eco actually rushed in. Perhaps she ran all her way here because her cheeks are bright red.

"...... Eco?"

"Huu? Hey brat don’t tell me you are this child’s slave?"

When he heard Veronica emphasis on the word "slave" Ash shook his head and rejected it.

"I-I am not her slave!"

"Hmm. It seems things are not as simple as it seems ..."

"About the relationship between the two of them... I will explain it to you later."

The person who appeared from behind Eco is Angela.

Beside Angela is Rebecca with a bitter smile.

"You still cause a lot of trouble. Ash. "

So-

The meeting with Veronica is going to start with the absence of the mayor, the council and the principal.

===Part 6===
Even though she is in the guest room, Veronica refuses to take off her armour. This makes Ash remember about the Valkyrie in fairy tales.

"That armour... ain’t it heavy?"

Ash casually asked but Veronica threw him a cold glare.

"A silly question. Armour is beauty! Apart from bathing and sleeping, I always remind myself to wear my armour as much as possible."

"Really..."

While ignoring Ash, who is stunned, Veronica looked around the crowd.

"We will sit right there."

Following Veronica’s proposal everyone move towards the sofa. Angela, Rebecca, and Eco following in sequence until they are sitting opposite to Veronica.

"Uh ... What about me?"

Seeing that the sofa seems fluffy, which should be very comfortable to sit on, but Ash was the only one to be tied to the chair.

Ash felt baffled because why must he be tied up like a prisoner.

"Oops. I had already forgotten your presence. Glenn, go carry him over.

"Yes, Princess."

Glenn lifted Ash up altogether with the chair, and moved them both next to the sofa. Then he silently moved to the door and stood up straight.

"Well…... I think you should have known that my purpose for coming to Ansarivan is not just for condolences."

"Is the purpose of your trip really to investigate the Necromancia’s incident?"

Angela's eyes were bursting out with a light of intellectual interest through their lens's.

"Ermm. I must be at the place of the incident to find out the truth that cannot be written in the report. Now please do not waste any more time. Can I trouble one of you to describe the attacks that occurred?"

"Then I will say it."

Rebecca who was actually involved in the fight began to talk about the situation of that time.

===Part 7===
After listening to Rebecca's explanation, Veronica sighed.

"Well...... Does it mean that at present we still don't know the identity of the culprit? Only that, if what is recorded in the report regarding Eco’s Dragweiss is true, the Necromancia is magic engineering. To put it bluntly, it should be the product of magic and engineering. Engineering has always been the Zepharos Empire's pride, maybe the mastermind is in the Empire’s army…... Rebecca what’s your opinion?"

"I also think that the Empire is the greatest suspect, but…... I do not know whether it should be counted as fortunately or unfortunately, but the Empire’s territory doesn’t include the dragons’ habitat."

"Then what is the problem?"

"The problem is that this attack is originated from a 'dragon'. Unless we find some definite evidence, even if we investigate the Empire on diplomatic reasons, I'm afraid it will be futile. The other side will certainly point out, to forstall any accusations, that ‘problems of dealing with dragons are the Knights of Lautreamont’s business'."

"Hmm. What Rebecca says's is not unreasonable….... It seems like the search for evidence must go on, but, then again-"

Veronica without warning stared at Ash.

"So the hero who successfully resolved the severe crisis… Is this kid?"

"......"

Since he was tied to a chair it made him impossible to hide.

Ash took a grip on himself, put on some courage, and stared back into Veronica’s eyes.

"Hmm. Very manly."

Veronica grins while admiring him.

"Thank you for your praise."

"Well. I want to hear it from you. The most confusing spot on the report is how you defeated the monster.

"Th- That is......"

Ash doesn’t know where he is going to start from, but Eco suddenly shouted:

"If you want to ask that question… How can you forget about me!?"

"Hmm…... Then I will listen to you. Little bean<ref>"Little bean" is more commonly used as a nickname of little boys who are small size, but also use for girls who are consider cute, energetic, and boyish.</ref>."

"My name is Eco, Eco!"

"For a shorty like you, little bean is enough for you, if you are not satisfied I don’t mind calling you daphnia<ref>Small, planktonic crustaceans, I have no idea where the author got this idea from.</ref>!"

"Y-You really have a foul mouth! How dare you call a noble Dragon a daphnia!"

Eco was jumping around angrily, which completely spoiled the nice dress she had put on.

"Please forgive me for interrupting, Princess Veronica. She is Ash Blake’s Pal and at the same time she is also the reason that the Necromancia was able to be repelled––Young Dragon Eco."

To help Eco to get rid of her embarrassment, Angela respectfully explains.

"Oh. This shorty?...... I see, when you look closely, there are horns on her head."

Veronica eyes suddenly shine.

"Then you must quickly transform and show it to me."

"Huh? What am I going to transform?"

Eco impetuously looking at Veronica.

“Do you even need to ask, of course the Ark. I heard that it is because you presented the Ark to this kid… Only then he was able to defeat the Necromancia."

"What!...... P-P-Presented?"

Eco jumped up on the spot.

Her whole face including her ears are flushed.

"Ple-Please stop joking! That was just an emergency makeshift. W-Why must I present the Ark to this guy!"

"Your reaction is really interesting. Why would you strongly deny him to this extent?"

Veronica, like seemingly from the depth of her heart, was curiously and wildly interested. She intended to scrutinize Eco.

Angela with a bitter smile explained:

“For dragons, to present the Ark is a proof of loyalty to their master, the meaning is no different when compared to marriage. Having said that, Eco has not yet recognized Ash as her master. Besides that her personality of hers is…..."

"That said… She just called her owner 'slave'. It's really disappointing to hear that the great hero who saved the city, who made me think him as a great man…... But in the end, you who are called Ash, couldn’t even tame your own Pal?"

"Err ..."

When he was looked down upon, Ash felt bitterness in his heart. When he was seen as a worthless thing by the beauty of the century, naturally he experienced an extraordinary degree of suffering.

"Forget about that, I hereby re-ordered to you instantly show the Ark you wore when defeating the Necromancia. And also, not letting the others help you, show me how you get loose from being tied."

After hearing that, Ash understands why Veronica wanted him to be tied up.

All of that is for this moment.

Perhaps she thinks, that when Ash is in the ark, it would be child play for him to let break himself free from those ropes!

Veronica even gives her orders as Princess.

The situation does not easily allow either Eco or Ash to refuse.

"Are you able to do it, Eco?"

Ash nervously asked, but Eco with confidence said:

"Why, sure I can! That Ark that has already been completed. I can re-summon it for you anytime!"

===Part 8===
Eco stood still in the centre of the room and like a nun she closes her eyes while beginning to chant incantations.

"Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar......"

Even this is Ash’s first time witnessing the process of Eco constructing the Ark.

"Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas ......"

Veronica, who before has always looked calm, was witnessing the whole process with a nervous expression.

Rebecca, with a keen look, is also observing Eco.

Even Glenn, who is normally emotionless, unconsciously glanced at Eco.

“Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas... "

As for Angela, she quickly took out a pen and paper and records the detail of the situation.

"Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes..."

The only thing is, although it is a very solemn ceremony, since Ash was the only one to be tied to a chair, he has no feeling of nervousness.

“-Espolón!"<ref>The chant is made of parts of a suit of armour in spanish. They are, in order "armet" (a head protection similar to a helmet, but more comfortable), "gorget" (neck protector), "breastplate" (for the breast), "backplate" (for the back), "chausses" (sock or tights made from chain mail), "faulds" (something like a metal skirt to protect what must be protected), "tassets" (little plaques that hang from the faulds to better protect the leg area), "gardbaces" (for the collarbone), "pauldron" (for the shoulder), "rerebrace" (for the upper arm), "couters" (for the shoulders), "forearms" (this is a body part; i suppose she meant "vambraces"), "gauntlets" (for the hands), "cuisses" (for the upper leg), "guards" (to cover the mobile parts, I suppose she meant "poleyns" for the knees), "greaves" (for the lower leg), "sabatons" (for the feet) and "spurs" (a short spike or spiked wheel that attaches to the heel of a rider's boot or knight's sabaton and is used to urge a {{Furigana|horse|dragon|margin=13}} forwar; the word selected names the single spike kind that, on occasions, can double as a stabbing weapon). </ref>.

After Eco shouted the last word, a shining white light enveloped in the room, a thunder-like rumble can be heard.

At the same time Ash can feel his own body coated by powerful magic.

––Similar to that time......!

Ash remembers the fight with the Necromancia.

The <Seikoku> on his left arm glows and is painful.

When the pain reach its maximum point… Ash’s body wrapped itself in a silver Ark.

It was a completely weightless, magically constructed Ark.

Perhaps they cannot withstand the magic released by the Ark, the binding tools, ropes and chair all exploded.

"Oh ... there is a proverb in the east that said 'The Buddha has to be covered with golden cloth, and man must be covered with cloth”<ref>This proverb means that everybody must present themselves in what is suitable for them.</ref>, and the Ark really suits you. Glenn, what are your opinions? In your eyes does that look like an Ark?"

Glenn respectfully answered the Veronica’s question:

"Yes, I can’t be wrong. I sensed the unique magic that only an Ark possesses, and its element should be light. It's just that..."

"It's just that?"

"It is not exaggerating to say that it is an armour which doesn’t completely have the feel of its creator."

As worthy of the captain of the escort, Glenn’s opinion directly hit the point.

"You cannot blame me for this!"

Eco declare to Glenn.

It is undeniable that Eco is still a young dragon and does not have the power to create a true Ark on her own.

On the other hand she was able to take the individual armour body parts, which were particularly suitable to Ash's body, from the massive blueprint stored in the Dragweiss, and then reassemble them. Thus, this present Ark was created.

"But... I don’t understand, even if this is not a complete Ark, what good does it do?"

Angela answered Veronica’s simple question.

"To tell the truth… He has a special talent. Although I have not yet identified the reason... He has a nickname of ‘The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon’ in this school. Far as I know, he is the only person who can ride the others people's pal and his own. "

"I see. So the rare talent and the incomplete Ark enabled him to successfully defeat the Necromancia?"

Upon seeing Veronica’s happy facial expression Ash becomes angry.

"The facts are not like what you say! If not because of Princess-sama leading Lancelot to assist me, it would never have been possible for me to jump on to the Necromancia! But you… How you treat Princess!"

However Veronica, even after listening to Ash’s claims, remained unmoved.

"In other words… Silvia only played the role of a 'driver'."

Veronica’s comments towards Silvia are still bitter as ever.

Just at this time the Ark turned into light particles and vanished.

Upon seeing this, Veronica curls her lip to expose a harsh sneer.

"There is a time limit? Because of that it cannot be called a weapon, but it looks like it can be a tool used for an entertainment sideshow."

The Veronica’s tone angered Ash.

"This is not a sideshow! Although it is just temporary assembled. It is still an Ark that Eco created!"

“Are you Dumb? Weapons that only last a few minutes, if it is not a sideshow, what is it?"

"Err ..."

"Also... Your relationship with Silvia is quite close. Are you a couple?"

At the very start to be asked such blatant questions made Ash blush. What’s more, hearing the word "couple" coming from Veronica’s mouth is also unexpected.

"I-I. How are we a couple!"

"Hmm. A weird reaction, which makes people unssatisfied…... I am really very dissatisfied!"

Veronica got up from the couch and stood before Ash.

"Well, I have decided! Ash, or whatever, I command you to temporarily serve as my servant! Glenn. Catch this kid for me!"

"Yes, Princess."

"What? Your nonsense… Are you even–– Ouch, owow!"

Glenn didn’t give Ash any chance to raise any objections and carried him under his armpit.

"Glenn, prepare to head back to the Silvanus.”

Veronica fliped back her cloak and left the room. Glenn, regardless of the resisting Ash, left following Veronica.

"Ironblood Valkyrie ~A.B.S.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
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User:Aoi uchuu

2014-04-12T21:27:26Z

Aoi uchuu:

====Hajimemashite.====

I have read many short novels at Baka-Tsuki over the years.

During this time I have been editing (both graphically and phonetically, as some of the early translations can be rough) manga for various groups.

Also during this time I learned, likely only first grade-school level, Japanese. (kana but few kanji. However, since I actually translated one word... it's been useful!) I am a great fan of world culture, especially Japanese, and feel that if we can understand each other we can live in peace with the economic benefits from that. (Kinda lame, but few seem able to appreciate the sharing of culture on a national level.)

While enthusiastically finishing some of the more popular novels... I got bored, and started reading many of the less popular novels. Finding that there were a lot of cool novels was exciting. After reading them too... I got even more bored, and then I read one of the many calls for roving editors.

At some point felt that it would be nice to edit some of the translations, much in the same way I did for manga.

My strengths are not just vocabulary and grammar but sometimes an artful way to say things with phrases, parables and slang. (and use a spell checker for the rest...)

I don't mind being corrected. The only important thing is to edit in respect to the author's prose, character expression and setting descriptions.

I would like to encourage translators to include a hard to understand word or cultural saying, even if they don't fit in the sentence.

Its sometimes a great fun puzzle to decipher a paragraph or sentence knowing that just that one word or place-name, that did not originally make sense, can mean an whole new paraphrase or change of wording.

User talk:Aoi uchuu

2014-04-12T21:13:25Z

Aoi uchuu:

===Comment Section===

'''Please feel free to add anything you feel relevant. Or possibly something completely different?'''

Excuse me to write here, but I just want to thank you for the awesome edit you are doing for Gakusen. Thanks again. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86|talk]]) 02:19, 16 January 2014 (CST)

I happened to notice that your most recent edit to Gakusen v3c4 changed the person who muttered "I wonder if something happened" from Kirin to Saya. You may have already checked before making that change (I don't know what's correct), but I'm just bringing it up in case the change in who muttered that line was unintentional. Regards, --[[User:Cthaeh|Cthaeh]] ([[User talk:Cthaeh|talk]]) 21:04, 17 January 2014 (CST)
Comment Section.

I suppose I should respond to this. Of course the correction was made within a day of logging in. In a somewhat lame defense it was a mistake borne from sloppiness. Basically, I was working from an edit of an edit.

''To correct this error in procedure some changes have been made.''

First of all, I now always keep a copy of the original.

Secondly, I now use a really cool a duel panel code editor. This allows a comparison of the edited copy and the original at all times. The program also allows me to edit a whole chapter at once. (Which is especially important because of my lackluster Internet connection.)

Thirdly, it allows me to actually read a great Baka-Tsuki Light Novel chapter and edit it at the same time.

Fourth is that the second round of editing is much easier. Additionally, since it is always compared to the original, it allows a result that is much more closer to the authors and translators original intent to be produced. The third edit is usually saved for much later, after all the novels have been read, and is meant to normalize the consistency of terms, expressions and conventions if needed.

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1

2014-03-12T05:49:15Z

Aoi uchuu: Changed back to British-English. (Gomenasai!) Caption. Improved edit. More conservative, so please compare to before previous edit.

==Chapter 1 - Silver Knight==
=== Part 1 ===

Have you heard of it before?

Recently… A hero succeeded in preventing the monster called Necromancia from destroying the city of Ansarivan. According to witnesses, the hero seemed to be dressed in a silver-coloured Ark<ref>聖騎甲（アーク） Āku, lit. "Holy Rider Armour") - An unique set of armour Ark-Dragners receive from their Maestro.</ref>.

If not for the hero… The city probably would have already been in ruins. The worst possible situation is maybe the whole district… Err no. It would have not been surprising if the whole Ansarivan city were razed to the ground.

However, so far no one there knows the hero’s true identity.

As he was dressed in an Ark, so he must have been an Ark-Dragner.

His purpose was not to show off his skills and he did not ask for anything as a reward.

Ahh!!! He is such an honorable and noble person! The Knight of all Knights can’t be anyone apart from him!

So let's call him 'Silver Knight'.

From here on… We gradually announce the establishment of the SKFC (Sliver Knight Fan Club)!

Anyone interested in becoming a member will be welcomed!

SKFC President Jessica Valentine (Advanced Course first year).

===Part 2===

"... So this is your first errand?"

Ash felt Eco looking at him from behind, so he turned around and nodded in response.

"Yeah, since I’m in charge of General Affairs."

There is a big bulletin board facing the staff room on the ground floor corridor of the campus. The surface of the board was completely disorganized and there were also some unauthorized posters. Ash felt dizzy by looking at it.

Right after the official ceremony had ended Ash immediately received an order from Rebecca.

During the school’s free time… The girls’ dormitory seemed to have established an organization named SKFC. There was a rumor that the posters, used for recruiting members, were plastered everywhere on campus.

Any absurd acts like this which were not recognized by the Student Council could not be left alone.

Ash's first errand as the Student Council’s General Affairs chief was to remove all the unauthorized posters.

The afternoon courses were going to start in thirty minutes. To make time, for a precious lunch break, Ash angrily tore off the posters.

"You're hopeless! Who does the Student Council think they are! First of all… I’m your rightful owner. No? So who allowed you to take orders from outsiders other than me?!"

"I think you've switched our standpoints around. I'm your owner... Anyway. Why are you here?!"

Only by now, did the dense Ash ask in amazement.

There will be classes that must be attended after the ceremony so they separated when leaving the boys' dormitory. Eco was just talking in her usual tone so Ash, without any hesitation, started chatting with her.

"Where is Cosette? Didn't I remind you, that during my lesson time, you have to look for her?"

"You-u...... You still haven't figured it out yet? You really are dense to the extreme!"

Eco puffed her cheeks and turned around in front of Ash.

Her skirt flipped up in midair and revealed a pinkish white thigh.

Looking at Eco’s delicate and charming appearance Ash’s heart skip a beat. Then, he finally noticed the difference.

Eco was not wearing her usual casual wear, but a school uniform.

"Just a moment! Why are you wearing our school uniform?"

"Cosette knew I wanted to look around the school… So she lent it to me."

"Oh, what a nice person Cosette is… WAIT! This school is for dragon breeders! Why are you, a dragon, here?!"

"I'm just very interested and wanted to know what things you are doing in this school. Cosette told me that I won’t need to worry about being found out while I am wearing this dress."

Cosette's devilish smile vividly emerged in Ash’s mind.

"Then… When is the lesson going to begin?”

"You also intend to attend class!?"

"Hmph. I just want to attend class! And you are not allowed to give opinions!"

"Thunk<ref>Sound of stomping.</ref>!" She stomped with a menacing manner and she straightened her chest.

"...... Alas."

It seemed that Eco had already made up her mind and nothing made her think twice.

Miserably, Ash could only continue to tear up those 'eyesore' posters.

===Part 3===

When the bell rang, Ash and Eco were still in the corridor on the ground floor.

“Damn! Now we need to rush to class!”

Ash ran while dragging Eco behind him.

"You shouldn't be hasty in front of a noble Dragon!"

This afternoon there was a scheduled lesson on Oracle<ref>竜媒魔法（オラクル） Orakuru, no translation for it. Literally means "Magic Dragon Medium".</ref>. This course was a compulsory subject specified by the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Dragons regularly secreted a type of crystal, with magic, called Bright Dragon Crystals<ref>竜輝華晶 Ryūki-kashō </ref>.

Through the Bright Dragon Crystal the Oracle could be activated. Nowadays it was widely used in daily life by humans who did not have magic as a source of light and heat.

"Anyway... I have not seen you secrete a Bright Dragon Crystal."

There were many breeders who brought their pal’s Bright Dragon Crystal with them.

That was not only proof of their good relationship with their pal, but also acted as a talisman. When they ran into a dangerous situation… It could be used as a medium to activate their oracle.

Unexpectedly. Ash inadvertently made Eco blush.

"Tsk!... You better be careful or I will crush you! How can I casually expose those shameful things in front of others!"

Ash couldn't help but be surprised for a moment.

"Shameful? How shameful can it be?"

"Th-Those downright low things... How can I even be speaking of it!"

"Low? Bright Dragon Crystals are formed when excess magic is being crystallized. Even when seen… I think it is no big deal…!!! "

"You haven’t seen other dragons secrete their Bright Dragon Crystal before, right?"

"Who says so!? I ''have'' seen!"

Ash calmly replied.

"What!"

Eco looked like she felt a heavy blow, just like a thunderstrike.

"How could there be such shameless dragons!"

"Anyhow. This is a Dragon Riding Academy. Those incidents are quite common."

Eco stood still in disbelief.

"What you said... Is it really the truth?"

"Mmm. It's the truth. For some dragons, as long as you ask them, they would generously secrete it for you. Or else, after the practical skill lessons, you can see that it is all over the field."

"Su-Such a thing could even be happening! The blame should be put on the stupid and ignorant humans who tame dragons. Now the moral standards of a dragon have dropped this low. This situation is really serious... We dragons have undergone degradation."

"You might have had overestimated this problem! Is it really that serious?”

"The secretion of it, from a human request, or to secrete it anywhere... It's pretty outrageous! Although I don't deny that I inevitably will run into this kind of really intolerable situation… At least carelessly become incontinent<ref>To those who don’t know it means unable to restrain natural discharge of urine or feces.</ref>..."

"Incontinent? Why do you use that word to describe it? In the end, Bright Dragon Crystals are actually... "

Ash felt a chill in his heart.

Because Eco accidentally let it slip from her mouth… Ash would have been happier had he not heard the facts that he didn't need to.

-- ''Can I calmly face Bright Dragon Crystals in the future......?''

Ash stared blankly at Eco.

Perhaps she had misunderstood. Eco angrily shouted:

"I… I will not be incontinent!"

===Part 4===

Both of them hastily rushed to the second magic lecture room only to find out that Angela-sensei had not yet arrived.

Students in the classroom were chit-chatting excitingly.

Ash had suddenly lost all his strength, but this was a lucky outcome for him.

Dr. Angela Cornwell, who had the authority to research all dragons, had shown a strong interest in the young dragon Eco.

Recently Angela had made Ash and Eco suffer quite a lot.

If they were carelessly late for class... She might take the opportunity to cause them trouble and sternly order them to go directly to the dissection room.

Ash looked around intending to look for his friends.

At that moment, his eyes had fallen upon Silvia.

Silvia was sitting alone beside the wall.

She was unable to make friends due to her royal family background and otherwise difficult personality.

Although she had received the warm applause from all the students at the morning ceremony, which was a rare sight, but to be able to blend into the life of other students… Things like that did not happen overnight.

Ash felt his relationship with Silvia had become closer in the last month because of various unpredictable events.

-- ''I should try to sit beside her...''

Just as Ash tried to do this brave act.

"Hei!”

Suddenly someone pulled his sleeve. He was surprised and his thoughts returned to reality.

"Eco... Is there anything?"

"That's my line! What are you doing staring blankly?"

"No- Nothing... I wasn't in a daze.”

Ash quickly removed his gaze from Silvia.

Eco immediately showed an unhappy expression.

It's probably because she had seen his attention drawn towards Silvia just now. However. What reason was there for her to be upset?

Just when Ash was fully confused, his good-for-nothing friend Raymond Kirkland raised his hand.

"Yo, Ash, this way!"

Raymond had occupied the seat, in the last row beside the window, which was the best place to avoid the teacher’s sight.

"Angela-sensei hasn't arrived yet."

"This period was changed to homeroom<ref>Typically referred to as "Study Hall" or "Independent Study Time".</ref>! Looks like the staff meeting for this afternoon has been extended... Well, that's not important."

For Raymond, whenever he saw beautiful girls such as Eco, he instantly had a shortness of breath.

"Eco is here too! You were really cute at this morning’s ceremony. ……Urgh."

Having already suffered a straight punch from Eco, Raymond's face looked like he was going to heave.

Ash quickly stopped her from behind.

"Hey… Hey… What are you doing? Hitting people randomly!"

"... I just don't know why? I just get mad when I see him."

In the end… Ash had to separate both of them by sitting between Raymond and Eco.

"Hey. Ash...... What’s the situation right now?"

Even after enduring an iron fist, Raymond immediately sprang back to life and questioned Ash.

"Can't you see this with your own eyes? Of course she came here by force."

"She also looks nice in a uniform.... Are you really sure you don't want to have an exchange with my Brigid?"

Seeing Raymond’s perverted expression Ash could only shake his head and sigh.

"Do you want to be squashed to death by Brigid? Say, how come I didn't see Max?"

Ash only then noticed that Maximillian Russell, who was supposed to sit beside Raymond, was gone.

"Ohh. Max should be busy tearing down the posters, right?"

"Ehh-Eh?”

Max was in charge of the accounts and a proud member of the Student Council. But, to be removing illegal posters, it was fair to say that that was not a part of his job.

"You also know his personality. right?"

"Ha ha... It's hard not to imagine it."

Ash finally figured it out.

Max was very serious about hygiene. For example; When he saw someone appear even slightly messy he would very much like to clean them up. He had a personality where ‘his eyes cannot tolerate even a dust particle’ which caused others headaches. So, naturally, he had to interfere with the business of those illegal posters.

"Also, Raymond, there is something I've wanted to ask you."

"Anything?"

Ash, staring at Raymond's confused face, threw him a question that he had mulled since that morning:

"The ‘Silver Knight’. What is it, actually?"

"What? Are you kidding me?"

Raymond, suddenly raising his voice, shocked Ash.

The students around them glanced at them curiously.

Raymond, after an unnatural cough to clear his throat, whispered into Ash’s ear.

"You-u... The poster had stated clearly, didn’t it? The ‘Silver Knight’ is the hero who protected this town and prevented it from being destroyed by Necromancia’s attack. To summarize it……"

Raymond lowered his tone and said the decisive words:

"It's you!"

"Eeh…… Me!? It's me? Why?"

Ash stared dumbstruck at Raymond who had a displeased look on his face.

"Because you're the one who actually beat the Necromancia!"

"The problem is… Am I suitable a to have stylish name such as the ‘Silver Knight’? Anyway… Who is the one responsible for creating this title?!"

"This name is adapted from a novel. A shoujo novel called ''The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'', the protagonist is also known as the ‘Silver Knight’. Really popular among the girls."

"Oh......"

"From the eyewitnesses' testimony, at St. Durham<ref>(聖ダーラム) Named after "Durham" which is a city in northeast England.</ref> Square, the Dragner who rode Necromancia had an Ark. His coolness seems to be identical to the ‘Silver Knight’ in the story."

"That time the armour Eco manifested was indeed silver in colour..."

"No need to worry, fortunately, the academy has suppressed this information, only a few people know that the knight was you."

Raymond strangely felt a bit jaunty.

"If the secret is exposed... I don't know what will happen."

Raymond nonchalantly replied to Ash's question.

"Perhaps you'll run into your first and at the same time your last romantic encounter. I heard that during the school holidays the SKFC members exceeded a hundred people!"

"Is it true?!"

Of which Ash could not help but shout out loud...

"What Raymond said may not be a joke!"

The owner of that voice behind Ash was Max.

Max, with his nervous appearance, was the same as always. Compared to Ash and others, who appeared to look slightly untidy even when wearing their uniforms, he always tidied himself up just like a newly-enrolled student.

Underneath Max’s armpit was a stack of posters. Judging from the thickness… There were at least one hundred.

"I can't stand this any longer. These people really know how to create trouble."

Max sighed deeply as he somehow suddenly stood between Ash and Raymond.

"However, since the SKFC has been locked on to by Rebecca, they better be careful. Things like this will soon come to an end. Right? Moreover. This type of activity is impossible to maintain after a while."

After Ash had optimistically expressed his opinion… Max immediately stared sharply at him through his glasses.

"Wh-Why are you looking at me?"

"It appears that you still don't know the situation you're in. Listen, currently, it has been confirmed that there is a large chance that the ability of being a Breeder will be passed on to the next generation. The ‘Silver Knight’ is powerful enough to defeat that Necromancia. Moreover, he is also equipped with an Ark, which also proved that he is an Ark-Dragner."

"…... So?"

Max, just like Raymond, lowered his tone.

"Just in case someone knew that you are the ‘Silver Knight’…... the SKFC will do everything in their might to win your sperm."

"Since when did I become breeding stock<ref>(種馬) ''Taneuma''. Direct translation is breeding horse but it means a breeding medium or tool.</ref>?" 

"Stay cool. The SKFC members are originally Breeders. If they bear the child of the Silver Knight, there will be a great chance that the child will become an Ark-Dragner like his father. Though because of Xenoglavia’s<ref>(ゼノグラヴィア戦争) ''Zenoguravia-sensō''. I cannot find any reference for this name do tell me if anyone knew.</ref>War, the young people who intend to become a Dragner are decreasing...... but when it comes to an Ark-Dragner it's at a whole new level."

It sounded like a joke, for others who listened in, but Max spoke with a serious expression.

"If that being the case, I'll help you no matter what the reason is. I can't stand the Ash who has luck with the girls!"

"Raymond. It seems that we need to have a talk."

"No. I agree with what Raymond is saying."

"Not you too… Max!"

"Otherwise, you don't mind the SKFC knowing your secret?"

Ash was left speechless.

"Well. I...... Of course I don’t want them to know. Becoming popular with girls, with those impure motives, is nothing to be happy about."

"Hmm. I'm not really satisfied."

Eco suddenly snappily grumbled.

"To be honest… The reason you defeated Necromancia is only because of the Ark I created? But the one in the spotlight is only the knight…… That's why I always say humans are stupid and ignorant beings!"

"What Eco said is absolutely right."

Just when they were busy chit chatting with Max……

"Sorry for my interruption my fellow students!"

The classroom door suddenly opened with a "Bang!" A group of girls, dressed in the academy's uniforms, started to fill the classroom.

Their sudden entrance left the students speechless. Everyone’s attention was focused on the suspicious group.

There were a total of about twenty people.

The suspected leader of the group of girls stepped up to the lectern and her eyes swept over the classroom.

Ash couldn’t help but stare at her.

The girl’s posture had a temperament of nobility in it.

Her orange-yellow elegant curly hair rested in front of her chest. Her slender eyes emitted rays of sparks as if an emerging raging fire.

"I'm the President of the SKFC, Jessica Valentine!"

Having just announced her name… Jessica surveyed at the students around her with an elegant aura.

"Those, who have seen our posters, I think you already know of our aim, right? That's right; We're looking for ‘Silver Knight’-sama. That day during the Necromancia’s attack, being during the school’s off days, we deduced that there should be a lot of students who happened to be wandering by St. Durham Square, the combat scene. Now this classroom may have one or two witnesses……"

"Don’t you think you're asking too much?"

Silvia interrupted Jessica’s speech with a courageous and serious voice.

"Oh my, I wondered who it might be, and it turned out to be Oujo-sama<ref>(王女) ''Ōjo'', "Princess".</ref>."

Jessica's response made Silvia’s face turn black.

"I'm not speaking to you as the Princess, but as the Student Council’s disciplinary affairs member who is now giving you a warning! Do you not realise that you are destroying the school's discipline?!!!"

"Ha! Since you're not talking to me as a Princess then I won’t be branded as disrespectful when I argue with you, right?

Jessica's decision that she did not intend to make any concessions surprised others.

"Do you think your behavior is acceptable?"

"The school’s discipline compared to my ‘desire’ is simply nothing!"

"Well, if that's the case, might you speak out your ambition? I'm all ears."

Jessica immediately raised her head and announced as though she had already prepared for this:

"I want to give birth to ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s children!"

An awkward silence suddenly enveloped the entire classroom.

Obviously everyone was feeling disgusted with her direct declaration.

Even Silvia was stunned speechless.

A low profile student who was one of the followers finally broke the silence.

"President! Your speech violated club regulation article one hundred and twenty-seven!"

"Hmm…... As expected of Vice-President Lynette-san. Good job noticing. Please allow me to withdraw my previous declaration."

"Withdrawal of declaration has been confirmed!"

After he had listened to Jessica and Lynette, who spoke annoyingly rhythmically, Ash muttered:

"Th-That rumor......"

Raymond tried to pacify his concern for Ash:

"Carelessly resisting is suicidal… Ash. I heard that the Valentine Family is a traditional noble family."

Facing Raymond’s smile. Eco started to speak out loud:

"Oh. I really can’t stand those people any longer. The true face behind 'Silver Knight' is……"

"W-Wa-Wait! Eco!"

Ash quickly covered her mouth from behind.

"Mmm -!"

Eco struggled with all her limbs. In the eyes of others it looked like Ash was, hugging her from behind, not wanting to let go. Her body's tenderness and lovely feel made Ash blush, but, still, he must not let go.

Was it rare that the school was helping me to control the information? If my identity were revealed, in a place like this, all their hard work would go to waste.

"Back to the topic, Princess Silvia, it is true that we are making a list of people who were present at the incident."

"So……?"

"Princess. Your name is also on top of our list. Maybe you already know the true identity of ‘Silver Knight’-sama. Am I right?"

"Y-You. What are you talking about?!"

It seemed that the straightforward character of Silvia was not good at lying.

Silvia was obviously shaken when Jessica hit the bull’s eye.

It was a lie if she said she didn’t know, because at that time the one riding with her on Lancelot was actually the ‘Silver Knight’.

"Hey…... Ash? It seems the situation has gotten worse."

Ash had already stood up and was coming to Silvia’s rescue when Raymond warned him.

"Miss. I’m sorry, but currently, its still school hours."

The crowd’s attention immediately turned to Ash.

Silvia also looked at Ash with a surprised expression. Perhaps this was an illusion but it seemed that she had breathed a sigh of relief.

"Hey. I remember that you are the Student Council’s……"

Ash mercilessly interrupted Jessica.

"Can you please leave the classroom immediately? Don't interrupt us in our lesson time."

The classroom fell silent.

Ash's determination caused the entire student body to gasp.

Unexpectedly. Jessica didn’t back down.

On the contrary… She was also smiling.

Compared with an undisguised expression that kind of smile was even scarier.

"Your name is Ash, right? A guy with no obvious achievements but still allowed to join the Student Council…... Hey, Vice-President Lynette? His name is on the list of people who were at St. Durham Square, isn’t it?"

Lynette, as though she had memorised the whole list, answered immediately without any hesitation:

"......Ash Blake, advanced course first year. Someone actually confirmed that he showed up near St. Durham Square!"

After hearing Lynette’s report, Ash broke out in a cold sweat.

"Speaking of this, people call you 'The Boy who can Ride any Dragon'. Could it be….... that you had possibly managed to ride the Necromancia?”

"……!"

A sudden hit at the bull’s eye left Ash speechless.

"It's just that ‘Silver Knight’-sama is a noble Ark-Dragner, and you…... Are nothing but simply a Breeder who is a nobody. People like you simply cannot be compared to ‘Silver Knight’-sama! Oh Hohoho!"

Fortunately Jessica just laughed at that thought. She would never have expected she was at the cusp of the truth.

"Not to mention your Pal ...... hee hee, it's funny just by thinking at it. She turned out to be a child. Even this morning's ceremony had a really fantastic finish."

"Wh-What did you say……!"

Upon hearing this Eco naturally became angry and tried to stand up to refute but……

"You!!! Don’t interrupt."

Ash immediately reached out and stopped her.

"Who do you think you are......"

Although she felt reluctant. Eco shut her mouth.

All the SKFC members were trembling under the pressure of Ash’s aura.

Although Ash was now a member of the Student Council… In the past he was none other than the infamous 'Number One Problem Child’.

And it was not a name given for nothing.

Jessica was also no different; She was the only one who was showing no sign of fear.

"Ash, stay calm! She's a noble!"

Raymond gave a out loud warning but Ash could not bothered by it.

"What is a noble to me when I even challenged a Princess!!!!!!"

"Ahh... You're right. I had totally forgotten all about it..."

Raymond looked into the distance with a crestfallen expression.

"How dare you insult my Pal...? What is the meaning of this? If you want to apologise… It's better that you do it right now!"

"Hah<ref>An insulting sound.</ref>! You are but a commoner and you dare to order ''me'' around!"

Ash and Jessica.

Each refused to back down and stared intently at each other.

Just when the tension reached its climax……

The classroom door was suddenly slammed open.

"So…... I see that you have been wandering around here. Jessica."

All the people in the classroom were attracted to the overwhelming presence everybody remained silent.

The one and only exception was Jessica.

"Rebecca! Y-Y…… You stay out of my way!"

Jessica unexpectedly kept her composure even when the opponent was Rebecca.

"He-Hey, that girl called Jessica... She really has some nerve? She actually dared to address Rebecca by her first name."

Raymond, opposite of the speechless Ash, calmly pulled out his notepad and made a quick flip.

"According to my information network…... Both of them seem to be childhood friends who grew up in the same hometown."

"You're still the same. Never missing out on any girl's information."

"Hmm…... You're wrong, Ash. It's limited to 'cute girls' only, okay?"

Raymond laughed proudly at his own work while Rebecca and Jessica's argument still continued.

"I would like to throw the question back to you, Rebecca, why are you here at 'this place'?"

"I came here to find the members of the Student Council…... It seems that you still continue with the same stupidity, Jessica."

"You've come at just the right time! Everyone listen carefully!!! We have confirmation the Student Council is controlling information about the St. Durham Square attacks! The Student Council went to all that trouble to cover up what? Does it imply that the Student Council has known ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s identity from the very beginning?"

"Even if it is the truth I am not obligated to tell you at all. I suggest you remember your duty as a student?"

"I have no intention of disturbing the class. I just simply urge everyone here to help us collect ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s information!"

"You're still the same. full of nonsensical reasoning......"

"I, the representative of the SKFC, request the Student Council to reveal that information to the public!"

After Jessica’s tenacious declaration. Rebecca gave a frightening expression.

"......In the beginning I didn’t want to cause you trouble, because you are my childhood friend, but it seems that I need to deal with this another way."

Under the gaze of her fierce-looking eyes Jessica felt that she was going to surrender and back off.

In the eyes of Ash, it seemed that, Rebecca’s back was full of red glowing aura.

"Wha-What…... the Student Council President even tried to use force to solve problems……"

Jessica could not help but shrink and take a few steps backwards.

"Too bad. To think that I even bothered to treat you nicely."

Rebecca, with a graceful smile, whispered into the ears of Jessica.

"Yikes!"

Jessica immediately started sweating, her back unnaturally bent.

Jessica headed down and rushed out of the classroom. The Vice-President, Lynette, and the other SKFC members quickly followed.

"Right. Silvia of Disciplinary Affairs, Accounts<ref>The original can mean treasurer and accounts but still I think CFO is better :).</ref> Max, and Ash of General Affairs. The three people mentioned please report to the Student Council’s office immediately. An emergency meeting is to be held. That is all."

Rebecca left after she had informed the others.

"An emergency meeting... Is something wrong?"

Ash asked, but Max was equally confused.

"The President came personally to inform you, but she also chose to do it during lesson time...... certainly it is no simple matter."

Seated, between Ash and Max, Raymond gave a rare worrisome look and murmured and grumbled.

"I’m so lonely. I didn't expect that even Ash would join the Student Council…... Damn. Why am I the only one left out?"

"Raymond ......"

"Fortunately, I still have Eco! Hey Eco, why don’t the two of us go have a cup of tea……? Urgh!"

With her superhuman strength, her iron fist knocked Raymond away.

"You shut up! Obviously I'm a member of the Student Council…... The woman dared to not mention my name and choose to ignore a noble Dragon? I will not forgive her!"

After Ash glanced at Raymond, who was stuck on the wall, he spoke a few words to calm Eco down:

"You are their 'mascot'. So you don't have to attend any meetings."

"Nothing to do with me?! Since you all wounded the pride of a Dragon… I will attend no matter what!" Eco cried.

===Part 5===

The Student Council office was located at the top of the school premises in the central tower.

Ash, Silvia, Max, and Eco were all walking towards the Student Council office.

Max who walked at a quick pace lead the way while the trio of Silvia, Ash and Eco walked together.

The formation was purely coincidental, but sandwiched in between Eco and Silvia, Ash didn't need any more reason to feel nervous.

"Why are we not there yet......?" Ash even had such thoughts.

Since it was still class time there were no other students in the corridor.

But since the staff meeting had yet to end, every classroom had changed into homeroom.

Even though the students of Ansarivan were possesed of high self-imposed standards , homeroom was still inevitably noisy, even the corridors were full of the sounds of laughter.

"By the way… There are two members we haven’t met yet."

While climbing stairs. Ash asked while facing Max’s back.

"Ahh…… The vice president and the secretary? I think both of them will not be attending this meeting."

After hearing Max’s answer, Silvia responded to it.

"I cannot turn a deaf ear in this case. Do both of them have any consciousness of being in the student council? Any jobs related to the social welfare of people need to be completed with full effort…… These are the family rules of the Lautreamont family!!!! Who do the vice president and the secretary think they are? "

"Plea- Please allow your humble servant to explain to thee...... Ahem! "<ref>This whole sentence is spoken in polite form.</ref>

Max, who wasn't used to being with Silvia, spoke in the polite form so that’s why he couldn't help but give an unnatural cough.

Max found out that conversation using the polite form didn't seem natural even though he was addressing the princess, after all both of them were members of the student council, and they were students of the same grade.

"The vice president is famous as one who only knows how to fool around, but that person's ability as a Dragner is obvious to all. That’s why the president will turn a blind eye. It's understandable."

Sure enough. Silvia was dissatisfied.

"How come there is such lax and insolent person! Since that person has an ability that the president acknowledges, but why is the vice president fooling around?"

"OK, OK, in this case since the president has acquiesced to it, complaining to Max will be useless."

Ash gently calmed Silvia down, but on the other hand he also agreed with her point of view.

"What kind of person is the secretary?"

Right after Ash asked Max answer with a mumbling tone.

"The secretary…... In short, is no ordinary pushover. Anyway, you'll meet sooner or later."

Speaking of which. They had arrived at the Student Council’s office. The topic regarding the vice president and the secretary came to a stop.

===Part 6===

"So let us begin our meeting."

Rebecca with her opening remark started the emergency meeting.

Ash was initially nervous, fearing that Rebecca would be unhappy with Eco who came without being invited, but in the end Rebecca didn't do or complain about anything.

Looking around, as Max had said, the vice president and the secretary seats were empty. So the secretary’s work was handed over to Max.

Although Ash was curious, about the vice president and secretary, in the end it was clearly not the right time to ask such questions.

The staff meeting had been extended and all classes were changed into homeroom, in this situation, it was not hard to figure out that something important had happened.

It seemed that it was really related to the attacks of the Necromancia?

Although he wasn't willing to make any assumptions...... but this still did not rule out the occurrence of more serious incidents.

"I believe everyone had also heard about the rumor……"

The members present held their breath to listen to Rebecca's announcement.

"Recently, with the girl’s dormitory as their base, the organization named SKFC is highly active in the shadows."

"I beg your pardon?"

An unexpected answer caused Ash to almost fall off his chair. At first he wondered what emergency or urgent event it was but he didn't think for one moment that it would be the SKFC……

While observing the other people's reactions Silvia and Eco looked on blankly. Max alone seemed to have become accustomed to it while Rebecca continued with her speech.

"What is the problem?"

Under Rebecca's glare Ash hurriedly corrected his sitting posture.

"Uh…... Because you said it was an emergency meeting… I thought it would be a more intractable problem."

"Take it easy, we are not at the main topic yet. SKFC is just a side problem to be discussed."

"I see…..."

Ash nodded to indicate his understanding. At this time Silvia suddenly raised her hand.

"What is the problem. Silvia?"

"I have something that I don’t understand. When president sent Jessica Valentine running off…..."

"Oh. I'd like to hear too."

Ash echoed Silvia’s question.

Rebecca took only a few words to send off that arrogant Jessica which made everyone curious what she whispered into Jessica’s ears.

"Oh, that thing."

Rebecca shrugged with a wry smile.

"As you know… She and I are childhood playmates. No, it wouldn't be an exaggeration if I say we are family. Since childhood she sees me as her rival…... In short, she hates to admit defeat."

"Just like family......? I have heard of the Valentines being a traditional noble family."

After Ash stated the information acquired from Raymond Rebecca could not help but burst out laughing.

"Oh... This is really an interesting rumor. Their family has been serving the family of Randall as house maids for generations. Just like the house of Shirley who serves the royal family of the Paladin<ref>Paladin. The king of Lautreamont knight country and also the highest class of all Dragner. Still, the interesting thing is that, the current king is not even a breeder.</ref>." Rebecca, with her eyes staring into a distance, murmured.

"That girl...... A maid?"

Jessica's glamorous figure and the word maid could not completely be combined. Ash was shocked.

"So. I threatened her…… 'If you continue to stir up trouble… Do not blame me if I announce the Valentine family’s background to the public.'"

From the look in her eyes it was like she was lecturing her useless little sister.

"But why did she lie that the Valentine family is of nobility?"

Silvia seemed completely unable to understand Jessica’s thinking.

"Jessica from time to time likes to daydream, she had a particular strong sense for nobility, and now she even seriously believes her family is from a royal linage...... you just need to take it as a disease that can be commonly seen in the adolescence years."<ref>Referring to [http://animanga.wikia.com/wiki/Chuunibyou 中二病/ちゅうにびょう/Chuunibyou]</ref>

"So that is how it is......"

With the misunderstanding cleared up Ash felt relieved.

At the same time after learning that the Valentine’s were maids, Ash subconsciously began to imagine Jessica wearing a maid costume.

That insufferably arrogant girl with a feel of nobility… When putting on maid attire to serve her master, somehow it doesn't feel bad…… Ash cannot help but fantasizing Jessica’s graceful appearance.

"Hey…... What are you thinking?"

When he returned back to consciousness… He felt a painful sting on side of his cheek.

Eco, somewhat forcefully, had slapped Ash’s face.

"No, nothing, I am not thinking of anything…..."

Ash face is full of embarrassment.

"Are you're thinking of some improper image?"

"Urgh. I'm also thinking the same thing."

Even Silvia, also supporting Eco's viewpoint, questioned Ash.

"I think there is an eighty percent chance that he most likely imagined Jessica wearing a maid attire."

After Rebecca's cheeky outspokenness of her own view… Ash suddenly turned pale.

"Ho-How do you know?"

"Oh. I managed to guess it? I am just speaking from my woman's intuition…"

Rebecca seems happily laughing.

Ash feels a murderous intend behind and quickly turns around to look back.

"Have you forgotten that I am rearing you……? And yet you still dare to have fantasies of those females...... You cannot be forgiven! Don’t you think you lack self-consciousness?"

Eco’s fist is shaking.

"How dare you have any perverted thoughts of the other students attending school…... How shameless! All enemies of women must taste the iron hammer of death!"

Silvia was flushed with anger.

"Wa-Wait! It is just that I was distracted for a moment! Besides. Why do you need to be angry with me because of these things?"

"I'm gonna trample you!"

"The inviolable family rules!"

Eco's kick and Silvia's punch hit Ash at the same time.

"……”

After Ash stumbled back to his seat, the meeting continued to proceed as usual, like nothing had happened.

"President…... I would like to ask. "

Silvia asked.

"What is the problem. Silvia?"

"Just now you say that Jessica has taken you as her rival...... Is her ability that amazing? Jessica Valentine this is the first time I heard her name…..."

Silvia has a good reason to doubt.

Rebecca is not just only an Ark Dragner but also the president of the school’s student council.

She is undoubtedly the strongest Dragner in the whole Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Even the Professors or the practical skill instructors can only admit defeat when it comes to Rebecca.

To take Rebecca as her rival. No matter how you think of it, it is not normal.

"Jessica ...... in fact, is very motivated for her own self improvement, but she is always futile or she is very persistent in doing things that are meaningless. I cannot deny that she is one of those ‘who are able to overcome all kinds of hardships if you just put in effort' ...... "

To be able to be praised by Rebecca, regardless of her written performance<ref>Could probably mean test results.</ref>, maybe she is someone who really has some skill.

"In conclusion. The SKFC, that Jessica leads, wants to expose the true identity of the 'Silver Knight'. If their objective was only this we can leave them be. But what they desire is not just this, when given the opportunity, they would like to obtain the sperm of the ‘Silver Knight’."

"Spe-Spe……!"

Silvia suddenly blushed. Her movement become very unnatural. Seeing her being so shy, Ash also cannot help but feel embarrassed.

"What is it that they want? Is it delicious?"

Unlike Silvia… Eco is only confused.

"Nothing. You need not know such a thing." Ash said.

"Even you know, as your owner, is it not logical that I don't know!"

"What sort of reasoning is that?!!!!"

"Hmph, even if you do not want to tell me, I still have the dragweiss!"

Eco, like entering a trance, suddenly closes her eyes.

For dragons, that have a longer history than humans, can search for information dating back centuries.

"Wha ... What!"

After just a few seconds… Eco’s whole face is blushing as if she was on flame.

At the same time she turned very angry.

"Are you kidding!? Ther-There are actually such a large number of female animals trying to access…... this guy’s…... Spe-Spe......? That’s why I said… Humans are stupid and ignorant fools!"

Eco seems to be ashamed and embarrassed to enunciate that word. It is rare that Eco is blushing exactly like Silvia.

"Hmph…... it seems that the word 'obscene' needed to be added at the back of 'stupid and ignorant'.
"This human sounds really nasty!"

"Stupid, ignorant and obscene humans!"

"You do not need to repeat! It is hard to pronounce!"

"Then you should kneel down and apologise. I will remove the word 'obscene'. I’ll let you represent all mankind. This opportunity is not easy to get you know!?"

[[Image: Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p064.jpg |thumb|Stupid, ignorant and obscene humans!]]
"I will not represent this!"

Ash angrily complained, but Rebecca coughed loudly with "Ahem".

Suddenly back to reality, cold sweats emerge from Ash.

Disregarding the meeting, Ash and Eco, both of them are arguing.

"So-sorry ...... Hey you come and sit down."

"Hmph. Don’t you order me......!"

Eco wanted to sternly reject, but halfway she closed her mouth. While staring at Rebecca's face… Her expression was like she had seen a wild bear in the forest.

Followed by Eco, Ash's sight drifted towards Rebecca. Facing her. Ash felt the same chill in his spine.

"Are you satisfied?"

Even while Rebecca was smiling… Her eyes definitely are not smiling in the slightest.

"I- I understand ......"

Eco is reluctant to sit down on her seat. Perhaps her animal instinct makes her detect Rebecca unfathomable terror.

"Back to the main point, about SKFC, in all cases, we will be focusing and paying more attention to prevent them from finding out the identity of the ‘Silver Knight’."

Under Rebecca’s glare everyone nodded.

"But fortunately they thought ‘Silver Knight’ is an Ark Dragner, which Eco needs to be thanked for in making the Ark. So SKFC should be less likely to target Ash, who has not become a Dragner. Even I, until now, failed to fully understand how Eco managed that."

"Hmmm. Manage? It is good that you understand how great that is!"

As her previous fear disappears… Eco starts to act arrogant again.

"In short… Jessica is not a person who will easily give up, so you should be careful in this case. Anyway, the secret of the Valentine family, please do not expose it. After all that’s been her secret since her enrolment to this academy. It will be harsh on her if it is exposed…… Now back to the ‘main’ topic."

Rebecca places her elbows on the table with her fingers overlapping. Then she gently lift up her beautiful chin.

Ash notices that Rebecca is worrying about something.

How tough is the problem that Rebecca is facing now?

"The fact is…... I received a message….. The first princess of Lautreamont, Veronica Lautreamont, will come to Ansarivan to visit for a week."

After they heard this news, everyone knew the seriousness of this situation, suddenly they all turn solemn and silent, but right at the next second……

"Noooooo…….!"

The Silvia is moaning abnormally.

"Anything. Silvia?"

Rebecca is concerned about her but Silvia did not answer.

"An-Anee-ue sh-she’s...... A tyrant...... "

The change in Silvia startled the others.

"Is she really coming to Ansarivan?"

Silvia is trembling and turns pale as if the end of the world is coming. She huddles up and hides under the table. She is shaking with her hands protecting her head.

The usual Silvia who is always energetic in reality has a timid side–– Even when Ash had already knew this fact it is still hard to imagine that Silvia would act like this.

"Are you alright? Princess."

When looking under the table, at the same time, Ash remembers the nick name of the first princess Veronica Lautreamont…...

She is called the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’.

"The Legend of Silver Knight ~A.S.B.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Epilogue

2014-03-07T09:41:01Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, phrases and grammar. Caption.

==Epilogue==
===Part 1===
"Haa… Haa…”

Anya had run out from Beowolf just before Eco had totally crushed it. She then hid in the secret passage underneath Fontaine City.

Although Dr. Hoffman and the rest of the crew managed to escape, they were spotted by the guards and quickly captured.

Anya, by relying on her whip to knock out the guards, was the only person who managed to successfully hide in the underground secret passage. Still, she had received a great mental shock.

It was about Milgauss’s intentions.

Even when Beowolf had been crushed, Milgauss still cannot be seen.

Even though they had prearranged many different types of communication methods in case of any emergency, Milgauss didn’t even try to contact her. ''Could it be that Milgauss was facing some kind of trouble?''

''Or- Am I just a something that has lost its value and was tossed off?''

''“*Sob*…*Hick*…”''

When she thought about the worst possible situation, she cried. Right now, Anya wanted to cry while shouting out loud.

At that moment, there were explosions of bright lights in front of her and Anya couldn’t see anything.

“…Urgh!”

When Anya realized they were flash bangs that were modified from the bright-dragon-crystal lamps––

“The rats of the Empire! We are the Foreign Force of the Knight’s Country! We will spare your lives if you choose to surrender! We will guarantee you the treatment of a prisoner of war according to the contents of the international agreement!”

A strict voice was echoing in the passage. She felt as if she had heard the voice somewhere before.

“That voice… Could it be!”

Anya while covering her face from shone by the lights, stared at the direction in front of her.

Just as Anya had expected, the girl was riding a Basilisk.

The military presence emitted by the girl was strong even though she looked like a child.

There were numerous strong guys that were beside her.

''If I am right, isn’t that girl the person who occupied the church and faked her name as ‘Avdocha the Convicted’ and wasn’t she arrested?''

''Why would someone who was guilty be leading the Foreign Force and guarding the Capital?''

''So the official announcement was a hoax?''

''No, right now, that is not important at all'' ––Anya shook her head.

She must try to escape.

“Either I try… or I die.”

Anya held the whip on her right arm and leaped with the intention to die.

===Part 2===
“Huu. Just as I thought… I must do everything my own.”

Avdocha, riding on the Basilisk, was mumbling something in dissatisfaction.

The girl’s skill was unexpectedly good and three of her subordinates had already been knocked out.

However, Avdocha was leading altogether eight subordinates and she herself was a veteran who was well known all over the world.

Thus, the winning side of this fight had already been decided right from the start.

“Back to the topic, how dare the Empire’s military use ''my'' people as their subordinates… Tsk.”

After Avdocha alighted down from Kuu-chan, the Basilisk, she walked towards the girl who was lying down on the ground.

The girl had lost consciousness and was not moving at all.

Avdocha used a bright-dragon-crystal lamp to have a closer look on the girl’s face.

No matter how she looked at, her appearance, her tribal wear and her whip that she had chosen as her choice of weapon, all of them were the style of a Tantalos. Anyhow, Avdocha was born in the mountain areas and she knew them well.

“Huh! This muffler…?”

Avdocha was attracted to the girl's muffler.

“The patterns on this muffler… Could it be!”

Avdocha immediately had the muffler removed from the girl’s neck.

She was inspecting the muffler.

After a while, she saw some Tantalos words that had been sewn on the muffler.

''-Shamara Kiltzkaya.''

“Is this girl my…!”

Avdocha was looking at the girl’s face carefully.

The girl right in front of her. ––She has some of the features of her long lost sister.

===Part 3===
The next morning.

Today was the scheduled day for the continental congress-‘Elysium’, but it had been canceled due to the recent incident.

The organizer Raquel IV had officially announced the cancellation of the continental congress ‘Elysium’.

Apart from that, Paladin Oswald had been ordered to investigate the previous night’s incident. Then she left with sacredship Esperanza.

Many people were amazed by her leadership even though she is still just nine year old.

Right after Esperanza had left the Knight’s country, the rest of the people had started to return to their own country. Only Klaus Viderhausen, whose airship the Beowolf had been destroyed, returned to the borders in a horse carriage.

What will be the next action taken by Zepharos Empire?

Also how are they going to deal with Eco who is the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor family’s Princess–– It seemed that the Knight’s Country government’s days of headaches will still continue.

===Part 4===
Ash and Eco were still staying in Fontaine Palace’s guest room.

“It huuurts!”

Although he was just discharged by the hospital a few days ago, he was now again forced to recover while lying on his bed.

Strictly speaking, Ash didn’t suffer any serious injuries and the ‘Seikoku’ that was spread all over his entire body had turned back to normal.

According to the palace’s doctor the only sentence he said was–– "Ash is suffering from muscle fatigue."

That’s right, Eco’s first original Ark was an armour that bears a strong side effect. Those prior mimics that Ash wore couldn’t even be compared with this.

“…”

Eco was sitting beside the bed and was worrying about Ash who was currently sleeping.

It was probably a result of the incident but Eco, who always acted high and mighty, was actually sitting politely, quietly and elegantly.

Looking at Eco’s expression, Ash’s heart was beating faster.

As long as she kept quiet, she will be one of the most beautiful girls.

Eco, while showing a worrisome expression, doesn’t only look like a graceful white lilium––but also looked more mature.

“Hey… Are you really alright?”

Eco was asking while worrying.

Although Ash’s body was still hurting, he managed to squeeze out a smile.

“This is the third time you ask this question, don’t you realize?

“But… You are… Like I thought, it was all my fault––”

Ash immediately interrupted Eco.

“The doctor said it was just muscle fatigue and it has nothing to do with you. It was because that I don’t have enough training. When we return to Ansarivan, I will train my body more… Also… I should be the one apologizing to you.”

Ash made up his mind and sat up straight. Although the pain was unbearable from his waist to his back, he still held on to it.

“Hold on, you shouldn't be getting up, right!?”

As if to keep Eco quiet, Ash touched Eco’s horn.

“…!”

Eco’s body was responding to it but she had no intention of running away. She allowed Ash to touch her.

Ash kept on touching to surface of her horn.

“Sorry… It was my fault.”

The blow from holy sword Excalibur had caused some after effect, even to Eco who had turned back into a girl.

There was now a dent in one of her horns.

While Ash was touching her horn… Eco, while being worried, said:

“T-That’s nothing… It is just a small dent. I am sure that will immediately grow back.”

“Really?

“Don’t you look down on a dragon's recovering strength!”

“I see… That’s great.”

Ash could finally forget about his worries.

''I know it, only round and shiny horns fits Eco best.''

When he was thinking about that, Ash suddenly felt that Eco was cute.

Without a single warning, he hugged Eco.

“Hold…!”

Eco was blushing, but she didn’t resist, on the other hand, she embraced Ash. Her smell was nice and Ash could clearly hear the sounds of a child's heart beat.

Eco, being hugged by Ash with both hands, found her body heating up. Her face looked as if smoke was coming out from it.

Seeing her embarrassed looks, Ash hugged Eco even harder.

“I am your knight. No matter what happened, this fact will never change. That is why from today onwards––”

“…I hate that. I can never bring myself to like that!”

Ash was stunned by the unexpected answer.

“I am happy that… I am your Pal… And. You are my knight… But…”

Eco was embarrassed and stuttered.

“B-But… I hate this. I cannot be satisfied with just this! Even though I am not sure why, I know that I just can’t accept this!”

Eco was trying her best to explain to Ash.

“…I have searched the dragweiss regarding this feeling and I still don’t know anything… Do you know what is it?”

“T-That’s…!”

Her watery scarlet eyes was passionately looking at Ash

There were also her pearl white teeth and her shining pink lips.

Unknown to him, Ash was attracted to those lips.

“Eco…”

Ash was speaking as if he was moaning and focused his sight on Eco’s face.

Eco probably knew what Ash was thinking and closed her eyes.

Ash too had closed his eyes and slowly, slowly moved his face closer.

Suddenly- ''‘Bang!’'' and the door swung open.

“Hey! Even when you are still a patient... How shameless can you be!” Silvia was shouting at the top of her voice upon entering.
[[Image:SnRK V04 259.jpg|thumb|Hey! Even when you are still a patient… How shameless can you be!]]

Seeing that Ash and Eco were hugging each other, she stood still on her ground. The other person, besides the angry Silvia, was Lucca.

She had preserved herself from the danger of being blown off from the strong winds. This is what would one expect from the genius from the Eckbald.

Lucca remained silent. She was looking at Ash with her purple crystal like eyes.

“…Beast!”

However, obscene words came from the delicate and pretty face.

“W-What did you say!”

Ash felt that his face were on fire and let go of Eco.

“What, tsk…!”

Eco who was also red in the face and crawled down from the bed.

“B-Before that… why are you here?”

Ash asked politely but Silvia remained angry.

“Of course we heard that you were hurt and was sleeping so I personally took my time to visit you! How dare you say… "Why am I here!"”

“Waaa! Sorry…!”

Silvia was pressuring Ash. However, Ash indeed had said something unnecessarily and must reflect on it.

“O-One more thing… Prince Julius…”

When he saw Silvia… Ash remembered about Julius. Anyway, since they are siblings, their looks are a little similar.

Julius had personally piloted Silvanus to allow Ash to ride on Eco. In the end, Ash remembered that Silvanus crashed and there was an explosion.

Just by thinking about Julius’s death, Ash felt that he had trouble breathing. To Silvia, she can finally meet her brother after ten years, but…

“––Why are you talking about me?”

At that moment, a man appeared from the semi closed door. Ash was shocked.

“Prince Julius…!?”

At that instant, Ash thought that he had seen a ghost.

However, the person who walked into the room was Julius himself. But he continued to wear his mask, which is probably because it was inappropriate for him to move around and show his face.

“You are alright! But how did you escape…?”

Upon hearing Ash’s question, Julius replied with a wry smile.

“When Silvanus lost control, I jumped out with a parachute. I was just moments away from dying.”

“I see… That’s great.”

Even though Ash was no longer worrying, Julius in turn showed a worrisome look.

“Now is not a time to be celebrating. I clearly felt that Mordred’s spirit was escaping towards the east…”

“…what you are trying to say is?”

“He is probably in Chevron Kingdom now. Don’t you even think that he has been destroyed. The war between Avalon and Nehalennia is still far from over.

“How is that…”

After listening to Julius’s explanation, Ash felt that he had received a blow.

The blow that Ash dealt was not to kill Mordred but to take back Eco’s body from him.

Eco probably saw that Ash was worrying and stared at his face and said his name.

“Ash…?”

“Nothing. Even if Mordred appears again, I will protect you–– I swear.”

As if to not let Eco remain frightened, Ash smiled.

Eco immediately blushed and lowered her head.

Ash while patting her head looked at the scenery outside.

Even though a shocking incident had happened yesterday, today’s sky was unusually clear.

…The problems waiting to be solved were like mountains.

''Mordred who escaped to Chevron Kingdom.''

''Zepharos Empire who declared that their huge airship was destroyed by the Knight Country's huge dragon.''

''And also the long history of the war between Avalon and Nehalennia…''

Ash nearly fainted just from thinking about all these problems.

''In short, I would like took take a good rest in Ansarivan–– The rest of the problems can be solved later''. Ash made a wish.

"The Knight of ECO IV" is closed.
<noinclude>

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

{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 8|Chapter 8]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi:Volume 5 Novel Illustrations|Volume 5 Novel Illustrations]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 8

2014-03-07T09:36:03Z

Aoi uchuu: A space.

==Chapter 8 - Avalon's Imperial Princess==
===Part 1===
In armory of the Zepharos mothership Beowolf––under Dr. Hoffman’s command the battle is in full swing.

Eco was naked and floating amid the magic guided device–– Inside ‘Yggdrasill’s’ capsule. There are also several groups of technicians working around her. This was out of Anya’s area of understanding. She could only stand by the wall and watch silently.

But, she understood well the pain that Eco was feeling.

The cold voice was followed by its echo when it was reflected on the metal body.

“The cartridge has been filled. Prepare for launching.”

“The countdown starts now. Ten, nine, eight… Three, two, one-.”

“Launching compressed magic!”

A red beam shot out followed by a loud gun shooting sound. Anya felt that even the ship was vibrating.

“…!”

Then, there were air bubbles coming from Eco’s mouth. If not because of the liquid she was in, her scream would definitely be heard.

Anya couldn’t bear to see Eco suffering and looked away.

Eco’s body had already taken at least ten shots of the compressed magic.

Eco regained her consciousness after the start of the experiment. At the beginning, she was struggling in the water, but ‘Yggdrasill’s’ capsule was not at all affected.

After repeatedly receiving of dozens of compressed magic bolts, she lost her strength.

Right now, she is just like the living dead. Her blank eyes were now lifeless and it was terrible. It was pure torture. Even so, the group of researchers led by Dr. Hoffman were not at all shaken and continued silently.

“There is no significant change on the appearance of α. There are no abnormalities on her respiratory system. No magic fluctuation can be seen.” Without realizing, the group of researchers started to refer Eco as α.

Eco is a human, a young dragon and also a living being––But this group of human had taken everything from her. To them, Eco was just experimental material α. Who knows if they want to remove their feeling of guilt by calling her with symbols… Anya secretly thought so.

At this moment, Dr. Hoffman’s voice is heard by Anya.

“Still no changes… It seems like we don’t have any more choices. Activate all the Millennium.”

Anya turned pale when she heard that.

This means that they had decided to utilize full power on ‘Yggdrasil’.

===Part 2===
“*Sob*… It was all… My fault. *Sob*…”

In the maid’s bedroom on the ground floor of the palace.

Prim was lying on the bed with her pillow wet with tears.

Only Ash and Silvia beside her bed. Cosette was standing by the door outside the room.

Prim cried while she told them about the whole incident.

Prim arrived at the ancient palace when she was chasing Eco, who was emotionally distressed and running away.

She had met a few suspicious people there.

Seeing the enemy suddenly attack, Eco appeared and became the bait to let Prim escape.

When Prim regained conscious, Eco was no longer there.

After hearing, Ash felt something suspicious.

“Why did you go to the ancient palace?”

“That’s because… It was my entire fault! It was my bad to say such things!”

“Prim“ Silvia said patiently. “Please stay calm. Compared to you... Ash is the one suffering the most.”

After being advised so by Silvia, Prim rubbed off her tears which started clearing up.

“You are right. Sorry…”

“Prim-san, please tell me everything before Eco was kidnapped!”

Prim nodded.

“I had no ill intention, it was just that… Ash-sama is a human and Eco is a dragon… So I thought that Eco would feel lonely after Ash-sama married with a human girl. The moment I told her that, Eco rushed out of the room.”

“What…!”

Who would have thought of this, Ash was speechless.

“Idiot! You… Why do you have to tell her this!”

Silvia was mad.

“If I am Eco… I will definitely feel hurt if someone told that to me! Even when Eco is a dragon, her thoughts are still those of a very young girl’s. She should know very well that her situation is special. Why was she born as a human? Why was she not born as a dragon… If I am Eco, I might even never feel secure.”

“Princess…”

Ash looked on in surprise at Silvia who was able to keen Eco's thoughts.

“Recently, she had gotten used to the school life. She was also being loved by everyone as the student council’s mascot. Even so, to Eco, the only person she could trust in… Is no other than Ash.”

“And I… Have said something terrible…”

“Strictly speaking, Eco is still a young dragon who is not even a year old. Can’t you be a little more indirect in your––”

“Forget it, Princess. Right now, we could never solve the problem even after lecturing Prim-san. What’s more, if they had this planned, no matter what Prim-san said, Eco would still have been kidnapped.”

“…You are right. But how are we going to rescue Eco?” Silvia nodded.

She was in agreement with Ash.

“Prim-san… Could you describe those people who attacked?”

Ash was praying while asking. His only clue is Prim being the witness.

“Err… They pretended to be the palace servants. But, they didn’t look like citizens of the Knight Country. For their skin color, it looked like they are the Tantalos…. Also, the person who attacked me is a short girl.”

“A Tantalos girl…!” Ash was feeling Déjà vu.

It was like he had found the last piece of puzzle in his memory.

“It was the girl who followed Milgauss!”

Ash’s fists were shaking. The world he was seeing was dyed in red. Even though he only had a feeling that Milgauss was the culprit, still, after making sure, he was still in rage.

“Since we know who the criminal is-”

Silvia immediately stopped Ash who intended to rush out from the room.

“Hold on, Ash! Where do you think you are going to?”

“The ballroom, of course! I want to settle thing with Milgauss!”

“Keep your calm! Do you think that Milgauss will admit it even after you find and confront him?”

“…Maybe not.”

Ash turned speechless.

Silvia was right, no matter how emotional he became, Eco still wouldn’t be able to return safely.”

Just as if she was trying to have Ash cooled down, Silvia made a suggestion in a calm voice:

“Don’t you think that this is a good time to save Eco when Milgauss is busy with the masquerade?”

“What do you mean?”

“Milgauss couldn’t even be bothered by an activity with long history such as this continental congress and will do anything just to capture Eco. Even when I don’t know what his intentions are, but capturing Eco alive is their priority. I am sure that their lackeys won’t do anything to harm Eco when the mastermind is absent.”

After listening to Silvia’s analysis, Ash gave a breath of relieve.

“The problem remains is, where is Eco’s location. Since Ash’s ‘Seikoku’ is not reacting, it means that Eco was being hidden in an enclosed place. For example something that could be a barrier to cut off magic… Anyway, it must be done with the proper equipment. It just can’t be a rally point that they have just constructed.”

“An enclosed place with proper equipment? That’s it, Milgauss has Klaus backing him up…”

Last evening, an airship flew past the evening sky…

The black ship that was waving the Empire’s flag proudly…

Ash remembered.

Ash and Silvia exchanged glances and shouted at the same time:

“Beowolf!”

===Part 3===
––W-Will… I die just like this…

Eco thought so.

The liquid in the capsule kept on rotating and Eco’s body was being swept along by it.

Every time her shoulders or waist touches the glass, her body will move slowly in the opposite direction.

It seems like the liquid was made of special materials. Luckily, it doesn’t affect her breathing. But after suffering a few shots from the magic device, her body turned numb.

This feeling is like an empty mind floating in mid air.

––If I could just… Continue sleeping… Then I won’t feel any pain…

Just when Eco thought so... A power, that surpassed all the previous ones, was released upon her.

“Noooooooooo…!”

Even though she thought that she shouted in pain, in truth they were just air bubbles coming out from her mouth.

A bright light flashes and the water churns rapidly. Just like being swallowed by a tsunami, her body kept on rotating and kept on hitting the glass around her.

––Wh… Why do I have to suffer this kind of pain.

It had passed the limit of her brain to just think of what they are going to do to her. She could only feel that her body had been injected with a vast amount of magic.

The pain she felt is just like her body being ripped open.

It felt like her organs were being messed up by someone.

-Urgh… It hurts…. It hurts…. I beg you all, please stop.

It is pointless no matter how she shouted in her mind, the magic was still being forced into the body. Eco’s body was jerking nonstop and she was struggling.

You might as well do me a favor by killing me––Eco gave up.

“…!”

At the next moment- The Necromancia’s slimy tentacles began attacking her from all directions.

Eco couldn’t understand. Where did those tentacles appear from in this enclosed environment?

The tentacles, which were wriggling like snakes, slowly snatched her freedom.

Her arms, waist, legs… were entangled by those tentacles. -Stop! This must be an illusion! It is this device that was making me hallucinate…!

Eco tried to stay conscious and opened her eyes widely.

At that moment, the tentacles disappeared.

The feelings of being entangled by those tentacles also disappeared.

However, not long after that, she lost focus and the tentacles appeared again and had her waist was surrounded.

In a blink of an eye, she was lifted by those tentacles.

-Stop!

[[Image:SnRK V04 183.jpg|thumb|Her arms, waist, legs… were entangled by those tentacles. -Stop! This must be an illusion! It is this device that was making me hallucinate…!]]

An abnormally thick tentacle was approaching Eco’s face.

Eco kept her teeth closed with her might. If she was to be careless, the tentacle will surely wriggle into her mouth. Eco had Goosebumps just by think about it.

Eco initially wanted to ask for Ash’s help. She hoped that he could save him from this hell.

However, from the point she woke up in this device, she couldn’t even summon Ash.

Her Astral Flow with Ash had also been cut off.

The loss of her communication had put her in fear.

Eco was shocked that the loss of her connection with Ash would put her in such great fear.

––I am really an idiot. I only knew what is precious to me after I had lost it.

This experience had made her wanted to treasure Ash much more.

That’s right, without Ash, I can’t do anything… I am really a good for nothing.

-Don…

At that instant, there was something moving in her body.

===Part 4===
“Something is wrong! The magic indicator is showing an abnormal value!”

“We found an unknown magic source! Its power is increasing!”

“We have lost control of ‘Yggdrasill’! It ignored the emergency stop signal!”

The continuous bad news had made Dr. Hoffman turn pale.

The laboratory was as if in a fire and a tense atmosphere was spreading.

All the technicians now carried a panicked look while they were busy dealing with the buttons and controls under their hands.

“What happened…?”

Anya who was looking from aside wondered.

Basically, there presently seemed nothing abnormal with Eco, who was in the capsule.

Even though she was shot by the high power compressed magic and had struggled like she was having a nightmare, yet nothing dramatic had happened.

But the indicator was still indicating an abnormal value. Also, they were losing control of ‘Yggdrasill’.

The situation had suddenly become tense.

Even the emergency trigger had been triggered and the bell was ringing loudly.

-Dong!

At that instant, Anya heard something from the ground.

“What is that… Sound?”

As if to prove that it was not an illusion, ‘Yggdrasill's’ magic indicator exploded.

“Uwaa!”

Something groaned and then many of the surrounding devices started to explode with red flames. More of the technicians were now abandoning their posts, running away in fear.

“Don’t panic! Keep calm!”

Dr. Hoffman shouted but not even a single soul was listening.

Because in everyone’s sights was Eco.

Although she was still caged in the capsule. Eco’s body was now glowing with a dim light.

Even Anya was captivated by the sight in front.

“Dr. Hoffman! Let’s escape!” A young researcher advised Dr. Hoffman.

The rest of the researchers were agreeing with him and anxiously looked at Dr. Hoffman.

Anya left the wall and walk towards Dr. Hoffman’s back.

“Dr. Hoffman, I also think that it would be wise if we escape now.”

“No!” Dr. Hoffman yelled.

Anya was stunned by Dr. Hoffman’s aura. She had thought of him as a kind old man and was forced to act cruel as a researcher. Who would know that he would have such a stubborn side.

“What are you thinking! Even an outsider like me knows that this is dangerous! Isn’t there Millennium attached to that device too?”

What Anya was actually worried about ''is'' the existence of the Millenniums. Just in case the Millenniums explode… Anya was thinking. Let alone Beowolf, it is not even surprising if entire capital city of Fontain disappeared from the maps forever.

However, Dr. Hoffman shook his head slowly.

“…I won’t. That will not happen. The energy in the Millenniums has run dry.”

“What?”

“All the magic energy… Was fully absorbed by experimental material α.”

“-!”

Anya looked at Eco dumbstruck.

The intensity of Eco’s light was getting stronger, past the level where one couldn’t look at her directly. Those ‘Dong’ sounds had become clearer.

Even though there were no dangers of the Millennium exploding, it doesn’t mean that they were free from danger. Eco right now is seen as the bomb.

Later, there was the loud sound of something breaking.

Different from the normal explosions, that explosion sounds like it was originated from something being applied pressure on.

“α… α is escaping!”

A researcher shouted.

The capsule containing Eco was now in ruins and the liquid was flowing out like waterfall.

Eco can be seen floating with her eyes closed- in a short moment, she disappeared. What’s left is only stardust like magic particles floating in the air.

“She… Disappeared…?”

Anya dumbstruck, murmured alone.

===Part 5===
“Hey… Somethings wrong with Beowolf!?”

When Maestro Lancelot reached the landing space at a height of twenty meters, Silvia shouted:

“That is…!”

Ash who was riding on Lancelot behind Silvia widened his eyes.

The sacred airship Esperanza, airship Crown Solas and air ship Silvanus were lined up together.

On the other hand, the huge airship Beowolf was parked quite some distance away from the trio.

The suspicious thing was the black smoke emerging from Beowolf.

Could it be a fire?

If Eco is inside… Ash was too scared to think about it.

“Urgh…!”

At this moment, Ash felt a burning sensation from his left hand.

Although he nearly screamed in pain, he managed to tolerate with it.

It felt like suddenly putting his hand into a furnace.

“Is everything alright, Ash!?”

Silvia was worried about him and turned around and asked, but Ash couldn’t even reply because of the pain.

The ‘Seikoku’ engraved on his left arm was slowly moaning.

A while later, there was a glaring light coming out from his left arm and his sleeve up to his shoulders was burned off. Even the bandage was burned into pieces.

In a blink of an eye, Ash’s ‘Seikoku’ on his left arm was exposed.

“Wha…!”

The ‘Seikoku’ on his hand was glowing with a different light intensity from time to time.

Ash was panicking.

It will be alright if it was just glowing but the heat and the pain sensations had no intention of stopping.

It felt that his left arm is going to explode anytime.

“Hey… What is actually happening?”

Silvia was in shock while holding the reins which was probably caused by the fright she experience from seeing Ash’s ‘Seikoku’s’ reaction.

“I don’t know… But I am now sure that I am again connected to Eco!”

Just like responding to Ash’s left arm, there was an object glowing in the sky.

“Ash! Look upwards!”

Silvia who noticed the abnormality was pointing at the sky. Ash too had noticed.

There was something glowing on the sky above the landing area.

“That is…”

The mysterious light was floating in the sky as if it was decorating it.

On the other hand, the full moon didn’t look as charming as before.

By taking a closer look, it was an egg with beautiful flow lines.

There was a big emblem that was carved on the pearl like egg. At a first glance, it looked like a royal emblem.

To be more specific, that emblem looked like Ash’s ‘Seikoku’.

-Don… Don… Don…

There was a frighteningly deep beating sound from the egg.

The confusing part is, it moved with the same rhythm as the glow on Ash’s ‘Seikoku’.

Ash immediately understood.

“I couldn’t be more wrong… Eco is in that egg!”

“How is that possible? What are you talking about…?”

“Princess, I beg you. Please take me there!”

“…Alright. I believe in you. Fly Lancelot! Fly higher!”

But Lancelot ignored her orders. It stayed at the twenty meters height and looked at the egg with its head up.

“Hei… Lancelot? Anything wrong? Fly immediately!”

Even though Silvia shouted strictly, Lancelot still ignored her orders. On the other hand, it did an emergency landing at a corner of the landing space.

“What are you doing? Are you disobeying my orders, Lancelot!”

“…It is useless, Princess. It seems that Lancelot has its own reason.”

“What did you say?!”

Silvia looked at Ash with an imposing manner.

“Do you know what Lancelot was thinking?”

“…I am not sure. It was probably affected by the ‘Seikoku’. I don’t know why, but I could somehow understand what Lancelot was thinking.”

After Ash and Silvia were forced to alight from Lancelot unwillingly, Lancelot again spread its wings and shoot up into the sky.

Looking at Lancelot’s direction, Ash found out something important.

“Princess! There are more and more… Maestros gathering together!”

Groups of Maestros were gathering from all directions. It had become an amazing night view created by the light from the Maestro’s magic.

One by one the Maestros appeared and gathered at the corner of the sky.

For Maestros, whose total numbers were already small to begin with, to gather together, it was unheard of even in the old times––

===Part 6===
“What is actually happening…?”

Lancelot left its master and flew off on its own.

Although this had given Silvia a great blow, the view of the night sky still gave her a deep impression.

Silvia could clearly hear the ‘Pssshh’ sounds of the beating of the wings.

When she had personally realized the dream like view, all her attention had been captured by it.

That egg even had wings growing out of it and feathers with silver lights were falling off. It was like snows that beautify the night sky.

Then- there was a crack from the egg shell.

The winged egg split into two-

“Uoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!”

A roar as if it was a horn announcing the end to the world could be heard all over.

Silvia who couldn’t look straight into the glaring light closed her eyes. When she reopened her eyes, the winged egg was no longer there. It was replaced by something that was not of this world.

To describe this thing with a word will be either – GOD or DEVIL.

However what Silvia said was insulting.

“What a scary monster…!”

[[Image:SnRK V04 193.jpg|thumb|What a scary monster…!]]

“Stop! You are not allowed to say that!”

Ash shouted and brought Silvia back o her sense.

“That must be...Eco. I can feel it... I can feel it!”

“Sorry, Ash...”

Although Silvia was annoyed by her gaffe, she still couldn’t believe that it was Eco.

Later, Eco landed slowly while being surrounded by numerous Maestros.

Although the pink fur and the red eyes is similar to Eco, but her horns looked sharp and fierce and doesn’t at all look like Eco’s round stubs.

Also, there was a third horn in between the two horns. It was like a unicorn’s horn and stood up straight.

Her wings, which were spread out widely, were different from a normal Maestro’s. It made one think of an angel’s wings.

Followed by a loud bang, Eco landed.

Eco lifted up her gigantic hind leg up high- And The large airship that had been the pride of the Empire was squashed in a few seconds.

With the conning tower being right at the middle, Beowolf had been squashed into a V shape and it immediately exploded.

Yet, Eco was not at all affected.

Eco probably lost interest in Beowolf and tried to wriggle her long neck. She slowly lowered her center of gravity.

The target of her scarlet eyes was the window of the tall Fontaine Palace.

===Part 7===
––An unidentified flying object appeared above the capital and all the Maestros in the country disobeyed their masters’ orders and gathered together.

Veronica, who received the emergency report, brought Glenn, the captain of her escorts, along with her to the ballroom at the highest floor of the palace.

Anyway, there were important guests in the ballroom that gathered from all over the continent. No matter what happened, she must protect their safety in the name of the pride of the Knight’s country.

At the same time, she must bring back her father Oswald with her. He had most probably changed his appearance and was drinking while mingling in the crowd.

While running on the long corridor, Veronica questioned Glenn:

“Did you too lose contact with your pal?”

“It totally ignored my summons and ignored my request to present me my Ark. From the looks of the current situation, where all the Maestros are gathering in the capital’s sky, it probably has something to do with the unidentified flying object.”

“Then, our pride, the Holy Dragners of Lautreamont can be considered no more. If the Empire attacked us at this moment, without the protection of the Maestros, this country will fall in just a single night.”

For the inability to defend... “I don’t have an excuse to offer.” <ref>面目次第も有りません have also the meaning of ‘It is a shame I don’t have the power to…’</ref>

Glenn lowered his head somberly.

===Part 8===
When Veronica and Glenn arrived at the ballroom the palace music, along with the party atmosphere of the nobles, had disappeared.

Most of the guests were by the glass window and were looking downwards in shock. From there they can view the landing tarmac for the airships.

“That’s…!”

Veronica was also looking downwards through the glass window.

“It is dangerous to stand beside the window, Princess!”

Glenn warned her but Veronica ignored him.

There was a change in the landing area.

A living object glowing with a silver light suddenly landed there.

''-Uoooooooooooooooooo…!''

It was immediately followed by a loud roar that will make one feel like covering the ears.

It was stated in the previous report that ‘an unidentified flying object that looked like a huge egg’, but it seemed that the huge egg had hatched when Veronica was on her way.

The unbelievable thing is, that huge monster had easily split the Empire’s huge airship Beowolf into two with just one stomp.

Right at this moment, there was a man from the crowd was making a fuss.

“Ooh, what is happening! How can a dragon of the Knight’s… Destroy the Empire's most advance airship which is our country’s pride! I don’t think that this is some simple matter!”

The man's words caused an uproar in the ballroom.

Until a moment ago, everyone had just found out that this monster is a dragon.

Talking about a dragon, everyone will think about Lautreamont Knight Country.

“Is that person… Klaus Viderhausen! He is obviously trying to cause a stir!”

Veronica angrily scolded and glared at the Empire’s young noble.

However, there was a man who stupidly tried to argue with Klaus.

“Nonsense! That monster had nothing to do with our country!”

Although the man was wearing a lion shaped mask, judging from his plum body, Veronica immediately knew who he is.

He is her father, Oswald.

“Klaus-dono! This is the truth! That monster has nothing to do with us! Please believe in me!”

“Hu… What you said was not at all convincing. Anyway, everyone here is a witness.”

Klaus was not even bothered by Oswald.

It was because what Klaus said is true. A huge dragon that suddenly appeared and with no warning had destroyed the Empire’s airship right in front of everyone here.

Nothing could be worst than this.

Chevron Kingdom and Zepharos Empire, who had never see each other eye to eye, were originally going to discuss about furthering peace between them in tomorrow’s continental congress ‘Elysium’.

To Chevron Kingdom and its ally Lautreamont Knight Country this should be a historical event.

“Stop… Let alone the Emperor, not even one royal from the Empire attends. It is a total joke. The Empire has never wanted peace––”

Just as Veronica finished her sentence, there were people screaming from everywhere.

Everyone was in a panic.

All the guests who were wearing their mask, everyone, including the musicians and the waiters, were trying to escape.

Apart from Oswald, who was now crying, Klaus, who had just previously put the blame on the Knight Country, was also fleeing.

“What…!”

Veronica who immediately turned around was also sweating tremendously.

There was a pair of scarlet eyes looking into one of the many palace windows.

She spent a few seconds to figure out that the dragon had stretched its neck and was looking into Fontaine Palace.

“Glenn, if I try to slash the pair of eyes with my huge sword… Do you think I have any chance of winning?”

“Please forgive my rudeness… Even if Princess... You are no match for it.”

Glenn told the truth directly.

"Why must you be this honest?"

Veronica was sulking while she confronted the dragon eyes.

The round eyes.

''It looked like a baby’s pairs of eyes. Although it looked naïve, if this monster just rubbed its nose on the palace walls... Fontaine Palace will turn into dust in seconds. Furthermore, it will be a hill full of bricks and corpses…'' Veronica could still manage a smile.

Even though she was thinking of such scenario.

“Kuku… So this is of feeling of my life being controlled by others. I praise you, my child!”

Seeing that Veronica had no intention of escaping, Captain Glenn advised her in panic:

“Princess, please retreat!”

“I mustn’t. Some of the guests are still here.”

Veronica looked around the empty ballroom.

There was a man with a mask standing at the middle of the dance floor.

The man was wearing a elegant suit. However his hair color was like a cloth stained with blood.

He is obviously the guy in the reports–– Milgauss.

Veronica looked at him in admiration.

“Hmm… You indeed look a little like Julius. Remove your mask!”

To her surprise, he actually did it. He could be seen silently removing his mask and threw it to a side as if he doesn’t need it anymore.

“-!”

Veronica’s eyes widened.

The handsome face beneath the mask was undoubtedly Julius of ten years later who had now become a seinen.<ref>青年, man with age range between 20-
30.</ref>

He no longer had the rebellious feel with him in his teenage years and was replaced by a feeling of a weapon that had been well polished.

“So you are Julius…!”

As if to sweep away her worries, Julius walked to the side of the window. At the same time, the dragon’s face disappeared as if it had lost interest with the empty ballroom.

Julius was standing by the window looking at the huge dragon.

“Kukuku… I have been waiting for this moment for a long time!”

That sinful voice and the devil like smile made Veronica feel uneasy.

Glenn took a step forward as if trying to ask on behalf of Veronica.

He unsheathed his sword that was on his waist.

“You can’t be Julius, no? My friend would never show such a malicious smile."

“Oh, Glenn McGuire! I remembered you are one of the guys that appeared in Julius’s memories. It should be suitable to use ‘it has been a long time’ in this situation, don’t you think so?”

“What do you mean!”

“You still don’t get it? This body is indeed Julius’s. However, I am not Julius... Although I can peek into Julius’s memories anytime."

“What is happening…?”

Veronica was curious but it was not bothered by the man.

“Kneel! Quick! Look carefully! You are witnessing a historical moment!”

The man was acting like a holy man in the religious painting. He spread his arms widely and declared his name.

“I am Mordred! The descendant of the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family.”

Vreonica couldn’t believe what she had just heard.

The Maestro that Julius sacrificed his life to kill is named Mordred. It is also Julius’s Pal.

''Is it possible that Mordred has taken over Julius’s body?''

In regards of Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family–– Veronica had only recently heard about this name.

The ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’ that Dr. Angela Cornwell found in Willingham Mausoleum.

Basically, Veronica had read through the copy of the book.

She recalled a part of the book.

“…After the wise dragon Inbroke, two major bloodlines were formed. They are the Avalon’s holy dragons emperor family and the Nehalennia’s dark dragons king family. An endless war started between these two families. After the members of the two families reincarnated, they will encounter each other, hate each other and kill each other.”

The person in front had introduced himself as the descendant of the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family.

Then, who is the person who should be representing the descendant of the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family-?

At this moment, Veronica stopped thinking because of Glenn’s shout.

“So I see… You are the root of evil! I knew that Julius didn’t turn crazy! He will always be loyal to his beliefs and tried to have you removed even when he had to commit a crime in the Knight Country!... Return Julius to us!”

Followed by a shout, Glenn reduced their distance and there was a silver flash.

However, Mordred easily parried Glenn’s slash.

“Urgh!”

Glenn growled.

Morderd had stopped the high speed slash with only his index and middle finger.

Glenn could be seen standing still while holding his sword. No, that’s not the case, Veronica understands well.

It was not that Glenn was not moving, it was because that he was unable to move.

Mordred had overpowered Glenn with just two fingers.

“Hmph… I will let you experience the punishment for being disobedient to a ''god''." Mordred gave a cold smile

Immediately after, there was a flash.

“Gwaaa!”

Glenn was knocked up into the air while unable to even resist. He knocked into the wall hard and became unconscious.

Veronica didn’t even have the time to care about Glenn and stared at Mordred.

“…I don’t understand. As far as I know, you should have a good relationship with Julius. Didn’t you even present him with an ark?”

“Hmph, the one who has a good relationship with Julius is another me. That me who acknowledged Julius as its master and associated with him quite well."

“Another me? What are you talking about?”

“Let me generously explain it to you as your last gift before you die. There were two personalities in Mordred. If it was to be a human, it would be called a split personality.”

“What happened to the other personality?”

“It has disappeared together with the body. Ironically, although it was itself, Julius had originally planned to kill me. For my part, to prevent myself from dying, I sacrificed my body and changed into this spiritual form and inhabited Julius’s body.”

Upon saying that, Mordred looked out of the window.

Right beside the palace, the dragon was standing on its hind legs and was looking around curiously. It seemed to be troubled because it couldn’t understand what was happening.

Mordred declared to that dragon:

“Descendant of the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family, I will take that body of yours!”

“Now I understand, so this is what you planned…!”

At this stage. Veronica finally found out what Mordred is aiming for.

Mordred had once lost his body in the past when it was killed by Julius.

However, if it could take over the body of the descendant of the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family, it can once again be born as the strongest dragon…!

“That will never happen, Mordred!”

Veronica unsheathed the huge sword on her waist.

Even though she knew that he was not an opponent that she could win in a direct confrontation, she still couldn’t bear to watch idly from the side.

''I will kill Mordred together with Julius’s body before he can manage to take over Avalon’s body-'' Veronica rushed forward while thinking.

Even when it's her brother’s body that we are dealing with... She had no intention of showing any mercy.

But, before Veronica could land a hit on Mordred, suddenly, there was darkness emerging from his body and spread all over the ballroom.

“Urgh… What is this dark mist… My conscious…!”

The moment she was surrounded by the darkness, Veronica felt a strong feeling of vomiting and fainting.

===Part 9===
After struggling for some time in the darkness––without knowing what was happening–– The darkness had finally disappeared.

“Are you alright, Veronica?”

There was a guy who held out his hand to Veronica who was struggling to stand up.
[[Image:SnRK V04 207.jpg|thumb|To her surprise; Mordred, who should be busy with taking over Avalon’s descendent's body, is attempting to help her up.]]
“You…!”

There was killing intent in Veronica’s eyes.

To her surprise; Mordred, who should be busy with taking over Avalon’s descendent's body, is attempting to help her up.

However, there was no longer evilness on his face.

“You… Could you be Julius?”

“Ahh, that is me. You are still the same old you for not calling me ‘Anii-ue’.”

It seemed that, because Mordred was gone, Julius was able to take back his body.

“Of course… You F.O.O.L”

Upon hearing that Julius smiled, but he immediately returned back to his serious expression.

“Sorry, but now is not the time for us siblings to be arguing. Mordred's spirit has already inhibited Eco’s body. We have the obligation to defeat Mordred and protect this city.”

At that instant, Veronica felt a pain from her head as if she had just been struck.

“Hold on! Did you just say Eco? That huge dragon… is actually Eco?”

“I will explain the details to you later. Can you stand up?”

“Hmph… Whom do you think you are talking to!”

Using the huge sword as a walking stick, Veronica put all her effort into standing up. But, it was probably the side effect of inhaling in the darkness, in the end, she fell down again.

“Princess!”

The person who reached Veronica first was Glenn. Although he was badly injured, he had regained consciousness.

Glenn held on to Veronica and glared at Julius.

“Julius… I have numerous things that I want to tell you, but please allow me to tell you this first.”

“I can guess what you want to say but be my guest.”

While facing the calm Julius Glenn, with mixed feelings, shouted to Julius:

“You… Damn you!”

===Part 10===

Seeing that the Empire’s airship was easily crushed, the sacredship Esperanza and magicship Crown Solas flew off immediately.

Only the magicship Silvanus remained at its location overlooking the whole incident.

Although Silvanus had yet to attack Eco, Ash was still worried since it's captain is Veronica.

Even so, seeing that Silvanus still hasn’t made its decision, Veronica was probably not aboard the ship. They were most probably waiting for Veronica’s orders.

On the other hand, if Veronica had boarded the ship, there is a high chance that she will issue an attack on Eco. To protect the capital, Veronica will make this decision without any hesitation. Anyway, Silvanus' fire power is not something that can be ignored.

“I… I will protect Eco!”

Ash made up his mind and rushed forward.

“Hold on, Ash. Do you want to be crushed!”

Silvia blocked Ash with her arms spread.

“Please move aside, Princess! Who will protect Eco if I don’t!”

“Please keep your calm! Even so, what can you do!? How are you going to ride Eco who has just turned into... that? What’s more, what are you going to do to ride on Eco?”

“I…”

Silvia was right. During the time when the Necromancia attacked Ansarivan, he received help from Silvia and Lancelot.

But luck was not on his side. Lancelot who he could place his hope on had not yet returned after it gathered with the rest of the Maestros. The group of Maestros were still circling above in the sky while waiting for something to happen.

To his relief, after Eco crushed Beowolf, she had not made any frightening actions. Although Ash was sweating tremendously during the time she looked into Fontaine Palace through the window, he was lucky that she turned away immediately.

Right now, Eco was only looking around and sniffing the buildings around her as if to figure out what was happening. In regards to what had happened to her body, she probably hasn’t figured it out yet.

“In conclusion, we must keep her as far from the town as possible. In the case that she enters into the town…"

Upon listening to Silvia’s assumption, Ash was shaking in fear.

Fontaine City has a population of around a million.

In another words, a million lives were now in Eco’s hands.

The severity of the current situation no longer only involved Ash and Eco.

“Guooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo…!”

At that moment, Eco was roaring in pain and started to struggle. There was a change in her appearance that was originally surrounded by a silver light.

Just like a white cloth that came in contact with ink, a black color was slowly taking over the white.

“…Eco? What’s happening!”

Ash could only look on as Eco transformed, without being able to do anything.

The change in her skin was only the start.

Her angle like feathers had transformed into a crow like wings.

The previous middle horn of the three horns had disappeared and her pair of horns had turned into spiral shape.

Also, her four limbs were growing at a fast speed. It will be better to describe her as a giant like body rather than a huge beast. That huge body gave a evil feeling.

Last of all, there were nine eyes on its face where each was glowing with red light.

“Nine eyes…!”

Ash remembered something.

Eco once had a nightmare.

In her dream, was Eco attacked by the nine eyed dragon…?

-Don!

At that moment Eco, who had turned into that black dragon, gave out a real dragon breath.

The flame emitted pierced the sky and scattered the dark clouds.

If this flame were aimed at Fontaine Palace or the town… Ash felt Goosebumps just by thinking of it.

“Silvia, so you are here!”

At this moment, there was a fierce voice coming from behind.

It was Veronica and Glenn when they turned around.

Glenn was badly injured and looked more like an old rag.

Apart from that–– There was another man following Veronica.

It was already surprising if a person was allowed to walk side by side with Veronica, yet it was far more surprising when they noticed the man’s hair color.

“Milgauss! Why are you here!”

Ash felt that he was having more Goosebumps all over his body. At the same time, he felt that Milgauss looked familiar. He remembered that he had seen that face in a portrait.

“Are you… Anii-ue?!”

Silvia shouted before Ash.

“Yeah. Although it is a little hard to believe, I am Julius. But I don’t have the time to give you any explanations right now. Firstly, we need to get rid of Mordred’s spirit from Eco’s body–– Ash...”

When his name was suddenly called by Julius, Ash became nervous.

The person in front of him really felt like Prince Julius Lautreamont.

Julius stepped forward and placed his hand on Ash’s shoulder.

“Only you, as Eco's master, can save her. Understood?”

“Yes. I thought of that myself too.”

Julius smiled.

“Good answer. I will take the responsibility to bring you to Eco.”

“But… How are you going to do it?”

“Don’t worry. We have a way for that.”

After he finished his sentence, Julius was actually pointing at... The Magicship Silvanus was resting at the far end of the landing area.

===Part 11===
“Ara. I don’t remembered inviting you here… Dark Dragon King Mordred.”

In the dragon workshop, Navi and Mordred were having a confrontation. She was sitting on her favorite chair with her legs crossed.

“Kuku. This is your last time to be able to be this relaxed.”

Mordred’s spirit had still maintained Julius’s voice. It was probably because it had inhabited Julius’s body for more than ten years… At least Navi thought so.

“I have taken over sixty percent of Eco’s body. It is only a matter of time before I can fully take control of her body. Avalon is losing.”

“…”

“Next, if I can fuse together with you, I can be fully awakened as the Dark Dragon King. Follow me. Even though you are now called Navi… But… I clearly know that you are not a normal navigator. You are the incarnation of the Dragweiss.”

“Ara. Just what I imagined of the Dark Dragon King. You have made quite some investigations on your own.”

“Fuse with me quickly. Give me the supreme knowledge. Strictly speaking, Avalon and Nehalennia have the same roots… I should also be qualified to fuse with you.”

“I don’t disagree with this.”

Upon hearing Navi’s answer, Mordred smiled.

“So you agree?”

“No I don’t. It is because I don’t like Nehalennia.”

“…What do you say?”

“I'm rooting for Avalon's Imperial Princess and her knight. Especially her knight… Ash Blake, he is far manlier than you.”

“Hmph… what a fox you are. Since it has came to this… I will use force-”

Suddenly, there were numerous tentacles coming from under Mordred’s legs. They were like snakes that had found their prey and attacked Navi.

===Part 12===
“I am sorry. Could everyone apart from Ash and I leave this ship?”

Upon stepping into Silvanus’s wheelhouse, Julius spoke coldly.

The crew––responsible for the control of the wheel, communications and the rest––turned around and looked Julius in confusion. Then they are all suddenly frightened, as is they see a ghost.

They shouldn’t be blamed since the prince, that should have been executed years ago, was standing in front of them and had asked them to do something unreasonable.

“Hold on… Prince Julius! What do you plan to do?”

Seeing that Ash was requesting an explanation, at the same time Julius answered, he turned around and looked at Veronica who was preparing to sit on the captain’s seat.

“I just don’t want the rest of the people to die with us. Veronica, I hoped that you could also help me by giving out the orders.”

“Do you think that I would even listen to that joke?”

“If the sister is stubborn, the elder brother will have to face some trouble.”

The next instant, with lightning speed, Julius seized Veronica from behind. He was holding a hidden gun. It was a mechanical gun that the military of the Empire used.

Julius even chose to place the tip at Veronica’s temple.

“There is not much time. You should try to listen to your brother sometimes, Veronica.”

“Are you kidding! Silvanus is my magicship. Don’t even think of always doing what you wanted to, Julius.”

“As I have said before, I am your brother. Maybe you are a perfect princess in front of our people, but I knew your Achilles heel. If you still disobey me, I will expose it in front of everyone.”

“What Achilles heel?”

“I know that you love Silvia. There are Silvia portraits in your room. The clothes that Silva wore, Silvia’s growth record, the poem that you wrote from missing Silvia and also Silvia’s human sized doll––”

“I- I promise! Keep quite immediately!”

Ash was in a shock. He had never expected Veronica to surrender easily.

“Everyone, leave the ship immediately! This is an order from Veronica Lautreamont! No one is allowed to disobey!”

It was a direct order from Princess Veronica-sama... All the crew members rushed out from the wheelhouse.

===Part 13===
When everyone had left the magicship, Julius operated Silvanus while sitting on the pilot’s seat.

With a sudden shake of the magicship, Ash held tightly onto the communication officer's former seat to avoid falling on the floor. Looking out through one of the round cockpit windows, the magicship was rising further and further away from the ground.

It was a totally different experience from sitting on a dragon. When this lump of metal was flying with passengers–– At the same time Ash was amazed, he also started to worry about crashing.

Julius, while he was piloting Silvanus, started telling Ash the whole story.

===Part 14===
Although what Julius said was hard to believe, basically, the dragons were separated into the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family and the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family. The two families had incarnated since the ancient times and are still fighting each other right unto this day.

Also, Eco is Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family’s descendant.

In another words, Eco is the Imperial Princess of the dragons.

“…Even after I had heard of such things, it is still hard for me to believe this. Eco, who has been living with me, is obviously a girl who sleeps late, a glutton and a hot headed girl...”

“I know how you feel. When I found out that my pal is the descendant for the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family, I was also astounded. In the beginning, I was also troubled by why was I chosen.”

Julius spoke on.

“Back to the topic, Avalon’s Imperial Princess’s body is really huge. Even though she is still a young dragon, she had this unbelievably huge size… It is totally unbelievable.”

After Julius pressed a few buttons on the dashboard, Eco’s body was shown on the huge screen in front.

Silvanus was three hundred meters above land and was looking at Fontaine city from the sky above.

From the screen, they can see Eco's back that had turned black because of being taken over by Mordred.

With its frightening spiral horns and nine eyes… It is exactly the image of the dark dragon king.

Eco, who was originally standing on two legs, was now standing on all four because of the pain caused by Mordred’s take over.

The worrying part is, Eco was not moving at all and yet she doesn’t look as if she is sleeping…

“Could it be that Eco is fighting Mordred?”

Julius shook his head in disagreement.

“It is impossible. Judging from the huge change of her body, I am afraid that… Eco doesn’t even have the strength to fight back.”

“Is it…”

“But not all hope is lost. In my opinion, Navi is also fighting against Mordred.”

“Navi?”

Why would he mention Navi’s name at such a time?

Before that, how would Julius know about Navi?

“Navi is the incarnation of the Dragweiss. If Navi could keep on fighting back, even after Mordred has fully taken over Eco’s body, he still couldn’t be fully awaken.”

“What do you mean?”

“Regardless of the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor or the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king, both of them must fuse with the Dragweiss to obtain its supreme knowledge, only then can they receive their true power. I believe that Mordred right now is trying his best to make Navi his own.”

“How come… you know so much about him?”

“That was because I shared the same body with Mordred. Just like what he did to me, to blend into the human society, I could also look into his memories.”

After hearing what Julius had said, Ash was still confused. However, there exists things that could be easily understood without the need for good brains.

“In another words, this is a great time for a counter attack while Mordred is busy dealing with Navi, right?”

“That’s right. This is our only chance for victory. If you can ride on Eco, by chasing Mordred’s spirit out, then you can save Eco and the capital together.”

Ash nodded in agreement to what Julius had said.

“I am willing to give it a try. No matter if it is Avalon or Nehalennia… I don’t think I even know what they mean. I only know that Eco is my pal.”

When Ash turned around and prepared to walk back to the hatch, Julius spoke from behind:

“Although I don’t know why you were chosen… But I am glad that you are Eco’s knight.”

===Part 15===
“Urgh…”

Ash arrived at the hatch and found that the winds were cold. Such temperatures were unheard of during the summer.

Ash was carrying a parachute–– This is a decision made by Julius and him beforehand.

When Silvanus had come close to Eco, Ash will jump off from the deck with the help of the parachute.

After landing, it's all up to Ash.

Basically, Ash had gone through the parachute landing practices at the academy.

Ash had never intended to become a soldier and had always thought that the academy was wrong to force them to go through those kinds of practices.

Anyway. The academy is not a military school–– But who would've expected that those practices would be useful right now.

“…Right there.”

Ash was looking down towards the ground from the bow and had located Eco’s back.

Although her fur had turned black the enormous amount of magic surrounding her were shooting off strong rays of light, he won’t have to worry about missing his target.

He must make use of the time that Navi was fighting against Mordred to land on Eco’s head.

Julius voice emerged from the magic communication device:

“Ash, you may jump anytime.”

“Roger that.”

Ash looked downwards for one more time.

For such a huge beast, her only blind spot will be her head.

Ash tried to imagine himself riding on Eco’s head.

To his surprise, it was not at all scary.

The ‘Seikoku’ on his left arm was getting warm and was flickering with dim light.

It felt as if his ‘Seikoku’ was urging him to move quickly.

Suddenly- Eco lifted her neck and shot a dragon breath towards Silvanus.

“…Urgh!”

A bright light pierced through the night sky. Ash surrendered against the shaking deck and fell down. Although Julius had barely avoided a direct hit, by giving the ship an emergency turn, the strong breath had burned one side of the ship into ashes.

There was smoke and fire emerging from the ship itself and it had begun to falter as it lost balance.

“Tsk…! If you kill me, Eco will die too! If that happens, you also couldn’t get your hands on Eco’s body that you desired that much...! How could someone be this stupid?”

When Ash was groaning, Julius voice could be heard once again through the communication machine:

“Ash, are you alright!”

“Yes, I am!”

“Silvanus is going to do an emergency landing! Jump quickly!”

“I also intend to do that!”

Ash clenched his teeth and jumped off from the deck.

The moment his feet left the deck, Mordred gave a second dragons breath.

Looking backwards, he saw that Silvanus’s fuselage suffered a direct hit from the dragon breath.

Ash shuddered. He was lucky that he had jumped off earlier or else he would be turned into dust also.

Although Julius had said there were going to do an emergency ‘landing’, judging from the speed Silvanus was moving downwards, it looked like it was crashing.

Finally, the unbalanced ship disappeared at the other end of the palace walls- Then a fire pillar could be seen followed by a loud explosion.

“Prince Julius…!”

Ash was sad but there was nothing he could do about it.

Julius had risked his life to fly him into the night sky.

The only thing he can do right now is to complete his mission in return.

Ash's body was moving downwards because of gravity's pull.

His face and ears felt like being crushed by the rushing air pressure.

“Now is the time!”

Ash had got the timing right and pulled the rip cord, the parachute spread open.

An amazing braking force had caused the parachute to slow down.

If another dragon breath was shot off, Ash would certainly be hit but Ash prayed that he will not have such bad luck.

“Wait for me, Eco. I will protect you… I swear!”

===Part 16===
“Damn! Where am I?”

Eco found out that she was in a cage when she woke up. When she was looking at her body, she found out that she was wearing a dress with low standards.

This style is obviously not of Eco’s preference.

Any dress in Fontaine Palace’s changing room looked better that this. It is even as heavy as lead and it felt more like a binding item rather than an evening dress.

On the other side of the cage was a wide white space. The walls, the floor and the ceiling were white. Not even a speck of dust that could be found.

“How dare anyone to cage a dragon like me in this cage… What were they even thinking!?”

Eco was definitely confused. Yet she still vaguely remembered that she was awakened as a dragon. She even remembered that she had become huge and was looking at the whole of Fontaine palace.

But her memories stopped there.

“Tsk… It seems that you are alright since you are so energetic even in such a situation as this.”

It was a familiar voice.

“Navi? You…!”

Navi was standing outside of the cage. Even though Eco disliked Navi, but in such a situation, Eco was grateful that Navi was here and felt that Navi was like an angel.

The Eco’s angel was now looking like a rag-doll.

Navi, who was always acting calm and give out a noble like feeling, was now seen with mussed up hair and even her evening dress was in rags. All over her body were the marks of being bound.

“What happened? This doesn’t look like you at all…”

Eco was taking a closer look at Navi.

“Hmm… I am only accompanying Mordred in his game. It was just that, his tentacle fetish has given me some trouble!”

“Mordred? Who is that?”

“Please lend me your hand.”

Eco stretched her hand through the gaps between the bars of the cage. After Navi held her hand, a mass amount of knowledge flowed into her brain.

In a blink of an eye, Eco knew everything that had happened. Only now did she realize that she is in her spiritual from.

“To make it simple… That person called Mordred is trying to take over my body, right?”

“That’s right. Anyway, during the time I was running around, he had done nothing bad. But if it's to destroy this capital, it will be an easy task for him.”

“Hmm… So I am such a great dragon.”

According to Navi’s information, Eco is Avalon’s Imperial Princess.

“Huhu. Now Ash is going to look at me differently.”

Seeing that Eco was feeling proud, Navi sighed.

“As long as he can survive. He seems to be doing something foolhardy again.”

Navi held Eco’s hand again and Eco closed her eyes.

That current situation was sent into Eco’s brain as projections.

“What…!”

Eco was speechless.

Under the night sky- Ash leaned out from Silvanus’s deck.

The next instant, Mordred gave a dragon breath to the ground.

Silvanus was hit and was now gliding down from the sky, as if it was a paper plane.

On the other hand, Ash jumped into the air and was falling with his head pointing downwards.

“Hold on… Is he crazy!?”

At that moment, Eco clearly heard Ash’s mumble.

"Wait for me, Eco. I will protect you… I swear!”

In a short moment, tears started to flow from her eyes. Even though she was a spirit, her tears still kept on flowing. Even the Dragweiss couldn’t give an explanation. A warm feeling was haunting her heart… What was that feeling?

“Why…Why? Why would he… try to do so many things for me? Even when I… Have caused many, many troubles for him?”

Navi stretched her hand into the cage and patted her head.

“Do you even have to ask? It is because you are his pal.”

Eco rubbed off her tears and lifted her head.

“Navi, please tell me what can I do for him.”

“Teehee. That’s more like it.”

Navi smiled and waved her hand lightly. With a flash, the cage disappeared. At the same time, the black dress that limits Eco’s movement was broken into particles and a pure white evening dress was reveled from beneath.

In a short time, Navi removed Mordred’s seal.

“I must say that… You are very good.”

Eco was scoping out her dress. Its design compromised of the elements of elegance and purity. It is as if it was made to be worn by the Avalon’s Imperial Princess.

“No matter how great I am, I can't help you with the upcoming step. Understood?”

Eco nodded in reply.

“Then, what should I do?”

After Navi smiled, she cheekily said:

“Of course you are to present him your originally made Ark and the Avalon’s Imperial Princess.”

The next instant, Eco became confused.

“What? Are you serious?”

As if it was natural to do so, Navi nodded without any hesitation.

“All the mimics that you have created, for various emergencies in the past… are useless against Mordred.”

“But, how, am I supposed to do this impossible task!?”

An original Ark could not be completed easily.

It was because Eco had seen her ancestor’s blueprint; she understands how hard it can be. An Ark is not only a strong magic weapon, at the same time, it is also a perfect art masterpiece.

Not to mention that Eco was still a young dragon that was not even a year old without any experience. Navi’s suggestion was like asking a baby to build a palace.

“Anyway, it would not be called difficult if the blueprint could be easily created.”

Eco gave up before she even started but Navi ignored it.

“Rest assured, you must believe in your own ability. You are an Imperial Princess who is the blood descendant of Avalon.”

“But… But what we must think about is not only the armour itself, there is also the Ark-weapon…”

“Listen carefully, the shape itself doesn’t matter. It is the mental power of the creator that decides the strength of the Ark. Even if you don’t know the shape, as long as you focus, the shape of the Ark will be formed.”

“Really…?”

“Yeah. Also, you don’t have to worry about the Ark-weapon. Avalon has a treasured sword that's been passed down through the generations. Just use it.”

After a moment of silent, Eco mumbled:

“…I had always disliked you since the first time I met you. Regardless of your relaxed attitude or your looks that was similar to mine or your overly large breast… I hate them and hate them very much! However… It's funny in the way that I felt you're trustable.”

Eco lifted her head and smile.

Navi also returned a smile.

At the same moment, Eco felt that a light had pierced through that darkness that had been blocking her eyes.

She didn't want to look for trouble anymore.

And she definitely doesn’t want to give in before taking up the challenge.

While the evening dress was swaying, Eco spoke with confidence:

“Just wait and see. I will definitely complete my original Ark!”

===Part 17===
“Damn… What kind of joke is this!”

Although Ash had finally landed on Eco–– Still... the landing spot was her back and not her head. It was exactly beside the joints between the body and the wings.

That same pair of wings were like the wings of a new born bird. They are still wet and unable to fly right away.

Maybe this is my only life saver… Ash secretly thought.

Black fur was growing from her uneven skin. It felt like a Necromancia. He must get rid of Mordred’s spirit and return Eco to her original appearance as soon as possible.

To achieve this, he must try to ride her gigantic body. However… Ash was looking at Eco’s head from afar.

Connected to her back, that was as wide as prairie, was a long neck that looked as if it was a stairway climbing up to heaven. And her head, with the spiral horns, was at the other end of that neck.

His current aim was to ride on her head and try to control her using his will as a dragner. However… The distance between them was huge. It was like trying to climb the dangerous Xenoglavia Mountains without any climbing tools.

“Stop it! …This is not the time to give up.”

Ash threw aside the parachute and moved forward while pushing aside the fur that was taller than himself.

“Now I really looked like a louse…”

In reality, Mordred treated Ash ''as'' nothing but a louse. That is why he was not bothered by Ash at all.

“Just wait and see. Your overconfidence will be the cause of your death, Mordred…”

Although Ash kept on talking to himself to boost his confidence, but every time he looked towards her head, he felt like falling apart.

Suddenly, there was a change in the night sky.

Those Maestros, who were originally circling in the sky, started to make their move.

Those Maestros could be seen gliding towards Mordred and had him surrounded.

“Grrrrrrrrrrrrr…”

Mordred lifted his neck and gave a threatening growl. However, before he even managed an attack, the Maestros activated their magic all at the same time.

With a flash, chains that were made from magic appeared. Numerous chains now tied down the huge dragon’s neck, front legs, hind legs, tail…

“Guuuoooooooooooooooooooo…!”

Mordred was struggling with all his might but the chains wouldn’t budge even a little.

“They…!”

It can’t be wrong. These Maestros were trying to seal Mordred’s movement. Who knows if they were thinking that the dragon worthy to take to top is not Mordred but Eco.

At that moment, a Maestro landed right in front of Ash. Its pair of horns looking like a deer’s, also looked familiar to Ash. Then a clear voice could be heard coming from behind the dragon.

“Ash… Hurry up!”

“Lucca!? Why are you here?”

That is. The Maestro that suddenly appeared from above was Gawain, and Lucca was riding on its back. Ash felt nostalgic.

Lucca while feeling worried gave Ash a short explanation.

“Err… The Maestros in the dragon house seven were all escaping together. I risked my life to cling onto Gawain… In the end, I found out that I was already here.”

“Did Rebecca and Max come together?”

Lucca shook her head. It was probably Ash's mistake that he felt that Lucca’s ears were slightly drooping.

“Only I noticed that something was going on with the Maestros…”

“Is that so…”

As if to interrupt Ash’s and Lucca’s conversation, Gawain roared with its jaws opened.

It was as if trying to tell Ash to ride on it quickly. Ash naturally didn’t reject this offer.

“Thank you!”

Just as Ash sat on Gawain’s back, Gawain flapped its wings.

After piercing through the night sky, Gawain’s altitude was increasing while following along the direction of Mordred’s neck. Lucca’s riding skills were as good as ever and could only be described as perfect.

Ash was clinging tightly to Lucca’s thin waist to avoid from dropping off.

However, Mordred would not stay silent. Although he was being tied down, it was still struggling and roaring loudly.

Suddenly, magic cannons continued to appear in the sky and were firing at Gawain.

Ash was trembling when he saw those cannons.

It was because those cannons looked like the weapon that Ash used during his fight with Milgauss in Willingham Mausoleum. The only difference is, each cannon was around Gawain’s size.

“Magic shield Aegis…!”

“Need not worry… It will be alright as long as we are not hit.”

Lucca was not at all shaken.

As if she had fused with Gawain, she was controlling Gawain by moving left and right and dangerously avoided the crossing light rays.

Gawain even used its dragon breath and one by one the magic canons were destroyed.

When Gawain had successfully passed Mordred’s head, all the magic cannons had disappeared.

“Ash, nows the time…!”

Just when Lucca shouted, Gawain did a somersault.

At the point where the sky was upside down, Ash jumped down.

He drew a big locus in the night sky and successfully lands in between the two horns. Looking from a close distance, the horns looked more like an altar than a horn.

When his feet landed on that spot, he felt satisfied. It was probably his dragner’s intuition that told him this is the best riding spot.

“Listen carefully Eco!”

Ash was shouting with all his might at his ‘Seikoku’ that was connected to Eco:

“Right now, I am going to ride you! I swear I will be successful in riding you! Whether you are an Imperial Princess or not it has nothing to do with me! So what if you are an imperial princess? You are always bad tempered, try to solve anything with force, a sleepy head, only have crepes in your eyes and feel like wanting to bite greedily whenever you see meat. Are these what an Imperial Princess should do! Even if you really are an Imperial Princess, I will never approve it!... I only know that–– I am your knight, and you are my pal. Things are just as simple as this!”

The next instant, there was a change in his left arm that was dense with ‘Seikoku’.

The ‘Seikoku’ can be seen emitting rays of light that were able to light up the entire night sky. Then patterns started to crawl just like some living things.

No, the patterns were growing.

“W-What had happened…?”

Just when Ash was feeling confused, his ‘Seikoku’ started to spread outwards towards Ash entire body with his left arm as the starting point.

Ash found that his connection with Eco had become stronger.

Although he couldn’t communicate with Eco verbally, yet, he was sure that he was connected to Eco…!

But, Ash's thinking only lasted for a short moment.

“Guuuuuuuoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo…!”

Mordred was back on the move. He had broken one of the chains and was standing on two legs.

“Auuu…!”

Lucca groaned. The wind created when Mordred stood up had affected Gawain. Although it was not blown away by the wind, it was obvious that it could not retain its balance. However, Lucca shouted:

“Don’t worry about me… I am alright! Ash, just focus on saving Eco…!”

Then, Lucca and Gawain finally fall back and disappeared from Ash’s line of sight.

“Lucca…!”

Ash stretched his arm but he could only grab the air.

The Maestros that were scattered in the sky tried to make another chain to tie down Mordred’s upper body.

But before Mordred could be sealed, it forcefully shook its neck.

“Uwaaaaaaaaa!”

Ash lost his balance and was thrown up into Fontaine Palace like a cannonball.

-This is a lie… It must be…?

He was approaching the tower in the middle of Fontaine Palace.

If he was to hit into such stone wall…he will definitely die.

-Is this the end…? Is Eco and I… Going to end right here?

Right at this moment.

『Almete, Gorjal, Peto…』

The voice of the spell was coming from his ‘Seikoku’ that had spread all over his body.

『Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje…』

It was definitely Eco’s voice.

『Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales…』

Compare to the previous times, every single word that Eco said was followed by a deep tone.

『Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas…』

Without any reason, Ash felt courage from within.

『Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas… Escarpes…』

Lastly, Eco was left with the last word.

『-Espolón!』

Ash, who was quickly going to crash into Fontaine Palace, was surrounded by holy lights.

It felt as if he was surrounded by angel’s wings.

Even though Ash had an illusion of himself ascending to heaven... Eco’s voice had disrupted these peaceful feeling.

『“You absolutely must accept my feelings!”』

===Part 18===
As he opened his eyes, Ash was standing at the highest point of Fontaine Palace.

“I- I am saved?”

He saw Mordred was standing ferociously with only two legs while still being bound by the chains of the Maestros.

All of the nine eyes were burning deeply with the flames of rage and each looked like a scarlet star. Even though he was trying his best to break free from the existing chains, those Maestros kept on creating new chains.

“This… What is this feeling?”

Ash was looking at his own body.

His entire body was emitting heat and was overflowing with magic.

It has to be the Ark that Eco presented to me–– Yet to Ash’s dismay, what he was wearing right now was still his cloths that looked like rags.

There was not even an Ark that could be seen.

Even so, Ash still continued to feel safe as if he was protected by the Ark. Furthermore, the ‘Seikoku’ that was on his entire body was alive.

What is happening?

『Hey, why are you daydreaming! Quickly use the Ark-weapon!』

Eco’s voice was once again could be heard in his mind

“Eco…? What is happening?”

『T-that is…?』

Without any reason, Eco became silent. It felt as if she was embarrassed because of a certain something.

As if to speak on Eco’s behalf, another voice appeared in his mind.

『Huhu. That is an original Ark that Eco has created on her own. However, it is still incomplete and even the shape has not been decided on yet.』

“This voice… Are you Navi!”

『The Ark represents proof of the oath of a dragon that swears to hand over their body and feelings to their knight. At the same time, it was a proof that it was connected to the Master’s heart. Right now, you are recognized as Avalon’s knight.』

『I-I only wanted to get back my own body!... It was never meant to be given to you!』 Eco expectantly added.

『Ara? Who is the person who was crying because she was worried about Ash? I wonder.』

『"Sh-Shut up!"』

Eco and Navi seemed to have started an argument.

Ash made a difficult smile because only they could still have the mood to quarrel even during such a dangerous situation.

All the negative emotions like insecurity and fear had disappeared.

However- Right after that, Ash had a bad premonition as if a pair of cold hands held on to his spirit. When he raised his head, Mordred’s eyes were filled with sparks and were marking him.

It had obviously begun to take notice of Ash who had only just previously been disregarded as a louse.

“Guuuuuoooooooooooooooooooooo…!”

Although Mordred was still bound by those magic chains, after putting in some effort, he still managed to open his jaws

There was a ball of light that could be seen appearing in front of his nose and it was slowly expanding-

Ash felt a large amount of energy from it. It was thanks to the Ark that his senses had sharpened.

Navi warned Ash in his mind.

『That’s bad. Even though Mordred has not completely fused with me, he is still very strong…!』

“Rest assured. I will personally deal with it.”

Ash immediately started to search for information regarding his Ark-weapon. Thanks to his experience in equipping those mimics, his was able to complete his search in a short time.

Ash smiled from within his heart.

The Ark-weapon forming in his mind was undoubtedly the strongest sword that had ever existed.

Ash readied his posture and started to chant the spell.

“An iron that could slash through anything…”

For every word he said, his ‘Seikoku’ that was all over his body was emitting heat and reacted strongly to it.

"A holy sword meant for a knight of all knights––”

At the same time... Ash felt an overflowing unlimited amount of magic emanating from his palm.

The one and only treasured sword that had been passed down through generations by generations in the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family had now shaped its form in Ash’s palm.

“Appear–– Excalibur!”

It was not only a huge brave and beautiful sword but also an Ark-weapon.

On its silvery white hilt were many scarlet colored Millenniums and they were shining brightly.

After he wielded the holy sword with both hands tightly, Ash leaped.

At the same time, Mordred was about ready to throw out its dragon breath.

That one ball of light, started to emerge, with such overwhelming power that could destroy the entire capital, to ground level, within the blink of an eye. Followed by some purple electric bolts flashing around Mordred’s head, the ball of light was released at Ash’s direction.

To make matters worse, Ash couldn’t avoid it because the entirety of Fontaine Palace and the capitol City were right behind him.

No–– In reality, I won’t even need to avoid it.

“Uooooooooooooooooooooooooo!”

Ash as if he had forgotten about his fear rushed towards the ball of light.

In respons to Ash’s verve, the Millenniums at the hilt of the holy sword increased their radiance giving out a bright light.

The presently shapeless Ark was releasing all its magic.

“Kirisakeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!” <ref>斬り裂け. Means to get split and break apart.</ref>

Just before being swallowed by that attack, Ash swung the most powerful strike.

––Cut!!! <ref>斬. Ii was a word that was usually shouted when someone wanted to cut/slash/chop/kill off something.</ref>

At the same time the lump of energy was split into two, Ash was in mid-air. His vision was full of white and he could see nothing at all.

If not because of the protection he received from the Ark, all the cells in his body would have been vaporized to hot plasma. Ash was indeed slashing through such high amount of thermal energy.

In the end, his vision finally widened.

The dragon breath that was sliced into two had its trajectory changed and each had landed at the Fontainia plains on both sides of the capital and had exploded.

Although it was a huge explosion, apart from the strong wind, Fontaine City remained intact.

Ash lifted again Excalibur and pointed it at Mordred’s head.

At that moment, there was a creepy voice coming from Ash’s mind.

…Hold on! If you harm this body, the daughter of Avalon will also be––

The nine eyes kept on blinking as if it still had something to say.

“Haa! Now you start to beg from me… Know your place, Mordred!”

Ash remained determined and continued to land at the head.

Of course Ash knew that this body originally belonged to Eco.

He never had the intention to simply slash around with this sword.

However, to get rid of Mordred’s spirit, he needs Eco to bear with it for a few more moments.

What Ash intended to do was not to kill Eco but to make her lose her strength.

Where is the best place to land my attack?

There is not enough time to think of such complicated problems.

It is because apart from Eco’s and his own life, Ash was burdened with the lives of millions of residents of the capital. Ash decided to wager everything he had in the only possibility he could think of.

“Eat this, Mordred!”
[[Image:SnRK V04 243.jpg|thumb|“Eat this, Mordred!”]]

Ash was landing at full speed.

''What are you trying to do…? Do you want to follow the Julius's footsteps and become a ‘dragon slayer’? I can’t understand this, I just can’t understand this…!''

Ash didn’t reply and had no intention of doing so.

“Whether you are a god or a devil-”

Ash’s sword and Mordred’s horn clashed with each other.

“All the dragons will have to listen to my command, not to mention––”

After he had pinpointed the crucial point to release Eco, Ash swung Excalibur-

“If it is my '''P.A.L'''!”

Followed by a sound of a metal clashing with rocks, the night sky was swallowed by a white light.

The thing that was chopped off by Ash and was flying in mid-air was the left horn.

“Guuuuooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo…!”

Mordred’s roar was echoing in the night.

===Part 19===

『“Huhu. Mordred must be running away with his tail curled up behind him<ref>A proverb. Basically, if an animal is defeated, it will run off with its tail between its legs thus making sure it is not wagging in the air to be bitten off.</ref> even though a spirit shouldn't have any tails.” 』

Mordred’s spirit was running under the night sky towards the east while he was seen by Navi.

On the eastern side of the country is Chevron Kingdom’s land.

『“So in the end he has escaped to Chevron Kingdom… I must wait until he rises again before I can have him captured. Right now... I should give praise to Avalon’s Knight." 』

Navi gave herself a cheer and smiled.

Eco’s spirit was no longer beside her.

===Part 20===

Ash’s final blow had chopped off Eco’s left horn.

Last month during the time Ash was in the infirmary, he had bitten Eco’s horn. Furthermore, her left horn being chopped off made her recall that feeling.

It was that ‘happy’ feeling that dragged Eco’s spirit out.

Her heart's memories and her body memories.

When both of them were thinking the same thing, Eco’s spirit managed to take back its own body and the combined effort got rid of Mordred’s spirit.

Not only is this method impractical, its succession rate too is just as low.

However, Eco’s clearly remembered the feeling that Ash gave her.

––Navi had seen it all.

The body of the huge dragon had started undergoing changes inside the glaring light.

The skin color that was originally black had turned back to its original silvery white color.

As for those nine creepy eyes, they had merged and returned to two clear scarlet eyes.

Then-

The body that was bigger than Fontaine Palace was shrinking slowly and, after some time, finally turned back into a young teenage girl with pink hair.

Ash gently hugged the angel like naked body in mid-air.

Although Eco was blushing, she still placed her hand on Ash’s back and hugged her knight.

"Princess of Avalon ~A.S.B.1365.7~" is closed.
<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 7|Chapter 7]]
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| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 8

2014-03-07T09:33:36Z

Aoi uchuu: Phrases, words and grammar. Captions.

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Names and Terminology Guidelines

2014-03-07T01:40:01Z

Aoi uchuu: /* Locations */

This page is a list of unique/semi-unique terms and names for translators and editors to maintain consistency with. If anything significant needs to be done, such as any large additions, disputes to listed translations to a term or name, or formatting issues, please feel free to post them at the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=5484 Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi] discussion thread.

==Format Standard==
===Style of English===
All edited translations are to be in British English.

===Narrative Tenses===
Translators are allowed to use whichever tenses they need, so editors have to fix any errors for tenses when you find one. Narrative tense should be in past tense. Narrative does not mean the character dialogues.

===Stuttering===
If the word is a proper noun, proper adjective, or common nouns used as essential parts of proper nouns the stuttered words should be in capital letters.

Example 1: “B-Bucho, what is it?”

If the stuttering occurs at the beginning of the sentence and it is not a proper noun, proper adjective, or a common nouns used as essential parts of proper nouns, then the first stuttered letter should only be capitalised while all the other succeeding letters should be in lower case.

Example 2: “Eh? B-but, don’t you have to get yourself a husband?”

If the stuttering occurs in the middle of the sentence, then everything should be in lower case letters.

Example 3: “I've g-got to p-pick up a new b-book on vampires, m-myself.”

===Japanese Honorifics===
Since there are no equivalents to Japanese honorifics in the English language, Japanese honorifics will be kept.

===Japanese Loanwords===
There are some words in the Japanese language that do not translate into the English language, for such instances it is recommended to keep the Japanese loanword. For example, Torii.

===Translation Notes===

==Names==
===Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy===
'''Ash Blake''' (アッシュ・ブレイク ''Asshu Bureiku'') - The male protagonist. A first-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and (later) head of General Affairs in the Student Council. Known as the "Number One Problem Child" among students. Has a bandage on his left arm where his larger-than-normal Seikoku is located. Has the ability to ride on any dragon, which for most is impossible since dragons only allow their masters to ride them.

* Class: Breeder (Vol. 1-4)→Dragner (Vol. 4-8)→Ark-Dragner (Vol. 8 onwards)

* Nicknames
** Number One Problem Child in the academy(学院一番の問題児 ''Gakuin Ichiban no Mondaiko'')
** Silver Knight (銀麗の騎士 ''Shirubā Naito'')
** The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon
** Avalon Knight (アヴァロンの騎士 ''Avaron no Kishi'')

* Equipment
** Aix-les-Bains (エクス＝レ＝バン ''Ekusu Re Ban'') - Ash's first Ark Weapon, a greatsword with the power of light. Used in Vol. 1 to send a Necromnancia to rest.
** Brionac (ブリューナク ''Buryūnaku'') - Ash's second Ark Weapon, a sacred gun that shoots powerful ice magic that can freeze anything. Used in Vol. 2 against Avdocha.
** Excalibur (エクスカリバー ''Ekusukaribā'') – A two-handed sword that can only be wielded by an Avalon Knight. It can cut anything, even if the blade doesn’t really reach.
** Escavaron (エスカヴァロン ''Esukavaron'') - Ash's magicship.

'''Eco''' (エーコ ''Ēko'') - The main female protagonist, Ash's dragon partner in the shape of a petite girl. Has a brash and prideful personality, and refers Ash as her "dog" despite him being her master. Loves to eat crepes. Later becomes Student Council's mascot.

* Nicknames
** '''Eco Pendragon Aurora Christa Lena Angeles Iria Lorence Liliane Muirel Octavia Robertine de la Rosa L'Espérance van Compostela de Avalon''' (エーコ・ペンドラゴン・アウローラ・クリスタ・レーナ・アンヘルス・イリア・ロランス・リリアーヌ・ミュリエル・オクタヴィア・ロベルティーネ・デ・ラ・ローザ・レスペランス・ヴァン・コンポステーラ・ド・アヴァロン ''Ēko Pendoragon Aurōra Kurisuta Rēna Anherusu Iria Rolansu Ririānu Myurieru Okutavia Roberutīna de ra Rōza Resuperansu van Konbosutēra do Avaron'') - Full name
*Spell to make the Ark
**Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas,Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes, Espolón.
*Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family's Imeprial Princess.

'''Silvia Lautreamont''' (シルヴィア・ロートレアモン ''Shiruvia Rōtoreamon'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Fourth Princess of Lautreamont. Head of Disciplinary Affairs in the Student Council. Her dragon partner is Lancelot, a Maestro (Strada).

* Class: Dragner (Vol. 1-7)→Ark-Dragner (Vol. 7 onwards)

* Nicknames
** Ice Blue Princess (蒼氷の姫君（アイスブルー・プリンセス） ''Aisuburū Purinsesu'')
** Princess (皇家 ''Himegimi'')
** Sylvie

* Equipment
** Arondight (アロンダイト ''Arondaito'') – Silvia’s Ark Weapon that is a hybrid weapon between a halberd and a gun. The halberd form can be used for close-range combat, while the gun form can shoot magic bullets with attribute of the Bright Dragon Crystal it fires.

'''Rebecca Randall''' (レベッカ・ランドール ''Rebekka Randōru'') - Third-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and President of the Student Council. She is an Ark-Dragner, and is known as one of the strongest Dragners in Ansarivan. Her dragon partner is Cú Chulainn, a Maestro.

* Class: Ark-Dragner

* Nicknames
** Scarlet Empress (真紅の女帝（スカーレット・エンプレス） ''Sukāretto Enpuresu'')

* Equipment
** Gáe Bolg (ゲイ・ボルグ ''Gai Borugu'') – Rebecca's Ark Weapon. A spear with enormous destructive power that never misses its target when thrown.

'''Raymond Kirkland''' (レイモン・カークランド ''Reimon Kākurando'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and one of Ash's friends at the boys' dorms. A self-proclaimed "ladies' man". His dragon partner is Brigid, an Asia.

* Class: Breeder

'''Maximillian Russell''' (マクシミリアン・ラッセル ''Makushimirian Rasseru'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Student Council Secretary. Another one of Ash's friends at the boys' dorms. His dragon partner is Arianrhod, a Maestro.

* Class: Dragner

* Nicknames
** Max (マックス ''Makkusu'')

'''Jessica Valentine''' (ジェシカ・ヴァレンタイン ''Jeshika Varentain'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and childhood friend and rival of Rebecca. She is a devoted fan of the "Silver Knight", Ash's armored form, and is the founder of SKFC (Silver Knight Fan Club). Her dragon partner is Rhiannon, a Hydra.

* Class: Breeder

'''Lucca Sarlinen''' (ルッカ・サーリネン ''Rukka Sārinen'') - Third-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Owns Gawain, a Maestro.

* Class: Dragner
** An Eckbald. Commonly known as the 'forest Yōsei'

'''Oscar Brailsford''' (オスカー・ブレイスフォード ''Osukā Bureisufōdo'') - Second-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Vice-President of the Student Council. The Prince of the Chevron Kingdom and a Dragner, as well as the only Dragner who is the heir to the throne. His dragon partner is Tristian, a Maestro.

* Class: Ark-Dragner

* Nicknames
** The Baron of Sonic (音速の貴公子（ザ・バロン・オブ・ソニック） ''Za Baron obu Sonikku'')

* Equipment
** Failnaught (フェイルノート ''Feirunōto'') – Oscar's Ark Weapon. A magical bow that never misses its target when fired.

===Lautreamont Knight Country===
====Lautreamont Royal Family====
'''Oswald Lautreamont''' (オズワルド・ロートレアモン ''Ozuwarudo Rōtoreamon'') - The King of Lautreamont and a Paladin. He’s a fat man who isn’t even a Breeder. He adores Silvia greatly.

* Class: Paladin

'''Julius Lautreamont''' (ジュリアス・ロートレアモン ''Juriasu Rōtoreamon'') - Former crown prince of Lautreamont who was supposedly executed for killing his own dragon.

* Nicknames
** Dragon Slayer (竜殺し（ドラゴンスレイヤー） ''Doragon Sureiyā'')

'''Veronica Lautreamont''' (ヴェロニカ・ロートレアモン ''Veronika Rōtoreamon'') - The First Princess of Lautreamont. A fearsome warrior who once killed 100 men without losing. Is hinted to have a sister complex towards Silvia.

* Nicknames
** Ironblood Valkyrie (鉄血の戦乙女（アイアンブラッド・ヴァルキリー） ''Aianburaddo Varukirī'')

* Equipment
** Claymore
** Silvanus (シルヴァヌス ''Shiruvanusu'') - Veronica's peronsal airship. Named after Silvia.

'''Cassandra Lautreamont''' (カサンドラ・ロートレアモン ''Kasandora Rōtoreamon'') - The Second Princess of Lautreamont.

* Nicknames
** Diabolic Belladonna (魔性の妖花（ディアボリック・ベラドンナ） ''Diaborikku Beradona'')

'''Mirabel Lautreamont''' (ミラベル・ロートレアモン ''Miraberu Rōtoreamon'') - The Third Princess of Lautreamont and headmaster of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

* Nicknames
** Argento Magus (銀光の賢乙女（アルジェント・メイガス） ''Arujento Meigasu'', lit. "Silver Mage" in Italian)

====Citizens====
'''Cosette Shelley''' (コゼット・シェリー ''Kosetto Sherī'') - Silvia's maid.

'''Primrose Shelley''' (プリムローズ・シェリー ''Purimurōzu Sherī'') - Ash’s exclusive maid and Cosette's older sister. A useless clumsy maid who was doing chores onboard the ''Silvanus'' before Veronica chased her out to Ash.

* Nicknames
** Prim (プリム ''Purimu'')

'''Avdocha Kiltzkaya''' (アヴドーチャ・キルツカヤ ''Avudōcha Kirutsukaya'') - Veronica’s underling and leader of the Tantalos Tribe. She can control Basilisk. Also Anya's older sister.

* Nicknames
** Avdocha the Convicted (断罪のアヴドーチャ ''Danzai no Avudōcha'')

'''Glenn McGuire''' (グレン・マクガイア ''Guren Makugaia'') - Veronica's knight and Julius' best friend.

* Class: Arc-Dragner

* Equipment
** Caladbolg (カラドボルグ ''Karadoborugu'') – Glenn’s Ark Weapon. A greatsword.

'''Orletta Blanc''' (オルエッタ・ブラン ''Oruetta Buran'') - First class messenger of the palace.

'''''' ('''') - The leader of the Holy Dragners of Lautreamont.

'''Eunice Shelley''' (ユニス・シェリー ''Yunisu Sherī'') - Mirabel’s exclusive maid. Originally an orphan before being adopted by the House of Shelley.

'''Angela Cornwell''' (アンジェラ・コーンウェル ''Anjera Kōnweru'') - An advanced-level teacher at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. 25 years old. She used to love dragons but could not become a Breeder after not being chosen by Mother Dragon, so now she loves dissecting them instead. Has taken an interest in Eco and tried to dissect her in her introductory chapter but was stopped by Ash.

===Zepharos Empire===
'''OrtofonVIII''' (オルトフォン VIII ''Ortutofon VIII'') - the Emperor.

'''Klaus Viderhausen''' (クラウス・ヴィターハウゼン ''Kurausu Vidāhauzen'')
*Count of the Vandenhaar borders. (ヴァンーデンハル)
* Equipment
** Beowolf (ベオウルフ ''Beourufu'') - Klaus' airship.

'''Milgauss''' (ミルガウス ''Mirugausu'') - A mysterious masked man serving the Zepharos Empire. Wields Tyrfing, a sword that has the ability to create Necromancia.
*Real name- Mordred.
*Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king family's descendant.

'''Anya''' (アーニャ ''Ānya'') - Milgauss' subordinate and a member of the Tantalos Tribe. Works at Café La Tene. Also Avdocha's younger sister.

* Nicknnames
** '''Shamara Kiltzkaya''' (シャマラ・キルツカヤ ''Shamara Kirutsukaya'') - Real name

'''Kriemhild''' (クリームヒルト ''Kurīmuhirudo'') - A blind girl with power of "Pluto's Children" (冥王石の仔ら（プルートゥ・チルドレン） ''Purūtu Chirudoren''), which allows her to control dragons.

===Chevron Kingdom===
'''Zacherias III''' (ザカライアスIII世 ''Zakaraiasu Sansei'') - The old King of Chevron at 100 years of age.

'''Uriel Alfred Seevers de la Rosa Chevron''' (ユリエル・アルフレッド・シーヴァース・デ・ラ・ローザ・シェブロン ''Yurieru Arufureddo Shīvāsu de ra Rōza Sheburon'') - The Third Prince of Chevron. He coincidently became a crown prince after the First Prince fell in love with a girl and died of madness and the Second Prince fell in love with a commoner girl and disappeared.

* Equipment
** Crown Solas - Uriel's magicship.

'''Celestina Lafon''' (セレスティーナ・ラフォン ''Seresutīna Rafon'') - Oscar's exclusive maid and a former underling of Uriel. She also has the power of "Pluto's Children".

===Holy Espada Agency===
'''Raquel IV''' (ラクエルIV世 ''Rakueru Yonsei'') - The Pope of Espada and Mirabel's student.

* Nicknames
** Innocent High Priestess (至純の女教皇（イノセント・ハイ・プリーステス） ''Inosento Hai Purīsutesu'')

* Equipment
** Esperanza - Raquel's sacredship.

'''Penelope del Monde''' (ペネロペ・デル・モンテ ''Penerope deru Monde'') - Raquel's attendant and leader of the Holy Wing Imperial Knights of Espada.

===Labrock Trade Union===
Caudillo Enzo Sabatini

===Dragons===
====Main Dragons====
'''Mother Dragon''' (マザー・ドラゴン ''Mazā Doragon'') - An enormous dragon who gives dragons to the chosen Breeders during the Orphan Ceremony. She resides in Albion Forest.

'''Navi''' (ナヴィー ''Navī'') - A being residing in the Dragon's Workshop. An older version of Eco.

'''Mordred''' (モルドレッド ''Morudoreddo'') - Julius' former Maestro and the series' main antagonist. He was killed by Veronica but was revived as a Necromancia by Julius (now Milgauss).

'''Nuada''' (ヌァザ) - A dragon residing in the Willingham Mausoleum.

* Nicknames
** Willingham Dragon (ウィリンガムの竜 ''Wiringamu no Ryū'')

====Dragon Partners====


Lancelot (ランスロット ''Ransurotto'')

Cú Chulainn (クー・フリン ''Kū Furin'')

Brigid (ブリギット ''Burigitto'')

Arianrhod (アリアンロッド ''Arianroddo'')

Fergus (フェルグス ''Ferugusu'')

Rhiannon (リアンノン ''Riannon'')

Gawain (ガウェイン ''Gawein'')

Tristian (トリスタン ''Torisutan'')

==Countries and Locations==
''Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi'' takes place in the continent of '''Ark Strada''' (アルク・ストラーダ大陸 ''Aruku Sutorāda-tairiku''). The continent's shape closely resembles a dragon spreading its wing.

===Countries===
'''Lautreamont Knight Country''' (ロートレアモン騎士国 ''Rōtoreamon Kishi-koku'') - the main setting of ''Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi''. Located in the dragon's heart.

'''Chevron Kingdom''' (シェブロン王国 ''Sheburon-Ōkoku'') - Largest country of Ark Strada. Located in the dragon’s upper body to the chest.

'''Zepharos Empire''' (ゼファロス帝国 ''Zefarosu-teikoku'') - An industrial country in an adversarial relationship with Lautreamont and Chevron. Located in the dragon’s lower body from the chest.

'''Labrock Trade Union''' (ラブロック商工都市連合 ''Raburokku Shōkōtoshi-rengo'') - Located in the the dragon's tail.

'''Holy Espada Agency''' (エスパーダ聖庁 ''Esupāda-seicho'') - Located in the dragon's wing.

===Locations===
'''Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy''' (アンサリヴァン騎竜学院 ''Ansarivan Kiryū-gakuin'') - Special school where students with dragons train to become Dragners. Located in Lautreamont.

:'''Apollo House''' (アポロ舎 ''Aporo-sha'') - Advance course Boys' dormitory
:'''Epona House''' (エポナ舎 ''Epona-sha'') - Advance course Girls' dormitory
**Merk for Basic course
:'''La Tene''' (ラ・テーヌ ''Ra Tēnu'') - A café
:'''Seventh Dragon House''' (第七竜舎 ''Dainanaryū-sha'') - Dorm for Ark-Dragners
:'''Julius Hall''' (ジュリアス館 ''Juriasu-kan'') - Former Student Council building named after Crown Prince Julius, who was the Student Council's President at the time. Abandoned 10 years ago after the incident with Julius, but has now opened as the Student Council's base of operation again.

'''Fontaine City''' - The capital city of Lautreamont. Fontaine Palace, the Grand Palace, is located there.

'''Ecbald Village''' - A village in Lautreamont where Lukka and her clan live.

'''Dragon's Fang''' (竜牙亭 ''Ryūga-tei'') – Ansarivan’s luxurious hotel. It’s renowned for its menu of delicious gourmet foods.

'''Fianna Forest''' – The forest where Dragon Riding Festivals take place.

'''Albion Forest''' (アルビオンの森 ''Arubion no Mori'') – The forest where the Mother Dragon resides. Children in Lautreamont at the age of seven must participate in the Orphan Ceremony to be chosen by the Mother Dragon to be Breeders.

'''Norg Forest''' (ノーグの森 ''Noogu no Mori'') – The forest beside Allonnes Lake.

'''Willingham Mausoleum''' (ウィリンガム霊廟 ''Wirigamu-reibyō'') – The tomb of a young dragon that existed since ancient times. Located on the border of Lautreamont.

'''Albion Church''' – The church located in the entrance of the Albion Forest. It manages the Orphan Ceremony as well as protects the forest.

'''St. Durham Square''' (聖ダーラム ''Hijiri Dāramu'')- The place of the attack of the Necromancia.

'''Danebury''' (デーンベリー ''Deenberii'')- a commercial city west of Ansarivan.

'''St Valeria’s Church''' - The church where 'Avdocha the Convicted’ attacks.

'''Allonnes lakeside ''' - The place where the training camp is held. Near Norg Forest.

'''Rubina Lake''' (ルピニア湖) - A lake ...

'''Arkham''' - Zepharos Empire capital city of Arkham.

==Terminology==
===General===
'''Seikoku''' (星刻, lit. "Star Marking")

'''Dragweiss''' (竜種の記憶（ドラグワース） ''Doraguwāsu'', lit. "Record of the Dragon's Legacy") - A spirit library for dragons, with the information dating back centuries. Newborn dragons can easily access the Dragweiss.

'''Dragon Workshop''' (遣竜工房 ''Kenryū-kōbō'') - A special realm where Navi resides in. Created by the ancient Maestros.

'''Orphan Ceremony''' (オーファンの儀 ''Ōfan no Gi'') - A ceremony where children who are seven years of age are given larva from the Mother Dragon. Only a select few are chosen.

'''Ansal Herb''' (アンサルハーブ ''Ansaru Hābu'') - An herb that grows indigeneously in Lautreamont. Although normal to humans, having a rose-like scent, it has a drunken effect on dragons when inhaled or consumed. Used extensively in confectionery and beverages.

'''Xenoglavia War''' (ゼノグラヴィア戦争 ''Zenoglavia-sensō'')The war years ago where the kingdom is against the empire and the kingdom win with the help of the Lautreamont Knight Country.

'''Astral Flow''' (星精路（アストラルフロウ） ''Asutoraru Furō'')

'''Avalon Knight''' (アヴァロンの騎士 ''Avaron no Kishi'')

'''Eccles''' (エクル ''Ekuru'')-Currency in this story.

'''Elysium'''- The Continental Congress.

'''Dragon Riding Dance'''- A dance that could only be preform by the Eckbald.

'''Magic Techniques'''(''魔導工学'')- A magic powered machanics. (a type of skill)

===Dragon Tribes===
'''Asia''' (地竜（アーシア） ''Āshia'', lit. "Land Dragon") - A dragon that walks on all fours.

'''Strada''' (翼竜（ストラーダ） ''Sutorāda'', lit. "Air Dragon") - A flying dragon.

'''Hydra''' (水竜（ハイドラ） ''Haidora'', lit. "Water Dragon") - A dragon with snake-like features. Has control over water.

'''Maestro''' (聖竜（マエストロ） ''Maesutoro'', lit. "Holy Dragon") - The matured form of the above three classes. A dragon that has evolved into a Maestro results in a Breeder becoming a Dragner.

====Other Dragon types====
'''Basilisk''' (バシリスク ''Bashirisuku'') - Giant lizards, can only be controlled by members of the Tantalos Tribe.

'''Necromancia''' (屍灰竜（ネクロマンシア） ''Nekuromanshia'', lit. "Ash Corpse Dragon") - A class of dragons that are born from the ashes of dead dragons through Zepharos' sword "Tyrfing".

===Dragon Knight classes===
'''Breeder''' (竜飼い人（ブリーダー） ''Burīdā'') - People who are granted dragon larva from the Mother Dragon and who successfully gave birth to them. The first title everyone gets if they have a dragon.

'''Dragner''' (竜騎士（ドラグナー） ''Doragunā'', lit. "Dragon Knight") - Those who successfully made their pal mature into a Maestro. The second title people can get.

'''Ark-Dragner''' (聖天竜騎士（アーク・ドラグナー） ''Āku Doragunā'', lit. "Holy Heavenly Dragon Knight") - Those who gained armor from their Maestro gets this title. They also get a special power called Linear Magic. Only a certain number of people have them, and it is a very high title.

'''Paladin''' (騎士王（パラディン） ''Paradin'', lit "Knight-King") - A title above Ark-Dragner. The highest class of Dragners. The only known Paladin is King Oswald of Lautreamont.

===Items===
'''Dragsuits''' (騎竜服（ドラグスーツ） ''Doragusūtsu'', lit. "Dragon Calvary Clothes") - Costumes worn by all Breeders and Dragners in Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

'''Ark''' (聖騎甲（アーク） ''Āku'', lit. "Holy Rider Armor") - An unique set of armour Ark-Dragners receive from their Maestro.

'''Ark Weapon''' - Unique weapons that utilize Linear Magic (固有魔装 ''Koyū Mahō''). Wielded by Ark-Dragners.

'''Bright Dragon Crystal''' (竜輝華晶 ''Ryūki-kashō'') - The crystalized form of a dragon’s magic. It can be created only when the rider and the dragon can synchronize with each other. It’s commonly used as a catalyst and fuel for light and power.
:'''Oracle''' (竜媒魔法（オラクル） ''Orakuru'', lit. "Magic Dragon Medium")

:'''Millenium''' (千年輝華晶（ミレニアム） ''Mireniamu'', lit. "Thousand-Year Shining Crystal")

:'''Uranus''' (聖星石（ウラノス） ''Uranosu'', lit. "Holy Star Stone")

:'''Pluto''' (冥王石（プルートゥ） ''Purūtu'', lit. "Hades Stone")

'''Tyrfing''' (ティルヴィング ''Tiruvingu'') - A sword crafted by the Zepharos Empire with the ability to summon Necromancia from the ashes of dead dragons. Wielded by Milgauss.

'''Yggdrasil''' (ユグドラシル ''Yugudoashiru'') - A machine that was unearthed from the empire's ancient ruins. It can be used to force a normal dragon to evolve into a Maestro.

'''Avalon Bracelet''' (アヴァロンの腕輪 ''Avaron no Udewa'') - A special bracelet the Mother Dragon gave to Eco in Vol. 5 to suppress her power and prevent Eco from transforming into her true form.

===Time===
'''A.S.B.''' - Probably "After Saint's Birth", to match A.D./Anno Domini (latin for "In the year of the Lord."). The Saint mentioned being St Rosa Maria (as mentioned in v2c4) the founder of what seems to be the official religion of the Knight's Country.

'''Taurus (♉)''' is the 5th month according to v2 Prologue, so I guess they're using the western-astrology zodiac to name their months. Cross referencing the other novels will probably confirm this.

===Religion===
Since this comes up a lot in the novels, I (denormative) will try to standardise most of the terminology as I go through editing since there seems to be some confusion probably just due to lack of familiarity. Apologies if some of this states the obvious or sounds condescending, I'm not quite sure where people's knowledge levels are... (Context: I grew up in a religious Catholic/Anglican household and while I don't care about/for religion, not using the stock/idiomatic phrase patterns just make it not read 'naturally'. Plus it means I can put some otherwise useless knowledge to some use I guess... :? )

* The faith of Saint Rosa Maria seems to be patterned after either the Roman or Orthodox Eastern Christian churches given the heavy emphasis on 'Saints'.

* It's probably a good assumption also that "Saint Rosa Maria" is the fictional analogue of the Christian "Virgin Mary", though she seems to be the main figurehead of the faith in the novels. (There is actually a St Maria di Rosa in the Roman Catholic faith, but I'm not going to assume that the author is probably more familiar with Maria-sama ga Miteru then a 19th century congregation of sisters... :) )

* "Saint" or "St" should always precede the name of the saint (eg, "St Valeria" or "Saint Rosa Maria"). It should be spelt out completely ('Saint') in dialogue, but the 'St' form is fine for narration. I don't believe 'St.' is correct, in fact I think that's usually used as the abbreviation for 'Street' (at least in UK/AU English).

* I'm not sure how to deal with the "holy woman" translation in English, since in most instances you just want to use 'Saint' because that would be the natural pattern. I can't be certain, but the times I've seen 聖女 (seijyo/holy woman) used it always seems to refer to Saint Rosa Maria. If this is the case it would be logical to replace it with something like "The Saint" or just "Saint Maria".

* References to "praying to the saint before eating" can be replaced by the phrase [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grace_(prayer) "saying grace"] or "giving thanks".

* General references to "praying to Saint Rosa Maria" or "praying to the saint" can be replaced with the pattern of "giving thanks to..."

*Old Testament of the Stella Biblia

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Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Names and Terminology Guidelines

2014-03-07T01:37:50Z

Aoi uchuu: /* Locations */

This page is a list of unique/semi-unique terms and names for translators and editors to maintain consistency with. If anything significant needs to be done, such as any large additions, disputes to listed translations to a term or name, or formatting issues, please feel free to post them at the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=5484 Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi] discussion thread.

==Format Standard==
===Style of English===
All edited translations are to be in British English.

===Narrative Tenses===
Translators are allowed to use whichever tenses they need, so editors have to fix any errors for tenses when you find one. Narrative tense should be in past tense. Narrative does not mean the character dialogues.

===Stuttering===
If the word is a proper noun, proper adjective, or common nouns used as essential parts of proper nouns the stuttered words should be in capital letters.

Example 1: “B-Bucho, what is it?”

If the stuttering occurs at the beginning of the sentence and it is not a proper noun, proper adjective, or a common nouns used as essential parts of proper nouns, then the first stuttered letter should only be capitalised while all the other succeeding letters should be in lower case.

Example 2: “Eh? B-but, don’t you have to get yourself a husband?”

If the stuttering occurs in the middle of the sentence, then everything should be in lower case letters.

Example 3: “I've g-got to p-pick up a new b-book on vampires, m-myself.”

===Japanese Honorifics===
Since there are no equivalents to Japanese honorifics in the English language, Japanese honorifics will be kept.

===Japanese Loanwords===
There are some words in the Japanese language that do not translate into the English language, for such instances it is recommended to keep the Japanese loanword. For example, Torii.

===Translation Notes===

==Names==
===Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy===
'''Ash Blake''' (アッシュ・ブレイク ''Asshu Bureiku'') - The male protagonist. A first-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and (later) head of General Affairs in the Student Council. Known as the "Number One Problem Child" among students. Has a bandage on his left arm where his larger-than-normal Seikoku is located. Has the ability to ride on any dragon, which for most is impossible since dragons only allow their masters to ride them.

* Class: Breeder (Vol. 1-4)→Dragner (Vol. 4-8)→Ark-Dragner (Vol. 8 onwards)

* Nicknames
** Number One Problem Child in the academy(学院一番の問題児 ''Gakuin Ichiban no Mondaiko'')
** Silver Knight (銀麗の騎士 ''Shirubā Naito'')
** The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon
** Avalon Knight (アヴァロンの騎士 ''Avaron no Kishi'')

* Equipment
** Aix-les-Bains (エクス＝レ＝バン ''Ekusu Re Ban'') - Ash's first Ark Weapon, a greatsword with the power of light. Used in Vol. 1 to send a Necromnancia to rest.
** Brionac (ブリューナク ''Buryūnaku'') - Ash's second Ark Weapon, a sacred gun that shoots powerful ice magic that can freeze anything. Used in Vol. 2 against Avdocha.
** Excalibur (エクスカリバー ''Ekusukaribā'') – A two-handed sword that can only be wielded by an Avalon Knight. It can cut anything, even if the blade doesn’t really reach.
** Escavaron (エスカヴァロン ''Esukavaron'') - Ash's magicship.

'''Eco''' (エーコ ''Ēko'') - The main female protagonist, Ash's dragon partner in the shape of a petite girl. Has a brash and prideful personality, and refers Ash as her "dog" despite him being her master. Loves to eat crepes. Later becomes Student Council's mascot.

* Nicknames
** '''Eco Pendragon Aurora Christa Lena Angeles Iria Lorence Liliane Muirel Octavia Robertine de la Rosa L'Espérance van Compostela de Avalon''' (エーコ・ペンドラゴン・アウローラ・クリスタ・レーナ・アンヘルス・イリア・ロランス・リリアーヌ・ミュリエル・オクタヴィア・ロベルティーネ・デ・ラ・ローザ・レスペランス・ヴァン・コンポステーラ・ド・アヴァロン ''Ēko Pendoragon Aurōra Kurisuta Rēna Anherusu Iria Rolansu Ririānu Myurieru Okutavia Roberutīna de ra Rōza Resuperansu van Konbosutēra do Avaron'') - Full name
*Spell to make the Ark
**Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas,Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes, Espolón.
*Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family's Imeprial Princess.

'''Silvia Lautreamont''' (シルヴィア・ロートレアモン ''Shiruvia Rōtoreamon'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Fourth Princess of Lautreamont. Head of Disciplinary Affairs in the Student Council. Her dragon partner is Lancelot, a Maestro (Strada).

* Class: Dragner (Vol. 1-7)→Ark-Dragner (Vol. 7 onwards)

* Nicknames
** Ice Blue Princess (蒼氷の姫君（アイスブルー・プリンセス） ''Aisuburū Purinsesu'')
** Princess (皇家 ''Himegimi'')
** Sylvie

* Equipment
** Arondight (アロンダイト ''Arondaito'') – Silvia’s Ark Weapon that is a hybrid weapon between a halberd and a gun. The halberd form can be used for close-range combat, while the gun form can shoot magic bullets with attribute of the Bright Dragon Crystal it fires.

'''Rebecca Randall''' (レベッカ・ランドール ''Rebekka Randōru'') - Third-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and President of the Student Council. She is an Ark-Dragner, and is known as one of the strongest Dragners in Ansarivan. Her dragon partner is Cú Chulainn, a Maestro.

* Class: Ark-Dragner

* Nicknames
** Scarlet Empress (真紅の女帝（スカーレット・エンプレス） ''Sukāretto Enpuresu'')

* Equipment
** Gáe Bolg (ゲイ・ボルグ ''Gai Borugu'') – Rebecca's Ark Weapon. A spear with enormous destructive power that never misses its target when thrown.

'''Raymond Kirkland''' (レイモン・カークランド ''Reimon Kākurando'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and one of Ash's friends at the boys' dorms. A self-proclaimed "ladies' man". His dragon partner is Brigid, an Asia.

* Class: Breeder

'''Maximillian Russell''' (マクシミリアン・ラッセル ''Makushimirian Rasseru'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Student Council Secretary. Another one of Ash's friends at the boys' dorms. His dragon partner is Arianrhod, a Maestro.

* Class: Dragner

* Nicknames
** Max (マックス ''Makkusu'')

'''Jessica Valentine''' (ジェシカ・ヴァレンタイン ''Jeshika Varentain'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and childhood friend and rival of Rebecca. She is a devoted fan of the "Silver Knight", Ash's armored form, and is the founder of SKFC (Silver Knight Fan Club). Her dragon partner is Rhiannon, a Hydra.

* Class: Breeder

'''Lucca Sarlinen''' (ルッカ・サーリネン ''Rukka Sārinen'') - Third-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Owns Gawain, a Maestro.

* Class: Dragner
** An Eckbald. Commonly known as the 'forest Yōsei'

'''Oscar Brailsford''' (オスカー・ブレイスフォード ''Osukā Bureisufōdo'') - Second-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Vice-President of the Student Council. The Prince of the Chevron Kingdom and a Dragner, as well as the only Dragner who is the heir to the throne. His dragon partner is Tristian, a Maestro.

* Class: Ark-Dragner

* Nicknames
** The Baron of Sonic (音速の貴公子（ザ・バロン・オブ・ソニック） ''Za Baron obu Sonikku'')

* Equipment
** Failnaught (フェイルノート ''Feirunōto'') – Oscar's Ark Weapon. A magical bow that never misses its target when fired.

===Lautreamont Knight Country===
====Lautreamont Royal Family====
'''Oswald Lautreamont''' (オズワルド・ロートレアモン ''Ozuwarudo Rōtoreamon'') - The King of Lautreamont and a Paladin. He’s a fat man who isn’t even a Breeder. He adores Silvia greatly.

* Class: Paladin

'''Julius Lautreamont''' (ジュリアス・ロートレアモン ''Juriasu Rōtoreamon'') - Former crown prince of Lautreamont who was supposedly executed for killing his own dragon.

* Nicknames
** Dragon Slayer (竜殺し（ドラゴンスレイヤー） ''Doragon Sureiyā'')

'''Veronica Lautreamont''' (ヴェロニカ・ロートレアモン ''Veronika Rōtoreamon'') - The First Princess of Lautreamont. A fearsome warrior who once killed 100 men without losing. Is hinted to have a sister complex towards Silvia.

* Nicknames
** Ironblood Valkyrie (鉄血の戦乙女（アイアンブラッド・ヴァルキリー） ''Aianburaddo Varukirī'')

* Equipment
** Claymore
** Silvanus (シルヴァヌス ''Shiruvanusu'') - Veronica's peronsal airship. Named after Silvia.

'''Cassandra Lautreamont''' (カサンドラ・ロートレアモン ''Kasandora Rōtoreamon'') - The Second Princess of Lautreamont.

* Nicknames
** Diabolic Belladonna (魔性の妖花（ディアボリック・ベラドンナ） ''Diaborikku Beradona'')

'''Mirabel Lautreamont''' (ミラベル・ロートレアモン ''Miraberu Rōtoreamon'') - The Third Princess of Lautreamont and headmaster of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

* Nicknames
** Argento Magus (銀光の賢乙女（アルジェント・メイガス） ''Arujento Meigasu'', lit. "Silver Mage" in Italian)

====Citizens====
'''Cosette Shelley''' (コゼット・シェリー ''Kosetto Sherī'') - Silvia's maid.

'''Primrose Shelley''' (プリムローズ・シェリー ''Purimurōzu Sherī'') - Ash’s exclusive maid and Cosette's older sister. A useless clumsy maid who was doing chores onboard the ''Silvanus'' before Veronica chased her out to Ash.

* Nicknames
** Prim (プリム ''Purimu'')

'''Avdocha Kiltzkaya''' (アヴドーチャ・キルツカヤ ''Avudōcha Kirutsukaya'') - Veronica’s underling and leader of the Tantalos Tribe. She can control Basilisk. Also Anya's older sister.

* Nicknames
** Avdocha the Convicted (断罪のアヴドーチャ ''Danzai no Avudōcha'')

'''Glenn McGuire''' (グレン・マクガイア ''Guren Makugaia'') - Veronica's knight and Julius' best friend.

* Class: Arc-Dragner

* Equipment
** Caladbolg (カラドボルグ ''Karadoborugu'') – Glenn’s Ark Weapon. A greatsword.

'''Orletta Blanc''' (オルエッタ・ブラン ''Oruetta Buran'') - First class messenger of the palace.

'''''' ('''') - The leader of the Holy Dragners of Lautreamont.

'''Eunice Shelley''' (ユニス・シェリー ''Yunisu Sherī'') - Mirabel’s exclusive maid. Originally an orphan before being adopted by the House of Shelley.

'''Angela Cornwell''' (アンジェラ・コーンウェル ''Anjera Kōnweru'') - An advanced-level teacher at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. 25 years old. She used to love dragons but could not become a Breeder after not being chosen by Mother Dragon, so now she loves dissecting them instead. Has taken an interest in Eco and tried to dissect her in her introductory chapter but was stopped by Ash.

===Zepharos Empire===
'''OrtofonVIII''' (オルトフォン VIII ''Ortutofon VIII'') - the Emperor.

'''Klaus Viderhausen''' (クラウス・ヴィターハウゼン ''Kurausu Vidāhauzen'')
*Count of the Vandenhaar borders. (ヴァンーデンハル)
* Equipment
** Beowolf (ベオウルフ ''Beourufu'') - Klaus' airship.

'''Milgauss''' (ミルガウス ''Mirugausu'') - A mysterious masked man serving the Zepharos Empire. Wields Tyrfing, a sword that has the ability to create Necromancia.
*Real name- Mordred.
*Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king family's descendant.

'''Anya''' (アーニャ ''Ānya'') - Milgauss' subordinate and a member of the Tantalos Tribe. Works at Café La Tene. Also Avdocha's younger sister.

* Nicknnames
** '''Shamara Kiltzkaya''' (シャマラ・キルツカヤ ''Shamara Kirutsukaya'') - Real name

'''Kriemhild''' (クリームヒルト ''Kurīmuhirudo'') - A blind girl with power of "Pluto's Children" (冥王石の仔ら（プルートゥ・チルドレン） ''Purūtu Chirudoren''), which allows her to control dragons.

===Chevron Kingdom===
'''Zacherias III''' (ザカライアスIII世 ''Zakaraiasu Sansei'') - The old King of Chevron at 100 years of age.

'''Uriel Alfred Seevers de la Rosa Chevron''' (ユリエル・アルフレッド・シーヴァース・デ・ラ・ローザ・シェブロン ''Yurieru Arufureddo Shīvāsu de ra Rōza Sheburon'') - The Third Prince of Chevron. He coincidently became a crown prince after the First Prince fell in love with a girl and died of madness and the Second Prince fell in love with a commoner girl and disappeared.

* Equipment
** Crown Solas - Uriel's magicship.

'''Celestina Lafon''' (セレスティーナ・ラフォン ''Seresutīna Rafon'') - Oscar's exclusive maid and a former underling of Uriel. She also has the power of "Pluto's Children".

===Holy Espada Agency===
'''Raquel IV''' (ラクエルIV世 ''Rakueru Yonsei'') - The Pope of Espada and Mirabel's student.

* Nicknames
** Innocent High Priestess (至純の女教皇（イノセント・ハイ・プリーステス） ''Inosento Hai Purīsutesu'')

* Equipment
** Esperanza - Raquel's sacredship.

'''Penelope del Monde''' (ペネロペ・デル・モンテ ''Penerope deru Monde'') - Raquel's attendant and leader of the Holy Wing Imperial Knights of Espada.

===Labrock Trade Union===
Caudillo Enzo Sabatini

===Dragons===
====Main Dragons====
'''Mother Dragon''' (マザー・ドラゴン ''Mazā Doragon'') - An enormous dragon who gives dragons to the chosen Breeders during the Orphan Ceremony. She resides in Albion Forest.

'''Navi''' (ナヴィー ''Navī'') - A being residing in the Dragon's Workshop. An older version of Eco.

'''Mordred''' (モルドレッド ''Morudoreddo'') - Julius' former Maestro and the series' main antagonist. He was killed by Veronica but was revived as a Necromancia by Julius (now Milgauss).

'''Nuada''' (ヌァザ) - A dragon residing in the Willingham Mausoleum.

* Nicknames
** Willingham Dragon (ウィリンガムの竜 ''Wiringamu no Ryū'')

====Dragon Partners====


Lancelot (ランスロット ''Ransurotto'')

Cú Chulainn (クー・フリン ''Kū Furin'')

Brigid (ブリギット ''Burigitto'')

Arianrhod (アリアンロッド ''Arianroddo'')

Fergus (フェルグス ''Ferugusu'')

Rhiannon (リアンノン ''Riannon'')

Gawain (ガウェイン ''Gawein'')

Tristian (トリスタン ''Torisutan'')

==Countries and Locations==
''Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi'' takes place in the continent of '''Ark Strada''' (アルク・ストラーダ大陸 ''Aruku Sutorāda-tairiku''). The continent's shape closely resembles a dragon spreading its wing.

===Countries===
'''Lautreamont Knight Country''' (ロートレアモン騎士国 ''Rōtoreamon Kishi-koku'') - the main setting of ''Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi''. Located in the dragon's heart.

'''Chevron Kingdom''' (シェブロン王国 ''Sheburon-Ōkoku'') - Largest country of Ark Strada. Located in the dragon’s upper body to the chest.

'''Zepharos Empire''' (ゼファロス帝国 ''Zefarosu-teikoku'') - An industrial country in an adversarial relationship with Lautreamont and Chevron. Located in the dragon’s lower body from the chest.

'''Labrock Trade Union''' (ラブロック商工都市連合 ''Raburokku Shōkōtoshi-rengo'') - Located in the the dragon's tail.

'''Holy Espada Agency''' (エスパーダ聖庁 ''Esupāda-seicho'') - Located in the dragon's wing.

===Locations===
'''Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy''' (アンサリヴァン騎竜学院 ''Ansarivan Kiryū-gakuin'') - Special school where students with dragons train to become Dragners. Located in Lautreamont.

:'''Apollo House''' (アポロ舎 ''Aporo-sha'') - Advance course Boys' dormitory
:'''Epona House''' (エポナ舎 ''Epona-sha'') - Advance course Girls' dormitory
**Merk for Basic course
:'''La Tene''' (ラ・テーヌ ''Ra Tēnu'') - A café
:'''Seventh Dragon House''' (第七竜舎 ''Dainanaryū-sha'') - Dorm for Ark-Dragners
:'''Julius Hall''' (ジュリアス館 ''Juriasu-kan'') - Former Student Council building named after Crown Prince Julius, who was the Student Council's President at the time. Abandoned 10 years ago after the incident with Julius, but has now opened as the Student Council's base of operation again.

'''Fontaine City''' - The capital city of Lautreamont. Fontaine Palace, the Grand Palace, is located there.

'''Ecbald Village''' - A village in Lautreamont where Lukka and her clan live.

'''Dragon's Fang''' (竜牙亭 ''Ryūga-tei'') – Ansarivan’s luxurious hotel. It’s renowned for its menu of delicious gourmet foods.

'''Fianna Forest''' – The forest where Dragon Riding Festivals take place.

'''Albion Forest''' (アルビオンの森 ''Arubion no Mori'') – The forest where the Mother Dragon resides. Children in Lautreamont at the age of seven must participate in the Orphan Ceremony to be chosen by the Mother Dragon to be Breeders.

'''Norg Forest''' (ノーグの森 ''Noogu no Mori'') – The forest beside Allonnes Lake.

'''Willingham Mausoleum''' (ウィリンガム霊廟 ''Wirigamu-reibyō'') – The tomb of a young dragon that existed since ancient times. Located on the border of Lautreamont.

'''Albion Church''' – The church located in the entrance of the Albion Forest. It manages the Orphan Ceremony as well as protects the forest.

'''St. Durham Square''' (聖ダーラム ''Hijiri Dāramu'')- The place of the attack of the Necromancia.

'''Danebury''' (デーンベリー ''Deenberii'')- a commercial city west of Ansarivan.

'''St Valeria’s Church''' - The church where 'Avdocha the Convicted’ attacks.

'''Allonnes lakeside ''' - The place where the training camp is held. Near Norg Forest.

'''Rubina Lake''' (ルピニア湖) - A lake ...

'''Arkham''' Zepharos Empire capital city of Arkham.

==Terminology==
===General===
'''Seikoku''' (星刻, lit. "Star Marking")

'''Dragweiss''' (竜種の記憶（ドラグワース） ''Doraguwāsu'', lit. "Record of the Dragon's Legacy") - A spirit library for dragons, with the information dating back centuries. Newborn dragons can easily access the Dragweiss.

'''Dragon Workshop''' (遣竜工房 ''Kenryū-kōbō'') - A special realm where Navi resides in. Created by the ancient Maestros.

'''Orphan Ceremony''' (オーファンの儀 ''Ōfan no Gi'') - A ceremony where children who are seven years of age are given larva from the Mother Dragon. Only a select few are chosen.

'''Ansal Herb''' (アンサルハーブ ''Ansaru Hābu'') - An herb that grows indigeneously in Lautreamont. Although normal to humans, having a rose-like scent, it has a drunken effect on dragons when inhaled or consumed. Used extensively in confectionery and beverages.

'''Xenoglavia War''' (ゼノグラヴィア戦争 ''Zenoglavia-sensō'')The war years ago where the kingdom is against the empire and the kingdom win with the help of the Lautreamont Knight Country.

'''Astral Flow''' (星精路（アストラルフロウ） ''Asutoraru Furō'')

'''Avalon Knight''' (アヴァロンの騎士 ''Avaron no Kishi'')

'''Eccles''' (エクル ''Ekuru'')-Currency in this story.

'''Elysium'''- The Continental Congress.

'''Dragon Riding Dance'''- A dance that could only be preform by the Eckbald.

'''Magic Techniques'''(''魔導工学'')- A magic powered machanics. (a type of skill)

===Dragon Tribes===
'''Asia''' (地竜（アーシア） ''Āshia'', lit. "Land Dragon") - A dragon that walks on all fours.

'''Strada''' (翼竜（ストラーダ） ''Sutorāda'', lit. "Air Dragon") - A flying dragon.

'''Hydra''' (水竜（ハイドラ） ''Haidora'', lit. "Water Dragon") - A dragon with snake-like features. Has control over water.

'''Maestro''' (聖竜（マエストロ） ''Maesutoro'', lit. "Holy Dragon") - The matured form of the above three classes. A dragon that has evolved into a Maestro results in a Breeder becoming a Dragner.

====Other Dragon types====
'''Basilisk''' (バシリスク ''Bashirisuku'') - Giant lizards, can only be controlled by members of the Tantalos Tribe.

'''Necromancia''' (屍灰竜（ネクロマンシア） ''Nekuromanshia'', lit. "Ash Corpse Dragon") - A class of dragons that are born from the ashes of dead dragons through Zepharos' sword "Tyrfing".

===Dragon Knight classes===
'''Breeder''' (竜飼い人（ブリーダー） ''Burīdā'') - People who are granted dragon larva from the Mother Dragon and who successfully gave birth to them. The first title everyone gets if they have a dragon.

'''Dragner''' (竜騎士（ドラグナー） ''Doragunā'', lit. "Dragon Knight") - Those who successfully made their pal mature into a Maestro. The second title people can get.

'''Ark-Dragner''' (聖天竜騎士（アーク・ドラグナー） ''Āku Doragunā'', lit. "Holy Heavenly Dragon Knight") - Those who gained armor from their Maestro gets this title. They also get a special power called Linear Magic. Only a certain number of people have them, and it is a very high title.

'''Paladin''' (騎士王（パラディン） ''Paradin'', lit "Knight-King") - A title above Ark-Dragner. The highest class of Dragners. The only known Paladin is King Oswald of Lautreamont.

===Items===
'''Dragsuits''' (騎竜服（ドラグスーツ） ''Doragusūtsu'', lit. "Dragon Calvary Clothes") - Costumes worn by all Breeders and Dragners in Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

'''Ark''' (聖騎甲（アーク） ''Āku'', lit. "Holy Rider Armor") - An unique set of armour Ark-Dragners receive from their Maestro.

'''Ark Weapon''' - Unique weapons that utilize Linear Magic (固有魔装 ''Koyū Mahō''). Wielded by Ark-Dragners.

'''Bright Dragon Crystal''' (竜輝華晶 ''Ryūki-kashō'') - The crystalized form of a dragon’s magic. It can be created only when the rider and the dragon can synchronize with each other. It’s commonly used as a catalyst and fuel for light and power.
:'''Oracle''' (竜媒魔法（オラクル） ''Orakuru'', lit. "Magic Dragon Medium")

:'''Millenium''' (千年輝華晶（ミレニアム） ''Mireniamu'', lit. "Thousand-Year Shining Crystal")

:'''Uranus''' (聖星石（ウラノス） ''Uranosu'', lit. "Holy Star Stone")

:'''Pluto''' (冥王石（プルートゥ） ''Purūtu'', lit. "Hades Stone")

'''Tyrfing''' (ティルヴィング ''Tiruvingu'') - A sword crafted by the Zepharos Empire with the ability to summon Necromancia from the ashes of dead dragons. Wielded by Milgauss.

'''Yggdrasil''' (ユグドラシル ''Yugudoashiru'') - A machine that was unearthed from the empire's ancient ruins. It can be used to force a normal dragon to evolve into a Maestro.

'''Avalon Bracelet''' (アヴァロンの腕輪 ''Avaron no Udewa'') - A special bracelet the Mother Dragon gave to Eco in Vol. 5 to suppress her power and prevent Eco from transforming into her true form.

===Time===
'''A.S.B.''' - Probably "After Saint's Birth", to match A.D./Anno Domini (latin for "In the year of the Lord."). The Saint mentioned being St Rosa Maria (as mentioned in v2c4) the founder of what seems to be the official religion of the Knight's Country.

'''Taurus (♉)''' is the 5th month according to v2 Prologue, so I guess they're using the western-astrology zodiac to name their months. Cross referencing the other novels will probably confirm this.

===Religion===
Since this comes up a lot in the novels, I (denormative) will try to standardise most of the terminology as I go through editing since there seems to be some confusion probably just due to lack of familiarity. Apologies if some of this states the obvious or sounds condescending, I'm not quite sure where people's knowledge levels are... (Context: I grew up in a religious Catholic/Anglican household and while I don't care about/for religion, not using the stock/idiomatic phrase patterns just make it not read 'naturally'. Plus it means I can put some otherwise useless knowledge to some use I guess... :? )

* The faith of Saint Rosa Maria seems to be patterned after either the Roman or Orthodox Eastern Christian churches given the heavy emphasis on 'Saints'.

* It's probably a good assumption also that "Saint Rosa Maria" is the fictional analogue of the Christian "Virgin Mary", though she seems to be the main figurehead of the faith in the novels. (There is actually a St Maria di Rosa in the Roman Catholic faith, but I'm not going to assume that the author is probably more familiar with Maria-sama ga Miteru then a 19th century congregation of sisters... :) )

* "Saint" or "St" should always precede the name of the saint (eg, "St Valeria" or "Saint Rosa Maria"). It should be spelt out completely ('Saint') in dialogue, but the 'St' form is fine for narration. I don't believe 'St.' is correct, in fact I think that's usually used as the abbreviation for 'Street' (at least in UK/AU English).

* I'm not sure how to deal with the "holy woman" translation in English, since in most instances you just want to use 'Saint' because that would be the natural pattern. I can't be certain, but the times I've seen 聖女 (seijyo/holy woman) used it always seems to refer to Saint Rosa Maria. If this is the case it would be logical to replace it with something like "The Saint" or just "Saint Maria".

* References to "praying to the saint before eating" can be replaced by the phrase [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grace_(prayer) "saying grace"] or "giving thanks".

* General references to "praying to Saint Rosa Maria" or "praying to the saint" can be replaced with the pattern of "giving thanks to..."

*Old Testament of the Stella Biblia

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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 7

2014-03-07T01:29:04Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases. Caption.

==Chapter 7 - Masquerade==
===Part 1===
'''The Seventh Continental Congress ‘Elysium’ ''~A brief introduction of the attendees of each country~'' '''

'''I. Holy Espada Agency'''

The Pope Raquel IV is in charge of organizing this congress. Even though she is nine years old, her strong clairvoyance is recognized by all. She is a genius who was recommended to become the pope at a young age. She is now accompanied by twelve cardinals.

'''II. Chevron Kingdom'''

Apart from King Zacherias III and three princes, there are also the nobles who were involved in the country’s politics who attended. They made up a total of three thousand people all together which can be said to be the biggest group.

'''III. Zepharos Empire'''

Emperor Ortofon VIII will be absent because of old age. He will be replaced by the baron of the Vandenhaar borders. Apart from that, there were a few more powerful nobles who attended. Although their numbers were next to the Chevron Kingdom’s the amount of attendees for them is unusually small.

'''IV. Labrock Trade Union'''

Led by the Caudillo EnzoSabatini, a total of seven mayors from seven major cities attended.

'''V. Lautreamont Knight Country'''

Apart from Paladin Oswald and First Princes, Princess Veronica, the Fourth Princess, Princess Silvia will attend the congress for the first time. The second and the third princess will not attend because of studying abroad. Also, there are a few nobles who attend.

===Part 2===
After putting aside the pamphlet he took with him to pass time, Ash lay down on the bed lazily.

“Just as I thought, Princess-sama is amazing.”

A few moments before, Silvia was lying on this bed exchanging gazes with him. The living Silvia is just an arm length away. But after he saw Silvia’s name on the pamphlet, he still felt that she was still at that unreachable height.

Ash took out the silver watch that was given by the Paladin.

It was already six fifteen in the evening.

“It is already this late?”

After remembering that the masquerade starts at six thirty, he made up his mind to change. Just when Ash is reaching to take down the suit hanging on the wall–– He stopped.

“What is Eco doing?”

Girls are different from guys. They need to take their time to get prepared. Ash understands that. Even so, Eco and Prim had been away for four hours.

“Even if they are slow, this is just…”

Who knows where has she been to together with Prim.

After making up his mind, Ash removed the bandages on his left arm.

His left arm that was fully covered with his ‘Seikoku’ can be seen.

“Luckily I am connected with Eco.”

Not long ago, Eco was kidnapped by Angela. During that time, Ash found Angela’s hiding place with the help of his ‘Seikoku’.

Ash placed his left fist on his forehead and held his left wrist with his right hand.

“Please… Tell me where Eco is right now!”

After a pause, his left arm started to felt hot and the embroider symbols on his left arm started to glow. Butterflies created by magic started to fly one by one. These butterflies were like road signs and normally will show ash the way to Eco.

“Huh??”

But what happen next left Ash staring blankly. The butterflies created had disappeared and the lights and heat coming from his left arm too were gone.

“What’s happening!?”

Ash stood still, dumbfounded. Even though he kept on trying for the second and third time, he still ended up failing. His ‘Seikoku’ was like a broken bright-dragon-crystal powered lamp. It stopped functioning completely.

He had a bad feeling. This is Paladin’s main city, so he had never expected for Eco to face any danger here. Still, the connection between him and Eco, that had been cut off, was still the truth.

“Damn…!”

Ash was out of options and rushed out from the room.

He was running aimlessly at the long corridor.

When he was in the room together with Silvia, Eco probably was in danger… When Ash thought about this, he was disgusted by himself.

The space in the palace is wide. Even though he had absolutely no idea where to search for Eco, still he couldn’t stay worried in his room.

Just when he was rushing at full speed at the corner, Ash saw a maid.

“Uwaa!”

“Ara ara.”

At the same time the maid was mumbling something, she nimbly avoided Ash.

Not only that, just when he was going to fall, she also seized Ash’s necktie and pulled him back. Ash was lucky as he was a few moments away from falling head down.

“It is not like the normal Ash-sama to run around panicking in the corridor.”

Ash looked back embarrassedly and saw Cosette.

Ash as if he met his savior begged Cosette to help him.

“Eco and Prim have not yet return! Even the ‘Seikoku’ had no reaction!”

Cosette immediately became serious.

“Understood. I will immediately order the maids who are not on duty to search for them. It will be better than to let Ash-sama run around aimlessly.

“Thank you! Lets––”

“You mustn’t. Please follow the original plan and attend the masquerade, Ash-sama.”

“How could I… She is my pal. It isn’t right for me not to search for her!”

“Please don’t forget that this is Fontaine City. The coming words may not be pleasant, so I beg your pardon; Since the ‘Seikoku’ is not reacting, even if Ash-sama had joined the search, there is nothing you can do.”

“Wha….!”

“On the other hand, we maids knew the structure of this palace. Please believe in us and let us handle this matter. Not to mention that Prim onee-chan is my family. I will deal this matter with full force.”

“Understood…”

After Ash promised while nodding, Cosette finally smiled.

“Although this doesn’t seem right, I must ask Ash-sama to act as Princess’s escort.”

“Princess’s escort?”

“Even though she has always been as you saw, actually, she is very timid and afraid of strangers. But, as long as Ash-sama is with her, I don’t think that it will be a problem."

Cosette’s plan should be perfect. But this is the time where Eco will face danger any moment, and yet he was enjoying the masquerade, he didn’t feel that this is the right thing to do.

As if she had seen through what ash was thinking, Cosette guaranteed:

“Please have faith in me, Ash-sama.”

Ash reluctantly accepted.

“…Alright. Eco will be in your hands.”

<noinclude>

===Part 3===
After four in the evening, Anya returned to Beowolf through the long secret passage. After handing over Eco to Dr Hoffman, she borrowed the shower room.

Although it is summer, Anya felt very cold. She was drenched by the heavy rain outside not long before.

After entering the changing room, Anya firstly removed her maid attire that was soaked with water. Only then she removed her tight undergarments.

Lastly, she let loose her hair that was tied at the back of her head and she was now naked.

There was a huge mirror hanging on the wall in the bathroom.

“…”

It had been a long time since she stared at her own body.

Her wet dark hair, her wheat colored skin that only the mountain people have, her small chest and her curves that looked as if the extra flesh was removed by a knife.

Without any reasons, Anya touched her breast. Compare to ‘La Tene’s’ manager, Rebecca, the president of the student council and Princess Silvia, there is nothing special about hers––but at least they could be compared with Eco’s.
[[Image:SnRK V04 004-005.jpg|thumb|'' It seems like I am not at all feminine… Anya mocked her own self. “…!” Just when she thought about that, Anya panicked. ''What nonsense am I thinking about?'' '']]

''It seems like I am not at all feminine…'' Anya mocked herself.

“…!”

Just when she thought about that, Anya panicked.

''What nonsense am I thinking about?'' In the past Anya was never bothered by her looks. It was probably that living in the dragon riding academy, for this whole time, had made her impetuous.

Logically speaking; Big breasts will become a hindrance in battle. There are even legends mentioning that female warriors, of the mountain people in the ancient times, tend to cut off one of their breasts in order to not obstruct them in archery.

“That’s it. It is better to have a small breast than to face the knife!”

After Anya tried to give herself an excuse, she turned on the tap.

Although the water was initially cold, it had turned warm in just a few moments. Anya once again was amazed by the Empire's skills as she lets the warm water flow over her head.

She hoped that her impetuous feeling will be washed away together too––

Anya, while letting the warm water run down her body with her eyes closed, thought about her previous mission.

Basically, it was a successful mission.

Even though she had underestimated Eco’s fighting ability and thus caused her four underlings to be injured... Still, since they were not spotted by any of the guards, she could force a pass on it.

“But… The problems start here.”

===Part 4===
On the third floor of the palace- In the ball room, the temperature is rising. All the guests featured a silver mask. Apart from the traditional masks that hides only the area around the eyes, there were also masks shaped like dragons, lions and many other animals. Among them, there were also guests there dressed up as a clown.

Ash, wearing the formal suit and the mask that he received from the counter, stood beside the entrance. This was because Cosette had told him that, sooner or later, he will up meet Silvia if he stood there.

The palace’s orchestra was performing a light music piece at the opposite side of the door. Ash could never be able to blend into this kind of environment.

“Eco… Where are you?”

Ash had called out with his ‘Seikoku’ numerous times… but there is still no positive result.

The ‘Seikoku’ is like a quite beach during the low tide.

“––Anything wrong? You look like as if you are worrying about something.”

Suddenly, when he heard someone was talking to him, Ash looked up in fright. A lady with a black butterfly was staring at him. The black butterfly was of course a mask. Since it only covered the top part of her face, it was easy when it come to figure out who she was.

“Huh… Princess!”

Silvia glared at Ash.

“Uwaa, sorry…”

Ash was apologizing to Silvia while trying to check any emotional changes from her.

Her glaring golden hair was tied into a mature hairstyle together with the deep red colored ribbon that made her stand out. The long gloves that covered up to her elbow gave out the feeling of a fair lady. In her right hand was a fan which looked like the choice of a girl of high family status.

Her evening dress was blue in color with gem stones sewed on at complimenting places, its shimmering appearance looks like she just emerged from the lake during summer. In contrast to her waist, that was bound up tightly in a corset, the lower part of her dress was let out loosely and looked like a sole-lilium. <ref>Lilium is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants growing from bulbs, all with large prominent flowers. Lilies are a group of flowering plants which are important in culture and literature in much of the world. Wikipedia</ref>

Ash blushed. He recalled the memories two hours ago where both of them were on the bed.

“Princess… Is really beautiful.”

Ash felt pathetic as he has such a poor vocabulary. That is because Silvia is that beautiful.

“D-Don’t keep on staring at me. It’s embarrassing…!”

When Silvia noticed Ash’s sight, her cheeks turned rosy and shyly lower down her head. She opened up the fan and covered her mouth with it.

“Sorry…”

Ash was also embarrassed and turned his head aside.

There was an awkward moment in between the two and after a while, Silvia spoke:

“That’s it! I had heard of it from Cosette. It was said that Eco and Prim were lost together…”

Upon hearing, Ash was now fully awake.

“That’s right… Cosette right now was looking for them. If it is possible, I would also like to take part in the search. But, the ‘Seikoku’ is not reacting.”

“What did you say! How is it possible…?”

Just when Silvia was getting tense…

“Excuse me, miss. Can you please step aside?”

A man who was hiding his face, like the rest of the guests, was speaking to Silvia gently. The man's language bears a strong Empire’s accent.

“Ahh… Sorry.”

Silvia immediately stepped aside.

“Thank you, Princess Silvia- Sorry, tonight should be a masquerade. Hehe… It is better if we keep each other’s identity a secret.”

The man who was like a noble spoke like a poet and walked into the ballroom leisurely. Even when Silvia wore her mask, the man recognized her with just a glance.

''Who the hell is this guy''…Ash felt uneasy.

“You!”

At the next instant, Ash shouted.

The mysterious man had a follower with him. The follower initially was accompanying the man from behind but he was forced to stop when Ash held him by the shoulder.

“You are…!”

Silvia gasped when she recognized the follower.

Ash angrily asked without hesitating:

“Milgauss… Why are you here!?”

To his horror, Milgauss attempted to enter the ballroom with his usual mask.

“…Can you please let go, Ash Blake. I have nothing that I want to say to you here.”

Milgauss was calm.

Not only was Ash irritated by Milgauss when he purposely called his full name, but he also had a bad feeling about it.

“What? How dare you after doing those things…”

When Ash was going to refute, he noticed something.

The Kingdom’s language that Milgauss used doesn’t bear the Empire’s accent. Milgauss is Prince Julius–– There is a sudden increase in the probability of what Silvia had said.

“Oops. Could it be that my follower has offended both of you?”

The man before turned back to face the door. The previous tense atmosphere disappeared in an instant.

Milgauss glared at Ash as if he wanted Ash to know his place.

Through the mask, the fierce pressure that his eyes bear cause Ash to shake.

Milgauss then acted as if he had lost interest in Ash, turned around, and faced the man.

“Nothing. Just a misunderstanding. Nothing to make a fuss about.”

Even though he was a follower, Milgauss didn’t even try to speak in a humble form. <ref>Humble form is a way to express yourself in Japanese when you are speaking to a person from a higher social status.</ref>

Ash could only see them disappearing off into the crowd.

At this moment, Silvia spoke to Ash in a stuttered voice:

“That man… I knew him.”

“Really?”

“That’s it. He should be Klaus, Baron for the Vandenhaar borders.”

He had never imagined to hear the name of the agent of the Zepharos Empire’s Emperor from Silvia. In his heart, he felt a tense feeling as if someone was pointing a knife at his neck. The feeling was far more intense than the previous fights between Milgauss and Ash.

===Part 5===
After bathing, Anya changed back into a usual tribal wear.

Even though the weather was hot, she still wore the muffler around her neck. The mission before required her to remove the muffler which made her suffer a feeling like the lack of safety around her neck. Now, it is better.

After that, Anya headed to the armory to check on Eco.

===Part 6===
Upon stepping into the armory, the atmosphere had changed significantly into a hectic environment. ‘Yggdrasill’ seemed to be running and a buzzing sound can be heard.

The Millenniums on the body of the machine were shining. There are also the sounds of a technician reading off data shown on the screen.

It seems that Eco was already inside ‘Yggdrasill’ ––The capsule.

Her clothes were removed and she was naked.

She is just like a baby holding on to her knees floating in the capsule.

Her beautiful figure gave Anya a mysterious feeling.

“Ahh, aren’t you Anya-dono?”

The representative of the researchers- Dr. Hoffman<ref>note: Dr Hoffman’s ‘DR’ is a PHD holder’s Dr and not a medical Dr.</ref> noticed Anya and walk towards her.

“Has the experiment… begun?”

“At our current stage, there is nothing abnormal. It is all according to the plan.”

Dr Hoffman gave a gentle smile just like a kind elderly man. But this man took Eco as a experimental object without even a second though. This made Anya feel uneasy.

“It seems that Anya-dono didn’t like much about this experiment.”

Dr Hoffman’s word had hit the bull’s eye.

“N-No…!”

Anya felt embarrassed. Even though she denied verbally, everyone can tell that she is lying by the look of her face.

“It is alright. You are still young.”

“Professor… Have you ever have any doubt? Although Eco is a dragon… her appearance is of a girl’s.”

“Do I have a choice? For what I am today… it is all thanks to Klaus-sama. Last time, when I was forced to carry out all types inhuman experiments, I strongly rejected them and pissed off the Zepharos Emperor. In the end… I was chased out from the capital city of Arkham. During that time, Klaus-sama became my savior and invited me to his private research center.” After saying that, Dr Hoffman gave a gentle cough.

“Anya-dono, what do you think that this ‘Yggdrasill’ was used for?”

“I-I don’t know.”

“I am not surprised. Even I had no idea about what this thing was initially. I only realized after reading Milgauss-dono’s written opinion.”

“What did Milgauss-sama write?”

“It was said that, a long time ago… when the ancient kingdom reached its prime, humans and dragons could even control life. On the first glance on this ‘Yggdrasill’, Milgauss-dono knew that this is a medical tool.”

“Medical…?”

“In contrary to the modern times, all the dragons in the ancient times could transform into a Maestro. But of course there were exceptions. This machine is used for dragons who couldn’t transform into the Maestro type… Basically, it was for dragons with a handicap.”

Anya finally understood Dr Hoffman’s hint.

“In another words, our plan is to use its function… To awaken Eco?”

“That’s right. We are going to compress the enormous magic of the Millennium into her body and force out her true self.”

“But…Why now? Tomorrow is the continental congress ‘Elysium’, to launch such a experiment at such an important time is to…?”

“This has no longer anything to do with me.”

Dr Hoffman’s answer is no longer that of a kind old man. He just answered coldly.

“I am only following Klaus-sama’s orders. Anya-dono, didn’t you too obey Milgauss-dono’s order to capture young dragon Eco?”

“That’s… true.”

Dr Hoffman’s words were like an ice blade that stabbed into Anya’s chest.

===Part 7===
It was seven in the evening.

The masquerade, that intends to bring all the people of different countries together, had started right on time.

The venue was located at the highest floor of Fontaine Palace.

Fontaine Palace, being famous for its plain design, had only this ballroom which had been designed grandly in the Chevron style.

At the dance floor in the middle of the ballroom, ladies and their partners were holding hands and dancing gracefully according to the music tempo. Around the dance floor were also bars, tables, chairs and sofas. A number of guests were chit chatting there.

Looking at those gentlemen and gentlewomen, hiding their faces behind those masks, gathered together... Ash secretly felt that this is not a place where he belongs to.

Ash avoided the crowd nimbly and headed towards Silvia and said:

“Princess was already used to this kind of ball right?”

“You are wrong. A citizen of the Knights should be focusing on plainness… It is not our wish to organize such a noisy party… Apart from that, could you not address me as ‘Princess’?”

“Why?”

Ash didn’t know how to react to this. Silvia suddenly stood still. She was showing an unsatisfied look on her face. Because her mask had covered the area around her eyes, Ash could only judge her expression through her lips.

“What did you think this mask is for? If you kept on saying ‘Princess’, everyone will know who I am.”

“Ahh… You are right.”

“Tsk, Can’t you use some of your brains?”

“So what should I address you as?”

“Err…!”

Silvia was silenced by the unexpected question. Her face turned red in a blink of an eye.

After a few seconds, Silvia spoke:

“…You can call me Sylvie.”

The Silvia right in front of him is so very attractive it made him want to give her a hug.

“Then…”

Ash gulped.

''-Sylvie.''

His heart was jumping nonstop. Just like resonating to Ash feelings, Silvia lowered her head and acted shyly as if to prevent her heartbeat from being heard.

Ash made up his mind and spread open his dry lips.

“Silv- Uwaa!”

At this moment, Ash with a ‘Don!’ was pushed aside by someone and fell down. Before he could react, Silvia was surrounded by three men.

“My beautiful ojou-san<ref>A way to address a girl from a high family status.</ref>. Could I have the honor for you to be my dance partner?”

“Although your face is covered, the classy air around you couldn’t be hidden from my eyes!”

“Hold on! I was here first!”

Ash was dumbstruck. Even though those men have their masks on, but judging from their actions, they are not someone simple. These men should have noticed the different air around Silvia.

“Hold on… I am a little troubled by all of you inviting me suddenly…”

If it was the usual Silvia, she will tell them off mercilessly. But, right now, she is just a girl that had little experience in this world.

''-Even though she was always what you saw, actually, she is very timid and afraid of strangers''

Ash remembered what Cosette had said. She is worthy to be Silvia’s maid for her to notice all the details.

After Ash fell down, there were still men approaching her. The number of men surrounding her had increased from three to five.

Now it is ten. The voices that were inviting Silvia to be their dance partner were getting louder.

The guests around started to notice the noise and looked at them curiously.

“About that… I don’t feel like doing it now…”

Just like ants surrounding sugars, the numbers of men surrounding were still growing.

Facing all the passionate men, Silvia was being overwhelmed.

“Hey, Ash!”

But she suddenly shouted Ash’s name as if she wants Ash to come to her help.

After he made his mental preparations, Ash dragged Silvia through the walls of men.

There were sounds of disapproving from their surroundings.

“Hey, where’re your manners!”

“Couldn’t you take your turn!”

“Even though this is a masquerade, you must keep up with your manners!”

''"You are the ones who don’t have any manners…"'' Ash grumbled in his heart and kept on squeezing forward.

These weak nobles couldn’t even make a stand when they were pushed aside by Ash and they can only make way. They are at most nobles who were raised while being sheltered and protected. Naturally, they are no match to Ash and Sylvia who undergo strict training at the dragon riding academy in terms of strength.

“Waa!”

A waiter in black immediately made way to protect the expensive wine glass upon seeing Ash rushing right into him.

In a few moments, they are no longer surrounded and their field of vision widens. At the same time, the music had become louder.

“Ehh…?”

Ash stopped.

A group of people were holding hands dancing in pairs. Only then had Ash discovered they had inadvertently run out onto the dance floor.

The numerous amount of evening dresses made the scenery appear as if hundreds of flowers were blossoming at the same time.

Every time the ladies in the dance floor twirled their bodies, their long skirts turned into a giant roses.

“W-We should retreat! Princess!”

“Didn’t I told you not to call me Princess!”

“This is not a time to be arguing about those things!”

For the two to be standing in the dance floor while holding hands while arguing... Suddenly there were applauses from their surroundings.

“Wh-What happened?”

From the looks of it, they definitely want to give courage for the two to dance. It was probably Silvia's classy aura emanating from her that caught their attentions. Ash was just a side character.

“What should we do now, Princess?”

Ash was troubled and turned around to look at Silvia. Seeing Ash being embarrassed, Silvia laughs.

“Wh… What are you laughing about, Princess?”

“Nothing. Right now, we can only return the favor of the guests.”

“Ehh…?”

In opposite of what just happened, Silvia now took the initiative to hold Ash’s hands.

“Wait! I know nothing about dancing!”

“You must have learned the basics of a ballroom dance in the physical education class before, no?”

“I-I guess so…”

“Alright, everyone is looking. I will take the lead, you just have to follow.”

“Okay… I will give it a try.”

Ash imitates the guests’ actions and held Silvia’s waist with a hand. Her waist is just as thin as a doll.

Following along with the light waltz Silvia and Ash together started to move. As they began the dance, the distance between them is so near, they can feel each other’s breath. This makes Ash’s head spin. Although there were a few time where he nearly tripped over Silvia’s feet, she was not bothered by it and even covers for Ash.
[[Image:SnRK V04 167.jpg|thumb|As they began the dance, the distance between them is so near, they can feel each other’s breath.]]

Not long later, the other dancers around them, the beat of the music and the surrounding ballroom had all disappeared from Ash's thoughts.

Starting from the breath from her lips that had shiny gloss on them, the warm feeling from a tiny hand in his palm, the soft sensation he feels when their bodies occasionally bump with each other, to the rosy perfume smell...

While dancing, ash felt like he is going to faint.

As if to drag him back to reality, Silvia grumbled to Ash.

“Anyway, it was your entire fault for not positioning yourself properly.”

“…What do you meant?”

Ash asked while accidentally stepping on Silvia’s feet. Ash totally didn't get what she was saying.

“For the start when we entered this ballroom, you kept on following me from behind? No matter how I think of it, others would only see you as my follower. That's why those guys tried to approach me...”

Ash gave a wry smile.

Even at such a time as this, Silvia would only think of lecturing him. Although it fits her style well, what comes next gave ash a great big shock.

“B-But… You looked cool… Err… When you were running while holding my hand.”

“Princess…?”

“N-Nothing! Forget it!”

Silvia stopped talking immediately and focused her mind on the dance.

===Part 8===
After dancing, Ash brought Silvia to a corner of the ballroom.

Ash wished to relax for a moment from the eyes of others. He passed a cup of drink that he received from a waiter to Silvia.

“Thank you.” Said Silvia with a blushing face and she then took a sip from the cup.

Even though the ballroom dance looks graceful from afar, after trying it he finds that it actually requires a lot of energy. Ash thought.

Ash took up another cup and drank from it. The liquid in the cup was a lemon juice that tasted a little sweet and sour. He can feel that the juice was being absorbed by his exercised body.

''Anyway, shouldn’t there be any news yet from Cosette?''... Ash wonders. It had been almost an hour since he saw Cosette.

“-Excuse me, may I have a word with you?”

There was a sudden voice coming from behind that brought Ash back to his sense and he turned around-

“You…!”

Upon seeing the person, Ash lost his composure.

He hid Silvia behind him and glared at the person.

“…Have you any business to do with us?”

After Ash asked coldly, that person just replied with a smile.

“Hmm. It seems like I have become a nuisance.”

He is the young noble that they met not long before. If Silvia’s prediction was right, he is Klaus, Baron for the Vandenhaar borders. Milgauss, like a shadow, was following from behind.

Even though their earlier meeting had nearly turned into a fight, Klaus still tried to greet them on purpose. There should be a limit of how much an airhead he could be.

Klaus ignored Ash and looked at Silvia. Then he gracefully held out his hand to her.

“Your dance is excellent. I would like to know that if I had the honor to dance with you?”

“Are you kidding! What are you trying to pu-”

“Ash! Hold on!”

Silvia unexpectedly stopped Ash. After she indirectly rejected Klaus offer, she looked at Milgauss.

“If this man become my dance partner, I would allow it.”

“Haha! Who would have thought that I would be rejected while this follower is asked instead… You have quite some good eyes there.”

Not only that her actions didn’t anger Klaus, he even smiled. Silvia's words should have shattered his pride but it was like he was not even bothered by it. He looked like a proud older brother whose younger brother is admired.

“Since the lady had proposed––”

Klaus looked at Milgauss while smiling.

Milgauss remained silent. He looked as if he had merged with the mask which bears no expression. Seeing that Milgauss had not yet replied, Klaus shrugged his shoulders and said:

“Kuku. You are not allowed to decline. Don’t forget that right now you are one of my followers.”

===Part 9===
Milgauss was dancing with Silvia while holding on to each other’s hands.

It is better to describe this as a beautiful show rather than a ballroom dance.

In contrast to the attractive Silvia, Milgauss hair was still with the red and white mix color. Although he gave out a dangerous feeling, it is undeniable that the masquerade provides a cover for him.

Ballroom dancing is just a general statement. In truth, Ash knew that this dance had many elaborations that were affected by the differences in each country's culture and style.

Right now, the particular style of Milgauss and Silvia's dance is undoubtedly the traditional dance of the Lautreamont Knight Country.

Ash was so focused in their dance that he had forgotten about the previous hatred.

But Ash was not the only one who was amazed.

Without knowing, everyone was entranced by Milgauss and Silvia’s dance.

Right now, the only people on the floor dancing were the two of them.

They are occupying the whole wide space. Just like blessing them, the orchestra, coming into their own, began slowly building to a climax in the music.

Silvia was dancing swiftly yet elegantly, closely followed by the swaying movement of her evening dress.

Facing Silvia, Milgauss was leading the dance.

They looked like a combination of light and shadow, yet their dance is perfect.

“Wow… This is my first time seeing such a great dance.” Klaus, in a low voice, spoke with admiration.

Klaus was admiring the dance while standing beside Ash.

===Part 10===
The dance of the two people ended silently like a setting sun.

Milgauss remained silent the whole time. He returned Silvia to Ash just like returning a book and walked off silently.

“Certainly his indifferent attitude gives me some trouble.”

Klaus gave a mysterious smile and disappeared into the crowd while he ran after Milgauss.

Ash inspected Silvia’s face carefully.

“Have you found any clue? Could Milgauss true identity be…”

“No… I can’t be sure. Because I was very young the last time I saw Anii-ue… But, Milgauss' dance has definitely originated from the Lautreamont Knight Country. I am sure that he has a long history with the Knight Country.”

Silvia murmured.

“-Ash-sama.”

At this moment, someone whispered into Ash’s ears.

“Cosette!”

Ash turned around. Cosette was there with a straight and serious face and said:

“The maids who head the search in the ancient palace have found Prim Onee-chan.”

"Yggdrasill ~A.S.B.1365.7~" is closed.

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 6|Chapter 6]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 8|Chapter 8]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 6

2014-03-06T22:30:51Z

Aoi uchuu: Phrases, words and grammar. Caption.

==Chapter 6 - Ancient palace's abandoned garden==
===Part 1===
“Uu~n…”

Ash woke up, after touching something that felt soft and comfortable.

He felt as if he'd been sleeping for quite a long time.

There was a ticking sound coming from beside his pillow. He stretched his hand to search for the source and touched something cold.

It was the silver watch that Oswald awarded to him last night.

''-The Proof of a Dragner.''

For all the citizens of the Knight Country, everyone dreams of getting their hands on this silver watch. Ash flipped open the cover and took a glance.

The outer design was made so that the inner structure could be seen. The precise movement of the quaint yet complicated gear mechanisms, regulating each and every second, would make people stare at it in awe.

The position that the hands pointed to was twelve sharp.

“Is it already noon…”

This energetic feeling that he had after waking up might as well be the first time in his whole life.

Also what is this fruity smell? This refreshing smell had some sweetness in it and it felt like a smell that teenage girls would like.

The main point is, this bolster is very good. Not only that it is soft, it also felt warm. It also could change its shape according to Ash’s will. Just as expected of a bedding set prepared in Fontain City…

''-Stop, hold on! I remember very well that no bolster was prepared.''

When he found out in surprise that his memories contradicted with reality, Ash immediately rubbed his sleepy eyes.

“Sss… Sss…”

Prim, who was only in her underwear, was soundly sleeping right next to Ash.

The thing that Ash thought was a bolster was actually Prim’s soft body! Just like a child embracing its mother, Ash had his face sunk deep into the valley.

Ash only now realized what the extremely soft object was.

“Uwaaaaa! W-Why is Prim-san sleeping here!”

Ash jumped up in shock.

Even while someone was shouting beside her, Prim was still sleeping soundly.

“Hey… What is this ruckus about?”

There was a sound of disparagement coming from the bed beside his. It was Eco. She sat up while rubbing her sleepy eyes then she stared at Ash angrily.

For a moment, Eco’s expression froze.

“Hey… What’s the big idea? Why is Prim sleeping on your bed?”

“Please calm down, Eco! I was also wondering why!”

“Then… how are you going to explain the maid attire that is scattered all over the floor.”

Following Eco’s sight, indeed the floor was full of Prim’s maid attire.

“Hmm… I see.”

There was a black killing intent surrounding Eco and sounds like “Gggggggg” could somehow be heard.

“Hey… I had told you a few times, no? You are not my master; 'I' am the master! But you take the opportunity of your master sleeping… To lure a maid into your bed… and did things like this and that to her… No?”

Eco was still just as naïve as the time she was born, but in the last few months she had learned quite a number of things about humans. The dragons have stores of knowledge that had been passed down since ancient times–– The Dragonweiss. Eco can obtain any knowledge if she searched using it.

But Eco had obviously misunderstood.

“S-Stop! That’s not it! I did nothing! It is the truth!”

“The truth is right in front of my eyes, who would believe anything you say!”

At the same time as Eco was ticking down to explode, someone slammed the door open.

“Ash! Are you alright! I thought that I heard something weird…"

It was Silvia who banged into the room and following behind her was Cosette. They had probably heard Ash’s voice in the corridor and came to make sure.

“Hey, Ash… Why is Prim… sleeping on your bed… in only her underwear?”

Once she found out about Prim, Silvia made the same frightening expression as Eco.

The familiar lines could be heard once again.

“A knight must not commit fornication before marriage!”

Silvia was jinxing when she approached Ash with steady footsteps.

“I swear that… I’ll never forgive you!”

To synchronize with Silvia’s footsteps, Eco leaped from her bed towards Ash.

''Ahh... Stop. If you continue following this pattern there will be…''

It will be useless even if he tries to protest. Ash could only leave the rest to fate.

“I’m gonna trample you!”

“This is the Lautreamont’s family rules!”

===Part 2===
“S~sorry! It is my fault… I had mistaken the rooms and also slept on Ash-sama’s bed. I’m really sorry!”

Prim, who had finally woken up, cleared up the misunderstandings as she explained in tears.

“By the way… I wanted to inform you something about tonight’s dress code."

Cosette gently spoke as if to end the quietness:

“Tonight? Aah… The Masquerade ?”

Cosette nodded after Ash asked.

“That’s right. If it is alright, I hope that you will allow Eco to try on some evening dresses.”

“Would you also lend me some cute evening dresses this time?” Upon hearing Cosette, Eco became excited.

Right now her eyes were glittering and had totally forgotten about her anger.

“Ufufu. I have prepared some of the best evening dresses, that suit you, for this ball. But…”

“But…”

“I’m going to be busy with princess’s dressing today so the person who will assist Eco will be––“

Cosette showed a bitter smile and glanced at Prim.

“Will be in Prim’s hands.”

Eco was shocked by what she had said and immediately lost her temper.

“Hold on! This clumsy maid will be in charge of my dressing? Are you kidding me!”

“Uuuuugh” Prim, after she heard Eco’s heartless critiques, gave a deep sigh while pressing her hand against her chest.

Upon seeing that, Cosette placed her hand on her shoulder and smiled.

“Please rest assured. Although onee-chan is always clumsy, good at destroying things, frequently enters the wrong room, her brains are not that bright and also a profound lack of energy just like an human being dragged along by her breasts, but…”

“Please stop! Cosette-san! Prim-san is nearly in tears!” Ash immediately reminded her.

Cosette was still mumbling something like ''‘Ara ara, oh no’'' and immediately covered her mouth with her hand.

“H-How can you… So Onee-chan is such a person in your eyes...”

Prim, who had been crying, looked at the floor and sat down without any spirit. She could be seen mumbling with tears in her eyes with something like: ''‘Since I'm just a useless girl…’''.

“Ufufu. You should have listened until the end before taking any action, onee-chan. For a useless sister like you, you are better at picking beautiful things than me.”

“That’s absolutely correct!”

Upon being praised, just like a corpse being reborn, Prim rose up from the ground.

“Is it true…?”

Eco didn’t even try to hide her suspiciousness and glanced at Prim.

Prim, who received motivation from Cosette, was no longer in her timid self. She shook her busty chest and made the declaration.

“You need not worry about anything. I will take care of everything. I swear that I will find Eco an evening dress that suits her the best!”

===Part 3===
After lunch, Eco was dragged off to the changing room by Prim. Ash, who had nothing to do, was lazily lying on the bed.

“Guys can relax at times like this.”

Ash had decided to attend the ball using the suit that he wore yesterday when he had dinner with Oswald. The suit was hanging by the wall right now.

In conclusion, guys just need to choose a black suit to attend but it is different for a girl.

''-Knock Knock…''

Upon hearing the door knocks, Ash jumped up from the bed.

It is impossible for Eco and Prim to return this early.

“Who is it…?”

Ash was a little nervous when he couldn’t figure out who was knocking.

“Please wait for a moment!”

After informing the person on the other side of the door, Ash covered his naked left arm with bandages. To him, this could be considered a normal routine, so he only spent less than thirty seconds to complete the bandages.

There were amazing symbols that looked like several poisonous black snakes branded on his left arm.

That is the proof of Ash’s contract with the dragons––his ‘Seikoku’.

Normally, the size of a ‘seikoku’ will never be larger than the size of a palm but only Ash’s ‘Seikoku’ was so overly large. Because it looked like a bad omen, Ash had always kept it hidden.

Ash, who had already dealt with the bandages, slowly open the door.

Fragrance of roses slowly entered the room.

“Princess!”

“W-Why were you startled?”

That’s right, Silvia was standing at the doorway with a poker face. Her white blouse paired with a blue skirt- It is a fresh sight which can be rarely seen at the academy.

“Err… Can you spare me some of your time, I just wanted to have a talk.”

“Alright…”

Ash invited Silvia to enter his room after having a look out in the corridor. Luckily there isn’t a single soul in the corridor. Ash gave a sigh of relieve and quickly closes the door. ''If this scenario was seen by someone from the palace…'' Ash felt that his life was threatened just by thinking about it.

“…”

After Silvia looked around in the room, choosing––out of all places––to sit on the bed.

''-W-Why must you sit at there…! Why not on the sofa…!''

“Anything wrong? Why don’t you have a seat too?”

Upon saying this, Silvia tapped at the place beside her.

Ash gave a visible gulp while swallowing his saliva and sat beside Silvia.

“…”

Even when she came here with some intentions, Silvia’s mouth still remains shut.

“That’s it. Don’t you need to put on your evening dress?”

Ash, who can no longer bear with the silence, asked.

Silvia answered softly with her poker face:

Basically, I have already decided what to wear. But… there were some parts that were too tight. So it was brought to the tailor to have adjustments done.

“But you don’t look like you have grown fatter?”

Silvia immediately blushed.

“I’m talking about my chest! My breasts have grown since last year… Look at what you had made me say!”

“S-Sorry!”

The moment Silvia straightened her body; her beautifully shaped breasts were bouncing up and down. Ash immediately averted his eyes.

“Since it was brought to the tailor, don’t you need to wait beside?”

“The measurement has already been taken. So before the tailor is done adjusting, there is nothing that I can do.”

At this moment, Silvia was looking downwards embarrassingly, and spoke after a few seconds of making up her mind:

“Err… I want to say that, since both of us are free, we could have a little chat. O-Of course that if you feel that I am a bother, then I will take my leave…”

Ash gave a wry smile. When he saw Silvia being nervous, Ash on the other hand had calmed down.

“Nope, I am free right now. Eco and Prim aren't in and when I think about the upcoming masquerade… I don’t feel like taking a tour in the town.

“Is it so… Great.”

Silvia looked spiritless. She was no longer her usual energetic self. She looked as if she wanted to say something important but she didn’t know how to convey it. So Ash tried to give her a push.

“If you are worried about something, I will be glad to hear it out. I think that a Princess, who was born in the Royal Knight’s Family, will carry a larger burden compared to a peasant like me. So… I don’t know how much I am able to help you but I am ready to hear out what you want to say."

Silvia lifted her head and looked at Ash with her clear blue eyes. Maybe he was too sensitive towards her expression, he thought that she somehow became relieved

“I see. So it means that you are willing to listen to my troubles… No?”

===Part 4===
“Haa… This too is still lacking.”

Eco was facing some trouble in the changing room on the second floor. Because she had been searching for some time and she still couldn’t find a dress that will make her say ‘This is the one’.

“Do you like this?”

Prim was getting nervous as she rubbed off the sweat on her forehead.

“Everyone will dress themselves up to their best in a ball, no? As a noble dragon girl, how could I lose to a stupid and ignorant human. Especially that Silvia!”

Eco declared while crossing her arms in front of chest.

“Or do you think that, I, have no chance of winning against Silvia?”

“I-I daren’t say so! The thing is… I am curious regarding why are you always trying your best to compete against Silvia? Could it be… it is because of Ash-sama?”

Eco immediately blushed.

“W-W… What are you talking about! It has nothing to do with him!”

Prim bend her neck to a side and continued to stare at Eco.

“Suspicious!”

“Nothing suspicious!”

“But the relationship between Ash-sama and Silvia-sama is not something to joke about. I was shocked during yesterday’s dinner. Because it was the first time I saw Silvia-sama seem to have a close relationship with a guy when talking to him.”

“Urgh…”

After Prim finished talking, Eco felt insecure. That's right, Ash and Silvia's friendship had been getting better in recent days.

''-To leave me, as the owner, on the sidelines, to have an affair with some female animals? What is this! Why don’t I just squash him flat today!''

''No, Ash is the true owner.''

Basically, Eco knew this. Even so, because of her pride, she refused to admit it.

''Is Ash fed up with my attitude? So he rather chooses to mix with some female animals?''

''Apart from Silvia, there is Rebecca, Jessica and Lucca to name a few… There seem to be many females with great feminine charm around Ash.''

''Recently, the waitress in the student’s restaurant––The female animal who is called Anya was also a little suspicious. She kept on asking things about Ash. She probably is also interested in Ash…''

“Eco-chan, do you hate Princess?”

The sudden question brought Eco back to her sense.

“I don’t hate her… During the Selective Training Camp, she was generous enough for allowing me to ride on Lancelot. But her breasts made me mad!”

Prim smiled bitterly and sighed with a heavy tone:

“Eco-chan, you must be suffering a lot.”

“…Suffer what?”

Eco was startled.

After Prim paused for a moment, she said:

“Because… Ash-sama is a human and you are a dragon. One day in the future, Ash-sama will get married with a human girl and have children together- Aah, Eco-chan!”

Before Prim could manage to finish her sentence, Eco suddenly ran through the door to the corridor.

“Eco-chan! Please stop! I-I … Did I say something bad!?”

Prim was chasing behind her but Eco kept on running forward without even turning her head back.

''This is frustrating!''

Eco didn’t understand why she was this frustrated.

But her frustration and anger had urged her to keep on running.

She was not angry about Prim. Eco knew well that Prim said that without any bad intention.

Ash and Eco are bound together by the contract. They shared their life and death together. Eco had always believed that there is no stronger bond than this and thus she was assured of their relationship.

So she had never thought of Ash being taken away by someone.

''But- Ash is a human and Eco is a dragon.''

''Just in case what Prim stated was true…''

''If Ash fell in love and decide to settle down…''

''Then what am I to him?''

“Uuuu… ''*Hick*''”

Eco was running aimlessly in tears.

“Tsk… I already knew the answer… That guy is the real owner-”

''That’s right… In the far future I will only be treated as a pet dragon.''

As a pet, she could only wish for Ash’s happiness from the side. She will pass her days by eating when she is hungry and shake her tail when she has nothing to do just like a tamed beast…

“Urgg… That kind of life is just too sad....”

That is not the kind of love Eco wants from Ash.

Her chest felt like it was being bound tightly. It is painful. Just too painful.

With her head filled with mixed emotions, Eco was running wildly. She ran down the stairs and passed through the hall towards the entrance.

Since the ball is going to be held, the security is tighter. The guards immediately tried to stop her.

“You there! Stop!”

When her wrist was being held, Eco angrily showed her teeth. After struggling the guards were knocked away like dried leaves. One by one the guards were knocked off by Eco.

No matter how strong the soldiers are, when up against Eco, they were just like puppets.

“Uuu…”

But, this incident made Eco realize more that she is born a dragon. Just by thinking that human guys didn’t like abnormally strong girls, more of her tears flowed out.

Eventually she made it through the heavily guarded entranceway, and all at once Eco was outside of the palace.

“Hold on! Eco-chan!”

It seems that the clumsy Prim was still chasing her nonstop.

Eco was already confused about the reason that made her run. But she didn’t want Prim to see her crying face.

Just by looking at the sky she felt depressed.

The clear sky a few moments ago had suddenly filled with dark clouds as if it is going to rain anytime. The roaring of thunder could somehow be heard from afar.

Under a sky filled with ominous dark clouds Eco ran and ran without even looking back once.

Suddenly, she tripped over something.

“-Kyaa!”

Because of her strong momentum, Eco was sent flying head first. The moment she landed on the ground, her palms hurt like they were on fire.

“Darn!”

One of her mule<ref>a womens foot wear. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mule_(shoe)‎</ref> had dropped off and was lying on her ground with its bottom facing upwards just like the current Eco.

“Where am I…?”

Eco was looking at her surroundings.

Even though the area was still within the palace gardens, it was not well taken care of. It was full of weeds and not a single flower can be seen.

It can be called an abandoned garden.

There was an old double-storied building that looked like it is going to crumble anytime right in front of her. It is no different from a ruin. There was a stone tablet beside the entrance. It is obvious that ruin is an ancient palace.

She had never thought that there was such a lonely place behind the grand palace.

“It hurts…!”

The pain was coming from her palm. There was also blood on her right knee.

But Eco was sad because her favorite clothes were being dirtied and even now they were filled with mud.

This was a dress bought by Ash in Ansarivan for the trip a few days before their departure.

Eco loves the pale blue color of this dress and the ribbon at the chest.

But now it was full of mud…

Just at that moment-

''‘Click…’'' the entrance door of the ancient palace was opened followed by the sound of an old mechanism running.

A group of five people appeared from the ancient palace.

Judging from their attire, they are just the palace servants. But right away Eco knew something was wrong. Those people looked just like the palace servants but seeing their hunter liked eyes and body movements… She knows that they are not some small fry.

Eco immediately lays low hiding within bushes as tall as her.

The leader of the group looked like a girl in a maid attire. It is the same palace designed maid attire that Cosette and Prim wear.

No, although they were well imitated, Eco had seen through them.

That maid attire must be a fake. Not only did the cloth they used lack glossiness, some of the details in the attire are also different from the real thing.

Then a familiar face of the girl startled Eco.

“Why is that girl… Here?!”

''Isn’t she called Anya… the one working at the student restaurant ‘La Tene’.''

''Why would a waitress pretend to be a maid and walk around in Fountain City?''

Eco was totally confused.

Basically, Eco knew her. But right now, her instinct told her not to call out to Anya.

The Anya right in front is not the kind Anya in the restaurant. Her eyes right now are that of a warrior.

The guys beside Anya who were acting polite towards her also seemed weird.

Out of all times–– At this moment, Prim’s voice can be heard all over the abandoned garden.

“Eco-chan! Where are you?”

At that instant, at lightning speed, Anya and the others started their operations. What was most frightening is that she had unsheathed a dagger. The rest of the guys also followed her by pulling out theirs.

Right now, Eco knew she was right about Anya being the ''‘enemy’''. She immediately stood up and shouted to Prim:

“Don’t come here! Run, quick!”

===Part 5===
Not long before, the special force led by Anya had successfully infiltrated Fontaine City through a dark underground secret passage.

When she took a peek after climbing up the stairs from the passage, she realized that the exit is at the ruins of the ancient palace. She found out that the fire place in the guest-room was also connected to the secret passage.

The information about the underground passage was given by Milgauss. ''How did Milgauss get to know about the existence of this underground passage?'' Once again, Anya was bothered by this question.

The group of people had removed their battle gear. Anya had changed into her maid attire and the rest had changed into their manservant wear. All these imitations were supplied by Klaus.

Anya led her four underlings out of the ancient palace. The sun could not be seen and the grey sky made it seem like it was going to rain anytime soon.

''We must infiltrate the palace immediately…'' Anya tried to build up her spirit.

The surroundings of the old building was an abandoned garden. No matter how tight the security is at the front, they will never guess that an enemy would appear from such a place. There isn’t even a single guard here.

The next objective is to find Eco in the palace, lead her out to a quite place, kidnap and take her back to Beowolf. Only then is her mission complete.

Along the way in the abandoned garden, Anya touched her pistol hidden in her cloths. The bullets were filled with strong tranquilizers.

The special weapon was provided by Milgauss. Even though it is a tranquilizer... it will still be a lie if she says she will not hesitate to shoot a girl like Eco.

“Chief, anything wrong?”

Anya came back to her senses after being questioned by an underling.

“…Nothing.”

That’s it, she mustn’t forget that she is leading a team right now. As a chief of the Tantalos tribe, she is also the leader of the special force at the same time. If she was not focused on her mission, her whole team will be in danger… After some thought, she made up her mind.

Right at this moment.

“Eco-chan! Where are you~?”

Suddenly, there was a panicking voice that was spoken slowly.

A maid appeared right in front. When she saw Anya and the rest, she became confused.

Anya realized something. ''This maid shouted Eco’s name a few moments ago. So she must be one of Eco’s acquaintances…''

No matter what, she mustn’t let loose of this opportunity. As long as she captures this maid and interrogates her, she probably could save her trouble for doing land combing in search for Eco.

Anya signaled her underlings behind with her fingers and immediately unsheathed her dagger.

Under Anya’s directions, the four underlings immediately split up.

They intend to surround the maid.

“Don’t come here! Run, quick!”

The voice that suddenly came out of nowhere shocked Anya.

That cry sounds familiar.

“That’s young dragon Eco.”

Her underlings stopped their footsteps at the same time upon hearing Anya’s shout.

At the same time, there was a lightning strike and the sound of thunder. The sound of thunder that seemed far away a few moments ago was slowly but eminently approaching.

“All of you, go and capture Eco! I will deal with the maid!”

Under Anya’s order, the underlings had shifted their targets. All four of them attacked Eco at the same time.

Even though she is a dragon, she looked like a girl. It should be an easy job for four big burly Tantalos man. After Anya made the positive judgment, she attacked the maid.

“Huh? What is happening- Ouch!”

Anya punched the maid in her stomach. The maid lost her consciousness and dropped on the ground.

“Hmph, the citizens of the Knight Country are really weak.”

The same time Anya snubbed her nose, thunder roared and the drizzling rain turned into a down pour. The coldness of the rain doesn’t make the season feel like summer.

Anya, thinking that her four underlings should have kept Eco in control, turned her head to look.

“Wha…!”

Anya shivered when she saw the scene behind.

“…Tsk, this is why I hate stupid and ignorant humans.”

Not only Eco wasn’t captured, she was even standing in the middle of the garden in rage. Her hair is wet and messy from being dripped on by the rain but her red eyes were full of spirit.

Three of the special force members were already on the ground.

“Damn you brat…!”

The fourth member lifted his dagger and attacked Eco directly. Seeing that his companions were knocked out, he had lost his temper.

Suddenly Eco leaped. She flew up in front of him, before the dagger struck, and gave him a punch in the stomach.

''“*Cough*!”''

Even though it seems like a girl struggling to escape... For her underling was like being attacked by a bull and was easily knocked back. This scene is what someone can find in a story book.

''-Is that… The so called power of a dragon!?''

Anya shivered.

Even when her pure self made her look fragile, the truth is Eco's strength is unimaginable.

“If you don’t respect me… Then get ready to be trampled!”

The guy was lying on the ground weakly and full of mud. Eco stepped on his back without mercy.

“Ouuuu!”

After the last underling cried in pain, he lost consciousness.

After making sure that the guy had fainted, Eco stared at Anya angrily.

“Aren’t you Anya? Why do you pretend to be a waitress in the student restaurant?”

Anya remained silent. There was no need for her to answer. She silently put on her fighting posture.

“Is it… So I take that you are not going to tell me. Never mind, that’s not so important anyway.”

Eco immediately prepared her defense.

For a short moment, it looked like a dragon had appeared behind her body.

“I have never liked you since then. You seemed to be interested in Ash!”

Eco rushed towards Anya while splashing water all around.

Her wrist strength is very strong.

If she was hit, Anya would probably follow the footsteps of her four underlings.

''But-!''

“No matter how strong your strength is, there is no point if you can’t land a hit!”

Anya twisted her body to one side getting out of the way of Eco’s head-buttt.

“Urgh…”

Eco, who nearly fell because of her momentum, immediately turned around and faced Anya again. She had now changed her weapon into her fist.

Anya dodged her first punch by just a few millimeters.

''-Don!''

The wind pressure of the punch swept passed her face painfully. This straight punch looks as if it can cut through rain. It felt as if the wind pressure of the punch is strong enough to blow a human off his feet.

No wonder her four underlings were easily knocked out. But Anya had not yet broken a sweat. Her ability is greater than all the four guys who were still the top in the tribe.

“Damn… why can’t you just get knocked out!”

Eco angrily swung her fist again but in Anya’s eyes, she was no longer a frightening enemy.

“…Urgh!”

Eco, who through a miss, was tripped by the mud and lost her balance.

The afternoon thunderstorm had not yet stopped. Anya had long found out that the ground was slippery, but Eco, who is only a few months old, probably didn’t notice these details.

Seeing Eco’s defense is exposed, Anya takes the chance.

“Haa!”

She gave Eco a kick with all her might behind her neck.

Her foot had knocked in to Eco’s neck with water splashing everywhere.
[[Image:SnRK V04 137.jpg|thumb|After Anya took out the pistol, she pulled the trigger without a single hesitation.]]

If she was to be a normal human, Eco would be knocked out of conscious in just a second.

“Urgh… How dare you kick me!”

“It can’t be!”

Anya was shocked.

Eco nearly fell, but managed to stand still with only will power. She was staring at Anya with tears in her eyes.

Her face that was wet with the rain water is full of killing intent.

“I swear I’ll, I’ll… Trample you!”

Eco while showing her teeth rushed towards Anya. Not only did she have huge amount of strength she is also as hardy as a dragon. But Eco attacked aimlessly just like a trapped animal. If this fight continues... it probably won’t end before the night arrives.

Anya made a search in her cloths with her hand and felt something cold. If it is possible, she will never chose to use this thing, but she mustn’t waste any time anymore.

“…Please don’t think badly of me.”

After Anya took out and aimed the pistol, she pulled the trigger without a single hesitation.

===Part 6===
After Silvia finished her story, Ash was in a great shock.

Ash absolutely couldn’t believe what he heard. Milgauss is most probably Prince Julius––this was what Silvia had said.

Of course Ash knew that Julius was sentenced to death for committing a taboo. That can be said as the worst scandal in the long history of the Lautreamont family.

“But Prince Julius… Wasn’t he already sentenced to death?” Ash asked, still doubting the statement.

But Silvia continues on mumbling her explanation:

“The information about him being sentenced to death may be fake. Chichi–ue is that kind of a person… he would never kill his own son. The truth is, I am very happy that Anii-ue is alive. I also believe that he must have his own reason for killing Mordred. But… why is he cooperating with the Empire and bringing disasters to the Knight Country? This is the only part that doesn’t make sense. What should I do…”

Silvia pursed her lips and looked downwards without saying a word. Just by thinking about the burden and her troubles Ash felt that his head is starting to spin. But, seeing Silvia being troubled by her worries, Ash knew that he can no longer remain silent.

“Actually… I didn’t quite remember what my father looks like.”

“…?”

Silvia lifted her head and looked at Ash confusedly.

“Even though it is not right for me as a son to say so, but my father was an odd person… He disappeared after my sister’s birth. Somehow, my family talks less and less about him. As for why would my father leave us… I had been wondering about this for ages, but I can’t simply ask this question. One day… I finally asked my mother out of curiosity.”

“Did she tell you anything?”

“No, she didn’t even mention a single thing. But she promised me that she will tell me everything when I grow up. This is also the reason why I have never asked about it since.”

This is the first time Ash had the chance to talk about his family background, so he is a little shy. Still, he is happy that Silvia listened to him attentively.

“In the end… What I wanted to say is, your problem won’t be solved if you keep it all to your self. If you have the time to feel sad, why not directly ask the person involved. Isn’t that better?”

“If I could do it, I wouldn’t be facing all this trouble… But what you say is reasonable.”

Silvia had regained her happy expression.

“Thank you, Ash. With your encouragement, I feel that the burden has somehow lifted.”

Her cute-ish smile made Ash’s heart beat nonstop. Silvia’s impression within the academy was the ‘Graceful but unapproachable beautiful princess’. Who would have known that she can make such a smile.

In this instant, there was a bright light coming from the sky and the next second, the thunder was roaring.

The loud sound felt as if it had landed right beside them. Ash turned his gaze to look outside the window and found it to be raining heavily.

Then, he finally felt the smell of the rain.

“Kyaa!”

Just as expected, Silvia who was born timid immediately screamed. She was so frightened that she lost her sense and cuddled in Ash’s arms.

“Uwaa…!”

Ash was shocked and fell on the bed with Silvia hugging him.

Silvia was trembling and cuddled to Ash tightly. On her snow white face, there falls the shadows of her long eye lashes.

“…Princess?”

Even after Ash called out to her, Silvia still remained silent. She shut her eyes tightly and embraced Ash. Just like a child, she was trembling nonstop.

There won’t be much of a problem if it's only to this extent. But ash felt something soft that shouldn’t exist in this world. That is certainly not something that can be felt from a child. It is Silvia's breast which was pressing tightly against Ash’s body.
[[Image:SnRK V04 002-003.jpg|thumb|'' The lightning strikes for two, three times. Every time it strikes, Silvia trembled a little and tightens her hug… Both of them had remained in the same position for some time.'']]

The lightning strikes two, three times. Every time it strikes, Silvia trembled a little and tightens her hug.

…Both of them remained in the same position for some time.

“Are you alright, Princess?’

When the sounds of the thunder and the winds had stopped, Ash slowly asked. If Silvia kept on sticking to him, he felt like his heart is going to burst. So, Ash pretended to give Silvia a gentle push and sat up.

“Nn…”

Silvia was lying on the bed when she opened her eyes that were shut close for a long time. There were tears at the edge of her eyes which was probably from the tremendous fear that she had just been through.

“Wha…!”

Silvia who finally calmed down immediately blushed. She probably had realized the situation that she was in.

As a princess, she was lying on a bed defenseless while being looked at by Ash-

''-T-This is bad.''

Ash had made his mental preparation for the coming ‘fist of the Lautreamont Family Rules’.

Although he did nothing wrong, through his past experience, he was already used to this kind of ending. Basically, everything will end after that fist.

But, Silvia was still lying on the bed with her red face.

Ash felt that her eyelashes were shaking.

“Princess…?’

Ash looked carefully at Silvia.

In contrast to a ferocious Dragner, her limbs were thin and nicely shaped. The two lumps of meat at her chest were moving up and down following her breathing tempo…

In this instant, Ash felt that his mind was going to crack.

Silvia was not wearing a bra right now. The pink tips could somehow be seen underneath her blouse that was covered in sweat and was breaking down Ash’s mental reasoning ability.

''Why is Silvia not moving?''

''Why is she not in her usual angry self and try to hit me?''

''What if I try to touch her right now?''

''-N-No, I mustn’t! Princess right now is… Is worried about Prince Julius so she couldn’t think straight. For me to take advantage of others at such moment… I can never do this. Not even in a million years…''

''-Kon, kon.''

There was someone knocking the door.

Although it just a usual knock, but in this situation, the sound was piercing Ash’s ears.

“…Urgh!”

Silvia had probably thought the same thing. Just like the magic had disappeared, she jumped off from the bed.

“Sorry for intruding.”

The person outside entered before Ash replied.

It was Cosette.

“The evening dress has been altered. I am here to pick up Princess.”

The way Cosette speaks was unnatural and way too formal. She probably had seen through what had happened between Ash and Silvia.

“...Understood. I will head there right now.”

Silvia kept her calm and followed Cosette out of the room.

“Haa…”

Ash felt that he had lost his energy and fell on the bed.

If he had more courage, if Cosette didn’t intrude––

Silvia and He, who were on the bed would probably…

“Uwaa! What am I thinking about!”

Ash was rolling around on the bed.

He really wanted to get rid of this trouble. Too bad for him that the bed was full of Silvia’s smell, which caused him to get more and more jumpy.

He kept on recalling the rose fragrance, the glimmering golden hair and the soft peaks.

As he was rolling around, Ash saw the bed beside him.

Eco and Prim still haven’t returned from the changing room.

His worry suddenly disappeared.

“What is taking Eco so long?”

"Black Prelude ~A.S.B.1365.7~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 7|Chapter 7]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 5

2014-03-06T18:05:00Z

Aoi uchuu: Phrases, words and grammar. Caption.

==Chapter 5 - Mordred's tombstone==
===Part 1===
''- Stop it! Please stop…!''

Ansarivan, the academy city, was destroyed right in front of Silvia.

It was an act of utter destruction.

In St Durham square, a place for the public to rest, there is a huge –gray– beast the Necromancia attacked with a crazed like frevor.

For every step the Necromancia made the buildings collapsed fragilely like logs.

Silvia’s legs felt weak and slumped to the ground.

"Princess, please pull yourself together!"

Even when Ash was shouting by her side, Silvia was scared and did not respond.

''- Aaa..... a dream?''

Silvia was looking at the past events from up high. She felt ghostly.

''- How embarrassing for me to actually become paralyzed while sitting on the ground......''

Silvia high up in the air felt that ‘useless’ is the only word that can be used to describe herself.

How useless I am, no wonder Ash scolded me.

"What are you joking about...... what sort of princess are you! Which royal knight family are you from! If you really are an excellent royalist, then prove it to us!"

Ash lifted his right hand.

"Sorry but no offense!"

Just like what she remembered, Ash slapped Silvia in the face.

Thanks to that ruthless blow, Silvia manage to escape from the shackles of fear, and was determined to fight side by side with Ash.

Even though that incident had happened just a few months ago, it already felt like it had been years past.

She has a feeling that it's probably because she had lived her life to the fullest for the past few months. Furthermore, after the birth of Eco, there were many changes in her academy life that had happened.

''-Why is it so?''

Silvia suddenly felt something was not right.

From this perspective, when she was looking at the Necromancia, she felt something.

''-I recognize the Necromancia? How could......''

Logically speaking, this is the first time Silvia witnessed such a creepy monster.

In fact, she had never seen such a large, black haired dragon in her entire life.

However, Silvia now felt that the Necromancia looked very familiar.

''-Could it be!''

Silvia have an idea

Once she had figured it out, she was thinking that how could she be this slow.

''- Is it Mordred!?''

Mordred was brother Julius’s Pal, but was personally killed by Julius.

''- Yes! That face and actions...... indeed they look like Mordred's! I was too careless, how could I not realize it earlier!''

===Part 2===
The morning of the fifteenth day of the month of cancer.

“Mordred!”

I had finally discovered a crucial clue! Silvia, at the same time, jumped out from her bed.

“Er… I’m at…?”

Silvia did not feel quite right.

The scenery in front of her eyes was not the familiar ceilings of the Epona’s house.

After she looked around again, Silvia finally remembered....

"I had forgotten...."

…This is Silvia’s bedroom in Fontaine City. Silvia was lying down, on a bed with a covered top, and surrounded by luxurious curtains.

"Are you awake, Princess?" Cosette prompted.

Cosette, who was waiting in the room, slowly pulled back the bed curtains. Silvia felt relieved after she saw her gentle smile.

“Morning, Cosette.”

"Good morning, princess. Just now, I thought I heard you shouting a guy’s name.... Even when you have secretly promised yourself to Ash-sama, yet you are still thinking of another person. I felt contempt with princess’s unfaithful behavior."

Unfortunately, these few words from Cosette had disrupted Silvia’s calm mood.

"N-Nonsense! Mordred is a dragon's name!"

"Hehehe, just kidding, but you did not actually deny the sentence "secretly promised yourself to Ash-sama"."

Silvia’s cheeks suddenly became hot.

"It is nothing like that! It is because there were so many aspects for me to comment on, I had just forgotten about it!"

“Then I’ll try to believe that what you were saying was the truth. Hehehe.”

After Cosette purposely laughed, she pulled back the entire curtains of the bed. Then she walked towards the window and pulled back the curtains covering the windows.

The next moment… Glaring rays of morning sunlight flooded into the room.

Silvia, getting down from her bed, spoke behind Cosette:

"Hey, Cosette. Before breakfast, I would like to visit someplace first."

Cosette smiles while answering.

"It is my responsibility to take care of Princess. I will be happy to follow Princess even to both ends of earth.”

===Part 3===
Not many people can be seen early in the morning in the Fontaine city’s town center.

The shops also seem to be closed today. A empty street full of a light cooling breeze, suits this late spring season well.

Silvia put on the dragon riding hat to shade her eyes and she also wore her nondescript academy uniform.

By just seeing Silvia’s attire no one on the street should be able to figure out that she is the fourth princess. In direct contrast to that Cosette, following right behind her, who is wearing Royal maid attire and looked a lot more striking.

There are occasions where the watchmen will approached them for a safety check, but as long as Silvia lifts her hat to expose her face––

“Aren’t you Princess! I’m sorry for bothering you!”

Everyone without exception will apologize while bowing and then immediately buzz off.

Later, Silvia arrived at the mausoleum area at the west side of the city.

This is not a common mausoleum, but a special one that is used as a graveyard for the dragons.

There were two guards on duty at the entrance to the mausoleum.

“…?”

Silvia was confused.

There were never any guards in this area. There isn’t anything that’s worthy to be stolen by thieves in this mausoleum.

“Princess? Why would you come to this type of place?”

The two guards, reacting just same as the previous watchmen, allowed Silvia and Cosette to enter the mausoleum.

“Lets go, Cosette.”

“Yes, Princess.”

Silvia decisively stormed into the mausoleum.

It is said that Mordred’s ashes were placed in the underground of this mausoleum. Perhaps the reason Paladin Oswald did so was to bury the name Mordred along with its ashes.

After walking for some time down the stone stairs, Silvia arrived at her destination.

Unexpectedly, there were already visitors at Mordred’s tomb.

A woman in armour.

Who was accompanied by a thin and tall knight and...

A woman the height of a child.

There was also a basilisk standing behind the small sized woman. Even though a Basilisk is said to be of the same species as an Asia it looks quite a bit different. It is a beast with the appearance of a lizard.

If it is possible, Silvia wouldn’t want to meet with the three people and the beast. That’s because there’s always trouble whenever she meets them.

“Ane-ue! And also… Glenn-dono and Avdocha-dono!”

Upon hearing Silvia’s greeting, the three of them turned their heads back at the same time.

Veronica was the first to speak among the three.

“Aren’t you Silvia! Why do you come to this place?”

Veronica eyes were as cold as they used to be, like an eagle who found its prey. Even though Silvia trembled, she still replied calmly.

“I’m here because I remembered something. Ane-ue why are you here? Anyway… let alone Glenn-dono, why would Avdocha-dono also be here?”

“What! Are you not satisfied that we are together? Do you want me to tear your clothes into two again? Do you want to show that pair of cow like breasts in front of your ex-fiancé?..."

"''Ouch!''"

Veronica, without any warning, knocked Avdocha’s head with her Gauntlets on, which made her cry in pain with tears in her eyes.

That punch should hurt a lot… Silvia had tasted the pain from the pair of knuckles numerous times. Silvia pitied her anyway.

“Avdocha, when were you given the right to lecture my sister.”

“Uuh. You tyrant! My head is now swollen!”

The small lady, Avdocha Kiltzkaya, was called ‘Avdocha The Convict’ by the public but was really an ex-terrorist and now actually the leader of the Foreign Force in the service of Knight Country. Previously, during Veronica’s visit to Ansarivan, she had caused many troubles for Silvia.

“Yes, so you still have extra energy to talk nonsense.”

“Ouch! D-Don’t hit my head anymore or else I won’t be able to grow taller!”

“You are already passed twenty years-old and yet you are still thinking of growing taller? What a joke?”

“Don’t be mean!”

Even Avdocha can’t do anything when facing Veronica. Because she looks like a child, it appears like a kid being scolded for some pranks.

“Its been a while, Princess Silvia."

Glenn greeted and bowed in front of Silvia, without being bothered by Avdocha’s and Silvia’s argument. He is still the same beautiful guy that will make your eyes glitter.

Glenn was Julius’s best friend and also Silvia’s ex-fiancé. Even after their marriage had been canceled, but it's still embarrassing to meet like this.

“Glenn-dono, I’m happy to see you in the pink. But back to the topic, why are you here?”

“I’ll answer that question.”

The armour on her body made a clear loud sound when Veronica turned around. Just like she had lost interest in a toy, Avdocha was left by the side.

Veronica with a tone as heavy as her armour said:

“Actually, Mordred’s ashes were stolen.”

“When was it stolen?”

“We are not sure about the time. Anyway no one would expect that anyone would want to steal ashes. This mausoleum didn't even have guards before this. Maybe… Maybe They were stolen years ago and it's just that we did not realize it.”

“…Then how did you found out about it now?”

“Of course the biggest clue is due to the Willingham Mausoleum incident. The enemy is obviously using the ashes of the dragons as materials to make their weapons. That’s why I had given the order to check on every mausoleum that has a dragon tomb.”

“And the one who was in charge of the checking was the Foreign Force led by me.”

Veronica was not bothered by Avdocha, who seemed to want some sort of a reward, and shrugged her shoulders.

“…And the result is just like what you can see.”

“What do you mean?”

“The things are just like what I had expected. Many sets of dragon bones and ashes have been stolen from all over the country,”

“How could it be…”

Silvia was clenching her teeth.

The enemies’ movements were not just a step ahead, but two or three.

This type of cowardly technique must be from the Zepharos Empire. For it is they who understand that ‘Machines will never be able to win against the dragons’.

“There’s another thing, Silvia. I had heard about your heroic fight at the Willingham Mausoleum while riding on Lancelot. I’m proud of you.”

“Ee...”

For one moment, Silvia didn’t understand what Veronica was saying.

Only after a few moments later, she finally felt it from the bottom of her heart.

''That’s right... Veronica praised me.''

“Thank you anee-ue.”

After Silvia thanked her while smiling, Veronica’s face turned red and she turned it aside.
[[Image:SnRK V04 105.jpg|thumb|By the way… I have something to tell anee-ue.]]

“Hmph... don’t get overjoyed yet. You are now still a little chick and your priority is to strive towards an Ark-Dragner. Then we will remove that bastard Oswald from his throne.”

“A-Anee-ue...”

Silvia felt troubled.

Veronica totally hated her father, who acts like nothing but a commoner, to the extent where she will even call him ‘bastard’.

“By the way… I have something to tell anee-ue.”

Silvia showed a serious expression.

Perhaps that Veronica felt an abnormal air around Silvia, she silently nodded and allowed her to continue to speak.

“It is something related to anii-ue. A few days ago, I met a guy called Milgauss at Willingham Mausoleum. He is the Empire’s henchman.”

“I have a report regarding that man… so, what has he to do with Julius?”

“Please listen to me calmly. Even though this is just my intuition… I think that Milgauss is anii-ue.”

“Nonsense!”

The person who shouted loudly wasn't Veronica but the quiet Glenn who was standing behind her.

“Glenn-dono?”

“It’s impossible! That man is still kicking… and has become an active spy for the Empire… That’s absolutely outrageous!”

Silvia could understand how Glenn felt. Glenn and Julius were best friends all the time they were studying in Ansarivan.

“Generally speaking, what proof do you have Silvia-sama-”

“––Keep your cool Glenn––<ref>This is written in order form.</ref> The person who you are speaking to is my sister.”

Veronica was like a beast trainer, trying to tame a beast, when lecturing Glenn.

“I’m… Sorry.”

Even a person like Glenn knelled down and apologized on the spot like a beast being whipped.

“I still have something to report to anee-ue. You had just said that Mordred’s ashes were stolen… After some careful thought, the Necromancia that attacked Ansarivan looked a little like Mordred.”

Veronica was stunned upon hearing.

“…Silvia, you mustn't tell anyone about this. Even just the possibility that Julius is still living will have a great impact on the Knight family. Plus Mordred, who is now suspected to be the Necromancia, is another problem… This information should be kept confidential. Do you understand?”

“Yes… Anee-ue,”

Silvia immediately promised without a second thought.

===Part 4===
Silvia parted with Veronica and the rest at the entrance of the Mausoleum.

“We’ll now head back to town.” Silvia said to Cosette.

“Yes princess. We still have not yet decided what you are going to wear tonight.”

“For the masquerade…? Sad to say, but I’m not longing for it.”

Silvia sighed.

“Ara? This is a good chance to invite Ash-sama. Anyway, this is a masquerade. The difference between social statuses can be temporally cast aside. You just need to become immersed in the atmosphere… Then the two of you will be at the balcony alone after the dance. With the holy rays of silvery moon light as a romantic setting, both of you will kiss passionately while hugging each other tightly.”

“What nonsense are you mumbling about! You have been reading too much of those third grade novels.” <ref>Third grade is considered low grade (or third-class, whereas first-class is the highest) ''––and it usually means hentai''. For those who don’t know what hentai mean… err… google it…</ref>

Silvia’s face suddenly became as if it was on fire. After she scolded Cosette, she remembered the scenario during dinner time yesterday.

Oswald suspected that Ash and Silvia don’t have a simple relationship. Ash who was interrogated in the end swore that he will never touch even a single strand of Silvia’s hair.

''"Princess and I...... Are not in a relationship!"'' The words that Ash used to beg Oswald kept on repeating in Silvia’s mind.

''Paladin? He is just a useless guy! But Ash was so scared that he used ‘not in a relationship’ as a shield!''

Silvia was getting mad just thinking about it.

But what confuses her most are her own thoughts. She just heard the words ‘not in a relationship’ but why was she this mad about it.

“Arrgh! I can’t stand it! What’s wrong with me!”

Cosette, while looking at the troubled Silvia, smiles knowingly.

“Princess has also already begun the journey of youth!”

"Reunion ~A.S.B.1365.7~" is closed.
<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
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| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 6|Chapter 6]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 4

2014-03-05T23:46:27Z

Aoi uchuu: Phrases, words and grammar.

==Chapter 4 - Beowolf's conspiracy==
===Part 1===
Anya, who also traveled to the Lautreamont capital city of Fontain, met with Milgauss as she had originally planned.

Since last month, they had not met for an extended time. However, today, Milgauss doesn’t seem to be quite right.

Although his true face is still covered with the same silver mask, he wrapped a dark cloak around his body even on this hot summer day.

Ignoring Anya’s questions he said. "..Come with me."

Milgauss then led her down numerous back alleyways. They kept hidden, with the use of an underground secret passage, sneaking pass Fontain city’s stronghold.

Along the way they were not bothered by any guards, even when it should be a period of martial law.

Anya was thinking while walking along the passage.

''- What connection does Milgauss have with the Knight Countries....? A mere peasant wouldn’t know the existence of this underground secret passage.....''

''In fact, let alone the public, there ain’t even a single guard here. Is this a passage used by the royals to seek refuge.....?'' Anya thought of this possibility.

''If it is so, why does Milgauss know the existence of such a route?''

"We are going to climb upwards."

After hearing Milgauss’s whisper, Anya cast aside all the distractions. There is a stone staircase in front of them.

Anya stared after she had reached the surface from the underground secret passage.

She is at an apron specifically for the use of landing and docking aviation ships.

The first ship that greets her eyes is the Zepharos mega airship–– Beowulf's Bow.

As for Chevron’s airship Crown Solas, Holy Espada Agency’s shrine ship Esperanza and Lautreamont’s airship Silvanus, are lined up together side by side at some distance away from Beowulf.

It is as if Beowulf had been isolated.

On the other hand, at the other end of the apron, Fontain city stands majestically in the night full of lights.

After Milgauss gave a glance at a castle, he silently headed towards Beowulf.

===Part 2===
Inside the Beowulf- Milgauss and Anya came to a room where it was labeled "war room" in the Empire’s language. After entering the room, a young noble stepped forward to greet them.

"Phew..... I had waited a long time for you, Milgauss."

The young guy’s hair is blonde and he had a pair of gray eyes. He is such a beautiful guy<ref>美男 binan, beautiful man, something you can usually see when reading Josei manga. </ref> that someone will mistake him for a chick.

At the same time, he can be seen as someone who practiced martial arts. Despite his slender body being wrapped in overly decorated clothing, his lean physique can still be seen.

''- This man is Klaus, Vandenhaar’s border’s baron....!''

She had once heard about this man's deeds before. Now, this being the first time she saw him, Anya gasped in his presence.

He is the head of the Viderhausen family and also the ruler of the Vandenhaar. At the same time, he is also the patron for Milgauss. Even though he was still a young man in his twenties, but he is now at the same level as an officer in the Empire’s army.

Not only that, this time, he is also preparing to attend as an agent for the Zepharos Emperor in the Continental Congress ‘Elysium’...

"Ah! My Milgauss! You really came!"...

Klaus placed his glass on his table, stood up and hugged Milgauss.

''- What....! T-Two men hugging together! Or...... is it normally used in the Empire as a greeting?''

Anya who stood by the door blushed.

"Well, this room is really...! ...filled with steel and greasy smells. Can you even imagine how I feel while I was waiting for you? What took you so long?"

"I was forced to, since the Continental Congress is around the corner. The security outside is very tight. I had to wait until nighttime to make my move."

"Hmm, you're also right."

After Klaus released Milgauss, he spoke while smiling.

“I’ll first hand your new left arm to you.”

Klaus pointed at the steel box on the table.

"This is the latest model sent from the Empire. Its strength is enough to even match a chariot."

"I’m really grateful for it."

After Milgauss thanked him, he placed his hand on the box.

A heavy metal sound can be heard when he opened the box.

Regardless of how you look at it, the object in the box is a 'human arm'.

“Hik…”

Anya almost screamed and she quickly covered her mouth. With a closer look, at the end of the arm, there is an electro-mechanical-like object.

''––Mechanical...... prosthesis?''

Klaus for the first time looked at Anya who was holding her breath.

"Are you the girl from the Tantalos tribe? I have heard about you."

"Y-Yes! I’m Anya, leader of the Tantalos tribe.”

Anya stood at her spot and nervously replied. After all, he is Milgauss’s patron and she shouldn’t be rude.

"Hmm. From the surprised reaction, about Milgauss’s left arm, it seems that you are still in the dark."

"Left arm ......?"

Anya was puzzled.

She happened to catch a glimpse of Milgauss throwing off his cloak on the floor from the corner of her eyes.

"...!"

Anya's eyes widened.

Milgauss’s left arm is without its lower half starting from his elbow.

The long empty sleeve was swinging. Anya then realized why Milgauss felt he had to cover his upper body with the cloak.

"It happened ten years before. A guy who had lost his name, status, fame, and his left arm strayed into our home territory. He, who had committed major taboo in his homeland, was cursed––"

"Cut the crap, Klaus."

Klaus’s story came to a halt when Milgauss scolded. Anya was a little disappointed. With just a little bit more, she might have found out more of Milgauss’s past.

"Oh, I’m asked to stop. It's a pity, right?"

“N-No… Nothing.”

Anya felt embarrassed. She felt that she cannot hide anything when being watched by Klaus.

"By the way, ojou-san, your muffler is really special, is that part of your folk costume?"

A sudden change of topic stunned Anya.

Regardless of what season Anya always has the muffler with her, as if it was part of her body. When she removed the muffler to disguise herself as a town girl or a waitress, the empty feeling around her neck made her felt insecure.

"Yes, in the mountains, there is a custom where different clans exchange their children to conclude a peace agreement. When I was given to another clan when I was a child, I already had this scarf.... In other words, this muffler is a proof of which clan I was born in."

"Hmm, I am always madly in love with beautiful things. Beauty can overcome anything, do you not think so? I kept Milgauss by my side just because of this reason."

"Err......"

Anya was dumbfounded. What is this person actually talking about?

"Ahh..... What is there to be dumbfounded of. Your muffler is very unique and really beautiful-"

"You have gone off topic Klaus, quickly take out the device."

Milgauss who had turned around and faced them had put on his prosthesis arm.

===Part 3===
Klaus led Milgauss and Anya to the armory. Anya thought that would look like a warehouse. When the elevator doors opened, she was shocked.

The wide armory was located at the back of the ship. It was even big enough to rival the city hall.

This place was supposed to be designed to park the combat-aviation-ship's armored vehicles and also for storing ammunition. But there were no weapon-like objects that could be seen.

However, deep in the armory, there was a machine that looks like an ‘infidel’s altar’.

“That is…”

After walking over, A streamlined-shaped container was fixed above Anya. It was about ten meters above the ground.

It looked like a single-seater aviation ship’s cockpit, but its exterior was beautifully decorated. Normal weapons simply cannot be compared with it.

However even though it had a god like beauty, there is still a dark feeling lurking from inside. When carefully observed, it seems more like a coffin and gave off a chilling feeling.

There were many cables hanging from the bottom of the capsule which most connected to a single mechanical device on the ground.

Looking at the whole picture, the huge device can even match with an adult dragon. The side of its body was studded with numerous large pieces of Bright Dragon Crystal.

''- This is a magic guided device....!''

At the same time Anya gasped, Klaus talked to her:

"Have you found out about it, ojou-san? This is the same type of device as with Milgauss’s ‘Tyrfing’."

When she heard the word ‘Tyrfing’ Anya was still wondering about it, but soon remembered... ‘Tyrfing’ should be the huge sword that Milgauss used when summoning the Necromancia.

Klaus walked to the side of the huge device.

“Thanks for your hard work.”

Right now there were a few researchers close the device as well as ten or so other technicians were working elsewhere in the otherwise empty armory. The researchers were dressed in white robes, while the technicians were dressed in work clothes.

"It is rare for Klaus-sama to come personally..."

An old man who was thought to be the leader bowed respectfully.

"Yo, Dr. Hoffman. How is the progress?"

"As you can see, the assembly work is almost finished. We have now entered the final inspection stage. It is just that...... Since that device runs with the Millenium as a power source, you must be careful with it. Final inspection is bound to finish sometime during night."

Anya wondered if she heard it wrong. The Millennium–– a rare mineral which was formed when the body of a dead dragon was buried in the ground for a few thousand years. The vast majority of it was used as the fuel for Airships.

"After the inspection period ends, the experiments can be carried out tomorrow afternoon. Alternatively, if my lord can help prepare the experimental material, then...."

After listening to Dr. Hoffman’s report. Klaus revealed a satisfied smile.

"No problem, we will help prepare the experimental material. Please continue with the operations."

"Of course, Klaus-sama."

After Dr. Hoffman bowed again, he returned to the device.

Klaus again looked at the device with an attitude of reverence.

"It was a beauty unto the extent where it cannot be described... The ancient civilizations' skills were really amazing. It felt like it was far beyond the scope of a human’s capabilities. Hey, Milgauss, come here and have a look too."

Milgauss silently walked forward and stopped beside Klaus’s shoulder.

Klaus was in a trance.

"Magic guided device ‘Yggdrasil’.... I chose its name. Do you not think that this name suits it well?"

Contrary to Klaus, Milgauss answered coldly.

"The name doesn’t matter. The problem is whether it can be used or not."

"Hehe. That answer really suits your style. Frankly speaking, in the past, when this device was unearthed from ‘Xonotone Ark<ref>The ARK here is a ship not an armour</ref>’, no one knew its true purpose. When Beowulf’s engine was excavated, the empire’s nobles were all excited. But nobody was interested in ‘Yggdrasil’. Thanks to this, I bought it for a cheap price."

"How can those guys understand the true value of this device."

"Haha, you're quite ruthless. Anyway, I'm surprised by your knowledge! Because you had only read the limited information in the reports you still knew of ‘Yggdrasil's’ nature immidieatly. But I personally still doubt it. With this device.... can we really force young dragon Eco to be awakened?"

"––!"

Anya, who overheard Milgauss and Klaus’s conversation from behind, shuddered.

After listening to Klaus, Anya only understands the contents of her mission. In fact, Milgauss hadn’t even told her about her mission yet.

''––Is the prey, that is going to be put in the capsule.... young dragon Eco?'' Anya felt her spine freeze.

She remembered Eco’s big innocent smile, while eating meat in the students’ restaurant, which surfaced in her mind. At least, as far what Anya knows, Eco... is only a naive and gluttonous little girl.

Although her temper is bad, she is still a young dragon born only a few months ago. She was also welcomed, by a lot of the students, as a mascot of the student council.

It is difficult for her to link Eco and such a dark experimental device together!

''––Why is Milgauss-sama so persistent about young dragon Eco? He even makes use of the Continental Congress.... The value of the little dragon girl... Is it worth the risk to make this barbaric move?''

Casting aside Anya’s obvious distrust, Milgauss and Klaus continued to talk.

"You don’t have to bother with this so much, Klaus. You just need to have faith in me."

"Wow. What confidence."

"As long as you follow what I say, it is just a matter of time when you will gain control of the dragon’s power. Even the next Emperor's throne is at your fingertips."

''Next Emperor-'' These unexpected words tighten Anya’s facial muscles.

"I’ll be waiting for the day when your promise comes true, Milgauss. So then, Ojou-san.”

Anya was shocked by Klaus who suddenly turned his attention back to her. Klaus’s handsome face, just moments before, was now like a ghost.

"By hearing our conversation just now, you should know what your mission is ... Right?"

"Capture.... young dragon Eco?"

"Correct answer. Milgauss... you have a very good underling."

Despite being praised, Anya was not quite happy.

"The Melancholy of Anya ~A.S.S.1365.7~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 3

2014-03-05T14:08:55Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases.

==Chapter 3 - Paladin Oswald==
===Part 1===
Cosette led Eco and Ash to the dining room.

Ash is now wearing a formal suit. After they returned to the castle, Cosette forced him to change his clothing even after his protestations. The matching black suit, shirt, a silver tie, and she even produced a pair of polished shoes for him.

''"Hum, hum, hum~..."''

Eco on the other hand was dressed in a rose white dress, humming a song while walking, her entire body was covered with laces, flounces, gemstones and other matching accessories. Her hair was also combed in a mature style complimenting her dress. She now looked very much like a Princess.

But Eco had her attention placed on tonight’s menu and questioned Cosette about it on their way there.

"Hey, is there any delicious meat?"

"Of course, the highest quality frozen beef is waiting to be served."

"What you just mentioned...... is it a Chevron cow?"

The sound that Eco made by swallowing her saliva can be heard clearly by Ash.

"Not only it is a Chevron cow, but I also heard that it has a blood relationship certificate of a virgin cow."

"...... What is a virgin cow?"

"Tee Hee. It means it had the same soft and tender meat as Eco."

Once again, Cosette unmasked a playful smile and then pinched Eco’s upper arm. Eco quickly dodged aside and her whole face was already red.

"C-Could you be...... eying my flesh?"

"Well, what do you think? Hee hee......"

Ash smiled at the teasing argument. After a long walk, they finally came to an open space.

It seems to be a lounge with impressively high ceilings.

Cylindrical pillars were arranged along the walls. In the middle of the room were sofas and chairs. The fireplace was visible from the front of the room.

There are doors on each side of the fireplace. Behind the doors should be the dining room.

"I beg your pardon for asking you to meet with my father's unreasonable demands."

From Ash's point of view, there seems to be a pale blue flower blooming in the shadows of a pillar. Silvia, who arrived first, quietly stood up from her chair.

"Princess......!"

Ash was fascinated with Silvia’s ice blue colored dress.

The cold colored clothes made her blond hair and white skin even more dazzling. Standing in front of him was a person––who usually hid behind her usual strict and arrogant attitude at school, but was now––presenting herself in a more regal manner.

"Huu? Anything wrong with you, Ash?"

Silvia was confused.

"Nothing, but...... I think that you are beautiful."

"Wha ......!"

Like a volcanic eruption, Silvia's cheeks immediately flushed. She silently and shyly faces downwards.

"Hey......"

At this moment, Ash sensed a murderous intent rapidly arising from behind. Ash nervously glanced back and saw Eco angrily walking towards him.

"When I had put on my dress ...... you didn’t even say a word of praise!"

"Y-You are of course also very beautiful."

"To say those hypocritical words right now, I won’t even be happy about it!"

Eco snappily looked aside to ignore Ash and she took a glance at Silvia's chest.

"Hmph...... I understand. In the end you still like female animals with big boobs! You like those that feel soft and very elastic when touched, right!"

"I had never said such thing! Why do you need to bring up that topic!"

Ash had also gotten angry.

"Boo hoo ~! I had finally found you!"

At this time, the sound of crying had broke the tension.

"Ash-sama and Eco...... how could you even... silently sneak back home!"

Prim was running back while breathing heavily. Not only are her eyes were red and swollen, she is also breathless.

"Oh god......!"

Ash then remembered the stuff that he had totally forgotten. That’s right, right before they entered the mall, they left Prim beside the trees next to the street.

"I'm sorry, Prim-san!"

Ash was sincerely apologizing to her by bowing down. Seeing Prim’s crying face, even Eco is affected.

"I'm sorry ......"

Although Eco was still angry, at least she gave a verbal apology.

Only then Ash found out the situation they were in before Prim came into the picture had completely disappeared.

Cosette said to the sobbing Prim while smiling: '''(!)'''

"Poulin-oneesan is really amazing. You had cleverly grasped the timing for your appearance."

Upon hearing this, Prim only replied with a confused expression.

===Part 2===
"Hoh? So you're that famous Ash? Hmm, you look talented! So the one beside should be Eco, right? Wow! You really do have horns! It's amazing!"

To Ash's surprise, Paladin Oswald was a person who was readily approachable. Logically speaking, he should have been entering his old age, but his round face still looked very smooth and shiny.

"It should be very tiring for you to come all the way here from afar. Well, well, no need to be so polite, make yourself at home."

There were only the four of them attending such an amazingly long dining room table. Cosette and Prim were standing behind Silvia and Ash looking solemn

On the other hand, behind Oswald, there's a maid who was wearing spectacles. She is Florida.

After they finish their prayer to the Virgin, the dinner officially began. The first course was soup.

Because Ash was overly nervous… the taste of what he is eating was almost completely lost.

At the same time, Eco, who is beside Ash, placed her plate on the table with a loud bang.

"The soup is not bad, but is the meat done yet?"

Eco didn’t use her spoon and directly finished the soup in one go. On her nose and mouth whitish soup stains could be seen.

"Uwaa, Eco ......!"

Prim quickly helped Eco to wipe her face with a napkin.

"Eco! You are being rude!"

Ash was sweating.

"Ha ha! Don’t worry. There is no need to impose human etiquette on a girl who is a dragon."

Oswald gave a laugh and ordered Florida who was behind:

"It seems that Eco-san is not satisfied with this style of eating. Go and tell the chef, serve all the food that has been prepared right away."

"Yes, sir."

With a serious look, Florida marched off toward the kitchens.

"Hmmm, I was asking myself what kind of pretentious person the Paladin would be, but I didn’t expect that you to be quite friendly. I like you!"

Eco put on her egoistic manner of speaking.

"To be appreciated by a dragon girl, I am very proud. I must enjoy the night."

"Father...... Look at you, even the Paladin title is going to be in tears. Can’t you display a little of a ruler’s dignity?"

Silvia unhappily complained to Oswald. Without knowing whether she had no appetite or she was silently protesting, she just sipped a mouthful of the soup and put her spoon aside.

"What are you talking about? If not for the dragons, I'm afraid this continent would have long been dominated by the Empire. For me to respect Eco-san isn't anything other than proper. Ha ha ha!"

After Oswald let out a laugh with a loud voice, the waiters, one by one, brought out various cuisines and wine bottles.

"This fried steak is made from the Chevron’s virgin cow.”

A waiter said, while placing a plate in front of Eco.

"Waa......!"

In front of the thickly cut steak, Eco’s eyes brightened. Without using the knife, she took a fork, directly stabbed and lifted a slice of meat, and then swiped a huge juciy bite out of it.

"Nn......!"

The next moment, Eco reacted as if she were shocked by electricity and her body twitched. After biting into the thick cut of meat, she didn't move an inch.

"Hey ...... are you alright?"

''Does it not suit Eco’s taste?'' After Ash questioned her, Eco suddenly relaxed the muscles of her body.

"Oooh...... I'm so happy ~"

Ash smiled. She should have been overjoyed. She is almost over the moon.

"Hehe...... She is still the same old Eco."

Silvia who was glum before also smiled softly. It was probably because of Eco's innocent reactions that she was able to forget about her anger.

Fortunately, after seeing Silvia smile, Ash also felt released from the tension.

===Part 3===
Silvia while sipping on her drink, quietly watched Ash.

''- In all fairness, this scene is unexpected......''

In the recent months, Ash had quite an incredible performance, to be able to receive father’s praise is really what he deserved.

But for a student, who is also a normal civilian, to be invited into the castle to have a meal with the Paladin on the same table is really strange.

At the same time Silvia bears these feelings, Oswald finally smiles while asking Ash some questions..

About Eco’s birth.

About the Ark that Eco created.

About the battle that occurred in Ansarivan and Willingham Mausoleum...... and so on.

Ash seems to have expected that he would be asked these questions, and his answers to them were orderly.

Also, the formal suit gave a bonus effect, Ash looked incredibly manly tonight. Gradually...... Silvia's cheeks became hot.

''- W-What’s wrong with me ......? Why is it that every time I look at Ash...... my feelings become so complicated?''

Her true feelings, from the unsettled depths of her heart, were only trying to express themselves.

And these strange thoughts made her confused.

"If not for you and Eco-san, Ansarivan, the training camp at Allonnes lakeside and the Willingham Mausoleum may have been razed to the ground. I thank you for all this."

Oswald gave a bow.

As a king of a country, he even actually bowed to a normal citizen.

"...... Father?"

Silvia immediately came back to her sense and stared at Oswald.

"Uwaa! Please stop bowing! I can’t afford to have it!"

Ash was frightened. He quickly stood up in order to avoid letting Oswald stand alone.

However, the real shock is yet to come.

The declaration that Oswald made after he raised his head was beyond Silvia’s imagination.

"So, starting today, you're a Dragner."

"Thank you-...... Hu! I am a Dragner?"

"What is there to be surprised about? For this sole purpose, I summoned you to this city."

Oswald looked calm.

At that moment, Silvia realized what Oswald meant by saying, ''“As a Paladin, I think there is a suitable reward for him”'', when she returned to the castle.

Silvia thought to herself.

''- How unfathomable is Ash's development?''

Eco was just born three months ago. Logically speaking there was still a great deal of room for her to grow.

''When Eco reaches her adulthood, how powerful a Dragner would Ash become……?'' Silvia couldn’t even imagine.

The only certainty is that–– In Lautreamont Knight country, even a civilian, as long as he can get the Dragner’s title, will become highly respected. If he can continue to become an Ark-Dragner, he could even gain the same status as a noble. Through this method, a wedding with one of the royals is no longer a dream......

''- M-Married? W-What am I thinking about!''

"Are you alright, Princess? Your face is red."

Cosette casually whispered from behind, which made Silvia panic.

"N-Nothing!"

After all, Oswald was also present, so Cosette did not continue to pursue this behavior any further.

===Part 4===
''-Starting today, you're a Dragner.'' Ash suspected he might have misheard what Oswald had said.

"But...... isn’t it only a Maestro’s rider who's qualified for the Dragner’s title?"

"Ash, I’ll ask you. Do you dare to say that Eco-san is not a Maestro?"

Oswald glanced at Eco. Even under this tense situation Eco was still happily eating without even bothering the others.

"I......"

Ash was speechless.

Because Eco's appearance was always in the form of a girl, in the end Ash was clueless about what kind of dragon she might be.

The only clue was the title "Avalon's Imperial Princess".

"As the Paladin, it is my obligation to give you a reward for your accomplishments. I don’t deny that this has never happened in the past, but since I had already decided on the matter, from this day onwards you are a Dragner. Florida, prepare the item."

"Yes, sir."

The statue-like Florida suddenly moved.

Without Ash noticing, Florida was now holding a plate in both hands. Placed on the plate was a pocket watch engraved with the Knights’ royal family’s crest.

"I, in the name of Paladin Oswald, appoint Ash Blake as a Dragner."

“At your majesty's service.”

Ash knelt on the spot and respectfully took the silver watch.

"The Continental Congress is around the corner, the city is now busy at the moment...... the official appointment ceremony will be held separately, please accept the silver watch and bear with it for a few more days."

"I-It’s my pleasure!"

The words ‘appointment ceremony’ made Ash shudder. And in his mind, the image of the two statues previously seen in the central square––Chevron’s King Lionel III and the first generation Paladin, Paladin Durham––naturally entered his thoughts.

===Part 5===
When the dessert was served, Silvia suddenly remembered something and blurted:

"Chichiue, I have heard that the Zepharos Empire’s emperor will not attend the Continental Congress. Is this true?"

"Hmm. He turned down the invitation because of old age. Actually, elderly Ortofon VIII <ref>オルトフォン</ref> is already 80 years old...... the problem is that he even refused to send a prince or a princess to represent him. Their way of doing things is somewhat disagreeable......"

"Who did the Emperor choose to be his representative?"

"I heard that it is the head of the Viderhausen house. Since ancient times they have been the barons and warlords for the Vandenhaar borders for generations."

While listening to the Silvia’s and Oswald’s talk, Ash pictured the continent’s map.

Vandenhaar is a land of the empire. It is located on the other side of the mountains and it is near the Lautreamont Knights Country.

"To actually allow an ordinary noble to represent the emperor...... they are a little too arrogant! It seems that the Empire has not yet given up the fight to take over the continent. The Necromancia is also probably their––"

At this time, Oswald with his rarely seen father's attitude, scolded Silvia.

"Silence Sylvie. There are some things that cannot be spoken of. The other party indeed is very suspicious, but our main priority is to communicate. Whatever it is, we cannot let the tragedy of the Xenoglavia’s War repeat itself. The Continental congress ‘Elysium’ was created solely for this purpose."

"...... What you are saying is correct."

Silvia nodded seriously. It seems that she was reminding herself not to be careless the next time.

Then, like wanting to sweep away this tense atmosphere, Oswald smiled.

"Right! About tomorrow’s masquerade I would like to invite Ash and Eco-san to join. What do you think about it?"

"What is that? How does it taste?"

Eco asked, while touching her bulging belly.

Masquerade? This was also the first time Ash heard about this topic.

"Hmm...... You all don’t know? Tomorrow night’s masquerade is organized to cordially promote national relations."

"Tomorrow? I remember that the Continental Congress will be held the day after tomorrow, right?"

Oswald nodded while answering Ash’s question.

"That's right. In other words, this ball is like a prelude before the congress. Even though the congress only allows the leaders of each country to attend, it is different for the ball. Every person, together with their leaders, is eligible to participate."

"But why do you need to hold the masquerade? A mask is meant to cover your face. No?"

"It was arranged so that the participants would eliminate the gap between countries. To put it bluntly, the mask is a tool to help us to express ourselves."

“I see…”

Ash certainly understand the reasons for organizing the masquerade. But was it really ok for himself and Eco to attend such event? After all, it is a party meant for VIPs of all countries. He had the feeling they'd be out of place.

Silvia probably noticed Ash’s concerns, so she gave him a boost.

"You and Eco are close to me, so of course you are eligible to participate."

"Princess must also be participating, right?"

"Yeah...... basically."

From her answer, it seems that Silvia is not at all excited about the ball. Compared to those kinds of gorgeous balls, it's presumable that she would be more interested in riding Lancelot and soaring high in the sky.

"Eco, have you decided?"

Ash tried to seek Eco’s views.

"As long as there is meat, I don’t think that there is anything bad by attending."

After he heard his expected answer, Ash smiled.

"Then it's decided! Please enjoy tomorrow’s ball! Anyway, Ash...... there is one thing that I would like to confirm with you clearly."

Oswald suddenly leaned forward.

"Wh-What is it?"

Oswald’s eyes were now emitting a very serious feel. 'So this person can also display a such a serious side'...... Ash thought rudely.

"I’m thinking...... You still haven’t had any impure relationship with Silvia, have you?"

"......Hu?"

"Veronica is also very worried about your relationship with Sylvie."

"Chichiue! What nonsense are you talki..."

Silvia, whose face was already red, was trying to refute, but......

"Silence!" Oswald gave a loud shout, like a raging thunder god.

Silvia didn’t even dare mutter a single sound. Indeed, he is the one whose title is Paladin, so being able to display such a forceful attitude was expected......

"Ash, you must know this clearly. I’m really grateful for your help, but you must not confuse it as permission to begin a love affair."

"Err ......"

"If you dare put your claws on Silvia...... I, Oswald swear, that I will personally sanction you! Do you dare to swear? Swear that you'll never touch my Sylvie by even a single hair?"

The fat round face is pushed in front of Ash was menacing and forced him to answer. It was simply torture.

"I swear, I’ll swear no matter what......!"

Ash, who lost under Oswald’s pressure, screamed out loud.

"Princess and I...... Are not in a relationship!

"...... Do you really mean it?"

"Please, please believe in me! Princess please also help explain the situation!"

The only one in this world who is able to stop her father’s jealousy was Silvia. Ash was likely hoping to seize that last hope, looked at Silvia for help, but––

"............"

Silvia’s face somehow looked a little guilty, and she quickly averted her sight.

"You are the Dragoner! ~A.B.S.1365.7~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Names and Terminology Guidelines

2014-03-05T12:17:56Z

Aoi uchuu: Vandenhaar = ヴァンーデンハル

This page is a list of unique/semi-unique terms and names for translators and editors to maintain consistency with. If anything significant needs to be done, such as any large additions, disputes to listed translations to a term or name, or formatting issues, please feel free to post them at the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=5484 Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi] discussion thread.

==Format Standard==
===Style of English===
All edited translations are to be in British English.

===Narrative Tenses===
Translators are allowed to use whichever tenses they need, so editors have to fix any errors for tenses when you find one. Narrative tense should be in past tense. Narrative does not mean the character dialogues.

===Stuttering===
If the word is a proper noun, proper adjective, or common nouns used as essential parts of proper nouns the stuttered words should be in capital letters.

Example 1: “B-Bucho, what is it?”

If the stuttering occurs at the beginning of the sentence and it is not a proper noun, proper adjective, or a common nouns used as essential parts of proper nouns, then the first stuttered letter should only be capitalised while all the other succeeding letters should be in lower case.

Example 2: “Eh? B-but, don’t you have to get yourself a husband?”

If the stuttering occurs in the middle of the sentence, then everything should be in lower case letters.

Example 3: “I've g-got to p-pick up a new b-book on vampires, m-myself.”

===Japanese Honorifics===
Since there are no equivalents to Japanese honorifics in the English language, Japanese honorifics will be kept.

===Japanese Loanwords===
There are some words in the Japanese language that do not translate into the English language, for such instances it is recommended to keep the Japanese loanword. For example, Torii.

===Translation Notes===

==Names==
===Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy===
'''Ash Blake''' (アッシュ・ブレイク ''Asshu Bureiku'') - The male protagonist. A first-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and (later) head of General Affairs in the Student Council. Known as the "Number One Problem Child" among students. Has a bandage on his left arm where his larger-than-normal Seikoku is located. Has the ability to ride on any dragon, which for most is impossible since dragons only allow their masters to ride them.

* Class: Breeder (Vol. 1-4)→Dragner (Vol. 4-8)→Ark-Dragner (Vol. 8 onwards)

* Nicknames
** Number One Problem Child in the academy(学院一番の問題児 ''Gakuin Ichiban no Mondaiko'')
** Silver Knight (銀麗の騎士 ''Shirubā Naito'')
** The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon
** Avalon Knight (アヴァロンの騎士 ''Avaron no Kishi'')

* Equipment
** Aix-les-Bains (エクス＝レ＝バン ''Ekusu Re Ban'') - Ash's first Ark Weapon, a greatsword with the power of light. Used in Vol. 1 to send a Necromnancia to rest.
** Brionac (ブリューナク ''Buryūnaku'') - Ash's second Ark Weapon, a sacred gun that shoots powerful ice magic that can freeze anything. Used in Vol. 2 against Avdocha.
** Excalibur (エクスカリバー ''Ekusukaribā'') – A two-handed sword that can only be wielded by an Avalon Knight. It can cut anything, even if the blade doesn’t really reach.
** Escavaron (エスカヴァロン ''Esukavaron'') - Ash's magicship.

'''Eco''' (エーコ ''Ēko'') - The main female protagonist, Ash's dragon partner in the shape of a petite girl. Has a brash and prideful personality, and refers Ash as her "dog" despite him being her master. Loves to eat crepes. Later becomes Student Council's mascot.

* Nicknames
** '''Eco Pendragon Aurora Christa Lena Angeles Iria Lorence Liliane Muirel Octavia Robertine de la Rosa L'Espérance van Compostela de Avalon''' (エーコ・ペンドラゴン・アウローラ・クリスタ・レーナ・アンヘルス・イリア・ロランス・リリアーヌ・ミュリエル・オクタヴィア・ロベルティーネ・デ・ラ・ローザ・レスペランス・ヴァン・コンポステーラ・ド・アヴァロン ''Ēko Pendoragon Aurōra Kurisuta Rēna Anherusu Iria Rolansu Ririānu Myurieru Okutavia Roberutīna de ra Rōza Resuperansu van Konbosutēra do Avaron'') - Full name
*Spell to make the Ark
**Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas,Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes, Espolón.
*Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family's Imeprial Princess.

'''Silvia Lautreamont''' (シルヴィア・ロートレアモン ''Shiruvia Rōtoreamon'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Fourth Princess of Lautreamont. Head of Disciplinary Affairs in the Student Council. Her dragon partner is Lancelot, a Maestro (Strada).

* Class: Dragner (Vol. 1-7)→Ark-Dragner (Vol. 7 onwards)

* Nicknames
** Ice Blue Princess (蒼氷の姫君（アイスブルー・プリンセス） ''Aisuburū Purinsesu'')
** Princess (皇家 ''Himegimi'')
** Sylvie

* Equipment
** Arondight (アロンダイト ''Arondaito'') – Silvia’s Ark Weapon that is a hybrid weapon between a halberd and a gun. The halberd form can be used for close-range combat, while the gun form can shoot magic bullets with attribute of the Bright Dragon Crystal it fires.

'''Rebecca Randall''' (レベッカ・ランドール ''Rebekka Randōru'') - Third-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and President of the Student Council. She is an Ark-Dragner, and is known as one of the strongest Dragners in Ansarivan. Her dragon partner is Cú Chulainn, a Maestro.

* Class: Ark-Dragner

* Nicknames
** Scarlet Empress (真紅の女帝（スカーレット・エンプレス） ''Sukāretto Enpuresu'')

* Equipment
** Gáe Bolg (ゲイ・ボルグ ''Gai Borugu'') – Rebecca's Ark Weapon. A spear with enormous destructive power that never misses its target when thrown.

'''Raymond Kirkland''' (レイモン・カークランド ''Reimon Kākurando'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and one of Ash's friends at the boys' dorms. A self-proclaimed "ladies' man". His dragon partner is Brigid, an Asia.

* Class: Breeder

'''Maximillian Russell''' (マクシミリアン・ラッセル ''Makushimirian Rasseru'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Student Council Secretary. Another one of Ash's friends at the boys' dorms. His dragon partner is Arianrhod, a Maestro.

* Class: Dragner

* Nicknames
** Max (マックス ''Makkusu'')

'''Jessica Valentine''' (ジェシカ・ヴァレンタイン ''Jeshika Varentain'') - First-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and childhood friend and rival of Rebecca. She is a devoted fan of the "Silver Knight", Ash's armored form, and is the founder of SKFC (Silver Knight Fan Club). Her dragon partner is Rhiannon, a Hydra.

* Class: Breeder

'''Lucca Sarlinen''' (ルッカ・サーリネン ''Rukka Sārinen'') - Third-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Owns Gawain, a Maestro.

* Class: Dragner
** An Eckbald. Commonly known as the 'forest Yōsei'

'''Oscar Brailsford''' (オスカー・ブレイスフォード ''Osukā Bureisufōdo'') - Second-year student at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy and Vice-President of the Student Council. The Prince of the Chevron Kingdom and a Dragner, as well as the only Dragner who is the heir to the throne. His dragon partner is Tristian, a Maestro.

* Class: Ark-Dragner

* Nicknames
** The Baron of Sonic (音速の貴公子（ザ・バロン・オブ・ソニック） ''Za Baron obu Sonikku'')

* Equipment
** Failnaught (フェイルノート ''Feirunōto'') – Oscar's Ark Weapon. A magical bow that never misses its target when fired.

===Lautreamont Knight Country===
====Lautreamont Royal Family====
'''Oswald Lautreamont''' (オズワルド・ロートレアモン ''Ozuwarudo Rōtoreamon'') - The King of Lautreamont and a Paladin. He’s a fat man who isn’t even a Breeder. He adores Silvia greatly.

* Class: Paladin

'''Julius Lautreamont''' (ジュリアス・ロートレアモン ''Juriasu Rōtoreamon'') - Former crown prince of Lautreamont who was supposedly executed for killing his own dragon.

* Nicknames
** Dragon Slayer (竜殺し（ドラゴンスレイヤー） ''Doragon Sureiyā'')

'''Veronica Lautreamont''' (ヴェロニカ・ロートレアモン ''Veronika Rōtoreamon'') - The First Princess of Lautreamont. A fearsome warrior who once killed 100 men without losing. Is hinted to have a sister complex towards Silvia.

* Nicknames
** Ironblood Valkyrie (鉄血の戦乙女（アイアンブラッド・ヴァルキリー） ''Aianburaddo Varukirī'')

* Equipment
** Claymore
** Silvanus (シルヴァヌス ''Shiruvanusu'') - Veronica's peronsal airship. Named after Silvia.

'''Cassandra Lautreamont''' (カサンドラ・ロートレアモン ''Kasandora Rōtoreamon'') - The Second Princess of Lautreamont.

* Nicknames
** Diabolic Belladonna (魔性の妖花（ディアボリック・ベラドンナ） ''Diaborikku Beradona'')

'''Mirabel Lautreamont''' (ミラベル・ロートレアモン ''Miraberu Rōtoreamon'') - The Third Princess of Lautreamont and headmaster of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

* Nicknames
** Argento Magus (銀光の賢乙女（アルジェント・メイガス） ''Arujento Meigasu'', lit. "Silver Mage" in Italian)

====Citizens====
'''Cosette Shelley''' (コゼット・シェリー ''Kosetto Sherī'') - Silvia's maid.

'''Primrose Shelley''' (プリムローズ・シェリー ''Purimurōzu Sherī'') - Ash’s exclusive maid and Cosette's older sister. A useless clumsy maid who was doing chores onboard the ''Silvanus'' before Veronica chased her out to Ash.

* Nicknames
** Prim (プリム ''Purimu'')

'''Avdocha Kiltzkaya''' (アヴドーチャ・キルツカヤ ''Avudōcha Kirutsukaya'') - Veronica’s underling and leader of the Tantalos Tribe. She can control Basilisk. Also Anya's older sister.

* Nicknames
** Avdocha the Convicted (断罪のアヴドーチャ ''Danzai no Avudōcha'')

'''Glenn McGuire''' (グレン・マクガイア ''Guren Makugaia'') - Veronica's knight and Julius' best friend.

* Class: Arc-Dragner

* Equipment
** Caladbolg (カラドボルグ ''Karadoborugu'') – Glenn’s Ark Weapon. A greatsword.

'''Orletta Blanc''' (オルエッタ・ブラン ''Oruetta Buran'') - First class messenger of the palace.

'''''' ('''') - The leader of the Holy Dragners of Lautreamont.

'''Eunice Shelley''' (ユニス・シェリー ''Yunisu Sherī'') - Mirabel’s exclusive maid. Originally an orphan before being adopted by the House of Shelley.

'''Angela Cornwell''' (アンジェラ・コーンウェル ''Anjera Kōnweru'') - An advanced-level teacher at Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. 25 years old. She used to love dragons but could not become a Breeder after not being chosen by Mother Dragon, so now she loves dissecting them instead. Has taken an interest in Eco and tried to dissect her in her introductory chapter but was stopped by Ash.

===Zepharos Empire===
'''OrtofonVIII''' (オルトフォン VIII ''Ortutofon VIII'') - the Emperor.

'''Klaus Viderhausen''' (クラウス・ヴィターハウゼン ''Kurausu Vidāhauzen'')
*Count of the Vandenhaar borders. (ヴァンーデンハル)
* Equipment
** Beowolf (ベオウルフ ''Beourufu'') - Klaus' airship.

'''Milgauss''' (ミルガウス ''Mirugausu'') - A mysterious masked man serving the Zepharos Empire. Wields Tyrfing, a sword that has the ability to create Necromancia.
*Real name- Mordred.
*Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king family's descendant.

'''Anya''' (アーニャ ''Ānya'') - Milgauss' subordinate and a member of the Tantalos Tribe. Works at Café La Tene. Also Avdocha's younger sister.

* Nicknnames
** '''Shamara Kiltzkaya''' (シャマラ・キルツカヤ ''Shamara Kirutsukaya'') - Real name

'''Kriemhild''' (クリームヒルト ''Kurīmuhirudo'') - A blind girl with power of "Pluto's Children" (冥王石の仔ら（プルートゥ・チルドレン） ''Purūtu Chirudoren''), which allows her to control dragons.

===Chevron Kingdom===
'''Zacherias III''' (ザカライアスIII世 ''Zakaraiasu Sansei'') - The old King of Chevron at 100 years of age.

'''Uriel Alfred Seevers de la Rosa Chevron''' (ユリエル・アルフレッド・シーヴァース・デ・ラ・ローザ・シェブロン ''Yurieru Arufureddo Shīvāsu de ra Rōza Sheburon'') - The Third Prince of Chevron. He coincidently became a crown prince after the First Prince fell in love with a girl and died of madness and the Second Prince fell in love with a commoner girl and disappeared.

* Equipment
** Crown Solas - Uriel's magicship.

'''Celestina Lafon''' (セレスティーナ・ラフォン ''Seresutīna Rafon'') - Oscar's exclusive maid and a former underling of Uriel. She also has the power of "Pluto's Children".

===Holy Espada Agency===
'''Raquel IV''' (ラクエルIV世 ''Rakueru Yonsei'') - The Pope of Espada and Mirabel's student.

* Nicknames
** Innocent High Priestess (至純の女教皇（イノセント・ハイ・プリーステス） ''Inosento Hai Purīsutesu'')

* Equipment
** Esperanza - Raquel's sacredship.

'''Penelope del Monde''' (ペネロペ・デル・モンテ ''Penerope deru Monde'') - Raquel's attendant and leader of the Holy Wing Imperial Knights of Espada.

===Labrock Trade Union===
Caudillo Enzo Sabatini

===Dragons===
====Main Dragons====
'''Mother Dragon''' (マザー・ドラゴン ''Mazā Doragon'') - An enormous dragon who gives dragons to the chosen Breeders during the Orphan Ceremony. She resides in Albion Forest.

'''Navi''' (ナヴィー ''Navī'') - A being residing in the Dragon's Workshop. An older version of Eco.

'''Mordred''' (モルドレッド ''Morudoreddo'') - Julius' former Maestro and the series' main antagonist. He was killed by Veronica but was revived as a Necromancia by Julius (now Milgauss).

'''Nuada''' (ヌァザ) - A dragon residing in the Willingham Mausoleum.

* Nicknames
** Willingham Dragon (ウィリンガムの竜 ''Wiringamu no Ryū'')

====Dragon Partners====


Lancelot (ランスロット ''Ransurotto'')

Cú Chulainn (クー・フリン ''Kū Furin'')

Brigid (ブリギット ''Burigitto'')

Arianrhod (アリアンロッド ''Arianroddo'')

Fergus (フェルグス ''Ferugusu'')

Rhiannon (リアンノン ''Riannon'')

Gawain (ガウェイン ''Gawein'')

Tristian (トリスタン ''Torisutan'')

==Countries and Locations==
''Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi'' takes place in the continent of '''Ark Strada''' (アルク・ストラーダ大陸 ''Aruku Sutorāda-tairiku''). The continent's shape closely resembles a dragon spreading its wing.

===Countries===
'''Lautreamont Knight Country''' (ロートレアモン騎士国 ''Rōtoreamon Kishi-koku'') - the main setting of ''Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi''. Located in the dragon's heart.

'''Chevron Kingdom''' (シェブロン王国 ''Sheburon-Ōkoku'') - Largest country of Ark Strada. Located in the dragon’s upper body to the chest.

'''Zepharos Empire''' (ゼファロス帝国 ''Zefarosu-teikoku'') - An industrial country in an adversarial relationship with Lautreamont and Chevron. Located in the dragon’s lower body from the chest.

'''Labrock Trade Union''' (ラブロック商工都市連合 ''Raburokku Shōkōtoshi-rengo'') - Located in the the dragon's tail.

'''Holy Espada Agency''' (エスパーダ聖庁 ''Esupāda-seicho'') - Located in the dragon's wing.

===Locations===
'''Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy''' (アンサリヴァン騎竜学院 ''Ansarivan Kiryū-gakuin'') - Special school where students with dragons train to become Dragners. Located in Lautreamont.

:'''Apollo House''' (アポロ舎 ''Aporo-sha'') - Advance course Boys' dormitory
:'''Epona House''' (エポナ舎 ''Epona-sha'') - Advance course Girls' dormitory
**Merk for Basic course
:'''La Tene''' (ラ・テーヌ ''Ra Tēnu'') - A café
:'''Seventh Dragon House''' (第七竜舎 ''Dainanaryū-sha'') - Dorm for Ark-Dragners
:'''Julius Hall''' (ジュリアス館 ''Juriasu-kan'') - Former Student Council building named after Crown Prince Julius, who was the Student Council's President at the time. Abandoned 10 years ago after the incident with Julius, but has now opened as the Student Council's base of operation again.

'''Fontaine City''' - The capital city of Lautreamont. Fontaine Palace, the Grand Palace, is located there.

'''Ecbald Village''' - A village in Lautreamont where Lukka and her clan live.

'''Dragon's Fang''' (竜牙亭 ''Ryūga-tei'') – Ansarivan’s luxurious hotel. It’s renowned for its menu of delicious gourmet foods.

'''Fianna Forest''' – The forest where Dragon Riding Festivals take place.

'''Albion Forest''' (アルビオンの森 ''Arubion no Mori'') – The forest where the Mother Dragon resides. Children in Lautreamont at the age of seven must participate in the Orphan Ceremony to be chosen by the Mother Dragon to be Breeders.

'''Norg Forest''' (ノーグの森 ''Noogu no Mori'') – The forest beside Allonnes Lake.

'''Willingham Mausoleum''' (ウィリンガム霊廟 ''Wirigamu-reibyō'') – The tomb of a young dragon that existed since ancient times. Located on the border of Lautreamont.

'''Albion Church''' – The church located in the entrance of the Albion Forest. It manages the Orphan Ceremony as well as protects the forest.

'''St. Durham Square''' (聖ダーラム ''Hijiri Dāramu'')- The place of the attack of the Necromancia.

'''Danebury''' (デーンベリー ''Deenberii'')- a commercial city west of Ansarivan.

'''St Valeria’s Church''' - The church where 'Avdocha the Convicted’ attacks.

'''Allonnes lakeside ''' - The place where the training camp is held.

'''Rubina Lake''' (ルピニア湖) - A lake ...

==Terminology==
===General===
'''Seikoku''' (星刻, lit. "Star Marking")

'''Dragweiss''' (竜種の記憶（ドラグワース） ''Doraguwāsu'', lit. "Record of the Dragon's Legacy") - A spirit library for dragons, with the information dating back centuries. Newborn dragons can easily access the Dragweiss.

'''Dragon Workshop''' (遣竜工房 ''Kenryū-kōbō'') - A special realm where Navi resides in. Created by the ancient Maestros.

'''Orphan Ceremony''' (オーファンの儀 ''Ōfan no Gi'') - A ceremony where children who are seven years of age are given larva from the Mother Dragon. Only a select few are chosen.

'''Ansal Herb''' (アンサルハーブ ''Ansaru Hābu'') - An herb that grows indigeneously in Lautreamont. Although normal to humans, having a rose-like scent, it has a drunken effect on dragons when inhaled or consumed. Used extensively in confectionery and beverages.

'''Xenoglavia War''' (ゼノグラヴィア戦争 ''Zenoglavia-sensō'')The war years ago where the kingdom is against the empire and the kingdom win with the help of the Lautreamont Knight Country.

'''Astral Flow''' (星精路（アストラルフロウ） ''Asutoraru Furō'')

'''Avalon Knight''' (アヴァロンの騎士 ''Avaron no Kishi'')

'''Eccles''' (エクル ''Ekuru'')-Currency in this story.

'''Elysium'''- The Continental Congress.

'''Dragon Riding Dance'''- A dance that could only be preform by the Eckbald.

'''Magic Techniques'''(''魔導工学'')- A magic powered machanics. (a type of skill)

===Dragon Tribes===
'''Asia''' (地竜（アーシア） ''Āshia'', lit. "Land Dragon") - A dragon that walks on all fours.

'''Strada''' (翼竜（ストラーダ） ''Sutorāda'', lit. "Air Dragon") - A flying dragon.

'''Hydra''' (水竜（ハイドラ） ''Haidora'', lit. "Water Dragon") - A dragon with snake-like features. Has control over water.

'''Maestro''' (聖竜（マエストロ） ''Maesutoro'', lit. "Holy Dragon") - The matured form of the above three classes. A dragon that has evolved into a Maestro results in a Breeder becoming a Dragner.

====Other Dragon types====
'''Basilisk''' (バシリスク ''Bashirisuku'') - Giant lizards, can only be controlled by members of the Tantalos Tribe.

'''Necromancia''' (屍灰竜（ネクロマンシア） ''Nekuromanshia'', lit. "Ash Corpse Dragon") - A class of dragons that are born from the ashes of dead dragons through Zepharos' sword "Tyrfing".

===Dragon Knight classes===
'''Breeder''' (竜飼い人（ブリーダー） ''Burīdā'') - People who are granted dragon larva from the Mother Dragon and who successfully gave birth to them. The first title everyone gets if they have a dragon.

'''Dragner''' (竜騎士（ドラグナー） ''Doragunā'', lit. "Dragon Knight") - Those who successfully made their pal mature into a Maestro. The second title people can get.

'''Ark-Dragner''' (聖天竜騎士（アーク・ドラグナー） ''Āku Doragunā'', lit. "Holy Heavenly Dragon Knight") - Those who gained armor from their Maestro gets this title. They also get a special power called Linear Magic. Only a certain number of people have them, and it is a very high title.

'''Paladin''' (騎士王（パラディン） ''Paradin'', lit "Knight-King") - A title above Ark-Dragner. The highest class of Dragners. The only known Paladin is King Oswald of Lautreamont.

===Items===
'''Dragsuits''' (騎竜服（ドラグスーツ） ''Doragusūtsu'', lit. "Dragon Calvary Clothes") - Costumes worn by all Breeders and Dragners in Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

'''Ark''' (聖騎甲（アーク） ''Āku'', lit. "Holy Rider Armor") - An unique set of armour Ark-Dragners receive from their Maestro.

'''Ark Weapon''' - Unique weapons that utilize Linear Magic (固有魔装 ''Koyū Mahō''). Wielded by Ark-Dragners.

'''Bright Dragon Crystal''' (竜輝華晶 ''Ryūki-kashō'') - The crystalized form of a dragon’s magic. It can be created only when the rider and the dragon can synchronize with each other. It’s commonly used as a catalyst and fuel for light and power.
:'''Oracle''' (竜媒魔法（オラクル） ''Orakuru'', lit. "Magic Dragon Medium")

:'''Millenium''' (千年輝華晶（ミレニアム） ''Mireniamu'', lit. "Thousand-Year Shining Crystal")

:'''Uranus''' (聖星石（ウラノス） ''Uranosu'', lit. "Holy Star Stone")

:'''Pluto''' (冥王石（プルートゥ） ''Purūtu'', lit. "Hades Stone")

'''Tyrfing''' (ティルヴィング ''Tiruvingu'') - A sword crafted by the Zepharos Empire with the ability to summon Necromancia from the ashes of dead dragons. Wielded by Milgauss.

'''Yggdrasil''' (ユグドラシル ''Yugudoashiru'') - A machine that was unearthed from the empire's ancient ruins. It can be used to force a normal dragon to evolve into a Maestro.

'''Avalon Bracelet''' (アヴァロンの腕輪 ''Avaron no Udewa'') - A special bracelet the Mother Dragon gave to Eco in Vol. 5 to suppress her power and prevent Eco from transforming into her true form.

===Time===
'''A.S.B.''' - Probably "After Saint's Birth", to match A.D./Anno Domini (latin for "In the year of the Lord."). The Saint mentioned being St Rosa Maria (as mentioned in v2c4) the founder of what seems to be the official religion of the Knight's Country.

'''Taurus (♉)''' is the 5th month according to v2 Prologue, so I guess they're using the western-astrology zodiac to name their months. Cross referencing the other novels will probably confirm this.

===Religion===
Since this comes up a lot in the novels, I (denormative) will try to standardise most of the terminology as I go through editing since there seems to be some confusion probably just due to lack of familiarity. Apologies if some of this states the obvious or sounds condescending, I'm not quite sure where people's knowledge levels are... (Context: I grew up in a religious Catholic/Anglican household and while I don't care about/for religion, not using the stock/idiomatic phrase patterns just make it not read 'naturally'. Plus it means I can put some otherwise useless knowledge to some use I guess... :? )

* The faith of Saint Rosa Maria seems to be patterned after either the Roman or Orthodox Eastern Christian churches given the heavy emphasis on 'Saints'.

* It's probably a good assumption also that "Saint Rosa Maria" is the fictional analogue of the Christian "Virgin Mary", though she seems to be the main figurehead of the faith in the novels. (There is actually a St Maria di Rosa in the Roman Catholic faith, but I'm not going to assume that the author is probably more familiar with Maria-sama ga Miteru then a 19th century congregation of sisters... :) )

* "Saint" or "St" should always precede the name of the saint (eg, "St Valeria" or "Saint Rosa Maria"). It should be spelt out completely ('Saint') in dialogue, but the 'St' form is fine for narration. I don't believe 'St.' is correct, in fact I think that's usually used as the abbreviation for 'Street' (at least in UK/AU English).

* I'm not sure how to deal with the "holy woman" translation in English, since in most instances you just want to use 'Saint' because that would be the natural pattern. I can't be certain, but the times I've seen 聖女 (seijyo/holy woman) used it always seems to refer to Saint Rosa Maria. If this is the case it would be logical to replace it with something like "The Saint" or just "Saint Maria".

* References to "praying to the saint before eating" can be replaced by the phrase [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grace_(prayer) "saying grace"] or "giving thanks".

* General references to "praying to Saint Rosa Maria" or "praying to the saint" can be replaced with the pattern of "giving thanks to..."

*Old Testament of the Stella Biblia

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Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 2

2014-03-05T12:14:12Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, phrases and grammar.

==Chapter 2 -Fontaine City, the capital of the Knights==
===Part 1===
Early in the morning, on the fourteenth day, in the month of Cancer.

The day to depart for Fontaine City, the capital of Lautreamont Knight Country, had finally arrived. Ash and Eco had already made their preparations for the journey and were again standing in front of the campus’s fountain.

Actually; today also happens to be the first day of the semester examination finals. Though Ash and Silvia had already formally requested to leave the school grounds they will have to take a makeup examination when they return to the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

But with the thought of meeting with the Paladin, Ash felt that the final semester examination is but a trivial matter.

"Anyway...... this outfit is really hot." Ash complained.

He was adjusting his bow tie with his fingers.

Ash is in a palace-designed manservant uniform. The well made dark coat gave out an extra elegant feel.

"Don’t you know that I also feel very hot too!!!"

On the other hand, Eco is also wearing maid attire which is also a palace design. It is exactly like the same ones Cosette wears daily. Even though she still looks kind of cute in the uniform, unfortunately her unnecessarily high self-esteem is at work, causing her mood to be ugly.

Needless to say, it is not Ash and Eco’s intention to wear such clothes.

In fact, this was proposed by Cosette.

This was to avoid unwanted rumors when the two of them went back to Fontaine city accompanied by Princess Silvia.

Indeed, if the Princess were to travel back home, alone together with a male student, it would not be surprising if some rumors would be born from it. Moreover, it seemed that, the thing that attracts news reporters’ curiosity most is the affairs of the palace’s nobles. This is also the reason why Eco and Ash were disguised as servants.

As it happens, first bell sounds off at this time.

The students hurried out of their dormitories and rushed over to the school. This being an final exam day each student wears a terrible murderous expression.

"Fuwaa ......"

Eco yawned. She was still sleepy for getting up early and looked as if she was without any spirit. Even so, her shiny hair that reflects the morning rays was like a pink gem stone which gave her a divine like look.

"Err...... is Silvia not ready yet?"

"For Princess, it is like she is going back home. It should have been that she needed more time to pack up her stuff."

"What was that? She asks us out early in the morning but she is late herself? How could there be such a rude female animal!" 
[[Image:SnRK V04 037.jpg|thumb|Eco is also wearing palace designed maid attire]]

"Hey, how can you call Princess as a 'female animal'!"

''Eco needs to take care of what and how she's going to speak before she causes trouble by uttering some nonsense in town''... Ash secretly thought.

===Part 2===
A few moments after the bell rang, Lancelot glided down landing gracefully with Silvia and Cosette on its back.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

Silvia had her blond hair tied and is wearing a dragsuit embroidered with the knight’s royal insignia. She looks as if she is a mythological character.

Eco immediately lost her sleepiness and angrily shouted:

"Why are you so slow!! And what’s with that costume? And you even made a prideful dragon wear a servant’s clothing... What a disappointment!!!"

"Ara? I’m so sad. I had initially happily thought that it is a rare chance for me to be in the same attire as Eco..."

Cosette replied for Silvia. She covers her mouth with her hands and turns her face to avoid looking at Eco, and started sniffing.

"Wait... what is there worth crying about! That... You usually take care of me, and since we have the opportunity to wear the same clothes, I'm also glad about it..."

"Hehe. Thank you Eco."

Sure enough, Cosette, with a nonchalant look, was laughing.

"Wha... How dare you trick me!"

Eco immediately grew angry, but nothing more could be done.

"We are ready to take off. Both of you please come up!"

Under Silvia’s command, the group finally departed.

===Part 3===
"Ash Blake and young dragon Eco... had left?" Anya coldly muttered.

Anya had coincidentally arrived at the dragon riding academy and saw Lancelot, and the rest, flying high up into the sky.

The rumors that Silvia will attend the Continental Congress––'Elysium', and that Ash and Eco who have gained the opportunity to meet with the Paladin––had long ago spread like wildfire.

And, naturally, this information had been passed to Anya.

All the intelligence received so far had been completely reported to Milgauss.

Milgauss, who had an abnormal interest in Eco, immediately launched his plan.

Using Fontaine City as its location, the combat strategy reformulation is well underway.

Anya will also then leave for Fontaine City.

But.... What confused her was why doesn’t she have her usual motivation.

''––Recently, there is something wrong with Milgauss...''

The previous Milgauss usually obeyed his duty from the Empire’s Army’s Intelligence Department, and always calmly completed his task.

However, since he met with young dragon Eco, Milgauss seems to have changed into a different person.

The Milgauss of now, compared to helping the Empire’s Army, feels increasingly like his actions are more in his own interests.

But Anya is inspired by Milgauss. Regardless of which country Milgauss defected to, she is prepared to follow him silently.

If it is so, her desire to look forward to the day Milgauss reveals his ‘secret’, is it regarded as an arrogant wish...?

“What am I thinking about!!" Anya harshly scolded herself.

She then walked towards the parking space for the dragon carriage. <ref> 竜車, RyuuSha normally it means an imperial carriage, but in this novel it means a dragon powered carriage.</ref>

===Part 4===
"What is that...? This is the first time I seen such a huge city!"

The time has just passed noon, the time when the sun becomes stronger, Eco gives praise.

Fontaine City’s spire gradually appeared at the other end of the Fotainia’s vast plains<ref>フォンティーン is for Fontaine and I’ll put Fontainia for フォンティニヤ</ref>. The scenery of the town surrounding the spire had just come into view.

"Be careful not to fall down."

Ash reminded Eco who is behind him.

Eco was touched by the scene in front and had loosened her grip on Ash’s waist.

Speaking of waist, Silvia is holding the reins while controlling Lancelot right in front of Ash.

This is the third time in his whole life Ash rode with Sylvia.

Ash initially did not mind sitting at the rear, but before he mounted Lancelot, a smiling Cosette gave up her position as seconded to him.

On their way there, Silvia's hair has an aroma of roses which caused him to feel uneasy. As if the wind that had been blowing on his face is stained with Silvia’s body fragrance.

To keep himself from thinking about Silvia’s body fragrance, Ash carefully observed Fontaine City.

This metropolis is centered around the castle.

In the space above the urban areas, many Dragners acting as guards can be seen flying around.

This scene gave an unusual feeling of tension.

"Hey, Princess, does this city usually have so many Dragners?"

"No. It is because the Continental Congress is around the corner so security was reinforced."

"I see. Anyway... Why deliberately choose such a busy time to summon Eco and I? Ahh, I have no offense against the Paladin."

"Sorry... I do not want to talk about things regarding my father."

Because he felt such strong resistance, Ash abandoned his investigation.

At this time, the Dragners in charge of the security noticed Lancelot’s arrival. They lined up in mid-air, uniformly and put on their salute pose.

"Thanks for your hard work!"

Silvia with a loud voice responded to those Dragners who respectfully saluted to her.

===Part 5===
The five-story Fontaine Palace stands right in the center of the capital. It is an old city that can be described with 'simple yet sturdy'.

A huge number of maids were gathered at the entrance to welcome the return of the Fourth Princess.

It is estimated that the number of maids is around thirty. They were divided into two rows, standing one at each side and gave a deep bow to Silvia. It is not surprising to have the palace musicians preforming at this moment.

"Welcome back, Princess. The Paladin has been expecting you for a long time."

A maid wearing spectacles, representing the other maids, stood in front of Silvia.

"I would be of better use making the guests familiar with the palace..." Silvia said reasonably.

After that she then turned her attention towards Ash and Eco, but...

"No. You must first greet the Paladin."

The bespectacled maid kept her stance and refused compromise.

"Haa... I understand."

After Silvia sighed but promised, she spoke to Ash:

"This is how it is. We will do our stuff separately for a while. If there are any questions, you can inquire anything from her–– Florida."

Ash nodded in understanding. So Silvia, with an imperial imposing manner, marched towards the stairs at the inner part of the entrance hall. Cossette also followed Silvia.

Just after Silvia and Cossette climbed up the stairs and disappeared behind, the maids gathered around the hall dispersed to their various duties.

She is full of murderous intent.

"What’s wrong with them...?"

Ash blankly murmured. Then, Florida, who was the only one left, walks towards them.

Florida is a head taller than Ash and, just because of this, Ash felt a huge amount of pressure. But hidden beneath the spectacles, the sharpness of her eyes were no less than a knight.

Just by being looked at by such a woman, it is not a wonder that Silvia will obey her... Ash can finally understand how she felt.

"My name is Florida Shelley. Both of you are Ash Blake-sama and Eco-sama the dragon, am I right? Your room has already been taken care of."

Florida, without a smile, led the two to their bedroom.

From the entrance hall to the corridor, the walls decorated with the works of well-known painters and sculptors. Among them, many of them were related to dragons or Dragners.

"That... Florida-san is seems that your Surname is Shelley, right? Could you be by any chance a relative of Cossette?"

Ash asked.

"Cossette is my cousin's sister. Does it have anything to do with you?"

"N-No... Sorry."

Once he was glowered at, Ash was trembling with fear. Her personality compared to the kind Cossette is like two different worlds.

Florida then continues to speak:

"Please forgive me for saying this; the Continental Congress Elysium will be held on the coming day. Currently the whole city is busy carrying out the preparatory work. Logically speaking, this is not really a suitable time to entertain guests like the both of you."

"Haha... I understand."

Since the other party had said this very straight forwardly, Ash can only smile bitterly.

However... Eco had a temper worse than Ash. She shook her pair of fists, and grumbled as if she was cursing:

"You really don't know how to say anything nice... it is not really a suitable time to entertain us? Why don’t you ever think of why we came here from a faraway place––"

Ash quickly whispered to Eco:

"Please don’t be mischievous while we're here in the city! I don’t have that many lives..."

"Err... Since she has spoken cruelly to us... and yet you want me to just forget about it with just a smile?"

"What else can we do?"

"Eh-Hem!"

Seeing as Florida gave a cough, Ash quickly turned silence.

"Because I still have work to do, I don’t have the time to entertain you both."

Florida continues to add fuel to the fire.

Ash, while covering Eco mouth, said: "Please don’t trouble yourself. After we meet with the Paladin, we will immediately head home. After all, the Continental Congress has nothing to do with us."

"Your analysis is correct. Having said that, for not entertaining the guest, it is not a tradition of the Lautreamont family. Fortunately, Princess Veronica-sama has sent someone responsible to take care of you two. Please be rest assured."

"Huh? Princess Veronica-sama...?"

Ash sensed something that made him felt unease.

Florida stopped in front of a door along a corridor on the fourth floor.

"This is your room."

Just when Florida places her hand on the golden doorknob––

''-Doong Toom''

A strange noise can be heard from behind the door. The series of several loud thuds might make people suspect an avalanche is occurring.

"W-What has happened?"

Florida with a great change on her face changed, rushed into the room.

"Sorry ~!"

Upon entering, a young maid was crying in the middle of numerous books scattered on the floor.

"Prim-san...?"

Ash blankly muttering the maid's name.

The maid in front is Cosette's sister – Primrose Shelley. Logically speaking, she should be working on the airship Silvanus...

''No, apart from that, the point is, why is Prim only wearing her underwear?'' The white underwear is bulging with a huge amount of flesh.

Just when Ash was staring at her cleavage-

"You idiot! Who allowed you to stare!"

Eco’s severely elbowed his tummy.

''"Urgh!"''

"Prim! Why are you dressed like this?!"

Florida asked Prim.

"T-This is because... Every time I clean, I do not know why my clothes would get dirty... So I thought up a way to clean while being naked, such an action wouldn't get my clothes dirty!"

"It doesn’t matter if our maid attire gets dirty! Besides, why would this room be in a mess?"

Books that were scattered on the ground. A bucket that was tipped. Water puddled on the floor. Littered rags. And the unnatural position of the carpets.

The room before it was cleaned, should have been cleaner. Ash thought.

Without waiting for the sniffling Prim to put on her clothes, Florida left the room.

''"Prim is then responsible for taking care of Ash and Eco"''- Which is the parting sentence that Florida said before she left.

To Florida, Ash and Eco’s visit is only an additional burden for her. To put it bluntly; She just passed the trouble on to the useless Prim.

As for Veronica's involvement, who sent Prim here for support, things were not better off. Although, looking from the perspective that they already knew each other, it is not wrong to say that Prim is suitable for this job...

"Glad to have the opportunity to meet with you again, Ash-sama!”

Prim who finally put on her maid uniform leaned over. By smelling her fruity body smell, Ash heart starts to race.

Long-time no see, Prim-san."

"Who is this lady?... Don’t tell me that you had a mistress without me knowing?"

Eco unhappily pinched his tummy.

"Where did you learn that word from? She is Primrose Shelley-san and is also Cosette's sister."

"Indeed... She does look like Cosette, but it seems that she is not a good maid."

"Uuuuu!"

Eco’s criticism hits the bull’s eye. Prim stepped back.

"Eco! Be careful of how you are speaking!"

"It does not matter... Ash-sama. It is true because my clumsy personality is an indisputable fact... Are you Eco?"

Prim looked excited, she is staring at Eco.

"W-What are you looking at...?”

Eco is stunned. Strictly speaking, she should have been overwhelmed by Prim’s breasts. Her magnificent breasts were shaking roughly in front of Eco.

"Waa! You really have horns! Can I touch them?"

Like a child wanting to touch a small animal, Prim stretched out her hand towards Eco.

"Stop... of course you may ''not'' touch them!"

Eco immediately exposed her teeth while dodging.

Since a few days ago, when her weakness about ‘by nibbling her horns she will become powerless’ was exposed by Lukka, Eco is always on alert about people who were going to touch her horns.

"What is special about touching a horn! Quickly clean the room! What a mess it is in, I can’t even rest and have a cup of tea!"

"Uuu... Sorry... I'll tidy up right away."

"Ah, it's better if I do the cleaning."

After hearing that Ash is going to help, Prim jumped up on the spot

"That is outrageous! For a maid to let a guest do the cleaning, it's worse than death!"

"No, it's not helping... I should say that I’ll do all the work. Prim-san, please accompany Eco."

"Err, but..."

"Please!"

Seeing that Ash is insisting, Prim forcefully nodded.

===Part 6===
Ash, who was good at cleaning, spent less than thirty minutes to finish up. If it was given to Prim, most probably it will be until the sun sets.

Ash looked at the room again.

Indeed it is a guest room in the castle, all the furniture used were first-class goods.

Hung on the ceiling was a crystal chandelier inlaid with bright-dragon-crystal.

Even a heater, that is useless in the summer, was also placed in the room.

The room had two beds, which nearly made Ash burst in tears. Because normally, in the student dormitory, his bed is given to Eco. He could only place a futon on the ground......

Eco who was looking at the scenery from the window, like a child suddenly cried out loud.

"Woah... Come and have a look!"

Because the room was located on the fourth floor, they were able to view the scenery around the capital.

Ash stood beside Eco, looked at the streets below.

The view, that he had only seen previously in pictures, is right in front of his eyes. The big churches, Opera Houses and other large facilities were all over the place. It's a special view that can only be seen in the capital.

"..."

Ash casually looked at Eco, sure enough, she obviously had an impatient look.

Even though she is also obviously taking a peek back at Ash, once their eyes met, she pretended to turn her head the other away. Anyhow, Ash had lived together with Eco for three months and he immediately knew what she is thinking.

Besides, since it is still early, they were not told to stay in their room...

"Do you want to have a look at the streets?"

Upon hearing Ash's proposal, Eco suddenly revealed a blooming flowers-like laugh, but she soon put away her smile with a stinking face and crossed her arms.

"Hmm... I don’t really get what you are thinking. It doesn’t matter whether I am going there or not, but if you really insist on going, I can consider accompanying you. But then, before that..."

"Before that?"

"I want to change my clothes! I've had enough of this maid attire!"

Eco started to roughly remove her maid uniform. Her smooth white shoulder, back and waist suddenly became visible.

"Uwaa! Don’t do it so suddenly!"

Ash quickly turned to the right to avoid looking at Eco’s naked body.

===Part 7===
In the king's hall, Paladin Oswald leaped from his throne, and made a perfect curve while flying towards Silvia.

"TCH... you are really annoying!"

Silvia’s iron fist soon hit Oswald’s round face.

“Ouch!”

Oswald spouts a nosebleed as he falls backwards.

The glorious Paladin’s blood soon soaked into the red carpet.

"From the strength of your punch... you have grown up to be more and more like your mother."

Oswald slowly climbed up from the ground while saying it with emotion.

Silvia's mother- Queen Elizabeth was a famous Ark-Dragner during her lifetime. But, in the end she had lost to a disease.

Since the Queen had passed away when Silvia was three years old, she doesn’t have a strong impression of her mother.

There is a huge portrait behind the throne. Her mother in the painting looks elegant, featuring a pair of vulture-like piercing eyes.

In Silvia's eyes, her mother was someone she admires. She hoped that she can be a woman like her mother one day.

However, different from her heroic mother, her father- Oswald... is nothing but a worthless person.

He was always with his smiling round face and his round body. Although he didn’t imitate the past Paladins by forgoing a large beard, but even with kind words, he can’t be considered good-looking.

These are just the small problems; the main thing is his mushroom-like hairstyle. Silvia really wanted him to have it changed. Even though he was quite satisfied with it, his daughter is really embarrassed by it.

Don’t know whether it is unfortunate or lucky that Oswald hadn't been chosen by the Mother Dragon as a breeder.

"Come closer Sylvie, let me look at your beautiful face."

"I do not mind being looked at by you... but please do not come a step closer. You are filthy!"

"Uhoo! Even your style of scolding others is like Elizabeth’s!"

Seeing Oswald blush, Silvia had had enough of him.

"Don’t you have any sense of shame! Being overjoyed because of being scolded by your daughter... what nonsense is that!"

===Part 8===
After she forced her father back to his throne with her kick, Silvia asked seriously:

"What in the world made you summon me back home? I’m just an ordinary student and still studying. Why would you order me to attend the Continental Congress ‘Elysium’...?"

"Why should you be so timid? You are the Fourth Princess and also a Dragner. Of course you are fully qualified to join the line-ups of the Lautreamont Knights country's leaders. Anyway, the person who recommended you isn't me, but Veronica."

"Anee-ue she...?"

Indeed this is an idea that only Veronica would think about, Silvia thought secretly.

She intends to make Silvia, who declared "I am determined to become the Paladin", to accumulate some experience regarding the royals.

If she can be involved in the Continental Congress ‘Elysium’ before she is twenty, she will get quite some valuable experience.

Of course Veronica would surely be attending as the First Princess. With the thought of going to greet Veronica later, Silvia is getting a headache.

"In short, as long as I can see Sylvie, I’ve no objection. That’s why I simply just accepted Veronica's opinions."

"I see... Then about summoning Ash Blake and young dragon Eco in such a busy period, why did you do so?"

Even when he was gazed coldly by Silvia, Oswald remained calm. He just plays with the small beard below his chin with his fingers.

"Now is indeed a busy period, but Sylvie, you must have already known... I am just the Paladin by name. Most of the government tasks are handled by my excellent subordinates, the busier they are at work, the more leisurely I become."

Silvia is at loss for words.

"In other words... you just want to find someone to accompany you, no matter whom it is?"

"Well, that's true. I have heard about the rumors about Ash Blake and young dragon Eco."

Silvia lost her might. ''This father is simply no different than a child'', she thought.

Perhaps that he felt guilty after seeing Silvia’s looks, Oswald like giving an excuse said:

"Of course it is not that simple. I also know of what Ash Blake has contributed. As a Paladin, I think there is a suitable reward for him."

"Suitable reward...? What is that?"

Silvia curiously asked, but Oswald only exposed a child-like naughty smile.

"Oh, tonight I'm going to entertain Ash Blake and Young Dragon Eco with a dinner. If you are interested, you may attend."

"I don’t even want to know!"

Silvia’s face is red and she wanted to immediately turn around and leave, but before that she came out with a question:

"... I also have one thing that I want to ask father."

"Huu! Feel free to ask."

Oswald who overly bored happily allowed it.

"I would like to ask something about Brother Julius."

Upon hearing that, Oswald expression instantly freezes.

Even cheerful Oswald, once he heard someone mention the name Julius, his face sank. Although Julius sentence was ten years ago, but that name until today is still considered taboo.

"Was Aniue<ref>兄上, a very polite way to call your elder brother.</ref> really executed?"

"W-What are you talking about...? Sylvie? He was a Dragonslayer. Even though he was a prince, we mustn’t spare him."

"I understand. I’m just curious..."

"In the future never mention such silly question, alright? There are things in this world that can be spoken off and things that cannot."

“…Yes.”

Silvia with a serious expression promised and left the king’s hall.

Cosette who was waiting in the hallway with a tactful tone asked her:

"What’s the outcome?"

Silvia while walking faster, she replied:

"Once he heard me asking about aniue , chichiue’s<ref> 父上, a very polite way to say father.</ref> eyebrows gave a reaction. Whenever chichiue is lying, his left eyebrow would stir up––this is his sign."

Silvia clenched her fist and continued to say.

"I'm afraid that chichiue couldn’t bear to kill aniue, but just had him exiled..."

===Part 9===
The first place Prim introduced to both Ash and Eco was the central square.

"Fontaine City’s central square is a very well-known tourist attraction. On the right side, you can see St Rosa Maria’s Cathedral. Beside it is the Fontaine National Opera House. On the left side you can also see the Ark-Dragner’s Museum."

Prim is certainly not good at cleaning, but she could become quite a good tourist guide since she is a local.

"It's terrific... Terrific! This is the knight country’s capital...!"

Eco ran lightly on the evenly spaced stone slabs.

She was wearing a hat that covered her horns. Although the water-colored sleeveless one-piece dress exposed some of her flesh, it was still very suitable for the young and lively Eco. Her legs, without her stockings, were stepping along on a pair of white sandals. This dress was specially bought, in the shopping streets in Ansarivan, for this trip.

"Eco, be careful not to get lost!"

Ash and Prim were quickly chasing after Eco’s footsteps.

Even though it's daytime, on a weekday, the central square was still packed with people. There were shoppers, tourists and many innocent children running around.

Eco stopped in front of a flower garden. The inner part of it is full with flowers blooming under the summer sun. The flowerbeds were placed in layers, and there were a couple of bronze statues on the top most tier.

There were a set bronze statues depicting a knight and the king. The knight was kneeling with his head lowered. The king was wielding a unsheathed sword, placed lightly on the knight's shoulder.

"What is that statue?"

Prim answered Eco’s childlike question while smiling:

"This group of bronze statues is a scene of the appointment ceremony. At the time, the Chevron king- Lionel III appointed Durham-sama as the first Paladin. Later, the person who revitalized the Lautreamont knight country was Durham-sama himself."

"Oh... it sounds like it is full of history."

Eco was admiring the statue.

The date engraved on the base is year 864 November the third in the year of the Saint. Dating back about five hundred years.

Perhaps she was satisfied with the statue, Eco turned around and lazily stretched her waist.

"Nn~! The size of this place completely different from Ansarivan! I’m getting more and more excited!"

"After all, Ansarivan is just an academy city. I think it does not make any sense to compare the two."

After Ash gave his analysis, he was being stared at angrily by Eco.

"You really love to spoil the fun! Since it's rare for us to be in the capital, I want to totally forget about the Paladin and enjoy the fun!"

Eco majestically made a declaration and her red eyes were shining in splendor.

"Hey! How can we forget about the Paladin!"

Ash quickly corrected Eco.

===Part 10===
Eco was enjoying herself in the capital. Without realizing, the sun was setting.

"I think it is almost time for us to return to the castle?"

After Ash suggested, Eco refused to listen to him without any explanation.

"No. We haven’t visited the shopping district!"

Eco ran forward, her dress swayed with the wind. According to Prim, it seems that following further along this alley, they will eventually arrive at the capital's largest shopping district.

"We don’t really have a choice."

While Ash was smiling, Prim suddenly reached out and pulled his sleeve.

“Prim-san?”

"That, Ash-sama... I-I am exhausted... I am alright with staying right here and waiting for you to return."

Prim, with an exhausted look, stood beside the trees beside the streets. Her shoulders were moving up and down from her breathing... Because she was sweating her clothes were clinging to her skin and made her figure stand out very attractively.

After Ash adverted his eyes from Prim, he thanked her.

"Prim-san, thank you. We will try to come back early. If any stranger starts a conversation with you, never follow him, okay?"

"I am not that innocent!"

Ash entered the shopping district with Prim protesting against him from behind. He was already scanning for Eco in the crowded area.

On both sides of the street are a row of buildings doing businesses.

Food, clothing, jewelery, books, groceries, furniture... there should be nothing that you can’t buy here, right?- The wide variety of goods at this place will make others think so.

Apart from the shops, there were also a lot of street vendors. Every vendor was using every trick they knew to attract guests before they choose to visit other cafés or restaurants. The sweet aromatic smell was appreciated by Ash.

Unsurprisingly Eco, also attracted by the appetizing smell, was staring at one of the street vendors dazed. A middle-aged man can be seen cooking the crust of crepes on an iron grill.

"Hey, you still want to eat...?"

Ash spoke timidly behind Eco.

In fact, before they came here, they had already eaten cakes, apple pies and tea in a café.

"How can I be so careless! I had forgotten that I haven’t eaten any crepes today. How can I actually commit such mistake! If I didn’t taste any crepes here, it means that I have wasted my time in the capital... Don’t you also think so?"

“What sort of nonsense is that!”

After Ash had finished commenting, Eco was already queing up at the back of the serving line. It seems that she had made up her mind and refused to leave.

"Haa... After you have eaten this, you are not allowed to buy any others, alright?"

Eco with a "''hum~''" she was humming a song and she did not answer.

"Having said that..."

Only just now did Ash realize that those who were lining up to buy crepes... most of them were couples. Some were holding hands, the others were hooking their arms and there were also people who were flirting......

Eco, who also witnessed all that, turned around and asked Ash

"Haa... Why are they sticking together so intimately? And... Why do you envy them?"

"D-Did I have that expression?"

"You were like a hungry dog, or I can also say that you were like a caged pig."

“You really are mean!”

"Hey, you haven’t told me why?"

"B-Because... they are couples."

After Ash shyly answered, Eco slightly blushed.

Although Eco is just a three month old young dragon, she had been living in the academy. Basically; she had a certain understanding about the concept of couples.

"I see..."

After Eco calmed down, a new customer had lined up behind Ash. Judging from their conversation, they seems to be a couple.

It is now evening and the sun is setting behind them, causing the couple's long shadow to be cast upon the stone slabs on the ground in front of them.

"...!"

The shadows of the two can be seen sticking closely together. Also, words such as "''I love you''", "''my life is only for you''" and other sweet and tender phrases for couples can be overheard.

"..."

Eco's attention was focused at the shadows, after a while she suddenly stretched out her right hand to Ash.

"... Eco?"

Eco turn to look at the side and snappily muttered:

"If it is just holding hands... I don’t really mind it."

Ash was shocked. He didn’t understand why Eco suddenly said that. Was it because she wanted to protest against the other couples, or she was just pitying Ash who envied the rest?

Anyway, Eco looked purer today. She was probably affected by the special atmosphere in the capital. It was like Eco was under the capital’s magic.

"So... Let’s do it."

Ash held Eco's hand as his heart beat increased. The moment their hands touched each other, Eco was startled. Her palm was smaller and softer than expected. Eco's body temperature was passed to Ash through her palm.

At this time, the couple behind them were fully immersed in their world.

From their shadows...... they were obviously kissing, and it was still quite an intense affectionate kiss. Their flirting had suddenly stopped at half-way- this gave them a deeper sense of reality.

"...!"

Eco seems to have also noticed the unusual circumstances behind. She was staring at the shadows on the ground for quite a moment.

"Y-You can only hold my hand! I-I will not allow any further development!"

Then she declared at Ash who was standing beside.

"I-I know that!"

Later, the two silently queued up.

''In the eyes of others, are we like a pair of lovers...'' While feeling Eco’s warm hand in his... Ash thought so.

===Part 11===
"Nn? It smells wonderful!"

On her right hand is a chocolate mint flavor while on her left hand is cream cheese and raspberry flavor. Today, it was a rare sight for Eco not to directly eat it, but start with smelling it.

"Be careful not to hit any passers-by."

Ash casually reminded her, but Eco abruptly looked up at him.

"Why didn’t you buy anything?"

"I don’t have a choice...... the price here is higher than Ansarivan. Even a crepe costs three hundred glorins<ref>グローリン: Money. I guess the term is patterned after 'florins'. It will have to do for the moment.</ref>."

"What... hearing you say this, am I being luxurious?"

"I'm not blaming you. Since it is rare for us to be in the capital, don’t you worry about anything."

"... Take it."

Seeing Eco suddenly hand out her right hand’s Crepe, Ash becomes confused.

"Eco?"

"You can only have a bite..."

The reason that Eco’s face looked red... perhaps it was not just caused by the sunset.

"Can I... really?"

"Didn’t you say that it was rare for us to be in the capital? If I am the only one enjoying... It doesn’t feel right. You must also try to have some fun...!"

Ah... for her to be this kind, it must be the capital’s magic responsible for it.

''Until what extent will Eco act cute today?''

"Then I’ll take a bite... Nn! This is...!"

The chocolate’s sweetness and the mint’s refreshing feel gradually spread out in his mouth. The crust spread with cream is crunchy and soft.

"It's delicious! Really delicious! Eco, come and have a try!"

"Why are you exaggerating?"

Seeing Ash’s teeth marks on the Crepe, Eco looked sad. But eventually temptation wins out and she straight away took out a big bite.

"Nn... What is it? This is the first time I ate such a delicious crepe!" Eco was excitedly shouting...

Just then... A huge object, passing not to far away and above the shopping street, slowly occulted the red and setting sun and cast its huge shadow over this area of the city.

Because of the sudden disappearance of the sun, everyone looked curiously upwards–– then they involuntarily came out with a sounds of amazement.

Ash and Eco were no exception, they looked up at the sky dumbfounded.

An air carrier was floating in the sky.

The size is far bigger than Princess Veronica’s airship Silvanus.

On the air carrier, there is a flag of the Zepharos Empire. On the other side of the flag there was a huge family crest that Ash had never seen before.

“Is it the Empire’s nobles?”

Someone answered Ash.

"That's the Viderhausen family’s coat of arms. I heard that the head of the Viderhausen family is going to represent the Empire in the scheduled Continental Congress."

Cosette suddenly appeared.

"Hehe, I'm here to pick up Ash-sama and Eco."

Ash was amazed.

She could even find them in this crowded city.

"... Pick us up? Why?"

"Because Ash-sama and Eco are going to join tonight’s dinner."

"Dinner...?"

Seeing Ash muttering, Cosette suddenly straightened herself.

"The Paladin is expecting the both of you."

By judging this sentence alone, Ash finally understood the situation he was in. The Paladin had finally summoned him. Ash was surprised to have the honor to be invited to a dinner with the Paladin. Ash only expected that he would only get the chance to greet the Paladin in the throne room.

"Hehe. Princess will also be attending. No need to be nervous."

Hearing Cosette say this, Ash was relieved.

Although, with Silvia acting as a social bridge, it is hard to say that he need not be nervous.

"Let's go."

Lead by Cosette, Ash and Eco were on their way home.

Though Ash felt like he had forgotten some important event, his head was already full of tonight’s dinner.

===Part 12===
Near the entrance to the shopping district, Prim was leaning by the trees eagerly looking forward for Ash and Eco’s return.

Without realizing, it was already dusk and the pedestrians around gradually thinned out.

"Uoo~ how come the two of them are not back yet-! Uoo.”

"Eco's Hioliday ~A.B.S.1365.7~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 1

2014-03-04T20:43:53Z

Aoi uchuu: Phrases, words and grammar.

==Chapter 1 - Knight Princess's proposal==
===Part 1===
The next day after the party.

Since after another week will be the end of semester test, once the afternoon class has finished, many students hastily packed their bags and returned home.

Ash was also scheduled to return home immediately for self-study. Before the exam, since the student council’s activities are temporary suspended, he doesn't need to go to the office after school.

"Why is Eco absent today?" Raymond who had already packed his bag asked Ash.

"Err… The party last night had left its mark... The word 'absent' shouldn’t be used to describe this situation… Right? It's Eco who sneaks into the classroom and after that she will immediately fall asleep..."

"Haha, so cute. The reason she is willing to attend this totally boring class is just because she doesn't want to leave your side, don’t you think so?"

"How can that possible..."

Ash, while smiling, took out several books from his locker, that he had never used before, and placed them in his bags. Raymond gave an exaggerated sigh, but Ash didn’t understand his reasons for doing so.

That moment, someone was moving towards Ash.

"... Ash… may I have a word with you?"

After he lifted his head… That person was actually Silvia.

Silvia rarely takes the initiative to speak to others in the classroom–– not to mention if the other party is a boy. But in the past few months they faced several hardships together, and he somehow feels that Silvia is easier to approach compared to the past.

But in the classroom, she is still the majestic and stern 'Ice Blue Princess'.

"If the two of you want to talk alone, then this nuisance will leave quietly."

Raymond left the classroom with a knowing smile.

The others who are packing their bags and ready to go home also cast a curious sight.

"Uh... How can I help you?"

Ash nervously asked.

"That... In fact... Father... Ordered... Wants you to f-f-follow me..."

“Follow you?"

"J-Just take it as I didn’t tell you anything!"

"Princess!"

Totally ignoring Ash, as if saying too much already, Silvia swiftly took up a distance and, in the blink of an eye, had left the classroom.

"... What was that about?"

Ash, 100 percent totally stunned, still standing in the same place, looked bewilderingly in the direction of the door that Silvia just ran out of...

===Part 2===
After about two hours of studying, in the academy’s library, Ash returned to the boys’ dormitory.

Although he is confident about the practical test, the written test is another story, so it's necessary to carefully review over it again.

By the way, as long as Eco was in the same dormitory room with Ash, with all the normal concerns of a parent, his reading/studying efficiency will clearly drop. This is one of the reasons that, as long as Cosette is with Eco... Ash prefers to use the library.

Dusk. <ref>The original meaning was something like evening time.</ref>

The scene outside the Apollo house was fully dyed in the red rays of twilight. Just as Ash, after an evenings study, is walking toward the entrance––

''- Toooooom!''

"Wah!"

A strong gust of wind, together with a sound of an impact, suddenly hit Ash from behind. Ash stumbled and fell face forward, subsequently knocking into the main door.

"What happened...!"

Ash rubbed his forehead while he turned his head around.

"Please excuse me! Are you Ash Blake-san?"

A familiar lady is sitting on a winged Strada. The woman, seemingly in her early twenties, is cheerful. Her shoulder-length hair swayed with the breeze. She is also the one who appeared in the students’ restaurant last night.

"I am first class palace messenger Orletta Blanc! I have a message for you!"

"For me...?" Ash, looking confused, has in no way been involved in any such important matters before.

Orletta jumped down from her riding gear, took out an envelope from her shoulder bag and handed it to Ash.

"May I ask who sent this letter?"

"That’s a secret."

Orletta, while maneuvering her Strada into position, gave out a playful laugh and, before Ash understood what was happening, they took off and flew up into the sky.

===Part 3===
Once Ash is back into his room, he saw Eco sleeping on the bed with her limbs spread out. The few children’s picture books beside the pillow were given to her by Cosette to keep her from being bored.

Only when she is sleeping, is her face like an angel, innocent and lovely. - Just when Ash thinks so, Eco happens to roll over.

Her skirt is lifted up by this action, thus revealing her pinkish thighs. Her underwear can almost be seen.

"Uwaaa...!"

Ash quickly adjusts her skirt back to its original position.

Although he knows she is a young dragon, but whenever he runs into this type of situation, his heart starts to beat quickly.

"Really, it can be bad for my heart..."

Ash took a deep breath, after he felt calmed down, he sat cross-legged on his personal mat.

Then he tore open the envelope that he had just received.

Only now, Ash realized that this is a very high quality envelope. The quality of the paper sold in the nearby stationary shop cannot be compared with this.

Ash carefully draws the letter out, like he is dealing with a fragile item.

''––Tomorrow at lunch break, I will be waiting for you at the fountain in front of the academy.''

However, there is only a short sentence in the letter.

There isn't any signature on the letter.

“What exactly is this?”

Ash was surprised and involuntarily muttered.

"Huh... You’re back?"

Eco rubbed her eyes and slowly sat up.

"Sorry, did I wake you up?"

"That letter... what is written there?"

"Ahh, this? The messenger just sent it to me..."

Ash showed the letter to Eco.

Although Eco was just a three month-old young dragon, she can get all kinds of information from the Dragweiss. Of course, reading should not be any trouble for her. Even though only picture books interest her at present, sooner or later she is bound to get interested in literature.

Eco stared at the contents for a few moments, and then her eyebrows suddenly gave a reaction.

"That person really has some guts, how dare he send a challenge letter!" Eco suddenly stood up while announcing her indignation.

"No, how could this be a challenge letter..."

Even though Ash tried to sooth Eco... But, in fact, within his heart, he was also baffled.

===Part 4===
"......Why did you come here together with me?"

The next day, during lunch break, Ash followed the specified time in the letter and came to the fountain in front of the academy. There are benches everywhere in the campus, many students are here chatting while enjoying lunch.

"Do I even have to give a reason? I'm your master! By sending a letter of challenge to you... It's just the same as sending one to me! I am gonna personally trample on them!" Eco says with an aloof, imperial-like condescending voice. <ref>Note. High and mighty form.</ref>

Eco was in her uniform and crossed her arms while standing beside Ash, waiting for the mysterious sender to arrive.

"Haa. I had already said that it's not a challenge letter.”

Ash can’t recall doing anything outrageous, that would cause someone to challenge him to a duel.

Not long ago, Ash was still the ‘Number One Problem Child in the academy’- and had received disapproving attention in all aspects. Though after Eco’s birth and then both of them joining the student council, he had since been living a relatively low profile life. Rebecca also supported him, which is probably also a very critical factor.

"Anyway, he is very slow... how long does he intended to make us wait?"

Eco can’t be blamed for being angry.

It has already been thirty minutes since the start of lunch break.

"Nn...?"

At this time, Ash sensed someone staring at his back, he then quickly turned around.

A female student is secretly hiding behind the shadows and has been quietly observing them.

Perhaps she thinks that she is safely hidden, but brilliant golden hair can't be hidden so easily.

"Princess?" Ash confronts her.

The moment she's staring face to face with Ash, Silvia’s face stiffened and she swiftly ran away.

"Please wait Princess! You have some business with me right?"

Ash quickly chased from behind.

"Could it be that... the letter was from Silvia?"

Eco, who is also along for the chase, asked.

"Probably. Let’s calm down and think. Her attitude yesterday after school, using the palace messenger and the high quality envelope and paper... this evidence is sufficient enough to prove that the sender is likely to be Princess. Hey, Princess! Why are you running away?!"

"No! Don’t call out to me so loudly! Lancelot.... Through the name of Silvia Lautreamont I summon you!"

Right at that exact moment... There is a flash in front of Silvia, and Maestro Lancelot appeared.

Silvia nimbly jumps onto Lancelot. The moment she lifted her legs to sit on the saddle, the uniform's skirt momentarily fluttered up.

A pure white cloth greeted Ash's eyes. Just when Ash blushes, Lancelot had already skyrocketed up and away.

"Is it magic?"

Ash is stunned. Is Silvia so desperate to escape she needed to summon Lancelot?

Moreover, riding on the dragon without the dragsuit is a violation of the school rules. The law abiding Silvia would actually violate the school’s regulations? This means the situation is no trivial matter. Eco, however, is unphased and in completely normal form...

"Stop, do you know who I am!? If you do not want to be crushed by me... '''then immediately return!'''"

Eco is stomping while shouting toward the sky.

"Come on, it's Lancelot that we're talking about...... The one who will be crushed should be you."

Ash shrugged with a smile.

"What did you say!!!"

Eco’s cheeks are now red with anger; she then turns her attention towards Ash.

At this moment...

"Hey, hey, Lancelot! I ordered you to fly! Who allowed you to land!"

Unexpectedly. Lancelot actually returned, did a full emergency landing in front of the fountain, and sat down. Not only that, it also lowered down its neck in front of Eco.

"It can’t be... it really obeyed Eco’s order?"

Ash glanced doubtfully at Eco.

Eco proudly straightened her flat chest and took a step forward. <ref>Chest and breast is written in the same kanji.</ref>

"Well, now you’ll have nowhere to run. Just tell me why would you send a letter of challenge to Ash!"

"T-That is not a letter of challenge..."

Silvia is sitting astride on the immovable mountain that is Lancelot’s back. Her eyes are in tears. Such situation is extremely humiliating for a Dragner––let alone the highly self-regarded Silvia.

"Princess... If you have any trouble, you can talk about it with me..."

"D-Don’t give me that kind of sympathetic look!"

"I'm sorry..."

"Alright, I understand! I will not run away from the truth! And I am no longer confused! Because I'm the Princess of the Lautreamont Knight Country! Ash, listen carefully!”

Silvia shouted with the top of her voice on Lancelot’s back.

"I hope you join me... Come home with me to meet my father!"

In that one instant, the entire campus, already amused by the events, became frozen in silence all at the same time.

Ash is also stunned, and his brain ceases functioning.

"Woooow! Princess is proposing to someone!" Someone just had to say it!

That person’s shout had become the trigger and caused an uproar in the entire campus.

Unwittingly, the students who are scattered throughout the campus eating their lunch suddenly surrounded them.

There is a reason for the uproar caused by the students.

In general, for a Dragner to properly propose, they normally have to be mounted on their dragon. And Silvia, coincidently riding on Lancelot, is even requesting Ash to meet with her father.

From the others view point, this is a proposing scene.

"I had felt suspicious since last time... To think the two of them had already progressed to this point!"

"Impossible, their status difference is too big!"

The campus is now in quite a storm, and everyone was giving Ash and Silvia various curious looks.

Silvia flushed while making a rebuttal:

"W-What I had said bears no such meaning! It's totally different! Anyway... it's better for a man to propose.... No, it's not like this! Ash, please deal with the things here!"

After Silvia desperately yelled all that, she sat for a moment on Lancelot's back, and then bolted away.

"E-eh! How can you throw me this mess, Princess..."

Ash said with a surprised look.

"Ash! In the end, will you accept it!?"

Large numbers of students continued to approach and surround Ash. Eco is beside him and naturally is also involved. Both of them are squeezed by the others.

"Arghhh! I've had enough! That’s why I say human are stupid and ignorant... I will crush you all!"

Eco’s roar can be heard up into the blue sky.

===Part 5===
Silvia proposing to Ash–– Having spent a lot of effort to unravel the misunderstanding, and somehow cornering Silvia and asking to explain her intentions, he found out a far more shocking fact than being proposed by Silvia.

He didn’t think that Paladin Oswald would actually summon both Ash and Eco.

He is the country’s king.

Of course... Ash doesn't have the right to reject.

"Dragner's Tradition ~A.S.B.1365.7~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Prologue

2014-02-24T06:32:39Z

Aoi uchuu: Words and grammar. Some phrases.

==Prologue==
Lautreamont Knight Country, people called it the country of Dragon Breeders.

Sandwiched between the two major powers, to the north was the Zepharos Empire, while to the south was the Chevron Kingdom.

A small country, with a population of no more than five million, had a special academy.

Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Educating and guiding teenage boys and girls who formed a contract with dragons -- an academy for Dragon Breeders.

===Part 1===
"Let us celebrate Ash’s discharge, kanpai!" <ref>It has about the same usage as ‘cheers’.</ref>

Rebecca, the student council president, with a brilliant smile leads the rest by raising her glass.

This place is the students’ restaurant ‘La Tene’ and a private party is being held tonight to celebrate Ash’s discharge from the hospital.

"Congratulations on your recovery, Ash. From tomorrow onwards the student council will have many chores that will keep you busy."

Rebecca says with a sly smile.

"I thought I had become used to being terrified by your way, where you never take your life as a priority, of dealing with things... It seems that I’ve underestimated your foolishness."

Max uses his fingers to adjust the position of his spectacles, and speaks to Ash with an ironic poker face.

"Hey, Ash...... is this heaven? Not only Eco, Princess Silvia, Rebecca onee-san are here... Even Lucca Sarlinen is also present! Jessica may be crazy, but she is in fact very popular among the boys! Harem bastard!"

The one whispering into Ash’s ear is Raymond. He must have been getting carried away for being in the student council where there are many beautiful girls.

"I can stand you no longer... At least this time you got to taste some bitterness, right? Next time, I'll never allow you to act rashly."

On the other hand Silvia, without changing her serious attitude, continues to lecture Ash.

"Hehe. When the message about Ash-sama’s discharge was received, Her Royal Highness Princess was obviously over the moon -"

Cosette, the maid beside Silvia, lifts her masquerade with a smile.

"Cosette! Why do you always speak the unnecessary-?"<ref> It is a proverb that means to touch the tender spot, but since she speaks in a stern tone I’ll use the one written on top.</ref>

''"That...... Thanks to Ash’s help, I’m back to my old self and Gawain is also very grateful."''

Lucca who is almost hidden behind Silvia puts her whole effort to express her gratitude.

Although she is originally a quiet person and is often expressionless, she is a delightful girl like a yousei<ref> 妖精, mythical creatures in East Asian culture, who can transform into beautiful women. To really force a translation, it can be translate into a fairy or elf, but since she does not really match the characteristic of both I’ll just let it be.</ref>, but after the selective training camp, Ash feels that he can get along with her better. Although, during the recuperation period, she is the one who grabbed the chance to take care of Ash's daily needs.

"Don’t worry about it, you and Gawain have also saved my life. If not because of the dragon riding dance being a success, I might not have lived."

Ash's answer causes Lucca’s face to blush and lower her head. After a moment, she raises her head again with determination.

''"That...... If you are willing, then in the summer holidays, you can follow me back to the Ecbald village."''

"Ash-sama! Since the training camp, every night my body feels lonely! Tonight I swear to not let you sleep!"

Jessica, at one side with a provocative voice interrupts Lucca who is putting in effort to reveal her thoughts to Ash, while moving closer to Ash.

"Hey Jessica, don’t you think you are simply speaking without thinking!" Silvia immediately looks at her in disgust.

"Why is Her Royal Highness Princess angry? This is my problem with Ash-sama? Or is that Her Royal Highness Princess is interested in..."

"H-How is that possible! I just cannot stand your shameless words and deeds!"

Silvia and Jessica, who don't want to back down, make Ash begin to sweat.

''"Say, isn't Eco too quiet today......"'' Ash thinks as he glances at the seat next to him...

''"Gurr."''<ref>Sound of stomach grumbling.</ref> Eco's stomach lets out a grumble.

Eco gets attracted to the roast chicken.

According to the waitress, this roast chicken dish is carefully baked with Chevron tender chicken. 

"Hold on. You must first pray to Saint Rosa Maria before you can eat." Ash quietly whispers to Eco.

It's basic etiquette to pray to St Rosa Maria before eating.

Seeing Eco has a strong appetite, everyone cannot help but smile.

Even though he knows that they don't mean anything bad, Ash still feels embarrassed.
[[Image:SnRK V04 015.jpg|thumb|According to the waitress, this roast chicken dish is carefully baked with Chevron tender chicken]]

The truth is, the young dragon Eco is Ash's Pal. There is nothing wrong even when she is said to be his family.

Because she is connected with Ash through the dragon’s contract- ‘Seikoku’.

''- But then again......''

Ash recalls the time the selective training camp was held at the Allonne's<ref>アロンヌ a place in France correct me if I’m wrong</ref> lakeside.

Milgauss again had summoned the Necromancia to attack.

With everyone’s effort they managed to repel the enemy, but Ash was seriously injured and needed to stay in the hospital, for recuperation, for two weeks after his return to Ansarivan.

''- That Milgauss...... he said Eco is the 'Avalon’s Imperial Princess'. In the end, what does he mean?''

Ash wants to ask Angela-sensei as soon as possible.

But Angela is on duty at the Willingham Mausoleum, and hasn't come back yet. The secret chamber that Angela discovered a while ago, its investigation is still on-going.

''-Imperial Princess...''

Even when in the past... Which Ash is reluctant to think about... The day he must face it seriously may have arrived instead. His reason for becoming Eco’s owner.

Unlike other dragons, the reason Eco was born as a girl.

And the reason why Eco was born into this era...

Just when Ash was thinking, the prayers to the Virgin had ended.

"Let's eat!"

To save time from cutting, Eco gives the chicken a bite right away. The moment her teeth pierce the meat, the juices with a ''"pssss"'' flood out.

"Hafuhafu...... nnn ~ how come this is so delicious!"

In order to protect this happy face, no matter what, he had to settle things with Milgauss. Just as Ash makes up his mind, Rebecca begins to speak to him.

"What’s the problem? You look preoccupied."

"Nothing, err..."

"You may have many unanswered questions but forget about them, at least for tonight. This feast is to celebrate your discharge from hospital."

It seems that nothing can stay hidden from Rebecca.

"Haha... You're right. Then I’ll relax and enjoy the night."

After Ash squeezes out a smile, with some effort, he gulps down the liquid in the glass-

"''Cough!'' R-Rebecca-san...... is this...?"

"Why make such a fuss, it is only some grape juice."

In his memory, he seems to have heard before something similar... remembering this, Ash gave a bitter smile.

"Don't worry about it. There are many children from the Chevron Kingdom next to us, who drink this as if they are drinking water."

"But this is the Knight Country..."

"Ash, you are too old fashioned. After a long time in the hospital, surely you must have accumulated a lot of stress. Tonight’s feast is for everyone to have a good time, what’s the problem if everyone indulges a little?"

Rebecca says, smiling.

"If Ash-sama has really accumulated stress for so long, I can always accompany you! I'll help you squeeze you out clean, not even a drop will be left!"

Jessica is holding another bottle and suddenly leans over.

Even though the feast started not long ago, her cheeks are flushed, and her eyes are in a watery state.

"Stop thinking anything shameless! Anyway, the thing that I have accumulated is nothing but pressure!"

While Ash is trying to talk back -

Lucca looks up at the ceiling and mutters. "Something... is approaching."

The unique ears that only an Ecbald have are showing their reaction by twitching.

Ash eyes are directed to Lucca –

''- Toooooooom!''

An explosion like impact causes the glasses in the shop to shake.

"What is happening?"

Rebecca shouts in a nervous voice.

Just when everyone is showing a shocked expression, and intends to rush to the window to take a closer look -

“Pardon me!”<ref>Originally: 失礼致します the original meaning means something like pardon for my interruption or excuse me.</ref>

A woman wearing a yellowish green dragsuit majestically opens the door.

"I am the first-class palace messenger, Olietta Blanc! The Paladin has sent letters to be received by Princess Silvia, Her Royal Highness!"

===Part 2===
Silvia, who has put on her pyjamas, is sitting at the table, reading the letters sent by her father.

The feast is still on-going in the student’s restaurant ‘La Tene’, but Silvia had left before twelve midnight.

Her father’s letter is making her worry endlessly.

Her father has seldom held a pen, and to even make a big fuss to write, the situation should be very urgent.

"Hug...? Just for only such things."

After reading the letter, Silvia moans and groans.

"Haa. Father really knows how to give people trouble."

Silvia throws the letter onto the table and lies down on her bed. After tightly hugging a large size pillow that needs both hands to hold it, she rolls around her bed. Because she was troubled.

"Your actions are bad Princess."

Even when Cosette rebukes her while bringing the herbal tea before bedtime, but Silvia still continues to roll around.

“What did the Paladin state in his letter?”

“He ordered me to...... attend the Continental Congress ‘Elysium’ together.”

"Then I should congratulate Princess."

- Continental Congress ‘Elysium’

For every five years the leader of each country will gather for the congress, such is the tradition of the Ark Strada continent.

The Holy Espada Agency. As the core of the Rosa Maria religion it's in charge of every congress.

The location is decided by the Espada’s Pope through divination.

This year's conference has entered its seventh term and the decided location is Lautreamont Knight Country’s capital Fontaine City.

Certainly everyone in her home town, Fontaine City, has gotten caught up in the mess.

"Do you know that it is this congress that will change the fate of this continent? It is a burden too heavy for me."

"Are these the only things mentioned? According to my observation, Princess is troubled by some other things?"

Once finished, Cosette exposes a smile.

"Why... are you so sure?"

"Because the Princess now is full of a 'woman’s expression'."

"D-Don’t talk nonsense! How can there be any woman's expression!"

"Please excuse me." Cosette politely informs Silvia, takes the Paladin’s letter and reads.

"Oh my! Written on the letter is ‘When returning home, be sure to bring Ash Blake and and young dragon Eco with you’. What type of situation is this?"

Cosette seems to have a gloating look.

"... This means that the father has also heard the rumours about both of them."

"Uhuhu. Going on a journey to go back to Fontaine City together with Ash-sama? Now I know why Princess is troubled. Princess is controlling Lancelot’s reins while Ash-sama is tightly holding your waist from behind-

"Stop having that strange delusion! I tell you, I don’t have any little shameless ideas! Moreover, our Lautreamont family have the family rules that state ‘boys and girls mustn't ride together after seven’! That... I’ll return home on Lancelot, while there will be no problem for him to walk there.”

"My my, what’s there for you to be shy about? Obviously you have ridden with Ash-sama several times."

"...!"

At that moment, she remembers the ride with Ash which gives Silvia a shock. As if she can feel Ash's hands holding her waist tightly.

"Y-You, be quiet!"<ref>煩い it is something like ‘you are noisy’.</ref>

Silvia, knowing her face is red, grabs the pillow and throws it at Cosette with force.

"Mail Dragon ~ A.S.B.1365.7 ~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Novel Illustrations|Illustrations]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue

2014-02-23T22:05:00Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, grammar and phrases.

==Epilogue==
===Part 1===
The tragedy had came to an end.

Even though the enemies had been attacking aggressively none of the students were killed which can be said as lucky.

Angela, who was lost, was eventually found in the mausoleum in one piece.

The room that Angela found was immediately sealed and the palace had sent knights to prevent anyone from entering.

They would probably ask the archaeologists to take charge of the investigations in the near future.

===Part 2===
The students, who were previously scheduled to return to Ansarivan, still remain at Allonnes Lakeside.

Most of the students were helping to rebuild the dragon house that burned down.

Under Rebecca’s supervision the rebuilding project was progressing smoothly. The dragons were also full of renewed spirit as they helped in the rebuilding project.

The only downside was that Ash was confined in the infirmary.

“It huuuuuurts…!”

Ash's injuries had of course worsened when he joined Lucca in performing the Dragon Riding Dance. The whole time, when he was riding on Gawain, he suffered repeatedly from strong centrifugal forces. It is expected that his body will experience this degree of pain, because he was seriously injured beforehand.

It had already been the third day since Lucca started to take care of him.

The way she took care of him could only be describe with the word 'overly pampered'.

Not only did she boil and prepare the herbs, she had collected from Norg Forest, for Ash she also fed him, helped him change and damped off his sweat.

She had also stayed with him the entire time… Ash was happy that Lucca was pampering him but, for her to be with him for the whole time, this had also caused him some other troubles...

===Part 3===
“I will take my rest first, Ash. If you need anything please don’t hesitate to wake me up.”

It was two o’clock on the third day and Lucca had started to feel sleepy. This is the time for her afternoon nap. She wore her one-piece pajama stark naked which made her look a little sexy. It seems that the afternoon nap is an important routine in the Eckbalds’s daily life. Ash had gotten used to it after three days.

“Anyway… She addressed me in my own name!”

Lucca had only addressed Gawain and Rebecca in their names in the past. This change made Ash felt embarrassed.

Looking at her face, Ash suddenly remembered something important.

“That’s right, I remembered that Lucca…”

The incident when he went to the Merk house had appeared in his mind.

“Could it be that… She is not wearing anything right now?”

Just when Ash let his thoughts wander, the door suddenly opened.

Eco was the person who opened the door. Different from the rest of the student council members, Eco had nothing to do and will come visit him once in a while.

But it was only in names sake that she was visiting him. In reality, it had always become an argument.

“Wait a moment, why would both of you sleep together!”

Today was no exception. Once she saw Lucca sleeping, Eco became mad.

“Could you please calm down? Lucca must have been thinking that she was responsible for my injuries so she takes care of me. What were ''you'' thinking about?”

“Even so, you don’t have to sleep together!”

“What!… Aren’t you also the same for taking my bed?” Ash grumbled the complaint…

Eco then squinted her eyes. “What did you say?”

“N-Nothing… I said nothing at all.”

But Ash and Eco, who were too noisy, caused Lucca to turn her back over.

“Fuwaa…”

Lucca still looking sleepy sat up.

“You… I’ll never forgive you! Do you know that feller over there is my meat slave!”

Eco jumped onto the bed and showed her teeth to Lucca while trying to catch her.

But Lucca is a girl who grew up in the forest. Even though she was still sleepy she is still agile. She easily pushed Eco’s hand to one side and moved to her back.

“What…!”

At the same time Eco shouted in surprised, Lucca showed her own rows of white teeth.

Moving swiftly and with a ‘Hmu’, she gently bit Eco’s horn.

“Haa…!”

Eco had lost her strength. This was, next to the herb Ansal, one of her weakness. If not for his friendship with Lucca he would never have learned of this vulnerability.

“Err, am I able to learn… This technique?”

“…This is one of the techniques used to discipline dragons. Even though it was created by the Eckbalds anyone is still able to learn it.”

“Is it. Huhu… Eco.”

Ash was smiling evilly. Seriously speaking, hes been kept on this bed for three days and was bored with it.

“Hold on! You… Want too…!”

Eco was in fear.

“S-Stop! I’ll never allow it! If you even dare to try it… I’ll trample you flat!”

“Don’t be afraid. I just want to have a try. Anyway, don’t you also want to know the results? Since you're my pal!”

“Wha… What are you joking about!”

Eco wanted to run off but she couldn’t.

Because Lucca had carried her over by her waist and passed her to Ash. That action is just like an owner handing his dogs or cats to another person.

“You… You obviously only see me as a dragon!”

“That’s only because you have horns!”

“What did you say… Uhmm!”

Eco’s anger had ended right here.

Because Ash, just like Lucca had, bit her round horn.

===Part 4===
[[Image:SnRK V03 292.jpg|thumb|Eco’s whole body trembled the moment Ash bit her horn.]]

''-Kuk.''

“Ahh!”

Eco’s whole body trembled the moment Ash nipped her horn.

The feeling was different from when Lucca nibbled it. It was in a totally different league by itself.

The moment Ash's teeth touched her horn Eco felt her whole body electrified. Her body was jerking nonstop and was unable to even think straight.

“E-Even when it had said that… You mustn't bite my horns…!”

It’s hot. Her cheeks were hot. Her body was also hot. There’s a particular feeling that was rising up from her lower tummy.

''Why will my body feel so hot… When it is Ash''?

“P-Please… Stop, I beg you… If you keep on with it…!”

Being hugged by Ash while her horn was bitten.

Eco can only continue to beg and struggle, her breathing became heavy...

"The Knight of ECO III" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 4 Novel Illustrations|Volume 4 Novel Illustrations]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4

2014-02-23T05:58:57Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases. Captions. Still editing broken sentences.

==Chapter 4 - The Battle at Willingham Mausoleum==
===Part 1===
Sometime during midnight… Ash slowly sat up.

“It hurtssss…”

Because, of the pain in his joints, he can’t seem to get a good nights sleep. It was because he played in the water earlier during the day.

Silvia and Eco were riding on Lancelot.

Jessica was riding on Rhiannon.

Without any warning… A normal fun time on the water had turned into a two sided battle field of ‘Fighting for Ash’. If they really wanted to play something, Ash hoped that it would be a more peaceful game.

But the swimming wear that both Eco and Silvia wore was deeply engraved in Ash’s mind.

Eco was wearing a white swimming suit which brings out her cute self. Even though her body is still far from perfect… There are still guys who are sure to fall for her innocent self. Although her true ruthless attitude will be exposed as soon as she opens her mou…

On the other hand… Silvia was wearing a sexy bikini. Ash was going to have a nose bleed just by thinking about it. For sure it was not Silvia, who chooses a bikini exposing so much of her skin, but Cosette who was the culprit who force it on her.

Ash quickly removes all this troubles from his mind and left his bed.

The bedroom in the training camp is a twin sharing bedroom. Max was sleeping soundly at the bed beside. Eco was not in the room. It is because the neat freak Max said that ‘sharing a room with a girl is illogical’ so Eco was now taken care by the other girls.

Logically speaking, since it was Cosette, there should not be a reason for him to worry… But Ash had been together with Eco for a long time. If Eco is not beside him he feels uneasy… As if a part of his heart is missing.

“Can’t… I really can’t sleep.”

Ash sighed and slowly stood up. Then he left the room and wanted to ask for a cup of water in the kitchen.

Ash was walking at fast pace along the corridor of the second floor. The old building felt like a haunted house. The kitchen was located on the first floor so he was headed towards the stairs.

The moonlight shines through the windows. Tonight is a full moon with a silver light.

“…Huh?”

Ash stopped beside a window.

He felt a shadow passed by.

“That is…”

Every single corner of the garden can be seen through the corridor’s windows. A girl can be seen walking under the moonlight. She was wearing a one-piece pajama. Ash recognized her.

“Is it… Lucca?”

Under the moonlight the golden white hair emits a mysterious light. Even her white ceramic-like skin was as if shining. Her pointy ears can be seen indistinctly poking out from her hair.

Lucca walked past the garden with her unsteady steps and through the old back door. Beyond the back door is deep and endless piece of forest. - Norg Forest.

In a blink of an eye… Lucca disappears into the forest.

“Hey… What is she thinking?”

Ash rushed down the stairs to the garden through the door specially used by the instructors. He rushed at a fast speed to the back door then following the stone slabs to the edge of the forest and stops. After he was mentally prepared… He walked to the forest.

But, just as he step into the Norg Forest, he immediately took a steps back.

“…Are you kidding me?”

Ash originally thought that he was used moving in the forest, but that is only limited to day time. This is the first time he was going to enter the forest at night! Even the wet ground had a different smell. The nocturnal animals and night bugs creeps the hell out of him. The lush branches of the trees had the sky covered which blocked whatever moonlight there was from piercing through. Also. There were noises that he suspected to be the sounds of an owl.

''Could it be that Lucca is just an imagination?'' Ash secretly hoped that this is true.

“Wait a minute…”

The Eckbalds were also known as the ‘Forest Yōsei’. Actually. The self ruling territory of the Eckbalds, within the Knight Country, is a wide forest called ‘Eckbald forest’. Maybe, to Lucca, every forest is like the garden back at her home.

After Ash mustered his courage… He moved forward while trying to feel his way along with his hands. The rough tree bark made him feel at ease, but every time he touches something slimy, he will immediately retract his hand. If there is a small animal, that passed by his feet, he will immediately jump.

“This is bad for my heart…”

Ash complained while walking and unconsciously thought about Gawain. All the other dragons were together in the dragon house of the training camp and only Gawain alone was resting in Norg Forest. It is because Norg Forest is a well known resting spot for dragons.

“I see. She went to look for Gawain…”

Ash, who realized the truth, continued to walk deeper into the forest.

After a while… His field of vision widens.

In front of him is an empty space. The moonlight shines directly from the sky. There is a pond in the empty space and the water was reflecting the silvery moonlight.

Gawain cuddled onto itself while lying beside the pond.

Its shining white fur was reflecting the moonlight.

Lucca was standing some distance away from Gawain. For a breeder, the amount of distance was weird.

Ash found out that Lucca’s shoulders were shaking.

“Please, Gawain, I… Can’t live without you.”

Lucca was calling after Gawain in a pitiful tone while Ash hid behind a tree and listened.

“The only Eckbald left in Ansarivan… Is only me. The people in our home town have placed high hopes on me.”

Gawain didn’t answer. It is still with its same old self.

“Why must you reject me? I had always treated you as family. When you became a maestro I was very happy. But why…?”

Suddenly. Some unexpected things happened.

“Grrrrrr…”

Gawain actually lifted its neck to scare Lucca. Lucca was afraid to move forward and fell to the ground on the spot.

Then she silently cried.

The sounds of the owls and the wings of the insects suddenly stopped… Most probably caused by Gawain’s growl. In the silent night the only sound, that could be heard, was Lucca's crying.

''-Crack!'' Ash stepped on a dried branch.

''Damn!''- The sound was tremendously clear in the middle of the night. He regretted it as soon he understood what had happened.

“…?”

Lucca, while wiping of her tears, turned back and looked at Ash’s direction. It seemed that there was no longer a point for him to be hiding. After Ash made up his mind… He walked out and towards Lucca.

“You are… From the student council?”

It seems that she didn’t remember Ash’s name. But since she also didn’t even remember Silvia’s name… This was expected.

Ash stated his name while smiling. “I’m Ash.”

“…Why are you here?”

“Sorry. I accidentally saw you running into the woods…”

After Ash explained. He looked at Gawain.

Gawain had frightened Lucca just now. That was a total rejection.

Lucca treated Gawain as her family which is undoubtedly the right thing to do… But Ash still didn’t understand why Gawain was not bothered by it. The image of Lucca sobbing remains in Ash's mind…

In a few moments, it had turned into determination.

Ash as if he wanted to protect Lucca stood in front of Gawain.

“Say, Lucca. The previous experiment… Can I have it continued right now?”

Lucca gasped.

“This… Has nothing to do with you.”

“No. Of course it has something to do with me.”

Ash took a step closer to Gawain.

“This fellow had made you cry. This reason alone should be enough for me to interfere.”

===Part 2===
Anya was looking, at Ash's sudden challenge with Gawain, from afar.

“That guy… What is he trying to do?”

Anya followed her plan, which was, working at the training campsite at Allonnes Lakeside presenting herself as a waitress at the student restaurant ‘La Tene’. The work to prepare the food was more troublesome than she thought. It was already midnight before her job was done.

On her way back to her room, for a rest from the kitchen, she accidentally spied Ash.

Anya was interested in Ash who had sneaked out and into the Norg Forest.

After all… The reason, why Anya worked hard to infiltrate ‘La Tene’, was to investigate Ash Blake. She thought that she had a better chance to come into contact with Ash in the restricted area of the training camp compared to the large area of the school grounds.

For Ash to run out into the middle of the forest was out of Anya’s expectation. He even challenged Gawain.

As for the matters concerning Gawain… Anya also heard something regarding it. It was said that it was resting in Norg forest because it wasn't feeling well.

Anya couldn’t figure out any reason to bring a sick maestro here. The rest of the staff in charge of the foods also didn’t receive any information regarding it. - There was probably no reason for the basic staff to know about it.

Ash was protecting a girl at his back. To her surprise… She was an Eckbald. ''Her name should be Lucca Saarinen…'' Anya secretly thought. She had memorized all the names of the student who attended the training camp before hand.

From their conversations that she could not hear clearly, it seems that Lucca’s and Gawain’s relationship right now was bad. So Ash wanted to help her to solve this problem- This should be the whole picture for the incident.

Ash is probably thinking about riding on Gawain just like how he defeated the Necromanica.

“What is this about… Trying to play the hero in front of a cute girl.”

Anya wonders why would she suddenly gets mad for.

===Part 3===
The sharp claws tore through the moonlight mercilessly.

Ash immediately jumped aside from the strong front paw. He will die in a horrible way if he faces it directly.

“Stop…!”

Lucca shouted at the top of her voice but Gawain had no intention of stopping.

After its front paw missed… Gawain’s weakness was exposed. Ash uses that opportunity to step on a tree branch to climb up a nearby tree. After he reached a suitably thick branch he followed it out and looked downward.

Gawain’s entire back was in his view.

“Uoooooo!”

Ash decided to jump down from the branch.

Gawain was not in his riding gear but this is just what Ash wanted. He had decided, that when riding on a dragon, the riding gear would only be in his way. Actually… Ash had heard before, in class, that ‘All the great riders hated the riding gear’.

“You are now under my control!”

Ash successfully landed on Gawain’s back. Like how a horse riding tribe will typically mount a horse without a saddle… Ash was now riding on Gawain’s naked back . His hands were holding tightly onto its neck. He swore not to let go of it even when Gawain tried to shake him off with its dragon strength.

“Grrrr…”

The thrash that Ash experienced nearly made him faint. He still kept telling himself never to let go.

Ash, with all his might, tried to tame Gawain and tried to persuade it to accept Lucca again.

But suddenly… Gawain gave an earth shattering roar.

“What’s happening…?”

Ash felt fear. But, unless Ash let loose from his grip, Gawain had no chance of winning. As long as Ash remains on its back… Gawain can’t use its breath attack, magic, teeth or claws.

If it is so, then what is the uneasiness he was felling.

Even when Ash had a complete advantage, of mounting it on the back, he felt an uneasiness deep inside as if–he–was the one whose back was exposed to a shinigami. <ref>God of death. Grim Reaper.</ref>

At that moment there was a wave of magic that felt like it exploded out from Gawain’s body.

“Uwaaa…!”

Ash was thrown into the air by an invincible wall.

His sight was spinning.

The bright moonlight came into his view for a moment.

Ash, who was still spinning in midair, had nowhere to escape. Gawain, like a whip, swatted its tail at Ash.

''“*Cough*…!”''

It was a direct hit on Ash.

An unimaginable strong impact swept from his chest passing on to his abdomen and sent him flying, parallel with the ground, until he hit a tree and only then did he slowly fall to the ground.

''“*Coug*…*Cough*…!”''

Ash coughed and then even coughed out blood. He probably had internal injuries. He was making some weird noises from his throat… Which was probably caused by a broken bone that punctured his lungs.

To make it worse… The blood from his head flowed in to his left eye blinding half of his view.

His body totally ignored his orders. Ash felt a cold chill. He didn’t know how serious his injuries were. The thing that frightened him the most was… He can’t even feel a single pain after such serious injuries. As if this body is not his.

''Will my life end like this…?'' Ash almost lost hope.

Eco's face suddenly emerged in his mind.

''An angry face. An angry face. An angry face… No matter what. It is always an angry face. Even so… I hope that she would smile to me more often. A pure cheerful smile.''

''-Stop! What am I thinking about? Isn’t this… No different from dying. How could Eco smile at me…''

With his back on the tree… Ash mustered all his remaining strength and glared at Gawain.

“Grrrr….”

Gawain was threatening Ash.

Ash had just realized there was a thin layer of magic on its body. That's the reason he was sent flying, it was a thin layer of magic.

“Reflecting type… Defense magic!”

This is a high level magic that could only be activated by a maestro.

The effect of this magic was not to neutralize an attack but to reflect it. Even though Ash was only clinging on to Gawain… But it probably interpreted Ash's presence as an ‘attack’. Could this have anything to do with his ability ‘to ride on any dragon’?

“Just what kind of rascal is it…”

Under those conditions Gawain could even use its defense magic to eliminate Ash. If it was any other dragon Ash's 'riding on their back' talent would have them tamed.

He already reached his limit.

Just before he loses consciousness… He felt that he heard Lucca calling after him.

===Part 4===
“This couldn’t be true…”

Anya watched the whole breath taking event. An empty handed human versus a dragon… That was clearly a stupid move but Anya still thinks that there is hope deep inside her heart. Since Ash is the famous ‘Silver Knight’.

But the result is clear in a blink of an eye.

“Just what kind of rascal is it…”

Ash who was hit by the dragon’s tail pitifully, even though he still remained conscious after he landed, after this words, he remained motionless.

Maybe he was dead. Ash, under the moonlight, could only be described as pitiful.

Not only that his head was bleeding nonstop, he even threw out blood. The seriousness of his internal injuries is even hard to determine.

Then, Lucca, made a sad voice.

“Nooooo!”

Lucca, who was pale in the face, rushed over to Ash. But she quickly panicked as Ash's injuries were pretty much lethal. She didn’t know what to do.

At this moment… Anya was thinking about two things.

''-If she left him as he is, he will die sooner or later. Serve him right for showing off and ruining Milgauss-sams’s plan. This is his divine punishment.''

''-But I still owe him. If I don’t save him… Won’t I lose my honor as a Tantalos? The fellow had saved me once without thinking about the'' ''consequences…''

“Damn!”

She was lost for just a moment. Ash's life could not be guaranteed if it was left in the hand of the unreliable girl.

If she is unlucky there will be questions about why would a staff member, in charge of food service, be in the Norg Forest. Well. That will be a problem in the future but she just needs to make an excuse to cover up.

Anya rushed out from the trees and pushed Lucca aside.

She discovered that Lucca, who was suffering from trauma herself, is trying to carry Ash’s upper body. Didn’t she know that simply moving the body, of an injured person, will put their life in danger?

“What are you doing?! I’ll take care of the emergency treatment. Go and look for help!”

“Y-Yes.”

Even though Lucca was still troubled… She still knew the seriousness of the current situation and there was not a single moment to be wasted. She turned around and ran as if she was trying to blend into the darkness of the forest.

===Part 5===
“…”

When he regained consciousness… He was in a strange place.

The floors had alternating black and white tiles laid out like a checkerboard. There were many semi-completed objects hanging randomly on the walls. Human bodies, beasts, armours, buildings and many more. On the ceiling was a grand palace-like Chandelier which was a bright-dragon-crystal light.

There was an antique bed in the middle of the room and Ash was resting there.

“I remember that…”

''I lost to Gawain and was seriously injured. Even though he still remembered the incident… There are only just fragments of memories. Even though he was seriously injured he still doesn't feel any pain or even a wound on his body. His uniform which was originally covered in blood had become clean. This was weird.''

“Are you awake?”

“Uwaa!”

After someone breathed in his ear Ash immediately sat up in fear. A girl right next to him, sitting beside the bed, was there without him even knowing.

“It has been some time since we saw each other face to face!”

The girl was beautiful. Her dress clearly highlighted her curves. Even though she had two horns on her head they were still not very noticeable. Her hair was like Eco’s shiny pink colored hair.

“Are you… Navi?”

Ash had met her about a week before Eco was born. No… ‘Met’ was not the right word to describe this situation… Because he saw Navi in his dreams.

The Navi in his dreams had explored his body all over. Just by thinking about it Ash blushed.

“Tee Hee…”

After Navi gave a devilish smile she leaned forward. Ash could smell something nice, but when he found out that he was on a bed, he started to feel uneasy.

“Wait!”

Ash averted his eyes from Navi’s huge breast and shouted.

“Navi, if you are here, then… I should be dreaming. Right? No. There is no other explanation. Because I who was seriously injured don’t even have a scratch on me right now!”

“You are not dreaming.”

“I-If I’m not dreaming… Then I’m in ‘that world’?"

Navi laughed because she probably thinks that Ash’s panicking looks funny.

“This is just the Dragon Workshop! The place where dragons made/make their creations. I’m the one responsible for summoning you here.”

“Even though I still don’t really understand the current situation… At least I’m alive… No?”

“As long as your true body is safe.”

“What do you mean?”

“The you now, here, is nothing but a spirit.”

“Is that true…”

Ash turned down his head to observe his own body.

“That’s right. Your spirit has now left your body. If your body in the material world stops functioning, then you have nowhere to go.”

“Y-You must be kidding! Let me return to my original state immediately!”

“Worry not. There is a reason for me to personally bring you here. This child has something that it wants to tell you.”

Just like agreeing with Navi-

“Kyuu.”

A small animal popped out from over her shoulder. After taking a closer look, even though it had the size of a rat, it's still a dragon.

“That dragon is?”

“This is Gawain. Although it's a maestro it has not yet matured mentally so it looks is like this while here.”

“T-This little guy is really Gawain…?”

Ash kept on examination the small animal in front of him. After being told by Navi… This dragon did indeed have some similarities with Gawain.

“Fufu… If we were to fight right now… Isn’t it a sure win for me?”

“Kyun!”

Gawain gave out a frightened voice and hid behind Navi.

“…Tsk. Pretending to be the nice guy. So. What do you want to tell me? Before that, let me say, I was nearly killed by you.”

After Ash asked… Gawain made a soft sound while coming out to stand on Navi’s shoulder. It seems that it was trying to ask Navi to become the translator.

After Gawain finished speaking, Navi looked at Ash.

“Gawain said that its master is Lucca and Lucca alone. The reason why it reject you was because it doesn’t want anyone apart from Lucca to ride on its back. Even when you were the ‘The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon’.”

“What are you talking about! You were obviously rejecting Lucca this whole time…”

“Kyuun!”

After Gawain made another angry sound it then explained its reason for rejecting Lucca to Navi.

“…I see. Navi said. Gawain was worried about Lucca and thus rejected her. According to Gawain… Lucca had fallen from its back about three months ago.”

“Huh…? I have never heard of this.”

Ash felt that he being was hit on the head. Three months ago was the time when Gawain started to reject Lucca.

“The Eckbald, as a dragon affiliated race, regard themselves highly and believe that falling from a dragon is a disgrace. That’s why Lucca had never told anyone about this.”

Although Ash doesn’t really know how Lucca is feeling if it's an Eckbald culture… Then he could only accept it.

“Then… Under what circumstances did she fall?”

“Have you ever heard of the Dragon Riding Dance that is passed down by the Eckbald leaders?”

“No. This is my first time hearing about it.”

“Just like what the words say… It is dancing on a dragon while riding. Although Lucca kept silent about this... She was destined to become the leader. So she must start practicing young. Not to mention, if the Dragon Riding Dance was a success, there will be an activation of various types of magic!”

“So you are saying that, in the middle of practicing the Dragon Riding Dance, she fell?"

“That’s right. Since she fell from Gawain she was traumatized. She stood far away from Gawain. Although she was lucky that she only had light injuries… She now lives under the shadow of those memories…”

“Traumatized? I can’t even see that happening.”

“I think that even she herself doesn’t know how much fear is hidden in her heart right now.”

Ash unintentionally said something important.

“Then… Lucca stayed quite far away from Gawain in the Norg forest. She doesn’t even try to pet it. Even at the seventh dragon house in the academy she also maintained her distance.”

''So the unnatural distance was caused by Lucca’s trauma…!''

“If she tried to ride a dragon, with those mixed feelings, she will one day face serious injuries. If a Dragner was afraid of his pal… His future will be at best terrible and at worst he will die. It's because Gawain is worried about Lucca… So it remained stern in not letting Lucca ride on it.”

“I see. So, Gawain, I can see that you are kind! But why was your Astral cut off?”

“After the magic of Wise Dragon Albion was activated the dragons were under special restrictions. One of them was; The more you go against a master’s orders the less astral you will receive. If this situation keeps on… Gawain will die soon. Even with the Norg Forest supplying some Astral… It is still hard to say whether it can survive for more than five more days.”

“-!”

Ash held his breath.

''Only a mere five days.'' Ash had never thought that the situation was this critical.

“Gawain… Would you rather sacrifice your life to protect Lucca?”

Ash spoke to Gawain seriously but it was with its haughty look

Ash who replied with a wry smile suddenly felt something was off.

“…Huh?”

Ash quickly looked at his own body. His skin became transparent and he felt an irresistible force pulling his body.

The truth is… Ash's legs were slowly lifting from the ground.

If this continues… Then he will be floating in a few moments.

“Hey, hey… what is…?"

“It seems that you are leaving.”

Navi calmly told the good news.

“Huh!”

Without knowing whether she was enjoying Ash’s changes in expressions, Navi smiled.

“Even though I said that you are leaving… It's different from what you are thinking. Your body is healing and thus summoning your spirit back. This is the law of nature.”

Ash was relieved after hearing Navi’s explanation.

“So… I’m safe?"

“That’s it.”

Navi stood up from beside the bed and walk towards Ash. There were some redness on her face. Were those illusions?

“I’ll be waiting for your growth –– ‘Knight of Avalon’.”

“Avalon? What does it mean?”

Navi gave a simple tap on his face as an answer. Although he was still at his spiritual state, he could still clearly feel the softness of a girl’s palm.

“Fufu. You must learn to ride on me as soon as possible!”

“But my pal is Eco…”

“Eco and I are two surfaces on a coin. If you ride on her, it also means, you are riding on me.”

“What does that mean-?”
[[Image:SnRK V03 181.jpg|thumb|Ash was no longer able to resist the strong force and was swallowed by the darkness.]]

Ash was not allowed to ask any further questions. It was because that Navi was kissing him passionately.

“Mguk...!”

Navi’s watery lips had warped up Ash’s lower lips. Before he could react… His upper lip was also sucked in by Navi. Both of their salivas flowed together. Just when their mouths were wet, Navi forces her tongue into Ash’s mouth.

“....Nn!”

Their slippery tongues were curled together.

...Until he was separated from Navi... Ash's thoughts was in a mess. After this intense experience… Ash only knew that there exists such a kiss.

Navi was with her, rarely seen, blushing looks and crimson red watery iris.

“I hoped that you can have such a kiss with Eco one day in the future.”

“Wh- What are you talking about!”

“Fufu. Let’s us meet on another day.”

At the same time, as Navi was speaking with her watery lips, Ash was no longer able to resist the strong force and was swallowed by the darkness.

===Part 6===
“I’m at…?”

Ash had also woken up in a strange room this time. The only thing is… This place doesn’t have the supernatural feel of the Dragon Workshop.

The smell of the antiseptic, white curtains and medicine on the shelves. From the semi-drawn back curtains Allonnes lakeside could be seen with thick white mist.

This should be the infirmary for the training camp.

Ash suddenly felt that he was touching something weird.

“... What’s this?”

Ash curiously moved his right hand that was under the blanket. It felt slippery and soft and there is a hint of heat from it. It obviously felt like a living thing.

“Eeeehhhhhh!”

Ash was shocked and jumped on the spot. Although his body hurts… This is not the time to worry about that.

The moment he flipped over the blanket… He saw something unbelievable. Even after he immediately covers it back up with the blanket… But the image he saw had been deeply carved into his mind.

“Why… Is Lucca here?”

Ash was sweating a huge amount of sweat.

That’s right, the thing, under the blanket was no other than Lucca.

And… She was naked.

Because she slept in such a way, like a baby cuddling up, that’s why at least her important parts weren't seen… But the stimulation to his heart was still intense.

At the same time… Ash also found out that his clothes were removed totally, although there were bandages on his chest, there isn’t a single piece of clothing left.

It is probably that the clothes will interfere with his treatment. So the reason why he was naked can still be explained. But… Why would Lucca was sleeping on the same bed as him naked?”

Ash looked all over the infirmary again. From the looks of the sky it should be in the morning right now. Not a sound could be heard from the lakeside.

Surrounding the bed were placed silver flasks that looked like lamp stands.

“This is…?”

There were water colored crystals on top of each of the flasks. Ash found out that they are those expensive Bright Dragon Crystals with healing effect.

It was said that the training given in the training camp was strict and thus the amount of injured students were high. These should be the medical supplies prepared by the academy.

“I see… Thanks to the healing magic. I can continue to live on.” Ash nodded after it dawned on him.

His chest suddenly hurts.

“It hurts!"

Even when they have used healing magic, it seems that, he won’t be able to fully recover in a short time. Ash unintentionally placed his hand on his head and found out that he also had bandages on his head too.

From his injuries, it is apparent, he will be treated as a patient for some time.

Just when Ash sighed, Lucca unwittingly made a small noise.

“Nn...”

Her pointy ears twitched cutely.

“Fuuwa!”

After a few moments Lucca, with a very sleepy face, slowly sat up. She generously showed her flat chest to Ash and dazed at him with her sleepy eyes… Until the moment when her vision was focused. She suddenly grabs and hugs Ash.

“Luckily… You were all right…!”

“Uwaaa!” Ash was thrown into a panic after being hugged by a lovely Yōsei girl.

To make it worse… They were on a bed… Naked.

“It huuuurts!”

The moment Lucca hugged him tightly his entire chest hurts. Now is not the time for him to blush in the presence of a naked Yōsei body .

“S-Sorry...”

She let go of Ash gloomily.

Ash, averting his eyes away from the white tender naked body, simply came out with the question...

“I-It’s alright, because I’m already healed, b-but could you please put on some clothes? Back to the topic… Why were you sleeping on the same bed with me?”

“…”

Lucca reached to pick up her one-piece pajama from the floor, while Ash made use of this time to cover his own naked body with the blanket.

Lucca, who had gotten up to put on her pajama, sat down on a chair beside the bed and only then did she answer Ash's question.

“It was because your body’s temperature was dropping… So I’m trying to warm you up.

“I-Is it so. Thank you very much.”

After thanking her kindly… Ash remembered the incident that happened in the Dragon Workshop.

“That’s right…! It may be hard to believe, but… I was at the Dragon Workshop!”

“Dragon Workshop?”

Lucca was surprised.

“That’s it. The workshop where the dragons fabricate their creations. I had a conversation there with Gawain.”

“Huh…?”

Ash tried to explain to Lucca who was stunned.

===Part 7===
After Ash told her the truth, Lucca was in tears.

“Why… Gawain… Because of me… Just because to protect me… It would rather sacrifice its life...”

When he saw Lucca’s shaking shoulders, as she was crying, Ash discovered something.

He had thought of her as a girl without emotions. But that's not the truth. She is just someone who can’t express her emotions well. Her crying for Gawain is the only proof needed.

Thinking back carefully. It was the same during that time.

In the forest during the full moon… Lucca also cried. Ash decision to challenge Gawain was also because of his sympathy for her-

“That’s right. Gawain didn’t allow you to ride on its back because it was worried about you. If the rider was to be afraid of its pal… Then his life will be threatened…”

“It’s… All because of me…”

“Summon your courage!” Although he knows this is a little cruel to her, Ash still shouts it.

Because Navi had already notified him in the Dragon Workshop that Gawain’s life has…

“Please calm down and hear me out. Gawain had only a few more days to live… According to the information that I had received from the Dragon Workshop it can only live for a mere five more days.”

Upon hearing that… Lucca was visibly shaken.

“Before that… How many days have I been sleeping?”

After Ash had asked… Lucca answered by mumbling with her face looking more pale than ever.

“Today is… The sixth day.”

“Huh?”

Ash was taken aback. This means that he had lost consciousness since the first night of the training camp until just now.

Although the training camp lasts for seven days, in reality, there is nothing wrong about taking the sixth day as the last. Because on the seventh day they would only be returning to Ansarivan- just like that.

Also… The main event of the sixth day of the training camp would be cleaning the campsite. The closing ceremony would be held that evening.

In another words… The Selective Training Camp is as good as over.

But Ash didn’t think that he had wasted his time here. The truth wouldn't have been revealed if he had not challenged Gawain.

The thing is… They must make sure of Gawain’s safety. If Navi's prediction is correct… Gawain will die any moment.

“Lucca! Look for Gawain immediately!”

“But… I can’t leave you.”

“I’m already alright. Right now, you must only think about Gawain!”

“…Understood.”

Lucca rubbed off her tears and lifted her head.

Her gaze was full of determination and it moved his heart.

After Ash had nodded to her… Lucca rushed out from the infirmary.

Navi had made a ‘five days’ death declaration.

But Ash had slept for five days…

Just when Ash was worried and held his fist up without being interfered by the pain-

“Ash!”

The owner of the voice who rushed into the room seems to be Eco. Her shiny hair sways as she rushed up to the bed side.

It's likely that Ash was thinking too much when he thought Eco looked tired. Just maybe she hadn’t slept well and her red swollen eyes are alone enough to give him a heartache. It's possibly because she cried a lot after the incident. Ash thought that his heart was going to break.

''-I will not be able to escape from a punch or two from her…'' Ash fears rightly.

Ash was prepared to be hit, but surprisingly Eco was only cuddling in front of the blanket.

“Baka, baka, baka! <ref>Moron</ref> I thought that… Thought that you were going to die! What were you doing? You are owned by me! Don't you know that…!”

Eco hid her face in the blanket and started sobbing.

“Sorry. Eco.”

Ash was petting Eco’s head while bearing with the pain.

Thinking back carefully… The morning alarm must not have rung yet. But Eco, who usually was a sleep-in, had rushed here early in the morning.

''Although she refuses to admit it. She is evidently still my pal…'' Ash was happy down to the depths of his heart.

But the peaceful moment only lasted for a while.

“It is good to hear that you had regained consciousness.”

The student council’s members, led by Rebecca, rushed into the infirmary as a crowd.

“You moron!”

Silvia unhappily scolded.

“Thanks to you for being an idiot I can fully enjoy a twin-sharing bedroom by myself.”

Max was insulting him while adjusting his spectacles on his nose.

“…”

Only Jessica remained troubled and moved her suprisingly sensitive nose around Ash’s blanket. Logically speaking… She should be the first person to hug Ash…

“…What are you doing?”

Upon asking that… Jessica sharply glared at him.

“What is this about…! Why is the blanket full of Lucca-san’s smell! Could it be that Ash-sama… Likes those types of young girls?”

“No… It's not like that!”

Ash became nervous, since it was true that Lucca was sleeping with him, which made it all that much harder to give an explanation.

“What did you say!”

Eco was the first to react after hearing Jessica’s words. It was as if she had transformed into another person. She sniffed the blanket with a cold expression and her eyes widen.

“It's true! This smell of herbal medicine… Is from that Eckbald!”

“C-Calm down. I beg you to calm down first Eco.”

Ash was under great pressure. Although he desperatly wanted to escape through the window he was still stark naked. Once he climbed out from the window his naked body will be exposed. This was a situation where he couldn’t do what he wanted.

“Hold on… Are you insane? Even I, as your master, was not allowed to enter and had to give up on visiting you. But you…”

“I-Is that so?” Ash had wondered about that.

Judging from what she had said… Lucca seemed to have entered the infirmary without permission.

“Ash. You rascal… There are so many to choose from and yet you choose a young junior and lured her into your bed…? Yet why aren't you concerned about the condition of your own health and how we worried about you…”

Silvia’s body was trembling.

“That’s not it… I didn’t lure anyone into my bed! Don’t go on spouting nonsense!”

Too bad for him, but, Silvia didn’t have any intention of listening.

“An enemy of women must face the judgment of the hammer of death!”

Aahh, it seems, that inevitably, I’m going to face some pain… Ash felt like crying.

“Ho-Hold on! I’m still a patient… No?”

But Silvia had long ago clenched her fist tightly and was not at all bothered by Ash’s begging.

Eco too also angrily lifted her right foot.

“This is Lautreamont’s family's rules!”

“I’m gonna trample you!”

===Part 8===

“Huu… In the end, there isn’t a single useful result that was obtained.”

On her right hand was a bright dragon crystal powered torch and on her left’s was a map of the Willingham Mausoleum. Angela sigh in disappointment.

Angela alone had gone through the journey of the exploration of the Willingham Mausoleum.

Although basically she came here as a campsite instructor… Her original motive was still the Willingham Mausoleum. If not because of this… She would never have agree to go to the Selective Training Camp full of sweat and smells.

This was the sixth day she was investigating the Willingham Mausoleum. Since, the first day she arrived at Allonnes Lakeside, she had immediately came here.

“Although the historical value is hard to predict… This is really a letdown.”

Willingham Mausoleum was a grave that was built from a natural cave. The atmosphere was peaceful inside the Willingham Mausoleum which was due to its two thousand years of history.

Angela found quite a number of dragon fossils. She had originally thought that since this is a mausoleum, all the bodies will be buried nicely. But, there seems to be exception.

“…Huh?”

Just when Angela was marching towards the exit. -She suddenly stood still.

In front of her was a strange fork road. Angela, who was always calm, had just turned pale.

“Could it be…”

Angela had inspected the map for one more time. This was a totally different place compared to the intended route. It seems that she was lost because of her carelessness. Her deduction skills had dropped probably because of her lack of sleep.

''No matter what, if I don’t find a way out… I’m sure to meet the same fate as these dragons.'' Angela feared.

“Since I had been in love with the dragons for a long time… It's not a bad idea to be buried with them... Like hell I would!”

Angela, while commenting to herself, was thinking about her troubles.

Basically. All the instructors and students knew she is at Willingham Mausoleum. If she returned late… They will send someone to search for her.

“I’m really… How could I be this unlucky!”

After putting down her luggage Angela rested with her back facing the rocks. She thinks that this is not a time for her to be running around in panic.

''-Click.''

In a few moments… She heard voices that could never be found in nature.

“…?"

At the same time, while making a ‘Ssssssss’ sound, the wall behind Angela moved.

“T-This is?"

Angela immediately turned her head around. The place where there originally should have been rocks now has a rectangular hole. She immediately shine the hole with her bright dragon crystal powered torch.

The hole is suspected to be a secret passage where the end couldn't even be seen.

“Could it be that… This mechanism was designed by the dragons?"

Although the details weren't clear… What she can be sure of is that she accidentally set off the trigger. But under the eyes of a commoner this passage would just seem like a normal natural cave…

After wiping of the dust off her spectacles Angela shouted in joy.

“Who would know that such mechanisms exist. This is the century’s biggest discovery!”

Angela had forgotten that she was in a fix and lifted her bright dragon crystal powered torch while stepping into the secret passage.

===Part 9===
“This is just too good to be true…!”

At the end of the secret passage Angela gave another cheer.

There was a space here that had nothing to do with the mausoleum at all.

It is the size of a classroom at the academy. In this dug out space, bookshelves, tables, sofas and other furniture can be seen.

There were carpets of different designs on the floor that gave it an elegant atmosphere.

After the torch was shone on the ceiling, Angela was stunned.

“That’s…”

On the ceiling was an extravagant chandelier. But it still seemed logical since it had bright-dragon-crystal in it. If any grave robbers had found it, they will be sure to move it away immediately.

Angela looked upwards and sang a chant. What she was singing was a basic level oracle and the light immediately lightens up. A light far stronger than the torch had lit the room and thus Angela was able to explore every single corner.

“This carpet, without a doubt, it is a dragon’s creation. This design was once very popular among the dragons of about a thousand years ago. The rest of the furniture also has the dragons’ style…”

The dragons, who were at the same time artisans, have special taste for beauty. It is totally different from humans’ design.

“What is the reason for the dragons to build this room…?”

Angela suddenly looked at the table.

There was a book that was an inch thick lying on the antique table. The book itself emits a serious feeling that made it seem like it was the owner of this room.

“Is it… To pass this book to the humans…?’

Angela approached the table and took the book. The over luxurious looks gave a deep impression and the weight is extremely heavy, just like an encyclopedia.

“Could…. This be the ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’…?”

Angela’s spectacles nearly slide off her nose.

The Chevron Kingdom and the Knight Country worships Rosa Maria and made it as the country’s religion. The bible that records the teaching is usually called the Stella Biblia

The Stella Biblia records about the life of Saint Rosa Maria and her pal Eco. The believers learn the religion’s teaching through the study of Rosa Maria and Eco’s way of life. The reason why Ash named his pal ‘Eco’ is because of he was influenced by this Stella Biblia.

By the way, although it was said that the ‘Stella Biblia’ have two versions which are the ‘Old Testament’ and ‘New Testament”, but only the ‘New Testament’ is recognized by the headquarters for the Rosa Maria religion's - Holy Espada Agency. Just not too long ago even the Old Testament was banned…

Angela happily flipped over the pages and read out a few sentences.

“…After the wise dragon Inbroke, two major bloodlines were formed. They are the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family and the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family. An endless war started from these two families-.”

Angela was confused.

“T-This… did this happen during the ancient kingdom…? But it felt like a legend after reading…”

As if it was to help Angela to get rid of her trouble, a sound of another person was heard in the room.

“No, that is exactly the truth.”

“-!”

Angela immediately hid the Old Testament of the Stella Biblia in between her arms and coldly glared at the intruder.

“A grave robber? No… You don’t look like that kind of person.”

“In the ancient times… When the Zono Ton Enlightenment had started in this Ark Strada Continent… The two families who inherited the wise dragon Inbroke’s bloodline had started the bloody war."

A tall and skinny guy said this story.

The only thing that can be clearly seen was his silver mask. His expression was hard to be judged because his eyes were covered. There were a few strands of red hairs mixing in with the rest of his silvery hair and he emits an evil aura.

Although, his attire is of a mercenary, he gave out an extraordinary feel that made his clothes stand out.

An oat colored skin girl was silently standing behind him. Her face looks handsome and cute but her eyes express strong determination.

This small sized girl was wearing her tribal gear. The metal glove in her left hand attracts attention and there is a high possibility that there are weapons in it.

“Both of you are…!”

Angela remembered.

The two suspicious people that Ash met in the forest about two months ago.

Angela had also gone through the reports that the student council sorted. According to it… The girl called the guy ‘Milgauss-sama’.

“Why would both of you come to these ruins?”

Angela acted calm and asked them coolly.

On her right hand was a bright-dragon-crystal made ring. The red crystal signifies a fire element.

Her only winning chance will be the element of surprise…

But Milgauss, as if he had already knew what she was thinking, said:

“You wanted to use the red-flame dragon’s-breath as an attack. No?”

Angela gasped after her intention of using the oracle had been found out.

“I’ll advise you for not doing that. Those puny flames, that can only kill dragonflies, can hurt me? To dragons, those flames were nothing. Am I wrong Ann?”
[[Image:SnRK V03 201.jpg|thumb|“You wanted to use the red flame dragon’s breath as an attack. No?”]]

“What…!”

Angela’s eyes widen. If that guy addressed her as ‘Professor Cornwell’ she wouldn’t even be surprised. Since she is one of the top researchers for the dragons it would be normal if people of the Zepharos Empire recognized her.

But Milgauss addressed her as ‘Ann’.

“Y-You… Could you be…!”

In the mean time, she felt something was off. Until the moment her feeling turned into reality, the ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’ had fallen on to the ground.

Angela was no stranger to Milgauss's elegant voice.

Logically speaking… This is their first meeting but Angela recognized that voice.

Once she realized the truth, in her eyes, Milgauss's standing posture and his hidden smile overlapped with ‘the person’ she recognized.

''-I knew this guy! But he… Shouldn't even be living…''

Angela’s lips trembled while looking at Milgauss’s face. ''How could this be''… Angela couldn’t help but keep on thinking about the face underneath the mask.

===Part 10===
It was twelve years before.

The young genius girl - Angela Cornwell, who was thirteen at that time, had graduated from the University of Fontaine City and wanted to move overseas for further studies.

The location was the highest academy institution in Chevron Kingdom, University of Feachador. The education fees were fully covered by the Knight’s royal family.

It was in the university’s research lab that Angela met the ‘Ouji-sama’<ref>Prince</ref>

That time should be around mid-summer. In the month of Leo.

That day was the University of Feachador’s anniversary and the whole place was crowded.

But only Angela alone was in the research lab still doing research about dragons. The lecturers and the students had gone out to enjoy the celebration.

But someone appeared in front Angela who was in the middle of her research. That person was Julius.

Julius Lautreamont made use of the Ansarivan’s Dragon Riding Academy’s summer break opportunity to visit the Chevron Kingdom. Apart from vacation he also bears the job of a diplomat.

“Haha. I thought I saw an angel! Are you the daughter of a lecturer or a sister of a student?”

“I-I, myself, am a student!”

According to Julius… He ran into the university to escape from some troublesome fans. In the end… He had gotten lost.

He had a handsome look about him and yet also a, somewhat, mischievous behavior.

Julius was only sixteen during that time and he was already a dragner.

Not only he was strong and smart… He was also an attractive boy. The meeting she had with Julius had left a deep impression in her mind.

Julius smile had melted, the lonely genius, Angela’s heart.-

===Part 11===
The feeling that Milgauss gave out is almost the same as Julius’s. Even after he put on the mask and changed his hair style… The manor in which he speaks was still the same as years before.

“H-How… Is this possible…!”

Angela was stunned.

Milgauss had given orders to the girl behind him coldly.

“Do it!”

The girl immediately adjusted the weapon in her left hand’s metal glove- It is a leather whip that the mountains tribes love to use.

“Haa!”

The whip bends according to the girls shout.

The whip swept past Angela with a ‘sss’ and she bend her knees to avoid. Her spectacles were hit and fell to the ground.

“Urgh…”

Even though the girl attacked from the front… Angela’s back was in pain. It seems that the whip easily avoided Angela’s field of vision and attacked from the back.

“B-Both of you… What is the reason you… Come to Willingham Mausoleum-”

At the same time… Angela thought of the only possibility.

The culprit guilty of using the Necromancia, to attack Ansarivan, has yet to be found out.

But, according to the time when Milgauss appeared at Ansarivan, it is reasonable to suspect him.

''-The crucial material of creating the Necromancia are the bones of the dragons.''

If Milgauss is the culprit for releasing the Necromancia, then shouldn’t the Willingham Mausoleum become very dangerous? Since there were many bones buried underground…!

“I beg you… Immediately... Leave this place-”

Angela with a trembling voice said towards the students who were at the lakeside preparing for the closing ceremony.

Needless to say… No one is able to receive her warning-

The girl knocked her with a hatchet and she lost consciousness.

===Part 12===
After making sure that Angela had fainted… Anya turned around and looked at Milgauss.

“About this woman… How are we gonna deal with her? She is still a good scholar; it is a pity for us to kill her…”

Milgauss replied coldly.

“I don’t need anyone like her. Just end her lif- Guuk!”

The next moment, Milgauss looked strange. He was suddenly breathing heavily in pain and struggling while kneeling down on the floor.

“Guu… This damn person! Such determination… Must he interfere with me-!”

Milgauss was muttering something weird.

“M-Milgauss-sama!”

Anya was nervous when she ran to Milgauss. This was the first time she saw Milgauss suffer to this extend. She had never heard before that Milgauss had any ailment disease…

“…Fear not. I’m absolutely alright.”

Milgauss suddenly stood up which made the pain before look like a show. The feeling though is like after a demon being excoriated.

“Err… Milgauss-sama? Are you really alright? Anything wrong with your-“

“I’m very fine. The main point is-“

Milgauss was looking at the floor. Angela was still unconscious. Milgauss who addressed her as ‘Ann’. The sound of it made it seem like he was calling a close friend or a lover…

"Let’s not bother about this woman. This is a Mausoleum for the dragons. The dead body of a human will only dirty this place."

“…Understoood.”

Until Anya replied, even when she was still troubled by it, Milgauss had turned around facing another side.

“Milgauss-sama…?’

Anya was confused.

She doesn’t understand what was happening around Milgauss.

Just before he turned strange, Milgauss wanted to kill Angela… ''But why did he change his mind?''

Milgauss continued to give orders to Anya who was still letting her thoughts wonder.

“I’ll activate the Necromancia in a few moments. Be prepared to head back to Ansarivan.”

“Understood.”

Although she was still worried, about Milgauss's physical condition, Anya still answered immediately.

The time for the battle is about to begin.

===Part 13===
In the evening… Ash had nothing to do.

Under the assistance of the healing magic his injuries were now much better. Although his body still hurts he can now walk on his own. Also… He was now able to wear a patients’ gown. Anyway. It was embarrassing to remain naked.

Having said that. It is the truth that he was still badly injured.

Not only his head but his entire body warped up into a mummy. Apart from going to the washroom he was forbiden from going anywhere let alone outside.

Ash was staring at the scenery outside the window for quite some time.

“Is the closing ceremony starting…?” He wondered.

At the lakeside, as dusk is now ending, the preparations for the campfire are still going on. In about an hours time those logs, that were stacked up high, will be burned.

Rebecca, Silvia, Jessica, Cosette, Max… These friends, who had visited him a few times in the morning, were hardly seen just before and during the sunset. This is also because they were busy preparing for the ceremony.

On the other hand… Lucca should be meeting with Gawain deep in the Norg Forest.

Three hours ago, she purposely came back and told Ash that Gawain was still living. After knowing that Gawain was still breathing Ash breathed a sigh of relieve.

The next thing to do is for Lucca to overcome her fear towards Gawain so the Astral, that connects both of them, may continue to flow.

“Zzz… Zzz…”

Eco was sleeping peacefully with her head on the bed. It is probable that she didn’t get enough sleep while Ash was in a comma.

“I’m entering. Ash!”

At this moment Rebecca’s voice and a knock on the door sounded at the same time. Before Ash could reply she had already walked into the room.

Rebecca, who was in her swimming wear, wore only a thin shirt covering her top which made her look quite sexy.

Rebecca’s swimming wear was red in color. Since the shirt was unbuttoned, her deep cleavage, thin white waist and the bikini lines can totally be seen.

“Rebecca-san…!”

Ash doesn’t know where to look at.

“Do you feel better now?”

After looking at Eco with her gentle eyes, she looked at Ash with a serious expression.

“I’m fine. I can even go to the toilet on my own!”

“Good. Back to the main point… I’m worried about something.”

“What’s it?”

“Angela-sensei hasn't yet returned from the ruins even after I had advised her that she must attend the closing ceremony...”

Ash was stunned. He had heard about Angela going to Willingham Mausoleum on the first evening of the training camp. In another words… Angela didn’t know that Ash was badly injured.

“According to her standard behavior… Angela must be too immersed in her explorations. No?”

Ash gave an arbitrary smile but Rebecca was still troubled by it.

“It is alright if it is just like that… I’m worried that she had accidentally met with a grave robber.”

-Bang! Just as Rebecca was talking.

The door suddenly opened and Lucca entered from outside. Because she was running there was a lot of sweat which was probably the cause for her summer uniform to be wet.

It is rare to see her panicking when she always does things so deliberately.

Eco seems to have been woken by the all the commotion. “Nyuu.“ She made a sleepy sound and she slowly sat up rubbing her eyes while looking around.

“What happened?” Ash, more than concerned, asked.

Lucca answered slowly since she was breathing heavily:

“That… kid… Gawain…!”

===Part 14===
Lucca told the whole story slowly.

''-Gawain is dead?''

Ash was thinking about the worst outcome but the truth was not like what he had expected.

Gawain seemed to hide itself when Lucca was not around.

Lucca had been together with Gawain for the entire morning.

As long as she overcomes her fear of falling from Gawain’s back, Gawain will once again accept her. Thus their Astral will once again be connected and Gawain won’t die.

Lucca was facing Gawain with only this thought- But not only did Gawain not accept Lucca it had also hidden itself.

Rebecca gently hugged Lucca who was crying.

“Gawain will never discard you. It probably felt that it was finally going to die and didn’t want you to suffer anymore by seeing its dying expression. So…”

After hearing Rebecca’s assumption, Ash also agreed with it, but Lucca continued...

“We will look for Gawain immediately! Didn’t we already find out the reason why the astral couldn’t connect? With a little more effort… We will be able to save Gawain! But it had already given up… How can we let this happen!”

Rebecca, still willing to help, nodded in agreement.

“That’s right… I also think so. We need not follow exactly what Gawain wants. The problem is… Where is it hiding right now…”

“T-That…”

Lucca provided information to Rebecca who was thinking deeply. She had rubbed off her tears and set herself with a determined look.

“I think… It must have gone into Willing Mausoleum. That is a grave specially for young dragons… Gawain was still at its juvenile age.”

Rebecca nodded.

“Hmm.. That’s possible. Have you ever before heard the story of ‘The dragon of Willingham’?”

“I had heard of it before. My mom always told me this story when I was younger.”

===Part 15===
-It was a disaster that happened to a young dragon.

When Nuada was young… it still managed to become a maestro. But it could not bear to see its young master suffering in her illness so it cut off its Astral. In the end… Nuada had become very weak.

But Nuada swore never to let its master see its dying moment so it left quietly. Later, although the girl recovered, Nuada had died in Willingham Mausoleum alone after some time.

When Ash heard this story from his mother, when he was still a child, he cried.

Rebecca as if wanted to change the atmosphere in the room declared:

“I’ll never let Gawain meet the same fate as Nuada. So… The closing ceremony will be temporally canceled. I’ll ask all the students to look for Gawain. It will be even better if we could find Angela-sensei at the same time.”

“No! please hold on.”

Ash was against this proposal.

“Let the students enjoy the closing ceremony. I had been unconscious for these few days, so I don’t know what kind of training that they had been through, but everyone must have placed their best effort into it. The point for organizing the closing ceremony… Ain’t it to congratulate those students who completed the training camp?”

“You are right, but, what were you planning? Could it be…”

Ash smiled.

“That’s right. I’ll be responsible for the search. Rest assure, thanks to the healing magic, I’m almost fully recovered.”

This is actually a lie. Every time Ash moved he felt pain in both his organs and joints. Even so… He still wouldn’t give up.

Upon hearing this Eco, who was silent the whole time, became angry.

“Are you kidding! Or you must be an idiot! It is clear that your body is still weak… And yet you want to look for that weak dragon!”

Ash places his hand on Eco’s head to calm her down. Even though she was angry, it was still because that she cares and worries about Ash.

“Please, forgive me, Eco. I couldn’t just kept on watching silently. That feller is not a weak dragon.”

“B-But…”

“If you are worry about me Eco then why don’t you come with me?”

Eco immediately blush like a wildfire.

“W-What… M-Me… I never worried about you!”

Ash was not bothered by Eco, who kept on denying herself while shaking her hands, and bowed down in front of Rebecca.

“I beg you… Rebecca.”

“Tsk… I don’t think I can say no. Or else, the closing ceremony will go on as usual but all the student council’s members will help in the search."

“No, that won’t work out, if Rebecca-san is absent everyone will be suspicious about it. For such a ceremony… I hope that every student will enjoy it to the fullest.”

“But-”

Just when Rebecca wanted to explain… The infirmary room’s door opened with a loud bang.

“If that’s the case… I’ll take over that job of yours. As a dragner; We must help those who are in trouble. - This is the Lautreamont’s family’s rules!”

The person who said this was Silvia.

===Part 16===
The search party that had been decided upon consisted of four members which were Ash, Silvia, Eco and Lucca.

Max and Jessica had agreed to go with them but were stopped by Rebecca. Because if too many of the student council’s members were absent suspicion will still arise among the students.

Lancelot was now giving four people a ride with Silvia in front holding the reins.

''-Behind princess…''

Ash, who was right behind Silvia, was in fear.

Riding on the dragon while wearing the dragsuit designed for the palace and having her hair tied up nicely… Silvia’s charms as a dragner and a princess emerged.

Although Ash had previously rode on Lancelot with Silvia, during the Necromancia’s attack, he was totally immersed in the battle that time. He didn’t noticed Silvia’s appeal as the opposite sex.

“What are you doing? If you don’t hold on tightly… You’ll fall.”

After being scolded by Silvia ash made up his mind and stretched out his arms. When his arms finally surrounded Silvia’s waist… He was surprised that her abdomen was so thin and fragile.

The third person was Eco. She held on to Ash’s waist gently which probably is because that she was worrying about Ash’s injuries.

“You must also hold on tightly.”

When Ash turned his head around, Eco blushed.

“If I use my true strength… Then your body will be squashed!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Eco cared about Ash’s condition, in her own way, which made his happiness run deep down to the bottom of his heart.

The last person to ride the dragon was Lucca. She was not sitting on the saddle but the end of the tail.

“Hey, Lucca. Are you alright… Sitting like that?”

Silvia asked in surprised.

“It’s alright.”

Lucca answered lightly. It seems that she doesn’t like the riding gear.

Lancelot, who was now carrying four people, gracefully flew up and towards the sky.

===Part 17===
Walking from the traing camp’s location, by the lake, to the Willingham Mausoleum would take about an hour. But, using Lancelot, they arrive in an instant.

Ash thought about Gawain while riding on Lancelot’s back...

''-Tsk… Damn that Gawain… Playing hide and seek when it knew it was dying? What is it trying to act cool for… I’ll never allow it to follow Nuada’s footsteps…!''

Not much later. A stretch of high grounds appeared.

“That should be the entrance to Willingham Mausoleum.”

Silvia said while controlling the reins.

Just as Silvia had said… There was an entrance like building at the middle of the hills. The area surrounding the structure was well shrouded by a thin layer of silky mist. There was an alter-like entrance adorned with shining bright-dragon-crystal powered lights that illuminated the surrounding area.

''Did Angela walk into that type of place alone…?'' Ash felt a cold chill just by thinking about it. It doesn’t matter how you look at it; This place is just not suitable for a lady to enter into alone. It's reasonable for Rebecca to become worried. They also mustn’t ignore the possibility she was attacked by some grave robbers…

Just like sweeping away Ash’s thoughts. Silvia shouted:

“Alright, get ready for landing!”

Lancelot gave a brave roar and started the high speed landing maneuver.

===Part 18===
Milgauss was standing at the top of the hill looking at the world below.

Before his eyes was the entrance to Willingham Mausoleum.

Looking at the landscape further out; There is the Norg Forest and Allonnes Lakeside. Not to mention the buildings for the training camp.

The campfire along the Allonnes Lakeside had been lit at and the closing ceremony had officially begun.

On the ground was a coffin like box. Milgauss open the lid and took out a gigantic black sword.

This same gigantic sword is the tool used to summon the Necromancia.

This is the great result of the Empires’ proud mechanical engineering and the development of the dragons. - The remnant of the Magic Techniques. <ref>魔導工学 Magic based mechanics</ref>

After Milgauss had returned to his country… He had improvised this device.

This gigantic sword, that once looked like a piece of art work, had now become more dangerous and mechanized.

The bright dragon crystals on the hilt had increased tremendously. There are a total of nine big crystals and more than twenty smaller ones. If it was to be for sale it could surely fetch large amount of money. But in Milgauss eyes… The expensive crystals were but tools.

Milgauss easily lifted the gigantic sword and stabbed it deep into the ground. This was to send it's magic into the inner part of the mausoleum.

The dragon jaw shaped sword made a deep heavy sound and sunk into the rocks.

“This looks like a tombstone.”

Just when Milgauss was mumbling… A white shape swept passed his eyes. A flying object, that he thought to be a dragon, was getting nearer at a rapid pace.

As it flew over he spied the shadow which looked exactly like Lancelot's. Milgauss widened his eyes, that were under the mask, and looked at the evening sky.

“Hmph… The princess. On patrol?”

Milgauss immediately hid behind the rocks. Even though he thought that the sky was dark enough to hide him from the eyes of the rider he must never underestimate the eyes of a dragon.

Luckily, Lancelot had quickly begun its landing. It seems that they were heading for the mausoleum’s entrance. In a few moments he lost sight of Lancelot.

“Let’s begin.” Exiting from the cover of the rocks.

Milgauss grabbed the hilt of the gigantic sword and started to sing out the spell.

''“Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Show yourself by the crystals of the Magic Techniques. The spirits of the young dragons now be revived.”''

In a moments time… The bright-dragon-crystals on the hilt began to shine brightly.

===Part 19===
“A-Angela-sensei… Came to this cave?”

Silvia, who just alighted from Lancelot, was shocked after she examined at Willingham’s Mausoleum’s entrance.

She didn’t expect the mausoleum to be this scary.

It was fine while the sun was still bright but the now darkening sky made it seem a lot scarier.

The mist surrounding the entrance made it look like the doors to hell. Although there were bright-dragon-crystal powered lights around the entrance… They still didn’t ease her fear.

“Gawain…”

Ash placed his hand on Lucca’s head because of her worried looks.

“Rest assured. We will definitely find Gawain.”

“Nnn…” Lucca softly answered.

At the same time… A bolt struck out deep into the evening sky followed by the roaring sound of thunder.

“Kyaa!”

The first person to scream was Silvia.

Ash made a sympathetic smile. Although, under Veronica’s training, she had become stronger, she was still a coward.

But this mildly amusing situation was immediately interrupted by Eco.

“…Just like that time.”

Eco was looking at the sky with her sharp eyes.

Lancelot had also assumed it's alert posture and was growling with a "Grrrrrr…."

In the blink of an eye… Dark clouds had almost entirely filled the sky.

“Are you saying about the time when the Necromancia attacks…?”

Eco nodded while answering seriously.

“That’s right. This bad feeling… I can't be wrong about it!”

At this time the earth started and kept on shaking.

Ash nearly fell because of the strong continuous shaking. He already had a hard time to keeping balanced.

“Kyaa!”

But the other girl that fell in his direction had dragged him down together with her.

The girl who fell into his chest was Eco. Silvia, who already wouldn’t let go of his right arm, and also Lucca was tightly clinging onto his left arm. Even under this type of situation… Ash couldn’t enjoy it not one bit.

“Urgh-!”

His whole body was in pain. The rest had forgotten that Ash was a serious patient that had been advised by the doctor to have a sufficient amount of rest.

“S-Sorry! Are you alright?”

“S…orry!”

“It’s all because of me…”

Silvia, Lucca and Eco immediately apologized.

“Don’t worry… I’m alright.”

Ash didn’t want the others to worry about him and squeeze out a smile. But, his smile doesn’t look natural and he prayed that the dark sky can provide some cover for him.

After the earthquake stopped… Ash stood up.

“Fhuss…”

A sound as if it was laughing at Ash stubbornness was heard.

“-!”

One by one… A scary sight appeared from the dark corner of the mausoleum. They were not humans. Although they looked like dragons, they didn’t have the holy feelings that the dragons emit.

“Necromancia!”

At the same time that Eco warned the others… Something rushed out from the mausoleum.

Something that was bigger than a horse but too small compared to a dragon. Alas, there wasn't only just one, there were a bunch of them.

There were around five of them and each of them looked like a young Asia. Their bodies were black and have mad eyes, sharp teeth and a strong rotten smell.

“A young dragon sized… Necromancia?”

Just as Ash was speaking his thoughts… The leader of the Necromancias attacked. After its mouth opened, shining rays could be seen- ''Don!'' And a ball of flames came flying along the ground.

Lancelot made a scary roar and activated its defensive magic’s shield and immediately the breath attack was nullified.

But there is no time to thank Lancelot.

The group had already extended their many deep red colored tentacles now and they were getting nearer.

Silvia became the first victim.

“Kyaa!”

“Princess!”

Although Ash immediately stretched out his hand, he still missed. The slimy and sticky tentacles wrapped around Silvia’s thin body and hoisted her up into the air.
[[Image:SnRK V03 225.jpg|thumb|The slimy and sticky tentacles wrapped around Silvia’s thin body and hoisted her up into the air.]]

“I-Insolent fools! How dare you touch the Royal Knight’s family’s Princess...!”

Too bad they were not someone that could be communicated with language.

Although Silvia struggled… The more she struggle the harder the tentacles grip became. In very little time more than half of her dragsuit was torn off and the buttons had come loose.

“S-Stop! Stop this insolent behavior...! Ahh... Stoooop!”

Silvia’s scream could be heard all over.

“Eco. Hand me the Ark quick!”

Eco angrily rejected Ash’s request.

“No way! You are still a patient! The Ark will burden your body-”

“Is this a time to worry about those things! Princess is in danger right now!”

“B-But...”

Compared to Eco, who stood still, Lancelot had started to make his move.

To save its master, it had used the red flaming dragon breath.

''-Don!''

That was a true breath and wasn't comparable to flames created by an Oracle. The unimaginable destructive force had turned the five Necromancia blocking the entrance into fire balls.

“Grrrroooorrrr!”

The five Necromancias who were on fire roared in agony and changed their target to Ash and the rest. But Lancelot gave a final flaming breath which further turned the Necromancia into ashes.

Although they were young dragons there were no difference from the hardiness of a regular Necromancia. As the tentacles snapped, Silvia was caught by Lancelot as she was falling.

“Huff... Puff... Thank you! Lancelot.”

Ash gave a sigh of relieve when he saw Silvia was safe. But he immediately heard Lucca screaming.

“That...!”

Lucca was standing by the cliff and was looking at the direction to the lakeside. No, it was actually towards Norg Forest.

“Anything?”

“The forest... Was polluted...”

Lucca, as an Eckbald, was sensitive to the changes in the forest.

Ash looked towards the direction she was looking at and he was dumbstruck.

''-Dodododododo....''

The forest was shaking and the feeling was like a group of Asia’s running. The wild birds and small animals were shocked and their sound could be heard one after another.

Judging from Lucca’s sense of ‘Polluted…’ The Asia type Necromancia could be on the move in the forest.

It seems that apart from the main door… There were other options that the Necromancias came out from.

“Ash, quickly, look at the lakeside!”

Silvia was shouting on Lancelot’s back while pointing to the lakeside.

“Could it be that... Those were also Necromancia?”

Ash clenched his trembling fist. The black shapes were moving around the dark lake. Thanks to the campfire at the lakeside he can somehow make out their shadows.

Those must be the Hydra type Necromancia. The total amount should be around twenty... No, it seems that, it was around thirty. They were moving towards the campfire by the lakeside.

“They are also at the sky!”

This time it was Eco who was pointing at the sky. A group of Strada type Necromancia, while making some weird type of bird noises, were circling around the sky. They seemed to ignore Ash and the rest and were heading towards the campsite...

“So I see... Their target is to attack the training camp!”

Ash angrily clenched his fists on both hands.

“Damn... Even when the students there were top students, the only ones who had experience in dealing with Necromancia were Max and Rebecca. Are they going to be alright?"

“Ash, now is not the time to worry about the others. We can only trust the president to protect the training camp.”

Silvia’s calm voice dragged Ash back to reality.

She focused her sight onto the entrance of the mausoleum.

“That’s...!”

Ash turned speechless.

A second batch of Asia type Necromancia had rushed out and there were six of them this time.

“Grrrr...”

Lancelot with a growl and a breath attack exploded over them turning three of the leading Necromancia into ashes.

At this moment, the deep red colored tentacles rushed forward. However. Lancelot was not intimidated by them. It stood up, with its hind legs supporting its body, and slashed the Necromancia with its hammer like front legs. The sharp claws made a screeching sound and the tentacles were torn up like knives slicing rubber bands.

The scene could only be described as 'dead bodies everywhere.'

In only a few minutes the second batch of Asia type Necromancia were totally wiped out.

“S-Strong...!”

Lancelot’s heroic fight amazed Ash while Silvia’s dragon controlling skill had also improved significantly.

Silvia looked down towards the rest of the gang with a skillful look.

“Ride on Lancelot! Quickly, we are going into the mausoleum.”

===Part 20===
[[Image:SnRK V03 006-007.jpg|thumb|''... Rebecca is just too great. Jessica, who led the group of Hydras, was muttering while looking at Cú Chulainn who was flying above in the night sky.'']]
“All of you here had gone through the five days Selective Training Camp! Your skills have improved significantly! You must have faith in yourself! Your skills are far better than what you had imagined!”

Under Rebecca’s command the students had mounted their pals.

The Stradas were flying, the Asias were on their way to Norg Forest and the Hydras gathered at Allonnes Lake. Their strategy––An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

“... Rebecca is just too great.”

Jessica, who led the group of Hydras, was muttering while looking at Cú Chulainn who was flying above in the night sky.

===Part 21===
Rebecca was standing at the high end of Cú Chulainn’s neck. She was already in her Ark. The enormous amount of magic was surrounding her entire body. Max was acting as her second in command riding behind her on Arianrhod.

Not long before… The students were happily enjoying the cozzy atmosphere around the closing ceremony’s campfire.

But the Necromancias attacking from three directions, which were land, water and air, had drastically changed the mood. Just like heaven and hell the students were all in a panic, but thanks to Rebecca the tables had turned. Just a simple talk from Rebecca had given them the courage to fight.

Now, not only were the students not in any fear, they even trembled in excitement.

A huge amount of Necromancias were approaching.

There was only about a hundred meters in between them.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Rebecca naturally led the attack.

“Gáe Bolg!”

A bright light appeared after the spell had ended and a long spear appeared. Gáe Bolg’s light pierced through the dark sky followed by an explosion. One by one the Strada type Necromancia fell to the ground.

“Attack!”

Rebecca commanded like a general.

''“Oooooo!”''

Upon receiving the order… All the students attacked at the same time.

===Part 22===
Dim white lights were emitted from Lancelot’s horn.

This was a basic magic for the dragons. Thus, Ash and the rest didn’t have to rely on the bright-dragon-crystal torch while traversing the cave. Lancelot was walking forward silently and steadily through the cave. Its usual earth shaking footsteps almost couldn't be felt.

This had lessened the amount of burden that Ash’s, medically weak, body had to endure.

“Thank you. Princess.”

Silvia was surprised that Ash spoke behind her ears and her neck suddenly gave a jerk.

Because her hair was tied up with a red ribbon her white neck was exposed.

“Why are you acting with such ambiguity! I had done nothing that deserves your thanks!”

“You were worried about me and purposely asked Lancelot to slow down. Right? So…”

“I-I had never thought that far! How can we move quickly in this narrow space!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Silvia was shy about it. For such a great dragon like Lancelot… To move quickly in such a narrow space is but child’s play.

“-Careful!”

Silvia suddenly shouted.

“Ksharrrr!”

Three Strada type Necromancias attacked from the front. They looked more like bats than dragons.

Even though they were once noble dragons in their own time, after they became Necromancia, they were no different from any undistinguished animal.

Ash tensed. The next second...

“Grooooo….!”

Lancelot gave an angry roar… Along the path, where the brilliant dragon stepped passed, there were only ashes left behind.

“Such excellence.”

Upon hearing Ash’s murmur… Silvia proudly lifted her chest.

“Hmph… During your time spent recovering… I had completed every single course in the Selective Training Camp. The days when I did battle stimulations with the president was every day… I felt like crying when I said that."

What Silvia said felt like a sad tone hidden in it. She seemed to experience something terrible. Ash who had only experienced the first day’s sea water bath was regretting. <!—It should be lake, but sea was written in the original text. Or I could be a pun because lake is Mizuumi and Sea is Umi.-->

But… The main reason Silvia became strong was mainly because of Princess Veronica’s encouragement.

If Veronica hadn’t visited Ansarivan last week… Silvia may not have turned over a new leaf.

“Back to the topic. Why haven’t we seen Angela-sensei yet?... I'm hoping she wasn’t attacked by the Necromancia.”

Silvia sighed while looking at the mausoleum’s map.

“We also haven’t found Gawain yet… Lucca. Have you felt anything?”

“I can’t… Because the Astral was not connected… My ‘Seikoku’ was not responding."

Sinca Lucca couldn’t feel anything; They could only ransack the entire cave. Although it will be a tiresome job, just by only imagining it, it was still an emergency.

“Another thing… Eco. There is something that I must tell you first hand.”

Ash was looking at Eco through his shoulders.

“Anything?”

Eco who was clinging tightly at Ash’s back lifted her head while feeling annoyed.

“The next time I ask you to hand me the Ark… Please do so immediately. Any doubt at that moment could make you regret for your whole life.”

“Wha…!”

Eco immediately explode. She kept on hitting Ash with her fist.

“I won’t allow you to order me! Be careful or I’ll trample you!”

Although the way she was hitting was more like emotionally pouting… The strength that she put in still made him suffer.

“I-It hurts! S-Stop hitting me!”

“Have you forgotten that you are still a patient! Even though those were temporally made mimic-Arks they still burden your body!”

Although she said it angrily… She was still concerned about Ash. The way she thinks made Ash happy but the situation right now was an emergency and maybe the mastermind was still somewhere in this mausoleum.

“If not… Could you create an Ark that doesn’t cause much burden to the body?”

“What did you say?”

“Please, I believed that you are able to make an Ark that was suitable for my current situation.”

“H-How… Could you speak with such confidence!”

“Do you even need to ask? Because Eco is my excellent pal!”

“…!”

It was possible that she was moved by Ash… Eco was speechless and blushed.

“Alright… B-But, during the time I’m in the dragon workshop, my body…”

Ash immediately knew what she was going to say.

Only a spirit can enter the dragon workshop and the true body will be left in this world.

When the spirit left the body the empty shell will be defenseless.

“Worry not. I’ll protect your body.”

Ash loosened his grip on Silvia’s waist and carefully switched places with Eco while trying not to fall off from Lancelot.

“Ash…?”

Eco was dumbstruck and turned around to look at Ash.

Ash then hugged Eco’s waist tightly.

“Wha-W-Wha…!”

Eco’s shoulders twisted for one moment and her body had become log like.

Her ears hidden in her hairs were red.

As if hot air is going to burst out anytime.

“I-If you don’t hold on to me tightly… You better watch out!” Eco said angrily

After that she relaxed and rested her back up against Ash’s chest. He could smell the fragrance of her shampoo.

The next moment Eco’s body went limp and was like a puppet whose strings had snapped. She loses her strength and lays her head on Ash’s right shoulder.

Ash had felt that her spirit had left her body.

“Our hopes are on you… Eco.”

Ash murmur was like praying as he held on tightly to Eco’s limp body.

===Part 23===
“Huh?”

Silvia immediately stopped Lancelot when they arrived at a large cavern.

It doesn’t look like a place that has Necromancias.

Lancelot increased the light intensity of its horns to brighten the extra space.

Silvia was holding the reins with her right hand and was checking the map with her left.

“According to this map… This should be the centre of the mausoleum.”

“Centre...”

Ash was holding on to Eco who was still unconscious tightly while looking around.

Silvia turned back and was secretly looking at Ash’s face.

“...”

Just to make a new Ark for Ash, Eco had went to the dragon workshop. Ash kept on holding to her petite body tightly for some time.

Of course the reason Ash did so was to prevent Eco from falling off from Lancelot... But Silvia had been jumpy since and couldn’t remain completely calm.

''-Damn, what am I getting nervous about!''

Silvia had reaffirmed herself and was looking around her surrounding carefully.

The size of the space was about the size of the academy’s lecture hall. The cavern ceiling was extremely high estimated at about fifteen meters. There were a lot of winged-cross shaped tombstones all around on the floor.

All the tombstones were at least five meters in height. The winged cross in the middle was far bigger than the rest. Its height almost touched the stone ceiling. Is there a powerful dragon buried there?

Too bad they still haven’t found Angela and Gawain. Logically speaking, this large empty space, located in the middle of the entire mausoleum, should be the place with the highest probability of finding them...

After Silvia gave a long sigh Ash said to her:

“Princess. Look up at the ceiling.”

“-Huh?”

Silvia’s eyes widened. There was a volcano like hole in the middle of the ceiling and the night sky could be seen from within. Before they had entered the mausoleum… Eco had described this dark sky as a ‘bad feeling’.

On a clear night there would have been moonlight shining through that hole to create a dreamy situation.

“Grrrrr...”

Lancelot suddenly lifted its neck and gave a warning growl.

It was staring intensely at the hole above.

“What’s it. Lancelot?”

Just when Silvia asked in surprised-

“We meet again. Shounen.” <ref>Shounen-Teenage boy.</ref>

A guy’s voice could be heard from above. A tall and thin person stood at the edge of the hole.

“You’re... Milgauss!”

Ash's sudden gasp could even be felt by Silvia.

Lancelot maneuvered so that his horn's light illuminated the scene above.

A lone guy wearing a mask appeared pale white in color under the light. Silvia had also read the report book and immediately knew who he was.

“The ruffian who was called Milgauss! Who knew that I would meet you here! I, under the name of Lautreamont’s Royal Knight’s family, will punish you in the name of god!”

Even while facing Silvia, who was excited and indignant, Milgauss only replied with a laugh.

“Hmph... Come on… Even Veronica Lautreamont, who was a top warrior, wasn't even chosen to be a breeder... And yet a coward like you was chosen.”

“What... Did you say?”

The way Milgauss speaks, as if he knew a lot of her background in formations, made Silvia felt uneasy.

“Are you alright. Princess?”

Ash asked from behind.

“N-No... Nothing.”

Silvia’s mind was already in a mess even when she said so.

''-What is this feeling? That guy called Milgauss... Even though this is the first time I met him, but, he felt familiar. Why would I feel this way?''

“Princess? You... Are crying?”

“Huh!?”

Ash’s words woke her up.

She had only just found out that her tears already started falling.

“This... Why would I...?”

Even Silvia didn’t know why she cried. But, if she even glances at Milgaus, her heart will tighten.

Milgauss suddenly gave a smile.

A smile of a father who cares about his child. A peaceful and caring smile.

“You had grown… Sylvie.”

“Wha-!”

Silvia felt a cold chill.

No matter how wide is the world… The only ones who would call her by her pet name will be family members. Not only that… His suddenly gentle voice had caused her to recall forgotten memories.

''-Onii-sama! Julius onii-sama!''

''-Haha, Silvia, you pampered child.''

''-It’s because... Onii-sama kept on talking to Glenn-dono and had forgotten about me!''

Her childhood memories resurfaced in her mind.

How is this possible.

-‘Dragon Slayer’.

Brother Julius had committed such a serious offense and had been punished. Silvia was only five during that time.

In Lautreamont Knight Country… Killing a dragon is the utmost offense. Even if it was the prince of the Knight’s royal family… He will still be punished. To make it worse… The dragon that Julius killed was his pal… Maestro Mordred.

Julius was already dead.

But... Milgauss had the same feel as Julius with every movement he made.

At this moment Lancelot had again given a warning growl. As if it was trying to tell Silvia to raise her guard.

“Could it be...!”

Silvia had also felt that something was very wrong.

The ground was slightly shaking.

''-Something was hidden in the ground!''

“Kuku... Up to what extent Lancelot can fight is something worth seeing. Or is it that… The guy over there will come out with some weird tactics?”

“Urgh...”

Ash kept silent.

Eco had remained silent and had yet to wake up. Silvia also couldn’t predict the amount of time needed for Eco to create a new Ark.

Milgauss, as if he saw through Ash’s Achilles heel, gave an expression of ridicule.

“But, judging by Avalon’s Princess behavior, I believe that you won’t be able to come up with anything unusual. No?”

“Avalon’s Princess? Why would you also know about-” Ash was obviously shaken.

''Avalon- This word was suspected to originate from the ancient language.'' Silvia doesn’t know what that means. ''Anyway… what’s this about a princess?''

''-No... This isn't the time to worry about those things...''

Silvia cleared her mind and focused on the current situation.

“Let me tell you, the dragons buried in this mausoleum were but young dragons! Even after they became Necromancias… They are still no match for my Lancelot!”

Silvia declared but Milgauss was not even bothered by it.

“Is it so? I had sent most of them to the training campsite. Those Necromancias that you had beaten were small fries. Also… The dragons buried here were Maestros in their past life.”

As if to answer Milgauss's words… The ground split into two. The enormously loud sound was echoing around the cave while the large tombstone followed it by falling to the ground.

A huge object could be seen appearing from beneath.

“Roarrrrr...!”

A roar, as if it had arisen from hell, followed and their fight with Lancelot had started.

Strong wing. Thick jaws and sharps horns…

Apart from their dark skin… They have the looks of a maestro.

“Kuku... Let me tell you! Its name is Nuada!”

Upon hearing this… Silvia was stunned.

“A tragedy that every citizen of the Knight Country knew. You should had heard about it before, right? It is the dragon who loves its master and chose to commit suicide-”

===Part 24===
“Have you gotten everything that I had said, Navi?”

Eco was having a conversation in the dragon workshop.

Navi, as usual, was wearing an evening dress while sitting on an antique chair.

“The Ark that suits his current condition most…? Hehe. This is interesting.”

Her mature version of Eco’s look was as beautiful as usual. Perhaps it was because of this… Eco hated this woman very much. Even after saying that to herself… Right now she must focus on the main situation.

“I don’t have much time. Can you replace my job for the restructuring process?”

“Ara. Why do you even need my help?”

Navi impishly smiled.

“Do I even have a choice! Even though I don’t like it... You are still more knowledgeable than me... And I expect that you could come out with a better result compared to me."

“Your judgment is correct. We are like two faces on a coin. If you are the person who lives in the outer world then I am the person who lives in the inner world. Of course I will help you.”

“So you have agreed to help me?”

“As long as you promise me one thing.”

“Promise? What do you want me to do?”

“You must promise me that, one day, you will present an Ark to Ash Blake. It must not be a mimic but a top rate piece of work that you had created.”

“W-What are you talking about! How could I agree to this!”

“Ara. Have you already given up before you even challenged it?”

“B-Because... To present the Ark to him also means…”

Navi smiled.

“That’s right. You are going to give him your everything.”

“How could I…”

Eco was speechless. Her whole body was hot as if it was burning. To give her everything to Ash, just by thinking about it, Eco was already very embarrassed about it.

“Are you willing to agree to my condition? Or not?”

“Urgh...”

Navi’s provocation made her mad but… It takes time to do the review. Since there were more than a thousand Ark blueprints left by her ancestral legacy…

To do the review is to search amongst all the various parts, or component blueprints, and identify those that suit Ash the most.

She will be fine, if just that were so, but… There was this ‘not to burden Ash’s body’ rule this time.

This is much more difficult than the ‘ice element’ that Ask asked for during the church terrorist incident.

Strictly speaking. Eco didn’t even know if there was even one Ark that doesn’t overly burden the person wearing it. So this problem had nothing to do with time and she can only rely on Navi’s knowledge.

“...Alright. I promise.”

After Eco had made her mental preparations… Navi smiled and the place suddenly was filled with soothing bright lights.

At the same time, there were many blueprints moving about Navi’s field of view. Those were the various Ark designs that the dragons, over the ages, left behind.

Navi, with her glossy and watery lips, begins to sing out the name of each part of the new Ark-

''“Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes, Espolón.”''

Eco was speechless.

A few thousands of those blueprints were spinning around on Navi’s head. Those that were determined as unnecessary disappear immediately and whats left over are the ones that are important.

“W-What a fast searching speed...” Eco was stunned…

At that moment all the blueprints, that were flying around Navi’s head, vanished.

The lights that filled the dragon workshop had also disappeared. Navi slowly stood up from the chair and walked towards Eco.

“W-What is it...?’

Navi was too beautiful to look at and she unconsciously took a step backwards. Navi playfully smiled and placed her palm on Eco’s head.

“This is...!”

Eco felt a cold chill. An enormous amount of information entered her brain from Navi’s palm. But half way through the process… It was interrupted.

“W-Why?”

“...He was facing great danger.”

Navi was looking at the three dimension projected screen in mid-air with a serious expression.

“Then be quick!” Eco cried.

“It seems that we must act quickly.”

Navi again placed her palm on Eco’s head and retransferred the information.

===Part 25===
“Is it really Nuada…!”

Ash shouted but he was immediately back to his calm self.

That's right! The problem is not whether it is Nuada or not. The main point is; This Necromancia is a Maestro.

Also, the Necromancia revived from the ground was not only Nuada alone. The tombstones around also fell to the ground one by one. A total of nine Asia type Necromancia crawled out from the ground.

“Princess. It is better that we retreat for the time being-”

After giving a glance at the passage behind, Ash calmly made the suggestion.

The escape path was not yet blocked by the enemies. To fight in this open space, the enemies will surely attack from all directions. It will be a tough battle even though Lancelot is strong.

But if they retreat to the narrow passage, the enemies will be forced to come at them in a line. They may have a chance in winning like this.

“No!” Silvia stubbornly disagreed with retreat.

She was so angry that her hands, while holding the reins, were trembling.

“Milgauss… Do you know what you had done! You… You've stained Nuada’s spirit, and that you should never have done!”

“P-Princess…?”

Ash was at a loss when he looked at Silvia being angry.

Silvia had obviously believed what Milgauss had said. She probably had the experience of crying after hearing Nuada’s story in her childhood.

At this moment Lucca, who had remained silent the whole time, cried out.

“I also… Will never forgive that person!”

It is easy to understand how she felt. Because Gawain had followed in Nuada’s footsteps and had disappeared for Lucca's sake. Her emotional reaction was probably founded on this.

Ash was worried about the current situation.

“Young dragon Nuada! I swear, in the name of the Lautreamont Royal Knight's Family, I will defeat you! This is the only thing that I can do for you!”

In reply, to Silvia’s sworn oath, Lancelot roared with a high pitch and immediately attacked Nuada. It stood on its hind legs and piled on attacks with its front. Upon seeing this Nuada also stood up and defended with its front legs.

The two ferocious dragon began a battle between titans.

All of a sudden… Nuada opened its lower jaw and blew out some black gas. It was almost a zero range, point blank, attack…

“Urgh…!”

Ash felt something was wrong and he hugged Eco tightly to protect her. He was angry at his useless self who couldn’t do anything.

Lancelot also remained strong. Just before Nuada’s breath attack exploded it triggered its own defensive magic.

-The sound of explosions kept shaking their ears.

The explosions were reflected back to Nuada, who was too near the defensive magic, and immediately more explosions were heard. Lancelot's defensive magic was extremely sturdy and Ash only felt a slight vibration.

“Great…!”

Right until now… Ash had kept his eyes open. Half of Nuada’s head had disappeared and its grey colored brain could be seen. Even though it seems to be defeated it is still a Necromancia. The organs that were destroyed were immediately regenerated and soon it was back to its original state.

Lancelot’s heroic roar and Nuada’s creepy scream shook the air around them.

Just when the two resumed fighting, with all their strength, there was a groan coming from Ash’s back.

“Eek… Stop!”

“Lucca?”

Lucca, who was sitting on Lancelot’s tail, was dragged off by another Asia type Necromancia. Its tentacles can be seen clinging to Lucca’s body.

Lucca who was hanging upside down was struggling both in pain and tears.

“D-Don’t… Touch anyplace weird…!”

Just like tempting ants with sugar a large group of Asia type Necromancias were approaching Lucca. Their tentacles were already tearing off Lucca’s dragsuit.

The iron made gloves and knee guards was forcefully pulled off and fell to the ground. The leather belt was tore into pieces and even her skirt was torn off.

“Damn…!”

The moment Ash shouted, taking advantage of Ash focusing his attention on Lucca, a tentacle attacked. It had already surrounded Eco’s waist and was so strong that Ash quickly lost-out to it in terms of strength.

“Eco…!!”

Just like Lucca, Eco was now hanging in mid-air. Eco had lost consciousness earlier and couldn’t even struggle like Lucca.

Silvia was having trouble just by controlling Lancelot. She didn’t have the time to worry about the danger that Eco and Lucca were facing.

Ash clenched his teeth and leaped off Lancelot’s back. Even though he knew this was like committing suicide… He still couldn’t control this sudden impulse.

“Let your dirty paws go!…”

Ash picked up a stone and threw at the Asia type Necromancia.

But throwing stones at dragon is like throwing stones at the moon. It easily bounced off from the black skin.

“Urgh…”

To make it worse… Ash’s body was in pain.

Even though he was not attacked his body was still giving him warnings.

“R-Right now out of all times…!”

After Ash cursed, he kneeled on one side of his knees.

He was sweating cold sweat.

His head, organs and joints were shrieking in tremendous agony. He felt like rolling up and screaming in pain. ''But, I mustn't… I mustn’t be defeated in a place like this-!''

Ash, who's eyes filled with sweat, saw Eco being dragged away right in front of him.

“Ecoooooo!”

Ash screams in desperation.

At that moment… Eco, who was nearly sucked into the Necromancia’s body, opened her eyes.

“W-What? What's this situation!”

After she saw Ash was on the ground in a ball like posture, Eco looked around at her surrounding.

“Eco! Give me the Ark!”

“Hmph! Without me… You are useless!”

Eco can be seen smiling happily-

And she only shouted the only word of that long spell:

''“Espolón!”''

===Part 26===
Milgauss, who was standing at the top of the hill watching the fight, had seen it all.

The cave was filled with white lights.

At that moment, the Holy Ark emerged in the middle of the lights and was on Ash’s body. The new Ark is a striking white colored armour with red stripes. A red striped white Ark!

Ash is now an Ark-Dragner.

This armour was stronger than what Milgauss saw at Ansarivan. This increases his interest in it.

The areas in which it became stronger were in defense and not offense.

“Hmph. Using the old remains and combining them into an emergency armour? Wouldn’t expect less from the Avalon’s Princess…”

''Anya’s report had stated that Ash suffered serious injuries. This armour should be the best fit for him.''

“Back to the topic…”

Milgauss was surprised that Eco completed the spell with only a word. Perhaps she had finished the rest in the dragon workshop.

Because Eco wanted to create the Ark at the same time she woke up so she had finished most of the spell before she came back.

If that’s not the case… Eco would be eaten by the Necromancia before she can even manage to finish naming all the parts of the Ark. Milgauss wanted to praise this enemy.

“As I thought… Is it fate that we have to continue the fight from the past generations? Kuku… There is nothing bad about it and yet also nothing good about it.”

Milgauss frightfully laughs.

He was fully immersed in his laughter… A laughter that came out from the very depths of his throat.

===Part 27===
The moment he donned the Ark… Ash stood up straight.

The unbearable pain had disappeared and it felt like he had grown wings.

The thickness of the Ark felt thicker than the first two Arks and it looked more like a ball overall. He felt safe just by wearing it.

But now is not the time to enjoy that safe feeling.

Ash locked on to the Necromancia in front of him and jumped towards it.

He first punched the Necromancia that had captured Eco with his Manoplas.

Next… He kicked the monster that captured Lucca with his Escarpes.

The massive amount of magic, contained in the red striped white Ark, exploded and the two dragons crumbled into ash and effectively disappeared..

“Ouch-!”

Ash groaned.

Even though the Ark had the effect of absorbing most of the repulsive force. It's still reckless for him to engage in hand to hand combat with Necromancia.

The pain in his bones made him struggle. It also seems that the Ark couldn’t totally suppress his pain. But he mustn’t back down in this situation.

“Kyaaaa!”

The moment the tentacles disappeared… Eco and Lucca fell from mid-air.

Ash immediately slide towards the bottom of the two. He had managed to secure both of them right before they impacted on the ground… The entire process spanned less than two seconds.

“Are both of you alright?”

Ash helped them to stand up. Lucca instantly nodded her head in reply but Eco on the other hand was quite verbally angry...

“What the hell is wrong with you! That Ark only strengthens the ‘defense’! It is not for you to use it for punching and kicking!”

“S-Sorry...”

Ash initially was intimidated by Eco and apologized. But without delay he changed his mind:

“Now is not the time to worry about those things. No? Of course I’m trying to save you!”

But the current situation doesn’t allow Ash to explain anymore than that.

“…Here it comes.”

Ash was dragged back into reality by Lucca’s warning and immediately put up a fighting posture.

The fight between Lancelot and Nuada was still in a stalemate. On the other hand… The remaining seven Asia type Necromancias were still trying to attack the trio. The stench of the rotting smell had suddenly became stronger.

Eco angrily ordered.

“This Ark was not made so you can fool around with it! Use the Ark Weapon immediately!”

“Understood!”

Ash focused his mind and attention to the Ark.

The information regarding the Ark Weapon, that came together with the Ark, was sent into his mind.

After receiving that information Ash smiled.

“Appear… The invincible magic shield!”

There was a flash followed together with the spell.

The space in front of Ash started to bend and there was a crack. The, as yet unknown, Ark Weapon appeared slowly from the crack.

''“Aegis!”'' <ref>A shield from the Greek mythology.</ref>

The same time Ash shouted its name… The Aegis shields appeared.

Aegis’s outside front looked like a dragon’s head. There were all together five units that made up this shield. All of the five units were flying around under Ash’s command. When they had surrounded the Asia type Necromancias… The shields then projected colorful lights.

These units were not normal shields. They all have the characteristics of a magic cannon.

The continuous lights that were attacking the Asia type Necromancias were like spider webs.

Not only that… There were some unexpected weird changes on the Necromancia that were directly struck by the lights. In a very short time, they had become stones .

Aegis was not releasing the usual degree of attacking type magic.

That was a high level magic that, upon coming into contact with the light, turned living things into stone . Even though it is from one of the dangerous areas of magic, named in the list of banned spells by the Knight Country, now is not the time to act like a good model citizen.

In just a few seconds time all seven Necromancias had turned into stones. Ash breathed a sigh relief and withdrew Aegis’s magic.

“Thank you, Eco.”

“N-Nothing… And I’m not even doing this for you.”

Eco turned her face aside but her face was definitely blushing. Ash gave a dry smile but now is still not the time to lower their guard.

Anyway... Silvia was piloting Lancelot with all her skill as they fought Nuada one on one. It was a situation where both of their front legs were interlocked somewhat like in a wrestling match. For attacks each of them use magic and tail swipes for advantage.

“Princess! I’ll be there to help you in a short moment!”

Ash who was prepared to help had met a blank wall.

“I don’t need any help! Go and capture Milgauss! Lancelot and I will calm down Nuada’s spirit.”

Silvia’s talk made Ash speechless.

Silvia was really angry. Even so… she still hasn’t lost her cool. She had sworn to defeat Nuada in the name of the Royal Knight’s Family and perhaps she truly thought that this is her mission.

“Roger that! Princess I’ll leave it in your hands!”

After Ash shouted back to Silvia he started running.

Right in front of him was Nuada’s tombstone. The tip of the slanting winged cross was pointing at the hole of the ceiling. Milgauss was still standing at the side of the hole looking down.

Ash jumped towards the sky along the side of the winged cross and stepped on the middle of it, gave himself a hop, landing on the tip of the wing and continued to jump up from there. With the aid of the Ark… Ash accomplished a jump that a normal human can’t do.

His body passed up and through the hole of the ceiling.

The misty air of the inner part of the cave had suddenly become replaced by the fresh and cool nighttime air.

However… The air is very cold and it doesn’t seem like summer anymore.

At the top of the nearby hills there are many stubs of bare rock.

Luckily, although the surroundings are dark, the Ark produces a dim light. Also, since he had been in the dark cave for a long time, his eyes are already used to the darkness.

“Milgauss!”

Ash started a fight with Milgauss. Although Eco was mad about it he still chose to use hand to hand combat which is the easiest.

He remembered the time when he met Milgauss for the first time in the forest.

Ash didn’t even have the ability to fight back during that time. Because, before he managed to land a hit on Milgauss, Ash was ambushed by Milgauss underling. He was nearly killed by that girl.

But the situation right now is different. Ash was protected by Eco’s Ark and he had decided to KO his opponent in one hit.

But-

With only his left hand Milgauss had blocked Ash’s right punch. He had focused all his strength in that punch too.

“How is this possible…?”

“Hmph. Is the strength on an Ark-Dragner just like this?”

“Urgh…”

He can’t move his right hand at all. It is similar to being clenched by a pair of pliers.

“This proves that you are just a fake.”

Milgauss tone was as cold as iron.

There was a gigantic sword in his right hand.

“Wha…!”

Ash widened his eyes in disbelief. It is as if the sword was made out of darkness. The large bright-dragon-crystals mounted on the hilt definitely proved it was not an ordinary sword.

“A fake like you has no right to touch me.”

-A flash from the black sword.

There is a sudden black gust. Ash, whose right hand is now handicapped, had nowhere to run to. He could only use the Manoplas on his left hand to protect himself.

As if a big hammer was hitting his head, the impact passed through his body in a short moment. The impact was so strong that even the Ark couldn’t endure it fully.

''“*Cough...*”''

“Where is your big talk just now?”

Milgauss let go of Ash’s right hand and then wielded the gigantic sword with both hands.

Then then lifted the sword brought it down all in one motion.

“Guak!”

The dark metal blade sunk into his abdomen. In that short moment… Ash felt that his waist was going to be chopped in two. Then the Ark made a ''‘click’'' sound. Even the Ark was groaning…

''“-Aegis!”''

Obviously, Milgauss was not an opponent for him to fight with in hand to hand combat. So Ash resummoned Aegis. The five units split out immediately and attacked Milgauss. As long as a light managed to hit him, he will then turn into a stone.

“Too slow!”

But Milgauss, with extraordinary nimble moves, avoided all the light rays. Then he swung the black sword at a lightning speed.

The units were being attacked and destroyed by a tornado-like slash. One after another they disappeared.

“What is he actually made of…!”

After Ash groaned, he was on his knees. The amount of magic collected in the Ark has a limit and Ash felt that the armour was slowly disappearing.

After Milgauss dealt with the five units his target had shifted once again to Ash. He gave Ash a kick without any delay. Even with the protection of the Ark, the impact was still transmitted into his abdomen.

''“*-Cough!*”''

Ash was out of breathe and was kicked around like a puppet. He finally landed hard, with his back facing the rocks.

Blood started flowing out from his mouth…

“Ku…”

Ash spit out saliva with blood in it and immediately hid behind the rock. The size of the rock is just enough to keep him hidden.

“Hmph. Are you trying to hide to drag out the time?”

Ash remained silent. He was sitting at the back of the rock waiting for a good moment. His body was in a mess and he probably had only one more chance…

''-Ssss, ssss…''

Milgauss was not buying any of his tricks and marched right towards Ash.

“Anything wrong right there? Can’t you use Aegis?”

''Milgauss was probably laughing his ass off right now''. Ash answered to himself while thinking of his disgusting face:

“Too bad. I’m out of magic…”

“Luck is not on your side today, shounen.”

Followed by a shout, there was an impact on the rock behind Ash.

===Part 28===
“Shoo. Shoo…!”

With the aid of the Ark, Ash easily jumped out through the ceiling’s hole but Eco wasn’t that lucky. She left Lancelot who was in a brutal fight with Nuada and climbed the huge winged cross.

“W-Wait for me…!”

Looking downwards, she saw Lucca was trying her best to cling onto the winged cross.

“Tsk… Just don’t blame me if you fall.”

Eco stepped on the wing of the winged cross without being bothered by Lucca. If she is not careful––she will definitely fall head down. Her current height was about ten meters. Although, she was frightened by it, she still needed to move forward.

Even though she felt guilty, about leaving Lucca, Eco still wanted to rush to Ash’s side as soon as possible.

The moment Eco saw the guy called Milgauss, she felt disgusted.

She remembered the nightmare that made her wet her bed.

Eco was attacked by a scary dragon in her dream.

It had nine eyes, numerous tentacles and was far scarier than a Necromancia…

The unbelievable thing was, the moment she saw Milgauss, the first thing that came into her mind was that dragon. It will be fine if she was just worrying too much… But just in case Eco’s instinct was right… Then Milgauss is a dangerous being. Eco couldn’t guarantee that the Ark has enough power to go against him.

Ash’s body condition also worried her.

Ash was, even in the beginning, a heavily injured patient. Logically speaking he should rest for a month, but…

But, even after she arrived at the location, apart from making the (mimic) Ark, there was nothing else she could do. It will not be surprising that she will be a burden.

Even so… Eco still couldn’t calm down her worrisome emotions and chose to climb the winged cross.

After some effort Eco finally arrived at the ceiling’s hole. She then took a look up, outside under the cloudy night sky.

“-Huh…?”

Eco had seen it all in that short moment.

Milgauss was holding a gigantic sword up high, looking like it had merged together with the night sky, and was going split open a rock.

Eco’s instinct told her that Ash was hiding behind the rock.

In an direct combat Ash was definitely out of his league. H was now going to be sliced open together with the rock by Milgauss…!

“Ash!”

Eco called out his name in desperation.

===Part 29===
''This blow will definitely crush the rock and Ash into pieces.'' Milgauss, who thought that he had a sure win, split open the rock in front of him.

The rock scattered into tiny fragments and powder.

A thick dust spread all over and blocked his sight.

After the explosion like power cooled down…

“What…?”

Milgauss remained in the exact posture of his finishing the blow.

After most of the dust falls, what was in front of Milgauss was not Ash’s body.

A unit in mid-air was pinning on to Milgauss.

A light was released from the front of the unit.

“Urgh…!”

Milgauss immediately lifted his left hand to block the light and also slashed the unit with his sword in his right hand. Although Aegis was reduced to light particles, and disappeared, its effect was still ongoing. Milgauss, who felt something was wrong, looked at his own body and saw his left arm starting to turn into stone.

“-Milgauss!”

Ash suddenly came down from the sky.

He had used the stone fragments as a screen and used an Aegis unit as a stepping stone to jump…

There was no longer an Ark on Ash. He probably used all his magic to summon the two units.

…Wait… He still has his Manoplas on his right hand!

“What an eyesore!”

Milgauss swung the black sword with only his right hand, but he had only manage to destroy the unit that Ash was stepping on.

“Uwooooo!”

Ash, who was experiencing free fall, uses the momentum and swings a punch with the Manoplas.

Milgauss immediately put up a defensive posture, with the huge sword above his head, but he still couldn’t avoid the powerful impact.

“Urgh…!’

Milgauss was knocked off together with his sword.

===Part 30===
“Huff, puff… How is this punch?”

At the same time Ash landed, his Manoplas disappeared. He next felt a terrible pain, as if his flesh was being sliced off.

But now is not the time for him to show his weak side. Even though Milgauss fell down hard on the ground, he still remains conscious. Ash could only try to bear with his pain.

“Hehe… Weren’t you out of magic?”

Milgauss, using the gigantic sword as a walking stick to support himself, slowly stood up. His left arm was hanging freely and lifelessly. It had been converted to stone.

“I didn’t say that I couldn’t summon Aegis again. It’s you who had been fooled. You had lost.”

“Hmph. I thought you were an idiot who only had strength. So it seems that you can actually do some scheming? But this can only be called as a trick and its still to much to call it a scheme."

After Milgauss made a haughty smile he seemed to remember something… He then pulled off his left arm and threw it to Ash.

“Wha…!”

Ash was staring at the left arm that landed on the ground.

“…Prosthetic arm?”

“That’s right. This is a creation of the Empire’s proud mechanical engineering.”

Ash was clenching his teeth. Ash is not only just a normal human without the protection of the Ark… He is also a seriously injured patient.

On the opposing side, Milgauss had only lost a prosthetic arm.

He was in a fix.

But- Just when Ash lost hope, there was a heroic voice coming from behind him.

“Listen carefully, Milgauss! I Silvia Lautreamont and Lancelot, have altogether defeated the young dragon Nuada’s spirit!”

Ash turned around to have a look and cheered happily.

“Princess! Lancelot!”

Nuada’s head was still in Lancelot’s mouth when it landed in between Ash and Milgauss. The only word that could describe its condition was 'terrible'. Its white skin had become dirty and full of blood.

Although injured… Lancelot’s blue eyes still looked as if they were full of spirit. Apart from Silvia, who was riding on its back, Eco and Lucca were also there.

Lancelot gave a menacing growl, while lowering down its neck, and placed Nuada’s head in front of Milgauss.

As if it wants Milgauss to apologize…

After Nuada’s severed head stared at Milgauss for a short moment, it turned into ashes. In the blink of an eye they were blown off by the nights breeze.

After Silvia witnessed the ashes being carried away by the wind she focused her attention back to Milgauss.

“…Princess?”

Ash knew something was wrong with her.

In this situation, winning was already in the grasp of their hand. No matter how strong Milgauss is, he will still face trouble when he is going against Silvia.

Logically speaking, Silvia should also know about this but she continued to stand still without any reasons.

“Hmph… It seems that I must change my opinion towards the Fourth Princess. I’ll withdraw for today.”

Milgauss placed the gigantic sword on his shoulder and slowly retreated.

“But the training campsite had already become a battle field. Just how many of them could survive? I would love to know…” Milgauss provoked.

After that, he jumped out into the night.

Surprisingly… He had jumped off the cliff.

Even so, from his previous battle experience with Milgauss, Ash knew that he is not just some average ordinary guy. He should have survived the fall.

And he will be back…

Just as if she had calculated the time, for Milgauss to withdraw, Silvia spoke:

“Thanks a lot, Lancelot. You may take your rest.”

Lancelot immediately bent its knees and lay down and, after closing its eyes, started to snore gently.

Silvia first climbed off its back then helped Eco and Lucca down from Lancelot.

“Is Lancelot alright?”

Ash worriedly looked at the sleeping Lancelot.

“Rest assured, it doesn’t have any vital injuries. It's just that… It has run out of magic. We only had the strength left to frighten Milgauss just now."

Ash only now knew why Silvia would let him escape. Because she didn’t even have the ability left to order him around. Back to the topic, if it was not because of Silvia’s and Lancelot’s intimidation, Ash would have died under Milgauss sword.

“And also, maybe… That guy…”

Silvia’s troubled looks made Ash curious.

“Princess?”

“N-Nothing. Just pretend that I didn’t say anything!”

Silvia, panicky, waved Ash off which in turns worried him further.

At this instant, Lucca said. “The training campsite is…”

Eco was also looking at the direction of the campsite dumbstruck.

“How come…!”

By following their sight… Ash also turned speechless.

Just like Milgauss declared, the training campsite had become a battle field. The Necromancias attack had yet to be stopped.

There were numerous sounds of explosions and the lights from the magic were flashing here and there. Although the campsite was safe, the dragon house beside was on fire and there were black smokes all over the night sky.

''Is everyone still alright? What about Rebecca? Max? And the rest? The instructors? The staffs for the training campsite? The girls who were in charge of the food service?''

“Damn… Even when we wanted to help them…”

Ash felt that he was filled with desperation.

''Apart from standing on the hills and looking from afar… We couldn’t even do a thing-''

As if to cheer him up, Lucca pulled Ash’s sleeves.

“I had a favor… To ask from you.”

As if she had made up her mind, Lucca was staring at Ash. Ash was troubled by it because her face was too close to his.

“W-What is it?”

Her Yōsei eyes were clear and shining even under the night sky.

Her eyes, full of determination, caused Ash to return her stare.

“Please… Come with me.”

“Why?”

“For Gawain and me… You had wagered your life for us. Just to let us feel the same like old times… If you are together with me… I think I could muster up some courage.”

“Could it be that you know a way to save everyone?”

Lucca extended her hand towards Ash.

“I want to save them… No, I must save them.”

Ash held Lucca’s palm as if he was going to be sucked in by the determination in her eyes.

Her body temperature was transmitted to Ash through her tiny leaf size like palm.

“Alright. I believe in you.”

After Ash answered with a steady tone Lucca smiled in embarrassment.

===Part 31===
Under the silent eyes of both Silvia and Eco Lucca and Ash move towards the edge of the cliff… Which was also the place where Milgauss jumped off from.

''Shoo… Shoo…'' The sounds of the winds pass through the darkness down below.

“Lucca…? What do you intend to do?”

Ash took a peek at Lucca’s face whilst being frightened.

“Jump down… From here.”

“J-Jump down-?”

Lucca didn’t answer. She just hurdled herself into Ash’s arms. Behind them there were immediate sounds of disparagement coming from both Silvia and Eco. There wasn't any time to worry about it.

Lucca placed her hands around Ash and hugged him as if she was hurting him on purpose. Although his organs were screaming in pain Ash still managed to bear with it. If he groaned in pain at this moment he will disappoint Lucca.

''Even so, what was Lucca actually thinking…?''

“We are going to jump.”

When her voice reaches Ash… He is already in mid-air.

Just like what she said, Lucca jumped down from the cliff.

And she was falling together with Ash-

The feeling of floating in mid-air only lasted for a second… Then both of them, gathering speed, fell in a straight line.

“Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Whilst listening to the sound of the winds buzzing past his ear, Ash was swallowed into the dark abyss. He thought that he heard Eco’s and Silvia’s screams, for a short moment from far above, but the voices were soon lost.

===Part 32===
They kept on falling.

Ash and Lucca were hugging each other when they fall towards the bottom of the cliff.

Thinking back carefully… The same thing happened when Eco was born. It seems that he was fated for such things…

Suddenly he seemed to hear Lucca’s voice, somewhat obscured by the sound of the wind.

She seemed to be speaking to herself while huddling to Ash.

“Sorry… Gawain. I’ll never again be afraid of you.”

''Aah… So that's it.''

Ash finally understands Lucca’s determination. Just like Gawain's overprotection of Lucca, which had caused itself cut off its Astral, this time Lucca wagered her own life.

After Lucca hugged Ash tighter, she shouted loudly:

“Please accept me once more, Gawain!”

It is hard to believe that such a loud voice would come from such a petite girl. Her voice sounded so strong that it was enough to pierce through the night.

There was a glaring light coming from Lucca suddenly.

The golden rays started to surround her body.

“Could this be… Astral?”

Ash, who was still falling with Lucca, was stunned. He couldn’t believe that he could see Astral with mortal eyes.

“Quick… Suck them in Gawain! Taken my Astral… No, absorb me! You are my… Pal!”

The shout that she put her full effort in was echoing in the night.

Just before the voice disappeared-

There was an explosion around the hills near Willing Mausoleum. Gawain emerged from it while releasing a magic that brightened the night sky.

Ash's gaze was attracted to Gawain’s movement. With the Astral flow resumed he had totally recovered.

After Gawain gave a roar, that a young dragon couldn’t possible make, it carefully catches both Lucca and Ash with its back.

===Part 33===
“I have… Another request.”

“I’ll do anything, as long as it is in my range of ability.”

Ash replied loudly. Their priority is to save the students and Ash is willing to suffer any kind of pain for it. Lucca worriedly stated her request in a low voice.

“…I’m going to challenge the Dragon Riding Dance. So… I hoped you could hold on to me tightly.”

“No problem!”

Ash recalled what Navi had said.

That is the Eckbald’s traditional dance.

Because of Lucca’s failure while practicing the dance it had caused her to have problems when facing Gawain.

Ash was unable to imagine what kind of a dance is that, but he was mentally prepared.

Now he could only place his hopes on Lucca’s Dragon Riding Dance.

Ash hugged Lucca’s waist tightly with both of his hands.

“Is this alright?”

“…Tighter.”

“How about this?”

“Tighter.”

“Urgh…What about this?”

Lucca answered by nodding.

Suddenly, there was a clear metallic sound coming from Lucca’s leg. Her dragsuit was modified with standard spurs. Gawain received the signal, lifted its head high, roared and then rushed up into the sky.

===Part 34===
The Ark had disappeared after Rebecca annihilate a group of Strada type Necromancia with her magic spear, Gáe Bolg.

Rebecca reluctantly sighed. Cú Chulainn's magic was almost used up and could no longer maintain its flight. It landed beside the lake.

“Should we end it here-”

The training campsite, that acted as a temporary battle headquarters, was still fine, but the dragon house nearby was being swallowed by a great fire.

Both parties were still fighting by the lakeside.

Just like Cú Chulainn all the dragons had already used up their magic and many of the were fighting using only hand to hand combat in its true and brutal form.

Because their opponents were Necromancias they had extraordinary endurance. Every time they receive a fatal blow, they still continue to regenerate and stand back up.

This batch of students had been performing well in this fight and they were worthy to become the selected participants of this training camp.

But there was no end to the amount of enemies. Everyone was wondering how many dragons had been buried at the mausaleum while reinforcements for the enemy just kept on arriving.

Apart from that, Rebecca could no longer summon the power of an Ark-Dragner. This fact alone had lowered the students fighting moral.

“We don’t have any more choices left. Should we just give up on the training campsite… And retreat?”

Rebecca made the bitter decision. Everyone would be devastated to lose such a great traditional facility. The training campsite, at Allonnes Lakeside, is also a place with long history.

But she must prioritize the students’ lives. If they give up right now they still have the chance to retreat in one piece. ''Once the retreating path had been blocked off by the Necromancias…'' Rebecca felt a cold chill just by thinking about it.

Currently: three students were heavily injured, fifteen were slightly injured and seven dragons were also injured. Although they had not yet suffered any fatalities yet… Still, if they continued to hold on… The situation will become irreversible.

Rebecca made up her mind. She took a deep breath and was about to order the students to retreat...

Just at this moment… A flying object shot passed in the sky.

From the bright silver track left behind by its excessive magic––that must be a Maestro.

“Is it Lancelot?”

No. The tracks left behind by in its dance were obviously not accomplished by any ordinary Maestro. It was as if it took the sky as its own drawing space and spread its wings boldly while flying…

“Could that be… Gawain?”

===Part 35===
''-What type of dragon riding is this? This is the first time in my whole life I saw Dragner control their dragon using this method…!''

Under the effect of the strong centrifugal force Ash nearly lost his consciousness.

He felt as if he was suffering from anemia. He was already facing trouble just holding on to Lucca.

If he had been careless even for one moment… He would most probably be facing a watery grave right now.

The Eckbald’s Dragon Riding Dance couldn’t be reasoned with human knowledge.

A sharp corner turn.

A strong centrifugal force that could even rattle the brain.

The ruffeling sounds of the wind rushing beside his ears.

Although he also faced groups of Strada type Necromancia along his way Gawain wasn't distracted by them, in the same way a lion is not bothered by ants, and it continued to fly on.

The Strada type Necromancia couldn’t keep up with Gawain’s speed and scattered like being blown off by a storm.

''-Is this really a… Dance?''

''If this is also considered a type of dance… How do we classify the flying method in the academy? This is totally at a different level! Obviously… There is too much of a difference…!''

''-Lucca is undoubtedly a genius!''

Ash finally knows the reason why Lucca was still selected for the training camp even after she had been absent for three months.

At the same time… He experienced personally the terrifying feeling of falling off in the midst of the Dragon Riding Dance. Just by thinking of it, Ash's entire body stiffened, knowing it was a miracle that Lucca's body remained intact even after she had fallen from Gawain during practice.

Also… Lucca was not flying blindly.

Ash realized that, onto the night sky, Gawain was tracing a magic pattern, all within a circle, with its tracks.

Not long after that, the huge magic diagram had been completed.

Thinking back… Navi had mentioned something before.

''-Once the Dragon riding dance had been completed, many effects of magic will be activated.''

Ash’s eyes widen.

“Isn’t this a ‘Seikoku’!”

That’s right! The image that Lucca and Gawain completed together is a ‘Seikoku’.

There was the head of a dragon in the middle of a circle and it looked unique. The diameter should be more than a hundred meters.

The moment the magic circle was completed Lucca shouted:

“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''!" <ref>From Sanskrit, means immortality</ref>

The magic circle started glowing, and then brightened into a glaring light.

===Part 36===
[[Image:SnRK V03 285.jpg|thumb|“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''."]]
All the students who were busy fighting by the lakeside were shocked by the sudden lights.

The huge magic circle- ‘Seikoku’ was hanging at a corner of the night sky.

“So you had succeeded… Lucca.”

Rebecca smiled in relief.

After being exposed to the strong glaring light the tough Necromancias had returned back to ashes one by one.

On the other hand, the students had recovered their energy as if they had been treated with healing magic.

Rebecca also felt that her body had become lighter and the gloom in her heart had departed. It's as if her desperation from before was only an illusion.

She now felt that she can still continue the battle.

Upon seeing all the Necromancias at the lakeside had been defeated the student cheered in unison. Even the injured patients who were taking refuge, back at the training campsite, ran out to the lakeside and cheered.

Looking at Gawain, who was flying energetically through the night sky, Rebecca chuckled.

“Since the ancient times the Eckbalds, who were dragners, were called ‘Elfn Dancer’. The Lucca right now best fits the descriptions-”

"Elfn Dancer ~A.S.B 1365.6~"is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3

2014-02-23T05:06:53Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, grammar and phrases. Captions. Still editing out the CRLF's and or broken sentences.

==Chapter 3 - The Lakeside Vacation==
===Part 1===
Danebury. It is one of the few commercial cities in Ansarivan.

In this town, which is heavily fortified, many trade guilds from different countries can be seen. All the businessmen were doing their best to sell their goods. Just don't get fooled by this peaceful town, this town can adopt to many changes.

Danebury is also a place famous for its nickname ‘Pot of different races’. No one will even bother with Anya, who is of a Tantalos tribe, when she was walking on the streets. There are many stalls by the road side trying to sell their goods ranging from fruits to flowers to spices.

“This street is as busy as ever.” Anya murmured in a low voice and continued to move towards her destination.

From the street she turned into an alley. Then she continued to walk forward.

She kept going and soon there was not even a soul around her. Anya arrived at a building made from bricks––which was also the gathering point. Anya entered through the main door and walked up the stairs.

At the end of the corridor, on the third floor, there was a door with a "Rosetta’s Business Firm” sign hanging on it.

That was the gathering point operated by the Zepharos Empire for spying activities purposes in the Knight Country.

“It's me. Anya. I’ve returned.”

“You may enter.”

Even though the voice from behind the door was that of a young guy it felt more like a fully matured man.

“Sorry for intruding.”

Anya put on a calm act upon entering to hide her happiness.

In the room, which was used as the office, Milgauss was leisurely sitting on a chair. There were no other souls in that room. The fact that they were alone made Anya nervous.

Milgauss, who glanced at Anya, was again wearing his silver mask. His hair, silver with a few strands of dark red, will definitely catch the attention of others even in this so called ‘Pot of different races’ Danebury city.

“It had been a while. Anya.”

“Yes. Milgauss-sama.”

A few days before… Milgauss had returned to the Empire because he had to give a report about the Necromancia experiment to the higher ups.

Milgauss's superior, Klaus, was Count of the Wadanhuoer borders. Anya had not seen him before. If you hear the title "Count of a borderland", it will always give the impression of an old man - but Klaus was a noble only in his twenties.

“I had received your report. You have managed to infiltrate the academy. Right?”

“Yes. I’m currently investigating the boy who defeated the Necromancia. This is the report.”

Anya walked towards the table and carefully took out the documents kept in her bag.

Because she hasn't spent much time working at ‘La Tene’ the intelligence that she had gathered was very, very little. But Milgauss still read it carefully, which made Anya happy.

After a few moments… Milgauss looked up from the document.

“Thanks for your hard work. Please continue with the job.”

“Understood. I’ll investigate Ash Blake and young dragon Eco next. Three days from now they will take part in the Selective Training Camp. "I’ll be going there as a staff member in charge of food service.”

“The Selective Training Camp...? So that season has already arrived.”

Anya was surprised… Since the way Milgauss spoke was as if he was remembering something from his past.

“This year… Will it be again held at Allonnes Lakeside?”

“That's what I heard.”

While Anya was confused and thought… "why did he ask about that?" Milgauss continued to question her.

“Do you know about Willingham Mausoleum?”

“If I remember correctly… I think it is a mausoleum located not far away from Allonnes Lakeside. I’m not sure about the details.”

“That is a special mausoleum. Only dragons that died young are enshrined there.” Milgauss explained.

“But why only young dragons?”

Anya asked while feeling a cold chill at her back.

“We will have to refer back to the history before the beginning of Saint’s calendar. During that time, the dragons faced a crisis where their young were dying and they had to solve the problems related to the extinction of their species. As a result; They created the wise dragon’s magic Albion… On the other hand… Willingham Mausoleum was built at about that time. After that, it became a tradition to bury young dragons there.”

Today is in year 1365 in the A.S.B calendar.<ref>After Saint's Birth</ref> What Milgauss had said was a story from an ancient time.

“You are really very knowledgeable!”

“This is just general knowledge.”

Anya was embarrassed. She was afraid that Milgauss will look down on her because she hadn’t studied much. Milgauss didn't notice the change in her expression and continued to speak:

“And speaking about young dragons… We are lacking experimental data on them.”

“Are you suggesting that…”

Anya, who realized Milgauss plan, was trembling in fear.

“That’s right. The Empire is awaiting for the day we can put the Necromancia into use. That is why we need more complete information.”

Milgauss intended to use the ashes of the young dragons for experiments. To summon a Necromancia… The bones and ashes of a dragon are a must.

In reality. Anya hated the Necromancia. She couldn’t accept the existence of ''those things''. Moreover. They were going to use the ashes of a young dragon. Her hair were already standing on the end by just thinking about that.

But. Milgauss had already decided and she must support him to the end.

Anya killed off her own feelings in preparations for the next battle.

===Part 2===
After Anya left the room… Milgauss again took up the report.

The report was full of information about young dragon Eco that Anya had collected. Even though the data wa yet to be completed… In a short time Milgauss still managed to find a hidden clue.

“So you are born… Descendant of Avalon…”

“Kuhu…" The sound of laughter came out from deep in his throat. The kind of laugh he'll never show in front of Anya. A negative feeling of love and hatred was spreading in his heart.

“Anyway. Is her name ‘Eco’?... I don't know whether this was on purpose or by fate… That's quite an ironic name her master had given her. But-“

Milgauss placed the report back on the table and looked outside of the window.

“It is still far better than to be killed by your own master. Don’t you think so too… Julius?”

===Part 3===
In the end. The first day for the selective training camp had arrived before Lucca’s and Gawain’s problem had been settled.

By the time the sun rises… The selected fifty-one riders left the school while being seen off by the remaining students.

When students, riding different types of dragons, appeared in the main streets of the city the residents gave loud cheers.

To see the top students off is a must-held activity every year during this season. Even the sun that was high up in the sky was wishing them good luck with its bright rays.

After leaving the walls of the town, the students followed the instruction of their instructors and were separated into three groups. '''(!)'''

It was because the upcoming paths will be chosen according to dragon types.

The Maestros and Stradas will take the sky path, Asias will take the land path and Hydras will take the waterway.

On the other hand, the staff from ‘La Tene’s’, who were in charge of food service, had previously departed. Cosette was also among them as she had volunteered to become staff. So it was a rare sight that she was traveling separately from Silvia.

Followed by the Stradas’ group, which began their journey by spreading their wings, the Asias’ group headed out, making their way down the streets with dust trailing behind them. The Hydras’ group was still playing in the water. Each of the groups were led by a professor who was also an instructor for practical skills.

Only the Student Council members and their Pals were not concerned by the groupings. They still remained standing in front of the town walls.

===Part 4===
“Right… Now is the time for us to decide who is going to give Ash, Eco and Lucca a ride.”

Rebecca, who was already wearing the official dragsuit for the student council president, announced.

Ash, Eco and Lucca were unable to reach the training camp on their own.

“Of course Ash-sama is going to follow me-”

Jessica who now had rosy colored cheeks volunteered herself. But after a few seconds her Pal Rhiannon, seemingly on its own, suddenly moved.

“Wait… Rhiannon what’s wrong with you?”

Rhiannon didn’t listen to its master’s orders and was running towards the river twenty meters away. Even though a Hydra can move on land they can only show their true ability in the water. It probably felt jumpy after being on land for a too long a time.

“S-Stop! Are you trying to disobey your master’s order?”

Too bad for her as Rhiannon wasn't listening to its master’s summons. Not only that but Jessica, who was chasing Rhiannon, was picked up by her belt, in it's mouth, using it to carry her. Moving its huge python-like body it arrived at the river in the blink of an eye. It quickly entered the water and started swimming off.

Jessica, who was now hanging by her belt in mid-air, turned to look at Ash and said:

“My dear Ash-sama… I’ll be waiting for you at Allonnes Lakeside––”

Rhiannon was swimming freely. Because it swam quickly they disappeared down the far end before Jessica was able to finish with her sentence.

“Is that Jessica’s Pal…? Its behavior is exactly like a duplicate of its master.”

Ash said while smiling.

“In the end they were just doing a comedy act.”

Rebecca was stunned when she saw her pitiful childhood friend depart.

“Lets us not be bothered by that, kaichou<ref>President</ref>. If we do not quickly depart, the rest of the students will start to wonder. Logically speaking… We should be the ones who are going to check up on their attendance.”

Rebecca agreed with what Max had said.

“Understood. So… Lucca. Do you have anyone that you want to ride with.”

Even though Lucca had already changed into her dragsuit she had not spoken since she departed from the school. Even at this moment she was looking down and depressed. Her Yōsei-like beauty seems to come with a feeling that it might disappear anytime like a bubble popping.

Gawain, as the supposed culprit for making Lucca feel depressed, did not even seem to be bothered. It was lying down on the ground with a worrisome expression. Ash initially thought that Gawain, who had its Astral cut off, wouldn’t be able to take part in the Selective Training Camp. However, it was said that, since ancient times, the Allonnes Lakeside had been a recuperative resting spot for the dragons.

''So… The reason that Gawain is willing to take part in this Training Camp is to prolong its lifespan...'' Ash personally thought.

“Lucca, if you remain silent, how am I to know what you were thinking?” Rebecca said while looking at her face.

Responding to Rebecca… Lucca reluctantly replied:

“I knew it… Since I was unable to ride on Gawain… There is no point for me to take part in the Selective Training Camp from the start.”

“You’re absolutely correct about it.”

Ash gasped after he heard what Rebecca had said. As far as he knew, this is the first time Rebecca was mean to Lucca.

“Anyway, if you continue on the way you are, the training camp will end meaninglessly for you.”

“If that's the case… Why do you still insist that I go with you?”

“The point is not whether it is meaningful or not.”

“Huh???”

“In reality, no matter if it is your birth, you being an Eckbald, becoming a breeder or becoming a dragner… There was never a meaning behind them in the first place. Those were just labels tacked-on by humans later on.”

Lucca slowly lifted her head and looked at Rebecca’s stare.

“Your point is… It is all down to me?”

“Great, you have known this for quite a long time, right?”

Rebecca finally smiled and gently patted Lucca’s head, even though Lucca still had a worrisome look on her, as at least she had made up her mind. She can be seen pulling Rebecca’s sleeve.

“I want to follow Rebecca.”

“Alright. I’ll be responsible for giving Lucca a ride to the Allonnes Lakeside. Next will be the problem concerning Ash and Eco.”

===Part 5===
Silvia’s heart skipped a beat when she heard what Rebecca had said.

She was troubled by her own feelings. ''Why do I feel excited? Does that mean that I hope to ride on the same dragon with Ash…?''

''-Ash Blake.''

He is an incredible guy.

He hadn’t spoken much to Silvia in the three years of his basic class years. That is because Silvia didn’t have any intention to befriend anyone. The only thing that she did was to keep on reminding herself; 'to become a great dragner' and that she herself must study hard. She didn’t even try to approach anyone and didn’t even think that it was necessary.

But… Ash had invaded Silvia’s enclosed life several times. During the dragon riding festival’s competition, the Necromancia’s attack and now they are comrades in the student council.

Also. There was the church’s terrorist incident… When that incident happened, even though it was a farce planned by Veronica, Ash was still in the center spotlight and had an eye catching excellent performance there.

“…”

Silvia’s cheeks unavoidably turned red when she tried to recall those events.

When the hostages were freed Ash approached Silvia. During that time, because Silvia had released all the stress that had built-up before she was freed, she didn’t even have the strength to stand up straight. Luckily… Ash supported her by her arm and also piggybacked her back to the academy.

Somehow. Ash's back made Silvia felt nostalgic.

Nine years ago––Silvia encountered a guy from the ‘Orphan Ceremony’.

Not only had he saved Silvia but he also gave Silvia the opportunity to become Lancelot’s master. Strictly speaking… It was the guy who refused the chance to become Lancelot’s master and handed over the responsibility to Silvia.

To Silvia… She was heavily in debt to that guy.

But, after the ‘Orphan Ceremony’ ended, Silvia had lost contact with that guy. Because that guy gave away his opportunity to become Lancelot’s master… He also lost the chance to become a breeder and will go back to his village empty handed.

The Princess of the Knight’s Royal Family and the village boy.

Logically speaking… They won’t have the chance to meet each other again for the rest of their lives.

Still… Somehow… Ash’s back had a similar smell as with that guy.

But of course this could just be Silvia’s mistake. Anyway. That incident happened nine years ago. It was probably Silvia who projected the image of that guy onto Ash.

Furthermore, that guy wouldn’t even be in Ansarivan.

Before parting, the last words that the guy told Silvia were:

''-You must work hard in my place in order to become a great Dragner.''

Because, he no longer had the chance to become a Dragner, that guy entrusted his wish onto Silvia.

In another words; That guy can never be Ash.

“Are you alright… Princess?” Ash’s words of concern swept away all of Silvia's present thoughts.

Somehow Ash had been peeping at Silvia’s face.

Ash, who was now in his dragsuit, looked totally different from his usual self. Not only did he look full of spirit but he also doesn’t seem to fit the title ‘Number One Problem Child in the academy’ anymore.

“N-Nothing! I’m alright!”

Silvia kept on shaking her hand to emphasize that she is alright. Ash was confused at first but then started to ask Silvia seriously.

“So… Do you allow Lancelot to give anyone a ride?”

“Err…”

Silvia was caught off guard for a little moment… ''What kind of conclusion did he make that made him use the word ‘So’?'' It seems that when she let her thoughts wonder… They had already made the decision.

From the way he said it… It had been decided that he is going to ride with Silvia.

She felt an amazing feeling from the depth of her heart.

''-H-How is this possible…! It is just a ride but why… Why would I have such a feeling? A-Am I-I h-happy about it? Does riding together with Ash make me happy!? I’ll never admit this…! I will never ever admit this…!''

Looking at how anxious Silvia looked Ash continued to ask:

“Princess. Are you not feeling well?”

“I-I’m fine alright!”

Silvia cleared her throat with a cough. She must first calm down her emotions.

“B-But because the Lautreamont family’s rules states that; ‘boys and girls must not ride together after seven’. Even though our relationship is quite intimate- No, no, our relationship cannot be considered intimate… But, for us to ride together to Allonnes Lakeside… I-It is actually a little bit difficult for me.”

“What were you mumbling about? Do you hate it for us to ride together that much?”

Ash was staring at Silvia looking surprised.

“I-It is not that I hate it….”

"So you are basically saying that you allowed it. Of course, since Lancelot is good at accelerating, so holding on tight to Princess is a must for safety reasons.”

“What…!”

Silvia almost had her head explode with the thought of Ash holding on to her waist.

“Hey! Ash. Are you trying to ride with me with those kinds of indecent thoughts?”

“Huh? What are you talking about? If you don't hold on tight during the ride… It is the same as toying with your own life.”

Silvia’s lifted her angry and trembling fist in front of her chest and declared to Ash:

“Why don't I… let you vanish from this world right now!!!”

“Huh??”

Ash was knocked back over after an iron punch at the chin. He made a beautiful curve in midair and landed with a thump. Though, because of his dragsuit, he didn’t felt much pain.

Rebecca, Max and Eco were completely stunned as they watched Ash stand up shakily.

“Why did you punch me…!? The person who is going to ride with Princess is Eco?”

“What!”

With a ‘crack’… The time had frozen.

In this moment, Silvia realized that she had misunderstood.

To put it bluntly… The person who is going to ride with Silvia was Eco. As for Ash––He had already asked Max to let Arianrhod to give him a ride––this should be the logical conclusion made. It would naturally be more comfortable for people of the same gender to ride together.

Silvia’s body was heated up by her embarrassment. She wished for a cave to hide into.

“Baka! <ref>Idiot.</ref> Why didn’t you mention it earlier!”

===Part 6===
The dragon leading the flight was Cú Chulainn and was followed by Arianrhod. Lucca was with Rebecca while Ash was with Max.

Gawain was the next to leave. It was probably because it does not receive any Astral, there isn’t a single hint of haki<ref>You will know what it is if you read one piece. But haki is 覇気 which literally means an aura that someone strong emits that will let their enemies or the people around them feel under tension or fear.</ref> from it. Even though Allonnes Lakeside was a healing rest spot, it still looked like the living dead, bringing it along felt like a torture for it.

“Alright. It’s our turn now!”

Silvia turned back and look at Eco.

“I’ll sit on the dragon first and you shall sit behind me. You mustn’t ever loosen your grip from my waist. It's dangerous.”

“Understood.”

Eco obediently nodded in reply.

With a simple leap Silvia landed at the front of Lancelot's back. After she held the leather reins she felt refreshed.

“Come on… Eco!”

Her left hand left her grips on the reins and stretch towards Eco.

At this moment… A very strange thing happened. Lancelot, as if to make it easy for Eco to get into the saddle, automatically kneeled down. Not only that… It also lowered its head respectfully in front of Eco.

“Lancelot…?”

Silvia was confused. Lancelot’s behavior right now was as a servant serving its master. Even though Silvia was its master she had never received a treatment as classy as this. The incident that was happening now was shocking enough.

After Silvia pulled Eco up onto Lancelot she asked:

“…It seems that Lancelot respects you a lot. Do you know why?”

After Eco sat behind Silvia she answered with a confused tone:

“For heaven’s sake… I don’t know anything. But as far as I can see, since it respects me, I’ll generously praise it as a smart dragon."

Eco showed a proud expression.

“Grrrunn…”

After receiving Eco’s praise Lancelot made a cute voice.

“H-Hey! You are not allowed to make that sound to anyone except me! You are Silvia Lautreamont's… My Pal! Quickly make a brave voice!”

Silvia scolded it sternly and gave it a light kick in its tummy. Lancelot was in a shock and quickly spread its wings and took off.

===Part 7===
In a blink of an eye, the groups of Maestros were a hundred meters above the ground.

“Uuh… This scenery is one that you’ll never get bored of.”

Silvia said happily.

At the center of the endless plains… Ansarivan is like a beautiful model. The streets for the dragon riding festival’s competition and Fianna Forest can be seen all together.

The Strada’s group, lead by the instructors, were some distance away and look like a pea. Although, with the true ability of a Maestro, they could pass them in a moment Rebecca still purposely maintained a low speed. The reason is probably she didn’t want the rest of the students to find out about Lucca and Gawain. Even though it is going to spread, sooner or later, the fact that Lucca couldn’t ride her pal still remained a secret.

“Listen carefully! You must never loosen your grip!”

Silvia reminded Eco while looking at the front.

Everybody was wearing their hardy dragsuit but only Eco was in her uniform. Maybe she took this activity as a field trip.

But… Eco suddenly felt down.

“What’s wrong with you?”

Silvia was worried about Eco’s condition. But what she received was an even confusing answer.

“Why are yours this big?”

Silvia didn’t understand what she meant.

“Big..? What were you talking about?”

Eco suddenly emits a killing intent that immediately frightens Silvia.

“I’m talking about your breasts! Why are yours and Rebecca’s this big?”

“Th-This is too sudden! So you are also worrying about this stuff?”

Silvia was stunned. Even though Eco always stated things like ‘honorable and extraordinary dragons’ she still faced human-liked troubles.

“That’s because of Ash… Sometimes… He will either stare at yours or Rebecca’s breast. I’m really unhappy about it. Even though I still don’t know the reasons yet…”

“What did you say!?”

Silvia was almost infected by Eco’s anger but she managed to control herself. They were now in the middle of a flight and had unconsciously reached a two hundred meters in height. She mustn’t loose her cool here.

“Even when that fellow likes to look at breasts… He won’t even be bothered by mine. Why was this happening?! I can’t accept this!”

“T-That’s because…” Silvia was suffering from a severe lack of vocabulary to use.

Anyway… She knew next to nothing about a guy’s thinking. That’s why she was unable to answer Eco.

''-Back to the topic… Ash looked at my breasts?”''

Silvia’s cheeks became hot.

Although she was angry at his behavior, on the other hand, she doesn’t really hate it. She was also surprised and confused that she felt contradicted.

No, not only she doesn’t have the feeling of repulsion, in fact…

''-Stop! What am I thinking about!''

Even as Silvia was struggling within herself… Eco suddenly demanded something unspeakably outrageous.

“W-What are you thinking about! How could I ever agree with that!”

“Even when you reject it verbally… Your defenses are full of holes!”

Eco squeezed her hand under the both sides of Silvia’s armpits and Silvia’s muscles suddenly have a shock. Eco was right; Silvia, who was now in control of the reins, now has zero protection as far as she can see.

“S-Stop- Ahh…”

Eco was toying with Silvia’s breasts through her dragsuit with her tiny hands. She was as innocent as a child who was playing with a newly received toy.
[[Image:SnRK V03 142.jpg|thumb|“It’s soft! It’s really soft! There must have been magic placed on these that can charm the male animal!”]]

“It’s soft! It’s really soft! There must have been magic placed on these that can charm the male animal!”

“Y-You are just thinking too much! Wait... Aah...!”

Eco was playing with Silvia’s breast just like making pasta without holding herself back. This had made her lose her strength and also loosen her hold on the reins.

“Have you had enough of this already! You better be careful of your mischief... or else I’ll push you down!!!”

Lancelot kept on moving upwards and had now reached three hundred meters in altitude. Eco’s face turned pale after she peeked downwards.

“Alright... alright...”

Eco, who was scared by the height, reluctantly let go of Silvia’s breasts.

===Part 8===
Allonnes Lake has the largest surface area of any lake in the Knight Country.

It is also the place where they produce ayu and funa. <ref>Types of fish. 鮎 ayu is also called sweet fish, 鮒 funa is called crucain carp.</ref>

On the other hand… The forest surrounding the lake was known as Norg Forrest. The wild plants growing there contain high amounts of Astral. It was also well known as a recuperative resting spot for dragons.

There are many villas scattering around the lakeside that can be seen from the air. The most striking of them, owned by the dragon riding academy, was none other than the facility for the training camp.

Even though it looked like an old building from the outside it was still a huge dragon house. The functional dragon house here had enough rooms for about sixty dragons. It looked magnificent just by it sheer size.

Also, at the same time, a little distance away from the lakeside there are some large rocky hills. One of which is the location of the ancient mausoleum.

All scholars specialized in dragons will know that that is Willingham Mausoleum.

===Part 9===
The first to arrive at the lakeside were the Strada and Maestro groups. The one way journey took about three hours as the dragon flies. The riders casually entered the training campsite and waited comfortably for the other groups to arrive.

The supporting staff, that arrived earlier at the training campsite including Angela, academy lecturers and food service personnel, welcomed Ash and the rest with cheers and smiles. Cosette was wearing a royal standard maid attire while serving drinks to the students.

The next to arrive was the hydra group who were slower than those who used the sky paths by two hours. Jessica who escaped from Rhiannon’s clenches kept on hugging Ash after she had entered the restaurant.

The last to arrive were the Asia’s group. They slowly arrived around four hours later than those who used the sky paths had arrived.

Rebecca who acted as the master of ceremony stood up and glanced at the students.

“I’m student council president Rebecca Randall. I’m happy that no accidents have happened and everyone had arrived here safely.”

Logically speaking… This speech should be given by a lecturer but they were off sitting at a corner drinking their tea. They clearly understood that they don't have the influence Rebecca possessed so they just let it be.

“Listen carefully. This Selective Training Camp is not a place to just gather the entire group of good students to do activities together. After graduation… Everyone will start working in their own field. As long as you have the experience in taking part in this camp you will be seen and respected differently everywhere. For example; Every member of the famous Holy-Dragners of Lautreamont had left the Selective Training Camp with good good performance results.

However, if there were any students who wanted to join the Dragners, you still mustn’t feel complacent just because you had been chosen to join this selective training camp. I hope that every person here joined with the spirit to win.”

All the students gave full attention to Rebecca’s talk.

Ash who had never thought about his future suddenly felt that the atmosphere around him had become tense and felt himself missing out.

''-Everyone’s so hardworking….''

Ash was different from those who worked hard to join the Selective Training Camp. He only managed to be here, right now, thanks to Rebecca’s personal opinion.

To put it bluntly… Ash still hasn't felt the same excitement, as the others, for the training camp.

“So, for all the students, please rest sufficiently for today because tomorrow’s special training will need it.

Rebecca, all serious up until there, suddenly showed a mischievous smile.

“That being said… But, for some relaxation, we will still provide you all with some time off to enjoy the lake.

After a short silence. The restaurant was drowned under the sound of cheers.

===Part 10===
Under the bright sun… The students gathered at the lakeside were full of spirit. Because they had departed from the academy early… There was ample time for them to have fun before the sun sets.

Although Ash didn’t bring his swimming wear with him he still never regretted that. It was because he never had any intention to have fun in the water.

If he changed into swimming wear the ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand will be exposed and going into the water with the bandages on doesn't look natural at all.

Ash changed into his casual wear, which include his t-shirt, shorts and sandals, and was sitting leisurely by the lakeside.

There wasn’t anybody from the student council that came into his view. Max, as usual, was currently suffering from his crazy neat freak illness and was off cleaning the room. From Ash's viewpoint… It's a wonder if he could finish it before evening.

Lucca, who was a natural shut-in, had hid herself inside her own room. Gawain was not in the dragon house but was sleeping somewhere in Norg Forrest surrounding the lake to recover some astral.

As for Rebecca, Silvia, Jessica, and Eco… They should be still changing in the changing room. Cosette did prepare a swimming suit for Eco and Ash was thankful for her to be this understanding.

“Ash-samaaaaaa.”

At this moment. A huge hydra appeared with a like sized big splash.

It seems that it was Rhiannon. From its neck to its head is in a curve shape which made it looked more like a snake than a dragon.

Needless to say, the person on its head was Jessica. She was wearing a cute orange colored bikini.

It was not surprising that Jessica would bring her pal along with her. Whenever the academy’s students were playing around with water the Hydras were the most active in it. One by one the riders of the Hydras appeared on the lake and sounds of cheers could be heard.

“J-Jessica..?”

Ash became nervous while standing in front of Jessica, he just didn’t know where to look at. Even when Jessica’s attitude had always been daring… She still has a nice body. In front of her cleavage, upper arms, hips and soft tender skin… Ash gulped.

“Ara? Ash-sama you didn’t bring your swimming wear with you?”

“Err… I’m not in the mood for swimming…”

“How could you do that! It is our honeymoon!”

“Why would a decent activity become a honeymoon! And I’m not even married to you!”

“Haa… Your indifferent attitude is so charming. Come, hold my hand, and together we will challenge the sea! Our sea adventure is going to start!”

“I think that you have been mistaken! This is a lake and not a sea!”

“That won’t be a problem! Rhiannon! Go and fetch me Ash-sama!”

After roaring once Rhiannon clumsily lifted Ash up by his collar.

“Hu… Uwaaaaa!”

Ash, hanging in midair, was forcefully brought to the middle of the lake.

===Part 11===
Inside the girl’s changing room, of the training camp, Silvia was stunned.

It is because of Cosette acted naturally when she handed her her swimming wear? The design was just too much of an exaggeration. Although the color blue is Silvia’s favorite it's also a two piece bikini which...

But, hold on, there is way too little fabric on this swim wear!

“…. Cosette… Are you sure you want me to actually wear this swimsuit? You know… I’m- Silvia Lautreamont the proud fourth princess of the Knight’s family!”

“Of course. Princess.”

Cosette just revealed a big smile, it seemed like she wasn't going to prepare any another swimming wear for her. No, it should be said that, she only prepared this one for her.

On the other hand… Eco had changed into a cute one piece swimsuit outfit.

"So, I see, this is a swimsuit. It's my first time wearing one!”.

Eco was excitedly examining at herself wearing her swimsuit. It uses white color as a base with cute ribbons as accessories. ''If there is such a swimming suit, why did you not prepare the same one for me…'' Silvia offered a seriously complaining glare towards Cosette.
[[Image:SnRK V03 151.jpg|thumb|"So, I see, this is a swimsuit. It's my first time wearing one!”.]]

“I think that this swimming wear suits you well, what do you think about it Eco?”

“You really have some good perception at appreciating beautiful things that can satisfy a dragon! You are really good!”

“It’s my pleasure.” Cosette bowed gracefully.

Rebecca, who was right in front of Silvia, had already changed into a deep red colored bikini and had also put on a mischievous smile.

“Anything wrong? Have you not finished changing yet Silvia?”

“R-Right…”

Silvia was normally confident in her body but compared to how Rebecca presented herself she felt depressed. For Silvia, who was still 'growing', Rebecca’s body can only be described with the word 'perfect'. The dark red colored bikini suits her so well it made Silvia clench her teeth.

''In front of a girl who had such a nice body, any boy would have fallen for her. Ash also must have been…''

''-Stop, stop! Why would Ash appear at such a time.'' Silvia immediately shook her head.

Rebecca, with another mischievous smile, said to her:

“Be quick. Silvia! I’ll be leaving first!”

Eco too followed right behind Rebecca.

The only ones left in the changing room were Silvia and Cosette.

“Alright. Please be quick princess. I beg your forgiveness… If you are still worrying about anything, please pardon my rudeness by forcing you to change.”

“I think that… You are not even afraid of anything. No? Aren’t you even enjoying this…?”

“Ara? So I have been found out. Ufufufu.”

Cosette, after that dangerous laugh, took a step forward.

She had the eyes of a hunter who had locked on on its prey.

===Part 12===
At the lakeside Rebecca was sitting on a beach chair with her sunglasses. She looked classy with a wine glass in one hand while leisurely enjoying her environment.

“T-To be able to watch the president in her swimming wear… We are just too lucky.” The guys immediately revealed their perverted behavior.

Even though all of them were top students… They were still guys in their teens.

Silvia gave an insulting look at the perverted guys and stiffly walked to the lakeside. She embarrassingly turned back and asked Cosette about her opinion. “Hey… Cosette, do I really… Doesn’t it look weird?”
[[Image:SnRK V03 004-005.jpg|thumb|"It suits you well!" The breeze from the lake made Silvia feel cold and also made it hard to calm her emotions down.]]

“It suits you well!”

“D-Does it?”

The breeze form the lake made Silvia feel cold and also made it hard to calm her emotions down. Furthermore. There was the feeling of her swimsuit, if she was careless, getting stuck in between her butt which made her nervous. Of course this is also the first time where she was wearing such a daring outfit in front of a crowd.

Cosette suddenly whispered to her.

“Rest assure… Ash-sama will be happy with this.”

“W-W-Why must you mention Ash!”

Silvia angrily glared but, at that moment, there began a ruckus among the guys.

“Princess had arrived!”

“What a sexy bikini!”

“I… I can now die happy…!”

Silvia became nervous. She felt that her body was trampled on by their sights.

“Hey, Cosette! Give me something to cover my body… Whether it's a towel or a shirt!”

“If you don’t mind my apron… I could lend it to you.”

“How could a princess of a country wear such a thing!”

“I personally think that the combination of an apron and bikini will not only amaze the others but be interesting too.”

“What are you joking about!”

Silvia wanted to immediately return to the training camp changing room. Anyway. It is unnecessary for her to accompany these excited students. She should had stayed in her room quietly like Lucca and Max.

At this moment, a desperate scream could be heard all over the lake.

“Uwaaaa! I beg you… please stop!”

Silvia immediately knew that it was Ash’s voice.

She doesn’t know the reason why she could recognize Ash’s voice right away like that.

“Ohohoho! Rhiannon’s ability is not limited to only this. Ash-sama!”

The Hydra Rhiannon was surfing on the lake at high speed and the ones riding on its back are none other than Jessica and Ash.

“…!”

Just when Silvia was still confused about her own feelings-

“Grrrroooooo…!”

Lancelot, followed by a roar, landed by the lakeside. The sudden air blast had lifted some dust.

The most unbelievable thing was that Eco was the person riding it. Under the condition where Silvia was not present Lancelot, willingly and unexpectedly, let Eco ride on its back.

“H- How is this possible!” Silvia shouted.

Silvia couldn’t believe her own eyes.

Eco, holding the reins in her swimsuit, was smiling. After she spotted Silvia she said:

“I’ll be borrowing your Pal for a while!”

Silvia immediately rushed forward.

“Hold on. Eco! How come… You are riding on Lancelot!?”

“I had enough of that girl called Jessica! Damn. Even when Ash is my meat slave!”

Eco clenched her teeth when looking at Jessica, playing happily at the middle of the lake.

“To go up against Jessica, I must have a hydra. But the only breeder who has a hydra in the student council is Jessica. Then… I thought of something. A Maestro can move freely in sea, land or air!”

“Even though what you were saying was right… I’m still surprised that Lancelot is willing to give you a ride. Hey Lancelot! What's the big idea!"

After being scolded by Silvia, Lancelot reacted with lowering down its head. This was the first time Silvia saw Lancelot behaving like this.

It was normally a ferocious, classy Maestro who matched up well with Silvia…

“So. What are you going to do?”

Silvia was still stunned by both Lancelot's and Eco’s behavior.

“I want to let Jessica taste some bitterness. Are you with me? Or are you not?”

Eco’s scarlet eyes were looking at Silvia from high up.

Silvia didn’t expect Eco to invite her. It's probably the three hours they spent together on the journey that made their relationship closer. ''Or else, she is… Treating me as a rival. Wait! A rival in what sense?''

Seeing Silvia still couldn’t make up her mind… Eco impatiently provoked:

“Hey! If you still can’t make your mind… I’ll be leaving you!”

These words gave her a little push.

Silvia had given up thinking about those troublesome questions.

The sun was shining brightly in the sky. The beautiful Allonnes lake is right in front of her and the students whom had changed into their colorful swimming wear.

In the corner of her eyes… Ash can be seen playing with Jessica on the back of the hydra.

In this case… there is only one thing to do.

“C-Count me in!”

Silvia, with much effort, managed to say those words and she jumped onto Lancelot. She received the reins from Eco and immediately ordered Lancelot to take flight.

Seeing that Silvia decided to join in the waterborne fun… A loud cheer went up around the beach.

"Playing with Water ~A.S.B. ~1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1

2014-02-14T22:19:34Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases. Sentence reconstruction. Caption.

==Chapter 1 - The Month of Gemini's Selective Training Camp==
===Part 1===
An eye was staring at Eco in the dark.

Its blood red pupils were blazing like a burning torch.

One, two, three...... The number of eyes were increasing.

"Don’t...... Don’t look at me!"

Eco ran wildly as if to escape the ominous sight.

She was wandering in the dark without any direction.

But regardless of how far Eco runs she can’t escape those eyes.

Those blood red eyes, like moons hanging up high in the sky, were staring down at Eco.

"H-Help......"

Eco, who usually didn’t communicate any signs of weakness, shouted out loud for help.

Because her overriding fear has long exceeded her self-esteem limits.

"Ash… Please help me!"

Even when she had shouted a name, that she rarely mentions, there was no response.

"Urk......!"

Eco suddenly fell to the ground hitting her face hard. The problem seems to be something wrapped around her right ankle. That has to be the culprit that tripped her.

"W-What is this......?"

Eco wanted to stand up quickly but now… Even her left ankle was caught.

"No...... Don’t!"

Even when Eco was clinging to the ground, struggling to avoid being pulled away, her efforts were in vain.

Her fingers just couldn't cling to the dark slippery surface which eerily felt like the skin of a soft animal.

In only a few moments Eco’s hands had also been entangled and she lost their freedom.

In the next second she was easily raised up in mid-air.

This frightening feeling… Eco had experienced it before.

"Is this a... Necromancia?"

Soon. An object with nine eyes appears in front of Eco. Its eyes became the only light source which dimly lit up its surroundings.

The initial black shadow had finally revealed its true-self.

It was a shocking space covered with a dense mass of creepy purple worms.

But those creepy objects were no ordinary earthworms. Each of the worms was, in reality, a tentacle thicker than Eco’s arm.

Those countless tentacles were facing Eco.

“Eek……”

Eco kept on struggling. If this continued her body will be sacrificed for those tentacles.

However, the more she struggled, the more firmly the tentacles gripped her hands and legs. Not only that… The rest of the tentacles had launched a series of attacks targeted at tearing Eco’s clothes.

"Stop…!"

Those frightening tentacles were squirming on Eco’s naked skin.

Such as over her chest, on the tummy, and along the inner thighs...

Eco was frightened enough to have goosebumps.

"S-Stop. How dare you look down on me!"

Even though she shouted with all her might… The tentacles attack only became more intensified.

"I've had enough... This is.... Too cruel...."

In the end Eco, who was now covered only in ripped and tattered rags, was hanging in mid-air almost naked.

She felt like livestock that was led to be slaughtered.

“Boo… Hoo…” Sobbed Eco.

The humiliation Eco received made her furious almost as if her blood is boiling. However. The tentacles were not bothered in the least, by her indignation, and continued to wrap around her body unhindered.

"Why...... Didn’t you come and save me?"

Ash face emerged in Eco’s mind

Why did he sit back, while watching his master experience such misery, and yet still refuse to rescue her?

No, in fact, Eco had long been aware that Ash is her master and that she was the one that was being reared.

But, because of her self-esteem, she was unwilling to admit that Ash is really her master. She also, in turn, treated Ash as her pet dog.

''Is this karma<ref>The original meaning is something like a decided fate cause by her pervious actions.</ref>? If this is the case… Such a fate can only be blamed on myself.''

"I'm sorry... I'm sorry...!"

Eco was in tears. Unfortunately it was too late. Even if she shouted with all her might… Ash would not show up.

Eco was aware of that and she closed her eyes.

No matter what kind of punishment God bestowed. She intends to accept it with her heart.

The tentacles swarm over her body gradually and eventually have her covered-

Right at this moment... A low sound originats from the ground and can be heard from every direction.

"This time… let’s us have our stuff settled for once and for all- ‘Daughter of Avalon' "

===Part 2===
"Hey...... Wake up. Hurry up......"

Ash’s shoulders were vigorously shaken which cause him to wake up from his sleep.

"Hmm...... Eco?"

While rubbing his sleepy eyes Ash looks around. The room is dark. The sun rays that’s managed to pass through the curtains silts were still very weak. It will be some time before the morning bell rings.

Ash was rather surprised for such rare thing to happen.

Eco had actually woken up early and, then of course, woke up Ash. It was a rare sight for Eco, who is a sleepy head<ref> The original word also bears the meaning of the intention of staying in bed and not want to wake up.</ref>, by nature. More tellingly he felt nothing of her usual aggressiveness.

"What’s wrong with you?" Suddenly his sleepiness was swept away.

Ash jumped up from his bed to examine Eco's peculiar behavior.

"That..." Eco showed some uneasiness in her expression.

For Eco, who was always acting haughty, it was hard to think that she can make such an expression. Even her pair of stubs, that signify a young dragon, looked pale.

In addition. Ash was also very surprised that Eco had already put on her clothing this morning. Because in the past Eco always woke up naked. Without any exception.

Ash was surprised to find that there was a hint of soap fragrance from Eco’s body. It seems that she had taken her bath while Ash was sleeping.

"What’s the matter?"

"On the bed... That..."

Eco flushed while she looked at the beds.

"What’s wrong with the bed?"

Ash crawled out from the futon on the floor, and moved towards the bed.

Eco, with her embarrassed expression, looks downward and blushes. Judging on the looks of her face, Ash finally understood why. He remembered his conversation in the past with Eco.

-''"Anyway... I have not seen you secrete a Bright Dragon Crystal."''

''-“How can I casually expose those shameful things in front of others!"''

''-“Bright Dragon Crystals are formed when excess magic crystallizes(?) Even when seen… I think it is no big deal….!!! "''

''-“Although I do not deny that I inevitably will run into the kind of really intolerable situation. At least carelessly become incontinence..."''

"Ahh… Now I understand. Eco. You have finally undergone incontinence. Is it not?"

After Ash cast her a snappish smile Eco’s shoulders are shaking.

"I- I. It is not my intention to do so... There are always times when things happen without our consciousness!"

"It is alright and don’t you worry about it. Anyway, for us humans, it's no big deal."

"Really?"

"Of course. I even wanted to carry it as a good luck charm!"

"Wha-What did you say?"

"Hey. What are you fussing about? In fact. There are also many students who carry them along as an amulet!"

"I-I can’t believe it... Also. How do they carry it?"

"You just have to put it in your pocket or inside the bag!"

"H-How is it possible...? Are you kidding me? Those liquid..."

"Liquid? You are the one who is joking. It's always solid!"
[[Image:SnRK V03 027.jpg|thumb|"Wha-What did you say?"]]

Upon hearing that Eco clenched her teeth.

"What do you think I had come out with!!! How could it be solid!!!"

Ash crossed his arms and think. He had never heard of a liquid Bright Dragon Crystal. Even though he had become more and more curious about what had happened. But. The real priority was to calm down Eco’s anger.

Ash took a deep breath to calm down his heart. What he needed right now was to speak with her.

"Listen to me carefully. There exist many differences between human's and dragon's cognition. Perhaps to dragons, it is indeed a very shameful thing, but for us humans that is but a small matter."

“Err…”

Even though Eco was still hiding something, perhaps she was moved by Ash, her temper finally calmed down.

"So please let me have a look."

Ash stretched out his hand towards the bed, but Eco quickly blocked.

"I-I really can’t... It is too shameful!"

Seeing Eco blushing and her humbly pleading looks, Ash’s heart starts to race.

"Don’t worry. Eco. You are my pal! Regardless of what substance you had secreted I will never abandon you and will never laugh at you. I will accept you as who you are."

"... Really?"

Eco’s eyes were wet as if she was deeply moved and she finally moved aside.

"Alright... I believe in you."

"Then I’ll make my move."

With mixed feelings Ash flipped over the blanket.

"...?"

However, the moment he saw the sheets, Ash was shocked.

There was a huge world map on the middle of the bed sheet. When Ash was still in his village, he had helped take care of his younger sister. This sight made him felt a little nostalgic.

"You... After this long argument… You wet the bed!"

"If not so, what were you originally thinking about!"

Eco flushed while shaking her pair of fists.

"Err. I originally thought it was the... Bright Dragon Crystal."

"Don’t you know how many times more shameful it is to come out with the Bright Dragon Crystal!"

"Is that so- ''Urgh''!"

With Eco iron fist bursting, Ash was knocked against the wall in one hit. If he wants to fix the gap between humans and dragons… It seemed that he needed to communicate with her more.

===Part 3===
Early in the morning there were several male students who gathered at the laundry drying area. Beside it was a water storage place where clothes could be washed.

Fortunately today's sky was clear which made it a suitable day for doing the laundry. Ash moved towards the water storage and filled the laundry tub with water. He wanted to clean the sheets, that Eco wet, quickly before he ran into any acquaintances. Just when Ash was secretly thinking...

"Yo. Ash!"

Someone suddenly slapped his back which caused him to choke and cough several times. When he looked back it turned out to be, his good for nothing friend, Raymond Kirkland. Like Ash. He was also carrying a basket full of dirty clothes. Ash gave him a questioning look

"Why? Since you looked kinda glum… You must have been quarreling with Eco is it not?"

"Nah..."

Ash tried to hide the sheets quietly but they were still seen by Raymond’s sharp-eyes.

"Woah!... You still wet your bed even at this age!"

Once he spied the world map on the sheets, Raymond laughed. The other students who also heard that, turned towards Ash.

"N-No... It's not me who wet my bed!"

"Since it is not you ... Is it Eco?"

Ash whispered in Raymond’s ear over his shoulder.

"I beg you not to tell anyone. Eco seemed to have received a big blow... She is without her usual high spirits this whole morning."

"Really? There are also times when Eco is feeling frustrated. That is really unexpected."

"It is because she has a high self-esteem... I think she can’t forgive herself for bed-wetting."

"Don’t you look at her that way. She is only just a two and a half month old young dragon. It is normal for her to wet the bed!"

"What you said also seems logical to me! Her looks made me forget about it."

Ash and Raymond were chatting while washing their clothes. After Ash put in some detergent, he began to scrub the stains on the fabric.

"Speaking of laundry, are you also responsible for cleaning Eco’s clothes and underwear?"

"Who will wash it if I don’t?"

Ash snappily replied. In fact. Ash is responsible for cleaning all of Eco’s clothing.

"Eco’s underwear... If it is possible I could help her wash them."

"Do you think there is someone foolish enough to pass their room keys to a thief in this world?"

Ash remained silent after speaking this sentence and concentrates on washing his clothes. If he continued to go on chatting, he will too be late to catch up with this morning's scheduled assembly.

Raymond was also concentrating on washing his clothes, in the beginning, but Raymond is not the type of person who can keep quiet for very long. In just the next moment he brought up another topic.

"Do you know what happened to Jessica Valentine? Didn’t she have a crush on you? There is some trouble in the SKFC because of her resignation!"

"Please, don’t even mention that topic ... I had a stomach ache by just thinking about it."

Recently, in Ansarivan, St Valeria’s church had just been occupied. What Raymond had said made him recall this incident.

The person who rescued Jessica, who unfortunately became an unwitting hostage to this incident, was none other than Ash. The reason was; Ash's secret, as the legendary hero 'Silver Knight', was known by Jessica.

As a result Jessica, who was the Silver Knight Fan Club’s (SKFC) president, was promoted to become a member of the student council. The reason why Jessica was selected was to prevent the Silver Knight’s secret from being spread among the SKFC’s members.

All these arrangements had been made by the student council’s president... Rebecca.

It was certainly a good thing for Jessica to agree to keep Ash’s secret. However, even if she joined the Student Council, she was still eyeing Ash’s sperm. Which gave him a headache just thinking about it.

"But as long as you simply nod you will immediately have a girlfriend… No? I never thought that you would actually overtake me by becoming the first..."

Raymond clenched his teeth and showed signs of not backing down.

"It can’t be... In my opinion… Jessica doesn’t really like me. I always felt that she only wants to bear my child more. It is hard to feel happy being liked by girls this way."

"You sure? When she was the SKFC’s president you may be right. But for now, I think, it is no longer the same."

Raymond’s objection puzzled Ash.

"What do you mean?"

"It means that… She now really loves you! I guess that it is because you saved the beauty as a hero in her dreams would. Even if she really now loves you… Can you still not accept it?"

"Err... I have never liked Jessica. Since I don’t like her, and yet if I'm going to date her, I don’t feel doing something like that is right."

"Then, otherwise, who do you really like?"

Raymond revealed an unusually serious expression and stared at Ash. It seems that he seriously wanted to know the answer himself.

"Me? About that... I'm not really sure myself."

Although Ash dully answered, the next moment, the memory of his first kiss crossed his mind.

His unexpected kiss with Eco. Her tender lips and her warm tongue... Just by recalling it made his heart race. This was what Ash cannot deny.

But that was just an accident. At the time Eco had just eaten an Ansal sweet. She was only drunk and confused. She must have had not even remembered her actions.

"Anything wrong? Why are you blushing?"

Raymond curiously asked.

"No. Nothing!"

Ash quickly shook his head and began to seriously wash his clothes.

===Part 4===
On the way back to the dormitory, after having finished washing the sheets, Raymond unexpectedly asked a question.

"Speaking of the month of Gemini… We have to talk about the Selective Training Camp. The names for those who are able to participate are going to be announced soon, right?"

"Ahh. I heard that it is likely to be announced at today’s assembly."

Raymond was surprised.

"What… Even you don’t know about it? I thought the student council’s members had already received a notice regarding it!"

"The participant list is treated as confidential. Even for regular student council members. It seems that only the president, Rebecca, has received the list of names."

"Is it......? Well, anyway, this has nothing to do with us."

Ash could only smile after hearing what Raymond said.

The Selective Training Camp – was actually an annual intensive training camp organized by the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy during the month of Gemini.

But only fifty students, who excelled in their results, were eligible to participate. Actual Combat, written answers, attitudes and etc... The candidates had to excel in all aspects, in order to be selected.

It was considered a very honorable thing to be selected by the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Though Ash looked forward to the camp, but...... Even though he was now a member of the student council, he still could not quickly change his image as the ‘Number One Problem Child In The Academy’.

Raymond was right. Ash simply did not expect that either of them had a chance to be favored.

===Part 5===
The school's students were assembled in the hall for the first period in the morning.

The school had also announced the change of seasonal uniforms on the same day as the arrival of the month of Gemini. Raymond, and many others, were delightfully surprised by being able to see the girls in their lighter clothes. But for Ash… It was the beginning of a worrisome, self conscious, period.

Ash’s left hand was engraved with the dragons' contract - Seikoku.

Generally. The size of the Seikoku would not be any larger than the size of a palm. But, somehow, Ash's Seikoku was far larger than the normal ones.

The large area it covered spanned his whole left arm. Ash had decided, from the bottom of his heart, to hate that shocking pattern and had never liked to show it to others.

Actually, in the past, he was often ridiculed because of his unique Seikoku. Ash, who could no longer bear the others, had ultimately decided to cover his left hand’s Seikoku with bandages.

The problem was, once it changed to the short-sleeved summer uniform, another problem would be born from it. The bandages originally served the purpose of covering the Seikoku to prevent the others from being disgusted. But, once it was summer, those exposed bandages instead had been attracting attention. That was why the reason Ash hated seasonal changes... was understandable.

Before long the Chancellor made his appearance in front of the podium. Immediately the hall had become silent.

"Surely you must have been looking forward to it for a long time my students. I’ll immediately announce the list of participants eligible for the Selective Training Camp."

Ash personally felt there was a little nervousness in the air which was different from the usual school assemblies. For those who were like Ash that 'will-never-be-selected' naturally they were not particularly tense. However, for those students who harbored a slight hope, their palms were sweating with nervousness.

The chancellor, who was always friendly and cheerful, had put on a priest like serious expression.

"For those who are named, please answer loudly and come forward."

The chancellor moved his eyes downward to look at the name list.

"Advance course third grade. Rebecca Randall-san."

“Hai!” <ref>はい as in Yes</ref>

Rebecca coolly left the group of students from the highest grade and moved forward. The red hair looked as if it was blazing more than usual.

The chancellor read out the names of those selected one by one. The students from the higher grades consisted of most of the students. There were more than thirty people who were from the third and second grade of the advance course.

"Next is the advance class first year. Silvia Lautreamont fourth Princess."

“Hai!”

After she answered with an exceptionally brave voice, Silvia left the first grade group to stand on the podium in front. Her bright blond hair looked like a bright aura that only gods had.

"Hey! what are you mesmerizing about? Are you in love with her?"

Raymond casually whispered in Ash's ear.

"H-How could I be! She is a Princess!"

Ash quickly refuted. His cheeks were red hot.

"Haha. Of course I was kidding. Anyway. She is a flower on a high ridge."

Raymond who, had just laughed whole heartedly, suddenly became serious.

"That being said… The only boy Princess trusts is you."

“T-That is because we help each other in the student council? "

"Maybe you are the only one who thinks so?"

After Raymond gave an evil laugh their attention turned back to the podium

The chancellor continue naming.

"Advanced class first grade. Maximillian Russell-san.”

“Advanced class first grade. Jessica Valentine-san."

As the treasurer of the student council and at the same time also a friend of Ash, Max was chosen. Although it was a surprise that Jessica was also chosen, but Ash remembered, the comment that Rebecca gave her was "She is able to overcome any difficulty if she has the heart  to."

"- Next is the Basic class."

After a break, the chancellor flipped the name list over. By doing this, it was confirmed that Ash was not selected. Although he hadn't held any expectations at the start, but there was inevitably some regret. By having such feeling, Ash himself thought that was very extraordinary.

Because as his past self, he would not even be bothered.

"This year, there is only one student from the basic class selected. Third grade Lucca Sarlinen."

A foreign name came out from the chancellor’s mouth.

But the hall was silent. Lucca Sarlinen did not respond for any reason. Soon the students began to chatter amongst themselves.

Raymond, who was no exception, started to talk to Ash.

"It's hard to imagine that a serious girl like her is absent......"

"Do you know her?"

Raymond looked at Ash in astonishment.

"You are the weird one for not knowing her! Lucca Sarlinen is a celebrity seconded only by the ‘Scarlet Empress’ and ‘Ice Blue Princess’!"

The former refered to Rebecca and the latter was Silvia. Since she was below these two but it still meant that she was really famous.

"Is it?... Is she such an amazing student?"

"She is a genius for being the youngest ever to be appointed as a Dragner! Isn't that terrific enough?"

"Hold on. The one who held the record for being the youngest isn’t it Rebecca-san...?"

"The one who rewrote Rebecca onee-san’s record is no other than Lucca Sarlinen! Moreover. she is obviously the secretary from the student council! How come you don’t know her?"

Raymond obviously looked surprised.

"You can’t blame me… We never even met."

"You've never met each other... Is it true?"

Although Raymond was not yet satisfied, unfortunately they could no longer continue their private conversation. The chancellor who had received an explanation from the teachers continued to speak:

"Lucca Sarlinen-san is absent because of illness. Then finally -"

However, because a sudden burst of resentfulness swept the auditorium, the chancellor had failed to finish his words.

Ash looked around puzzled.

It appeared that some students were protesting against Lucca Sarlinen being selected.

"What is happening? It is just that she took her leave and is absent? What’s there to be angry about?"

Right after Ash asked Raymond, with a bitter face, replied:

"I heard that she was absent, not only from today's school assembly, for about three months. For someone who is absent for so long, to be selected, it is not a wonder for some people to get angry."

"Why has she been absent for three months? Is She injured or sick?"

"...the rumors might be true."

Raymond actually said something with deep meaning… Which made Ash curious.

"What rumors-?"

At this time the chancellor, who was famous for his gentleness, spoke with his rarely used command voice:

"Silence! It is true that Lucca-san has been absent for a long time. But she had left good results. Her total results topped the fifth so we selected Lucca-san."

The chancellor's righteous explanations instantly calmed down the waves of protestation.

"So then. I’ll finally announce the 'Specially Recommended' student. The Specially Recommended Student System was only adopted this year. It is evaluated by the student council president and not by the staff. Rebecca-san this student is picked personally by you so please take my place and announce his name."

“Hai.”

Rebecca coolly walked up to the podium.

"As you have just heard, based on the Specially Recommended System, I have selected one student for the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy's Selective Training Camp to be held at the Allonnes lakeside."

Rebecca suddenly stopped after saying that. A terrible suspenseful silence enveloped the hall.

Everyone present was nervous… Quietly waiting for Rebecca to announce the name.

"That student is. Advance class first grade. Ash Blake."

"Bedwetter ~A.S.B. 1365.6~ is closed"

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi:Volume 3 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Prologue

2014-02-14T06:13:57Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases. Sentence reconstruction.

==Prologue==
Lautreamont Knight Country, people called it the country of Dragon Breeders.

To the north was the Zepharos Empire, while to the south was the Chevron Kingdom.

Sandwiched between the two major powers, a small country with a population of no more than five million, had a special academy.

Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Educating and guiding teenage boys and girls who formed a contract with dragons. -- An academy for Dragon Breeders.

===Part 1===
“So. Can you start working tomorrow? Our restaurant is having a headache with the lack of manpower!”

Anya with a smile replied to the manager:

“Alright! I’ll be in your care!”

This place is the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy’s campus student’s restaurant La Tene’s office.

Recently Anya had visited, the academy-town, Ansarivan's employment agencies. When she found out that La Tene is a strategic place to gather information she instantly made up her mind that the job is hers.

''To infiltrate the Dragon Riding Academy and investigate the student named Ash Blake''- This is her secret objective.

The manager who was responsible for the interview was an extremely kind lady and was always smiling. There wasn't even a hint that she suspected Anya.

''-Ahh. The Knight country’s citizens are too naive.''

Anya was putting on a smile that she had practiced numerous times in front of the mirror. At the same time, she was trying to figure out her next move.

Recently. Anya’s performance had been low.

She thought that meeting Ash Blake was the cause of it.

If he was an enemy… She could have solved the situation with her usual cold blooded method. But Anya was saved by him twice. Which gave her shame.

The first time was their first meeting in the depths of the forest as Ash had saved Anya from the landslide. As fate would have it the person, who Ash was trying to save, was actually a someone who would attempt an unprovoked attack. Or even assassinate him......

The second time happened during the incident at St. Valeria's church. Anya unluckily got caught in the mess and ended up as hostage. In the end the person, who again rescued her, was Ash.

Or perhaps it was a blessing in disguise. Anya, who was only a bystander in the incident, accidentally found out the name of her possible future enemy; Ash Blake.

By the way… The Avdocha who was arrested and sent to prison by the authorities was but a ‘counterfeit who pretended to be Avdocha’.

Anya agreed with this statement but yet she still suspects something.

The female terrorist who occupied the church sure looked like a young child and was a total different person from the portrait in the wanted poster.

Also. Her body was very petite. It was hard to believe that, in such a short time, she could be Avdocha. However, though she looked so young she could be bullied, the aura that this female terrorist emitted was nothing but genuine...

On the other hand. About Ash Blake, who had been an active negotiator at the time, the authorities had mentioned nothing about him. The information appears to have been controlled.

Authorities must have been taking this action based on their hidden intention to prevent Ash Blake's name from being publicized.

Indeed. Ash Blake was suspicious in many aspects.

''-No matter what kind of secrets he is hiding...... I will not allow anyone to interfere with Milgauss-sama. I swear I will investigate this thoroughly and grab him by his weak point!''

Luckily. Milgauss is still in his country <ref>Zepharos his homeland?</ref> and had not yet returned. The strategy to ambush in the school grounds is Anya’s own idea alone.

"...... Anya? Anything?"

"Nyaa!?"

After she found that the manager is staring at her face Anya came out with a weird sound. <ref>Original word is something like wonderful
sound but it do means strange</ref>

"No. sorry. I'm fine......"

It is embarrassing to daze off, and to make it worse, in the middle of an interview. Anya, like she wanted to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, asks a question:

"That, again...... Tenchou, <ref>店長manager. Could mean the shop owner. I put it so because of the way she speaks.</ref> you just said that the shop is lacking man power, can I know the reason why?"

"Anya, you looked like an outsider who is new to here, no wonder you don’t know. Actually, the Selective Training Camp is about to start."

"Selective Training Camp ......?"

"That's a traditional training event that will be held at the Allonnes lakeside every year. Only fifty students, who achieved good results, are eligible to participate."

"Does this have anything to do with the shops lack of manpower ......?"

"We must send several staff members there to be in charge of their meals which is also part of the tradition. Having said that. We also cannot simply just close down this shop."

"In another words, during the Selective Training Camp, La Tene faces trouble because you have to continue your business as usual. On the other hand someone has to be sent to the lakeside campsite."

"Tsk... To make it worse… There are three people who resigned at the same time, during this hectic period, it was unfortunate. And. It happens that the reasons for their resignation was to get married...... Damn. They must be kidding me!"

''Bang!'' - The manager suddenly hit the table top heavily with her fist.

"You all should have already known that this period is the busiest time of the store! Before leaving… They even told me something like ‘Tenchou… You should look for your Mr. Right soon'...? Ain’t that Princess Veronica is also single? My life is the same! we live for our job!"

Even though she initially thought she was a gentle and pure person, it seems that she had accumulated a lot of pressure inside her heart. Anya was speechless.

"Oops, I'm sorry, I had shown my embarrassing side. Hehe......"

After expressing herself the manager finally came back to her senses and she tried to use an unnatural laugh to calm down the atmosphere.

"Anya."

"W-What's the matter?"

"Anya, you still don’t have a boyfriend, right? Ah, but there is always a person you admire, right? As a manager, I must ask you clearly regarding this. After all..... Getting carried away by love and abandoned your work without any reasons...... I have seen many cases like this."

The manager had spoke a quite far-fetched reason, then, she suddenly leaned forward.

"Admire...... someone?"

At this moment, in Anya’s mind emerges a lonely image of the delightful Milgauss. – She had initially expected this so she is totally suprised that the one she actually thought about, heroically standing in his blue Ark… was Ash Blake!

''"What! Why would I think about that guy's face...!"''

Anya kept on desperately banging her head with her fist, to remove Ash’s image from her mind.

"... Anya?"

Suddenly, back to her senses, only then, she finds out that the manager is watching her with a surprised expression.

"S-Sorry! I'm fine!"

Her cheeks become so hot that Anya wanted to immediately escape from this place but she can’t afford to do that...

The manager just said herself.

''-Only fifty students with good results can participate in the selective training camp.''

That being the case. Ash Blake should be able to participate in it. No. It should be he will definitely participate. Anyhow… He is the hero who saved Ansarivan.

"That. Tenchou!"

Anya held her fist in both hands and suddenly stood up.

"Please be sure to send me to the training camp as a catering staff!"

The manager at once became stunned but then smiled.

"Ara, is that true? Because the work is very hard and many girls reject it!"

"No problem. Please trust me!"

Anya firmly declares to the manager. But the manager remains in silence.

She just stared at Anya.

"That... Tenchou? Anything wrong?"

"Y~an! How can you be so cute… Anya!"

The manager immediately leaps toward Anya. So suddenly that even Anya, who possesses extraordinary skills, cannot manage to respond in time.

Although her breasts are big and soft, which bring peace to the mind for a short moment, but...

“Muuu…”

Anya, whose whole face is buried deep within them, is suddenly suffocating.

"Yes! I have something I hope you will accept it."

The manager suddenly release Anya and move to the locker by the wall.

"... What?"

Anya breath greedily and at the same time look at the manager's back . The manager was humming while rummaging the locker.

After a long wait... The manager came back smiling.

"This is your uniform, I think it should fit you well."

Any looked puzzled when she was forced to accept the uniform. After spreading it out, it's what's commonly know as' maid attire'. The pure white apron is full of frills.

"Excuse me ... this is?"

"It is the waitress uniforms. Ain’t it cute?"

"P-Please wait a moment!"

Anya looked panicked. Regardless of how she thinks… This attire is way off her style.

"I applied for a infield job such as washing, handling the shipment..."

"To let you work infield would not be fair for you. Who asked you to be this cute! Anya must take the outfield job!"

“B-But…”

"To be prudent. Do you want to try wearing it?"

"That... If I may. I want a relatively simple uniform..."

Anya lowered down her head, shyly stated her demands.

"How can you be such closed minded? I give up."

However, just the very next moment, the manager’s eyes shined.

"If that being the case. I’ll help you to do it right!"

"Noooooo! Ah... Ayannn! Where are you touching-"

===Part 2===
Year 1265 of the A.S.B Calendar<ref>The original meaning is something like "After Saint's Birth" calendar, to match A.D./Anno Domini (latin for "In the year of the Lord."). The Saint mentioned being St Rosa Maria (as mentioned in v2c4) the founder of what seems to be the official religion of the Knight's Country. </ref>, the month of Gemini.

There are two more weeks before the annual traditional event of the Ansarivan’s Dragon Riding Academy-

La Tene~A.S.B 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4

2014-02-13T21:33:31Z

Aoi uchuu:

==Chapter 4 - Avdocha the Convicted==
===Part 1===
Early in the morning. Ash put on his uniform and rushed out of magicship Silvanus straight to school.

Since he has obtained Veronica’s permission last night the guards in charge did not stop Ash.

On the way there Ash did not encounter Captain Glenn. Of course… Ash also simply did not want to meet him.

By quickly running up the stairs he finally arrived at the Student’s Council’s office.

"I’m entering."

He openes the door without hesitation and instantly… An object, like a cannon, flew into his arms.

"Oh! ......Eco?"

Eco’s body is soft.

Yesterday she probably went to Rebecca's room to stay for the night. He smells a sweet scent. One that that will not make you tired of it and yet will also make you feel refreshed.

"Something wrong?"

Eco’s attitude made Ash feel troubled. That feeling is like that of a pet and its owner, that have been separated for a long time, and it leaped at its owner when they were reunited.

The thing that he doesn't understand is… Does Eco have those kind of feelings? They didn’t see each other for only one night... And yet. Her personality has become so docile?

"It's annoying that you are so slow…..."

Eco buries her face in Ash’s chest and is reluctant to let go. Not only did she not let go there are also signs that she is hugging him a lot more tightly. The heat from her is transferring to Ash's body.

If it's only just that… Then he can let it be. Though, right after that thought, Eco grabbed Ash’s tie and pulled him right into the front of her face.

"S-Slow down. Wait... My neck is going to break ...!"

Ash quickly put his finger into the gap between tie and neck which barely enables him to breathe. At least he is now free from the danger of suffocating.

What is wrong with Eco so early in the morning?

Her cheeks are bright pink and her eyes are watery.

Ash is struggling but Eco continues to attack.

"Huff......"

After making the cute sound… Eco’s feet are wrapping around his leg.

Her legs, in knee socks, slid in between Ash thighs. The moment her soft thigh came into contact with his crotch his whole body shivers.

"No...... My body is so hot... I can’t stand it any longer." Eco gasped.

As she kept tugging Ash’s tie while lifting up her body.

Her half opened lips moving towards Ash’s cheek -

"Uwaa!"

Extending her tongue she gently licked Ash’s cheek. Like a dragon who wants to be spoiled by its master.

"...... Ah?"

At this moment… Ash spotted something – from Eco's mouth there comes a rose like smell.

"You...... Show me the inside!"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p004-005.jpg|thumb|'' "Is this...... alright!" '']]

"Is this......alright?" Eco says after she jumps down.

The usual Eco would ignore Ash’s order. This morning, however, it is as if she is now a different person. Her cheeks are getting redder and she stares at Ash’s face.

Being flirted with by her eyes… Ash saw Eco actually gently lift her miniskirt.

"... Huh?" Obviously Eco was confused about what 'inside' meant.

For the moment. Ash just couldn't understand what was happening right in front of him.

"You...!"

Ash almost falls backwards.

The thing clinging to Eco’s pure white skin almost caused his awareness to be swept away. That underwear, embellished with a lot of laces, was designed for adults!

Suddenly he came back to his senses… Ash obstinately holds Eco’s hands.

"What are you doing you fool! I'm not talking about the skirt. It's what's inside your mouth!"

"Umm... I know..."

Eco with a flushed face opens her mouth halfway.

Behind her pearl white teeth, a pink tongue can be seen.

"So this stuff is the culprit!"

On Eco’s tongue was a piece of round candy.

A strong Ansal smell went into his nostrils.

Even though Ansals are harmless to humans it brings a strong intoxicating effect to the dragons. Like drinking alcohol is for humans… Ansal’s smell brings pleasure to dragons.

The problem is that Eco is only a young dragon. Even with only a small amount of Ansal the result it brings is hard to predict.

"Come on. Quickly spit it out!"

"Nn....”

Eco exhaled a mouthful of heat, and firmly grasped Ash’s tie.

Don’t take Eco as just a petite girl as her strength is still like a dragon.

Ash, unable to do anything, can only let her pull him. - Eco, with Ash currently immobilized and his mouth half-opened, met it with her lips.

At the same time, Eco’s tongue breaks past the barrier.

"...!"

The two sticky and slippery tongues tangled.

The unimaginable shock makes Ash’s mind go blank and he is transfixed in place.

"Tee hee..."

Eco revealed a devil like smiled and slowly averted her face. During that time the candy has rolled into Ash’s mouth.

The mouth-fed candy has melted into half of its original volume, Eco’s body temperature still remains on the candy.

Ash was entirely entranced.

"You… Just now..."

His face is hot as if flame is going to burst out from it.

At the start Ash was concentrating too much on the mouth-fed candy. That is why only until now, Ash found their lips were sticking tightly together.

According to that… Wasn't that his and Eco’s first kiss?

"Nn....”

Suddenly, like a puppet whose string was broken, Eco fell limp.

She buried her face in Ash’s arms and fell into a deep sleep. Seems like the drunken Eco has finally fallen asleep.

"Really... She only knows how to give people headaches."

Just as Ash breathed a sigh of relief-

"..... In this position, between a human and a dragon, your behavior just does not sound healthy."

"Uwaaa!"

Hearing a surprisingly calm voice, Ash was shocked.

''- Glup!''

The candy in his mouth is accidentally swallowed.

"....Rebecca! Since when have you been here?"

Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest as she stood in the doorway. Her face is wearing a snappish smile
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p169.jpg|thumb|Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest as she stood in the doorway. Her face is wearing a snappish smile.]]

"Do you even need to ask? Of course… When Eco ran out of the room."

"Isn’t it that you were here from the beginning to end? Why did you stand on the side-lines and not come to my aid!"

"Well that scene was very exciting! Oh, Ash, by the way, that underwear Eco is wearing belongs to me."

"Yikes...!"

After hearing that… Ash cannot help but think about Eco’s exposed underwear.

Those laces flooded his whole mind, the material should be silk, right? He remembers the top has a unique gloss. It turns out that Rebecca usually wears those kind of underwear... After getting lost in his imagination Ash returns to his senses.

"Hey! That's not the point! I would like to know why Eco’s mouth was stuffed with that candy."

"Ahh. You mean that? That is my, self-prepared, personal snack. When she saw me licking it, on my palm, Eco came and begged for one. When I saw her eager face… How could I heartlessly refuse? "

"Rebecca, even when you knew the Ansal herb will have a negative effect on Eco, why did you continue to let her eat it?"

"Huu? ... I do not understand what you mean by that."

Rebecca exposed a playful smile and hid inside her room.

===Part 2===
Rebecca looked at the faces of all those who were present.

"Then let the meeting begin. Silvia will not be present for today’s meeting... So are there only three people left?"

She was correct. Right now. The ones who are sitting around the table are Rebecca, Max and Ash. The trio. By the way… Eco is lying on the couch.

The Vice president and the secretary still seem like they don't intend to attend this morning either.

"Right... Doesn’t it feel a little lonely?”

After Ash stated this Rebecca looked at him ridiculously.

"Any problem with it Ash? Are you so lonely when Silvia is not here? Is Rebecca onee-san not enough to satisfy you?"

"How could I dare to think so?!!"

Ash was too nervous to know what to do next. Max, right beside him, was also shocked but he interrupts:

"President. We do not have time. Please do not tease Ash anymore and quickly begin the meeting."

"Hmm. You’re right. Every time I see Ash… I just want to make fun of him."

Rebecca, with a bitter smile, returns back to the topic.

"As you have heard, Princess Veronica's condolence trip is going to be held this afternoon. Actually... We must represent the academy’s students by accompanying the Princess."

Ash senses something bad.

"The people who are going to accompany the Princess must be Max, Ash, Eco and I. This is Princess Veronica’s orders. We do not have the right to refuse."

Just like what he sensed… His bad feeling was correct.

"Princess Veronica has many enemies. If someone wants to assassinate the Princess they certainly will not miss this great opportunity. Even though there are the seven escorts, who are in charge of the security, we still should not neglect precautionary measures. We, as mere Dragner's, must also be mentally prepared to be able to protect the Princess when there is danger."

"Please. May I ask ..."

Ash timidly raised his hand.

"Is there a problem Ash?"

“Rebecca-san. You're not a 'mere' but a dignified Ark-Dragner. Max, also, is an outstanding Dragner but I'm just a humble breeder.”

"What nonsense are you talking about? Didn’t you also have the famous title 'Silver Knight'?"

"... That's not the kind of title I want. Even if you give it to me for free."

"But I think that it is suitable for you. Back to the topic... The next thing is the main point."

After changing the topic… Rebecca showed a serious expression and passed the information in her hands to Ash and Max.

That is commonly known as a 'Wanted Poster'.

The entire sheet of paper is full of the details of the criminal’s characteristics and looks.

The reward offered actually reaches up to one million Eccles<ref>The currency in this story. From a town in UK.</ref>. Compared to a normal reward this amount is excessively large.

"We received some information from a certain party that 'Avdocha the Convicted' has infiltrated Ansarivan. Everyone please be very careful."

===Part 3===
The revival operations are well underway. The noise and hustle and bustle of construction sounded off in St Durham’s Square one after another.

The sound of the roaring man supervisor.

The sturdy frame operator’s loud cry.

The knocking sounds of the hammers.

The Necromancia’s attacks had happened a full two weeks ago.

The Square had been razed to ruins and yet today the revival operation was going on smoothly.

Magicship Silvanus landed slowly from above the square.

Right after she safely alighted from the magicship… Veronica immediately, with a loud voice, announced to the public:

"Dear countrymen! Thank you for your hard work!"

On recognizing the heroic Veronica… The scene is suddenly full of cheers.

"Wow. It's the Princess Veronica Her Royal Highness!"

"To even think that Her Royal Highness will actually come to a place like this..."

"That armour really looks valiant!"

Every worker stops doing their work as they are all moved and full of tears. However. Veronica just stared at them fiercely.

"Who allowed you to rest?! Why are you bothering with my existence. Immediately continue with your work!"

At Veronica's loud voice even the earth would shake! Furthermore. The Asias that were brought to the construction site were also shivering.

"Yes. Princess!"

Though all the workers are burly, self-confident and brawny they now, all of them, felt particularly vulnerable and hurried to resume their own work.

The sense was more like a strict supervisor who came rather than a condolence visit. Ash, standing beside Veronica, cannot help but laugh bitterly.

Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco, the four of them followed along with the arrangements made in the meeting this early morning. They are accompanying Veronica as the student representatives.

"Hmm... There is something strange."

Eco from the start is looking around aimlessly.

Did she find out something unusual using her dragon’s intuition? If it is so, the situation they are in will be a serious one, it is most likely an enemy of Veronica.

"Eco? Is there anything suspicious?"

Ash, with a nervous voice, asks Eco but she then revealed an extremely unhappy expression.

"The crepe stall is gone."

"... Hu?"

"I said. I can’t find the stall selling crepes!"

Ash is dumbstruck. What Eco likes to eat most is none-other than the crepes sold in the stall selling crepes in St Durham Square.

"You tell me... What Crepe seller will do business in this construction site?"

"Wuhu<ref>Whining sound.</ref>...... My crepes..."

Eco is so disappointed that she showed a dejected expression. There are tears in her eyes whirling.

"Really.. I can’t stand you any longer. The owner must have moved his stall to some other part of the streets. Later we will look for it together… Alright?"

"Really?"

Once she had heard this… Eco immediately smiled dazzlingly.

"...!"

Her smile is like a full bloom rose of which Ash cannot help but stare at deeply.

"Something wrong?" Eco asked when noticing Ash's stare.

Right after Eco confusedly asked… Only then did Ash come back to his senses and, with an pumped up attitude, he cleared his throat.

"No. Nothing......"

In short. His bribery has been successful and Eco will, temporarily, quiet down. After all, he is now playing the role of Veronica’s guard with a heavy responsibility. Just in case this job was messed up by Eco, it would be hard for him to make sure that his head stays on his neck. Using crepes in exchange for the safety of his head… This price is nothing.

"Hmm. Using the strength of an Asia? A breeder who chooses to be a civil engineer is really rare."

"Y- Yes. I’m just lucky!"

At the same time, as Ash is trying to keep Eco calmed down, Veronica’s condolence trip is also being carried out smoothly.

Apart from the square the surrounding buildings have also been damaged by the Necromancia. Which is why many carpenters are working there right now.

The carpenter Veronica is talking to seems to be a breeder and at the side an Asia can be seen pulling a trolley.

When facing Veronica the fierce looking carpenter, due to excessive fear, looked very nervous. This scene is really amusing.

Looking at that the kind of laid-back scene Ash suddenly remembered the name that Rebecca brought up at the morning meeting.

--‘Avdocha the Convicted'

According to the report; She has the blood of a Tantalos. From a young age she has been doing guerrilla activities in the mountains. Later on she spread out from the mountains and was involved in terrorist attacks across the continent. She is very famous for her anti-establishment activity.

But five years ago, in the capital City of Fontaine, after Veronica’s assassination ended in failure… She was never seen again.

Some reports stated that such an activist is likely to stage a comeback for Veronica. Of course. The credibility of those reports are yet to be verified but still they must be prepared for the worst.

"Hey. Eco."

Ash gathered his nerve and whispered in Eco’s ears.

"... What’s the problem?"

"In case that I ran into a dangerous situation… Could you make me the Ark?"

"Well. Do you even want that kind of patch up work? I don’t mind, but, there will be conditions-"

"Alright, alright, no matter how many crepes you want to eat... I’ll buy them for you."

''Except for the ansal flavor crepes...'' Ash, in his heart, silently added just as the nearby church bell rang.

That's the bell to indicate one o’clock in the afternoon.

"It is already this late...?"

Listening to the solemn bell… Silvia's face suddenly emerges in Ash's mind.

The building around St Durham Square has more than one church.

At this time Silvia should be complying with Veronica's command by offering her prayers in the St Valeria’s church for repentance.

Just when Ash takes Silvia’s feelings into account, and his mood was subsequently depressed, something happened.

''-Boom!''

Suddenly. At the other end of the square. The sound of an explosion can be heard.

"W-What happened?"

Ash, surprised, looked at the other end of the square.

A thick black smoke is seen growing into the sky.

"It can’t be ...!"

The worst thought emerges in Ash mind.

The location where the black smoke emerges is St Valeria’s clock tower.

At the same time the explosion occurred the public, gathered in the square, started to scream and the crowded site degraded into a mess.

After all only a few days ago they were subjected to the Necromancia’s attack and, because of that, the present reaction of many people are particularly extreme.

“-Princess please return to Silvanus.”

At this time. Glenn’s voice is heard.

"You’re right." Said Veronica without blinking an eye.

As she just calmly nodded.

Ash who could not help but angrily interrupt said:

"Didn’t you see that church? Princess may be right inside there -"

However. Veronica coldly interrupts Ash:

"Don’t worry. From now on, I declare from this moment, Silvanus will become the strategic headquarters of this Operation. All of you… Please return together."

Even when her biological sister may be caught up in the bombings… Veronica’s calm attitude really pissed people off.

===Part 4===
Silvia arrived at the St Valeria’s Church.

Under Veronica’s order she did not even bring her maid Cosette with her.

St Valeria’s statue was positioned on the altar.

St Valeria is one of the Twelve Apostles who served St Rosa Maria.

In the denomination of Rosa Maria's bible St Valeria, is portrayed as a woman full of compassion and also, is the protector of law.

In addition to Silvia, there are also many people who come to the church. But most of them look like tourists. Those who are like Silvia, who have their own troubles, are the minority.

“St Valeria. Please forgive my imprudent actions."

Silvia knelt in front of the altar and began to pray.

"St Valeria’s..."

At this time, someone else right beside Silvia is non-stop praying.

That voice feels very familiar.

"Please bless me so that I will get pregnant with 'Silver Knight'-sama’s child......"

"What are you praying for?!!"

"Kyaa!"

''THUND''. That person is so shocked by the other roaring voice that she screamed and fell backwards.

Silvia carefully looked at her face.

"...I knew that it was you. Jessica Valentine!"

Jessica stood up straight and stares back at Silvia.

"Oops. Look at you… You're not with the Princess? I thought you were to accompany Princess Veronica for her condolence trip today."

"Err... Sorry to tell you that I did not accompany her!"

"Y- You. What are you getting angry about?"

"Give me a break! That is not the point… How come you're here?"

Jessica obviously does not understand the reason Silvia is so angry.

"Well. I just wanted to beg St Valeria to bless me for an easy childbirth..."

"St Valeria is a protector of law! You have looked for the wrong person! "

"Hmm, I’m not like the rest, I won’t even bother this small detail."

"What type of small detail is this?”

"Hm... If you keep on clinging to petty things like this… You will never be on equal footing with the Princess!"

Silvia, whose weakness is found out, suddenly became furious.

“What did you say? Outsiders like you will never understand!"

“Obvious at a glance- There is too much difference in both of your open-mindedness."

"Ugh! How shameless are you... To talk about someone else pain!"

"Oops. It is your pain? Oh… As a royal you are far behind Veronica-sama in your open-mindedness and as a Dragner your strength is far less than 'Silver Knight'-sama; I advise you to learn how to be a woman and you can take this noble’s daughter as an example."

"What did you say......?"

Silvia couldn’t bear with it any longer and her rational thinking had snapped. She felt that what Jessica implied was as if she is trying to persuade her to hurriedly marry Glenn. Although logically it is impossible for Jessica to know of her arranged marriage with Glenn but Silvia can’t care about the details so much.

"Ha! A mere Randall family’s servant even has the nerve to ask me to take her as an example? Even my toes are laughing!"

Jessica's face turns from red to white and back to red.

"Can it be Rebecca had told you...?"

"Don’t worry, under the president’s order, I will not spread this to the public. But. I would like to advise you to have a little restraint and stop falsifying your status."

Jessica lips tremble, she fiercely glared at Silvia.

"Then I’ll ask you... Can you can guarantee that your actions are never related to falsehood?"

"I-I..."

Silvia is also afraid that someone will see through her timid side which is why she is always pretending to be strong. As one of the Lautreamont Knight Country’s Princess' she is trying her hardest to play the ideal image of ‘This is what a princess should do’.

Isn't such behavior also taken as falsehood?

"Oops. Could it be that I hit the bull’s eye?"

"N-No. That's not it...”

Just while Silvia intends to voice a rebuttal-

''-Boom!''

The sound of explosion came from above.

The floor shook because of the impact as dust, sands and stones fall from the ceiling.

Judging from this evidence… There seems to have been an explosion upstairs.

"Kyaa!"

Silvia is so frightened she inadvertently clings to Jessica.

Maybe Jessica is equally caught up in the panic and she wraps her arms around Silvia and hugged her hard.

Silvia and Jessica’s screams are like a trigger which make the other visitors cry.

It is only one explosion but, from the original sacred atmosphere of the Church, it has instantly turned into a living hell.

At this time… A condescending shadow appeared.

"Who’s that person?"

Silvia's eyes widened.

Black hair and eyes, which were full of evil, glimmered.

Under the high degree of exposure folk costume, a nearly tanned colored skin can be seen.

The woman, like in a drama, began to speak:

"‘Blame the sin, rather than the sinner!’ What a joke. The fragile mind of a human is the root of all evil and all who are sinners will never escape death!"

''WHACK!'' The woman waved a toss of the whip that was in her hand-

"I shall be called 'Avdocha the Convicted’!" <ref>In this sentence she speak in an high and mighty form. It is very hard to translate so the simple form will be I am 'Avdocha the Convicted’.</ref>

Silvia became dumbstruck.

She remembers that name.

"How come... This person is 'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Silvia knew the existence of this anti-establishment activist. Long ago… She had also seen her 'wanted order' several times.

Her reward amount is up to one million Eccles.

However, the woman in front of her not only has face of a child, a petite body, and a childlike appearance which caused others not to believe she is a battle-hardened terrorist. This is totally different from the image in the wanted poster.

But the woman with a calm expression looks at the visitor.

Even when her body is petite she is still able to look down from up high.

That is because she was standing on the back of a basilisk.

Under the sight of the big rolling eyes that only a basilisk has-

''"Eek...!"''

Silvia and Jessica trembled.

The extreme fear causes them to not release each other’s hands.

--- Basilisk

Even though they bear a striking resemblance to lizards, their size is nowhere near a lizard. Although they are well known as a close relatives of an Asia, but judging from their body, there is not even a slightest hint that they have a Dragon's intellect.

To tame such monster after capturing it and ride it like a horse, no matter what, it will never be done by an ordinary person.

So the only explanation is… The woman in front is none-other than 'Avdocha the Convicted’-

"From now on, you are all hostages! Just don’t act rashly and I will not take your life! On the other hand... If someone dares to fight back… Don’t blame me if we use you to feed him!"

Followed by Avdocha’s order the basilisk made an earth-shattering roar.

===Part 5===
The atmosphere of the airship Silvanus’s navigation room was very tense.

The crew, led by the helmsman, are at their posts; They were ready to take off at any time.

"Huhu... It is hard even for me to tolerate this… Glenn."

Veronica who is smiling while sitting on the captain seat said.

"Yes. Veronica-sama."

Glenn seriously nodded in agreement.

Apart from the escort’s captain Glenn who is by Veronica’s side, the other six escorts are on their dragons responsible for the protection of Silvanus.

Under Veronica’s order Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco - the members of the student’s council - also gathered in the navigation room.

"Hey.... Why can you be so calm? The church that Princess is in was attacked!"

Ash, unable to restrain his emotions, questioned.

Veronica on the captain’s seat comfortably cross her legs and teased;

"You're too inexperienced Ash. During the Necromancia’s attack, were your emotions this unstable? If it is so, then you were just lucky the last time- you'd better give some deep thought about it or else you cannot guarantee your own life."

"What did you say?"

"Veronica-sama!"

At this moment, the communication sergeant interrupted Ash while looking back at Veronica.

"There is a signal from St Valeria’s Church!"

Beside the communication sergeant’s hand the bright dragon crystal, next to the magic communicator, is shining.

"Connect to it."

"Understood!"

The magic communicator continued to flash for a while then a projection appeared in mid-air.

"-!"

Ash gasped. Even though he knew that this is a type of oracle he had never seen such method. The technology must have been imported from the Empire.

Although there is a lot of static noise the scene shown on the screen looks like the interior of the St Valeria’s church. – St Valeria’s statue set on the altar statue proves this fact.

The only thing is, the screen didn’t show the hostages. Of course, that does not rule out that Silvia could have been abducted.... Which made Ash anxiously clench his fists.

At this moment… The projection screen suddenly shows a woman's face.

『 "I shall be called 'Avdocha the Convicted’. Wait, since we are already familiar with each other, I don’t need to announce my name… Right Veronica?"<ref>This is also spoken in an high and mighty form.</ref>』

"You're right. So could you quickly tell me what your demand is?"

Veronica shows the calm demeanor of a royal family.

"She is...'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Ash's eyes widen and he turns speechless.

Seeing her childlike face Rebecca, Max and Eco seem to feel the same as Ash. All of their faces looked stunned and skeptical.

Because between her looks and the arrest warrant they received earlier… They are apparently two completely different characters.

The portrait in the arrest warrant looks like a 24-year-old with a sharp look like a she-leopard. Which gave the feeling of a veteran guerrilla soldier......

『 "I’ll let you have a look at this first!"』

The screen suddenly focuses at another person’s body.

The altar of the Rosa Maria’s religion is magnificently decorated with its symbolic totem wing like crucifix. However, there is a person tied to the winged cross.

Ash and the others turn speechless and not just because of Avdocha’s fetishes.

"Jessica...?"

Rebecca who knew her since childhood muttered blankly.

She is not wrong. The one tied on the winged cross is the president of SKFC-Jessica Valentine. Of all people. Evidently she seems to have inadvertently become a hostage.

"That’s t-too much!"

Ash's lips are trembling.

Jessica is actually only wearing her underwear.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p190.jpg|thumb|''- The Head of Valkyrie!'']]

Apart from her underwear and knee socks the rest of her clothing was mercilessly stripped away.

The humiliated Jessica is desperately struggling to hold back her tears.

Not only that. There are also squiggles on top her bare belly that reads:

''- The Head of Valkyrie!''

"That. Is that blood text...?"

"No. that does not look like blood. It should be something like lipstick.”

Rebecca swept away Ash’s worry.

"Hmm... To even use hostages as a meat shield to make me offer my head. She is really an insatiable woman." Veronica calmly remarks.

Even after witnessing Jessica’s inhumane treatment, Veronica is still easy going.

At this time, the screen slowly moves downwards, and the altar is shown.

"...What is that?"

Ash frowns.

Around the altar, there are black objects that give the impression of a ''"machine"''. Although it is an extremely strange and rarely seen thing they are filled with a dangerous atmosphere that can never be found coming from equipment within the church.

From the screen Avdocha’s voice is heard again:

『 "As you can see we have a bomb set up in the church. This is an Empire made mechanical bomb. Once detonated, the church will immediately be blown to pieces. Also. I am a person who has no patience. Every time the bell rings. I’ll kill a hostage."』

"What did you say...?!"

Ash excitedly clenches his fists.

She is threatening that every hour there will be someone who will lose their life.

Until the next time the bell rings… There is only around fifty minutes.

『 "Hehe... I can’t wait to see your head when it is off your neck Veronica."』

Once finished with these words the communication was terminated.

It seems that Avdocha stopped it herself.

"Your Highness. What should we do now?"

Rebecca asked, but a sneer is shown on Veronica’s mouth.

The coldness of her sneer, caused Ash’s hair to stand up straight.

"I’ll never compromise with terrorists. If we face an emergency situation we’ll use the main canon of Silvanus to blow up the whole church."

"What ..."

After hearing this emotionless declaration Ash felt as if he is punched from the back of his head.

Even when she knew that Silvia may also be inside the church. But...

"You are really...!"

Ash finally understands the reason Veronica is given the title 'Ironblood Valkyrie'.

===Part 6===
The time is moved slightly backwards---

Nearly a hundred worshipers were taken hostage along with Silvia. Of course, due to unexpected events, they are trembling endlessly while still trying to grasp the situation that they are in.

The terrorist’s mastermind is 'Avdocha the Convicted’.

There are nine soldiers surrounding them.

The nine soldiers give off the feeling that they are from the mountains and are large, muscular men. They are dressed in their folk costumes; With an eagle looking mask on their face and equipped with the mountain people's usual whip and shamshir<ref>Half-moon shaped dagger.</ref> dagger and others. The nine men seem to be loyal to Avdocha. In contrast to their savage like looks, they accept orders just like any regular army soldiers.

Avdocha’s objective is to defeat Veronica. She probably wants to take advantage of the 100 hostages to achieve this goal.

''"is there nothing that we can do?"''

''As the Knight’s Royal Princess… What can I do?'' Just when Silvia thought this, her first thought is the intention to expose her identity as the princess.

"As long as I identify myself, we could ask them to release the hostages......"

It is not an exaggeration to have this idea because she should have her own value as the princess.

''If she can use a person's freedom in exchange for the safety of the public… Isn't this a very good bargain?''

"I will never allow you to do this!"

Surprisingly, Jessica actually tries stopping Silvia. When she heard Silvia talking to herself, she with a low voice advised her to give up on the idea.

"Once they know that you are Princess Veronica’s sister there’s no one who can guarantee your safety."

"The problem is... If I am the only person who will be sacrificed and these people can be saved -"

"Do not look down on others! I never had the intention to sell you out for my freedom! For I'm Jessica Valentine!"

At this time, Avdocha who was originally busy giving orders to the men, suddenly turned around and look back at Silvia and Jessica.

"Well, well, well.... There is someone who has the leisure to whisper around even when they are in danger. You really have guts to be doing that."

She took the reins of the basilisk and moved closer to the two. The basilisk with its heavy steps gives a pressuring feeling; Silvia is almost scared out of her wits.

However. Jessica is the opposite.

She stood up from the spot.

"I am Jessica Valentine!"

"So?"

"Don’t look at me like that. I'm a well-known noble! Out of respect for me… Can you promise that you would never harm the other hostages?"

The heroic act gave Silvia a hard hit.

In such a situation… She actually had the courage to claim herself as a '''noble'''...!

Avdocha sitting on the basilisk’s back, her eyes narrowed into a crack.

“Noble? I've never heard of the Valentine house... Anyway. We appreciate your foolhardiness; I’ll now give you an important task! Arrest her!"

Two of Avdocha’s men came forward without a word and held Jessica from both sides. Without any explanation they dragged her to Avdocha.

Like a comforting thought Silvia imagines that there is nothing that needs to be worried about.

However what unfolded in front of all hostages was a tragic scene.

Jessica clothes were torn and stripped off. Then, Avdocha, personally took a lipstick and wrote on her belly '''The Head of Valkyrie!’'' 

Jessica from the start to the finish didn't moan once and not even a drop of tears flow out from her eyes. She just gritted her teeth and bears all this but it is not difficult to tell what she is experiencing.

Finally. Jessica was taken to the altar and tied to the cross.

"Jessica... I've misunderstood you. In fact. You are a lot nobler than a true noble."

''-Compared to me. I-I’m...... Actually weak and incompetent.''

She could use her identity as a Dragner and fight back...... It is not that Silvia doesn't have this idea; the problem is, as long there are hostages, there is no way to summon Lancelot in the church.

This space in the church is too small for Lancelot to use its skills.

''"Damn... Why am I... This useless?!"''

Apart from sitting down, together timidly with the other hostages, in addition to unable to do anything, Silvia deeply hated herself.

===Part 7===
''"'Avdocha the Convict'? How can this be possible ...!"'' Anya murmured.

Anya, who is disguised as a flower girl, is mixed amidst about a hundred hostages inside the church.

In order to prevent her men, who deeply hated Veronica, from taking any actions Anya also infiltrated Ansrivan. She only went to the St Valeria’s Church to gather information but was unfortunately drawn into Avdocha’s terrorist act.

'Avdocha the Convict' is a legend in the mountains. Since she was lost in a military operation and there were no more rumors about her anymore. So many thought that she had died...

Anya since her childhood had already heard her name and looked up to her. Avdocha have left her village with numerous heroic legends.

Of course, this is the first time Anya saw her.

She had only seen her portrait in the wanted poster in the past at best.

The beauty on the wanted poster is a perfect match with the title 'Avdocha the Convicted'.

The record breaking reward amount, one million Eccles, is also a stunner.

But the person herself is not the case.

''-I actually didn’t expect that she had such a petite body...Logically speaking… Her actual age should be around the twenties.'' Anya thought to herself.

That aggressive basilisk who was tamed and obeyed her, that is the best evidence that she is likely Avdocha. Because in Avdocha’s heroic legend, the basilisk didn’t just play a small role.

However, from Anya’s point of view, there are too many things that don’t fit.

''- Such a terrorist act... Is nothing but foolhardy.''

In this world… There are plenty of rebels who recklessly sacrifice their own life. The Tantalos tribe, since a long time ago, seems to be popular with suicide attackers.

However, judging from the rumors spread on many parts of the mountains, at the very least, Avdocha is not that kind of reckless person.

Not only did she led successful fights, one after another, in the end, she always survived. - Because of this… Avdocha had become a legend.

Even when the ''‘killed in action’'' message is well publicized people still think that ''"maybe she is still alive somewhere in the world"''. That is the part that makes Avdocha so scary and also adds some style to her legend.

Against such legendary figures it is impossible for her to do such a foolhardy act......

Anya feels that instead of thinking about these problems she should worry about her own safety.

''- Yes... In fact. What is she going to do next?''

Since Avdocha had already set the time limit they will die if they just sit still.

Don’t forget each time the bell rings… One of the hostages will be killed...

How about if she revealed that she is also from the Tantalos tribe. Even she did think that… -Anya quickly waved off this idea.

She is a veteran.

Such people will not take Anya in as her companion just because of the same skin color. To act rashly will probably end up with a harsh lesson like that Jessica Valentine.

Although under Milgauss' help the mountainous people's dispute was finally able to calm down but there are a lot of Tantalos family who gave up their home and choose to come out from the mountains. Which resulted in many people, who are not from the mountains, with the same skin color as Anya increasing.

Moreover. There are the rumors:

Princess Veronica established a force consisting of foreigners and she intends to use a different army system for them than from the Knight's army. They are also for other uses.

Also there seems to be many mountain people who are included in the group.

''-I shouldn’t act rashly or else I’ll be suspected as a soldier from the foreign force......''

Even though she was disguised as a flower girl… But she is still Avdocha. Perhaps she may recognize Anya had once undertaken military training at a glance.

''- If that is so. Then the smart move is to temporarily blend in with the hostages and see what’s going to happen next.''

After concluding all that Anya is hugging her knees with her hands and her head is buried in between them. This way she will not need to face Avdocha directly.

If she can just avoid doing any unsightly behavior, no matter how many times the bell sounded, Anya will never be so unlucky and be killed? After all. The number of hostages are as many as 100 people......

But god is never gonna let her get off easily.<ref>This is a proverb.</ref> Beside Anya there was a mother shaking while holding her baby. Maybe because the baby sensed her mother’s anxiety, the look on it's face was as if, it is going to burst into tears anytime.

''- Please be good...!''

Anya immediately pulls her cheeks and began to coax the baby.

"Chaa...♪"

It is probably that her act is funny but fortunately the baby gave a happy grin.

She silently felt relieved, even within her heart, but at the same time she starts to hate herself.

''- What am I actually doing...?''

===Part 8===
Rebecca suddenly speaks to Veronica.

"Are you going to send someone to negotiate?"

Veronica seems like she is interested in this proposal and looks to Rebecca.

Even when the person she is speaking to is Veronica, Rebecca is still without fear, and gracefully stated her views:

"We must not use the main cannon of the Silvanus until the very end. I think we should make this our trump card and only use it when we are left with no other choice."

"Alright, we’ll follow to according what you had said."

"Thank you, Your Highness."

"The question is who will become the negotiator?"

Rebecca with a confident smile responded to Veronica.

"Public order of Ansarivan, since ancient times, is maintained by the Student Council so I think we should send someone from the council. If it is just a student I think they will let their guard down."

Hearing Rebecca's rhetoric, Ash feels anxious.

Since Silvia was taken as hostage, and the vice president and secretary are nowhere in sight as usual, the candidates left behind are the trio of Rebecca, Max, and Ash.

Of course, everyone knows that Rebecca is the most suitable person for this task, but -

"I recommend Ash Blake as negotiator."

Rebecca has made a very surprising recommendation.

"Huh?"

Ash suspects he had heard it wrongly.

"That... Rebecca-san. You are serious about it?"

Just when Ash is at loss, Eco interrupted Rebecca.

"Are you kidding? Do you want to let this guy go alone into such dangerous place?"

Facing Eco who is in fury, Rebecca replies her with a playful smile.

"Could it be that you are worried about Ash?"

Eco suddenly blushed.

"T-Th-That. How is that possible? What I’m protesting about is that you don’t have the rights to order my meat slave!"

Once those words were blurted out… The atmosphere in the navigation room immediately froze.

Even those officers who are in charge of the steering and the communication secretly peeped at Ash as if he is a suspicious person.

"Wait! Don’t talk any nonsense that’ll make people misunderstand!"

The ‘meat slave’ that Eco means is someone who will present their own flesh to their owners when they are hungry. But, by no means, were those officers imagining that kind of meaning.

But the situation right now did not allowed Ash to explain himself just because everyone threw him a suspicious glance.

Finally. Veronica broke the silence.

"Well... I didn’t think that you are actually Eco’s meat slave. I admire you have some backbone."

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding!"

Veronica looked at Ash who is desperately denying.

"Is there anything to be shy about? Isn't it that meat slaves are those who give their own flesh for their lord when they are aware that their lord is at the risk of starvation?"

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding... Huh?!"

Ash is stunned.

"You are really strange. If there are any other meanings… Why don’t you speak it out loud?"

Veronica is with a serious expression. As if she only knew this meaning.

Eco and Veronica's thinking seems to have something in common.

"Yes. you're right! That’s what Eco’s meat slave means!"

After Ash grasps the opportunity to explain… The atmosphere of the navigation room finally calms down. Finally. Ash is away from those sharp glares and he let out a sigh of relief but the most fundamental problem is not yet solved.

"In short, without my permission, you'll never be going to send him there!"

Eco, who is stubborn, refused to back down.

Like her. Rebecca looks like she isn't in a hurry.

"Logically speaking, it is supposed to be my duty as president to go there –“

"Then you just only need to go to solve this problem!"

"The problem is that I cannot go because the terrorists should know that Rebecca Randall is an Ark-Dragner. If I was chosen as a negotiator it's likely that I’ll be ignored."

What Rebecca said is not unreasonable. If Ash was with the terrorists he’d also not greet Rebecca with open arms.

"So Ash, do you think that you can do it? There is a time limit, but you still have an equal strength as an Ark-Dragner. Nevertheless. You are also the ‘Silver Knight’."

"Don’t joke around. This burden is really too heavy for me!! No matter what… I’m just an ordinary student!"

"That’s right. It can be presumed that the other party also sees you as an ordinary student. So this is the advantage."

"The problem is..."

"Don’t be afraid. Even if it is dangerous, Eco will defend you. Am I right, Eco?"

"Don’t you just simply speak in place of others!"

"Oh! So you mean to say that you cannot protect Ash? Is the Ark you made so fragile?"

"I, I didn’t say that! Don’t you dare look down on my Ark!"

"Then. Can you protect Ash?"

"Of course!"

Eco confidently lifted her chest.

Ash can only smile.

Rebecca’s technique is really amazing. He doesn't know whether it is fortunate or unfortunate but Eco did not even notice that she had fallen into Rebecca’s trap.

“Don’t worry, Ash, even when is Eco protecting you… I will not be bold enough to send you into the enemies’ den alone."

Rebecca, suddenly with a gentle smile, stretched out her hands and gently rests them on Ash’s shoulders.

"Huh?"

The distance between the two is so close that they can sense each other's breath. Even when it is an emergency situation, Ash still could not help but blush. A fragrant aroma could be smelled.

"I will wait for an opportunity to attack the church. It is just that I’ll not be doing the same thing as you. With the Ark, it's child’s play to break into the church through the foundation."

"Foundation?"

Ash at that time doesn’t understand what she means.

"So, this is it!"

However. He then realized Rebecca's intentions.

First, Ash is sent into the church to act as a negotiator to stall for time.

Rebecca, on the other hand, is using the tunnels below to gain access to the church.

Next they’ll use the oracle to blast through the foundation and surprise Avdocha.

"President! Please let me participate in your plan!"

Max shouted.

When the Necromancia attacked the city Max was good for nothing and became a burden. He probably would like to take this opportunity to clear his name.

Rebecca immediately rejected.

"Sorry Max, this time, you won’t come in handy."

"... What?!"

Max, burnt out like a candle in the wind, stood motionless.

Ash understands Rebecca’s intentions; he knew she did not mean to ill treat him.

Max, who still remains in the stage of a Dragner, can only show his true colors when he is riding his dragon he. However this battle must be done in small scale and the large body of the dragon will only be in the way.

The Ark-Dragner who can use the oracle specially for the Ark is very suitable for this kind of combat.

Rebecca was right, despite the time constraints, Ash has that ability.

Thanks to Eco’s power Ash can give it a try.

Since he has this ability, what should he do to fulfill his responsibility -

Ash made up his mind.

"I’ll go, after all, Princess is waiting for us to save her."

"Well then. That's more like it."

Rebecca with a smile of appreciation, turned back to face Veronica.

"Do you think this strategy is practical, Your Highness?"

Veronica on the captain’s seat shaking her other leg, gave a satisfied smile.

"Very well, Rebecca. We will make use of your combat strategy, but I do not want to let talented people like you to go on an adventure alone, I’ll let Glenn go with you."

"Captain Glenn’s combat power is what I sought for."

Rebecca agreed immediately but Glenn opposed it.

"Veronica-sama, I’m the escort’s captain, is it really appropriate for me not to be beside you -"

"What are you talking about? Glenn?"

Veronica whispers in Glenn’s ear.

''She is most probably asking him to personally rescue Silvia who is bound to be married to him-'' Ash thought.

Like a confirmation, to Ash’s prediction, Glenn for a moment exposed an unpleasant expression.

Glenn, since he came to Ansrivan, always remains with expression Number 1. So such changes must be really rare.

Anyway, Glenn after all is a loyal servant to the king.

"...Yes. Princess."

After he respectfully bowed… His normal poker face returned.

Ash of course does not agree with that absurd marriage but now is not the time to protest.

"Hey, Eco, can we make a deal?"

"Why?"

Ash stood next to Eco and quietly whispered.

Since the other party possessed the Empire made bombs countermeasures must be prepared in advance.

"...Can you do it Eco?"

Just as Ash expected, after listening to his combat strategy, Eco is puzzled.

"Huh? How do I know whether I can do it or not?"

"No. You can do it."

Ash with confidence smile at Eco.

"...?"

Eco simply did not expect that Ash would smile at this time and she fell into a confused silence.

"Remember the last time we fought the Necromancia? At least this opponent is a human. No matter what, it won’t be as difficult as last time."

"Well... perhaps it is like that this time."

"I’ll be looking forward to your performance. Eco."

Then, Ash placed his hand lightly on Eco’s shoulder.

"I-I know but… I’ve a condition-

“Crepes right? After everything is dealt with… I’ll bring you back to look for the stall."

Eco slightly lift her neck and looked up at Ash.

"...You still remember?"

"Of course I remember. Because you are my Pal."

''"W- Why does Ash even have this type of aura around him...!"''

Even when Eco angrily turned her face to the side… Her ears were still all red.

===Part 9===
After alighting from Silvanus Ash passed through the evacuated St Durham Square and moved towards St Valeria’s Church.

On the way there, Ash suddenly remembers the tie clip.

This was given by the communication officer before he departed.

Inside The tie clip, even though it looks ordinary, it has a small piece of Bright Dragon Crystal and it will send the sound it received back to the Silvanus' navigation room.

To put it bluntly. It is an ultra-micro magic communication tool.

Only then Ash realized that this type of machinery existed in this world.

Who would think that he would actually take on such a chore? Ash cannot help but secretly cry.

But Rebecca’s analysis is very reasonable; He cannot deny that he is most suitable person to play this role. After all Ash as a student, is unknown to the public but at the same time he has the same combat ability as an Ark-Dragner.

''"Forget it. Anyway. Boats eventually straighten when they reach the docks."''<ref>It means just to 'follow the flow'.</ref>

After he finishes thinking, he thrust his hands into the pockets of his pants.

He maintained his speed and continued to walked forward.

Rebecca and Glenn should now have departed towards the church through the underground tunnels.

Just when Ash is 20 meters from the main entrance of the church...

''-Shoo!''

Beside his ears, a whizzing sharp sound is heard and the stone on the ground is followed by a "''pop''!" strange sound.

"...?"

Only after a full few seconds does Ash realized that someone was shooting at him!

''"Are they the ones who fired the shot...!"''

At the church’s window on the second floor are two snipers. They were armed with weapons that he suspected to be Empire-made sniper rifles.

''Is Avdocha working with the Empire’s army? Or, are they using what they recover from their fights with the Empire...?''

Let's put the origin of the weapons aside; the shooting just now is clearly a warning. If the sniper had the intention to kill, that shot probably would have killed Ash.

After realizing he is one step away from death, Ash gave a cold sweat. But at this time he cannot retreat.

Because Silvia is a hostage being held inside the church-

''"Do not be afraid...Eco is protecting me."''

After Ash pumped himself up, he shouted toward the sniper:

"I’m Ash Blake and I’m here on behalf of the Student Council! Please let me in to negotiate with you!"

Even Ash does not think he sounds convincing but the ‘Student Council’ in this academy town holds a great position.

Since Avdocha is one of the leading activists she should know about this background knowledge.

"......"

They didn’t respond. However. One of the snipers disappeared from the window. From a positive perspective Ash hopes that they are afraid of the student council.

''"Well... How are they going to make their move?"''

Ash, hands in his pocket, patiently waited for the results.

After a few minutes. - "''Crack''..." The door, with a heavy sound, slowly opened.

===Part 10===
Once he passed through the door, Ash was soon surrounded by three masked soldiers.

After checking his items he is led to the altar.

Fortunately. The soldiers did not notice the tie clip and Ash is secretly relieved.

"Oh... So, kid, you are the negotiator?"

In front of the altar Avdocha, riding on the back of the basilisk, looked down at Ash.

Although Avdocha called him a kid… Doesn’t she think that her appearance looks a lot more childish? But, at this time, Ash shouldn’t correct her.

"I am the student council representative for General Affairs. Ash Blake."

While declaring his name, at the same time, Ash quietly observed the whole place.

A half-naked Jessica was still tied to the altar’s wing cross.

Because she is not moving Ash thought that she was dead. Though, with a closer look, there is still a sign of breathing in her chest.

It seems that she just lost consciousness. The red text written on her belly is more shocking than what is seen through the screen.

On the other hand… The hostages, that lined the walls, along the sides were quiet.

Ash found Silvia in a corner, thanks to the eye-catching academy uniform, Ash is able to find her.

"...!"

Silvia with a stunned look stares at the Ash.

Ash nodded slightly, for Silvia to be at ease, and his sight moved back to Avdocha.

"General affairs? It seems that I’m looked down upon."

"Even if it is our president who personally came to negotiate, would you even let her in? You should also know that our president is an Ark-Dragner?"

Avdocha laughed.

“Hehe... You talk too much. Say… What you want to negotiate about? Our request, a simple one, is Veronica’s head. As long as you obediently hand over her head, I’ll immediately release all the hostages. If not we will blow up the church. Things are just that simple. Are they not?"

"You really think we will accept such a request? She is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie'. If desperate enough that person would not hesitate to use the main cannon of Silvanus to blow this church, together with all the hostages, into ashes."

Once Ash blurted that out the hostages immediately began to become restless.

"What did you say?"

"Does Veronica-sama intend to do nothing about us...!"

"Disregard for human life!"

Avdocha cold sight shot through the panicked hostages.

"Silence!" With a loud sound enough to shake the earth.

Everyone kept quiet instantly.

"Is the purpose of this trip is to make the hostages panic? I’ve never seen such a foolish negotiator."

"I was just declaring the truth. If you continue to delay you will all lose your lives in vain!"

"Do you think this threat will be effective?"

"I do not think so since I've heard a lot about what you have done... That’s why I do not understand why would you do such things?"

Avdocha did not directly answer the questions. She just change the subject.

"So be it... I’ll tell you about my past."

"What did you say?"

The unexpectedly development cause Ash to be caught unprepared.

"In fact. We have been looking for my sister that has disappeared for quite a long time."

"Sister?"

"Yeah, but, I still do not know whether she is alive or not. It's because of the mountain disputes that caused our separation."

Is she trying to arouse the sympathy of the people? Or that she has some other purposes?

"... What happened after that?"

Ash tried to maintain a sound-calm-look while urging her to continue.

"What I want to say is this. Talking about this... I heard that Veronica has three sisters. I would like to let her feel the pain to be separated from her sisters."

Ash feels that he has goosebumps.

''Damn. This situation is very bad.''

Ash finally understands why Avdocha deliberately brought up the sister topic.

Because she wanted Veronica to also tasted the bitter feeling.

Silvia, once she is exposed, Avdocha is likely to not let her off.

Unfortunately, there are no signs that Rebecca and Glenn are about to break into the church.

''- Are you alright Eco...?''

Ash with a desperate feeling focus his attention on his left arm’s ‘Seikoku’.

With this 'Seikoku' Ash and Eco are able to communicate.

''- Eco... Can you hear me?''

Eco does not respond.

===Part 11===
- Dragon Workshop

This is but a space used by dragons to create their works. Even though Eco only has some knowledge about this space there is no doubt that this place is different from the real world.

If the real world is defined as the physical world, then this can be compared to the spiritual world. Since they are not bound to the body anymore they can imagine freely. With some effort, flying to the sky is not a problem-

Once Ash entered the church… Eco sent her spirit to the Dragon Workshop. Her true body is protected in Silvanus's navigation room so she does not need to worry about the safety of her body.

The floor is paved with white and black square tiles.

On the wall, there are many works left beside by her ancestors hanging there without any order. Just like a museum of black and white.

"Welcome to the Dragon Workshop."

As usual. The woman called Navi comes forward to meet Eco.

"You again..."

Eco with a bored look stared at Navi.

Frankly… Eco is not good at dealing with her.

Today Navi is wearing a dark red dress and sitting on an antique chair.

When I grow up. Will I become like her? Eco hated to look at her. Even her horns are different from Eco's as both of them are sharp and pointed.

"Isn't this only the second time we've met? How could that slow pace, of the two of us meeting, make you feel tired?"

"Hmph! I don't even want to come to this place!"

Eco impatiently talks back to Navi’s teasing.

''Sure enough. I have this headache whenever I meet this woman.'' Eco worried.

"Do you not have even a little desire to create? As I have told you; Dragons are born craftsman. Do you really not want to help him -Ash Blake- create an original Ark? "

Eco’s cheeks suddenly felt hot.

"D-Don’t joke around, why would I want to help that guy...!"

"Well… I think he is a very great guy! Since 'every dragon would surrender to him' he is also very mysterious. You too… Quickly grow into your 'true from' and let him ride on you... Then you may be addicted to that feeling."

''“'True From'?”''

Eco suddenly feel uneasy.

"What do you mean? In other words… My current form... Is just a deception? In the end… Why was I born in the human form?"

A flirtatious smile emerged on Navi’s face.

"Because the human form is also the real you."

"...?"

"But you are eventually a dragon and also Ash Blake’s Pal. I hope that you can soon be'' 'awakened' ''."

"Weird. Somehow every time you talk… I feel a fire emerging in my belly!"

"Hehe... Sorry. I seem to like to tease you. Back to the topic. You are here in order to complete your mission… Are you not?"

"Hmm... Yeah. That guy asked me to prepare a suitable Ark against the Empire-made bomb."

"He intends to use the power of magic against machinery? Well… Here we go."

Although she is very unhappy with Navi’s long-winded behavior… Conditions do not allow her to continue to waste her time in useless dialogue. So Eco closed her eyes and summoned the large number of designs left behind by her ancestors.

The total number of these designs is well over a thousand.

What Eco can do now, is to extract the parts which are suitable for Ash and re-build it into a new Ark suitable to go against the Empire-made bomb.

Although it is only an 'extract and re-build' it will still consume a huge amount of magic.

It will cause a huge burden on the young dragon Eco.

Even so. For Ash, who is in the enemy’s den, and also for her favorite crepes, Eco can only try… -

===Part 12===
Anya, who was mixed into the crowd, noticed something uniqe and her eyes widened while her thoughts went rambling on.

''- That guy-!''

''The ‘Silver Knight’ who successfully controlled the Necromancia-''

''The one who has potential to become Milgauss' enemy in the future-''

''This guy not only came into the church as a negotiator but he also revealed his own name.''

''"The student’s Council’s representative for General Affairs-Ash Blake is it...? I’ll remember your name."''

Even when out of nowhere she was caught in Avdocha’s terrorist act, which caused her to fall into despair, but it was also a blessing in disguise because now she knew Ash’s name without putting in any effort.

The only thing is, she has to leave this church alive, otherwise there is no meaning behind this. Not only each time the bell rings, they will kill a hostage… Veronica is also outside aiming the Silvanus' main cannon here.

So the first task is to get out of this dangerous place alive.

Once any event that is not expected by Avdocha happens it is a simple thing for her to escape.

In order to grasp this opportunity she must make herself ready......

"Chaa... ♪"

The thing is… Anya is now carrying a baby.

- She's the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’. If she is desperate, that person would not hesitate to use the Silvanus' main cannon and turn this whole church together with the hostages into ashes.

After hearing Ash’s announcement the mother, beside her, was so scared that she lost consciousness.

Fortunately. Anya had good reflexes, and she managed to grab the baby, and narrowly avoided the disaster of the baby bursting into tears. The problem is that now the situation is still in a critical point.

''"What can I do......"''

After Anya muttered with a sigh her chest suddenly felt numb and almost straightened her body.

It turned out that the baby stretched its arms to reach out and touch Anya's breast.

''- M-My breast. Even Milgauss-sama had never touched them before!''

The baby is probably hungry and wants to drink milk… Anya naturally cannot produce any milk and yet the baby's mother is still unconscious.

''- What is your mom doing! How could this be possible just because she lived in the peaceful days for too long!''

At the same time Anya is cursing in the bottom of her heart as the baby starts to fondle her breast.

All of a sudden it squeezes it with its hands and the next moment it rubs them with its face.

Compare to its mother’s breasts Anya’s are a lot smaller. Maybe the baby is troubled with the difference between the two?

Finally. The baby actually bites Anya’s nipples through the clothing.

"...... Ah!"

Under the strange sensation… Anya came out with a weird noise.

This voice causes her to blush with shame.

"Don’t you dare ask for too much!"

Anya quietly scolded it and forces the baby away from her chest.

Unexpectedly. The baby turns sour...

"Woo Woo ... ''hick…'' ... Waaaaaa!"

It suddenly burst into tears.

Anya looks ashen, even when she tries to please the baby, but it is a complete failure. She can’t be blamed for this because… She has never taken care of a child

''- Damn...... if Avdocha......''

However, in only five seconds, Anya’s worry has become reality.

"So noisy...... Can’t a mother of the Knight country discipline her child properly?"

Anya, still hidden in the crowd, feels her whole body stiffening instantly.

"Since it's too noisy… Why don’t you release the women and children?"

The boy named Ash steps forward to help but Avdocha just laughed him off.

"How can I? Moreover… The first bell is going to ring soon. I have been always punctual; Let’s just choose the baby as a sacrifice."

"Are you kidding? Are you even human? It is just an innocent baby!"

"Do you think there is time to care about the age of every opponent on the battlefield? If you are careless, it should not surprising, there will be a day that you will be killed by a five year old kid!"

"Even if it is like this-.”

As if to prevent Ash from saying anything the basilisk gave a ferocious deep rumbling growl.

"Grrrr......"

Once Avdocha heard the growl…

She laughs and answered back. "Hmm. Is it so…."

"What's so funny?"

"Hehe... It says that baby is just enough to wet the teeth. Well then. Bring me the mother and her child!"

After Avdocha gave the order two masks soldiers immediately take action.

''- I-It can’t be!'' Anya is horrified.

Avdocha actually want to feed the wing lizard with her -and- the baby......

One step, two steps. The soldiers move through the crowd and are coming nearer.

Since their expressions cannot be seen under the mask, many people shudder.

“Uuu..."<ref>Voice of being scared.</ref> The crowd moans.

Anya is scared and begins to shed tears.

Even when Anya has cheated death for a few times, and is a veteran, she still can't withstand Avdocha’s heavy pressure. Her mind instantly turns blank.

The soldiers are closer now.

''"I can’t be saved anymore...!"''

Just when Anya gives up hope-

"Hold on!"

A loud voice echoed in the church, someone came forward to stand in front of Anya.

The first thing that emerged in Anya’s eyes is a dazzling golden hair.

The person, in the dragon riding academy’s uniform, protected Anya and the baby and declared to Avdocha:

"I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia. I request, as a member of the royal family, for you to immediately release the mother and its child!"

===Part 13===
The voice in the church, through the magic communicator in Max’s hand, can be heard in the airship Silvanus' navigation room

『 "I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia. I request as a member of the royal family for you to immediately release the mother and its child!"』

The moment Silvia exposed her own identity… Max became dumbstruck.

"What the hell is Her Royal Highness doing...?!"

Isn't she inverting the root and branch<ref>Proverb.</ref>? As a result, it is essentially giving Avdocha the trump card.

"Hmph. That idiot..." Veronica muttered.

But. She didn’t show an unhappy expression.

On the other hand. It looks like she is smiling.

===Part 14===
''"That's our country’s Princess for you!"'' Silvia, who took the initiative to expose her own name, of course surprised Ash though in his heart he has other thoughts.

Because in this case, in order to save the mother and her child, unless Silvia came forward, there would be no other way.

"Hmm... Why bother? If you had kept quiet… Then you might not have been noticed."

Avdocha controlled the basilisk’s reins and approached Silvia.

"I- I am a Princess! How can I sit quietly and watch my people be killed!"

"Hehe...... How appealing, but, how come your body is shaking like that?"

"This is because my fighting spirit is trembling!"

Even as she verbally did not admit defeat Ash could see that Silvia is obviously trying to be brave.

"Is it so. Let me see how brave you are?"

Avdocha's face gave a dark smile while her hand stretched out signaling her underlings to act. The underling pulled out a shamshir and respectfully handed it to Avdocha.

"Stop!"

Ash wanted to rush out to protect Sylvia but is stopped, by Avdocha’s underlings, and is held from behind.

"You idiots! Let me go!"

No matter how hard Ash struggles the soldiers didn’t give the slightest stir. Even 'School’s number one problem child' is no match for a veteran soldier.

"Hehe...... you have good luck, your location is just right at the VIP’s seat.”

Avdocha with a grin said that, and rode her basilisk as it slowly moved forward.

The distance to Silvia is gradually shortened.

Finally, in front of Silvia, the basilisk used its tongue to lick at Silva’s face.

"...Eww!" Even Silvia could barely hold back her screams.

Though apparently she has long been scared out of her wits.

“Look this way Silvia!” Avodcha gave a thunderous shout

Perhaps she is already prepared as Silvia opened her arms to both sides.

Then. She makes a declaration:

"To die like a knight...... Is what I wish for!"

"I admire your guts!"

Avdocha lifted the shamshir.

"Stop-!"

Ash’s scream cannot stop the merciless blade.

''-Shaa!'' As the blade passed through the air.

Killed.

Silvia was killed.

Ash lost hope.

===Part 15===
"...?"

Silvia is still standing.

There is no blood on her body.

The incredible thing is… Silvia did not even feel the pain.

The next moment- Silvia found out that the tight uniform is no longer binding her.

Pieces of cloths like snowflakes are dancing in the air.

Silvia felt seriously humiliated.

''"...Why is it always like this!"''

Avdocha didn’t slash at Silva’s flesh nor bones- but... .

Only her clothes, like an apple skin, are peeled off and her almost naked body lay exposed.

Coincidentally. The same thing was recently done by Veronica.

Her body, which is only covered with some clothes and underwear fragments, displays an almost naked type of half-nakedness.

Silvia covers her chest with both hands while squatting in place and huddled into a ball. She knew Avdocha’s sight is focused right on her bare skin.

"Princess! Didn’t you desire to die like a knight? Where is your previous pride? You are just exposed naked to the public and you change back to what ordinary women and children do? I almost threw up! You don’t have the right to become a knight! And. It is not worthy for me to kill you! "

"I... I...!"

Being looked down by Avdocha from the very start… Silvia’s emotions were gradually reaching a boil.

At the same time, though, she is trembling more than ever.

But it is not because of fear that she is trembling. She is trembling because she is full of fighting spirit.

''"-... This woman was right. What do I have to feel ashamed about? This has no different from any ordinary woman or child? And I even dare to call myself a Knight...... It will just make people laugh! Although I do feel regret… I just need to admit it. I don’t have sufficient awareness. No wonder anee-ue scolds me......!"''

''"-Be aware of yourself… Silvia Lautreamont! What’s my aim? An excellent knight? That is indeed one of my goals in the past. But I was asking too little from myself. Have to think quickly. I'm Silvia Lautreamont! What is the only realm that I can reach? To show her the future that only I can have!"''

At that moment… Silvia's mind received God's enlightenment and she suddenly found her answer.

"Phew... Avdocha. I'll have to thank you."

Silvia suddenly wore a happy expression and Ash was shocked.

Even Avdocha who already turned her back on Silvia was surprised.

"Are you mad?"

Avdocha ridiculed and gave a laugh.

Silvia covered her chest with her hand and graceful stood up from the ground.

"Princess ......?"

Ash wants to avert his eyes from Silvia's naked body but his eyes refused to move.

It is not because he has any indecent thoughts.

It is because of a bright shining glow that made him reluctant to avert his sight.

Avdocha and her subordinates, as well as the rest of the hostages, are like Ash. Everyone's eyes are watching Silvia.

"Avdocha. You are the one who made me aware of how weak I am and what lack of awareness I have."

“So? I’m only speaking based on the truth."

“However. I never before noticed such obvious things. It is a real shame to say so... However. '''I have been reborn!''' The past me is already killed by your sword! The new Silvia is now reborn! "

"Oh... I'd like to ask to ask; What can a reborn Silvia do?"

Avdocha look at her fiercely.

The basilisk gave a frightening breath.

Even so… Silvia did not be budge.

"I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!"<ref>King of the Knight country.</ref>
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p233.jpg|thumb|"I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin"]]

Silvia’s declaration echoed in the church loudly.

"Hee… hee… haha! Even I didn’t expect this answer... You want to become the Paladin? What nonsense! So, in order to achieve your goals, you have to try to break through this dilemma. Well. What are you gonna do?"

Unexpectedly. Silvia laughed.

"Nothing. I had said that I’m gonna become the Paladin! There are people supporting me from the back and I also have anee-ue as my family. I just need to believe in them and wait for the 'upcoming moment'!"

"Haha. Don’t you think that, before before something like that happens, I can take your life away so easily?"

"If I die in your hands… It just means that I’m just so-so."

Just when Silvia heroically makes the declaration... -

There is a terrible shake and just then, in a surge of raging magic, a hole is neatly cut through the floor of the church.

"Sorry to keep you waiting Ash!"

Equipped in their Ark Rebecca and Glenn jump out from the large newly created hole in the floor.

“-Enemy ambush!” Avdocha’s men shouted.

The soldiers, in a blink of an eye, move into formation and attack Rebecca and Glenn. Even the one who is holding Ash is no exception.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Right after Rebecca summoned her magic spear Glenn follows by summoning his Ark-Dragner’s personal Ark-weapon.

"Appear! The lightning speed magic sword! Caladbolg!"

Ash’s eyes widened.

''"That's Glenn’s personal Ark-weapon......!"''

The magic sword Caladbolg is a giant sword with its length is comparable to Glenn’s height. Glenn, without much effort, swung the sword just the afterimage of lightning speed. No wonder he is Veronica’s escort’s captain.

"Hmph...... An unsightly person!"

Even when she curses them Avdocha's is still able to smile. Ash cannot understand how she managed to stay calm.

At this time… Avdocha suddenly jumped off the back of the basilisk and rushes toward the back of the altar.

"Is she...!"

Ash, who realized what she is going to do, clenches his teeth. Even when he wants to continue chasing, the basilisk blocks his way.

The basilisk's eyeballs, as it maneuvers in the way, rotate and continue to stare at Ash.

"Hehehe. Don’t forget I still have the bombs. It is your loss."

Avdocha at the back of the altar proudly laughs.

The reinforcements, Rebecca and Glenn, are still fighting the enemy soldiers. As worthy of the people of the mountains they successfully pin down the Ark-Dragners.

Of course,if Rebecca and Glenn show their true ability, in the blink of an eye they would be the winners. However, if they don’t hold themselves back, they will not only kill their opponents but all the hostages too. Even the whole church will be destroyed!

''-What am I going to do?'' Ash was in a dilemma.

If the stalemate continues… Then Avdocha is going to press the button. No, before that, he has to deal with the basilisk or else he can’t get himself close to the altar.

The problem is that for an unarmed human to win against a basilisk it is indeed a fantasy.

''"Shoo......"''

In that instant. The basilisk issued terrible breath and started stomping around.

It moves its limbs with high-speed and, like gliding on the ground, it rushes towards Ash.

"Ha…?’’

Its speed surprised Ash. Although he is conscious about it his two legs refused to move. Ash is jinxed to become a statue as his whole body involuntarily stiffened.

"Uwaaaa!"

Ash helplessly screams.

The basilisk is right in front of him opening it's mouth.

In his mind there is a clear image of him getting bitten into pieces and broken into two main portions.

''"My God ...!"''

Silvia quickly covered her eyes. She did not have the courage to face the scene of Ash being shredded by the beast.

''"I... How could I be so weak? Where did I get the idea of becoming a Paladin......!"''

Silvia slumped to her knees.

''Sniff''...... Her tears fell off from her eyes onto the stone floor which was gradually becoming wet.

"Oh... A divine light...!" A hostage with a praising tone muttered.

At this time there is another who noticed.

And the others around him are affected.

"...?"

Silvia wipes off her tears and raises her head.

A pale white light filled her entire field of vision.

After a short moment, the light can no longer be seen, there is a hot surge emerging from Silvia’s chest.

“Ash......!”

Equipped in the Ark Ash, with one hand, held up the basilisk’s upper jaw.

===Part 16===
Ouch. The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand is so hot.

His consciousness is almost swept away by the powerful magic.

''『 "- Sorry for the long wait."』''

Eco's voice finally can be heard in his mind.

''"It's so scary... Do you know that I was nearly eaten by this thing."''

Ash, who now can feel the Ark’s magic, smiled brashly.

He looked down to re-examine his own body and he sees a set of blue color Ark which made him remember Silvia's eyes.

''"Thank you. Eco."''

''『"D-Don’t need to thank me... I'm not doing it in order to help you. It's for the crepes okay!"』''

Eco cheeks are bright red.

"How is this possible? You are also a Ark-Dragner? How did we miss this information-?"

While witnessing the dazzling Ark, with a look of surprise, Avdocha’s almond eyes widen.

"My Pal is different from the others!" Ash shouts!

At the same time Ash lightly pushes the basilisk’s chin. The basilisk is stunned by Ash as its previous imposing attitude had vanished.

"You are very obedient. Well. The beast seems to be very sensitive to stronger opponents."

While Ash steps forward the basilisk, simultaneously and obediently, steps back.

"I’m stronger than you! If you are from the Asia’s, if you have some intelligence, Quickly be on your knees!"

Frighten by Ash’s voice, at first it is anxious to know what to do, then letting out a scream, it knelt down.

"That's right."

Ash gently sat on its back.

"Ah! What are you going to do with Kuu-chan!"

Avdocha screams.

“Kuu-chan? Even when you look so scary… I didn’t think that you had such a cute name."

Ash gave a wry laugh. Kuu seems embarrassed and lightly twists its body.

"It seems that the situation has reversed. Avdocha. Let’s go Kuu!"

Being kicked by Ash Kuu gave out a roar and starts running towards the altar.

"Hey Hey, Kuu-chan! I’m your master!"

Avdocha who is panicked simply looks like a child.

While sitting on Kuu’s back, Ash is searching for the information regarding his Ark-weapon.

Soon… A strange weapon design is spread out in his mind.

After checking the properties and the additional effect of the weapon Ash gave a satisfied smile.

Eco managed to do what Ash proposed.

Kuu, like an Asia, kept running forward.

The distance to the altar is quickly narrowed.

Avdocha’s face also turns pale.

"Appear!...... The absolute Zero Holy gun-"

A extremely long gun emerges, out of thin air, under Ash’s summon.

Its shape is similar to the Empire made sniper rifle and yet also is like a spear.

The aim is locked at the altar.

While pulling the bolt. '' 'Kacha' '' At the same time, as the metal sounded off, the magic ammunition had been loaded.

"Brionac!" Ash yelled.

While, at the same time, pulling the trigger.

A magic bullet shot out from the muzzle followed by a loud sound. The heavy bullet shell casing is ejected with a ''‘Clang’''. It then hits the ground and rolls.

"Uuu ...!"

The shot created a powerful recoil which almost caused Ash to fall from Kuu’s back but, fortunately, he has his blue Ark and is sill sitting firm in the saddle.

At the same time the magic bullet is shooting towards the altar and a pale blue flash can be seen.

“Kuu. Retreat!”

Kuu, listening to Ash's order, quickly turns and runs in the direction opposite of the altar.

"What!"

Avdocha cried out in dismay.

After the freezing magic was launched… Shining ice crystals can be seen coalescing.

The ice crystals gradually increase in size and quickly engulfed the entire altar together with the bombs.

"A-Avdocha-sama!"

Not only that… Avdocha’s men are also mercilessly frozen while being caught up in the effect..

"Finally......!"

Ash smiled.

To fight, against the Empire made bombs, experts are required. Even though Knight Country, and the Kingdom, had many exiled scientists from the Empire the problem is not enough time to recruit and train them.

If that being the case… It is better to risk trying to use the oracle’s power to freeze bombs to the point they are disabled. This is Ash's basic strategy.

Ash asked Eco to produce an Ark with ice properties.

Needless to say… This idea is obtained when he was in the Silvanus' lounge reading the novel ‘The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'. The protagonist in the series ‘Silver Knight’ uses the frozen magic to interrupt the operation of the machine.

Of course, Ash can’t guarantee the actual effect. He can only gamble- at least at this stage the bombs that have become ice have ceased functioning.

"W-Wait a minute! I-......"

Avdocha was barely able to move from the relatively wide range of the ice round's frozen effect. In the end… He does not escape the inglorious fate of becoming an ice statue.

What he needed to be worry about is, before she became completely frozen, Avdocha seemed to have something to say. But, in short, the St Valeria’s church incident has ended.

===Part 17===
Up to a hundred hostages were released.

Avdocha and her men, who had become ice statues, were carried out with the help of the civil engineers. Those veteran soldiers, in the end, had become ice and were dragged off by the Asias on a cart. Only the word pitiful can be used to describe them.

Since Kuu was Avdocha’s pet it was also taken away by the escorts. Ash silently prays, in hope that, Veronica will treat it well.

More importantly, he now needs to complete the task that is at hand.

Even though he knows his actions are wrong, Ash still climbs up the icy altar and starts to rescue Jessica who is tied to the winged cross.

Fortunately the freezing magic did not spread to Jessica. Just that, in order to avoid looking at her naked skin while trying to save her, his job is quite difficult.

When Ash finally cut the rope and with both hands carried Jessica -

"Nn ..."

Jessica in Ash’s arms slowly opened her eyes.

Right after she found out that Ash is carrying her. Her eyes widen.

"Y-You...... You are Ash Blake? Why...... Are you in an Ark...?"

"Huh? Err… No. This is..."

Ash regretted his mistake.

He simply did not think that Jessica would regain her consciousness so soon.

Ash did not know how to remove the Ark. So, before Eco’s magic runs out, he can only continue to wear it.

Clearly there is no way to continue to hide the truth anymore, Ash can only give an excuse to explain it.

"... Yeah. The 'Silver Knight' is me. It is just that today my Ark is not silver in color."

After Ash honestly confesses, Jessica’s cheeks turn red.

"To use ice attacks against those mechanical bombs is simply ‘Silver Knight’ himself! Waa-wah. Ash-sama!"

"Sama?"

Ash is stunned. Jessica eyes are now watery.

Moreover. Jessica is only wearing her underwear. The cleavage, made by her breasts, can be clearly seen. Even under such occasions, Ash cannot help but being seduced. In front of the beauty that is Jessica… The even blue Ark's strength cannot come in handy.

"I have been determined, for a long time, that my first time will be at the church altar."

"What lies! It is obvious that you had just thought about it!"

"I beg you, Ash-sama, please give me your sperm now...!"

Somehow, Jessica really began to take off her underwear on the spot, and the first thing she actually takes off is her panties instead of her bra.

"Your order of taking off your underwear is too strange, or it should be said, who even asked you to take them off!"

Ash quickly held Jessica's hands to stop her.

"Do not worry."

Jessica sexy lower abdomen is slowly exposed. Eventually, even the following parts are-

"Stop! This is too casual!"

"I'm ready, Ash-sama... Her goddess St Valeria is also staring at us."

"Her goddess Valeria is a protector of law! We will be arrested!"

"Hee hee... I didn’t think that you were so introverted."

Jessica's sweet smell is disturbing Ash.

"Uuh!"

Ash inexplicably feels dizzy; and almost falls down from the altar together with Jessica.

At this time, Rebecca speaks to Ash from behind.

"Hey, Ash! Hand her to me, you go and take care of Silvia."

Rebecca had long removed her Ark and is helping the escorts to do their tasks and should be very busy. However she probably saw that Ash is in trouble and could not bear just being a bystander.

“Sorry to trouble you. Rebecca-san."

Ash hands Jessica to Rebecca.

"Ah, ahh, Ash-sama, please stay!"

"S-Sorry... See you next time!"

Ash put Jessica’s regretful sounds aside and ran to look for Silvia.

Along the way the Ark breaks into sparkling fragments.

===Part 18===
Silvia is standing against the wall.

Her body is wrapped in blankets given to her by the escorts Her naked body, that has been exposed not long ago, is now wrapped up tightly. The thing is… Her curves can still be seen. Ash, after putting in some effort to not focus on those curves, finally spoke to Silvia.

"Yo. Princess. Err... Are you okay?"

Ash, suddenly becoming lost, can only squeeze out those few words. It's a bit embarrassing.

"Ahh. I’m not injured...... You saved me again."

"My performance is nothing much but, rather, Princess you are so cool."

"Y-You... What are you talking about!”

Silvia, who is blushing, probably has lost all her strength. Unsurprisingly she suddenly stumbles.

"... Careful!"

Ash was ready, and immediately reaching out, caught Silvia's body.

The blanket wrapped around Silvia’s body slips off and flutters to the ground.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash looked at the place above her neck and timidly asked.

He instantly thought that he would not escape her iron fist… But, for some reason, Silvia did not show her usual angry expression. Ash then sets her down on her feet.

"S-Sorry. That…. My waist ... I just suddenly..."

Silvia's eyes filled with tears as she quickly grabs the blanket and wraps it around herself.

If Ash did not catch her in time she would probably have fallen.

"Otherwise... I’ll give you a piggyback."

"Huh? But..."

"You don’t have to feel shy."

Ash smiled back, turned around, and gently lifted Silvia.

Silvia felt embarrassed at the start but, shortly after that, she held onto Ash’s neck.

At that moment… Ash felt that Silvia breasts, pressing on his back, change their shape.

"...huh!"

"What’s wrong. Ash?"

"N-Nothing ..."

While being unexpectedly stimulated, blushing and at the same time, Ash continue his pace.

===Part 19===
On her way, to the magicship Silvanus, while being piggybacked by Ash.

"...?"

Silvia is suddenly struck with an incredible feeling.

''- Why is this? Being piggybacked by Ash… Somehow I miss this feeling... Am I familiar with this back...?''

This nostalgic atmosphere is so strong until Silvia can barely hold back her tears.

''The only thing is, the gentleness of Ash’s back, it's just too comfortable -''

Silvia, without realizing, dozed off.

"Paladin ~ A. B. S. 1365.5 ~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Epilogue

2014-02-13T21:22:30Z

Aoi uchuu: words, grammar and phrases. Caption too.

==Epilogue==
===Part 1===
Two days later.

Ash, who was sleeping soundly on the futon on the floor, suddenly opened his eyes.

"Hey...... Eco? How come you're here again......?"

Eco had not only rolled off from her bed but also squeezed into Ash’s futon.<ref>Blanket like bed, it is laid on the floor.</ref>

Eco, like always, still sleeps naked.

The morning light, shining through a slit of the curtain, falls upon her white skin. After he realized this his heartbeat began to increase… Ash quickly looks aside.

"Myuu..."<ref>Sound of sleeping, not snoring.</ref>

Eco did not know that Ash was suffering, like a little baby afraid of loneliness she stuck closely to him. Ash has a bad premonition. Because when Eco acted this way… It means that she is ready to proceed to do 'that' "behavior".

"... Ow!"

Sure enough. Ash's chest started to itch and his body is covered with goose bumps.

Eco is nibbling.

"Mmm. Hmm ..."

Her rose like lips. Her teeth that are constantly nibbling him and also her tongue that is licking him all over. After all, this is a young dragon’s natural instinct, she cannot be blamed......

“Eco...... Stop...... If you continue...... Ow!"

When Ash felt that something is wrong, Eco gave a hard bite. That strength has long passed the stage of nibbling, her teeth is now biting into his flesh.

"It hurts! Didn’t you hear me saying that my life is at stake if you continue biting?"

Ash, while struggling with the pain, is wrestling with Eco. At that moment… There is a sudden knock.

“Ash! Wake up! Princess Veronica is asking for you!"

Rebecca's serious voice can be heard in the room through the door.

===Part 2===
Ash, led by Rebecca, is brought to the airship Silvanus. Eco, who has not yet woken up, was left in the dormitory.

"......Is Princess and Max not coming?"

"Silvia has long ago arrived at the ship. As for Max...... He is now busy removing the SKFC's new poster as he said he really couldn't stand them."

"The posters again? What do they announce this time?"

"Instead of listening to me, for your own sake, you should see for yourself."

Rebecca pulls out a folded paper from her pocket. After Ash receives the paper, he flips it open and reads it.

The President’s Handover notification.

I, Jessica Valentine have decided to join the student’s council in charge of the general affairs. From today onwards; I’ll resign from the duties of the President of SKFC.

The new president will be taken over by vice president Lynette (Basic Course Third Year).

Former SKFC President Jessica Valentine (Advanced Course First Year)

"... How come?"

"As you know, if the SKFC knew the true identity of the 'Silver Knight’, things will definitely get out of hand. So I recruited Jessica who knew the truth to prevent further information leakage."

"Sorry... It's my fault for letting Jessica-san know my secret. I didn’t realize it meant that I’m going to meet her now and then in the student council... I feel that my future has become dark."

"The way Jessica does things is always unpredictable. You must be careful not to let her push you down on the bed and let her squeeze out some strange things."

"No, no, don’t talk anymore nonsense!"

"Having said that are you having a ruckus with Eco in the bed everyday?"

After hearing this Ash is surprised for a moment.

"W-We do not do it every day!"

Ash is so embarrassed that he quickly denied.

"Being provoked by a girl in that way...... That…… You are still a healthy guy. Don’t you feel anything?"

It is rare Rebecca will use such euphemistic tone while questioning.

“It is impossible…… cause Eco is my Pal. She is a dragon! I don't even feel a thing."

“Really?”

“I-It’s true”

"Why are you stuttering?”

Rebecca with a cheeky smile peeps at Ash's face.

“Alright. Please don’t tease me anymore.”

“Sorry. Every time I tease you… I can’t stop myself.”

“Please control yourself a little! I beg you.”

A few moments later. The magicship Silvanus appeared in front of the two.

===Part 3===
By following the schedule Veronica is to leave Ansarivan today. Even when Ash thought that he wouldn’t run into any more trouble this time… Once he walked into the navigation room he recived a great shock.

"Avdocha the C-Convict!"

Veronica is leisurely sitting in the captain's seat, and the person beside her is actually the convict Avdocha. She remains riding on the back of the basilisk.

It seems that she escaped death from being frozen. Even Ash felt relieved because he didn’t want to kill anyone, but he still cannot help but wonder why Avdocha is in the navigation room freely.

"...... Ash. It's all part ofAnee-ue’s strategy."

Silvia who arrived earlier reveals a sigh, with a regretful expression, while talking to Ash.

Cosette and Prim are behind Silvia. From their smiling expressions, it is likely they were informed in advance.

"Strategy...... What on earth is happening?"

"To put it bluntly; This was an arrangement to train this unworthy sister."

Veronica confidently answered for Silvia. From how she speaks there is not even the slightest hint of her feeling apologetic.

Captain Glenn is also beside Veronica. He seems displeased, but, is it his own thought?

"So the whole incident... Is an arranged farce?"

Ash is speechless. He pretended to casually glance at Rebecca from the side but it seems that she didn’t feel surprise.

"Don’t tell me that... Rebecca-san you had noticed?"

Rebecca said grimly.

"I do think that this is a little strange, but I’m not that sure. Any way. This particular terrorist act is too low for the 'Avdocha the Convict' standard plus the coincidence that Silvia was involved… So it has become a little too dramatic."

Ash remembered when he was using the Ark-weapon Brionac, Avdocha seemed to have something to say. It must be that she was going to admit that this was all Veronica’s plan, and the so-called terrorist act is in fact a farce; but just before she speaks, she is frozen.

"So to say. Could it be... That the bombs are fakes?"

Avdocha straightforwardly answered Ash.

"No, They were real. The other objective of the farce is to train my men."

"What ...!"

Ash is speechless.

"Avdocha. If you don’t mind, please re-introduce yourself."

Under Veronica's urge, Avdocha reluctantly began to introduce herself.

"As you know, I have been doing revolution activities…. But five years ago I failed to assassinate Veronica. That time I surrendered to her. Now. My job has become the leader of the foreign force that Veronica created. This job is a great humiliation for me..."

"That being the case… Why are you now working under her?"

Ash's curiosity made Avdocha feel annoyed.

“Didn’t I mention this before? I have been looking for a long-lost sister and her name is Shamara. Before I know her whereabouts I must not get killed."

"So you really have a lost sister."

"If she is still alive, then this year, she should be around 15. Anyway, she was separated when she was four years old, I can only imagine how she looks grown up. But-"

At this time Veronica mercilessly interrupted this touching conversation.

"To simply put it, this time I’m the reason that you are dragged into the Royal’s problems. Fortunately Silvia seems to have grown up a little. Communication officer. Play the recordings."

"Understood!"

The communications officer operates the controls. After a few seconds, Silvia's voice with a slight static is played.

『 '' 'I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!' ''』

Silvia blushed.

“D-Don’t play it anymore onee-sama!"

"Hehe...... No matter how many times it is repeated I’ll never be tired of it."

Ash, for the first time, saw Veronica expose a happy mood. He had been thinking that she was always a very strict and ruthless person.

"Hee, Ash-sama, do you know why this airship was named Silvanus?"

Cosette, without Ash realising, moved closer and whispers in his ear.

"I don’t know."

"Don’t you think the two names Silvanus and Silvia is somewhat similar?"

Ash could not help but smile.

"What the...... In the end. Veronica is actually very kind to her sister?"

Cosette smiles at Ash and moves back to Silvia.

"Huh? Anyway… What will happen to Her Royal Highness Princess' marriage?"

Hearing Ash's question Veronica replies with a ''"Hmph"''.

"Since I had seen Silvia’s determination… I’ll forget about it. But. As long as your performance does not match that of a knight... Then we will see?"

Under the fierce watchful eye, from woman in the captain’s seat, Silvia seems embarrassed. But...

“Just like what I want. Anee-ue.”

Finally, she demonstrated an air which was different from her past, and resolutely answered.

===Part 4===
The airship Silvanus, as scheduled, departs from Ansarivan.

Apart from the mayor and Academy principle the student’s council members, led by Rebecca, Maestro Cú Chulainn, Maestro, and Lancelot, are also present.

"Ash. Didn't you think that the terrorist attacks launched by Avdocha were in fact as simple as a farce?"

The airship is on its way leaving. Rebecca cast a mischievous sight but Ash was surprised.

"Huh? Are there other reasons?"

"Of course. First of all, knowing Veronica will visiting Ansarivan, many dangerous people are sure to sneak into the city. But since 'Avdocha the Convicted' was first to launch a terrorist attack those people lost their opportunities."

Ash eyes widened.

Veronica managed to predict this thing only so that she considered to arrange that farce?

"Not only that, when all of us were focusing on the church, Princess Veronica’s men secretly took action looking out for suspicious people. Which may include those who were involved in the Necromancia’s attacks."

"So those who are caught...?"

"They are currently all kept in Silvanus. After returning to the capital they will probably have to face a terrible interrogation."

"What a scary person...!"

He didn’t expect Veronica’s tour of Ansarivan to have actually been carefully planed.

This battle alone is enough to run people dry… She even managed to design it so to let Silvia grow up. That is totally genius.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p260.jpg|thumb|Ash could not help but smile, staring intently, at the floating airship’s shadow that drifted further and further away.]]

This time Silvia seems unwillingly muttered.

"Anee-ue is gifted; She was capable of doing such things since long ago... I’m still far away from her."

"No. Princess will be able to surpass her."

Ash assured her.

"What…! W-Why do you sound so sure!"

Silvia blushed.

"No real reason -"

Ash could not help but smile, staring intently, at the floating airship’s shadow that drifted further and further away.

The reason is simple.

Because before the airship took flight… What Veronica said to Silvia is still clearly engraved in Ash’s mind-

"Silvia! You have the ability. Try to become the Paladin! Then try to make me kneel before you!"

"The Knight of ECO II" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Illustrations|Volume 3 Novel Illustrations]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4

2014-02-13T17:02:46Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, grammar and phrases. A caption.

==Chapter 4 - Avdocha the Convicted==
===Part 1===
Early in the morning. Ash put on his uniform and rushed out of magicship Silvanus straight to school.

Since he has obtained Veronica’s permission last night the guards in charge did not stop Ash.

On the way there Ash did not encounter Captain Glenn. Of course… Ash also simply did not want to meet him.

By quickly running up the stairs he finally arrived at the Student’s Council’s office.

"I’m entering."

He openes the door without hesitation and instantly… An object, like a cannon, flew into his arms.

"Oh! ......Eco?"

Eco’s body is soft.

Yesterday she probably went to Rebecca's room to stay for the night. He smells a sweet scent. One that that will not make you tired of it and yet will also make you feel refreshed.

"Something wrong?"

Eco’s attitude made Ash feel troubled. That feeling is like that of a pet and its owner, that have been separated for a long time, and it leaped at its owner when they were reunited.

The thing that he doesn't understand is… Does Eco have those kind of feelings? They didn’t see each other for only one night... And yet. Her personality has become so docile?

"It's annoying that you are so slow…..."

Eco buries her face in Ash’s chest and is reluctant to let go. Not only did she not let go there are also signs that she is hugging him a lot more tightly. The heat from her is transferring to Ash's body.

If it's only just that… Then he can let it be. Though, right after that thought, Eco grabbed Ash’s tie and pulled him right into the front of her face.

"S-Slow down. Wait... My neck is going to break ...!"

Ash quickly put his finger into the gap between tie and neck which barely enables him to breathe. At least he is now free from the danger of suffocating.

What is wrong with Eco so early in the morning?

Her cheeks are bright pink and her eyes are watery.

Ash is struggling but Eco continues to attack.

"Huff......"

After making the cute sound… Eco’s feet are wrapping around his leg.

Her legs, in knee socks, slid in between Ash thighs. The moment her soft thigh came into contact with his crotch his whole body shivers.

"No...... My body is so hot... I can’t stand it any longer." Eco gasped.

As she kept tugging Ash’s tie while lifting up her body.

Her half opened lips moving towards Ash’s cheek -

"Uwaa!"

Extending her tongue she gently licked Ash’s cheek. Like a dragon who wants to be spoiled by its master.

"...... Ah?"

At this moment… Ash spotted something – from Eco's mouth there comes a rose like smell.

"You...... Show me the inside!"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p004-005.jpg|thumb|'' "Is this...... alright!" '']]

"Is this......alright?" Eco says after she jumps down.

The usual Eco would ignore Ash’s order. This morning, however, it is as if she is now a different person. Her cheeks are getting redder and she stares at Ash’s face.

Being flirted with by her eyes… Ash saw Eco actually gently lift her miniskirt.

"... Huh?" Obviously Eco was confused about what 'inside' meant.

For the moment. Ash just couldn't understand what was happening right in front of him.

"You...!"

Ash almost falls backwards.

The thing clinging to Eco’s pure white skin almost caused his awareness to be swept away. That underwear, embellished with a lot of laces, was designed for adults!

Suddenly he came back to his senses… Ash obstinately holds Eco’s hands.

"What are you doing you fool! I'm not talking about the skirt. It's what's inside your mouth!"

"Umm... I know..."

Eco with a flushed face opens her mouth halfway.

Behind her pearl white teeth, a pink tongue can be seen.

"So this stuff is the culprit!"

On Eco’s tongue was a piece of round candy.

A strong Ansal smell went into his nostrils.

Even though Ansals are harmless to humans it brings a strong intoxicating effect to the dragons. Like drinking alcohol is for humans… Ansal’s smell brings pleasure to dragons.

The problem is that Eco is only a young dragon. Even with only a small amount of Ansal the result it brings is hard to predict.

"Come on. Quickly spit it out!"

"Nn....”

Eco exhaled a mouthful of heat, and firmly grasped Ash’s tie.

Don’t take Eco as just a petite girl as her strength is still like a dragon.

Ash, unable to do anything, can only let her pull him. - Eco, with Ash currently immobilized and his mouth half-opened, met it with her lips.

At the same time, Eco’s tongue breaks past the barrier.

"...!"

The two sticky and slippery tongues tangled.

The unimaginable shock makes Ash’s mind go blank and he is transfixed in place.

"Tee hee..."

Eco revealed a devil like smiled and slowly averted her face. During that time the candy has rolled into Ash’s mouth.

The mouth-fed candy has melted into half of its original volume, Eco’s body temperature still remains on the candy.

Ash was entirely entranced.

"You… Just now..."

His face is hot as if flame is going to burst out from it.

At the start Ash was concentrating too much on the mouth-fed candy. That is why only until now, Ash found their lips were sticking tightly together.

According to that… Wasn't that his and Eco’s first kiss?

"Nn....”

Suddenly, like a puppet whose string was broken, Eco fell limp.

She buried her face in Ash’s arms and fell into a deep sleep. Seems like the drunken Eco has finally fallen asleep.

"Really... She only knows how to give people headaches."

Just as Ash breathed a sigh of relief-

"..... In this position, between a human and a dragon, your behavior just does not sound healthy."

"Uwaaa!"

Hearing a surprisingly calm voice, Ash was shocked.

''- Glup!''

The candy in his mouth is accidentally swallowed.

"....Rebecca! Since when have you been here?"

Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest as she stood in the doorway. Her face is wearing a snappish smile
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p169.jpg|thumb|Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest as she stood in the doorway. Her face is wearing a snappish smile.]]

"Do you even need to ask? Of course… When Eco ran out of the room."

"Isn’t it that you were here from the beginning to end? Why did you stand on the side-lines and not come to my aid!"

"Well that scene was very exciting! Oh, Ash, by the way, that underwear Eco is wearing belongs to me."

"Yikes...!"

After hearing that… Ash cannot help but think about Eco’s exposed underwear.

Those laces flooded his whole mind, the material should be silk, right? He remembers the top has a unique gloss. It turns out that Rebecca usually wears those kind of underwear... After getting lost in his imagination Ash returns to his senses.

"Hey! That's not the point! I would like to know why Eco’s mouth was stuffed with that candy."

"Ahh. You mean that? That is my, self-prepared, personal snack. When she saw me licking it, on my palm, Eco came and begged for one. When I saw her eager face… How could I heartlessly refuse? "

"Rebecca, even when you knew the Ansal herb will have a negative effect on Eco, why did you continue to let her eat it?"

"Huu? ... I do not understand what you mean by that."

Rebecca exposed a playful smile and hid inside her room.

===Part 2===
Rebecca looked at the faces of all those who were present.

"Then let the meeting begin. Silvia will not be present for today’s meeting... So are there only three people left?"

She was correct. Right now. The ones who are sitting around the table are Rebecca, Max and Ash. The trio. By the way… Eco is lying on the couch.

The Vice president and the secretary still seem like they don't intend to attend this morning either.

"Right... Doesn’t it feel a little lonely?”

After Ash stated this Rebecca looked at him ridiculously.

"Any problem with it Ash? Are you so lonely when Silvia is not here? Is Rebecca onee-san not enough to satisfy you?"

"How could I dare to think so?!!"

Ash was too nervous to know what to do next. Max, right beside him, was also shocked but he interrupts:

"President. We do not have time. Please do not tease Ash anymore and quickly begin the meeting."

"Hmm. You’re right. Every time I see Ash… I just want to make fun of him."

Rebecca, with a bitter smile, returns back to the topic.

"As you have heard, Princess Veronica's condolence trip is going to be held this afternoon. Actually... We must represent the academy’s students by accompanying the Princess."

Ash senses something bad.

"The people who are going to accompany the Princess must be Max, Ash, Eco and I. This is Princess Veronica’s orders. We do not have the right to refuse."

Just like what he sensed… His bad feeling was correct.

"Princess Veronica has many enemies. If someone wants to assassinate the Princess they certainly will not miss this great opportunity. Even though there are the seven escorts, who are in charge of the security, we still should not neglect precautionary measures. We, as mere Dragner's, must also be mentally prepared to be able to protect the Princess when there is danger."

"Please. May I ask ..."

Ash timidly raised his hand.

"Is there a problem Ash?"

“Rebecca-san. You're not a 'mere' but a dignified Ark-Dragner. Max, also, is an outstanding Dragner but I'm just a humble breeder.”

"What nonsense are you talking about? Didn’t you also have the famous title 'Silver Knight'?"

"... That's not the kind of title I want. Even if you give it to me for free."

"But I think that it is suitable for you. Back to the topic... The next thing is the main point."

After changing the topic… Rebecca showed a serious expression and passed the information in her hands to Ash and Max.

That is commonly known as a 'Wanted Poster'.

The entire sheet of paper is full of the details of the criminal’s characteristics and looks.

The reward offered actually reaches up to one million Eccles<ref>The currency in this story. From a town in UK.</ref>. Compared to a normal reward this amount is excessively large.

"We received some information from a certain party that 'Avdocha the Convicted' has infiltrated Ansarivan. Everyone please be very careful."

===Part 3===
The revival operations are well underway. The noise and hustle and bustle of construction sounded off in St Durham’s Square one after another.

The sound of the roaring man supervisor.

The sturdy frame operator’s loud cry.

The knocking sounds of the hammers.

The Necromancia’s attacks had happened a full two weeks ago.

The Square had been razed to ruins and yet today the revival operation was going on smoothly.

Magicship Silvanus landed slowly from above the square.

Right after she safely alighted from the magicship… Veronica immediately, with a loud voice, announced to the public:

"Dear countrymen! Thank you for your hard work!"

On recognizing the heroic Veronica… The scene is suddenly full of cheers.

"Wow. It's the Princess Veronica Her Royal Highness!"

"To even think that Her Royal Highness will actually come to a place like this..."

"That armour really looks valiant!"

Every worker stops doing their work as they are all moved and full of tears. However. Veronica just stared at them fiercely.

"Who allowed you to rest?! Why are you bothering with my existence. Immediately continue with your work!"

At Veronica's loud voice even the earth would shake! Furthermore. The Asias that were brought to the construction site were also shivering.

"Yes. Princess!"

Though all the workers are burly, self-confident and brawny they now, all of them, felt particularly vulnerable and hurried to resume their own work.

The sense was more like a strict supervisor who came rather than a condolence visit. Ash, standing beside Veronica, cannot help but laugh bitterly.

Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco, the four of them followed along with the arrangements made in the meeting this early morning. They are accompanying Veronica as the student representatives.

"Hmm... There is something strange."

Eco from the start is looking around aimlessly.

Did she find out something unusual using her dragon’s intuition? If it is so, the situation they are in will be a serious one, it is most likely an enemy of Veronica.

"Eco? Is there anything suspicious?"

Ash, with a nervous voice, asks Eco but she then revealed an extremely unhappy expression.

"The crepe stall is gone."

"... Hu?"

"I said. I can’t find the stall selling crepes!"

Ash is dumbstruck. What Eco likes to eat most is none-other than the crepes sold in the stall selling crepes in St Durham Square.

"You tell me... What Crepe seller will do business in this construction site?"

"Wuhu<ref>Whining sound.</ref>...... My crepes..."

Eco is so disappointed that she showed a dejected expression. There are tears in her eyes whirling.

"Really.. I can’t stand you any longer. The owner must have moved his stall to some other part of the streets. Later we will look for it together… Alright?"

"Really?"

Once she had heard this… Eco immediately smiled dazzlingly.

"...!"

Her smile is like a full bloom rose of which Ash cannot help but stare at deeply.

"Something wrong?" Eco asked when noticing Ash's stare.

Right after Eco confusedly asked… Only then did Ash come back to his senses and, with an pumped up attitude, he cleared his throat.

"No. Nothing......"

In short. His bribery has been successful and Eco will, temporarily, quiet down. After all, he is now playing the role of Veronica’s guard with a heavy responsibility. Just in case this job was messed up by Eco, it would be hard for him to make sure that his head stays on his neck. Using crepes in exchange for the safety of his head… This price is nothing.

"Hmm. Using the strength of an Asia? A breeder who chooses to be a civil engineer is really rare."

"Y- Yes. I’m just lucky!"

At the same time, as Ash is trying to keep Eco calmed down, Veronica’s condolence trip is also being carried out smoothly.

Apart from the square the surrounding buildings have also been damaged by the Necromancia. Which is why many carpenters are working there right now.

The carpenter Veronica is talking to seems to be a breeder and at the side an Asia can be seen pulling a trolley.

When facing Veronica the fierce looking carpenter, due to excessive fear, looked very nervous. This scene is really amusing.

Looking at that the kind of laid-back scene Ash suddenly remembered the name that Rebecca brought up at the morning meeting.

--‘Avdocha the Convicted'

According to the report; She has the blood of a Tantalos. From a young age she has been doing guerrilla activities in the mountains. Later on she spread out from the mountains and was involved in terrorist attacks across the continent. She is very famous for her anti-establishment activity.

But five years ago, in the capital City of Fontaine, after Veronica’s assassination ended in failure… She was never seen again.

Some reports stated that such an activist is likely to stage a comeback for Veronica. Of course. The credibility of those reports are yet to be verified but still they must be prepared for the worst.

"Hey. Eco."

Ash gathered his nerve and whispered in Eco’s ears.

"... What’s the problem?"

"In case that I ran into a dangerous situation… Could you make me the Ark?"

"Well. Do you even want that kind of patch up work? I don’t mind, but, there will be conditions-"

"Alright, alright, no matter how many crepes you want to eat... I’ll buy them for you."

''Except for the ansal flavor crepes...'' Ash, in his heart, silently added just as the nearby church bell rang.

That's the bell to indicate one o’clock in the afternoon.

"It is already this late...?"

Listening to the solemn bell… Silvia's face suddenly emerges in Ash's mind.

The building around St Durham Square has more than one church.

At this time Silvia should be complying with Veronica's command by offering her prayers in the St Valeria’s church for repentance.

Just when Ash takes Silvia’s feelings into account, and his mood was subsequently depressed, something happened.

''-Boom!''

Suddenly. At the other end of the square. The sound of an explosion can be heard.

"W-What happened?"

Ash, surprised, looked at the other end of the square.

A thick black smoke is seen growing into the sky.

"It can’t be ...!"

The worst thought emerges in Ash mind.

The location where the black smoke emerges is St Valeria’s clock tower.

At the same time the explosion occurred the public, gathered in the square, started to scream and the crowded site degraded into a mess.

After all only a few days ago they were subjected to the Necromancia’s attack and, because of that, the present reaction of many people are particularly extreme.

“-Princess please return to Silvanus.”

At this time. Glenn’s voice is heard.

"You’re right." Said Veronica without blinking an eye.

As she just calmly nodded.

Ash who could not help but angrily interrupt said:

"Didn’t you see that church? Princess may be right inside there -"

However. Veronica coldly interrupts Ash:

"Don’t worry. From now on, I declare from this moment, Silvanus will become the strategic headquarters of this Operation. All of you… Please return together."

Even when her biological sister may be caught up in the bombings… Veronica’s calm attitude really pissed people off.

===Part 4===
Silvia arrived at the St Valeria’s Church.

Under Veronica’s order she did not even bring her maid Cosette with her.

St Valeria’s statue was positioned on the altar.

St Valeria is one of the Twelve Apostles who served St Rosa Maria.

In the denomination of Rosa Maria's bible St Valeria, is portrayed as a woman full of compassion and also, is the protector of law.

In addition to Silvia, there are also many people who come to the church. But most of them look like tourists. Those who are like Silvia, who have their own troubles, are the minority.

“St Valeria. Please forgive my imprudent actions."

Silvia knelt in front of the altar and began to pray.

"St Valeria’s..."

At this time, someone else right beside Silvia is non-stop praying.

That voice feels very familiar.

"Please bless me so that I will get pregnant with 'Silver Knight'-sama’s child......"

"What are you praying for?!!"

"Kyaa!"

''THUND''. That person is so shocked by the other roaring voice that she screamed and fell backwards.

Silvia carefully looked at her face.

"...I knew that it was you. Jessica Valentine!"

Jessica stood up straight and stares back at Silvia.

"Oops. Look at you… You're not with the Princess? I thought you were to accompany Princess Veronica for her condolence trip today."

"Err... Sorry to tell you that I did not accompany her!"

"Y- You. What are you getting angry about?"

"Give me a break! That is not the point… How come you're here?"

Jessica obviously does not understand the reason Silvia is so angry.

"Well. I just wanted to beg St Valeria to bless me for an easy childbirth..."

"St Valeria is a protector of law! You have looked for the wrong person! "

"Hmm, I’m not like the rest, I won’t even bother this small detail."

"What type of small detail is this?”

"Hm... If you keep on clinging to petty things like this… You will never be on equal footing with the Princess!"

Silvia, whose weakness is found out, suddenly became furious.

“What did you say? Outsiders like you will never understand!"

“Obvious at a glance- There is too much difference in both of your open-mindedness."

"Ugh! How shameless are you... To talk about someone else pain!"

"Oops. It is your pain? Oh… As a royal you are far behind Veronica-sama in your open-mindedness and as a Dragner your strength is far less than 'Silver Knight'-sama; I advise you to learn how to be a woman and you can take this noble’s daughter as an example."

"What did you say......?"

Silvia couldn’t bear with it any longer and her rational thinking had snapped. She felt that what Jessica implied was as if she is trying to persuade her to hurriedly marry Glenn. Although logically it is impossible for Jessica to know of her arranged marriage with Glenn but Silvia can’t care about the details so much.

"Ha! A mere Randall family’s servant even has the nerve to ask me to take her as an example? Even my toes are laughing!"

Jessica's face turns from red to white and back to red.

"Can it be Rebecca had told you...?"

"Don’t worry, under the president’s order, I will not spread this to the public. But. I would like to advise you to have a little restraint and stop falsifying your status."

Jessica lips tremble, she fiercely glared at Silvia.

"Then I’ll ask you... Can you can guarantee that your actions are never related to falsehood?"

"I-I..."

Silvia is also afraid that someone will see through her timid side which is why she is always pretending to be strong. As one of the Lautreamont Knight Country’s Princess' she is trying her hardest to play the ideal image of ‘This is what a princess should do’.

Isn't such behavior also taken as falsehood?

"Oops. Could it be that I hit the bull’s eye?"

"N-No. That's not it...”

Just while Silvia intends to voice a rebuttal-

''-Boom!''

The sound of explosion came from above.

The floor shook because of the impact as dust, sands and stones fall from the ceiling.

Judging from this evidence… There seems to have been an explosion upstairs.

"Kyaa!"

Silvia is so frightened she inadvertently clings to Jessica.

Maybe Jessica is equally caught up in the panic and she wraps her arms around Silvia and hugged her hard.

Silvia and Jessica’s screams are like a trigger which make the other visitors cry.

It is only one explosion but, from the original sacred atmosphere of the Church, it has instantly turned into a living hell.

At this time… A condescending shadow appeared.

"Who’s that person?"

Silvia's eyes widened.

Black hair and eyes, which were full of evil, glimmered.

Under the high degree of exposure folk costume, a nearly tanned colored skin can be seen.

The woman, like in a drama, began to speak:

"‘Blame the sin, rather than the sinner!’ What a joke. The fragile mind of a human is the root of all evil and all who are sinners will never escape death!"

''WHACK!'' The woman waved a toss of the whip that was in her hand-

"I shall be called 'Avdocha the Convicted’!" <ref>In this sentence she speak in an high and mighty form. It is very hard to translate so the simple form will be I am 'Avdocha the Convicted’.</ref>

Silvia became dumbstruck.

She remembers that name.

"How come... This person is 'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Silvia knew the existence of this anti-establishment activist. Long ago… She had also seen her 'wanted order' several times.

Her reward amount is up to one million Eccles.

However, the woman in front of her not only has face of a child, a petite body, and a childlike appearance which caused others not to believe she is a battle-hardened terrorist. This is totally different from the image in the wanted poster.

But the woman with a calm expression looks at the visitor.

Even when her body is petite she is still able to look down from up high.

That is because she was standing on the back of a basilisk.

Under the sight of the big rolling eyes that only a basilisk has-

''"Eek...!"''

Silvia and Jessica trembled.

The extreme fear causes them to not release each other’s hands.

--- Basilisk

Even though they bear a striking resemblance to lizards, their size is nowhere near a lizard. Although they are well known as a close relatives of an Asia, but judging from their body, there is not even a slightest hint that they have a Dragon's intellect.

To tame such monster after capturing it and ride it like a horse, no matter what, it will never be done by an ordinary person.

So the only explanation is… The woman in front is none-other than 'Avdocha the Convicted’-

"From now on, you are all hostages! Just don’t act rashly and I will not take your life! On the other hand... If someone dares to fight back… Don’t blame me if we use you to feed him!"

Followed by Avdocha’s order the basilisk made an earth-shattering roar.

===Part 5===
The atmosphere of the airship Silvanus’s navigation room was very tense.

The crew, led by the helmsman, are at their posts; They were ready to take off at any time.

"Huhu... It is hard even for me to tolerate this… Glenn."

Veronica who is smiling while sitting on the captain seat said.

"Yes. Veronica-sama."

Glenn seriously nodded in agreement.

Apart from the escort’s captain Glenn who is by Veronica’s side, the other six escorts are on their dragons responsible for the protection of Silvanus.

Under Veronica’s order Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco - the members of the student’s council - also gathered in the navigation room.

"Hey.... Why can you be so calm? The church that Princess is in was attacked!"

Ash, unable to restrain his emotions, questioned.

Veronica on the captain’s seat comfortably cross her legs and teased;

"You're too inexperienced Ash. During the Necromancia’s attack, were your emotions this unstable? If it is so, then you were just lucky the last time- you'd better give some deep thought about it or else you cannot guarantee your own life."

"What did you say?"

"Veronica-sama!"

At this moment, the communication sergeant interrupted Ash while looking back at Veronica.

"There is a signal from St Valeria’s Church!"

Beside the communication sergeant’s hand the bright dragon crystal, next to the magic communicator, is shining.

"Connect to it."

"Understood!"

The magic communicator continued to flash for a while then a projection appeared in mid-air.

"-!"

Ash gasped. Even though he knew that this is a type of oracle he had never seen such method. The technology must have been imported from the Empire.

Although there is a lot of static noise the scene shown on the screen looks like the interior of the St Valeria’s church. – St Valeria’s statue set on the altar statue proves this fact.

The only thing is, the screen didn’t show the hostages. Of course, that does not rule out that Silvia could have been abducted.... Which made Ash anxiously clench his fists.

At this moment… The projection screen suddenly shows a woman's face.

『 "I shall be called 'Avdocha the Convicted’. Wait, since we are already familiar with each other, I don’t need to announce my name… Right Veronica?"<ref>This is also spoken in an high and mighty form.</ref>』

"You're right. So could you quickly tell me what your demand is?"

Veronica shows the calm demeanor of a royal family.

"She is...'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Ash's eyes widen and he turns speechless.

Seeing her childlike face Rebecca, Max and Eco seem to feel the same as Ash. All of their faces looked stunned and skeptical.

Because between her looks and the arrest warrant they received earlier… They are apparently two completely different characters.

The portrait in the arrest warrant looks like a 24-year-old with a sharp look like a she-leopard. Which gave the feeling of a veteran guerrilla soldier......

『 "I’ll let you have a look at this first!"』

The screen suddenly focuses at another person’s body.

The altar of the Rosa Maria’s religion is magnificently decorated with its symbolic totem wing like crucifix. However, there is a person tied to the winged cross.

Ash and the others turn speechless and not just because of Avdocha’s fetishes.

"Jessica...?"

Rebecca who knew her since childhood muttered blankly.

She is not wrong. The one tied on the winged cross is the president of SKFC-Jessica Valentine. Of all people. Evidently she seems to have inadvertently become a hostage.

"That’s t-too much!"

Ash's lips are trembling.

Jessica is actually only wearing her underwear.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p190.jpg|thumb|''- The Head of Valkyrie!'']]

Apart from her underwear and knee socks the rest of her clothing was mercilessly stripped away.

The humiliated Jessica is desperately struggling to hold back her tears.

Not only that. There are also squiggles on top her bare belly that reads:

''- The Head of Valkyrie!''

"That. Is that blood text...?"

"No. that does not look like blood. It should be something like lipstick.”

Rebecca swept away Ash’s worry.

"Hmm... To even use hostages as a meat shield to make me offer my head. She is really an insatiable woman." Veronica calmly remarks.

Even after witnessing Jessica’s inhumane treatment, Veronica is still easy going.

At this time, the screen slowly moves downwards, and the altar is shown.

"...What is that?"

Ash frowns.

Around the altar, there are black objects that give the impression of a ''"machine"''. Although it is an extremely strange and rarely seen thing they are filled with a dangerous atmosphere that can never be found coming from equipment within the church.

From the screen Avdocha’s voice is heard again:

『 "As you can see we have a bomb set up in the church. This is an Empire made mechanical bomb. Once detonated, the church will immediately be blown to pieces. Also. I am a person who has no patience. Every time the bell rings. I’ll kill a hostage."』

"What did you say...?!"

Ash excitedly clenches his fists.

She is threatening that every hour there will be someone who will lose their life.

Until the next time the bell rings… There is only around fifty minutes.

『 "Hehe... I can’t wait to see your head when it is off your neck Veronica."』

Once finished with these words the communication was terminated.

It seems that Avdocha stopped it herself.

"Your Highness. What should we do now?"

Rebecca asked, but a sneer is shown on Veronica’s mouth.

The coldness of her sneer, caused Ash’s hair to stand up straight.

"I’ll never compromise with terrorists. If we face an emergency situation we’ll use the main canon of Silvanus to blow up the whole church."

"What ..."

After hearing this emotionless declaration Ash felt as if he is punched from the back of his head.

Even when she knew that Silvia may also be inside the church. But...

"You are really...!"

Ash finally understands the reason Veronica is given the title 'Ironblood Valkyrie'.

===Part 6===
The time is moved slightly backwards---

Nearly a hundred worshipers were taken hostage along with Silvia. Of course, due to unexpected events, they are trembling endlessly while still trying to grasp the situation that they are in.

The terrorist’s mastermind is 'Avdocha the Convicted’.

There are nine soldiers surrounding them.

The nine soldiers give off the feeling that they are from the mountains and are large, muscular men. They are dressed in their folk costumes; With an eagle looking mask on their face and equipped with the mountain people's usual whip and shamshir<ref>Half-moon shaped dagger.</ref> dagger and others. The nine men seem to be loyal to Avdocha. In contrast to their savage like looks, they accept orders just like any regular army soldiers.

Avdocha’s objective is to defeat Veronica. She probably wants to take advantage of the 100 hostages to achieve this goal.

''"is there nothing that we can do?"''

''As the Knight’s Royal Princess… What can I do?'' Just when Silvia thought this, her first thought is the intention to expose her identity as the princess.

"As long as I identify myself, we could ask them to release the hostages......"

It is not an exaggeration to have this idea because she should have her own value as the princess.

''If she can use a person's freedom in exchange for the safety of the public… Isn't this a very good bargain?''

"I will never allow you to do this!"

Surprisingly, Jessica actually tries stopping Silvia. When she heard Silvia talking to herself, she with a low voice advised her to give up on the idea.

"Once they know that you are Princess Veronica’s sister there’s no one who can guarantee your safety."

"The problem is... If I am the only person who will be sacrificed and these people can be saved -"

"Do not look down on others! I never had the intention to sell you out for my freedom! For I'm Jessica Valentine!"

At this time, Avdocha who was originally busy giving orders to the men, suddenly turned around and look back at Silvia and Jessica.

"Well, well, well.... There is someone who has the leisure to whisper around even when they are in danger. You really have guts to be doing that."

She took the reins of the basilisk and moved closer to the two. The basilisk with its heavy steps gives a pressuring feeling; Silvia is almost scared out of her wits.

However. Jessica is the opposite.

She stood up from the spot.

"I am Jessica Valentine!"

"So?"

"Don’t look at me like that. I'm a well-known noble! Out of respect for me… Can you promise that you would never harm the other hostages?"

The heroic act gave Silvia a hard hit.

In such a situation… She actually had the courage to claim herself as a '''noble'''...!

Avdocha sitting on the basilisk’s back, her eyes narrowed into a crack.

“Noble? I've never heard of the Valentine house... Anyway. We appreciate your foolhardiness; I’ll now give you an important task! Arrest her!"

Two of Avdocha’s men came forward without a word and held Jessica from both sides. Without any explanation they dragged her to Avdocha.

Like a comforting thought Silvia imagines that there is nothing that needs to be worried about.

However what unfolded in front of all hostages was a tragic scene.

Jessica clothes were torn and stripped off. Then, Avdocha, personally took a lipstick and wrote on her belly '''The Head of Valkyrie!’'' 

Jessica from the start to the finish didn't moan once and not even a drop of tears flow out from her eyes. She just gritted her teeth and bears all this but it is not difficult to tell what she is experiencing.

Finally. Jessica was taken to the altar and tied to the cross.

"Jessica... I've misunderstood you. In fact. You are a lot nobler than a true noble."

''-Compared to me. I-I’m...... Actually weak and incompetent.''

She could use her identity as a Dragner and fight back...... It is not that Silvia doesn't have this idea; the problem is, as long there are hostages, there is no way to summon Lancelot in the church.

This space in the church is too small for Lancelot to use its skills.

''"Damn... Why am I... This useless?!"''

Apart from sitting down, together timidly with the other hostages, in addition to unable to do anything, Silvia deeply hated herself.

===Part 7===
''"'Avdocha the Convict'? How can this be possible ...!"'' Anya murmured.

Anya, who is disguised as a flower girl, is mixed amidst about a hundred hostages inside the church.

In order to prevent her men, who deeply hated Veronica, from taking any actions Anya also infiltrated Ansrivan. She only went to the St Valeria’s Church to gather information but was unfortunately drawn into Avdocha’s terrorist act.

'Avdocha the Convict' is a legend in the mountains. Since she was lost in a military operation and there were no more rumors about her anymore. So many thought that she had died...

Anya since her childhood had already heard her name and looked up to her. Avdocha have left her village with numerous heroic legends.

Of course, this is the first time Anya saw her.

She had only seen her portrait in the wanted poster in the past at best.

The beauty on the wanted poster is a perfect match with the title 'Avdocha the Convicted'.

The record breaking reward amount, one million Eccles, is also a stunner.

But the person herself is not the case.

''-I actually didn’t expect that she had such a petite body...Logically speaking… Her actual age should be around the twenties.'' Anya thought to herself.

That aggressive basilisk who was tamed and obeyed her, that is the best evidence that she is likely Avdocha. Because in Avdocha’s heroic legend, the basilisk didn’t just play a small role.

However, from Anya’s point of view, there are too many things that don’t fit.

''- Such a terrorist act... Is nothing but foolhardy.''

In this world… There are plenty of rebels who recklessly sacrifice their own life. The Tantalos tribe, since a long time ago, seems to be popular with suicide attackers.

However, judging from the rumors spread on many parts of the mountains, at the very least, Avdocha is not that kind of reckless person.

Not only did she led successful fights, one after another, in the end, she always survived. - Because of this… Avdocha had become a legend.

Even when the ''‘killed in action’'' message is well publicized people still think that ''"maybe she is still alive somewhere in the world"''. That is the part that makes Avdocha so scary and also adds some style to her legend.

Against such legendary figures it is impossible for her to do such a foolhardy act......

Anya feels that instead of thinking about these problems she should worry about her own safety.

''- Yes... In fact. What is she going to do next?''

Since Avdocha had already set the time limit they will die if they just sit still.

Don’t forget each time the bell rings… One of the hostages will be killed...

How about if she revealed that she is also from the Tantalos tribe. Even she did think that… -Anya quickly waved off this idea.

She is a veteran.

Such people will not take Anya in as her companion just because of the same skin color. To act rashly will probably end up with a harsh lesson like that Jessica Valentine.

Although under Milgauss' help the mountainous people's dispute was finally able to calm down but there are a lot of Tantalos family who gave up their home and choose to come out from the mountains. Which resulted in many people, who are not from the mountains, with the same skin color as Anya increasing.

Moreover. There are the rumors:

Princess Veronica established a force consisting of foreigners and she intends to use a different army system for them than from the Knight's army. They are also for other uses.

Also there seems to be many mountain people who are included in the group.

''-I shouldn’t act rashly or else I’ll be suspected as a soldier from the foreign force......''

Even though she was disguised as a flower girl… But she is still Avdocha. Perhaps she may recognize Anya had once undertaken military training at a glance.

''- If that is so. Then the smart move is to temporarily blend in with the hostages and see what’s going to happen next.''

After concluding all that Anya is hugging her knees with her hands and her head is buried in between them. This way she will not need to face Avdocha directly.

If she can just avoid doing any unsightly behavior, no matter how many times the bell sounded, Anya will never be so unlucky and be killed? After all. The number of hostages are as many as 100 people......

But god is never gonna let her get off easily.<ref>This is a proverb.</ref> Beside Anya there was a mother shaking while holding her baby. Maybe because the baby sensed her mother’s anxiety, the look on it's face was as if, it is going to burst into tears anytime.

''- Please be good...!''

Anya immediately pulls her cheeks and began to coax the baby.

"Chaa...♪"

It is probably that her act is funny but fortunately the baby gave a happy grin.

She silently felt relieved, even within her heart, but at the same time she starts to hate herself.

''- What am I actually doing...?''

===Part 8===
Rebecca suddenly speaks to Veronica.

"Are you going to send someone to negotiate?"

Veronica seems like she is interested in this proposal and looks to Rebecca.

Even when the person she is speaking to is Veronica, Rebecca is still without fear, and gracefully stated her views:

"We must not use the main cannon of the Silvanus until the very end. I think we should make this our trump card and only use it when we are left with no other choice."

"Alright, we’ll follow to according what you had said."

"Thank you, Your Highness."

"The question is who will become the negotiator?"

Rebecca with a confident smile responded to Veronica.

"Public order of Ansarivan, since ancient times, is maintained by the Student Council so I think we should send someone from the council. If it is just a student I think they will let their guard down."

Hearing Rebecca's rhetoric, Ash feels anxious.

Since Silvia was taken as hostage, and the vice president and secretary are nowhere in sight as usual, the candidates left behind are the trio of Rebecca, Max, and Ash.

Of course, everyone knows that Rebecca is the most suitable person for this task, but -

"I recommend Ash Blake as negotiator."

Rebecca has made a very surprising recommendation.

"Huh?"

Ash suspects he had heard it wrongly.

"That... Rebecca-san. You are serious about it?"

Just when Ash is at loss, Eco interrupted Rebecca.

"Are you kidding? Do you want to let this guy go alone into such dangerous place?"

Facing Eco who is in fury, Rebecca replies her with a playful smile.

"Could it be that you are worried about Ash?"

Eco suddenly blushed.

"T-Th-That. How is that possible? What I’m protesting about is that you don’t have the rights to order my meat slave!"

Once those words were blurted out… The atmosphere in the navigation room immediately froze.

Even those officers who are in charge of the steering and the communication secretly peeped at Ash as if he is a suspicious person.

"Wait! Don’t talk any nonsense that’ll make people misunderstand!"

The ‘meat slave’ that Eco means is someone who will present their own flesh to their owners when they are hungry. But, by no means, were those officers imagining that kind of meaning.

But the situation right now did not allowed Ash to explain himself just because everyone threw him a suspicious glance.

Finally. Veronica broke the silence.

"Well... I didn’t think that you are actually Eco’s meat slave. I admire you have some backbone."

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding!"

Veronica looked at Ash who is desperately denying.

"Is there anything to be shy about? Isn't it that meat slaves are those who give their own flesh for their lord when they are aware that their lord is at the risk of starvation?"

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding... Huh?!"

Ash is stunned.

"You are really strange. If there are any other meanings… Why don’t you speak it out loud?"

Veronica is with a serious expression. As if she only knew this meaning.

Eco and Veronica's thinking seems to have something in common.

"Yes. you're right! That’s what Eco’s meat slave means!"

After Ash grasps the opportunity to explain… The atmosphere of the navigation room finally calms down. Finally. Ash is away from those sharp glares and he let out a sigh of relief but the most fundamental problem is not yet solved.

"In short, without my permission, you'll never be going to send him there!"

Eco, who is stubborn, refused to back down.

Like her. Rebecca looks like she isn't in a hurry.

"Logically speaking, it is supposed to be my duty as president to go there –“

"Then you just only need to go to solve this problem!"

"The problem is that I cannot go because the terrorists should know that Rebecca Randall is an Ark-Dragner. If I was chosen as a negotiator it's likely that I’ll be ignored."

What Rebecca said is not unreasonable. If Ash was with the terrorists he’d also not greet Rebecca with open arms.

"So Ash, do you think that you can do it? There is a time limit, but you still have an equal strength as an Ark-Dragner. Nevertheless. You are also the ‘Silver Knight’."

"Don’t joke around. This burden is really too heavy for me!! No matter what… I’m just an ordinary student!"

"That’s right. It can be presumed that the other party also sees you as an ordinary student. So this is the advantage."

"The problem is..."

"Don’t be afraid. Even if it is dangerous, Eco will defend you. Am I right, Eco?"

"Don’t you just simply speak in place of others!"

"Oh! So you mean to say that you cannot protect Ash? Is the Ark you made so fragile?"

"I, I didn’t say that! Don’t you dare look down on my Ark!"

"Then. Can you protect Ash?"

"Of course!"

Eco confidently lifted her chest.

Ash can only smile.

Rebecca’s technique is really amazing. He doesn't know whether it is fortunate or unfortunate but Eco did not even notice that she had fallen into Rebecca’s trap.

“Don’t worry, Ash, even when is Eco protecting you… I will not be bold enough to send you into the enemies’ den alone."

Rebecca, suddenly with a gentle smile, stretched out her hands and gently rests them on Ash’s shoulders.

"Huh?"

The distance between the two is so close that they can sense each other's breath. Even when it is an emergency situation, Ash still could not help but blush. A fragrant aroma could be smelled.

"I will wait for an opportunity to attack the church. It is just that I’ll not be doing the same thing as you. With the Ark, it's child’s play to break into the church through the foundation."

"Foundation?"

Ash at that time doesn’t understand what she means.

"So, this is it!"

However. He then realized Rebecca's intentions.

First, Ash is sent into the church to act as a negotiator to stall for time.

Rebecca, on the other hand, is using the tunnels below to gain access to the church.

Next they’ll use the oracle to blast through the foundation and surprise Avdocha.

"President! Please let me participate in your plan!"

Max shouted.

When the Necromancia attacked the city Max was good for nothing and became a burden. He probably would like to take this opportunity to clear his name.

Rebecca immediately rejected.

"Sorry Max, this time, you won’t come in handy."

"... What?!"

Max, burnt out like a candle in the wind, stood motionless.

Ash understands Rebecca’s intentions; he knew she did not mean to ill treat him.

Max, who still remains in the stage of a Dragner, can only show his true colors when he is riding his dragon he. However this battle must be done in small scale and the large body of the dragon will only be in the way.

The Ark-Dragner who can use the oracle specially for the Ark is very suitable for this kind of combat.

Rebecca was right, despite the time constraints, Ash has that ability.

Thanks to Eco’s power Ash can give it a try.

Since he has this ability, what should he do to fulfill his responsibility -

Ash made up his mind.

"I’ll go, after all, Princess is waiting for us to save her."

"Well then. That's more like it."

Rebecca with a smile of appreciation, turned back to face Veronica.

"Do you think this strategy is practical, Your Highness?"

Veronica on the captain’s seat shaking her other leg, gave a satisfied smile.

"Very well, Rebecca. We will make use of your combat strategy, but I do not want to let talented people like you to go on an adventure alone, I’ll let Glenn go with you."

"Captain Glenn’s combat power is what I sought for."

Rebecca agreed immediately but Glenn opposed it.

"Veronica-sama, I’m the escort’s captain, is it really appropriate for me not to be beside you -"

"What are you talking about? Glenn?"

Veronica whispers in Glenn’s ear.

''She is most probably asking him to personally rescue Silvia who is bound to be married to him-'' Ash thought.

Like a confirmation, to Ash’s prediction, Glenn for a moment exposed an unpleasant expression.

Glenn, since he came to Ansrivan, always remains with expression Number 1. So such changes must be really rare.

Anyway, Glenn after all is a loyal servant to the king.

"...Yes. Princess."

After he respectfully bowed… His normal poker face returned.

Ash of course does not agree with that absurd marriage but now is not the time to protest.

"Hey, Eco, can we make a deal?"

"Why?"

Ash stood next to Eco and quietly whispered.

Since the other party possessed the Empire made bombs countermeasures must be prepared in advance.

"...Can you do it Eco?"

Just as Ash expected, after listening to his combat strategy, Eco is puzzled.

"Huh? How do I know whether I can do it or not?"

"No. You can do it."

Ash with confidence smile at Eco.

"...?"

Eco simply did not expect that Ash would smile at this time and she fell into a confused silence.

"Remember the last time we fought the Necromancia? At least this opponent is a human. No matter what, it won’t be as difficult as last time."

"Well... perhaps it is like that this time."

"I’ll be looking forward to your performance. Eco."

Then, Ash placed his hand lightly on Eco’s shoulder.

"I-I know but… I’ve a condition-

“Crepes right? After everything is dealt with… I’ll bring you back to look for the stall."

Eco slightly lift her neck and looked up at Ash.

"...You still remember?"

"Of course I remember. Because you are my Pal."

''"W- Why does Ash even have this type of aura around him...!"''

Even when Eco angrily turned her face to the side… Her ears were still all red.

===Part 9===
After alighting from Silvanus Ash passed through the evacuated St Durham Square and moved towards St Valeria’s Church.

On the way there, Ash suddenly remembers the tie clip.

This was given by the communication officer before he departed.

Inside The tie clip, even though it looks ordinary, it has a small piece of Bright Dragon Crystal and it will send the sound it received back to the Silvanus' navigation room.

To put it bluntly. It is an ultra-micro magic communication tool.

Only then Ash realized that this type of machinery existed in this world.

Who would think that he would actually take on such a chore? Ash cannot help but secretly cry.

But Rebecca’s analysis is very reasonable; He cannot deny that he is most suitable person to play this role. After all Ash as a student, is unknown to the public but at the same time he has the same combat ability as an Ark-Dragner.

''"Forget it. Anyway. Boats eventually straighten when they reach the docks."''<ref>It means just to 'follow the flow'.</ref>

After he finishes thinking, he thrust his hands into the pockets of his pants.

He maintained his speed and continued to walked forward.

Rebecca and Glenn should now have departed towards the church through the underground tunnels.

Just when Ash is 20 meters from the main entrance of the church...

''-Shoo!''

Beside his ears, a whizzing sharp sound is heard and the stone on the ground is followed by a "''pop''!" strange sound.

"...?"

Only after a full few seconds does Ash realized that someone was shooting at him!

''"Are they the ones who fired the shot...!"''

At the church’s window on the second floor are two snipers. They were armed with weapons that he suspected to be Empire-made sniper rifles.

''Is Avdocha working with the Empire’s army? Or, are they using what they recover from their fights with the Empire...?''

Let's put the origin of the weapons aside; the shooting just now is clearly a warning. If the sniper had the intention to kill, that shot probably would have killed Ash.

After realizing he is one step away from death, Ash gave a cold sweat. But at this time he cannot retreat.

Because Silvia is a hostage being held inside the church-

''"Do not be afraid...Eco is protecting me."''

After Ash pumped himself up, he shouted toward the sniper:

"I’m Ash Blake and I’m here on behalf of the Student Council! Please let me in to negotiate with you!"

Even Ash does not think he sounds convincing but the ‘Student Council’ in this academy town holds a great position.

Since Avdocha is one of the leading activists she should know about this background knowledge.

"......"

They didn’t respond. However. One of the snipers disappeared from the window. From a positive perspective Ash hopes that they are afraid of the student council.

''"Well... How are they going to make their move?"''

Ash, hands in his pocket, patiently waited for the results.

After a few minutes. - "''Crack''..." The door, with a heavy sound, slowly opened.

===Part 10===
Once he passed through the door, Ash was soon surrounded by three masked soldiers.

After checking his items he is led to the altar.

Fortunately. The soldiers did not notice the tie clip and Ash is secretly relieved.

"Oh... So, kid, you are the negotiator?"

In front of the altar Avdocha, riding on the back of the basilisk, looked down at Ash.

Although Avdocha called him a kid… Doesn’t she think that her appearance looks a lot more childish? But, at this time, Ash shouldn’t correct her.

"I am the student council representative for General Affairs. Ash Blake."

While declaring his name, at the same time, Ash quietly observed the whole place.

A half-naked Jessica was still tied to the altar’s wing cross.

Because she is not moving Ash thought that she was dead. Though, with a closer look, there is still a sign of breathing in her chest.

It seems that she just lost consciousness. The red text written on her belly is more shocking than what is seen through the screen.

On the other hand… The hostages, that lined the walls, along the sides were quiet.

Ash found Silvia in a corner, thanks to the eye-catching academy uniform, Ash is able to find her.

"...!"

Silvia with a stunned look stares at the Ash.

Ash nodded slightly, for Silvia to be at ease, and his sight moved back to Avdocha.

"General affairs? It seems that I’m looked down upon."

"Even if it is our president who personally came to negotiate, would you even let her in? You should also know that our president is an Ark-Dragner?"

Avdocha laughed.

“Hehe... You talk too much. Say… What you want to negotiate about? Our request, a simple one, is Veronica’s head. As long as you obediently hand over her head, I’ll immediately release all the hostages. If not we will blow up the church. Things are just that simple. Are they not?"

"You really think we will accept such a request? She is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie'. If desperate enough that person would not hesitate to use the main cannon of Silvanus to blow this church, together with all the hostages, into ashes."

Once Ash blurted that out the hostages immediately began to become restless.

"What did you say?"

"Does Veronica-sama intend to do nothing about us...!"

"Disregard for human life!"

Avdocha cold sight shot through the panicked hostages.

"Silence!" With a loud sound enough to shake the earth.

Everyone kept quiet instantly.

"Is the purpose of this trip is to make the hostages panic? I’ve never seen such a foolish negotiator."

"I was just declaring the truth. If you continue to delay you will all lose your lives in vain!"

"Do you think this threat will be effective?"

"I do not think so since I've heard a lot about what you have done... That’s why I do not understand why would you do such things?"

Avdocha did not directly answer the questions. She just change the subject.

"So be it... I’ll tell you about my past."

"What did you say?"

The unexpectedly development cause Ash to be caught unprepared.

"In fact. We have been looking for my sister that has disappeared for quite a long time."

"Sister?"

"Yeah, but, I still do not know whether she is alive or not. It's because of the mountain disputes that caused our separation."

Is she trying to arouse the sympathy of the people? Or that she has some other purposes?

"... What happened after that?"

Ash tried to maintain a sound-calm-look while urging her to continue.

"What I want to say is this. Talking about this... I heard that Veronica has three sisters. I would like to let her feel the pain to be separated from her sisters."

Ash feels that he has goosebumps.

''Damn. This situation is very bad.''

Ash finally understands why Avdocha deliberately brought up the sister topic.

Because she wanted Veronica to also tasted the bitter feeling.

Silvia, once she is exposed, Avdocha is likely to not let her off.

Unfortunately, there are no signs that Rebecca and Glenn are about to break into the church.

''- Are you alright Eco...?''

Ash with a desperate feeling focus his attention on his left arm’s ‘Seikoku’.

With this 'Seikoku' Ash and Eco are able to communicate.

''- Eco... Can you hear me?''

Eco does not respond.

===Part 11===
- Dragon Workshop

This is but a space used by dragons to create their works. Even though Eco only has some knowledge about this space there is no doubt that this place is different from the real world.

If the real world is defined as the physical world, then this can be compared to the spiritual world. Since they are not bound to the body anymore they can imagine freely. With some effort, flying to the sky is not a problem-

Once Ash entered the church… Eco sent her spirit to the Dragon Workshop. Her true body is protected in Silvanus's navigation room so she does not need to worry about the safety of her body.

The floor is paved with white and black square tiles.

On the wall, there are many works left beside by her ancestors hanging there without any order. Just like a museum of black and white.

"Welcome to the Dragon Workshop."

As usual. The woman called Navi comes forward to meet Eco.

"You again..."

Eco with a bored look stared at Navi.

Frankly… Eco is not good at dealing with her.

Today Navi is wearing a dark red dress and sitting on an antique chair.

When I grow up. Will I become like her? Eco hated to look at her. Even her horns are different from Eco's as both of them are sharp and pointed.

"Isn't this only the second time we've met? How could that slow pace, of the two of us meeting, make you feel tired?"

"Hmph! I don't even want to come to this place!"

Eco impatiently talks back to Navi’s teasing.

''Sure enough. I have this headache whenever I meet this woman.'' Eco worried.

"Do you not have even a little desire to create? As I have told you; Dragons are born craftsman. Do you really not want to help him -Ash Blake- create an original Ark? "

Eco’s cheeks suddenly felt hot.

"D-Don’t joke around, why would I want to help that guy...!"

"Well… I think he is a very great guy! Since 'every dragon would surrender to him' he is also very mysterious. You too… Quickly grow into your 'true from' and let him ride on you... Then you may be addicted to that feeling."

''“'True From'?”''

Eco suddenly feel uneasy.

"What do you mean? In other words… My current form... Is just a deception? In the end… Why was I born in the human form?"

A flirtatious smile emerged on Navi’s face.

"Because the human form is also the real you."

"...?"

"But you are eventually a dragon and also Ash Blake’s Pal. I hope that you can soon be'' 'awakened' ''."

"Weird. Somehow every time you talk… I feel a fire emerging in my belly!"

"Hehe... Sorry. I seem to like to tease you. Back to the topic. You are here in order to complete your mission… Are you not?"

"Hmm... Yeah. That guy asked me to prepare a suitable Ark against the Empire-made bomb."

"He intends to use the power of magic against machinery? Well… Here we go."

Although she is very unhappy with Navi’s long-winded behavior… Conditions do not allow her to continue to waste her time in useless dialogue. So Eco closed her eyes and summoned the large number of designs left behind by her ancestors.

The total number of these designs is well over a thousand.

What Eco can do now, is to extract the parts which are suitable for Ash and re-build it into a new Ark suitable to go against the Empire-made bomb.

Although it is only an 'extract and re-build' it will still consume a huge amount of magic.

It will cause a huge burden on the young dragon Eco.

Even so. For Ash, who is in the enemy’s den, and also for her favorite crepes, Eco can only try… -

===Part 12===
Anya, who was mixed into the crowd, noticed something uniqe and her eyes widened while her thoughts went rambling on.

''- That guy-!''

''The ‘Silver Knight’ who successfully controlled the Necromancia-''

''The one who has potential to become Milgauss' enemy in the future-''

''This guy not only came into the church as a negotiator but he also revealed his own name.''

''"The student’s Council’s representative for General Affairs-Ash Blake is it...? I’ll remember your name."''

Even when out of nowhere she was caught in Avdocha’s terrorist act, which caused her to fall into despair, but it was also a blessing in disguise because now she knew Ash’s name without putting in any effort.

The only thing is, she has to leave this church alive, otherwise there is no meaning behind this. Not only each time the bell rings, they will kill a hostage… Veronica is also outside aiming the Silvanus' main cannon here.

So the first task is to get out of this dangerous place alive.

Once any event that is not expected by Avdocha happens it is a simple thing for her to escape.

In order to grasp this opportunity she must make herself ready......

"Chaa... ♪"

The thing is… Anya is now carrying a baby.

- She's the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’. If she is desperate, that person would not hesitate to use the Silvanus' main cannon and turn this whole church together with the hostages into ashes.

After hearing Ash’s announcement the mother, beside her, was so scared that she lost consciousness.

Fortunately. Anya had good reflexes, and she managed to grab the baby, and narrowly avoided the disaster of the baby bursting into tears. The problem is that now the situation is still in a critical point.

''"What can I do......"''

After Anya muttered with a sigh her chest suddenly felt numb and almost straightened her body.

It turned out that the baby stretched its arms to reach out and touch Anya's breast.

''- M-My breast. Even Milgauss-sama had never touched them before!''

The baby is probably hungry and wants to drink milk… Anya naturally cannot produce any milk and yet the baby's mother is still unconscious.

''- What is your mom doing! How could this be possible just because she lived in the peaceful days for too long!''

At the same time Anya is cursing in the bottom of her heart as the baby starts to fondle her breast.

All of a sudden it squeezes it with its hands and the next moment it rubs them with its face.

Compare to its mother’s breasts Anya’s are a lot smaller. Maybe the baby is troubled with the difference between the two?

Finally. The baby actually bites Anya’s nipples through the clothing.

"...... Ah!"

Under the strange sensation… Anya came out with a weird noise.

This voice causes her to blush with shame.

"Don’t you dare ask for too much!"

Anya quietly scolded it and forces the baby away from her chest.

Unexpectedly. The baby turns sour...

"Woo Woo ... ''hick…'' ... Waaaaaa!"

It suddenly burst into tears.

Anya looks ashen, even when she tries to please the baby, but it is a complete failure. She can’t be blamed for this because… She has never taken care of a child

''- Damn...... if Avdocha......''

However, in only five seconds, Anya’s worry has become reality.

"So noisy...... Can’t a mother of the Knight country discipline her child properly?"

Anya, still hidden in the crowd, feels her whole body stiffening instantly.

"Since it's too noisy… Why don’t you release the women and children?"

The boy named Ash steps forward to help but Avdocha just laughed him off.

"How can I? Moreover… The first bell is going to ring soon. I have been always punctual; Let’s just choose the baby as a sacrifice."

"Are you kidding? Are you even human? It is just an innocent baby!"

"Do you think there is time to care about the age of every opponent on the battlefield? If you are careless, it should not surprising, there will be a day that you will be killed by a five year old kid!"

"Even if it is like this-.”

As if to prevent Ash from saying anything the basilisk gave a ferocious deep rumbling growl.

"Grrrr......"

Once Avdocha heard the growl…

She laughs and answered back. "Hmm. Is it so…."

"What's so funny?"

"Hehe... It says that baby is just enough to wet the teeth. Well then. Bring me the mother and her child!"

After Avdocha gave the order two masks soldiers immediately take action.

''- I-It can’t be!'' Anya is horrified.

Avdocha actually want to feed the wing lizard with her -and- the baby......

One step, two steps. The soldiers move through the crowd and are coming nearer.

Since their expressions cannot be seen under the mask, many people shudder.

“Uuu..."<ref>Voice of being scared.</ref> The crowd moans.

Anya is scared and begins to shed tears.

Even when Anya has cheated death for a few times, and is a vetran, she still can't withstand Avdocha’s heavy pressure. Her mind instantly turns blank.

The soldiers are closer now.

''"I can’t be saved anymore...!"''

Just when Anya gives up hope-

"Hold on!"

A loud voice echoed in the church, someone came forward to stand in front of Anya.

The first thing that emerged in Anya’s eyes is a dazzling golden hair.

The person, in the dragon riding academy’s uniform, protected Anya and the baby and declared to Avdocha:

"I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia. I request, as a member of the royal family, for you to immediately release the mother and its child!"

===Part 13===
The voice in the church, through the magic communicator in Max’s hand, can be heard in the airship Silvanus' navigation room

『 "I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia. I request as a member of the royal family for you to immediately release the mother and its child!"』

The moment Silvia exposed her own identity… Max became dumbstruck.

"What the hell is Her Royal Highness doing...?!"

Isn't she inverting the root and branch<ref>Proverb.</ref>? As a result, it is essentially giving Avdocha the trump card.

"Hmph. That idiot..." Veronica muttered.

But. She didn’t show an unhappy expression.

On the other hand. It looks like she is smiling.

===Part 14===
''"That's our country’s Princess for you!"'' Silvia, who took the initiative to expose her own name, of course surprised Ash though in his heart he has other thoughts.

Because in this case, in order to save the mother and her child, unless Silvia came forward, there would be no other way.

"Hmm... Why bother? If you had kept quiet… Then you might not have been noticed."

Avdocha controlled the basilisk’s reins and approached Silvia.

"I- I am a Princess! How can I sit quietly and watch my people be killed!"

"Hehe...... How appealing, but, how come your body is shaking like that?"

"This is because my fighting spirit is trembling!"

Even as she verbally did not admit defeat Ash could see that Silvia is obviously trying to be brave.

"Is it so. Let me see how brave you are?"

Avdocha's face gave a dark smile while her hand stretched out signaling her underlings to act. The underling pulled out a shamshir and respectfully handed it to Avdocha.

"Stop!"

Ash wanted to rush out to protect Sylvia but is stopped, by Avdocha’s underlings, and is held from behind.

"You idiots! Let me go!"

No matter how hard Ash struggles the soldiers didn’t give the slightest stir. Even 'School’s number one problem child' is no match for a veteran soldier.

"Hehe...... you have good luck, your location is just right at the VIP’s seat.”

Avdocha with a grin said that, and rode her basilisk as it slowly moved forward.

The distance to Silvia is gradually shortened.

Finally, in front of Silvia, the basilisk used its tongue to lick at Silva’s face.

"...Eww!" Even Silvia could barely hold back her screams.

Though apparently she has long been scared out of her wits.

“Look this way Silvia!” Avodcha gave a thunderous shout

Perhaps she is already prepared as Silvia opened her arms to both sides.

Then. She makes a declaration:

"To die like a knight...... Is what I wish for!"

"I admire your guts!"

Avdocha lifted the shamshir.

"Stop-!"

Ash’s scream cannot stop the merciless blade.

''-Shaa!'' As the blade passed through the air.

Killed.

Silvia was killed.

Ash lost hope.

===Part 15===
"...?"

Silvia is still standing.

There is no blood on her body.

The incredible thing is… Silvia did not even feel the pain.

The next moment- Silvia found out that the tight uniform is no longer binding her.

Pieces of cloths like snowflakes are dancing in the air.

Silvia felt seriously humiliated.

''"...Why is it always like this!"''

Avdocha didn’t slash at Silva’s flesh nor bones- but... .

Only her clothes, like an apple skin, are peeled off and her almost naked body lay exposed.

Coincidentally. The same thing was recently done by Veronica.

Her body, which is only covered with some clothes and underwear fragments, displays an almost naked type of half-nakedness.

Silvia covers her chest with both hands while squatting in place and huddled into a ball. She knew Avdocha’s sight is focused right on her bare skin.

"Princess! Didn’t you desire to die like a knight? Where is your previous pride? You are just exposed naked to the public and you change back to what ordinary women and children do? I almost threw up! You don’t have the right to become a knight! And. It is not worthy for me to kill you! "

"I... I...!"

Being looked down by Avdocha from the very start… Silvia’s emotions were gradually reaching a boil.

At the same time, though, she is trembling more than ever.

But it is not because of fear that she is trembling. She is trembling because she is full of fighting spirit.

''"-... This woman was right. What do I have to feel ashamed about? This has no different from any ordinary woman or child? And I even dare to call myself a Knight...... It will just make people laugh! Although I do feel regret… I just need to admit it. I don’t have sufficient awareness. No wonder anee-ue scolds me......!"''

''"-Be aware of yourself… Silvia Lautreamont! What’s my aim? An excellent knight? That is indeed one of my goals in the past. But I was asking too little from myself. Have to think quickly. I'm Silvia Lautreamont! What is the only realm that I can reach? To show her the future that only I can have!"''

At that moment… Silvia's mind received God's enlightenment and she suddenly found her answer.

"Phew... Avdocha. I'll have to thank you."

Silvia suddenly wore a happy expression and Ash was shocked.

Even Avdocha who already turned her back on Silvia was surprised.

"Are you mad?"

Avdocha ridiculed and gave a laugh.

Silvia covered her chest with her hand and graceful stood up from the ground.

"Princess ......?"

Ash wants to avert his eyes from Silvia's naked body but his eyes refused to move.

It is not because he has any indecent thoughts.

It is because of a bright shining glow that made him reluctant to avert his sight.

Avdocha and her subordinates, as well as the rest of the hostages, are like Ash. Everyone's eyes are watching Silvia.

"Avdocha. You are the one who made me aware of how weak I am and what lack of awareness I have."

“So? I’m only speaking based on the truth."

“However. I never before noticed such obvious things. It is a real shame to say so... However. '''I have been reborn!''' The past me is already killed by your sword! The new Silvia is now reborn! "

"Oh... I'd like to ask to ask; What can a reborn Silvia do?"

Avdocha look at her fiercely.

The basilisk gave a frightening breath.

Even so… Silvia did not be budge.

"I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!"<ref>King of the Knight country.</ref>
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p233.jpg|thumb|"I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin"]]

Silvia’s declaration echoed in the church loudly.

"Hee… hee… haha! Even I didn’t expect this answer... You want to become the Paladin? What nonsense! So, in order to achieve your goals, you have to try to break through this dilemma. Well. What are you gonna do?"

Unexpectedly. Silvia laughed.

"Nothing. I had said that I’m gonna become the Paladin! There are people supporting me from the back and I also have anee-ue as my family. I just need to believe in them and wait for the 'upcoming moment'!"

"Haha. Don’t you think that, before before something like that happens, I can take your life away so easily?"

"If I die in your hands… It just means that I’m just so-so."

Just when Silvia heroically makes the declaration... -

There is a terrible shake and just then, in a surge of raging magic, a hole is neatly cut through the floor of the church.

"Sorry to keep you waiting Ash!"

Equipped in their Ark Rebecca and Glenn jump out from the large newly created hole in the floor.

“-Enemy ambush!” Avdocha’s men shouted.

The soldiers, in a blink of an eye, move into formation and attack Rebecca and Glenn. Even the one who is holding Ash is no exception.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Right after Rebecca summoned her magic spear Glenn follows by summoning his Ark-Dragner’s personal Ark-weapon.

"Appear! The lightning speed magic sword! Caladbolg!"

Ash’s eyes widened.

''"That's Glenn’s personal Ark-weapon......!"''

The magic sword Caladbolg is a giant sword with its length is comparable to Glenn’s height. Glenn, without much effort, swung the sword just the afterimage of lightning speed. No wonder he is Veronica’s escort’s captain.

"Hmph...... An unsightly person!"

Even when she curses them Avdocha's is still able to smile. Ash cannot understand how she managed to stay calm.

At this time… Avdocha suddenly jumped off the back of the basilisk and rushes toward the back of the altar.

"Is she...!"

Ash, who realised what she is going to do, clenches his teeth. Even when he wants to continue chasing, the basilisk blocks his way.

The basilisk's eyeballs, as it manuvers in the way, rotate and continue to stare at Ash.

"Hehehe. Don’t forget I still have the bombs. It is your loss."

Avdocha at the back of the altar proudly laughs.

The reinforcements, Rebecca and Glenn, are still fighting the enemy soldiers. As worthy of the people of the mountains they successfully pin down the Ark-Dragners.

Of course,if Rebecca and Glenn show their true ability, in the blink of an eye they would be the winners. However, if they don’t hold themselves back, they will not only kill their opponents but all the hosteges too. Even the whole church will be destroyed!

''-What am I going to do?'' Ash was in a dillema.

If the stalemate continues… Then Avdocha is going to press the button. No, before that, he has to deal with the basilisk or else he can’t get himself close to the altar.

The problem is that for an unarmed human to win against a basilisk it is indeed a fantasy.

''"Shoo......"''

In that instant. The basilisk issued terrible breath and started stomping around.

It moves its limbs with high-speed and, like gliding on the ground, it rushes towards Ash.

"Ha…?’’

Its speed surprised Ash. Although he is conscious about it his two legs refused to move. Ash is jinxed to become a statue as his whole body involuntarily stiffened.

"Uwaaaa!"

Ash helplessly screams.

The basilisk is right in front of him opening it's mouth.

In his mind there is a clear image of him getting bitten into pieces and broken into two main portions.

''"My God ...!"''

Silvia quickly covered her eyes. She did not have the courage to face the scene of Ash being shredded by the beast.

''"I... How could I be so weak? Where did I get the idea of becoming a Paladin......!"''

Silvia slumped to her knees.

''Sniff''...... Her tears fell off from her eyes onto the stone floor which was gradually becoming wet.

"Oh... A divine light...!" A hostage with a praising tone muttered.

At this time there is another who noticed.

And the others around him are affected.

"...?"

Silvia wipes off her tears and raises her head.

A pale white light filled her entire field of vision.

After a short moment, the light can no longer be seen, there is a hot surge emerging from Silvia’s chest.

“Ash......!”

Equipped in the Ark Ash, with one hand, held up the basilisk’s upper jaw.

===Part 16===
Ouch. The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand is so hot.

His consciousness is almost swept away by the powerful magic.

''『 "- Sorry for the long wait."』''

Eco's voice finally can be heard in his mind.

''"It's so scary... Do you know that I was nearly eaten by this thing."''

Ash, who now can feel the Ark’s magic, smiled brashly.

He looked down to re-examine his own body and he sees a set of blue colour Ark which made him remember Silvia's eyes.

''"Thank you. Eco."''

''『"D-Don’t need to thank me... I'm not doing it in order to help you. It's for the crepes okay!"』''

Eco cheeks are bright red.

"How is this possible? You are also a Ark-Dragner? How did we miss this information-?"

While witnessing the dazzling Ark, with a look of surprise, Avdocha’s almond eyes widen.

"My Pal is different from the others!" Ash shouts!

At the same time Ash lightly pushes the basilisk’s chin. The basilisk is stunned by Ash as its previous imposing attitude had vanished.

"You are very obedient. Well. The beast seems to be very sensitive to stronger opponents."

While Ash steps forward the basilisk, simultaiously and obediently, steps back.

"I’m stronger than you! If you are from the Asia’s, if you have some intelligence, Quickly be on your knees!"

Frighten by Ash’s voice, at first it is anxious to know what to do, then letting out a scream, it knelt down.

"That's right."

Ash gently sat on its back.

"Ah! What are you going to do with Kuu-chan!"

Avdocha screams.

“Kuu-chan? Even when you look so scary… I didn’t think that you had such a cute name."

Ash gave a wry laugh. Kuu seems embarrassed and lightly twists its body.

"It seems that the situation has reversed. Avdocha. Let’s go Kuu!"

Being kicked by Ash Kuu gave out a roar and starts running towards the altar.

"Hey Hey, Kuu-chan! I’m your master!"

Avdocha who is panicked simply looks like a child.

While sitting on Kuu’s back, Ash is searching for the information regarding his Ark-weapon.

Soon… A strange weapon design is spread out in his mind.

After checking the properties and the additional effect of the weapon Ash gave a satisfied smile.

Eco managed to do what Ash proposed.

Kuu, like an Asia, kept running forward.

The distance to the altar is quickly narrowed.

Avdocha’s face also turns pale.

"Appear!...... The absolute Zero Holy gun-"

A extremely long gun emerges, out of thin air, under Ash’s summon.

Its shape is similar to the Empire made sniper rifle and yet also is like a spear.

The aim is locked at the altar.

While pulling the bolt. '' 'Kacha' '' At the same time, as the metal sounded off, the magic ammunition had been loaded.

"Brionac!" Ash yelled.

While, at the same time, pulling the trigger.

A magic bullet shot out from the muzzle followed by a loud sound. The heavy bullet shell casing is ejected with a ''‘Clang’''. It then hits the ground and rolls.

"Uuu ...!"

The shot created a powerful recoil which almost caused Ash to fall from Kuu’s back but, fortunately, he has his blue Ark and is sill sitting firm in the saddle.

At the same time the magic bullet is shooting towards the altar and a pale blue flash can be seen.

“Kuu. Retreat!”

Kuu, listening to Ash's order, quickly turns and runs in the direction opposite of the altar.

"What!"

Avdocha cried out in dismay.

After the freezing magic was launched… Shining ice crystals can be seen coaleasing.

The ice crystals gradually increase in size and quickly engulfed the entire altar together with the bombs.

"A-Avdocha-sama!"

Not only that… Avdocha’s men are also mercilessly frozen while being caught up in the effect..

"Finally......!"

Ash smiled.

To fight, against the Empire made bombs, experts are required. Even though Knight Country, and the Kingdom, had many exiled scientists from the Empire the problem is not enough time to recruit and train them.

If that being the case… It is better to risk trying to use the oracle’s power to freeze bombs to the point they are disabled. This is Ash's basic strategy.

Ash asked Eco to produce an Ark with ice properties.

Needless to say… This idea is obtained when he was in the Silvanus' lounge reading the novel ‘The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'. The protagonist in the series ‘Silver Knight’ uses the frozen magic to interrupt the operation of the machine.

Of course, Ash can’t guarantee the actual effect. He can only gamble- at least at this stage the bombs that have become ice have ceased functioning.

"W-Wait a minute! I-......"

Avdocha was barely able to move from the relatively wide range of the ice round's frozen effect. In the end… He does not escape the inglorious fate of becoming an ice statue.

What he needed to be worry about is, before she became completely frozen, Avdocha seemed to have something to say. But, in short, the St Valeria’s church incident has ended.

===Part 17===
Up to a hundred hostages were released.

Avdocha and her men, who had become ice statues, were carried out with the help of the civil engineers. Those veteran soldiers, in the end, had become ice and were dragged off by the Asias on a cart. Only the word pitiful can be used to describe them.

Since Kuu was Avdocha’s pet it was also taken away by the escorts. Ash silently prays, in hope that, Veronica will treat it well.

More importantly, he now needs to complete the task that is at hand.

Even though he knows his actions are wrong, Ash still climbs up the icy altar and starts to rescue Jessica who is tied to the winged cross.

Fortunately the freezing magic did not spread to Jessica. Just that, in order to avoid looking at her naked skin while trying to save her, his job is quite difficult.

When Ash finally cut the rope and with both hands carried Jessica -

"Nn ..."

Jessica in Ash’s arms slowly opened her eyes.

Right after she found out that Ash is carrying her. Her eyes widen.

"Y-You...... You are Ash Blake? Why...... Are you in an Ark...?"

"Huh? Err… No. This is..."

Ash regretted his mistake.

He simply did not think that Jessica would regain her consciousness so soon.

Ash did not know how to remove the Ark. So, before Eco’s magic runs out, he can only continue to wear it.

Clearly there is no way to continue to hide the truth anymore, Ash can only give an excuse to explain it.

"... Yeah. The 'Silver Knight' is me. It is just that today my Ark is not silver in colour."

After Ash honestly confesses, Jessica’s cheeks turn red.

"To use ice attacks against those mechanical bombs is simply ‘Silver Knight’ himself! Waa-wah. Ash-sama!"

"Sama?"

Ash is stunned. Jessica eyes are now watery.

Moreover. Jessica is only wearing her underwear. The cleavage, made by her breasts, can be clearly seen. Even under such occasions, Ash cannot help but being seduced. In front of the beauty that is Jessica… The even blue Ark's strength cannot come in handy.

"I have been determined, for a long time, that my first time will be at the church altar."

"What lies! It is obvious that you had just thought about it!"

"I beg you, Ash-sama, please give me your sperm now...!"

Somehow, Jessica really began to take off her underwear on the spot, and the first thing she actually takes off is her panties instead of her bra.

"Your order of taking off your underwear is too strange, or it should be said, who even asked you to take them off!"

Ash quickly held Jessica's hands to stop her.

"Do not worry."

Jessica sexy lower abdomen is slowly exposed. Eventually, even the following parts are-

"Stop! This is too casual!"

"I'm ready, Ash-sama... Her goddess St Valeria is also staring at us."

"Her goddess Valeria is a protector of law! We will be arrested!"

"Hee hee... I didn’t think that you were so introverted."

Jessica's sweet smell is disturbing Ash.

"Uuh!"

Ash inexplicably feels dizzy; and almost falls down from the altar together with Jessica.

At this time, Rebecca speaks to Ash from behind.

"Hey, Ash! Hand her to me, you go and take care of Silvia."

Rebecca had long removed her Ark and is helping the escorts to do their tasks and should be very busy. However she probably saw that Ash is in trouble and could not bear just being a bystander.

“Sorry to trouble you. Rebecca-san."

Ash hands Jessica to Rebecca.

"Ah, ahh, Ash-sama, please stay!"

"S-Sorry... See you next time!"

Ash put Jessica’s regretful sounds aside and ran to look for Silvia.

Along the way the Ark breaks into sparkling fragments.

===Part 18===
Silvia is standing against the wall.

Her body is wrapped in blankets given to her by the escorts Her naked body, that has been exposed not long ago, is now wrapped up tightly. The thing is… Her curves can still be seen. Ash, after putting in some effort to not focus on those curves, finally spoke to Silvia.

"Yo. Princess. Err... Are you okay?"

Ash, suddenly becoming lost, can only squeeze out those few words. It's a bit embarrassing.

"Ahh. I’m not injured...... You saved me again."

"My performance is nothing much but, rather, Princess you are so cool."

"Y-You... What are you talking about!”

Silvia, who is blushing, probably has lost all her strength. Unsurprisingly she suddenly stumbles.

"... Careful!"

Ash was ready, and immediately reaching out, caught Silvia's body.

The blanket wrapped around Silvia’s body slips off and flutters to the ground.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash looked at the place above her neck and timidly asked.

He instantly thought that he would not escape her iron fist… But, for some reason, Silvia did not show her usual angry expression. Ash then sets her down on her feet.

"S-Sorry. That…. My waist ... I just suddenly..."

Silvia's eyes filled with tears as she quickly grabs the blanket and wraps it around herself.

If Ash did not catch her in time she would probably have fallen.

"Otherwise... I’ll give you a piggyback."

"Huh? But..."

"You don’t have to feel shy."

Ash smiled back, turned around, and gently lifted Silvia.

Silvia felt embarrassed at the start but, shortly after that, she held onto Ash’s neck.

At that moment… Ash felt that Silvia breasts, pressing on his back, change their shape.

"...huh!"

"What’s wrong. Ash?"

"N-Nothing ..."

While being unexpectedly stimulated, blushing and at the same time, Ash continue his pace.

===Part 19===
On her way, to the magicship Silvanus, while being piggybacked by Ash.

"...?"

Silvia is suddenly struck with an incredible feeling.

''- Why is this? Being piggybacked by Ash… Somehow I miss this feeling... Am I familiar with this back...?''

This nostalgic atmosphere is so strong until Silvia can barely hold back her tears.

''The only thing is, the gentleness of Ash’s back, it's just too comfortable -''

Silvia, without realizing, dozed off.

"Paladin ~ A. B. S. 1365.5 ~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2

2014-02-12T02:35:15Z

Aoi uchuu: Added caption. Changed armor back to armour. (They can mean the same thing but armour sounds more romantic.)

==Chapter 2 - Ironblood Valkyrie==
===Part 1===
The following morning, Ash was having his ecology class.

As usual, Eco in her uniform also attended the class, but since the class lecture is too abstruse…...

"Huff… Puff ...."

She was fast asleep on the table.

"……In other words Strada’s element is wind, Asia’s element is wind/earth and Hydra’s element is water."

The one standing on the lectern, lecturing all the students, is Professor Angela. She has an unusual concern about Eco as a researcher, Ash did not wish to let her gain opportunities to approach Eco…...

"Well. What is the Maestro’s element?"

Angela questioned with a stern tone, and her eyes fell on the name list.

"This question….. Let's have Princess Silvia answer it."

Even after she had been called out by Angela… Silvia just gazed blankly outside the window.

"Princess? What’s the problem?"

Angela continued to question her, but Silvia remains silent.

"Geez...Jessica Valentine, please answer."

"Yes!"

Jessica who was named stood up from her seat energetically.

"A Maestro’s element is light."

Jessica proudly replied, but Angela sneered back.

"Correct answer… Although I would like to say that, unfortunately, I can only give you half the marks. A Maestro’s element is light, but that's not just that, Maestros also completely inherit the element that it was born with. In other words. A Maestro, who was once a Strada, has both light and wind elements……”

"Hey. Ash. Is anything wrong with the Princess?"

Raymond who was not paying attention to Angela’s explanation asked Ash.

Ash sighed.

"She...... Since she heard that the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is coming to Ansarivan she always seems to be distracted. It looks like she received some great impact…..."

Raymond seems confused.

"‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is the Princess’s elder sister by blood. Right? What possible impact could she receive from that message?"

"About this. I’m not sure......"

"Do the two of you need my explanations?"

Suddenly someone interrupted their conversation. Ash was shocked.

“Cosette? Why are you here?"

Cosette, sitting obediently in an empty seat, was also wearing the standard uniform for maids who are serving the royals. It was hard to not notice her.

"Hehehe. While her Royal Highness Princess is dispirited I must guard her quietly from the shadows. I also have received the permission from Angela-sensei."

"You call this quietly from the shadows...... However. It really matters to me about the reason that she is suffering."

"You are concerned about her as her classmate? Or as a man?"

Ash suddenly felt his cheeks turn hot.

"Y- You. What are you talking about! Princess and I had fought alongside as comrades and we are both members of the Student Council. It's normal that I’m concerned about her."

"Are you sure? Then I take it that you are telling the truth. Hehe."

Cosette, after her mischievous smile, jumped back into the topic.

"Her Royal Highness Veronica is a well-known warrior. She has a militant-like attitude. Which is also the reason that Princess was forced to do a lot of training when she was young."

“The training. Was it tough?"

"In fact…... I’m not exaggerating if I say she was living in hell every day. The Princess had not only been pushed into lakes she was also sent to the ruins to do exploration, climbed the city walls or was brought to well-known haunted forests to learn to survive in the wild... "

Ash is dumbfounded.

"I think that is plain bullying..."

"Incidentally. I played the role of the ghost in the forest."

"Come on! How come you are also one of the culprits!?"

''Perhaps Silvia's timid side is because of Veronica (and Cosette)…'' Ash thought.

"Because of the shadow of her childhood, Her Royal Highness Veronica has become a symbol of terror in the eyes of the Princess......”

"I see…..."

Leaving alone her violent attitude, it seems that Veronica has a lot of personality problems. Ash, as one of the Student Council members, you will undoubtedly meet this downright "difficult" Princess no matter what.

Just by imagining it… Ash had a headache.

Raymond muttered with a grin:

"The title ‘Ironblood’ is not just for show. However. Ash...... I also like women who are strong."

"Don’t you worry. I won’t ever care what kind of girl you like…..."

"…Strada, Asia and Hydra… What conditions do they require in order to become a Maestro?"

Even when Ash was troubled, Angela’s lesson, of course, will not be interrupted.

"Ash. Please answer this question."

"What? Me?"

Rather abruptly called. Ash appeared to feel embarrassed.

Angela's sight was as sharp as a scalpel. Just by being stared at by her made you feel like you were lying on the operation table waiting to be butchered.

On the other hand, that dangerous glare, at the same time, seemed to fall on Eco, who was sleeping.

Ash's spine shuddered. From his seat he silently stood.

“Uh-h…... I don’t know."

"Correct."

"I'm sorry... What? Correct?"

Angela revealed a playful smile.

"That’s right. About the reasons the dragons transform into a Maestro, there are different opinions among scholars, the truth has yet to be found out."

Angela closed the textbook and looked around the students.

"However. The old record shows that all dragons will eventually become a Maestro naturally. Although from the verge of extinction the number of Maestros dropped significantly, but logically, each dragon should qualify to become a Maestro."

The students immediately turned into quite a storm.

It was also the first time that Ash heard about it.

"That is why the existence of a Breeder had become a problem. Why now in the modern times, dragons that died before they become a Maestro had become the Majority...... Perhaps. The key factor of becoming a Maestro is in the hands of a Breeder."

The school bell, that announced the class dismissal, sounded at that time.

Silvia, under Cosette's assistance, shakily left the classroom. While Ash had an uneasy feeling.

"The Princess is alright… Right......?"

There are six more days before Princess Veronica’s visit……

Even though Silvia still can’t calm down the days of Princess Veronica’s visit are nearing.

Why did Veronica choose this period to visit Ansarivan?

"Officially 'This visit is to inspect the Ansarivan City which was under attack' but according to rumour Veronica is a representative of the Royal Knight’s Hawks."<ref>骑士王室鹰派 lit. "Hawks Division of the Royal Knights".</ref>

The inspection should be a cover. The true reason was to investigate the condition of the city and the strength of the Necromancia. - This was Rebecca’s point of view.

In fact. Veronica had been involved in the strife between races all across the continent and she has the experience of stopping a war.

It is said that she was only twelve years old during her first expedition.

Even though she was not selected to become a Breeder, Veronica, who needed to overcome her congenital condition which put her at a disadvantage, was extremely powerful and braver than anyone on the battlefield.

She led the way and charged forward chopping down the enemy mercilessly one by one.

There is a rumour, that whenever Veronica swung her sword, three heads were sent flying through the air at the same time.

Wise and strong.

Victorious and has never been at a disadvantage.

There is no swordsman whose skill is on par with her.

Veronica became famous after she killed a basilisk with just her sword alone. Even poet laureates turned her achievement into poetry. Basilisks were big violent lizards. Others see them as the next of kin of an Asia.

The famous Veronica was given the nickname ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ by the people.

According to Rebecca, once the people heard that Veronica was coming to Ansarivan, people suddenly frowned.

Veronica, in order to extinguish the flames of war on the continent, heroically fought in the war in her teens. However she had also indirectly become the cause of problems.

Veronica unconsciously made a lot of enemies.

The remnants of the rebels still wanted to take Veronica’s life. It was not surprising that she could be assassinated at any given time.

Just right after the attack of the Necromancia another difficult task was received. Anyone can tell that the chief of Ansarivan is now in trouble.

===Part 2===
The midday bell rang loudly.

Led by the mayor and the principal, the important figures of the City Council & Academy Council and also the members of the Student Council...... A welcoming group of more than 20 people was lining up at the entrance of the school’s first block waiting for the arrival of Veronica.

"For Princess Veronica to visit the city personally...... How long has passed since her previous visit?"

Dr Angela Cornwell, who changed her usual white robes for her rarely seen formal dress, also joined the welcoming party.

Angela, who unexpectedly became a lecturer recently, was in fact a national treasure that is given a high authority in doing research.

Although all the representatives of Ansarivan were gathered together, for the occasion of welcoming a princess, such numbers were regarded to be on a very small scale. Logically speaking… Even mobilization of all the members of the public to hold a grand welcome ceremony would not be unexpected.

However. Veronica was well known for her preferences to keep things simple. They even received prior notice, to dispense with all the complicated ceremony, so even the school was operating as usual.

The Students’ Council was represented by Rebecca, Max, Ash, as well as Eco. Not only that but also the figures of Maestro Cú Chulainn and Maestro Arianrhod could be seen.

Cú Chulainn is Rebecca's Pal and is also truly the Academy’s strongest Maestro.

His silver fur was really dazzling and its unbelievable growth making him unable to put on any mounting gear on his mammoth like body. It makes anyone who saw him stare dumbfounded.

On the other hand, Arianrhod is Max's Pal, although he is already a noble Maestro, but his age is still that of a child. Different from the imposing Cú Chulainn, he is surrounded with an atmosphere that makes people want to pamper him.

"Hey, Eco, are your really...... Are you, too, going to welcome Princess Veronica?"

"What? Do you have something against it?" Eco quipped.

Eco joined the welcome party as the mascot of the student’s council and was wearing the same black dress that she wore during the ceremony before. It seems she has taken quite a liking to it.

That aside, it was the problem with Silvia that made people a lot more worried.

"The Princess, is she really not coming?"

After hearing Ash’s question, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders and sighed.

"Look, if she was scared to that extent, we can't possibly force her to participate in this. Right? She seems to have some considerable trauma regarding Veronica."

"It is really hard to believe that she turned out to be so afraid of her own sister..."

"Who's afraid of what?"

The person who interrupted Ash was precisely Silvia herself.

"Princess…!"

City Council and the School Council immediately bowed respectfully upon the appearance of Silvia.

The Silvia with her status as Princess generously replied "Thanks for your hard work" and approached them.

"Are you all right now?"

Immediately after Ash spoke to her, Silvia exposed a smile brimming with confidence.

Not only did she look pumped up but also her hair was a lot more glossier than ever. Despite wearing her uniform she looked a lot more dashing than her usual self.

"Who do you think you're talking to? I'm Silvia Lautreamont! Even though I had displayed an unbecoming side of mine, before, but now I’m alright."

"Is that so?...... Then I’m relieved."

Although it was surprising that she looked a bit too well… For now that should be enough to be assured.

While Ash was thinking that to himself Rebecca lectured her in a stern tone.

"How can you be so insouciant? Silvia, as a Dragner, how can you meet your sister without Lancelot?"

Lancelot is also a Maestro. Silvia's Pal. Because of the attacks from a few days ago Ash has become very familiar with that dragon.

"Sorry that there was no prior notice...... Anee-ue, she doesn't really like Lancelot."

Silvia’s answer made Rebecca frown.

"Is this related to Veronica not having been chosen as a Breeder?"

"Well...... It should be something like that."

After throwing a glance at Silvia, who gave such strangely ambiguous answer, for some reason, Rebecca revealed a merciful smile.

"If that is so let's leave it like that."

"...?"

Ash couldn't understand what Rebecca was thinking.

At that moment all the adults began to chatter something.

“I can see it!”

"Oooh! That is Princess Veronica's......!"

"They were even able to make such a vehicle!"

"It seems similar to an Empire-made<ref>For those who don’t know Empire is Zepharos Empire and Kingdom is Chevron Kingdom.</ref> airship ...!"

Ash, too, couldn't help but curiously look up into the blue skies.

A foreign body, that could not be natural, appeared near the edge of the cobalt blue sky.

As the minutes ticked past it grew, from the black dot of that foreign body, as its outlines were gradually revealed.

That flying body was escorted by seven Dragners.

"...... It couldn't be!"

To Ash’s dismay he couldn't help shouting out loud.

By comparing it to the dragons flying alongside one could immediately get a feeling of the actual size of the gigantic ship. In contrast to the huge flying object even the dragons, that served as the guard, looked just like beans.

Standing beside Ash, Rebecca, looking sternly, said:

"That is Princess Veronica’s personal plane. - The magicship ‘Silvanus’."

===Part 3===
—Silvanus.

This is done by Princess Veronique who gathered all the exiled scientists of the Zepharos Empire which successfully developed the beta version of the ship.

Silvanus, looking like it was going to occupy the entire open space, slowly landed in front of the school’s block. Like a bird that lands on the lake… The landing was very stable.

The magicship design is widely based on a streamlined shape which often makes people think that it's a Maestro with outspread wings.

The red lines together with the white colour armour produced a stunning appearance.

And attached at many locations on the body of the magicship are the cannons’ trapdoors.

Ash staring at the magnificent magicship dumbly.

He had heard so much about Silvanus but this is the first time he witnessed it with his own eyes.

"This thing is just too big…... How can it fly?"

Seeing that Ash was transfixed in his place Silvia explained:

"This magicship uses Bright Dragon Crystal as fuel. Anee-ue, even though she didn’t become a breeder, utilizes the combination of Dragon’s magic and Mechanical Engineering technology from the Empire to construct the Silvanus."

"So, literally, it was the Oracle’s power that allows it to fly......!"

"That is the way it is. But the only thing that can be used as fuel is a special type of Bright Dragon Crystal called Millennium so there is no method of mass production."

“Millennium?"

"The dragon fossils in the ground, after a thousand years, may produce crystals with massive power.

"I don’t even know about this......"

"It's just that, Silvanus, compared to an Empire made aviation ship, not only it has a small size, but also the defense has some problems. The places where the armour is weak can only be reinforced by Dragner. You have already seen it right?'

Silvia was right, as just now, the seven Dragner serving as escort precisely landed each of their dragons on the ground.

Out of the seven Dragner only the leading one is with an Ark and likely the escort’s captain.

"Veronica is going to alight the ship so please do not whisper." Rebecca, with a low voice, scolded them.

Ash and Silvia had no choice now but to keep their mouths shut.

As the crowd watched, Silvanus's door slowly opened, accompanied by operating noise of it's gears, the boarding ladder was automatically lowered.

Under the gaze of everyone-.

The Ironblood Valkyrie, escorted only by the sound of her footsteps, was just like iron being hit with a metal hammer, landed on the ground.

Ash gasped, his eyes fixed on Veronica’s figure.

''Even though called a princess… She looked more like a Valkyrie'' Ash thought so.

It is not surprising that she is Silvia’s sister as the two of them looked identical.

Their dazzling blond hair and white skin is their most common feature.

However. The aura, that her tall slender figure emits, outshone Silvia.

The important thing is her eyes.

Like an eagle, who fixed on its prey ,from up high.

Her eyes are as sharp as blade. Just by being stared at by her it feel like the heart had been thoroughly pierced through.

Flipping over her red cloak… Veronica with a loud voice said:

"Thank you everyone who came here to welcome me. Sorry for the trouble!"

That voice was powerful like a highly resilient whip.

When the cloak is flipped up, instantly, the armour on Veronica’s limbs was exposed.

Obviously they are crafted with steel being heavy and yet dazzling. Only then Ash realized that the unusual sounds of footsteps are the sounds of her sabatons<ref>Foot guards or iron boots, generally not found on most armour.</ref>.

She wore a broad sword which apparently required both hands to wield. Presumably that sword is the weapon that drew the blood of numerous rebels and the basilisk.

Veronica, now led by seven escorts, was marching towards here.

A group led by the mayor panicked and wanted to kneel down and salute, but Veronica with a disgusted look on her face waved them off.

"Please forget about those unnecessary and over-elaborate formalities. More importantly… Where is Silvia?"

With the speed of a hawk’s eye she quickly scanned the faces of the crowd.

“We haven’t meet for a long time. Anee-ue. "

Silvia answered Veronica’s call by stepping forward.

"We haven’t met each other in four years, two months and twelve days my dear sister."

"From the day I left the palace to come to Ansarivan for my school enrollment… We haven’t met each other."

The way Silvia speaks with such fluency is calmer than what he expect.

Ash quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

However-

The next instant, Ironblood Valkyrie revealed her true nature which matches with her nickname.

"I'm really disappointed. Silvia!"

Veronica raised her right hand.

Just when he thought that Silvia was going to be slapped, the next second Ash witnessed an incredible scenario.

Silvia easily avoid Veronica’s palm and more easily jumped five meters off. She even did a somersault in mid-air gorgeously landing on the ground.

No matter what… That doesn’t look like a skill of a normal human.

"Are you mad. Anee-ue?"

Silvia smiled haughtily.

For Ash, at least, that it's the first time seeing Silvia laugh that way.

"How dare make fun me...... It seems like you had borrowed some guts from heaven. Faker!"

After a moment of silence… Ash cried out in dismay.

"Fake!?"

"Whew…... I already knew such thing."

Rebecca standing beside Ash muttered softly. It seems that Rebecca since long ago had known the truth.

"Tee hee. This action is worthy of Veronica Her Royal Highness."

Originally he thought that Silvia is making some tearing sound but then she ripped off her mask, together with her blond hair wig, from her face.

And the true face behind the mask is-

"Cosette?"

Ash is dumbfounded.

The 20 people, from the welcome party led by the mayor, are also speechless from the unexpected change of events.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p087.jpg|thumb|"I regret that a woman like you is not able to become my underling. How about it… Cosette? It is still never too late. Come and follow me!"]]

"Sure enough… There's no hiding from the eyes of Veronica Her Royal Highness."

Cosette, facing the Ironblood Valkyrie face to face, not only she didn’t act timid she even exposed a happy smile.

"That is obvious because I didn’t feel any fear from you! The Silvia who is not afraid of me is not Silvia!"

"Hehe...... I will use that as a future reference."

Her insolent answer makes Veronica frown.

"I regret that a woman like you is not able to become my underling. How about it… Cosette? It is still never too late. Come and follow me!"

Cosette with a resolute attitude answer.

"The person I serve… - Is only Princess Silvia-sama."

"That kind of timid blond girl? What are her good points?

"Everything about her are her good points. "

Cosette answered without a hint of confusion and at the same time everyone beside her was given the shock of their life.

"Tsk…... All the nonsense will stop here. You better quickly tell me. Where is Silvia?"

"Princess..."

While Cosette stiffen her face, trying to wriggle out -

"I... I'm here!"

Silvia in her uniform appeared behind the welcome party.

This time should be correct. The real Silvia now made the others dismay with her trembling legs is the best evidence.

"Will Her Royal Highness Princess be alright…...?"

Ash muttered nervously.

"Rest assured, at least, her life is safe."

Rebecca calm expression, said those terrifying words.

"You... You are dismissed. Cosette."

"I will. Princess."

After receiving Silvia’s command… Cosette leaves with a serious expression on her face.

===Part 4===
Under the gaze of the welcome party and escort the first Princess and the fourth Princess officially met.

"Anything not alright, my dear sister? Look at your knees, shaking like that?"

"I-I am not...... trembling. Silvia Lautreamont herself wholeheartedly...... Welcomes Anee-ue’s arrival."

"Tsk. Seems to me, that apart from your breast and your butt, you did not grow at all."

''Clink''... With the sound of her sabatons Veronica stepped forward.

"I’ll say again. Silvia, you disappoint me!"

''- WHACK!''

A hard and dry sound echoed in all four corners.

Veronica's iron-fisted swing toward Silvia which ended as a slap in the face.

"Sob ...!"

Silvia cannot help but stagger, but she eventually stayed firm, however the place that was slapped became swollen.

Veronica coldly stared at Silvia and with a plain tone she said:

"... I had already heard the report of the attacks. Rebecca Randall courageously protect the city and also the mysterious person who cleverly drove out the Necromancia are worthy to be praise."

Ash was surprised.

Because the one who drove out the Necromancia was no other than Ash himself.

"But what do you do? Even though there is someone who witnessed Lancelot flying in the sky, but…... you are helplessly circling aimlessly in the sky, right?"

Silvia is speechless and just kept on trembling.

Ash annoyingly clenched his fists.

The information seems like it is not properly conveyed to Veronica. Perhaps the focus is placed on the fact that Ash drove off the Necromancia resulting in the middle part of the fight having been omitted.

The problem is that, the Silvia and Ash, fought side by side.

Without the assistance of Silvia Ash cannot single-handedly defeat the Necromancia.

Ash is anxious, but Veronica naturally does not know about this, and thus she declare:

"Accept the punishment, Silvia."

Those who are watching… None of them are not looking pale.

Veronica pulled out a the broad-sword hanging around her waist.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p002-003.jpg|thumb|''there is a silver flash. The sound of the wind whizzing. Without knowing how much blood it drew in the past the broad sword, shining with a glaring light, rushed towards Silvia.'']]

Before there is any chance to respond there was a silver flash in front of everyones’ eyes. Even though it seemed like a gigantic two-handed sword Veronica easily wielded it with one hand.

The sound of the wind whizzing.

Without knowing how much blood it drew in the past the broad sword, shining with a glaring light, rushed towards Silvia.

"-!"

Silvia's chest was glazed pitifully.

"Princess!"

Ash was scared and he screamed.

“Silvia-sama! "

"Veronica-sama has lost her mind!"

"How could such absurd thing occur!"

"Doctor, quickly call for a doctor!"

The members welcome party one after another starts to moan.

From the beginning of the incident those who didn’t start yelling at all, and kept their cool, were only Rebecca, Cosette, and Angela.

Silvia, who was glazed on her chest hobbled, in the end her butt fell on the ground.

Unbelievably, there was no blood.

And then her uniform suddenly fragmented further, turning into pieces of of cloth, together with her underclothes which fell off gently… As if the clothing suddenly remembered the fact that they are just been Slashed.

"Huh ...?"

Silvia froze a moment looking downward feeling puzzled.

It turned out that Veronica’s slash only cut off her clothes that wrapped around Silvia’s upper body.

Her shoulder is as white as snow, her busty breast, and the contract imprinted on her chest- 'Seikoku' all of them were exposed in broad daylight.

"Kyaa......!"

Silvia red in the face scream at the top of her voice, with both her hands, covered her chest.

"Princess!"

Ash could stand it no longer and rushed forward. He quickly took off his jacket and draped it over Silvia's body.

"......?"

The moment he witnesses Silvia’s <Seikoku> Ash suddenly sensed something strange, although confused, but now is not the time to be concerned about such problem.

Veronica looked coldly at Ash’s action then she put back her broad-sword back in its sheath.

"Anything wrong Silvia? If you encountered the same situation on the battlefield… Will you only scream to hide your embarrassment?"

Silvia could not talk back as there were tears filling her eyes.

"Look, this is your nature. Even when you wore the aura of a Dragner, you are just a good for nothing blond. It is better for you to pursue the so-called woman's happiness!"

"...... What do you mean by this?"

Veronica’s behaviour of scolding Silvia, made Ash furious.

The anger that he is holding back for a long time suddenly exploded.

Even that he is facing the first Princess he cannot just sit by and watch any longer.

"Hey. -Hey…... Ash?"

Ash's menacing walk forward made Max quickly whisper from behind to stop him. However Ash naturally turn a deaf ear.

Logically speaking the one who should be the first to stop Ash should be Rebecca but without knowing what she is thinking or maybe she is just waiting for a nice show… She didn’t comment on anything.

Ash sternly talk to Veronica.

"I do not know how great the first princess is…… But since you were not there when the incident took place what is this nonsense, that you are now talking about just now, based on!"

The moment he blurted it out a sharp sword was pointed at Ash’s neck.

“Uhh……!”

Ash was caught by surprise. The one who pointed the sword at him is the Dragner who he suspected was the captain of the escort.

The man has a beautiful face, and there is nothing wrong in calling him good-looking. Just that his pair of eyes hidden under his Ark has a cold glare, hard to feel a single trace of emotion. Ash felt like he was being stared at by a ghost.

"Glenn! Whatever next? The opposite party is just an ordinary student.”

"Sorry. Her Royal Highness Princess."

Ordered by Veronica the Ark-Dragner called Glenn obediently stepped aside.

The moment Ash is free from the sword he broke out into a cold sweat.

Lucky that the sword pointing at him is just a normal sword. If at that time what he had pulled out was the Ark-Dragner's personal Ark-weapon, maybe even with just magic fluctuations alone, it might have been enough to remove his head.

"Long time no see Princess Veronica-sama."

Waiting until now… Rebecca finally made her move. She stood in front of Ash and respectfully gave a bow.

"Oh. Aren’t you Rebecca? Why are you still staying in this school fooling around? I would like to advise you to hurry up and quit school and join our Dragners."<ref> Full name should be Dragners of Lautreamont since my raws just write half the name I will let it be.</ref>.

Rebecca with her elegant response resolve Veronica’s pressure.

"I had for many time declined the invitation to join the Dragners and now I just want to enjoy my identity as a student."

"Hmm. You obviously haven’t been able to learn anything new from this school for some time… I really do not understand you. Having said that is this guy also from the student council?"

Veronica's suddenly stare at him made Ash’s hair stand.

“Yes. That's right."

"It seems that you have recruited a subordinate who is full of energy."

"...... May I tell you something?"

Veronica's generously nodded regarding Rebecca request, indicated she didn't seem particularly displeased.

Leaning towards Veronica’s ear, Rebecca softly whispered something.

Veronica’s eyes suddenly shined brightly.

The gaze from her eyes, even Cú Chulainn, Arianrhod and also Eco and the other Dragons can also feel the fear.

There are such rumors in the society-

It is said that the reason that Veronica was not chosen as a breeder during the 'Orphan Ceremony' is the mother of the dragon though that the eyes of the seven years old Veronica was much too frightening-

"Hmm…... Seems like I don’t even need to waste any effort. It saves me from the trouble to find him. Glenn, arrest that guy for me!"

"Yes. Princess."

With Veronica’s order Glenn immediately took action.

"Wh- What are you doing!"

But in a blink of an eye, Ash was caught by Glenn and he was place under his armpit.

"Hey…. Let me down!"

While feeling the cold temperature from the Ark at the same time, Ash is swinging his limbs and struggling.

But the more Ash struggled… Glenn’s hands, holding his body, became tigher and tighter. That kind of strength surprised everyone and maybe it is the Ark which enhanced his arm’s strength .

"I have a mountain of problems and I want to question you."

Veronica left the welcoming party as they stood frightened. She lifted her cloak and walked towards the school building.

===Part 5===
Veronica does not appear to be visiting Ansarivan for the first time, as if she is familiar with the environment, she open the door of the guest room.

-In the beginning there is only the three of them Veronica, Glenn, and Ash in the room.

"You all go and 'wash' the school premises."

After being given orders by their captain Glenn the other six escorts salute and split up.

The 'Wash' is not as simple as the literal meaning but it is to find and to remove suspicious persons and items which act as cypher. Even Ash understand this.

This is Ash's first time in the guest room.

Ansarivan, anyhow, is a special Academy for breeders so naturally there are always a lot of domestic and foreign nobles who come to visit. For the guest room; only the word 'gorgeous' can be used to describe its design.

Even the furniture such as sofas, tables, carpets, and bookshelves, are all imported from the Chevron Kingdom.

Unfortunately. Ash cannot enjoy such a classy atmosphere.

"Glenn. Put that kid on the chair."

"Yes. Princess."

Glenn, without any expression answered, dragged Ash to chair nearby and let him sit on it.

"By the way. Tie him up."

"Yes. Princess."

"The ass who keeps on 'Yes. Princess-ing!' St- Stop right now-"

Although Ash made his best effort to resist his opponent, being the Captain of the escort, without a doubt he is no match for him.

With some rope and binding tools, Ash is easily tied on the chair, and even he lost his own ability to stand up.

"What do you want!?"

The cold white sword is at the back of Ash’s neck

"Little devil, the one you’re speaking to is Princess Veronica Lautreamont, Her Royal Highness, you should not make any rude remarks."

Veronica scolded Glenn:

"Don’t make things any more difficult for him, according to Rebecca, he seems to be the one who drove away the Necromancia, the hero who saved Ansarivan, we must thank him properly with courtesy."

"Is this what you call courtesy?!"

Ash was so agitated that he almost fell to the ground with the chair. Being tied up indiscriminately, and they even dare to talk about courtesy.

Unfortunately. Ash’s complaints was completely ignored.

"But, Veronica-sama, this student is way too much savage and rude."

"Glenn, in this world, only achievement and result mean anything, why do we care about that rude point?"

"The problem is-"

"Do you have any opinions regarding what I just said?"

Veronica's eyes suddenly release a murderous intent. Even the amazing men like the captain kept his silence.

"I beg your forgiveness. A small slip of my tongue."

The moment when Glenn is apologizing-

The door was suddenly hit open followed by some noisy sound.

"Hold on! You. What are you doing to my slave?!"

Unexpectedly. Eco actually rushed in. Perhaps she ran all her way here. Her cheeks are bright red.

"...... Eco?"

"Huu? Hey brat don’t tell me you are this child’s slave?"

When he heard Veronica emphasis on the word "slave" Ash shook his head and rejected it.

"I-I am not her slave!"

"Hmm. It seems things are not as simple as it seems ..."

"About the relationship between the two of them. I will explain it to you later."

The person who appeared from behind Eco is Angela.

Beside Angela is Rebecca with a bitter smile.

"You still cause a lot of trouble. Ash. "

So-

The meeting with Veronica is going to start with the absence of the mayor, the council and the principal.

===Part 6===
Although she is in the guest room, Veronica refuses to take off her armour, which makes him remember about the Valkyrie in the fairy tales.

"That armour... Ain’t it heavy?"

Ash casually asked but Veronica threw him a cold glare.

"A silly question. Armour is beauty! Apart from bathing and sleeping, I always remind myself to wear my armour as much as possible."

"Really..."

While ignoring Ash, who is stunned, Veronica looked around the crowd.

"We will sit right there."

Following Veronica’s proposal everyone move towards the sofa. Angela, Rebecca, and Eco following in sequence until they are sitting opposite to Veronica.

"Uh ... What about me?"

Seeing that the sofa seems fluffy, which should be very comfortable to sit on, but Ash was the only one to be tied to the chair.

Ash felt baffled because why must he be tied up like a prisoner.

"Oops. I had already forgotten your presence. Glenn, go carry him over.

"Yes. Princess."

Glenn lifted Ash up, altogether with the chair, and moved them both next to the sofa. Then he silently moved to the door and stood up straight.

"Well…... I think you should have known that my purpose for coming to Ansarivan is not just for condolences."

"Is the purpose of your trip's is really to investigate the Necromancia’s incident?"

Angela's eyes bursting out a light of intellectual through the lens.

"Ermm. I must be at the place of the incident to find out the truth that cannot be written in the report. Now please do not waste any more time. Can I trouble one of you to describe the attacks that occurred?"

"Then I will say it."

Rebecca who was actually involved in the fight began to talk about the situation of that time.

===Part 7===
After listening to Rebecca's explanation. Veronica sighed.

"Well...... Does it mean that at present we still cannot identify the identity of the culprit? Only that, if what is recorded in the report regarding Eco’s Dragweiss is true, then the Necromancia is magic engineering. To put it bluntly it would be the product of magic and engineering. Engineering has always been the Zepharos Empire pride, maybe the mastermind is in the Empire’s army…... Rebecca what’s your opinion?"

"I also think that the Empire is the greatest suspect, but…... I do not know whether it should be counted as fortunately or unfortunately but the Empire’s territory doesn’t include the dragons’ habitat."

"Then what is the problem?"

"The problem is, this attack is originated from a 'dragon', but unless we find some definite evidence, even if we investigate the Empire on diplomatic reasons, I am afraid it will be futile. The other side will certainly point out that ‘problems of dealing with dragons are the Knights of Lautreamont’s business' to stall any investigations."

"Hmm. What Rebecca says's is not unreasonable….... It seems like the search of evidence must go on, but, then again-"

Veronica without warning stared at Ash.

"So the hero who successfully resolved the severe crisis… Is this kid?"

"......"

Since he was tied to a chair it made him impossible to hide.

Ash took a grip on himself, put on some courage, and stared back into Veronica’s eyes.

"Hmm. Very manly."

Veronica grins while admiring him.

"Thank you for your praise."

"Well. I want to hear it from you. The most confusing spot on the report is how you defeated the monster.

"Th- That is......"

Ash doesn’t know where he is going to start from, but Eco suddenly shouted:

"If you want to ask that question… How can you forget about me!?"

"Hmm…... Then I will listen to you. Little bean<ref>"Little bean" is more commonly used as a nickname of little boys who are small size, but also use for girls who are consider cute, energetic, and boyish.</ref>."

"My name is Eco, Eco!"

"For a shorty like you, little bean is enough for you, if you are not satisfied I don’t mind calling you daphnia<ref>Small, planktonic crustaceans, I have no idea where the author got this idea from.</ref>!"

"Y-You really have a foul mouth! How dare you call a noble Dragon a daphnia!"

Eco was jumping around angrily which completely spoiled the nice black dress she had put on.

"Please forgive me for interrupting. Princess Veronica. She is Ash Blake’s Pal and at the same time she is also the reason that the Necromancia was able to be repelled… Young Dragon Eco."

To help Eco to get rid of her embarrassment, Angela respectfully explains.

"Oh. This shorty?...... I see, when you look closely, there are horns on her head."

Veronica eyes suddenly shine.

"Then you must quickly transform and show it to me."

"Huh? What am I going to transform?"

Eco impetuously looking at Veronica.

“Do you even need to ask, of course the Ark. I heard that it is because you presented the Ark to this kid… Only then he was able to defeat the Necromancia."

"What!...... P-P-Presented?"

Eco jumped up on the spot.

Her whole face including her ears are flushed.

"Ple-Please stop joking! That was just an emergency makeshift. W-Why must I present the Ark to this guy!"

"Your reaction is really interesting. Why would you should strongly deny him to this extent?"

Veronica, seemingly like from the depth of her heart, was curiously and wildly interested. She intended to scrutinize Eco.

Angela with a bitter smile explained:

“For dragons, to present the Ark is a proof of loyalty to their master, the meaning is no different when compared to marriage. Having said that, Eco has not yet recognized Ash as her master. Besides that her personality of hers is…..."

"That said… She just called her owner 'slave'. It's really disappointing to hear that the great hero who saved the city who made me think him as a great man…... But in the end, you who is called Ash, couldn’t even tame your own Pal?"

"Err ..."

When he was looked down upon. Ash felt bitterness in his heart. When he was seen as a worthless thing, by the beauty of the century, naturally he experienced an extraordinary degree of suffering.

"Forget about that, I hereby re-ordered to you instantly show the Ark you wore when defeating the Necromancia. And also, not letting the others help you, show me how you get loose from being tied."

After hearing that Ash understood why Veronica wanted him to be tied up.

All of that is for this moment.

Perhaps she thinks, that when Ash is in the ark, it would be child play for him to let break himself free from those ropes!

Veronica even gives her orders as Princess.

The situation does not easily allow either Eco or Ash to refuse.

"Are you able to do it? Eco?"

Ash nervously asked, but Eco with confidence said:

"Why. sure I can! The Ark that has already been completed and I can re-summon it for you anytime!"

===Part 8===
Eco stood still in the centre of the room and like a nun she close her eyes while beginning to chant the incantations.

"Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar......"

Even this is Ash’s first time witnessing the process of Eco constructing the Ark.

"Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas ......"

Veronica, who before has always looked calm, was witnessing the whole process with a nervous expression.

Rebecca, with a keen look, is also observing Eco.

Even Glenn, who is normally emotionless, unconsciously glanced at Eco.

“Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas... "

As for Angela, she quickly took out a pen and paper and records the detail of the situation.

"Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes..."

The only thing is, although it is a very solemn ceremony, since Ash was the only one to be tied to a chair he has no feeling of nervousness.

“-Espolón!"<ref>The chant is made of parts of a suit of armour in spanish. They are, in order "armet" (a head protection similar to a helmet, but more comfortable), "gorget" (neck protector), "breastplate" (for the breast), "backplate" (for the back), "chausses" (sock or tights made from chain mail), "faulds" (something like a metal skirt to protect what must be protected), "tassets" (little plaques that hang from the faulds to better protect the leg area), "gardbaces" (for the collarbone), "pauldron" (for the shoulder), "rerebrace" (for the upper arm), "couters" (for the shoulders), "forearms" (this is a body part; i suppose she meant "vambraces"), "gauntlets" (for the hands), "cuisses" (for the upper leg), "guards" (to cover the mobile parts, I suppose she meant "poleyns" for the knees), "greaves" (for the lower leg), "sabatons" (for the feet) and "spurs" (a short spike or spiked wheel that attaches to the heel of a rider's boot or knight's sabaton and is used to urge a {{Furigana|horse|dragon|margin=13}} forwar; the word selected names the single spike kind that, on occasions, can double as a stabbing weapon). </ref>.

After Eco shouted the last word, a shining white light enveloped in the room, a thunder-like rumble can be heard.

At the same time Ash can feel his own body coated by powerful magic.

-Similar to that time......!

Ash remembers the fight with the Necromancia.

The <Seikoku> on his left arm was glowing and it is painful.

When the pain reach its maximum point… Ash’s body wrapped itself in a silver Ark.

It was a completely a weightless, magically constructed, Ark.

Perhaps they cannot withstand the magic released by the Ark, the binding tools, the ropes and the chair exploded.

"Oh ... there is a proverb in the east that said 'The Buddha has to be covered with golden cloth, and man must be covered with cloth”<ref>This proverb means that everybody must present themselves in what is suitable for them.</ref>, and the Ark really suits you. Glenn, what are your opinions? In your eyes does that look like an Ark?"

Glenn respectfully answered the Veronica’s question:

"Yes. I can’t be wrong. I sensed the unique magic that only the Ark possesses, and its element should be light, it is just that..."

"It's just that?"

"It is not exaggerating to say that it is an armour which doesn’t completely have the feel of its creator."

As worthy of the captain of the escort. Glenn’s opinion directly hit the point.

"You cannot blame me for this!"

Eco declare to Glenn.

It is undeniable that Eco is still a young dragon and does not have the power to create the Ark.

On the other hand she was able to take the individual armour body parts, which were particularly suitable to Ash's body, from the massive blueprint stored in the Dragweiss, and then reassemble them. Thus the present Ark was created.

"But... I don’t understand, even if this is not a complete Ark, what good does it do?"

Angela answered Veronica’s simple question.

"To tell the truth… He has a special talent. Although I have not yet identified the reason... He has a nickname of ‘The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon’ in this school, and as far as I know, he is the only person who can ride the others people's pal and his own. "

"I see. So the rare talent and the incomplete Ark enabled him to successfully defeat the Necromancia?"

Upon seeing Veronica’s happy facial expression Ash becomes angry.

"The facts are not like what you say! If not because of Princess-sama, leading Lancelot to assist me, it would never have been possible for me to jump on to the Necromancia! But you… How you treat Princess!"

However, Veronica, even after listening to Ash’s claims, remained unmoved.

"In other words; Silvia only played the role of a 'driver'."

Veronica’s comments towards Silvia are still bitter as ever.

Just at this time the Ark turned into light particles and vanished.

Upon seeing this, Veronica curls her lip to expose a harsh sneer.

"There is a time limit? Because of that it cannot be called a weapon, but it looks like it can be used as an entertainment tool for sideshow."

The Veronica’s tone angered Ash.

"This is not a sideshow! Although it is just temporary assembled. It is still an Ark that Eco created!"

“Are you Dumb? Weapons that only last a few minutes, if it is not a sideshow, what is it?"

"Err ..."

"Also... Your relationship with Silvia is quite close. Are you a couple?"

At the very start to be asked such blatant questions made Ash blush. What’s more, hearing the word "couple" coming from Veronica’s mouth is also unexpected.

"I- I. How are we a couple!"

"Hmm, a weird reaction, which made people dissatisfied…... I am really very dissatisfied!"

Veronica stood up from the couch, and stood before Ash.

"Well, I have decided! Ash, or whatever, I command you to temporarily serve as my servant! Glenn. Catch this kid for me!"

"Yes. Princess."

"What? Your nonsense… Are you even- Ouch. Owow!"

Glenn didn’t give Ash any chance to raise any objections and carried him off under his armpit.

"Glenn. Prepare to head back to Silvanus.”

Veronica flips her cloak and left the room. Glenn, regardless of the resisting Ash, left following Veronica.

"Ironblood Valkyrie ~A.B.S.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3

2014-02-12T02:18:40Z

Aoi uchuu: English phrases, words and grammar. Added captions to the pictures.

==Chapter 3 - Veronica and Silvia==
===Part 1===
As the magicship Silvanus arrived at Ansarivan-

The Necromacia’s summoner Anya, Milgauss’s right-hand person, was stranded in Danebury, which was a commercial city, just west of Ansarivan itself. At this time she was alone in one of the many buildings thinking deeply to herself.

Despite the words "Rosetta’s Business Firm” hanging on the door this is actually the name of a fictional industry. In other words… This is a secret base operated by Milgauss and the Zepharos Empire’s Intelligence.

Basically, the interior had the taste of a business firm, the tables, chairs and bookcase being very neat and organized.

But presently there was only Anya in the room.

“'Silver Knight' ...?"

While browsing, the data in her hand, Anya murmured and muttered.

Recently she has been diligently investigating the hero called 'Silver Knight'.

For Milgauss and Anya, the hero who defeated the Necromancia may be turned into a threat to them.

The problem is that, surprisingly, there is only a few sightings and reports. Which causes the investigations to run into a bottleneck.

So far, the information related with the true identity of the 'Silver Knight' is still not yet known. After all, as the people who happen to be there were in chaos, such a result is not surprising.

The ones who have the most precise grasp of the situation, perhaps, are none-other than Milgauss and Anya who were overlooking the scene of the incident.

As a result. What is presently widely spoken about may just be rumors thus they couldn't find any valuable clues.

No. There is valuable information from Anya’s memories .

"That guy...... Since he participated in the dragon riding festival… This means that he is a student of the Academy. Right?"

It happens that, because of some difficulties, Anya was afraid to inform Milgauss of this.

If she did report to him, it is like admitting her own mistake.

If the guy, whom she didn't kill, turned out to be the 'Silver Knight'....... This incident, no matter what, Anya will never tell anyone.

Anya stepped towards the window… Staring blankly at the sky.

"Milgauss-sama..."

A few days before. Milgauss received a confidential letter issued by the Ministry of The Empire’s Intelligence.

Recorded in the letter was an order for him him to return to the Empire. The Intelligence Department should be very interested in the Necromancia.

"Oh yeah, I have to finish the report before Milgauss-sama comes back......"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p113.jpg|thumb|Anya steped towards the window… Staring blankly at the sky.]]

"It's not good! Something is very wrong. Shamara!"

One of the men suddenly broke into the room.

He has wheat-colored skin and dark hair.

He is a typical Tantalos guy.

"How many times do you want me to remind you? Now I’m called Anya! Do not use that name to call me!"

“S-Sorry...... Anya.”

"It's Anya-sama."

"Yes... Anya-sama."

The teenager knelt for quite a while. On matter of what happened in the past, Anya is the leader of a Tantalos tribe. No matter how familiar he is to her, there is still hierarchy, otherwise it is impossible to rule the others.

"So then what happened that is wrong?"

"Th-That is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie' just came to visit Ansarivan. Which has caused quite a stir."

"What?!"

Anya’s eyes widened.

'Ironblood Valkyrie'- The Lautreamont Knight Country’s first Princess. Princess Veronica. Her reputation has shaken the whole continent.

Veronica intervenes in much ethnic strife around the continent thus increasing the loss of and to various guerrilla forces.

This also includes many Tantalos fighters.

It is not exaggerating to say she is an enemy to all Tantalos.

"How long is Veronica expected to stay?"

"According to official sources. Five days......"

If she rushes there non-stop she will arrive at Ansarivan in three days. For Anya, who trained in the mountainous areas, it is but a slight distance. It has long been known that Ansarivan's defense is very weak and vulnerable. If you took a gamble… You might even have the opportunity to assassinate Veronica-sama herself. But… Anya quickly dispelled any such ideas.

Because she remembered Milgauss' command before he returned to the Empire.

''"- During the period when I am gone, you are to investigate clearly the ins and outs of the Ark-Dragner who defeated the Necromancia."''

Not just for Anya but for the Tantalos tribe too. It's all the same… Milgauss' command is supreme and not to be defied.

Milgauss had only ordered them to spy. Even if it is a godsend Anya must not recklessly attack Veronica.

“Uh... That... "

"What happened?"

Looking at the hesitant look of the teenager, Anya sensed something bad.

"The thing is...... Uh...... After hearing the name 'Ironblood Valkyrie'… The rest have left for Ansarivan.”

"What did you say?!"

Anya swung her long hair and knocked over the chair.

"The rest", that the guy was talking about, are the Tantalos who followed Anya down from the mountains to assist Milgauss. They are also Anya’s subordinates.

"I, I have tried to stop them! But Valery, Micha and Sergi...... They didn’t listen to my advice."

"They are just too reckless!"

Since Milgauss returned to the Empire Anya let Valery rest. This is because she knows that those who are always careless are not fit for spying activities.

The rest, since they have heard the name of Veronica, got carried away by their emotions, Anya understand this.

The problem. Is that blindly provoking the Knight country is not a wise move.

The Zepharos Empire, even with their advanced Mechanical engineering, and non-stop expansion of their armies over the past 50 years, does not have the strength to be on an equal footing with the Dragons.

They still have to bear with it.

At least before the Necromancia had officially come in handy -

"I will immediately leave for Ansarivan!"

"Ehhh?! Anya...- sama also wants to join the assassination?"

"It is just the opposite. I have to stop those guys!"

Anya raised her head resolutely and she rushed out of the room.

===Part 2===
"It is not suitable for me...... Which is what I should say. That, fortunately, it does not suit me."

Ash, who was forcibly taken to the airship Silvanus, for the first time in his life put on the attire of a butler.

His black tuxedo gives out an extra formal feeling and there is the white bow tied at his neckline.

With the exception of his left hand as it is wrapped up in bandages like usual. It is better to say that he uses it as a small protest against Veronica. Rather than show her his 'Seikoku'.

“Ash-kun. Have you finished changing?"

A cheerful voice emerged from behind the door.

When Ash who froze in front of the mirror turned around, the owner of the voice opened the door and walked into the dressing room.

She is dressed in maid attire. Right after Veronica returned to the magicship she was given the responsibility of taking care of Ash.

Once he saw the maid’s cheerful smile Ash suddenly got an unbelievable feeling of Deja Vu.

"Ah yeah! Ash-kun! This attire suits you very well!"

"Even with such praise. I don’t know what’s so happy about it."

"Hu ~? Why? You are really handsome!"

The maid somehow let her foot slip and she fell.

"Careful!"

Ash rushed over, and even stretched out of his hand, but the helpless maid fell forward with greater force than expected and even Ash also lost his balance.

"Ouch!"

While being stimulated by the maid’s soft body parts, to the point he started blushing, the two of them fell to the ground together.

"It hurts...... It hurts....."

Ash, who was trying to get up from the ground, found out that his left hand is grabbing the maid's breast. Not only was he shocked, because her breast is not only soft, but it is also too big for him to hold it with one hand.

At the same time, a fragrant fruity smell entered his nose, Ash's cheeks suddenly became hot.

"S-Sorry!"

"No. No... It's entirely my fault..."

Ash quickly recovers from the ground and reaches out his hand to give the maid a lift. The maid, somehow quite adorably, blushed while she held his hand.

Only then, again, Ash faces the maid.

"Uhh. May I ask your name...?"

"I am Primrose Shelley. The servant of Silvanus. Please call me Prim… It sounds cuter."

The surname Shelley sounds familiar to Ash.

"I would like to ask...... Are you a relative of Cosette Shirley-san?"

"Ah!"

Prim suddenly exposed a cheerful smile. The two huge lumps of meat, with a "plop, plop", shook twice.

"Do you know Cosette-chan? She is my younger sister!"

"I see... You really look alike."

No wonder he previously had the feeling of Deja Vu.

The only thing is… Prim gives off a more matured feeling than Cosette. Especially with her body as when, he remembers the feeling in his palm just now, Ash’s mood became impetuous.

"Yeah, everybody says that, but...... I am not like Cosette-chan with her good working ability. I’m always clumsy."

After Prim blew her nose, with the hem of her apron, she wiped her tears.

"However, Ash-kun, you are my first kohai!<ref>Literally junior.</ref> I will make every effort to teach you!"

Seeing Prim’s fists full of fighting spirit, Ash awkwardly explains:

"You have misunderstood. I did not come here to work!"

"Err. Is that so?"

Prim is surprised for a moment.

"I am a student of the Dragon Riding Academy! It is just that the rude and unreasonable Princess, using force, brought me here......."

"So to say… Are you by any chance...... A breeder?"

"Uuh... Basically I am."

''As an irregular,'' Ash didn't dare to admit that loudly.

"My God! I’ve been calling you 'Ash-kun'…… This is unforgivable! Please allow me to address you as 'Ash-sama' in the future! If you refuse my apology I will immediately commit suicide! "

"Ehhhhh!? Just call me whatever you want! Just don’t die!"

Ash is desperately trying to appease her mood.

"... I had made a laughing stock of myself in front of you. Anyway. Why did Ash-sama become a butler in this airship?"

Prim’s simple question made Ash cannot help but sighed.

"I would also like to ask why..."

“- If you want to know. Then I'll generously tell you? "

The owner of the solemn voice from the doorway is none other than the culprit; Veronica.

As usual she is with her suit of armour, majestically standing in the doorway.

"Princess!"

Prim is shocked but she still respectfully bows.

In contrast. Ash cannot help but burst into roaring laughter:

"Not bad. I really wish that you will immediately tell me!"

"I'll tell you why- Because of the fun."

Ash doubts his ears.

"I remember that I heard the word 'fun'...?"

“Otherwise I can also replace it with 'to pass time' if you don’t like it.”

Ash collapsed.

"B- Because of this reason...... The situation has turned out this way?"

"Exactly."

After replying coldly. Veronica looked at Prim.

“Prim, for the time being, make this kid your subordinate and educate him well. Understood?”

"Yes Princess!"

Turing her back against Prim, as if purposely creating some clashing sounds with her armour, Veronica left without even looking back.

“Wh- What is going to happen?”

While ignoring Ash's feelings Prim grabbed his hand-

"Alright, Ash-sama, let’s get to work!"

Triumphantly putting on a pose and running ahead of him –

"Hold on! That side has a wall!!"

"Huh?"

Turning a deaf ear to Ash’s warning Prim ran right into the wall.

===Part 3===
Sweeping, cleaning, cooking...... Ash, who followed Prim the whole time, reluctantly helped with the various chores within the ship.

Only that Prim is a lot clumsier than Ash thought. For example, she would even stumble and fall in an area without any obstacles, break a whole pile of plates, tip a bucket of water over in the corridors...... And. Many other embarrassing things.

Ash, unconsciously, whenever Prim wanted to do anything…

"I’ll do it!" Ash would say.

Ash would complete it on her behalf.

They confused many people regarding who is the real senpai<ref>Literally senior.</ref>.

There is like a huge mountain of work that needs to be done. Until the sky had turned dark, and only then, Ash realized that it was already nightfall.

According to Prim the ship is now in its rest state so typically, strictly speaking, there is less work. The workload during flight increases drastically.

This gigantic machine can actually carry dozens of crew and cargo during the flight - Even now it is still difficult for Ash to believe it.

===Part 4===
Only after Veronica finished her dinner was Ash allowed to rest.

After receiving his meal, in the kitchen, he entered the servant’s lounge. The empty room surprised Ash a little bit.

"Well. It's also alright this way."

Ash found a place to sit down then started his meal.

The menu tonight is walnut bread, vegetable stewed duck, cabbage and corn salad. There is not much difference from eating this compared to the students’ restaurant.

The taste is not too bad but it is not so good that someone will shed tears in appreciation.

Ash suddenly remembered an image of Veronica dining.

The dishes that Veronica ate are similar to his. It seems that, rather than the taste, she pays more attention to nutritional balance.

-The thought of eating made Ash miss Eco.

"Did Eco obediently eat...?"

Dragons basically eat five meals per day.

Even though Eco is born in the form of a delicate and charming girl she is no exception. For now Ash didn’t have any spare energy to take care of Eco so he can only look forward to Cosette’s and Rebecca’s help.

After eating Ash looked around the lounge.

The bookshelf placed beside the wall has novels and manuals. Anyway, there is still time to rest, so Ash walks towards the bookshelf to look for books that he is interested in. In the end he found a title that arouses his curiosity.

"This is... 'The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'?"

The bookshelf has volumes one to nine of the series. The books seem to be very popular. The size of these books can be put into a bag and easily carried around, the cover illustration is the preferred choice girls who are in their teens.

So. The handsome Dragon Knight on the illustration of the cover is that famous '''Silver Knight'''.

"Damn. It's all because of this novel."

Even though he is angry and has complained, and since he couldn’t find any other more interesting books, Ash decided to read this book. Since it's better than none.

The protagonist Kane is an ordinary humble student in school, but, after nightfall, he becomes the Silver Knight to fight off evil. Alisha the heroine, on the other hand, is Kane's childhood friend. She usually thinks that the useless Kane is a good-for-nothing.

In the beginning of the story; The unfortunate Alisha is caught in a kidnapping case, later the heroic 'Silver Knight' appears and successfully saved her, from out of nowhere, and captivated her thoughts.

Of course… She never knew that Kane was actually the same person as the 'Silver Knight'-

"Hmm ... I didn’t expect it to be quite interesting."

In the story. The efforts that Kane made in order to avoid his true identity from being revealed will make people cry. This made Ash think about himself.

In the second half of the story… Kane is in a bitter struggle with a mysterious dragon. The results are shocking, it seems that the dragon had been modified into a mechanical dragon from its physical body with the Empire’s technology.

Facing such an abnormally strong enemy how is Kane going to fight against it? – Ash is attracted to the exciting plot and quickly flips the page. Later… Kane uses ice magic to freeze the dragon's control device, reducing the temperature low enough until the power stops, forcing the device to cease function.

The story, therefore, ends happily.

"Well... It's also good to read some books occasionally."

Just when Ash intended to continue reading with the second volume- "Ash-sama! It turns out that you are here!"

The badly bruised Prim rushes into the lounge.

"Prim-san? Anything? Why are you panicking like that?"

"T- Th- The..... Her Royal Highness Princess has asked for you!"

Ash with a surprised face stood up.

"I just thought that I was finally free! So ... Where shall I go to?"

"That....." Prim seemed hesitant.

"That.....?"

“The location is the bathroom! I'll lead you there! "

"Hold on!...... What’s happening!?"

Why did he need to go to the bathroom? Ash sensed something bad.

"Come on Ash-sama. The princess's command is not to be defied! Let’s depart!"

Prim pulled Ash’s arm and ran.

"Wait a minute. There's a wall!!"

"Uwa......"

A sound of "Bang" is heard and there is now an additional wound on Prim’s body.

===Part 5===
"Come in. Ash."

Veronica’s grim voice came from the other side of the frosted glass.

"Her Royal Highness Princess already allowed so just walk in boldly."

Even though Prim gives him a nudge while smiling, Ash, no matter what, stood still.

Veronica is in the bathroom with her armour ''off''. This is most clearly evident, on the frosted glass that is separating the bathroom and dressing room, by the outlines of her body.

Needless to say… That outline is obviously naked.

"But... I'm a guy..."

"What are you procrastinating for? Do you want to be beheaded?"

Veronica’s voice came from behind the frosted glass. It is no joke if he was arrested and beheaded in a place like this.

"Come this way. Please."

There are already four maids waiting in the changing room.

"Hurry, hurry, Ash-sama! Quickly take off your clothes!"

Prim said to Ash from behind.

"Just wait for a moment! I'm not mentally prepared..."

“Ash-sama you are too naive! Once I resorted to the art of stripping anyone will instantly become naked! Now-!"

"Uwaa! Prim-san why do you take off your clothes!"

With a busty breast in front Ash’s body cannot help but stiffen.

"Ah. I made a mistake... Tee hee."

"How do you mistake your own clothes with another's?"

Even when Ash moves his sight away he still could not help but comment.

"Hey! Prim. Could you please not intervene!"

The four maids push Prim aside and surround Ash.

“Sorry, Ash-sama, we are merely acting upon Her Royal Highness Princess’s orders!"

"Err... Can I take it off myself...?"

"Please submit obediently!"

Hands from all directions stretched out to seize Ash’s clothes. Because they are all women, even if Ash tried to resist, he cannot do so too roughly... Before Ash could make up his mind his tuxedo and shirt are stripped off and even his pants are cast aside.

"Urgh..."

After the bandage on his left hand is also removed mercilessly by the maids, Ash, completely naked, is taken into the bathroom.

===Part 6===
"Haa…"

Nestling in one corner of the wide bathtub Ash, with a long breath, deeply sighed.

Fortunately the royal’s special bathing agent turns the warm water from clear to cloudy white. Although the bathroom is surrounded by the fragrance of flowers, so comfortable that you could fall asleep without realizing it, soaking in the warm water with Veronica made the situation tense.

The only good news is because of the big bathtub he is able to keep a safe distance from Veronica. If they are too close it will be difficult not to pay attention to Veronica’s nude body.

"Something wrong? You seem unhappy."

Veronica who cannot understand Ash’s thoughts starts the conversation.

"Who do you think the culprit is..."

"This is the bathroom so can’t you relax?"

"How can I!? Anyway… Why are you so carefree? I heard that the 'Ironblood Valkyrie' made many enemies."

After hearing Ash’s teasing, Veronica didn’t even budge one bit.

"Foolish question. Do you still not yet realize that you are in Ansarivan’s most secure place?"

"Ah... I see."

The magicship Silvanus.

Equipped with cannons, thick armour and can take off as a refuge if it encounters danger. Not only that. The ship is also surrounded by seven escorts.

The guard captain Glenn is even an Ark-Dragner. The real reason Veronica didn’t stay in a downtown high class hotel is because she believes that there is no place safer than this ship.

At this time a maid, through the frosted glass, reports to Veronica:

“The Fourth Princess has just arrived.”

"The messenger has been gone for a long time...... Forget about it. Tell her to immediately come on into the bathroom to report. "

"Yes. Princess."

Upon receiving Veronica's instructions the maid quickly disappeared.

“The fourth…”

Ash confusedly twisted his neck to one side.

Although he seems to have heard this wording before… For the moment he couldn't remember who that was. Just when he started to have a bad feeling about this, the glass door slides open, the identity of the third person is revealed.

“E- Excuse me...... Anee-ue."

After hearing that voice Ash is dumbfounded.

"Princess?"

Silvia is standing in the doorway of the bathroom. Naked.

The phrase "The Fourth Princess” and Silvia's face is finally connected.

Even though the vision is blurred because of the water vapor… The dazzling beauty of Silvia cannot be disguised or hidden by mere vapor.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p133.jpg|thumb|Even though the vision is blurred because of the water vapor… The dazzling beauty of Silvia cannot be disguised or hidden by mere vapor.]]

"Wha...! That voice...... Is it Ash!?"

It appears that Silvia had not been notified that Ash is also present. Of course this is also because she firmly believes that there are only women present in the bathroom.

Silvia’s body is not even covered with a towel.

"Wh- Why would you be in a place like this!?"

Silvia quickly squatted down and huddled to herself after learning of Ash's presence.

"Well, well, Ash-sama. What a coincidence." Another familiar voice added in.

Cosette appeared immediately after Silvia. Obviously the situation is not right, but she looked calm and helped cover Silvia with a towel.

After Prim saw Cosette’s face she became happy.

"Ahh. Cosette!"

"Ah. Prim?"

Ash ignored the two sisters who are hugging each other without realizing the situation, and asked Veronica:

"How come…? Why is Princess here?"

"What is there anything to be surprised about? Are sisters bathing together so illogical?"

“Uh...... There is nothing strange for sisters to share a bath together. So… I shouldn’t bother the reunion of you two sisters. Now please excuse-”

"Don’t answer yourself so quickly. I'm allowing you to join."

Although it is said as allowed here verbally but in truth it has the same meaning as the order "forbidden to leave". Ash felt that an invisible force had bound him hand and foot.

"Silvia. What are you shy about? I don’t mind if you still have not washed<ref>Japanese usually bath and clean their body before they dip in the hot spring or something similar like this.</ref>. Quickly come and soak in this wonderfully warm bath."

"I- I...... Understand."

Silvia wrapped a bath towel around her body and gingerly sat in the bathtub.

Probably she is very aware of Veronica and Silvia maintained a fairly wide distance. On the other hand she is sitting closer towards Ash.

"What are you afraid about. Sit a little more closer."

"Y- Yes ..."

Silvia moved slightly closer. Even so she is still three meters away from Veronica. She is now almost in the middle, according to her position, of Veronica and Ash.

Veronica, looking unhappy but did not pester Silvia further, changed the subject and got straight to the point:

"Silvia. I called you here to introduce you to a marriage."

"... What?" All the sudden.

Silvia seems to not understand what she just heard and Ash also did not grasp the meaning of the word "marriage".

"You are already 16-years-old. In our country it's normal to be married at this age."

"T-The question is... According to this logic. Anee-ue you......”

"What did you say?"

"Eek……!"

Being sudenly stared by a pair of eagle’s eyes Silvia’s body now trembled endlessly.

"I'm busy dealing with military affairs. But more than anyone else… I worry about the Knight’s Royal family. Do you realize? Since our brother- Julius’s sentence the royal family’s future has been hazy. Although I’m first in the line for the throne I am only interested in leading troops for war. I’m not fit to be king of a country."

"Anee-ue is not unsuitable..."

"I say this my own self, there couldn’t be anything that is wrong."

"However, besides you, there is Mirabel and Cassandra Anee-ue!" Silvia countered.

"Silvia. We are now talking about you. This has nothing to do with either Mirabel or Cassandra or the both of them."

"How come..."

"Listen carefully Silvia; You need to give birth to a healthy child as soon as possible. You must not let the Royal family continue on without an heir."

"......!"

This type of talk made Silvia suddenly burst out red in the face.

Although he is only listening, Ash also cannot help but feel embarrassed.

"What are you talking about! Anee-ue!"

"If you do have any dissatisfaction… You should go to Julius’s grave and complain...... Wait. That guy doesn't even have his own grave. To think that he had actually lost his life for things that don’t make sense. If he was still alive......"

By mention of the name of Prince Julius Silvia couldn’t stop herself to argue on his behalf.

"Please do not say anything bad about onii-sama! He must have had his own reasons!"

Veronica looks pitifully towards Silvia.

"Hmm...... So to speak of it. I remember you used to be very close to Julius. Oh yeah, I want to help introduce you to a marriage, the person was Julius’s best friend."

Silvia’s eyes widen.

"Could it be...?"

"Yes. He is Glenn McGuire of our knights."

After hearing that name even Ash was shocked.

"What are you kidding about?"

Ash who can no longer tolerate this and, with a splash, suddenly stands up.

"How can it be, because he is an Ark-Dragner, you choose some guy whose identity is unknown for the marriage of Her Royal Highness Princess... Stop kidding around!"

Even when Ash is furious, Veronica is not only unshaken, she even glowered at him.

"Brat. What qualifications do you have to comment on what I’m doing?"

"That, I..."

“Or...... Do you have an unmentioned relationship with Silvia?”

Veronica's eyes are even more focus.

"Th-There is no such thing!"

Ash quickly denied it but Veronica sneered coldly.

"If that's the case. You are not qualified to interrupt."

"Err ..."

“Moreover. Can you cover up your front? You are troubling Silvia in regards of where to look at."

Veronica is right as Silvia’s eyes are wandering. Moreover, even though Veronica has been soaking in the bath for a longer time, Silvia's face is redder.

“-Uwaa!”

Only then Ash remembers that he is naked and immediately sinks his body in the water.

===Part 7===
The next day started the Imperial game attended by all students.

The so-called Imperial game, to put it bluntly, is executed by the advanced course students by performing their skills in front of Princess Veronica.

When visited by the royals or nobles… Performing this type of athletic activities is a well-established tradition of the dragon riding Academy.

Even during the time Ash was away, taken to serve Veronica, the preparations for the Imperial game were still running normally in the arena.

Even Veronica, who has always been rigorous and comprehensive, did not reject this tradition and promised to attend the match.

The game event is – Dragon riding Cricket.

Maestro, Strada, Asia and Hydra…… Four different types of dragons, each fielding a different position, in the same game. A very special dragon riding game.

Veronica is looking on from the arena’s VIP seats. Today she was also dressed in heavy armour.

Captain Glenn McGuire, equipped with an Ark, was like a shadow and remained by her side. The remaining six escorts had Veronica surrounded in a circle like shape.

The stands had long been packed with most of the students and many citizens of Ansarivan.

If anyone attempt to assassinate Veronica it would be easy to mix in a malicious group within this audience. The reason Glenn and the others were sporting a murderous look was probably caused by this.

"Eh ..."

This morning Ash also stayed beside Veronica as a butler. After one night Veronica was still reluctant to exempt him from his new duties.

Besides that, last night, Ash spent his night in the ship's lounge. It has been a long time since he has not spent the night with Eco.

"Something wrong? Worrying about your Pal?"

Veronica chatted openly with Ash having keenly seen through his mood .

Even when the audience cheers reach up into the sky her voice is still loud and clear.

"Well... In a way."

"What’s to be worrying about? Won’t the staff of the Dragon Scotia help to take care of dragons?"

"No. Eco must be taken care of by me-"

While Ash is halfway through explaining…..

"Found you!"

Eco yelled while rushing to him.

Although the escorts led by Glenn immediately put on an alert posture it is also clear to them the incoming person is someone who can be excluded without needing the use of force.

Veronica also lifts her hand and waves at them for them to stop.

"What are you messing around… Right here?!"

When Eco closes the distance she immediately leaps, does a somersault drawing a beautiful arc in mid-air to perform a jumping kick attack.

''"Ka Poof!"''<ref>sound of Ash being hit. ~~ "*Ouch*"</ref>

His stomach is severely kicked as Ash painfully moans out loud and he kneels down on the spot.

Eco angrily glared at Ash who is suffering without any reason.

“You better be ready… Hurry up! How am I able to play this game if you aren't present! "

Ash is surprised for a moment, and looked upwards towards Eco.

“Play...... You intend to participate in this competition?”

"Of course! Anyway. It feels very interesting!"

"The question is... How are you going to participate?"

"Hu?"

This time it's Eco’s turn to be dumbstruck.

"You must ride a dragon to receive the qualification...... How am I to ride you?"

Veronica who is listening to the two’s conversation smiled.

"Oh. To think that there is a time that the 'Boy who can ride any dragon' was unable show his own ability."

"That's because there exist some problems that cannot be solved by the use of physics!"

"Are you looking down on me? Who says that you are riding me? It is also ok for me to ride you! Quick. Lay on the ground!"

Ash, frightened, shouted:

"No matter who is riding there is no way for us to play! How can I a mere Human compete with the other's dragons? In a blink of an eye I will be stepped on and get smashed up!"

"Err...... or else I will let you try by putting on the Ark-"

"I have not heard which Ark-Dragner had been crawling while lying on the ground. Moreover. The rules prohibit the use of magic!"

The two of them are having a argument. At last… Eco gave in. She seems disappointed and dejected.

"''Haa''...... Why was I born in this form?"

"Eco."

"Do not be discouraged, the one who is called 'Eco', or whatever."

Surprisingly. Veronica tried to cheer up Eco.

"Why... I do not need any people to comfort me."

"You listen to me first. Dragons are a very wise race. Their cumulative history is longer than humans." Veronica lectured.

"... What are you trying to express?"

"In other words you, who are born with a human form, must have a reason. Even if the reason remains unclear for now there will come a day that the truth will be revealed."

"You..."

While Eco is accidentally staring at Veronica the whistle, signifying the start of the game, is blown.

Riders dressed in dragonsuit, each on their respective Pal, quickly spread out.

"Oh. Even Silvia took part! Oh... And. The opponent is actually Rebecca’s team? This is worth seeing."

Veronica muttered showing an unusual rare happy expression-

"Kyaa!"

Silvia and Lancelot were knocked out from the ring by Cú Chulainn who is ridden by Rebecca.

===Part 8===
"Princess!"

As Ash saw that Silvia was thrown off Lancelot and had fallen heavily on the ground, he immediately rushed out.

He jumped over the auditorium straight towards the arena. Swiftly passing through the crowds of dragons towards the place where Silvia fell.

The game is suspended because Silvia temporarily lost consciousness.

Veronica, looking at the running Ash, muttered:

"That kid... He did not even hesitate to run towards a group of dragons. He surely has some guts."

"Hmm. What’s so strange about that?"

Eco snapped at Veronica.

“But it seems that he is not used to women." Veronica laughs cheekily.

Eco, without giving up, questions her:

"What do you mean by that? It is best for you to explain clearly!"

"What?"

“That guy lives with me all day long. How can he be not used to women!"

"Hmph...... While staying with a little girl like you how can he be immune from women? When he saw me naked, he was embarrassed to the point that 'that' extended."

Eco who was red in her face clenched her teeth.

"Wh- What did you say?! Why were you naked?"

"Due to some adult circumstances… A kid like you has no reason to know."

"You really know how make people angry by just have them looking at you!” Eco yelled.

While Eco is angrily stomping around… Glenn quietly whispers to Veronica.

"The boy seems intent in sending Princess Silvia-sama to the school building...... Are we going to sit here idly? Silvanus also is in no shortage of excellent doctors."

"Let him be."

Veronica briskly stood up, looking around at the crowd.

"Everyone listen carefully!"

The strong-willed voice echoed and at the same time the arena is silenced for a moment. Everyone in sight is focused on Veronica. Just like a script in a play.

"Cú Chulainn’s collision is allowed according to the rules. Everything has to be blamed on my sister's immaturity, the game is not over, please proceed!"

The audience suddenly gave a thunderous applause as the game is resumed.

===Part 9===
"Err ..."

The instant she opens her eyes she is greeted by the familiar chandeliers.

This is the girl’s dormitory. – The top floor of Epona and the royal family’s room. – Also Silvia's personal room.

A cool breeze is blowing in slowly from the opened windows.

The sun at the sky is slowly setting.

"How do I ...?"

Silvia was quite startled.

Not long after the game started, Cú Chulainn collided with me, the impact was so great it caused me to fall from Lancelot-.

Silvia still remembers the incident that happened up until there, but, after that she completely fails to recall anything.

“- Ow!”

She looks on her body and found out that she is wearing, not a dragonsuit, but pyjamas.

When did someone help me put it on?

"Are you alright… Princess Highness?"

When she suddenly heard a man's voice Silvia could not help but move her body backwards.

"... Why are you here?"

Silvia simply did not even expect the smiling person at the bedside, to actually be Ash.

Although he is now wearing the uniform of a butler but the sleeve on his left hand reveals a small portion of bandage. He really insisted on covering up his 'Seikoku'...... But, right now, those things are not important.

Why would a guy be in the girl's dormitory where men are forbidden from entering?

Let alone Silvia Lautreamont’s boudoir!

“Oh, you have woken up, Princess?"

At this time, Cosette stuck her face out from the kitchen and Silvia immediately asked her to explain.

"Cosette. What is this about?! Why is Ash in my room?!"

“It would be rude if you use those words you know. Ash-sama took the trouble to carry you back to your room."

"What did you say? Ash... Carry me?"

Being stared at by Silvia caused Ash to start to shrink.

"Don’t be so angry with me. Initially… I brought you to the nurse's office but, because the imperial game was in progress, there are also many who are injured..."

"Today's nurse office is simply no different from a field hospital."

Cosette with a wry smile added.

"Once the doctor found out that Princess had only a slight bruise they kicked you out of the nurse's office. They also said that even if you are the princess, right now, there is no time to give you special treatment."

They finally managed to clarify the situation but Silvia still wasn't satisfied.

"Even if what you say is true… What is your obligation to carry me?"

"Of course it is because that I’m concerned about Princess Highness!"

Listening to Ash who speaks confidently- Silvia's heart could not help but feel moved and beats heavily.

"Haha ......"

Without realizing Silvia's mood… Ash suddenly burst out laughing.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing. I’m just thinking, no matter how good Lancelot is, to clash directly with Cú Chulainn is just too much."

What Ash said is indeed the truth.

Maestro Cú Chulainn is undoubtedly the strongest Dragon of the entire Academy.

Silvia's order, to face Cú Chulainn head-on, was not only bad judgment but also caused Lancelot to become injured.

"He he. It is because Princess wanted to show her best in front of Veronica-sama."

Hearing Cosette bring up the thing that she is most concerned about… Silvia immediately blushed.

"S-Shut up! Things aren't like what you said!"

Although Silvia is denying it Ash and Cosette still just smile. Her thoughts were seen through completely.

"Haa... I am simply unworthy of becoming Lancelot's master."

Silvia's ashamed and cannot help but say some discouraging words.

"You don't have to belittle yourself!..."

Ash ,even though puzzled, tries to comfort her but she becomes emotional.

"You shut the hell up! I really can’t become Lancelot’s master! Lancelot should have been entrusted to him and not me!"
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p149.jpg|thumb|"Princess Silvia. You have a guest."]]

"Hey ... What do you mean by that?" Ash with a surprised look peeped at Silvia's face.

Silvia suddenly realizes that her tongue slipped.

She carelessly leaked out a long time secret.

"N-Nothing! There’s no big deal! Forget what I just said!"

At this time there was a gentle knock on the door.

"Princess Silvia. You have a guest."

The voice from across the door is that of an old lady . The Epona dormitory’s warden.

It is rare that the warden would personally bring a guest.

“Guest? ...... Who is it? "

Shouldn’t be Anee-ue ... Silvia is terribly frightened, but the name from the warden mouth is not what she expected.

"Glenn McGuire-sama."

"What-!"

"Glenn.... That poker faced guy?" Ash shouted.

As he also sprung up from the chair.

"Sorry to interrupt. Princess Silvia." Glenn said as he entered the room

Glenn knelt down and respectfully saluted.

"...... Glenn-dono. Why are you here?"<ref>This sentence here use a very polite form of speaking or what we called court language since my English is limited please help me correct this.</ref> Silvia spoke putting on a calm front.

She looked downward from her bed towards Glenn.

- When Silvia was still small… Glenn and his brother- Prince Julius often accompanied her and played together.

Julius and Glenn, were not only close friends, they were also rivals. <ref>The rivals here is in the sense of competing with each other.</ref>

It is said that, during the time the two were studying in Ansarivan, they were always competing for the top position. At that time Glenn was a good hearted and lovable guy- but now he felt like a different person.

His beauty still remains, but people cannot feel the change in expression. The feeling of looking at his face is not any better from staring at some ice carvings.

Perhaps his expression has been frozen since the day Julius committed the ''dragon slaying'' crime.

Whenever she saw Glenn’s face… Silvia felt depressed.

"Glenn-dono... If Anee-ue sent you here. Please make the long story short."

"Veronica-sama asked me to visit you and check out your condition.”

"If it is so, as you can see, I do not have any serious problems. So you're satisfied?"

She obviously does not want to say this but Silvia still blurts out words fully soaked in a spicy tone.

"....Understood. I will report clearly to Veronica-sama. Next. I also brought a message from Veronica-sama."

"You may say it."

Feeling a heavy pressure on her stomach, at the same time, Silvia urged him to speak.

A message from Veronica is definitely never a good thing.

"Tomorrow at noon; Veronica-sama is scheduled to pay a visit of condolences on the streets."

"Is it......"

Originally the official reason Veronica visit to Ansrivan is to give condolences to the people involved in the rebuilding of St. Durham Square. It is just that the trouble, Silvia had just faced, caused her to forget completely about it.

"So I need to accompany Anee-ue to give condolences to the affected people. Is that right?"

"No. You don’t need to accompany."

"What did you say?"

The unexpected answer stunned Silvia.

"Veronica-sama’s orders are; "Tomorrow you must go to the St Valleria church to seek for repentance"."

"Repentance? Why?"

"Please forgive me for saying it bluntly... Veronica-sama was angered by your disgrace."

The so-called disgrace should be referring to the fall from the dragon’s back during the Imperial game. At the end of the day… Veronica thought that Silvia's performance was ''simply foolhardy''.

As if that was not enough, just like rubbing salt on the wound, Glenn continued:

"In addition, during the prayers, you’re not allowed to be accompanied by a maid."

"... Is it so? So when the street are full of rejoicing because of anee-ue’s condolences… I must act like a nun praying alone. This is what anee-ue means right?"

Glenn, without looking at the self-mocking Silvia, officially responded:

"I’m nothing but a carrier pigeon. Then… I will be taking my leave."

Silvia impulsively stopped Glenn who was making leave.

"Wait a moment. Glenn-dono!"

".. May I ask what's the problem?"

Just like ice his eyes stare straight towards Silvia.

"Glenn-dono... That is... Have you heard from anee-ue about the marriage? "

"I have heard slightly about it."

Glenn, without blinking an eye, replied coldly.

"Is it?"

Even though marriage is a lifetime event… Glenn's attitude is cold and almost with no feeling.

"...... There is nothing more. You may leave."

Glenn respectfully bows and gets ready to leave the room, but -

"This is the first time I've seen such a detestable carrier pigeon."

Unexpectedly, from the side, Ash calls out loud to retain Glenn.

"Anyway, your attitude, isn't it too much? You're going to be married to the princess… Don’t you have your own will?"

Ash simply throws out Silvia’s question that has been sealed in her heart.

Silvia was so surprised she even forgot to stop him.

Glenn paused to stare back at Ash.

"I’m Princess Veronica’s knight. I must obey the command of Her Highness."

Even as Silvia realized she gave Ash a surprised look and gasped.

"What did you say? So you are saying that you are loyal to her? If she ordered you to die… You would have no objection against dying?"

"Absolutely!"

Glenn readily replied. Which now made the others feel no hint of hesitation.

"You are just like a puppet...... Don’t you have your own will?"

Originally Glenn took the comments, about him dying, as no big deal but now his change in attitude was obviously caused by Ash’s criticism. This time he turned his whole body around and strode towards Ash.

“……You are called Ash Blake. Am I right? Perhaps you have the credit for saving this city but don’t you get carried away because, in the end, you will only play a small role."

Ash frowned because of Glenn’s criticism.

"What do you mean? Are you trying to negate the efforts of Eco and me?"

"I will not deny it. Luck is part of the strength. But -"

At the moment Glenn’s eyes emit a breath-taking aura.

"Remember your own place."

Leaving behind those words, that weigh as heavy as iron, Glenn turned around and left the room.

"That bastard..."

Ash exposed an angry expression staring at the closed door. Even while being stared at by those eyes Ash showed no fear. On the other hand he looked more like a raging pillar of fire.

But Silvia is a contrast to Ash. Her whole body is trembling, even when she was not being stared at, her fingers and knees are shaking.

The gentle and kind Glenn in the past could emit such mournful eyes. This not only caused her feel more pressure but she also couldn't believe it.

===Part 10===
"Damn... Who the hell does he think he is."

Ash, while complaining, walked around in the room angrily.

Presumably… He is annoyed at Glenn for not being able to talk it over with him.

It seems that Ash did not think that "his own strength is never weaker than his".

Seeing Ash’s angry expression Silvia's mood turned a little bit relaxed.

"You might as well take a seat. Look at you, moving around like a monkey, it even makes me feel impatient."

"Sorry..."

Even when Ash obediently sits down, on the chair beside the bed, it is still difficult to eliminate the feeling of hate.

"Princess… Aren’t you angry? In any case. His attitude is a little too cold!" Ash, a bit incoherently, rambles.

"Right. It is cold...... But. He was not such a person years ago."

"How?"

"In the past he was like my other brother. At that time Glenn-dono was as warm as spring... He was also cheerful and a gentleman… He treated me with love like his own sister."

"When did this happen?"

"Anii-ue was sentenced a decade ago. This happened before that…... When I was about four or five years old. Even though my childhood memory is somewhat of a blur, but so far, I still remember clearly that Anii-ue and Glenn-dono loved me very much."

"I see..."

Ash showed an embarrassed expression.

As a result. The felony Anii-ue committed not only hurt the Lautreamont Royal Family but also caused a great impact on his best friend.

"If not because of Anee-ue who stopped him, I’m afraid that Glenn-dono would have already left Knight’s country...... I heard that, when Anii-ue was sentenced, Glenn-dono became dissolute."

"Really?"

"Judging from this… We could say that Anee-ue is the one who saved Glenn-dono. At the same time, it also proves that Anee-ue had a large enough emotional strength<ref>The strength here does not signify muscle strength, it mean mental strength and open mindedness</ref> to save a strong knight such as Glenn-dono."

Silvia's eyes drift out of the window, watching the evening and deep sky, she muttered:

“Her strength is so enormous that I do not have any hope to beat her...... "

"Princess Highness."

Just then… There is sudden knock on the door and Silvia, who has already been traumatized by recent events, shrank in to a ball. At first they thought Glenn came back, but the truth is......

"I’m entering."

The one who swung open the door was actually Rebecca.

"President!"

Rebecca moved towards the bedside and looked at Silvia's face.

"Just now I didn’t hold back. Looking at you with a murderous aura rushing over, I cannot help but want to show my real ability. I have reflected on my immaturity."

Silvia is terrified, she anxiously pulled up the quilt to cover her head.

"If they wanted to discover whose responsibility it is; I was in the wrong. I am to blame, because I was too concerned about Veronica’s attention, and ordered Lancelot to rush out head-on......"

"You do not need to apologize to me… That is but an accident in the game and I did not have any serious injuries."

"Is it? Then I'm relieved."

Seeing Rebecca’s cheeky soft smile… Silvia breathed a sigh of relief.

"Anyway... Why did you purposely come here?"

"Ahh!! Yes, in fact, I was looking for Ash."

"Me?"

Ash was shocked while looking at Rebecca.

"Well, at 7:00 tomorrow morning, there is expected to be an emergency meeting naturally regarding issues about Princess Veronica’s upcoming condolences."

"Understood, but, I cannot guarantee that Princess Veronica promised to allow me to..."

Ash answered without confidence but Rebecca reveals a playful smile.

"I had already forgotten that you are the attendant of Princess Veronica and now you really look a lot more like one”

Ash, while looking down at his own clothing, wore a suffering expression.

"I can’t wait to take it off and throw it away... And. I’m really worried about Eco."

To reduce Ash’s worry Rebecca stated with a smile:

"Don’t worry so much about it, about Eco’s daily life, the student’s council will give her our full support. Initially I had hoped to let Cosette to deal with her but......"

"I'm sorry, but now, Princess’s problem alone had already caused me a lot of problem."

Standing against the wall, Cosette, from the bottom of her heart, bowed and apologized.

Ash looked puzzled.

"Huh? Who is the one responsible for taking care of Eco?"

"For now we made an exception for letting Angela-sensei to help take care of her."

Hearing Rebecca's answer… Ash suddenly turned pale and stood up.

"Why is she given over to the number one most dangerous person?! What if Eco was to be dissected by her!"

"Don’t worry. I think Angela-sensei seems to have changed her ways."

"Are you sure ...?"

“No problem. If Eco encounters any crisis your 'Seikoku' will notify you."

"Y- Your words are true..."

"M- May I ask."

The restless Silvia interrupts from beside. In fact, she was concerned about a problem for a long time.

"Why did the president not ask me to attend tomorrow’s meeting?"

After a long silence, Rebecca said flatly:

"Princess Veronica already told me. Tomorrow you were ordered to go to the church for repentance. Is this not so? How can I appoint any work of the Student Council to you?"

"How come…..."

"If there is any dissatisfaction… Show that your strength is beyond Princess Veronica's."

Rebecca, like she is gloating, states the impossible conditions. Then she took Ash and left.

"Princess VS Princess ~ A.B.S.1365.5 ~" is closed

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==References and Translation Notes==
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|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2

2014-02-09T20:31:15Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases.

==Chapter 2 - Ironblood Valkyrie==
===Part 1===
The following morning, Ash was having his ecology class.

As usual, Eco in her uniform also attended the class, but since the class lecture is too abstruse…...

"Huff… Puff ...."

She was fast asleep on the table.

"……In other words Strada’s element is wind, Asia’s element is wind/earth and Hydra’s element is water."

The one standing on the lectern, lecturing all the students, is Professor Angela. She has an unusual concern about Eco as a researcher, Ash did not wish to let her gain opportunities to approach Eco…...

"Well. What is the Maestro’s element?"

Angela questioned with a stern tone, and her eyes fell on the name list.

"This question….. Let's have Princess Silvia answer it."

Even after she had been called out by Angela… Silvia just gazed blankly outside the window.

"Princess? What’s the problem?"

Angela continued to question her, but Silvia remains silent.

"Geez...Jessica Valentine, please answer."

"Yes!"

Jessica who was named stood up from her seat energetically.

"A Maestro’s element is light."

Jessica proudly replied, but Angela sneered back.

"Correct answer… Although I would like to say that, unfortunately, I can only give you half the marks. A Maestro’s element is light, but that's not just that, Maestros also completely inherit the element that it was born with. In other words. A Maestro, who was once a Strada, has both light and wind elements……”

"Hey. Ash. Is anything wrong with the Princess?"

Raymond who was not paying attention to Angela’s explanation asked Ash.

Ash sighed.

"She...... Since she heard that the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is coming to Ansarivan she always seems to be distracted. It looks like she received some great impact…..."

Raymond seems confused.

"‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is the Princess’s elder sister by blood. Right? What possible impact could she receive from that message?"

"About this. I’m not sure......"

"Do the two of you need my explanations?"

Suddenly someone interrupted their conversation. Ash was shocked.

“Cosette? Why are you here?"

Cosette, sitting obediently in an empty seat, was also wearing the standard uniform for maids who are serving the royals. It was hard to not notice her.

"Hehehe. While her Royal Highness Princess is dispirited I must guard her quietly from the shadows. I also have received the permission from Angela-sensei."

"You call this quietly from the shadows...... However. It really matters to me about the reason that she is suffering."

"You are concerned about her as her classmate? Or as a man?"

Ash suddenly felt his cheeks turn hot.

"Y- You. What are you talking about! Princess and I had fought alongside as comrades and we are both members of the Student Council. It's normal that I’m concerned about her."

"Are you sure? Then I take it that you are telling the truth. Hehe."

Cosette, after her mischievous smile, jumped back into the topic.

"Her Royal Highness Veronica is a well-known warrior. She has a militant-like attitude. Which is also the reason that Princess was forced to do a lot of training when she was young."

“The training. Was it tough?"

"In fact…... I’m not exaggerating if I say she was living in hell every day. The Princess had not only been pushed into lakes she was also sent to the ruins to do exploration, climbed the city walls or was brought to well-known haunted forests to learn to survive in the wild... "

Ash is dumbfounded.

"I think that is plain bullying..."

"Incidentally. I played the role of the ghost in the forest."

"Come on! How come you are also one of the culprits!?"

''Perhaps Silvia's timid side is because of Veronica (and Cosette)…'' Ash thought.

"Because of the shadow of her childhood, Her Royal Highness Veronica has become a symbol of terror in the eyes of the Princess......”

"I see…..."

Leaving alone her violent attitude, it seems that Veronica has a lot of personality problems. Ash, as one of the Student Council members, you will undoubtedly meet this downright "difficult" Princess no matter what.

Just by imagining it… Ash had a headache.

Raymond muttered with a grin:

"The title ‘Ironblood’ is not just for show. However. Ash...... I also like women who are strong."

"Don’t you worry. I won’t ever care what kind of girl you like…..."

"…Strada, Asia and Hydra… What conditions do they require in order to become a Maestro?"

Even when Ash was troubled, Angela’s lesson, of course, will not be interrupted.

"Ash. Please answer this question."

"What? Me?"

Rather abruptly called. Ash appeared to feel embarrassed.

Angela's sight was as sharp as a scalpel. Just by being stared at by her made you feel like you were lying on the operation table waiting to be butchered.

On the other hand, that dangerous glare, at the same time, seemed to fall on Eco, who was sleeping.

Ash's spine shuddered. From his seat he silently stood.

“Uh-h…... I don’t know."

"Correct."

"I'm sorry... What? Correct?"

Angela revealed a playful smile.

"That’s right. About the reasons the dragons transform into a Maestro, there are different opinions among scholars, the truth has yet to be found out."

Angela closed the textbook and looked around the students.

"However. The old record shows that all dragons will eventually become a Maestro naturally. Although from the verge of extinction the number of Maestros dropped significantly, but logically, each dragon should qualify to become a Maestro."

The students immediately turned into quite a storm.

It was also the first time that Ash heard about it.

"That is why the existence of a Breeder had become a problem. Why now in the modern times, dragons that died before they become a Maestro had become the Majority...... Perhaps. The key factor of becoming a Maestro is in the hands of a Breeder."

The school bell, that announced the class dismissal, sounded at that time.

Silvia, under Cosette's assistance, shakily left the classroom. While Ash had an uneasy feeling.

"The Princess is alright… Right......?"

There are six more days before Princess Veronica’s visit……

Even though Silvia still can’t calm down the days of Princess Veronica’s visit are nearing.

Why did Veronica choose this period to visit Ansarivan?

"Officially 'This visit is to inspect the Ansarivan City which was under attack' but according to rumour Veronica is a representative of the Royal Knight’s Hawks."<ref>骑士王室鹰派 lit. "Hawks Division of the Royal Knights".</ref>

The inspection should be a cover. The true reason was to investigate the condition of the city and the strength of the Necromancia. - This was Rebecca’s point of view.

In fact. Veronica had been involved in the strife between races all across the continent and she has the experience of stopping a war.

It is said that she was only twelve years old during her first expedition.

Even though she was not selected to become a Breeder, Veronica, who needed to overcome her congenital condition which put her at a disadvantage, was extremely powerful and braver than anyone on the battlefield.

She led the way and charged forward chopping down the enemy mercilessly one by one.

There is a rumour, that whenever Veronica swung her sword, three heads were sent flying through the air at the same time.

Wise and strong.

Victorious and has never been at a disadvantage.

There is no swordsman whose skill is on par with her.

Veronica became famous after she killed a basilisk with just her sword alone. Even poet laureates turned her achievement into poetry. Basilisks were big violent lizards. Others see them as the next of kin of an Asia.

The famous Veronica was given the nickname ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ by the people.

According to Rebecca, once the people heard that Veronica was coming to Ansarivan, people suddenly frowned.

Veronica, in order to extinguish the flames of war on the continent, heroically fought in the war in her teens. However she had also indirectly become the cause of problems.

Veronica unconsciously made a lot of enemies.

The remnants of the rebels still wanted to take Veronica’s life. It was not surprising that she could be assassinated at any given time.

Just right after the attack of the Necromancia another difficult task was received. Anyone can tell that the chief of Ansarivan is now in trouble.

===Part 2===
The midday bell rang loudly.

Led by the mayor and the principal, the important figures of the City Council & Academy Council and also the members of the Student Council...... A welcoming group of more than 20 people was lining up at the entrance of the school’s first block waiting for the arrival of Veronica.

"For Princess Veronica to visit the city personally...... How long has passed since her previous visit?"

Dr Angela Cornwell, who changed her usual white robes for her rarely seen formal dress, also joined the welcoming party.

Angela, who unexpectedly became a lecturer recently, was in fact a national treasure that is given a high authority in doing research.

Although all the representatives of Ansarivan were gathered together, for the occasion of welcoming a princess, such numbers were regarded to be on a very small scale. Logically speaking… Even mobilization of all the members of the public to hold a grand welcome ceremony would not be unexpected.

However. Veronica was well known for her preferences to keep things simple. They even received prior notice, to dispense with all the complicated ceremony, so even the school was operating as usual.

The Students’ Council was represented by Rebecca, Max, Ash, as well as Eco. Not only that but also the figures of Maestro Cú Chulainn and Maestro Arianrhod could be seen.

Cú Chulainn is Rebecca's Pal and is also truly the Academy’s strongest Maestro.

His silver fur was really dazzling and its unbelievable growth making him unable to put on any mounting gear on his mammoth like body. It makes anyone who saw him stare dumbfounded.

On the other hand, Arianrhod is Max's Pal, although he is already a noble Maestro, but his age is still that of a child. Different from the imposing Cú Chulainn, he is surrounded with an atmosphere that makes people want to pamper him.

"Hey, Eco, are your really...... Are you, too, going to welcome Princess Veronica?"

"What? Do you have something against it?" Eco quipped.

Eco joined the welcome party as the mascot of the student’s council and was wearing the same black dress that she wore during the ceremony before. It seems she has taken quite a liking to it.

That aside, it was the problem with Silvia that made people a lot more worried.

"The Princess, is she really not coming?"

After hearing Ash’s question, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders and sighed.

"Look, if she was scared to that extent, we can't possibly force her to participate in this. Right? She seems to have some considerable trauma regarding Veronica."

"It is really hard to believe that she turned out to be so afraid of her own sister..."

"Who's afraid of what?"

The person who interrupted Ash was precisely Silvia herself.

"Princess…!"

City Council and the School Council immediately bowed respectfully upon the appearance of Silvia.

The Silvia with her status as Princess generously replied "Thanks for your hard work" and approached them.

"Are you all right now?"

Immediately after Ash spoke to her, Silvia exposed a smile brimming with confidence.

Not only did she look pumped up but also her hair was a lot more glossier than ever. Despite wearing her uniform she looked a lot more dashing than her usual self.

"Who do you think you're talking to? I'm Silvia Lautreamont! Even though I had displayed an unbecoming side of mine, before, but now I’m alright."

"Is that so?...... Then I’m relieved."

Although it was surprising that she looked a bit too well… For now that should be enough to be assured.

While Ash was thinking that to himself Rebecca lectured her in a stern tone.

"How can you be so insouciant? Silvia, as a Dragner, how can you meet your sister without Lancelot?"

Lancelot is also a Maestro. Silvia's Pal. Because of the attacks from a few days ago Ash has become very familiar with that dragon.

"Sorry that there was no prior notice...... Anee-ue, she doesn't really like Lancelot."

Silvia’s answer made Rebecca frown.

"Is this related to Veronica not having been chosen as a Breeder?"

"Well...... It should be something like that."

After throwing a glance at Silvia, who gave such strangely ambiguous answer, for some reason, Rebecca revealed a merciful smile.

"If that is so let's leave it like that."

"...?"

Ash couldn't understand what Rebecca was thinking.

At that moment all the adults began to chatter something.

“I can see it!”

"Oooh! That is Princess Veronica's......!"

"They were even able to make such a vehicle!"

"It seems similar to an Empire-made<ref>For those who don’t know Empire is Zepharos Empire and Kingdom is Chevron Kingdom.</ref> airship ...!"

Ash, too, couldn't help but curiously look up into the blue skies.

A foreign body, that could not be natural, appeared near the edge of the cobalt blue sky.

As the minutes ticked past it grew, from the black dot of that foreign body, as its outlines were gradually revealed.

That flying body was escorted by seven Dragners.

"...... It couldn't be!"

To Ash’s dismay he couldn't help shouting out loud.

By comparing it to the dragons flying alongside one could immediately get a feeling of the actual size of the gigantic ship. In contrast to the huge flying object even the dragons, that served as the guard, looked just like beans.

Standing beside Ash, Rebecca, looking sternly, said:

"That is Princess Veronica’s personal plane. - The magicship ‘Silvanus’."

===Part 3===
—Silvanus.

This is done by Princess Veronique who gathered all the exiled scientists of the Zepharos Empire which successfully developed the beta version of the ship.

Silvanus, looking like it was going to occupy the entire open space, slowly landed in front of the school’s block. Like a bird that lands on the lake… The landing was very stable.

The magicship design is widely based on a streamlined shape which often makes people think that it's a Maestro with outspread wings.

The red lines together with the white colour armor produced a stunning appearance.

And attached at many locations on the body of the magicship are the cannons’ trapdoors.

Ash staring at the magnificent magicship dumbly.

He had heard so much about Silvanus but this is the first time he witnessed it with his own eyes.

"This thing is just too big…... How can it fly?"

Seeing that Ash was transfixed in his place Silvia explained:

"This magicship uses Bright Dragon Crystal as fuel. Anee-ue, even though she didn’t become a breeder, utilizes the combination of Dragon’s magic and Mechanical Engineering technology from the Empire to construct the Silvanus."

"So, literally, it was the Oracle’s power that allows it to fly......!"

"That is the way it is. But the only thing that can be used as fuel is a special type of Bright Dragon Crystal called Millennium so there is no method of mass production."

“Millennium?"

"The dragon fossils in the ground, after a thousand years, may produce crystals with massive power.

"I don’t even know about this......"

"It's just that, Silvanus, compared to an Empire made aviation ship, not only it has a small size, but also the defense has some problems. The places where the armor is weak can only be reinforced by Dragner. You have already seen it right?'

Silvia was right, as just now, the seven Dragner serving as escort precisely landed each of their dragons on the ground.

Out of the seven Dragner only the leading one is with an Ark and likely the escort’s captain.

"Veronica is going to alight the ship so please do not whisper." Rebecca, with a low voice, scolded them.

Ash and Silvia had no choice now but to keep their mouths shut.

As the crowd watched, Silvanus's door slowly opened, accompanied by operating noise of it's gears, the boarding ladder was automatically lowered.

Under the gaze of everyone-.

The Ironblood Valkyrie, escorted only by the sound of her footsteps, was just like iron being hit with a metal hammer, landed on the ground.

Ash gasped, his eyes fixed on Veronica’s figure.

''Even though called a princess… She looked more like a Valkyrie'' Ash thought so.

It is not surprising that she is Silvia’s sister as the two of them looked identical.

Their dazzling blond hair and white skin is their most common feature.

However. The aura, that her tall slender figure emits, outshone Silvia.

The important thing is her eyes.

Like an eagle, who fixed on its prey ,from up high.

Her eyes are as sharp as blade. Just by being stared at by her it feel like the heart had been thoroughly pierced through.

Flipping over her red cloak… Veronica with a loud voice said:

"Thank you everyone who came here to welcome me. Sorry for the trouble!"

That voice was powerful like a highly resilient whip.

When the cloak is flipped up, instantly, the armor on Veronica’s limbs was exposed.

Obviously they are crafted with steel being heavy and yet dazzling. Only then Ash realized that the unusual sounds of footsteps are the sounds of her sabatons<ref>Foot guards or iron boots, generally not found on most armor.</ref>.

She wore a broad sword which apparently required both hands to wield. Presumably that sword is the weapon that drew the blood of numerous rebels and the basilisk.

Veronica, now led by seven escorts, was marching towards here.

A group led by the mayor panicked and wanted to kneel down and salute, but Veronica with a disgusted look on her face waved them off.

"Please forget about those unnecessary and over-elaborate formalities. More importantly… Where is Silvia?"

With the speed of a hawk’s eye she quickly scanned the faces of the crowd.

“We haven’t meet for a long time. Anee-ue. "

Silvia answered Veronica’s call by stepping forward.

"We haven’t met each other in four years, two months and twelve days my dear sister."

"From the day I left the palace to come to Ansarivan for my school enrollment… We haven’t met each other."

The way Silvia speaks with such fluency is calmer than what he expect.

Ash quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

However-

The next instant, Ironblood Valkyrie revealed her true nature which matches with her nickname.

"I'm really disappointed. Silvia!"

Veronica raised her right hand.

Just when he thought that Silvia was going to be slapped, the next second Ash witnessed an incredible scenario.

Silvia easily avoid Veronica’s palm and more easily jumped five meters off. She even did a somersault in mid-air gorgeously landing on the ground.

No matter what… That doesn’t look like a skill of a normal human.

"Are you mad. Anee-ue?"

Silvia smiled haughtily.

For Ash, at least, that it's the first time seeing Silvia laugh that way.

"How dare make fun me...... It seems like you had borrowed some guts from heaven. Faker!"

After a moment of silence… Ash cried out in dismay.

"Fake!?"

"Whew…... I already knew such thing."

Rebecca standing beside Ash muttered softly. It seems that Rebecca since long ago had known the truth.

"Tee hee. This action is worthy of Veronica Her Royal Highness."

Originally he thought that Silvia is making some tearing sound but then she ripped off her mask, together with her blond hair wig, from her face.

And the true face behind the mask is-

"Cosette?"

Ash is dumbfounded.

The 20 people, from the welcome party led by the mayor, are also speechless from the unexpected change of events.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p087.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough… There's no hiding from the eyes of Veronica Her Royal Highness."

Cosette, facing the Ironblood Valkyrie face to face, not only she didn’t act timid she even exposed a happy smile.

"That is obvious because I didn’t feel any fear from you! The Silvia who is not afraid of me is not Silvia!"

"Hehe...... I will use that as a future reference."

Her insolent answer makes Veronica frown.

"I regret that a woman like you is not able to become my underling. How about it… Cosette? It is still never too late. Come and follow me!"

Cosette with a resolute attitude answer.

"The person I serve… - Is only Princess Silvia-sama."

"That kind of timid blond girl? What are her good points?

"Everything about her are her good points. "

Cosette answered without a hint of confusion and at the same time everyone beside her was given the shock of their life.

"Tsk…... All the nonsense will stop here. You better quickly tell me. Where is Silvia?"

"Princess..."

While Cosette stiffen her face, trying to wriggle out -

"I... I'm here!"

Silvia in her uniform appeared behind the welcome party.

This time should be correct. The real Silvia now made the others dismay with her trembling legs is the best evidence.

"Will Her Royal Highness Princess be alright…...?"

Ash muttered nervously.

"Rest assured, at least, her life is safe."

Rebecca calm expression, said those terrifying words.

"You... You are dismissed. Cosette."

"I will. Princess."

After receiving Silvia’s command… Cosette leaves with a serious expression on her face.

===Part 4===
Under the gaze of the welcome party and escort the first Princess and the fourth Princess officially met.

"Anything not alright, my dear sister? Look at your knees, shaking like that?"

"I-I am not...... trembling. Silvia Lautreamont herself wholeheartedly...... Welcomes Anee-ue’s arrival."

"Tsk. Seems to me, that apart from your breast and your butt, you did not grow at all."

''Clink''... With the sound of her sabatons Veronica stepped forward.

"I’ll say again. Silvia, you disappoint me!"

''- WHACK!''

A hard and dry sound echoed in all four corners.

Veronica's iron-fisted swing toward Silvia which ended as a slap in the face.

"Sob ...!"

Silvia cannot help but stagger, but she eventually stayed firm, however the place that was slapped became swollen.

Veronica coldly stared at Silvia and with a plain tone she said:

"... I had already heard the report of the attacks. Rebecca Randall courageously protect the city and also the mysterious person who cleverly drove out the Necromancia are worthy to be praise."

Ash was surprised.

Because the one who drove out the Necromancia was no other than Ash himself.

"But what do you do? Even though there is someone who witnessed Lancelot flying in the sky, but…... you are helplessly circling aimlessly in the sky, right?"

Silvia is speechless and just kept on trembling.

Ash annoyingly clenched his fists.

The information seems like it is not properly conveyed to Veronica. Perhaps the focus is placed on the fact that Ash drove off the Necromancia resulting in the middle part of the fight having been omitted.

The problem is that, the Silvia and Ash, fought side by side.

Without the assistance of Silvia Ash cannot single-handedly defeat the Necromancia.

Ash is anxious, but Veronica naturally does not know about this, and thus she declare:

"Accept the punishment, Silvia."

Those who are watching… None of them are not looking pale.

Veronica pulled out a the broad-sword hanging around her waist.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p002-003.jpg|thumb|''there is a silver flash. The sound of the wind whizzing. Without knowing how much blood it drew in the past the broad sword, shining with a glaring light, rushed towards Silvia.'']]

Before there is any chance to respond there was a silver flash in front of everyones’ eyes. Even though it seemed like a gigantic two-handed sword Veronica easily wielded it with one hand.

The sound of the wind whizzing.

Without knowing how much blood it drew in the past the broad sword, shining with a glaring light, rushed towards Silvia.

"-!"

Silvia's chest was glazed pitifully.

"Princess!"

Ash was scared and he screamed.

“Silvia-sama! "

"Veronica-sama has lost her mind!"

"How could such absurd thing occur!"

"Doctor, quickly call for a doctor!"

The members welcome party one after another starts to moan.

From the beginning of the incident those who didn’t start yelling at all, and kept their cool, were only Rebecca, Cosette, and Angela.

Silvia, who was glazed on her chest hobbled, in the end her butt fell on the ground.

Unbelievably, there was no blood.

And then her uniform suddenly fragmented further, turning into pieces of of cloth, together with her underclothes which fell off gently… As if the clothing suddenly remembered the fact that they are just been Slashed.

"Huh ...?"

Silvia froze a moment looking downward feeling puzzled.

It turned out that Veronica’s slash only cut off her clothes that wrapped around Silvia’s upper body.

Her shoulder is as white as snow, her busty breast, and the contract imprinted on her chest- 'Seikoku' all of them were exposed in broad daylight.

"Kyaa......!"

Silvia red in the face scream at the top of her voice, with both her hands, covered her chest.

"Princess!"

Ash could stand it no longer and rushed forward. He quickly took off his jacket and draped it over Silvia's body.

"......?"

The moment he witnesses Silvia’s <Seikoku> Ash suddenly sensed something strange, although confused, but now is not the time to be concerned about such problem.

Veronica looked coldly at Ash’s action then she put back her broad-sword back in its sheath.

"Anything wrong Silvia? If you encountered the same situation on the battlefield… Will you only scream to hide your embarrassment?"

Silvia could not talk back as there were tears filling her eyes.

"Look, this is your nature. Even when you wore the aura of a Dragner, you are just a good for nothing blond. It is better for you to pursue the so-called woman's happiness!"

"...... What do you mean by this?"

Veronica’s behaviour of scolding Silvia, made Ash furious.

The anger that he is holding back for a long time suddenly exploded.

Even that he is facing the first Princess he cannot just sit by and watch any longer.

"Hey. -Hey…... Ash?"

Ash's menacing walk forward made Max quickly whisper from behind to stop him. However Ash naturally turn a deaf ear.

Logically speaking the one who should be the first to stop Ash should be Rebecca but without knowing what she is thinking or maybe she is just waiting for a nice show… She didn’t comment on anything.

Ash sternly talk to Veronica.

"I do not know how great the first princess is…… But since you were not there when the incident took place what is this nonsense, that you are now talking about just now, based on!"

The moment he blurted it out a sharp sword was pointed at Ash’s neck.

“Uhh……!”

Ash was caught by surprise. The one who pointed the sword at him is the Dragner who he suspected was the captain of the escort.

The man has a beautiful face, and there is nothing wrong in calling him good-looking. Just that his pair of eyes hidden under his Ark has a cold glare, hard to feel a single trace of emotion. Ash felt like he was being stared at by a ghost.

"Glenn! Whatever next? The opposite party is just an ordinary student.”

"Sorry. Her Royal Highness Princess."

Ordered by Veronica the Ark-Dragner called Glenn obediently stepped aside.

The moment Ash is free from the sword he broke out into a cold sweat.

Lucky that the sword pointing at him is just a normal sword. If at that time what he had pulled out was the Ark-Dragner's personal Ark-weapon, maybe even with just magic fluctuations alone, it might have been enough to remove his head.

"Long time no see Princess Veronica-sama."

Waiting until now… Rebecca finally made her move. She stood in front of Ash and respectfully gave a bow.

"Oh. Aren’t you Rebecca? Why are you still staying in this school fooling around? I would like to advise you to hurry up and quit school and join our Dragners."<ref> Full name should be Dragners of Lautreamont since my raws just write half the name I will let it be.</ref>.

Rebecca with her elegant response resolve Veronica’s pressure.

"I had for many time declined the invitation to join the Dragners and now I just want to enjoy my identity as a student."

"Hmm. You obviously haven’t been able to learn anything new from this school for some time… I really do not understand you. Having said that is this guy also from the student council?"

Veronica's suddenly stare at him made Ash’s hair stand.

“Yes. That's right."

"It seems that you have recruited a subordinate who is full of energy."

"...... May I tell you something?"

Veronica's generously nodded regarding Rebecca request, indicated she didn't seem particularly displeased.

Leaning towards Veronica’s ear, Rebecca softly whispered something.

Veronica’s eyes suddenly shined brightly.

The gaze from her eyes, even Cú Chulainn, Arianrhod and also Eco and the other Dragons can also feel the fear.

There are such rumors in the society-

It is said that the reason that Veronica was not chosen as a breeder during the 'Orphan Ceremony' is the mother of the dragon though that the eyes of the seven years old Veronica was much too frightening-

"Hmm…... Seems like I don’t even need to waste any effort. It saves me from the trouble to find him. Glenn, arrest that guy for me!"

"Yes. Princess."

With Veronica’s order Glenn immediately took action.

"Wh- What are you doing!"

But in a blink of an eye, Ash was caught by Glenn and he was place under his armpit.

"Hey…. Let me down!"

While feeling the cold temperature from the Ark at the same time, Ash is swinging his limbs and struggling.

But the more Ash struggled… Glenn’s hands, holding his body, became tigher and tighter. That kind of strength surprised everyone and maybe it is the Ark which enhanced his arm’s strength .

"I have a mountain of problems and I want to question you."

Veronica left the welcoming party as they stood frightened. She lifted her cloak and walked towards the school building.

===Part 5===
Veronica does not appear to be visiting Ansarivan for the first time, as if she is familiar with the environment, she open the door of the guest room.

-In the beginning there is only the three of them Veronica, Glenn, and Ash in the room.

"You all go and 'wash' the school premises."

After being given orders by their captain Glenn the other six escorts salute and split up.

The 'Wash' is not as simple as the literal meaning but it is to find and to remove suspicious persons and items which act as cypher. Even Ash understand this.

This is Ash's first time in the guest room.

Ansarivan, anyhow, is a special Academy for breeders so naturally there are always a lot of domestic and foreign nobles who come to visit. For the guest room; only the word 'gorgeous' can be used to describe its design.

Even the furniture such as sofas, tables, carpets, and bookshelves, are all imported from the Chevron Kingdom.

Unfortunately. Ash cannot enjoy such a classy atmosphere.

"Glenn. Put that kid on the chair."

"Yes. Princess."

Glenn, without any expression answered, dragged Ash to chair nearby and let him sit on it.

"By the way. Tie him up."

"Yes. Princess."

"The ass who keeps on 'Yes. Princess-ing!' St- Stop right now-"

Although Ash made his best effort to resist his opponent, being the Captain of the escort, without a doubt he is no match for him.

With some rope and binding tools, Ash is easily tied on the chair, and even he lost his own ability to stand up.

"What do you want!?"

The cold white sword is at the back of Ash’s neck

"Little devil, the one you’re speaking to is Princess Veronica Lautreamont, Her Royal Highness, you should not make any rude remarks."

Veronica scolded Glenn:

"Don’t make things any more difficult for him, according to Rebecca, he seems to be the one who drove away the Necromancia, the hero who saved Ansarivan, we must thank him properly with courtesy."

"Is this what you call courtesy?!"

Ash was so agitated that he almost fell to the ground with the chair. Being tied up indiscriminately, and they even dare to talk about courtesy.

Unfortunately. Ash’s complaints was completely ignored.

"But, Veronica-sama, this student is way too much savage and rude."

"Glenn, in this world, only achievement and result mean anything, why do we care about that rude point?"

"The problem is-"

"Do you have any opinions regarding what I just said?"

Veronica's eyes suddenly release a murderous intent. Even the amazing men like the captain kept his silence.

"I beg your forgiveness. A small slip of my tongue."

The moment when Glenn is apologizing-

The door was suddenly hit open followed by some noisy sound.

"Hold on! You. What are you doing to my slave?!"

Unexpectedly. Eco actually rushed in. Perhaps she ran all her way here. Her cheeks are bright red.

"...... Eco?"

"Huu? Hey brat don’t tell me you are this child’s slave?"

When he heard Veronica emphasis on the word "slave" Ash shook his head and rejected it.

"I-I am not her slave!"

"Hmm. It seems things are not as simple as it seems ..."

"About the relationship between the two of them. I will explain it to you later."

The person who appeared from behind Eco is Angela.

Beside Angela is Rebecca with a bitter smile.

"You still cause a lot of trouble. Ash. "

So-

The meeting with Veronica is going to start with the absence of the mayor, the council and the principal.

===Part 6===
Although she is in the guest room, Veronica refuses to take off her armor, which makes him remember about the Valkyrie in the fairy tales.

"That armor... Ain’t it heavy?"

Ash casually asked but Veronica threw him a cold glare.

"A silly question. Armor is beauty! Apart from bathing and sleeping, I always remind myself to wear my armor as much as possible."

"Really..."

While ignoring Ash, who is stunned, Veronica looked around the crowd.

"We will sit right there."

Following Veronica’s proposal everyone move towards the sofa. Angela, Rebecca, and Eco following in sequence until they are sitting opposite to Veronica.

"Uh ... What about me?"

Seeing that the sofa seems fluffy, which should be very comfortable to sit on, but Ash was the only one to be tied to the chair.

Ash felt baffled because why must he be tied up like a prisoner.

"Oops. I had already forgotten your presence. Glenn, go carry him over.

"Yes. Princess."

Glenn lifted Ash up, altogether with the chair, and moved them both next to the sofa. Then he silently moved to the door and stood up straight.

"Well…... I think you should have known that my purpose for coming to Ansarivan is not just for condolences."

"Is the purpose of your trip's is really to investigate the Necromancia’s incident?"

Angela's eyes bursting out a light of intellectual through the lens.

"Ermm. I must be at the place of the incident to find out the truth that cannot be written in the report. Now please do not waste any more time. Can I trouble one of you to describe the attacks that occurred?"

"Then I will say it."

Rebecca who was actually involved in the fight began to talk about the situation of that time.

===Part 7===
After listening to Rebecca's explanation. Veronica sighed.

"Well...... Does it mean that at present we still cannot identify the identity of the culprit? Only that, if what is recorded in the report regarding Eco’s Dragweiss is true, then the Necromancia is magic engineering. To put it bluntly it would be the product of magic and engineering. Engineering has always been the Zepharos Empire pride, maybe the mastermind is in the Empire’s army…... Rebecca what’s your opinion?"

"I also think that the Empire is the greatest suspect, but…... I do not know whether it should be counted as fortunately or unfortunately but the Empire’s territory doesn’t include the dragons’ habitat."

"Then what is the problem?"

"The problem is, this attack is originated from a 'dragon', but unless we find some definite evidence, even if we investigate the Empire on diplomatic reasons, I am afraid it will be futile. The other side will certainly point out that ‘problems of dealing with dragons are the Knights of Lautreamont’s business' to stall any investigations."

"Hmm. What Rebecca says's is not unreasonable….... It seems like the search of evidence must go on, but, then again-"

Veronica without warning stared at Ash.

"So the hero who successfully resolved the severe crisis… Is this kid?"

"......"

Since he was tied to a chair it made him impossible to hide.

Ash took a grip on himself, put on some courage, and stared back into Veronica’s eyes.

"Hmm. Very manly."

Veronica grins while admiring him.

"Thank you for your praise."

"Well. I want to hear it from you. The most confusing spot on the report is how you defeated the monster.

"Th- That is......"

Ash doesn’t know where he is going to start from, but Eco suddenly shouted:

"If you want to ask that question… How can you forget about me!?"

"Hmm…... Then I will listen to you. Little bean<ref>"Little bean" is more commonly used as a nickname of little boys who are small size, but also use for girls who are consider cute, energetic, and boyish.</ref>."

"My name is Eco, Eco!"

"For a shorty like you, little bean is enough for you, if you are not satisfied I don’t mind calling you daphnia<ref>Small, planktonic crustaceans, I have no idea where the author got this idea from.</ref>!"

"Y-You really have a foul mouth! How dare you call a noble Dragon a daphnia!"

Eco was jumping around angrily which completely spoiled the nice black dress she had put on.

"Please forgive me for interrupting. Princess Veronica. She is Ash Blake’s Pal and at the same time she is also the reason that the Necromancia was able to be repelled… Young Dragon Eco."

To help Eco to get rid of her embarrassment, Angela respectfully explains.

"Oh. This shorty?...... I see, when you look closely, there are horns on her head."

Veronica eyes suddenly shine.

"Then you must quickly transform and show it to me."

"Huh? What am I going to transform?"

Eco impetuously looking at Veronica.

“Do you even need to ask, of course the Ark. I heard that it is because you presented the Ark to this kid… Only then he was able to defeat the Necromancia."

"What!...... P-P-Presented?"

Eco jumped up on the spot.

Her whole face including her ears are flushed.

"Ple-Please stop joking! That was just an emergency makeshift. W-Why must I present the Ark to this guy!"

"Your reaction is really interesting. Why would you should strongly deny him to this extent?"

Veronica, seemingly like from the depth of her heart, was curiously and wildly interested. She intended to scrutinize Eco.

Angela with a bitter smile explained:

“For dragons, to present the Ark is a proof of loyalty to their master, the meaning is no different when compared to marriage. Having said that, Eco has not yet recognized Ash as her master. Besides that her personality of hers is…..."

"That said… She just called her owner 'slave'. It's really disappointing to hear that the great hero who saved the city who made me think him as a great man…... But in the end, you who is called Ash, couldn’t even tame your own Pal?"

"Err ..."

When he was looked down upon. Ash felt bitterness in his heart. When he was seen as a worthless thing, by the beauty of the century, naturally he experienced an extraordinary degree of suffering.

"Forget about that, I hereby re-ordered to you instantly show the Ark you wore when defeating the Necromancia. And also, not letting the others help you, show me how you get loose from being tied."

After hearing that Ash understood why Veronica wanted him to be tied up.

All of that is for this moment.

Perhaps she thinks, that when Ash is in the ark, it would be child play for him to let break himself free from those ropes!

Veronica even gives her orders as Princess.

The situation does not easily allow either Eco or Ash to refuse.

"Are you able to do it? Eco?"

Ash nervously asked, but Eco with confidence said:

"Why. sure I can! The Ark that has already been completed and I can re-summon it for you anytime!"

===Part 8===
Eco stood still in the centre of the room and like a nun she close her eyes while beginning to chant the incantations.

"Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar......"

Even this is Ash’s first time witnessing the process of Eco constructing the Ark.

"Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas ......"

Veronica, who before has always looked calm, was witnessing the whole process with a nervous expression.

Rebecca, with a keen look, is also observing Eco.

Even Glenn, who is normally emotionless, unconsciously glanced at Eco.

“Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas... "

As for Angela, she quickly took out a pen and paper and records the detail of the situation.

"Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes..."

The only thing is, although it is a very solemn ceremony, since Ash was the only one to be tied to a chair he has no feeling of nervousness.

“-Espolón!"<ref>The chant is made of parts of a suit of armorin spanish. They are, in order "armet" (a head protection similar to a helmet, but more comfortable), "gorget" (neck protector), "breastplate" (for the breast), "backplate" (for the back), "chausses" (sock or tights made from chain mail), "faulds" (something like a metal skirt to protect what must be protected), "tassets" (little plaques that hang from the faulds to better protect the leg area), "gardbaces" (for the collarbone), "pauldron" (for the shoulder), "rerebrace" (for the upper arm), "couters" (for the shoulders), "forearms" (this is a body part; i suppose she meant "vambraces"), "gauntlets" (for the hands), "cuisses" (for the upper leg), "guards" (to cover the mobile parts, I suppose she meant "poleyns" for the knees), "greaves" (for the lower leg), "sabatons" (for the feet) and "spurs" (a short spike or spiked wheel that attaches to the heel of a rider's boot or knight's sabaton and is used to urge a {{Furigana|horse|dragon|margin=13}} forwar; the word selected names the single spike kind that, on occasions, can double as a stabbing weapon). </ref>.

After Eco shouted the last word, a shining white light enveloped in the room, a thunder-like rumble can be heard.

At the same time Ash can feel his own body coated by powerful magic.

-Similar to that time......!

Ash remembers the fight with the Necromancia.

The <Seikoku> on his left arm was glowing and it is painful.

When the pain reach its maximum point… Ash’s body wrapped itself in a silver Ark.

It was a completely a weightless, magically constructed, Ark.

Perhaps they cannot withstand the magic released by the Ark, the binding tools, the ropes and the chair exploded.

"Oh ... there is a proverb in the east that said 'The Buddha has to be covered with golden cloth, and man must be covered with cloth”<ref>This proverb means that everybody must present themselves in what is suitable for them.</ref>, and the Ark really suits you. Glenn, what are your opinions? In your eyes does that look like an Ark?"

Glenn respectfully answered the Veronica’s question:

"Yes. I can’t be wrong. I sensed the unique magic that only the Ark possesses, and its element should be light, it is just that..."

"It's just that?"

"It is not exaggerating to say that it is an armor which doesn’t completely have the feel of its creator."

As worthy of the captain of the escort. Glenn’s opinion directly hit the point.

"You cannot blame me for this!"

Eco declare to Glenn.

It is undeniable that Eco is still a young dragon and does not have the power to create the Ark.

On the other hand she was able to take the individual armor body parts, which were particularly suitable to Ash's body, from the massive blueprint stored in the Dragweiss, and then reassemble them. Thus the present Ark was created.

"But... I don’t understand, even if this is not a complete Ark, what good does it do?"

Angela answered Veronica’s simple question.

"To tell the truth… He has a special talent. Although I have not yet identified the reason... He has a nickname of ‘The Boy Who Can Ride Any Dragon’ in this school, and as far as I know, he is the only person who can ride the others people's pal and his own. "

"I see. So the rare talent and the incomplete Ark enabled him to successfully defeat the Necromancia?"

Upon seeing Veronica’s happy facial expression Ash becomes angry.

"The facts are not like what you say! If not because of Princess-sama, leading Lancelot to assist me, it would never have been possible for me to jump on to the Necromancia! But you… How you treat Princess!"

However, Veronica, even after listening to Ash’s claims, remained unmoved.

"In other words; Silvia only played the role of a 'driver'."

Veronica’s comments towards Silvia are still bitter as ever.

Just at this time the Ark turned into light particles and vanished.

Upon seeing this, Veronica curls her lip to expose a harsh sneer.

"There is a time limit? Because of that it cannot be called a weapon, but it looks like it can be used as an entertainment tool for sideshow."

The Veronica’s tone angered Ash.

"This is not a sideshow! Although it is just temporary assembled. It is still an Ark that Eco created!"

“Are you Dumb? Weapons that only last a few minutes, if it is not a sideshow, what is it?"

"Err ..."

"Also... Your relationship with Silvia is quite close. Are you a couple?"

At the very start to be asked such blatant questions made Ash blush. What’s more, hearing the word "couple" coming from Veronica’s mouth is also unexpected.

"I- I. How are we a couple!"

"Hmm, a weird reaction, which made people dissatisfied…... I am really very dissatisfied!"

Veronica stood up from the couch, and stood before Ash.

"Well, I have decided! Ash, or whatever, I command you to temporarily serve as my servant! Glenn. Catch this kid for me!"

"Yes. Princess."

"What? Your nonsense… Are you even- Ouch. Owow!"

Glenn didn’t give Ash any chance to raise any objections and carried him off under his armpit.

"Glenn. Prepare to head back to Silvanus.”

Veronica flips her cloak and left the room. Glenn, regardless of the resisting Ash, left following Veronica.

"Ironblood Valkyrie ~A.B.S.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1

2014-02-09T01:47:17Z

Aoi uchuu:

==Chapter 1 - Silver Knight==
=== Part 1 ===

Have you heard of it before?

Recently. A hero succeeded in preventing the monster called Necromancia from destroying the city of Ansarivan. According to witnesses, the hero seemed to be dressed in a silver-colored Ark<ref>聖騎甲（アーク） Āku, lit. "Holy Rider Armor") - An unique set of armor Ark-Dragners receive from their Maestro.</ref>.

If not for the hero… The city probably would have already been in ruins. The worst possible situation is maybe the whole district… Err no. It would have not been surprising if the whole Ansarivan city were razed to the ground.

However, so far, no one there knows the hero’s true identity.

As he was dressed in an Ark. So he must have been an Ark-Dragner.

His purpose was not to show off his skills and he did not ask for anything as a reward.

Ahh!!! He is such an honorable and noble person! The Knight of all Knights can’t be anyone apart from him!

So let's call him 'Silver Knight'.

From here on… We gradually announce the establishment of the SKFC (Sliver Knight Fan Club)!

Anyone interested in becoming a member will be welcomed!

SKFC President Jessica Valentine (Advanced Course first year).

===Part 2===

"... So this is your first errand?"

Ash felt Eco looking at him from behind. So he turned around and nodded in response.

"Yeah. Since I’m in charge of General Affairs."

There is a big bulletin board facing the staff room on the ground floor corridor of the campus. The surface of the board was completely disorganized and there were also some unauthorized posters. Ash felt dizzy by just by looking at it all.

Right after the official ceremony had ended Ash immediately received an order from Rebecca.

During the school’s free time… The girls’ dormitory seemed to have established an organization named SKFC. There was a rumor that the posters, used for recruiting members, were plastered everywhere on campus.

Any absurd acts like this which were not recognized by the Student Council could not be left alone.

Ash's first errand as the Student Council’s General Affairs chief was to remove all the unauthorized posters.

The afternoon courses were going to start in thirty minutes. To make time for a precious lunch break… Ash angrily, and quickly, tore off the posters.

"You're hopeless! Who does the Student Council think they are! First of all… I’m your rightful owner. No? So who allowed you to take orders from outsiders other than me?!"

"I think you might have switched our standpoints around. I'm your owner... Anyway. Why are you here?!"

Only now, did the dense Ash, ask in amazement.

There will be classes that must be attended after the ceremony so they usually separated when leaving the the boys' dormitory. Eco was just talking in her usual tone so Ash, without any hesitation, started chatting with her.

"Where is Cosette? Didn't I remind you, that during my lesson time, you have to look for her?"

"You-u...... You still haven't figured it out yet? You really are dense to the extreme!"

Eco puffed her cheeks and turned around in front of Ash.

Her skirt flipped up in midair and revealed a pinkish white thigh.

Looking at Eco’s delicate and charming appearance Ash’s heart skip a beat. Then, he finally noticed, the difference.

Eco, not in her usual casual wear, was wearing a school uniform.

"Just a moment! Why are you wearing our school uniform?"

"Cosette knew I wanted to look around the school. So she lent it to me."

"Oh. What a nice person Cosette is… WAIT! This school is for dragon breeders! Why are you, a dragon, here?!"

"I'm just very interested and wanted to know what things you are doing in this school. Cosette told me that I won’t need to worry about being found out while I am wearing this dress."

Cosette's devilish smile vividly emerged in Ash’s mind.

“Then… When is the lesson going to begin?”

"You also intend to attend class!?"

"Hmph. I just want to attend class! And… You are not allowed to give opinions!"

"Thunk<ref>Sound of stomping.</ref>!" She stomped with a menacing manner as she straightened her chest.

"...... Alas."

It seemed that Eco had already made up her mind and nothing made her think twice.

Miserably. Ash could only continue to tear up those 'eyesore' posters.

===Part 3===

When the bell rang. Ash and Eco were still on the ground floor corridor.

“Damn! Now we need to rush to class!”

Ash ran while dragging Eco behind him.

"You shouldn't be hasty in front of a noble Dragon!"

This afternoon there was a scheduled lesson on Oracle<ref>竜媒魔法（オラクル） Orakuru, no translation for it. Literally means "Magic Dragon Medium".</ref>. This course was a compulsory subject specified by the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Dragons regularly secreted a type of crystal, with magic, called Bright Dragon Crystals<ref>竜輝華晶 Ryūki-kashō </ref>.

Through the Bright Dragon Crystal the Oracle could be activated. Nowadays it was widely used in daily life by humans who did not have magic as a source of light and heat.

"Anyway... I have not seen you secrete a Bright Dragon Crystal."

There were many breeders who brought their pal’s Bright Dragon Crystal along with them.

That was not only proof, of their good relationship with their pal, but also acted as a talisman. When they ran into a dangerous situation… It could be used as a medium to activate their oracle.

Unexpectedly. Ash, somehow, inadvertently made Eco blush.

"Tsk!... You better be careful or I will crush you! How can I casually expose such shameful things in front of others!"

Ash, for a moment, could not help but be surprised.

"Shameful? How shameful can it be?"

"Th- Those downright low things... How can I even be speaking of it!"

"Low? Bright Dragon Crystals are formed when excess magic are being crystallized. Even when seen, I think it is no big deal…!!! "

"You haven’t seen other dragons secrete their Bright Dragon Crystal before. Right?"

"Who says so!? I ''have'' seen!"

Ash calmly replied.

"What!"

Eco looked like she felt a heavy blow, just like a thunderstrike.

"How could there be such shameless dragons!"

"Anyhow. This is a Dragon Riding Academy. Those incidents are quite common."

Eco stood still in disbelief.

"What you said... Is it really the truth?"

"Mmm. It's the truth. For some dragons, as long as you ask them, they would generously secrete it for you. Or else, after the practical skill lessons, you can see that it is all over the field."

"Su- Such a thing could even be happening! The blame should be put on the stupid and ignorant humans who tame dragons. Now the moral standards of a dragon have dropped this low. This situation is really serious... We dragons have undergone degradation."

"You might have had overestimated this problem! Is it really that serious?”

“The secretion of it, from a human request, or even to secrete it anywhere... It's extremely outrageous! Although, I cannot deny, that I inevitably will run into this kind of really intolerable situation… At least carelessly become incontinent<ref>To those who don’t know it means unable to restrain natural discharge of urine or feces.</ref>..."

“Incontinent? Why do you use that word to describe it? In the end, Bright Dragon Crystals are actually... "

Ash felt a chill in his heart.

Because Eco accidentally let it slip from her mouth… Ash would have been happier had he not heard the facts that he didn't need to.

-- ''Can I calmly face Bright Dragon Crystals in the future......?''

Ash thought as he stared blankly at Eco.

Perhaps she had misunderstood. Eco angrily shouted:

"I… I will not be incontinent!"

===Part 4===

Both of them hastily rushed to the second magic lecture room only to find out that Angela-sensei had not yet arrived.

Students in the classroom were chit-chatting excitingly.

Ash had suddenly lost all his strength, but, this was a lucky outcome for both of them.

Dr. Angela Cornwell, who had the authority to research all dragons, had shown a strong interest in the young dragon Eco.

Recently Angela had made Ash and Eco suffer quite a lot.

If they were carelessly late for class... She might take the opportunity to cause them trouble and sternly order them to go directly to the dissection room.

Ash looked around intending to look for his friends.

At that moment his eyes had fallen upon Silvia.

Silvia was sitting alone beside the wall.

She was unable to make friends due to her royal family background and otherwise difficult personality.

Although she had received the warm applause from all the students at the morning ceremony, which was a rare sight, but to be able to blend into the life of other students… Things like that did not happen overnight.

Ash felt his relationship with Silvia had become closer in the last month because of various unpredictable events.

-- ''I should try to sit beside her...''

Just as Ash tried to do this brave act.

“Hei!”

Suddenly someone pulled his sleeve. He was surprised and his thoughts returned to reality.

"Eco... Is there anything?"

"That's my line! What are you doing staring blankly?"

"No- Nothing... I wasn't in a daze.”

Ash quickly removed his gaze from Silvia.

Eco immediately switched to an unhappy expression.

It's probably because she had seen his attention drawn towards Silvia just now. However. What reason was there for her to be upset?

Just when Ash was fully confused his, good-for-nothing, friend Raymond Kirkland raised his hand.

"Yo, Ash, this way!"

Raymond had occupied the seat, in the last row beside the window, which was the best place to avoid the teacher’s sight.

"Angela-sensei hasn't arrived yet."

"This period was recently changed to homeroom<ref>Typically referred to as "Study Hall".</ref>! Looks like the staff meeting for this afternoon has been extended... Well, that is not important."

For Raymond, whenever he saw beautiful girls such as Eco, he instantly had a shortness of breath.

“Eco. You came too! You were really cute at this morning’s ceremony. ……Urgh."

Having already suffered a straight punch from Eco Raymond's face looked like he was going to heave.

Ash quickly stopped her from behind.

"Hey… Hey… What are you doing? Hitting people randomly!"

"... I just don't know why? I just get mad when I see him."

In the end… Ash had to separate both of them by sitting between Raymond and Eco.

"Hey. Ash...... What’s the situation right now?"

Even after enduring an iron fist Raymond immediately sprang back to life and questioned Ash.

"Can't you see this with your own eyes? Of course she came here by force."

"She also looks nice in a uniform.... Are you really sure you don't want to have an exchange with my Brigid?"

Seeing Raymond’s perverted expression Ash could only shake his head and sigh.

"Do you want to be squashed to death by Brigid? Say… How come I don't see Max?"

Ash only then noticed that Maximillian Russell, who usually sat next to Raymond, was missing.

"Ohh. Max should be busy tearing down the posters. Right?"

“Ehh-Eh?”

Max was in charge of the accounts and a proud member of the Student Council. But to be removing illegal posters… It was fair to say that that was not a part of his job.

"You also know of his personality. Right?"

"Ha ha... It's hard not to imagine it."

Ash finally figured it out.

Max was very serious about personal hygiene. For example; When he saw someone appear even slightly messy he would very much like to clean them up. He had a personality where ‘his eyes cannot tolerate even a dust particle’ which caused others headaches. So, naturally, he had to interfere with the business of those illegal posters.

"Also, Raymond, there is something I've wanted to ask you."

"Anything?"

Ash, staring at Raymond's confused face, threw him a question that he had mulled since that morning:

"The ‘Silver Knight’. What is it, actually?"

“What? Are you kidding me?"

Raymond, suddenly raising his voice, shocked Ash.

The students nearby them gave them a curious glance.

Raymond, after an unnatural cough to clear his throat, whispered into Ash’s ear.

"You-u... The poster's have stated clearly... Didn’t they? The ‘Silver Knight’ is the hero who protected this town and prevented it from being destroyed by Necromancia’s attack. To summarize it……"

Raymond lowered his tone and said the decisive words:

"It's you!"

"Eeh…… Me!? It's me? Why?"

Ash stared dumbstruck at Raymond who had a displeased look on his face.

"Because you're the one who actually beat the Necromancia!"

"The problem is… Am I suitable a to have stylish name such as the ‘Silver Knight’? Anyway… Who is the one responsible for creating this title?!"

"This name is adapted from a novel. A shoujo novel called ''The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'', the protagonist is also known as the ‘Silver Knight’. It's really quite popular among the girls."

"Oh......"

"From the eyewitnesses' testimony, at St. Durham<ref>(聖ダーラム) Named after "Durham" which is a city in northeast England.</ref> Square, the Dragner who rode Necromancia had an Ark. His coolness seems to be identical to the ‘Silver Knight’ in the story."

“That time the armor Eco manifested was indeed is silver in color..."

"No need to worry, fortunately, the academy has suppressed this information, only a few people know that the knight was you."

Raymond strangely felt a bit jaunty.

"If the secret is exposed... I don't know what will happen."

Raymond nonchalantly replied to Ash's question.

"Perhaps you'll run into your first and at the same time your last romantic encounter. I heard that during the school holidays the SKFC members exceeded a hundred people!"

"Is it true?!"

Of which Ash could not help but shout out loud...

"What Raymond said may not be a joke!"

The owner of that voice behind Ash was Max.

Max, with his nervous appearance, was the same as always. Compared to Ash and others, who appeared to look slightly untidy even when wearing their uniforms, he always tidied himself up just like a newly-enrolled student.

Underneath Max’s armpit was a stack of posters. Judging from the thickness… There were at least one hundred.

"I can't stand this any longer. These people really know how to create trouble."

Max sighed deeply as he somehow suddenly stood between Ash and Raymond.

"However, since the SKFC has been locked on to by Rebecca, they better be careful. Things like this will soon come to an end. Right? Moreover. This type of activity is impossible to maintain after a while."

After Ash had optimistically expressed his opinion… Max immediately stared sharply at him through his glasses.

"Wh-Why are you looking at me?"

"It appears that you still don't know the situation you're in. Listen, currently, it has been confirmed that there is a large chance that the ability of being a Breeder will be passed on to the next generation. The ‘Silver Knight’ is powerful enough to defeat that Necromancia. Moreover, he is also equipped with an Ark, which also proved that he is an Ark-Dragner."

"…... So?"

Max, just like Raymond, lowered his tone.

"Just in case someone knew that you are the ‘Silver Knight’…... the SKFC will do everything in their might to win your sperm."

"Since when did I become breeding stock<ref>(種馬) ''Taneuma''. Direct translation is breeding horse but it means a breeding medium or tool.</ref>?" 

"Stay cool. The SKFC members are originally Breeders. If they bear the child of the Silver Knight, there will be a great chance that the child will become an Ark-Dragner like his father. Though because of Xenoglavia’s<ref>(ゼノグラヴィア戦争) ''Zenoguravia-sensō''. I cannot find any reference for this name do tell me if anyone knew.</ref>War, the young people who intend to become a Dragner are decreasing...... but when it comes to an Ark-Dragner it's at a whole new level."

It sounded like a joke, for others who listened in, but Max spoke with a serious expression.

"If that being the case, I'll help you no matter what the reason is. I can't stand the Ash who has luck with the girls!"

"Raymond. It seems that we need to have a talk."

"No. I agree with what Raymond is saying."

"Not you too… Max!"

"Otherwise, you don't mind the SKFC knowing your secret?"

Ash was left speechless.

"Well. I...... Of course I don’t want them to know. Becoming popular with girls, with those impure motives, is nothing to be happy about."

"Hmm. I'm not really satisfied."

Eco suddenly snappily grumbled.

"To be honest… The reason you defeated Necromancia is only because of the Ark I created? But the one in the spotlight is only the knight…… That's why I always say humans are stupid and ignorant beings!"

“What Eco said is absolutely right."

Just when they were busy chit chatting with Max……

"Sorry for my interruption my fellow students!"

The classroom door suddenly opened with a "Bang!" A group of girls, dressed in the academy's uniforms, started to fill the classroom.

Their sudden entrance left the students speechless. Everyone’s attention was focused on the suspicious group.

There were a total of about twenty people.

The suspected leader of the group of girls stepped up to the lectern and her eyes swept over the classroom.

Ash couldn’t help but stare at her.

The girl’s posture had a temperament of nobility in it.

Her orange-yellow elegant curly hair rested in front of her chest. Her slender eyes emitted rays of sparks as if an emerging raging fire.

"I'm the President of the SKFC, Jessica Valentine!"

Having just announced her name… Jessica surveyed at the students around her with an elegant aura.

"Those, who have seen our posters, I think you already know of our aim. Right? That's right; We're looking for ‘Silver Knight’-sama. That day, during the Necromancia’s attack, being the school’s off days, we deduced that there should be a lot of students who happened to be wandering by St. Durham Square… The combat scene. Now, in this classroom, there may have been one or two witnesses……"

"Don’t you think you're asking too much?"

Silvia interrupted Jessica’s speech with a courageous and serious voice.

"Oh my, I wondered who it might be, and it turned out to be Oujo-sama<ref>(王女) ''Ōjo'', "Princess".</ref>."

Jessica's response made Silvia’s face turn black.

"I'm not speaking to you as the Princess. This is the Student Council’s disciplinary affairs member who is now giving you a warning! Do you not realize that you are destroying the school's discipline?!!!"

"Ha! Since you're not talking to me as a Princess then I won’t be branded as disrespectful when I argue with you. Right?

Jessica's decision that she did not intend to make any concessions surprised others.

"Do you think your behavior is acceptable?"

"The school’s discipline compared to my own ‘desire’ is simply nothing!"

"Well, if that's the case, might you speak out your ambition? I'm all ears."

Jessica immediately raised her head and announced as though she had already prepared for this:

"I want to give birth to ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s children!"

An awkward silence suddenly enveloped the entire classroom.

Obviously everyone was feeling a little disgusted with her direct declaration.

Even Silvia was stunned speechless.

A low profile student who was one of the followers finally broke the silence.

"President! Your speech violated club regulation article one hundred and twenty-seven!"

"Hmm…... As expected of Vice-President Lynette-san. Good job noticing. Please allow me to withdraw my previous declaration."

“Withdrawal of declaration has been confirmed!"

After he had listened to Jessica and Lynette, who spoke annoyingly rhythmically, Ash muttered:

"Th-That rumor......"

Raymond tried to pacify his concern for Ash:

"Carelessly resisting is suicidal… Ash. I heard that the Valentine Family is a traditional noble family."

Facing Raymond’s smile. Eco started to speak out loud:

"Oh. I really can’t stand those people any longer. The true face behind 'Silver Knight' is……"

"W- Wa- Wait! Eco!"

Ash quickly covered her mouth from behind.

"Mmm -!"

Eco struggled with all her limbs. In the eyes of others it looked like Ash was, hugging her from behind, not wanting to let go. Her body's tenderness and lovely feel made Ash blush, but, still, he must not let go.

Was it rare that the school was helping me to control the information? If my identity were revealed, in a place like this, all their hard work would go to waste.

"Back to the topic, Princess Silvia, it is true that we are making a list of people who were present at the incident."

"So……?"

"Princess. Your name is also on top of our list. Maybe you already know the true identity of ‘Silver Knight’-sama. Am I right?"

“Y-You. What are you talking about?!"

It seemed that the straightforward character of Silvia was not good at lying.

Silvia was obviously shaken when Jessica hit the bull’s eye.

It was a lie if she said she didn’t know, because at that time the one riding with her on Lancelot was actually the ‘Silver Knight’.

"Hey…... Ash? It seems the situation has gotten worse."

Ash had already stood up and was coming to Silvia’s rescue when Raymond warned him.

"Miss. I’m sorry, but currently, its still school hours."

The crowd’s attention immediately turned to Ash.

Silvia also looked at Ash with a surprised expression. Perhaps this was an illusion but it seemed that she had breathed a sigh of relief.

"Hey. I remember that you are the Student Council’s……"

Ash mercilessly interrupted Jessica.

"Can you please leave the classroom immediately? Don't interrupt us in our lesson time."

The classroom fell silent.

Ash's determination caused the entire student body to gasp.

Unexpectedly. Jessica didn’t back down.

On the contrary. She was also smiling.

Compared with an undisguised expression that kind of smile was even scarier.

"Your name is Ash. Right? A guy with no obvious achievements but still allowed to join the Student Council…... Hey. Vice-President Lynette? His name is on the list of people who were at St. Durham Square. Isn’t it?"

Lynette, as though she had memorized the whole list, answered immediately without any hesitation:

"......Ash Blake, advanced course first year. Someone actually confirmed that he showed up near St. Durham Square!"

After hearing Lynette’s report, Ash broke out in a cold sweat.

"Speaking of this, people call you 'The Boy who can Ride any Dragon'. Could it be….... that you had possibly managed to ride the Necromancia?”

"……!"

A sudden hit at the bull’s eye left Ash speechless.

"It's just that ‘Silver Knight’-sama is a noble Ark-Dragner, and you…... Are nothing but simply a Breeder who is a nobody. People like you simply cannot be compared to ‘Silver Knight’-sama! Oh Hohoho!"

Fortunately Jessica just laughed at that thought. She would never have suspected she was at the cusp of the truth.

"Not to mention your Pal ...... hee hee, it's funny just by thinking at it. She turned out to be a child. Even this morning's ceremony had a really fantastic finish."

"Wh-What did you say……!"

Upon hearing this Eco naturally became angry and tried to stand up to refute but……

"You!!! Don’t interrupt."

Ash immediately reached out and stopped her.

"Who do you think you are......"

Although she felt reluctant. Eco shut her mouth.

All the SKFC members were trembling under the pressure of Ash’s aura.

Although Ash was now a member of the Student Council… In the past he was none other than the infamous 'Number One Problem Child’.

And it was not a name given for nothing.

Jessica was also no different; She was the only one who was showing no sign of fear.

"Ash. Stay calm! She's a noble!"

Raymond gave a out loud warning but Ash could not bothered by it.

"What is a noble to me when I even challenged a Princess!!!!!!"

"Ahh... You're right. I had totally forgotten all about it..."

Raymond looked into the distance with a crestfallen expression.

"How dare you insult my Pal...? What is the meaning of this? If you want to apologize… It's better that you do it right now!"

"Hah<ref>An insulting sound.</ref>! You are but a commoner and you dare to order ''me'' around!"

Ash and Jessica.

Each refused to back down and stared intently at each other.

Just when the tension reached its climax……

The classroom door was suddenly slammed open.

"So…... I see that you have been wandering around here. Jessica."

All the people in the classroom were attracted to the overwhelming presence everybody remained silent.

The one and only exception was Jessica.

“Rebecca! Y- Y…… You stay out of my way! "

Jessica unexpectedly kept her composure even when the opponent was Rebecca.

"He-Hey, that girl called Jessica... She really has some nerve? She actually dared to address Rebecca by her first name."

Raymond, opposite of the speechless Ash, calmly pulled out his notepad and made a quick flip.

"According to my information network…... Both of them seem to be childhood friends who grew up in the same hometown."

"You're still the same. Never missing out on any girl's information."

"Hmm…... You're wrong, Ash, it's limited to 'cute girls' only, okay?"

Raymond laughed proudly at his own work while Rebecca and Jessica's argument still continued.

"I would like to throw the question back to you, Rebecca, why are you here, now, at 'this place'?"

"I came here to find the members of the Student Council…... It seems that you still continue with the same stupidity. Jessica."

"You've come at just the right time! Everyone listen carefully!!! We have confirmation the Student Council is controlling the information of the St. Durham Square attacks! The Student Council went to all that trouble to cover up what? Does it imply that the Student Council has known ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s identity from the very beginning?"

"Even if it is the truth I am not obligated to tell you at all. I suggest you remember your duty as a student?"

"I have no intention of disturbing the class. I just simply urge everyone here to help us collect ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s information!"

"You're still the same. Full of nonsensical reasoning......"

"I, the representative of the SKFC, request the Student Council to reveal that information to the public!"

After Jessica’s tenacious declaration. Rebecca gave a frightening expression.

"......In the beginning I didn’t want to cause you trouble, because you are my childhood friend, but it seems that I need to deal with this another way."

Under the gaze of her fierce-looking eyes Jessica felt that she was going to surrender and back off.

In the eyes of Ash, it seemed that, Rebecca’s back was full of red glowing aura.

"Wha-What…... the Student Council President even tried to use force to solve problems……"

Jessica could not help but shrink and take a few steps backwards.

"Too bad. To think that I even bothered to treat you nicely."

Rebecca, with a graceful smile, whispered into the ears of Jessica.

"Yikes!"

Jessica immediately started sweating and her back unnaturally bent.

Jessica headed down and rushed out of the classroom. The Vice-President, Lynette, and the other SKFC members quickly followed.

"Right. Silvia of Disciplinary Affairs, Accounts<ref>The original can mean treasurer and accounts but still I think CFO is better :).</ref> Max, and Ash of General Affairs. The three people mentioned please report to the Student Council’s office immediately. An emergency meeting is to be held. That is all."

Rebecca left after she had informed the others.

"An emergency meeting... Is something wrong?"

Ash asked, but Max was equally confused.

"The President came personally to inform you, but she also chose to do it during lesson time...... certainly it is no simple matter."

Seated, between Ash and Max, Raymond gave a rare worrisome look and murmured and grumbled.

"I’m so lonely. I didn't expect that even Ash would join the Student Council…... Damn. Why am I the only one left out?"

"Raymond ......"

"Fortunately, I still have Eco! Hey Eco, why don’t the two of us go have a cup of tea……? Urgh!"

With her superhuman strength, and her iron fist, she knocked Raymond away.

"You shut up! Obviously I'm a member of the Student Council…... The woman dared to not mention my name and choose to ignore a noble Dragon? I will not forgive her!"

After Ash glanced at Raymond who was stuck on the wall, he spoke a few words to calm Eco down:

"You are their 'mascot'. So you don't have to attend any meetings."

"Nothing to do with me?! Since you all wounded the pride of a Dragon… I will attend no matter what!" Eco cried.

===Part 5===

The Student Council office was located at the top of the school premises in the central tower.

Ash, Silvia, Max, and Eco were all walking towards the Student Council office.

Max who walked at a quick pace lead the way while the trio of Silvia, Ash and Eco walked together.

The formation was purely coincidental, but sandwiched in between Eco and Silvia, Ash didn't need any more reason to feel nervous.

"Why are we not there yet......?" Ash even had such thoughts.

Since it was still class time there were no other students in the corridor.

But since the staff meeting had yet to end, every classroom had changed into homeroom.

Even though the students of Ansarivan were possessed of high self-imposed standards , homeroom was still inevitably noisy, even the corridors were full of the sounds of laughter.

"By the way. There are two members we haven’t met yet."

While climbing stairs. Ash asked while facing Max’s back.

"Ahh…… The vice president and the secretary? I think both of them will not be attending this meeting."

After hearing Max’s answer, Silvia responded to it.

“I cannot turn a deaf ear in this case. Do both of them have any consciousness of being in the student council? Any jobs related to the social welfare of people need to be completed with full effort…… These are the family rules of the Lautreamont family!!!! Who do the vice president and the secretary think they are? "

“Plea- Please allow your humble servant to explain to thee...... Ahem! "<ref>This whole sentence is spoken in polite form.</ref>

Max who was not used to being with Silvia spoke in the polite form so that’s why he couldn't help but give an unnatural cough.

Max found out that conversation using the polite form didn't seem natural even though he was addressing the princess, after all both of them were members of the student council, and they were students of the same grade.

"The vice president is famous, as one who only knows how to fool around, but that person's ability as a Dragner is obvious to all. That’s why the president will turn a blind eye. It is understandable."

Sure enough. Silvia was dissatisfied.

"How come there is such lax and insolent person! Since that person has an ability that the president acknowledges, but why is the vice president fooling around?"

"OK, OK, in this case since the president has acquiesced to it, complaining to Max will be useless."

Ash gently calmed Silvia down, but on the other hand he also agreed with her point of view.

"What kind of person is the secretary?"

Right after Ash asked Max answer with a mumbling tone.

"The secretary, in short, is no ordinary pushover. Anyway. You will meet sooner or later."

Speaking of which. They had arrived at the Student Council’s office. The topic regarding the vice president and the secretary came to a stop.

===Part 6===

"So let us begin our meeting."

Rebecca with her opening remark started the emergency meeting.

Ash was initially nervous, fearing that Rebecca would be unhappy with Eco who came without being invited, but in the end Rebecca didn't do or complain about anything.

Looking around, as Max had said, the vice president and the secretary seats were empty. So the secretary’s work was handed over to Max.

Although Ash was curious, about the vice president and secretary, in the end it was clearly not the right time to ask such questions.

The staff meeting had been extended and all classes were changed into homeroom, in this situation, it was not hard to figure out that something important had happened.

It seemed that it was really related to the attacks of the Necromancia?

Although he wasn't willing to make any assumption...... But this still did not rule out the occurrence of more serious incidents.

"I believe everyone had also heard about the rumor……"

The members present held their breath to listen to Rebecca's announcement.

"Recently, with the girl’s dormitory as their base, the organization named SKFC is highly active in the shadows."

"I beg your pardon?"

An unexpected answer caused Ash to almost fall off his chair. At first he wondered what emergency or urgent event it was but he didn't think for one moment that it would be the SKFC……

While observing the other people's reactions Silvia and Eco looked on blankly. Max alone seemed to have become accustomed to it while Rebecca continued with her speech.

"What is the problem?"

Under Rebecca's glare Ash hurriedly corrected his sitting posture.

"Uh…... Because you said it was an emergency meeting… I thought it would be a more intractable problem."

"Take it easy, we are not at the main topic yet. SKFC is just a side problem to be discussed."

"I see…..."

Ash nodded to indicate his understanding. At this time Silvia suddenly raised her hand.

"What is the problem. Silvia?"

"I have something that I don’t understand. When president sent Jessica Valentine running off…..."

"Oh. I'd like to hear too."

Ash echoed Silvia’s question.

Rebecca took only a few words to send off that arrogant Jessica which made everyone curious what she whispered into Jessica’s ears.

“Oh, that thing."

Rebecca shrugged with a wry smile.

"As you know. She and I are childhood playmates. No. It wouldn't be an exaggeration if I say we are family. Since childhood she sees me as her rival…... In short; She hates to admit defeat."

"Just like family......? I have heard of the Valentines being a traditional noble family."

After Ash stated the information acquired from Raymond Rebecca could not help but burst out laughing.

"Oh... This is really an interesting rumor. Their family has been serving the family of Randall as house maids for generations. Just like the house of Shirley who serves the royal family of the Paladin<ref>Paladin; The king of Lautreamont knight country and also the highest class of all Dragner still the interesting thing is that the current king is not even a breeder.</ref>." Rebecca, with her eyes staring into a distance, murmured.

"That girl...... A maid?"

Jessica's glamorous figure and the word maid could not completely be combined. Ash was shocked.

"So. I threatened her…… If you continue to stir up trouble… Do not blame me if I announce the Valentine family’s background to the public."

From the look in her eyes it was like she was lecturing her useless little sister.

"But why did she lie that the Valentine family is of nobility?"

Silvia seemed completely unable to understand Jessica’s thinking.

"Jessica from time to time likes to daydream, she had a particular strong sense for nobility, and now she even seriously believes her family is from a royal linage...... you just need to take it as a disease that can be commonly seen in the adolescence years."<ref>Referring to [http://animanga.wikia.com/wiki/Chuunibyou 中二病/ちゅうにびょう/Chuunibyou]</ref>

"So that is how it is......"

With the misunderstanding cleared up Ash felt relieved.

At the same time after learning that the Valentine’s were maids, Ash subconsciously began to imagine Jessica wearing a maid costume.

That insufferably arrogant girl, with a feel of nobility, when put in maid attire to serve her master, somehow… It doesn't feel bad…… Ash cannot help but fantasizing Jessica’s graceful appearance.

"Hey…... What are you thinking?"

When he returned back to consciousness… He felt a painful sting on side of his cheek.

Eco, somewhat forcefully, had slapped Ash’s face.

"No, nothing, I am not thinking of anything…..."

Ash face is full of embarrassment.

"Are you're thinking of some improper image?"

"Urgh. I am also thinking the same thing."

Even Silvia, also supporting the views of Eco, questioned Ash.

"I think there is an eighty percent chance that he most likely imagined Jessica wearing a maid attire."

After Rebecca's cheeky outspokenness of her own views… Ash suddenly turned pale.

"Ho-How do you know?"

"Oh. I managed to guess it? I am just speaking from my woman's intuition…"

Rebecca seems happily laughing.

Ash feels a murderous intend behind and quickly turns around to look back.

"Have you forgotten that I am rearing you……? And yet you still dare to have fantasies of those females...... You cannot be forgiven! Don’t you think you lack self-consciousness?"

Eco’s fist is shaking.

"How dare you have any perverted thoughts of other students attending the same school…... How shameless! All enemies of women must taste the iron hammer of death!"

Silvia was flushed with anger.

"Wa-Wait! It is just that I was distracted for a moment! Besides. Why do you need to be angry with me because of these things?"

"I'm gonna trample you!"

"The inviolable family rules!"

Eco's kick and Silvia's punch hit Ash at the same time.

“……”

After Ash stumbled back to his seat, the meeting continued to proceed as usual, like nothing had happened.

“President…... I would like to ask. "

Silvia asked.

"What is the problem. Silvia?"

"Just now you say that Jessica has taken you as her rival...... Is her ability that amazing? Jessica Valentine this is the first time I heard her name…..."

Silvia has a good reason to doubt.

Rebecca is not just only an Ark Dragner but also the president of the school’s student council.

She is undoubtedly the strongest Dragner in the whole Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Even the Professors or the practical skill instructors can only admit defeat when it comes to Rebecca.

To take Rebecca as her rival. No matter how you think of it, it is not normal.

"Jessica ...... In fact, is very motivated for her own self improvement, but she is always futile or she is very persistent in doing things that are meaningless. I cannot deny that she is one of those ‘who are able to overcome all kinds of hardships if you just put in effort' ...... "

To be able to be praised by Rebecca, regardless of her written performance<ref>Could probably mean test results.</ref>, maybe she is someone who really has some skill.

"In conclusion. The SKFC, that Jessica leads, wants to expose the true identity of the 'Silver Knight'. If their objective was only this we can leave them be. But what they desire is not just this, when given the opportunity, they would like to obtain the sperm of the ‘Silver Knight’."

"Spe-Spe……!"

Silvia suddenly blushed. Her movement become very unnatural. Seeing her being so shy, Ash also cannot help but feel embarrassed.

"What is it that they want? Is it delicious?"

Unlike Silvia. Eco was only confused.

"Nothing. You need not know such a thing." Ash said.

"Even you know. As your owner is it not logical that I don't know!"

"What sort of reasoning is that?!!!!"

"Hmph, even if you do not want to tell me, I still have the dragweiss!"

Eco, like entering a trance, suddenly closes her eyes.

For dragons, that have a longer history than humans, she can search for information dating back centuries.

"Wha ... What!"

After just a few seconds… Eco’s whole face is blushing as if she was on flame.

At the same time she turned very angry.

"Are you kidding!? Ther-There are actually such a large number of female animals trying to access…... this guy’s…... Spe-Spe......? That’s why I said… Humans are stupid and ignorant fools!"

Eco seems to be ashamed and embarrassed to speak out that word. It is rare that Eco is blushing exactly like Silvia.

"Hmph…... it seems that the word 'obscene' needed to be added at the back of 'stupid and ignorant'.
"This human sounds really nasty!"

"Stupid, ignorant and obscene humans!"

"You do not need to repeat! It is hard to pronounce!"

"Then you should kneel down and apologize. I will remove the word 'obscene'. I’ll let you represent all mankind. This opportunity is not easy to get you know!?"

[[Image: Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p064.jpg |thumb]]
"I will not represent this!"

Ash angrily complained as Rebecca interrupted by coughing loudly with "Ahem".

Suddenly, back to reality, cold sweats emerge from Ash.

Disregarding the meeting, Ash and Eco, both of them are arguing.

"So-sorry ...... Hey you come and sit down."

"Hmph. Don’t you order me......!"

Eco wanted to sternly reject but halfway she closed her mouth. While staring at Rebecca's face… Her expression was like she had seen on wild bears in the forest.

Following Eco Ash's sight drifted towards Rebecca. Facing her. Ash felt the same chill in his spine.

"Are you satisfied?"

Even while Rebecca was smiling… Her eyes definitely are not smiling in the slightest.

"I- I understand ......"

Eco is reluctant to sit down on her seat. Perhaps her animal instinct makes her detect Rebecca unfathomable terror.

"Back to the main point, about SKFC, in all cases, we will be focusing and paying more attention to prevent them from finding out the identity of the ‘Silver Knight’."

Under Rebecca’s glare everyone nodded.

"But fortunately they thought ‘Silver Knight’ is an Ark Dragner, which Eco needs to be thanked for in making the Ark. So SKFC should be less likely to target Ash who has not become a Dragner. Even I, until now, failed to fully understand how Eco managed that."

"Hmmm. Manage? It is good that you understand how great that is!"

As her previous fear disappeared Eco starts to act arrogant again.

"In short, Jessica is not a person who will easily give up, so you should be careful in this case. Anyway, the secret of the Valentine family, please do not expose it. After all that’s been her secret since her enrolment to this academy. It will be harsh on her if it is exposed…… Now back to the ‘main’ topic."

Rebecca places her elbows on the table with her fingers overlapping. Then she gently lift up her beautiful chin.

Ash notices that Rebecca is worrying about something.

How tough is the problem that Rebecca is facing now?

"The fact is…... I have received a message….. The first princess of Lautreamont, Veronica Lautreamont, will come to Ansarivan to visit for a week."

After they heard this news, everyone knew the seriousness of this situation, suddenly they all turn solemn and silent, but right at the next second……

"Noooooo…….!"

The Silvia is moaning abnormally.

"Anything. Silvia?"

Rebecca is concerned about her but Silvia did not answer.

"An-Anee-ue sh-she’s...... A tyrant...... "

The change in Silvia startled the others.

"Is she really coming to Ansarivan?"

Silvia is trembling and turns pale as if the end of the world is coming. She huddles up and hides under the table. She is shaking with her hands protecting her head.

The usual Silvia who is always energetic in reality has a timid side – Even when Ash had already knew this fact it is still hard to imagine that Silvia would act like this.

"Are you alright? Princess."

When looking under the table, at the same time, Ash remembers the nick name of the first princess Veronica Lautreamont…...

She is called the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’.

"The Legend of Silver Knight ~A.S.B.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1

2014-02-09T01:42:48Z

Aoi uchuu: Phrases, words and grammar.

==Chapter 1 - Silver Knight==
=== Part 1 ===

Have you heard of it before?

Recently. A hero succeeded in preventing the monster called Necromancia from destroying the city of Ansarivan. According to witnesses, the hero seemed to be dressed in a silver-colored Ark<ref>聖騎甲（アーク） Āku, lit. "Holy Rider Armor") - An unique set of armor Ark-Dragners receive from their Maestro.</ref>.

If not for the hero… The city probably would have already been in ruins. The worst possible situation is maybe the whole district… Err no. It would have not been surprising if the whole Ansarivan city were razed to the ground.

However, so far, no one there knows the hero’s true identity.

As he was dressed in an Ark. So he must have been an Ark-Dragner.

His purpose was not to show off his skills and he did not ask for anything as a reward.

Ahh!!! He is such an honorable and noble person! The Knight of all Knights can’t be anyone apart from him!

So let's call him 'Silver Knight'.

From here on… We gradually announce the establishment of the SKFC (Sliver Knight Fan Club)!

Anyone interested in becoming a member will be welcomed!

SKFC President Jessica Valentine (Advanced Course first year).

===Part 2===

"... So this is your first errand?"

Ash felt Eco looking at him from behind. So he turned around and nodded in response.

"Yeah. Since I’m in charge of General Affairs."

There is a big bulletin board facing the staff room on the ground floor corridor of the campus. The surface of the board was completely disorganized and there were also some unauthorized posters. Ash felt dizzy by just by looking at it all.

Right after the official ceremony had ended Ash immediately received an order from Rebecca.

During the school’s free time… The girls’ dormitory seemed to have established an organization named SKFC. There was a rumor that the posters, used for recruiting members, were plastered everywhere on campus.

Any absurd acts like this which were not recognized by the Student Council could not be left alone.

Ash's first errand as the Student Council’s General Affairs chief was to remove all the unauthorized posters.

The afternoon courses were going to start in thirty minutes. To make time for a precious lunch break… Ash angrily, and quickly, tore off the posters.

"You're hopeless! Who does the Student Council think they are! First of all… I’m your rightful owner. No? So who allowed you to take orders from outsiders other than me?!"

"I think you might have switched our standpoints around. I'm your owner... Anyway. Why are you here?!"

Only now, did the dense Ash, ask in amazement.

There will be classes that must be attended after the ceremony so they usually separated when leaving the the boys' dormitory. Eco was just talking in her usual tone so Ash, without any hesitation, started chatting with her.

"Where is Cosette? Didn't I remind you, that during my lesson time, you have to look for her?"

"You-u...... You still haven't figured it out yet? You really are dense to the extreme!"

Eco puffed her cheeks and turned around in front of Ash.

Her skirt flipped up in midair and revealed a pinkish white thigh.

Looking at Eco’s delicate and charming appearance Ash’s heart skip a beat. Then, he finally noticed, the difference.

Eco, not in her usual casual wear, was wearing a school uniform.

"Just a moment! Why are you wearing our school uniform?"

"Cosette knew I wanted to look around the school. So she lent it to me."

"Oh. What a nice person Cosette is… WAIT! This school is for dragon breeders! Why are you, a dragon, here?!"

"I'm just very interested and wanted to know what things you are doing in this school. Cosette told me that I won’t need to worry about being found out while I am wearing this dress."

Cosette's devilish smile vividly emerged in Ash’s mind.

“Then… When is the lesson going to begin?”

"You also intend to attend class!?"

"Hmph. I just want to attend class! And… You are not allowed to give opinions!"

"Thunk<ref>Sound of stomping.</ref>!" She stomped with a menacing manner as she straightened her chest.

"...... Alas."

It seemed that Eco had already made up her mind and nothing made her think twice.

Miserably. Ash could only continue to tear up those 'eyesore' posters.

===Part 3===

When the bell rang. Ash and Eco were still on the ground floor corridor.

“Damn! Now we need to rush to class!”

Ash ran while dragging Eco behind him.

"You shouldn't be hasty in front of a noble Dragon!"

This afternoon there was a scheduled lesson on Oracle<ref>竜媒魔法（オラクル） Orakuru, no translation for it. Literally means "Magic Dragon Medium".</ref>. This course was a compulsory subject specified by the Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Dragons regularly secreted a type of crystal, with magic, called Bright Dragon Crystals<ref>竜輝華晶 Ryūki-kashō </ref>.

Through the Bright Dragon Crystal the Oracle could be activated. Nowadays it was widely used in daily life by humans who did not have magic as a source of light and heat.

"Anyway... I have not seen you secrete a Bright Dragon Crystal."

There were many breeders who brought their pal’s Bright Dragon Crystal along with them.

That was not only proof, of their good relationship with their pal, but also acted as a talisman. When they ran into a dangerous situation… It could be used as a medium to activate their oracle.

Unexpectedly. Ash, somehow, inadvertently made Eco blush.

"Tsk!... You better be careful or I will crush you! How can I casually expose such shameful things in front of others!"

Ash, for a moment, could not help but be surprised.

"Shameful? How shameful can it be?"

"Th- Those downright low things... How can I even be speaking of it!"

"Low? Bright Dragon Crystals are formed when excess magic are being crystallized. Even when seen, I think it is no big deal…!!! "

"You haven’t seen other dragons secrete their Bright Dragon Crystal before. Right?"

"Who says so!? I ''have'' seen!"

Ash calmly replied.

"What!"

Eco looked like she felt a heavy blow, just like a thunderstrike.

"How could there be such shameless dragons!"

"Anyhow. This is a Dragon Riding Academy. Those incidents are quite common."

Eco stood still in disbelief.

"What you said... Is it really the truth?"

"Mmm. It's the truth. For some dragons, as long as you ask them, they would generously secrete it for you. Or else, after the practical skill lessons, you can see that it is all over the field."

"Su- Such a thing could even be happening! The blame should be put on the stupid and ignorant humans who tame dragons. Now the moral standards of a dragon have dropped this low. This situation is really serious... We dragons have undergone degradation."

"You might have had overestimated this problem! Is it really that serious?”

“The secretion of it, from a human request, or even to secrete it anywhere... It's extremely outrageous! Although, I cannot deny, that I inevitably will run into this kind of really intolerable situation… At least carelessly become incontinent<ref>To those who don’t know it means unable to restrain natural discharge of urine or feces.</ref>..."

“Incontinent? Why do you use that word to describe it? In the end, Bright Dragon Crystals are actually... "

Ash felt a chill in his heart.

Because Eco accidentally let it slip from her mouth… Ash would have been happier had he not heard the facts that he didn't need to.

-- ''Can I calmly face Bright Dragon Crystals in the future......?''

Ash thought as he stared blankly at Eco.

Perhaps she had misunderstood. Eco angrily shouted:

"I… I will not be incontinent!"

===Part 4===

Both of them hastily rushed to the second magic lecture room only to find out that Angela-sensei had not yet arrived.

Students in the classroom were chit-chatting excitingly.

Ash had suddenly lost all his strength, but, this was a lucky outcome for both of them.

Dr. Angela Cornwell, who had the authority to research all dragons, had shown a strong interest in the young dragon Eco.

Recently Angela had made Ash and Eco suffer quite a lot.

If they were carelessly late for class... She might take the opportunity to cause them trouble and sternly order them to go directly to the dissection room.

Ash looked around intending to look for his friends.

At that moment his eyes had fallen upon Silvia.

Silvia was sitting alone beside the wall.

She was unable to make friends due to her royal family background and otherwise difficult personality.

Although she had received the warm applause from all the students at the morning ceremony, which was a rare sight, but to be able to blend into the life of other students… Things like that did not happen overnight.

Ash felt his relationship with Silvia had become closer in the last month because of various unpredictable events.

-- ''I should try to sit beside her...''

Just as Ash tried to do this brave act.

“Hei!”

Suddenly someone pulled his sleeve. He was surprised and his thoughts returned to reality.

"Eco... Is there anything?"

"That's my line! What are you doing staring blankly?"

"No- Nothing... I wasn't in a daze.”

Ash quickly removed his gaze from Silvia.

Eco immediately switched to an unhappy expression.

It's probably because she had seen his attention drawn towards Silvia just now. However. What reason was there for her to be upset?

Just when Ash was fully confused his, good-for-nothing, friend Raymond Kirkland raised his hand.

"Yo, Ash, this way!"

Raymond had occupied the seat, in the last row beside the window, which was the best place to avoid the teacher’s sight.

"Angela-sensei hasn't arrived yet."

"This period was recently changed to homeroom<ref>Typically reffered to as "Study Hall".</ref>! Looks like the staff meeting for this afternoon has been extended... Well, that is not important."

For Raymond, whenever he saw beautiful girls such as Eco, he instantly had a shortness of breath.

“Eco. You came too! You were really cute at this morning’s ceremony. ……Urgh."

Having already suffered a straight punch from Eco Raymond's face looked like he was going to heave.

Ash quickly stopped her from behind.

"Hey… Hey… What are you doing? Hitting people randomly!"

"... I just don't know why? I just get mad when I see him."

In the end… Ash had to separate both of them by sitting between Raymond and Eco.

"Hey. Ash...... What’s the situation right now?"

Even after enduring an iron fist Raymond immediately sprang back to life and questioned Ash.

"Can't you see this with your own eyes? Of course she came here by force."

"She also looks nice in a uniform.... Are you really sure you don't want to have an exchange with my Brigid?"

Seeing Raymond’s perverted expression Ash could only shake his head and sigh.

"Do you want to be squashed to death by Brigid? Say… How come I don't see Max?"

Ash only then noticed that Maximillian Russell, who usually sat next to Raymond, was missing.

"Ohh. Max should be busy tearing down the posters. Right?"

“Ehh-Eh?”

Max was in charge of the accounts and a proud member of the Student Council. But to be removing illegal posters… It was fair to say that that was not a part of his job.

"You also know of his personality. Right?"

"Ha ha... It's hard not to imagine it."

Ash finally figured it out.

Max was very serious about personal hygiene. For example; When he saw someone appear even slightly messy he would very much like to clean them up. He had a personality where ‘his eyes cannot tolerate even a dust particle’ which caused others headaches. So, naturally, he had to interfere with the business of those illegal posters.

"Also, Raymond, there is something I've wanted to ask you."

"Anything?"

Ash, staring at Raymond's confused face, threw him a question that he had mulled since that morning:

"The ‘Silver Knight’. What is it, actually?"

“What? Are you kidding me?"

Raymond, suddenly raising his voice, shocked Ash.

The students nearby them gave them a curious glance.

Raymond, after an unnatural cough to clear his throat, whispered into Ash’s ear.

"You-u... The poster's have stated clearly... Didn’t they? The ‘Silver Knight’ is the hero who protected this town and prevented it from being destroyed by Necromancia’s attack. To summarize it……"

Raymond lowered his tone and said the decisive words:

"It's you!"

"Eeh…… Me!? It's me? Why?"

Ash stared dumbstruck at Raymond who had a displeased look on his face.

"Because you're the one who actually beat the Necromancia!"

"The problem is… Am I suitable a to have stylish name such as the ‘Silver Knight’? Anyway… Who is the one responsible for creating this title?!"

"This name is adapted from a novel. A shoujo novel called ''The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'', the protagonist is also known as the ‘Silver Knight’. It's really quite popular among the girls."

"Oh......"

"From the eyewitnesses' testimony, at St. Durham<ref>(聖ダーラム) Named after "Durham" which is a city in northeast England.</ref> Square, the Dragner who rode Necromancia had an Ark. His coolness seems to be identical to the ‘Silver Knight’ in the story."

“That time the armor Eco manifested was indeed is silver in color..."

"No need to worry, fortunately, the academy has suppressed this information, only a few people know that the knight was you."

Raymond strangely felt a bit jaunty.

"If the secret is exposed... I don't know what will happen."

Raymond nonchalantly replied to Ash's question.

"Perhaps you'll run into your first and at the same time your last romantic encounter. I heard that during the school holidays the SKFC members exceeded a hundred people!"

"Is it true?!"

Of which Ash could not help but shout out loud...

"What Raymond said may not be a joke!"

The owner of that voice behind Ash was Max.

Max, with his nervous appearance, was the same as always. Compared to Ash and others, who appeared to look slightly untidy even when wearing their uniforms, he always tidied himself up just like a newly-enrolled student.

Underneath Max’s armpit was a stack of posters. Judging from the thickness… There were at least one hundred.

"I can't stand this any longer. These people really know how to create trouble."

Max sighed deeply as he somehow suddenly stood between Ash and Raymond.

"However, since the SKFC has been locked on to by Rebecca, they better be careful. Things like this will soon come to an end. Right? Moreover. This type of activity is impossible to maintain after a while."

After Ash had optimistically expressed his opinion… Max immediately stared sharply at him through his glasses.

"Wh-Why are you looking at me?"

"It appears that you still don't know the situation you're in. Listen, currently, it has been confirmed that there is a large chance that the ability of being a Breeder will be passed on to the next generation. The ‘Silver Knight’ is powerful enough to defeat that Necromancia. Moreover, he is also equipped with an Ark, which also proved that he is an Ark-Dragner."

"…... So?"

Max, just like Raymond, lowered his tone.

"Just in case someone knew that you are the ‘Silver Knight’…... the SKFC will do everything in their might to win your sperm."

"Since when did I become breeding stock<ref>(種馬) ''Taneuma''. Direct translation is breeding horse but it means a breeding medium or tool.</ref>?" 

"Stay cool. The SKFC members are originally Breeders. If they bear the child of the Silver Knight, there will be a great chance that the child will become an Ark-Dragner like his father. Though because of Xenoglavia’s<ref>(ゼノグラヴィア戦争) ''Zenoguravia-sensō''. I cannot find any reference for this name do tell me if anyone knew.</ref>War, the young people who intend to become a Dragner are decreasing...... but when it comes to an Ark-Dragner it's at a whole new level."

It sounded like a joke, for others who listened in, but Max spoke with a serious expression.

"If that being the case, I'll help you no matter what the reason is. I can't stand the Ash who has luck with the girls!"

"Raymond. It seems that we need to have a talk."

"No. I agree with what Raymond is saying."

"Not you too… Max!"

"Otherwise, you don't mind the SKFC knowing your secret?"

Ash was left speechless.

"Well. I...... Of course I don’t want them to know. Becoming popular with girls, with those impure motives, is nothing to be happy about."

"Hmm. I'm not really satisfied."

Eco suddenly snappily grumbled.

"To be honest… The reason you defeated Necromancia is only because of the Ark I created? But the one in the spotlight is only the knight…… That's why I always say humans are stupid and ignorant beings!"

“What Eco said is absolutely right."

Just when they were busy chit chatting with Max……

"Sorry for my interruption my fellow students!"

The classroom door suddenly opened with a "Bang!" A group of girls, dressed in the academy's uniforms, started to fill the classroom.

Their sudden entrance left the students speechless. Everyone’s attention was focused on the suspicious group.

There were a total of about twenty people.

The suspected leader of the group of girls stepped up to the lectern and her eyes swept over the classroom.

Ash couldn’t help but stare at her.

The girl’s posture had a temperament of nobility in it.

Her orange-yellow elegant curly hair rested in front of her chest. Her slender eyes emitted rays of sparks as if an emerging raging fire.

"I'm the President of the SKFC, Jessica Valentine!"

Having just announced her name… Jessica surveyed at the students around her with an elegant aura.

"Those, who have seen our posters, I think you already know of our aim. Right? That's right; We're looking for ‘Silver Knight’-sama. That day, during the Necromancia’s attack, being the school’s off days, we deduced that there should be a lot of students who happened to be wandering by St. Durham Square… The combat scene. Now, in this classroom, there may have been one or two witnesses……"

"Don’t you think you're asking too much?"

Silvia interrupted Jessica’s speech with a courageous and serious voice.

"Oh my, I wondered who it might be, and it turned out to be Oujo-sama<ref>(王女) ''Ōjo'', "Princess".</ref>."

Jessica's response made Silvia’s face turn black.

"I'm not speaking to you as the Princess. This is the Student Council’s disciplinary affairs member who is now giving you a warning! Do you not realize that you are destroying the school's discipline?!!!"

"Ha! Since you're not talking to me as a Princess then I won’t be branded as disrespectful when I argue with you. Right?

Jessica's decision that she did not intend to make any concessions surprised others.

"Do you think your behavior is acceptable?"

"The school’s discipline compared to my own ‘desire’ is simply nothing!"

"Well, if that's the case, might you speak out your ambition? I'm all ears."

Jessica immediately raised her head and announced as though she had already prepared for this:

"I want to give birth to ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s children!"

An awkward silence suddenly enveloped the entire classroom.

Obviously everyone was feeling a little disgusted with her direct declaration.

Even Silvia was stunned speechless.

A low profile student who was one of the followers finally broke the silence.

"President! Your speech violated club regulation article one hundred and twenty-seven!"

"Hmm…... As expected of Vice-President Lynette-san. Good job noticing. Please allow me to withdraw my previous declaration."

“Withdrawal of declaration has been confirmed!"

After he had listened to Jessica and Lynette, who spoke annoyingly rhythmically, Ash muttered:

"Th-That rumor......"

Raymond tried to pacify his concern for Ash:

"Carelessly resisting is suicidal… Ash. I heard that the Valentine Family is a traditional noble family."

Facing Raymond’s smile. Eco started to speak out loud:

"Oh. I really can’t stand those people any longer. The true face behind 'Silver Knight' is……"

"W- Wa- Wait! Eco!"

Ash quickly covered her mouth from behind.

"Mmm -!"

Eco struggled with all her limbs. In the eyes of others it looked like Ash was, hugging her from behind, not wanting to let go. Her body's tenderness and lovely feel made Ash blush, but, still, he must not let go.

Was it rare that the school was helping me to control the information? If my identity were revealed, in a place like this, all their hard work would go to waste.

"Back to the topic, Princess Silvia, it is true that we are making a list of people who were present at the incident."

"So……?"

"Princess. Your name is also on top of our list. Maybe you already know the true identity of ‘Silver Knight’-sama. Am I right?"

“Y-You. What are you talking about?!"

It seemed that the straightforward character of Silvia was not good at lying.

Silvia was obviously shaken when Jessica hit the bull’s eye.

It was a lie if she said she didn’t know, because at that time the one riding with her on Lancelot was actually the ‘Silver Knight’.

"Hey…... Ash? It seems the situation has gotten worse."

Ash had already stood up and was coming to Silvia’s rescue when Raymond warned him.

"Miss. I’m sorry, but currently, its still school hours."

The crowd’s attention immediately turned to Ash.

Silvia also looked at Ash with a surprised expression. Perhaps this was an illusion but it seemed that she had breathed a sigh of relief.

"Hey. I remember that you are the Student Council’s……"

Ash mercilessly interrupted Jessica.

"Can you please leave the classroom immediately? Don't interrupt us in our lesson time."

The classroom fell silent.

Ash's determination caused the entire student body to gasp.

Unexpectedly. Jessica didn’t back down.

On the contrary. She was also smiling.

Compared with an undisguised expression that kind of smile was even scarier.

"Your name is Ash. Right? A guy with no obvious achievements but still allowed to join the Student Council…... Hey. Vice-President Lynette? His name is on the list of people who were at St. Durham Square. Isn’t it?"

Lynette, as though she had memorized the whole list, answered immediately without any hesitation:

"......Ash Blake, advanced course first year. Someone actually confirmed that he showed up near St. Durham Square!"

After hearing Lynette’s report, Ash broke out in a cold sweat.

"Speaking of this, people call you 'The Boy who can Ride any Dragon'. Could it be….... that you had possibly managed to ride the Necromancia?”

"……!"

A sudden hit at the bull’s eye left Ash speechless.

"It's just that ‘Silver Knight’-sama is a noble Ark-Dragner, and you…... Are nothing but simply a Breeder who is a nobody. People like you simply cannot be compared to ‘Silver Knight’-sama! Oh Hohoho!"

Fortunately Jessica just laughed at that thought. She would never have suspected she was at the cusp of the truth.

"Not to mention your Pal ...... hee hee, it's funny just by thinking at it. She turned out to be a child. Even this morning's ceremony had a really fantastic finish."

"Wh-What did you say……!"

Upon hearing this Eco naturally became angry and tried to stand up to refute but……

"You!!! Don’t interrupt."

Ash immediately reached out and stopped her.

"Who do you think you are......"

Although she felt reluctant. Eco shut her mouth.

All the SKFC members were trembling under the pressure of Ash’s aura.

Although Ash was now a member of the Student Council… In the past he was none other than the infamous 'Number One Problem Child’.

And it was not a name given for nothing.

Jessica was also no different; She was the only one who was showing no sign of fear.

"Ash. Stay calm! She's a noble!"

Raymond gave a out loud warning but Ash could not bothered by it.

"What is a noble to me when I even challenged a Princess!!!!!!"

"Ahh... You're right. I had totally forgotten all about it..."

Raymond looked into the distance with a crestfallen expression.

"How dare you insult my Pal...? What is the meaning of this? If you want to apologize… It's better that you do it right now!"

"Hah<ref>An insulting sound.</ref>! You are but a commoner and you dare to order ''me'' around!"

Ash and Jessica.

Each refused to back down and stared intently at each other.

Just when the tension reached its climax……

The classroom door was suddenly slammed open.

"So…... I see that you have been wandering around here. Jessica."

All the people in the classroom were attracted to the overwhelming presence everybody remained silent.

The one and only exception was Jessica.

“Rebecca! Y- Y…… You stay out of my way! "

Jessica unexpectedly kept her composure even when the opponent was Rebecca.

"He-Hey, that girl called Jessica... She really has some nerve? She actually dared to address Rebecca by her first name."

Raymond, opposite of the speechless Ash, calmly pulled out his notepad and made a quick flip.

"According to my information network…... Both of them seem to be childhood friends who grew up in the same hometown."

"You're still the same. Never missing out on any girl's information."

"Hmm…... You're wrong, Ash, it's limited to 'cute girls' only, okay?"

Raymond laughed proudly at his own work while Rebecca and Jessica's argument still continued.

"I would like to throw the question back to you, Rebecca, why are you here, now, at 'this place'?"

"I came here to find the members of the Student Council…... It seems that you still continue with the same stupidity. Jessica."

"You've come at just the right time! Everyone listen carefully!!! We have confirmation the Student Council is controlling the information of the St. Durham Square attacks! The Student Council went to all that trouble to cover up what? Does it imply that the Student Council has known ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s identity from the very beginning?"

"Even if it is the truth I am not obligated to tell you at all. I suggest you remember your duty as a student?"

"I have no intention of disturbing the class. I just simply urge everyone here to help us collect ‘Silver Knight’-sama’s information!"

"You're still the same. Full of nonsensical reasoning......"

"I, the representative of the SKFC, request the Student Council to reveal that information to the public!"

After Jessica’s tenacious declaration. Rebecca gave a frightening expression.

"......In the beginning I didn’t want to cause you trouble, because you are my childhood friend, but it seems that I need to deal with this another way."

Under the gaze of her fierce-looking eyes Jessica felt that she was going to surrender and back off.

In the eyes of Ash, it seemed that, Rebecca’s back was full of red glowing aura.

"Wha-What…... the Student Council President even tried to use force to solve problems……"

Jessica could not help but shrink and take a few steps backwards.

"Too bad. To think that I even bothered to treat you nicely."

Rebecca, with a graceful smile, whispered into the ears of Jessica.

"Yikes!"

Jessica immediately started sweating and her back unnaturally bent.

Jessica headed down and rushed out of the classroom. The Vice-President, Lynette, and the other SKFC members quickly followed.

"Right. Silvia of Disciplinary Affairs, Accounts<ref>The original can mean treasurer and accounts but still I think CFO is better :).</ref> Max, and Ash of General Affairs. The three people mentioned please report to the Student Council’s office immediately. An emergency meeting is to be held. That is all."

Rebecca left after she had informed the others.

"An emergency meeting... Is something wrong?"

Ash asked, but Max was equally confused.

"The President came personally to inform you, but she also chose to do it during lesson time...... certainly it is no simple matter."

Seated, between Ash and Max, Raymond gave a rare worrisome look and murmured and grumbled.

"I’m so lonely. I didn't expect that even Ash would join the Student Council…... Damn. Why am I the only one left out?"

"Raymond ......"

"Fortunately, I still have Eco! Hey Eco, why don’t the two of us go have a cup of tea……? Urgh!"

With her superhuman strength, and her iron fist, she knocked Raymond away.

"You shut up! Obviously I'm a member of the Student Council…... The woman dared to not mention my name and choose to ignore a noble Dragon? I will not forgive her!"

After Ash glanced at Raymond who was stuck on the wall, he spoke a few words to calm Eco down:

"You are their 'mascot'. So you don't have to attend any meetings."

"Nothing to do with me?! Since you all wounded the pride of a Dragon… I will attend no matter what!" Eco cried.

===Part 5===

The Student Council office was located at the top of the school premises in the central tower.

Ash, Silvia, Max, and Eco were all walking towards the Student Council office.

Max who walked at a quick pace lead the way while the trio of Silvia, Ash and Eco walked together.

The formation was purely coincidental, but sandwiched in between Eco and Silvia, Ash didn't need any more reason to feel nervous.

"Why are we not there yet......?" Ash even had such thoughts.

Since it was still class time there were no other students in the corridor.

But since the staff meeting had yet to end, every classroom had changed into homeroom.

Even though the students of Ansarivan were possessed of high self-imposed standards , homeroom was still inevitably noisy, even the corridors were full of the sounds of laughter.

"By the way. There are two members we haven’t met yet."

While climbing stairs. Ash asked while facing Max’s back.

"Ahh…… The vice president and the secretary? I think both of them will not be attending this meeting."

After hearing Max’s answer, Silvia responded to it.

“I cannot turn a deaf ear in this case. Do both of them have any consciousness of being in the student council? Any jobs related to the social welfare of people need to be completed with full effort…… These are the family rules of the Lautreamont family!!!! Who do the vice president and the secretary think they are? "

“Plea- Please allow your humble servant to explain to thee...... Ahem! "<ref>This whole sentence is spoken in polite form.</ref>

Max who was not used to being with Silvia spoke in the polite form so that’s why he couldn't help but give an unnatural cough.

Max found out that conversation using the polite form didn't seem natural even though he was addressing the princess, after all both of them were members of the student council, and they were students of the same grade.

"The vice president is famous, as one who only knows how to fool around, but that person's ability as a Dragner is obvious to all. That’s why the president will turn a blind eye. It is understandable."

Sure enough. Silvia was dissatisfied.

"How come there is such lax and insolent person! Since that person has an ability that the president acknowledges, but why is the vice president fooling around?"

"OK, OK, in this case since the president has acquiesced to it, complaining to Max will be useless."

Ash gently calmed Silvia down, but on the other hand he also agreed with her point of view.

"What kind of person is the secretary?"

Right after Ash asked Max answer with a mumbling tone.

"The secretary, in short, is no ordinary pushover. Anyway. You will meet sooner or later."

Speaking of which. They had arrived at the Student Council’s office. The topic regarding the vice president and the secretary came to a stop.

===Part 6===

"So let us begin our meeting."

Rebecca with her opening remark started the emergency meeting.

Ash was initially nervous, fearing that Rebecca would be unhappy with Eco who came without being invited, but in the end Rebecca didn't do or complain about anything.

Looking around, as Max had said, the vice president and the secretary seats were empty. So the secretary’s work was handed over to Max.

Although Ash was curious, about the vice president and secretary, in the end it was clearly not the right time to ask such questions.

The staff meeting had been extended and all classes were changed into homeroom, in this situation, it was not hard to figure out that something important had happened.

It seemed that it was really related to the attacks of the Necromancia?

Although he wasn't willing to make any assumption...... But this still did not rule out the occurrence of more serious incidents.

"I believe everyone had also heard about the rumor……"

The members present held their breath to listen to Rebecca's announcement.

"Recently, with the girl’s dormitory as their base, the organization named SKFC is highly active in the shadows."

"I beg your pardon?"

An unexpected answer caused Ash to almost fall off his chair. At first he wondered what emergency or urgent event it was but he didn't think for one moment that it would be the SKFC……

While observing the other people's reactions Silvia and Eco looked on blankly. Max alone seemed to have become accustomed to it while Rebecca continued with her speech.

"What is the problem?"

Under Rebecca's glare Ash hurriedly corrected his sitting posture.

"Uh…... Because you said it was an emergency meeting… I thought it would be a more intractable problem."

"Take it easy, we are not at the main topic yet. SKFC is just a side problem to be discussed."

"I see…..."

Ash nodded to indicate his understanding. At this time Silvia suddenly raised her hand.

"What is the problem. Silvia?"

"I have something that I don’t understand. When president sent Jessica Valentine running off…..."

"Oh. I'd like to hear too."

Ash echoed Silvia’s question.

Rebecca took only a few words to send off that arrogant Jessica which made everyone curious what she whispered into Jessica’s ears.

“Oh, that thing."

Rebecca shrugged with a wry smile.

"As you know. She and I are childhood playmates. No. It wouldn't be an exaggeration if I say we are family. Since childhood she sees me as her rival…... In short; She hates to admit defeat."

"Just like family......? I have heard of the Valentines being a traditional noble family."

After Ash stated the information acquired from Raymond Rebecca could not help but burst out laughing.

"Oh... This is really an interesting rumor. Their family has been serving the family of Randall as house maids for generations. Just like the house of Shirley who serves the royal family of the Paladin<ref>Paladin; The king of Lautreamont knight country and also the highest class of all Dragner still the interesting thing is that the current king is not even a breeder.</ref>." Rebecca, with her eyes staring into a distance, murmured.

"That girl...... A maid?"

Jessica's glamorous figure and the word maid could not completely be combined. Ash was shocked.

"So. I threatened her…… If you continue to stir up trouble… Do not blame me if I announce the Valentine family’s background to the public."

From the look in her eyes it was like she was lecturing her useless little sister.

"But why did she lie that the Valentine family is of nobility?"

Silvia seemed completely unable to understand Jessica’s thinking.

"Jessica from time to time likes to daydream, she had a particular strong sense for nobility, and now she even seriously believes her family is from a royal linage...... you just need to take it as a disease that can be commonly seen in the adolescence years."<ref>Referring to [http://animanga.wikia.com/wiki/Chuunibyou 中二病/ちゅうにびょう/Chuunibyou]</ref>

"So that is how it is......"

With the misunderstanding cleared up Ash felt relieved.

At the same time after learning that the Valentine’s were maids, Ash subconsciously began to imagine Jessica wearing a maid costume.

That insufferably arrogant girl, with a feel of nobility, when put in maid attire to serve her master, somehow… It doesn't feel bad…… Ash cannot help but fantasizing Jessica’s graceful appearance.

"Hey…... What are you thinking?"

When he returned back to consciousness… He felt a painful sting on side of his cheek.

Eco, somewhat forcefully, had slapped Ash’s face.

"No, nothing, I am not thinking of anything…..."

Ash face is full of embarrassment.

"Are you're thinking of some improper image?"

"Urgh. I am also thinking the same thing."

Even Silvia, also supporting the views of Eco, questioned Ash.

"I think there is an eighty percent chance that he most likely imagined Jessica wearing a maid attire."

After Rebecca's cheeky outspokenness of her own views… Ash suddenly turned pale.

"Ho-How do you know?"

"Oh. I managed to guess it? I am just speaking from my woman's intuition…"

Rebecca seems happily laughing.

Ash feels a murderous intend behind and quickly turns around to look back.

"Have you forgotten that I am rearing you……? And yet you still dare to have fantasies of those females...... You cannot be forgiven! Don’t you think you lack self-consciousness?"

Eco’s fist is shaking.

"How dare you have any perverted thoughts of other students attending the same school…... How shameless! All enemies of women must taste the iron hammer of death!"

Silvia was flushed with anger.

"Wa-Wait! It is just that I was distracted for a moment! Besides. Why do you need to be angry with me because of these things?"

"I'm gonna trample you!"

"The inviolable family rules!"

Eco's kick and Silvia's punch hit Ash at the same time.

“……”

After Ash stumbled back to his seat, the meeting continued to proceed as usual, like nothing had happened.

“President…... I would like to ask. "

Silvia asked.

"What is the problem. Silvia?"

"Just now you say that Jessica has taken you as her rival...... Is her ability that amazing? Jessica Valentine this is the first time I heard her name…..."

Silvia has a good reason to doubt.

Rebecca is not just only an Ark Dragner but also the president of the school’s student council.

She is undoubtedly the strongest Dragner in the whole Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Even the Professors or the practical skill instructors can only admit defeat when it comes to Rebecca.

To take Rebecca as her rival. No matter how you think of it, it is not normal.

"Jessica ...... In fact, is very motivated for her own self improvement, but she is always futile or she is very persistent in doing things that are meaningless. I cannot deny that she is one of those ‘who are able to overcome all kinds of hardships if you just put in effort' ...... "

To be able to be praised by Rebecca, regardless of her written performance<ref>Could probably mean test results.</ref>, maybe she is someone who really has some skill.

"In conclusion. The SKFC, that Jessica leads, wants to expose the true identity of the 'Silver Knight'. If their objective was only this we can leave them be. But what they desire is not just this, when given the opportunity, they would like to obtain the sperm of the ‘Silver Knight’."

"Spe-Spe……!"

Silvia suddenly blushed. Her movement become very unnatural. Seeing her being so shy, Ash also cannot help but feel embarrassed.

"What is it that they want? Is it delicious?"

Unlike Silvia. Eco was only confused.

"Nothing. You need not know such a thing." Ash said.

"Even you know. As your owner is it not logical that I don't know!"

"What sort of reasoning is that?!!!!"

"Hmph, even if you do not want to tell me, I still have the dragweiss!"

Eco, like entering a trance, suddenly closes her eyes.

For dragons, that have a longer history than humans, she can search for information dating back centuries.

"Wha ... What!"

After just a few seconds… Eco’s whole face is blushing as if she was on flame.

At the same time she turned very angry.

"Are you kidding!? Ther-There are actually such a large number of female animals trying to access…... this guy’s…... Spe-Spe......? That’s why I said… Humans are stupid and ignorant fools!"

Eco seems to be ashamed and embarrassed to speak out that word. It is rare that Eco is blushing exactly like Silvia.

"Hmph…... it seems that the word 'obscene' needed to be added at the back of 'stupid and ignorant'.
"This human sounds really nasty!"

"Stupid, ignorant and obscene humans!"

"You do not need to repeat! It is hard to pronounce!"

"Then you should kneel down and apologize. I will remove the word 'obscene'. I’ll let you represent all mankind. This opportunity is not easy to get you know!?"

[[Image: Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p064.jpg |thumb]]
"I will not represent this!"

Ash angrily complained as Rebecca interrupted by coughing loudly with "Ahem".

Suddenly, back to reality, cold sweats emerge from Ash.

Disregarding the meeting, Ash and Eco, both of them are arguing.

"So-sorry ...... Hey you come and sit down."

"Hmph. Don’t you order me......!"

Eco wanted to sternly reject but halfway she closed her mouth. While staring at Rebecca's face… Her expression was like she had seen on wild bears in the forest.

Following Eco Ash's sight drifted towards Rebecca. Facing her. Ash felt the same chill in his spine.

"Are you satisfied?"

Even while Rebecca was smiling… Her eyes definitely are not smiling in the slightest.

"I- I understand ......"

Eco is reluctant to sit down on her seat. Perhaps her animal instinct makes her detect Rebecca unfathomable terror.

"Back to the main point, about SKFC, in all cases, we will be focusing and paying more attention to prevent them from finding out the identity of the ‘Silver Knight’."

Under Rebecca’s glare everyone nodded.

"But fortunately they thought ‘Silver Knight’ is an Ark Dragner, which Eco needs to be thanked for in making the Ark. So SKFC should be less likely to target Ash who has not become a Dragner. Even I, until now, failed to fully understand how Eco managed that."

"Hmmm. Manage? It is good that you understand how great that is!"

As her previous fear disappeared Eco starts to act arrogant again.

"In short, Jessica is not a person who will easily give up, so you should be careful in this case. Anyway, the secret of the Valentine family, please do not expose it. After all that’s been her secret since her enrolment to this academy. It will be harsh on her if it is exposed…… Now back to the ‘main’ topic."

Rebecca places her elbows on the table with her fingers overlapping. Then she gently lift up her beautiful chin.

Ash notices that Rebecca is worrying about something.

How tough is the problem that Rebecca is facing now?

"The fact is…... I have received a message….. The first princess of Lautreamont, Veronica Lautreamont, will come to Ansarivan to visit for a week."

After they heard this news, everyone knew the seriousness of this situation, suddenly they all turn solemn and silent, but right at the next second……

"Noooooo…….!"

The Silvia is moaning abnormally.

"Anything. Silvia?"

Rebecca is concerned about her but Silvia did not answer.

"An-Anee-ue sh-she’s...... A tyrant...... "

The change in Silvia startled the others.

"Is she really coming to Ansarivan?"

Silvia is trembling and turns pale as if the end of the world is coming. She huddles up and hides under the table. She is shaking with her hands protecting her head.

The usual Silvia who is always energetic in reality has a timid side – Even when Ash had already knew this fact it is still hard to imagine that Silvia would act like this.

"Are you alright? Princess."

When looking under the table, at the same time, Ash remembers the nick name of the first princess Veronica Lautreamont…...

She is called the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’.

"The Legend of Silver Knight ~A.S.B.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
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|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Prologue

2014-02-08T02:07:49Z

Aoi uchuu: English phrases mostly. Words and grammar too.

==Prologue==
Lautreamont Knight Country. People called it the country of Dragon Breeders.

To the north was the Zepharos Empire while to the south was the Chevron Kingdom.

Sandwiched between these two major powers a small country, with a population of no more than five million, had a special academy.

Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Educating and guiding teenage boys and girls, who formed a contract with dragons, -- an academy for Dragon Breeders.

===Part 1===

"Well… We would like to introduce the new members of the Student Council to all of you students."

Rebecca declared in a loud voice to all the students gathered in the lecture hall.

The Student Council president, Rebecca Randall, with the prestigious nickname "Scarlet Empress", looking like a marble statue, glorious and splendid, attracted the attention of all the students.

"First of all, in charge of Disciplinary Affairs, Silvia."

"Yes!"

After Silvia solemnly answered she took a step forward from the stage's side curtain.

"Blue Ice Princess" Rebecca declared proudly.

Just like the impression given through that name, Silvia's blue eyes were as cold as ice with bright blond hair that embellished her white beauty.

"I am Silvia Lautreamont and this is the first time I have joined the Student Council. Although I'm still young, inexperienced and have much to learn, I swear I will make every effort to maintain the discipline of Ansarivan Dragon Rider Academy. I hope that every student will take care of me in the future."

Her modest way of speaking, in direct contrast to her reputation, caused many whispers among the students.

The overbearing aura of arrogance that previously surrounded Silvia had suddenly disappeared.

Silvia gracefully took a bow and the audience burst into thunderous applause, however, because of the enthusiastic applause, Silvia herself couldn't help but feel somewhat confused.

Maybe it was because she felt embarrassed but Silvia quickly dashed toward to the side of the stage behind the curtains.

"Your speech was great." Said Ash.

Ash, who also became a Student Council member at the same time, was standing by the stage smiling cheekily towards Silvia, who just ran off the stage because of her shyness.

"What's so great about that..." Silva admited abashedly.

Perhaps because she wasn't accustomed to being praised, Silvia blushed. Because of her embarrassment she looked down at the ground. After a while her swollen face suddenly stiffened, and she snappily asked Ash:

"That's none of your concern! Why don't you mind your own business! You're going up on the stage next. Are you sure you'll be all right?"

"Th...That's..."

For the infamous Ash, who is the school's most problematic student, naturally, this is the first time he would be on stage in this situation. He would be lying if he said that he was not nervous.

"...I envy you, Princess. You don't have anything to do with the word 'tense'." Ash said.

"Don't be silly. I also felt tense!" Silva said self-consciously.

Ash, shocked by Silvia's aggressive manner, couldn't help but shrink back.

"Ah, sorry. Because you didn't seem nervous, I couldn't help but ..."

"As the king's daughter, I was raised up to be brought to participate in many ceremonies, I do not have stage fright, however, it's also impossible not to feel nervous."

"Is it? Then… I feel a little better."

After seeing Ash laughing out of the blue. Silvia looked at him in surprise.

"So even Her Royal Highness can be nervous. Ah... then it is quite okay for ordinary people like me to feel nervous. After knowing about this, I suddenly feel relieved. Thank you!" Ash beamed.

"I- It's nothing, there's no need to thank me, for something so small."

Silvia embarrassingly turned her face to the side.

"Well, now, I'll introduce the next member. The school's 'Number One Problem Child', who is now turning a new leaf, in charge of General Affairs. Ash Blake."

A noisy boiling atmosphere emerged in the hall right after Rebecca's sentence.

"To put it another way… 'General Affairs' means to help with anything. So no matter what difficulties we run into feel free to discuss it with Ash."

Seeing the increasingly boiling atmosphere Ash could not help but feel distressed.

Looking from the center of the stage out into the entire hall a total of four hundred students, from basic to advanced courses, densely filled his entire field of vision.

"Shit..."

Obviously, just before this moment, he could relax thanks to Silvia's help, but after he came out and stood on center stage, the feeling of nervousness emerged without his knowledge.

"..."

Ash suddenly worried about the bandage covering his left arm.

On Ash's left arm, the 'Seikoku' pattern was imprinted.

Any Breeder must have an imprint trace, but Ash's 'Seikoku' area is extremely large, in which it covered almost all of his left arm.

Because of this, Ash's everyday life had always been with a bandage-covered 'Seikoku' to avoid it from being seen.

This morning… He had been even more careful than usual while wrapping his bandage.

Even so, in the view of the audience, there was a feeling of uneasiness - fearing that his 'Seikoku' will be seen by the audience through the clothing and bandages.

"Hey... You better stay strong."

At that moment, Silvia's soft voice could be heard whispering in his ear.

Ash pretended to turn his head around casually and discovred Silvia staring directly at him.

"...Princess?"

Silvia, who held her fist towards her chest, forcefully nodded.

''- To think Princess would actually cheer for me ...!''

Even though it was a small action Ash suddenly felt a lot more at ease.

He turned his gaze back to the students.

"Uh ... I have just become a member of the Student Council. My name is Ash Blake. To be honest, I don't know what to do...... Wha... Whatever it is, I will do my job with all my might, so please take care of me!"

After he truthfully expressed his feelings… Ash gave a deep bow.

While maintaining his posture, one second passed, two seconds later.

The hall remained stone silent!

''--Is it me, this infamous guy, no matter how much I express myself, I couldn't make myself be acknowledged by others?...''

Just as he started to regret-

Then, suddenly, loud clapping sound could be heard by Ash.

"Princess ...?"

That's right. Silvia, standing on the stage side curtain, took the lead by starting to applaud.

Rebecca also started clapping along.

Driven by both applauds… The sound of applause slowly spread to every corner of the venue.

Ash looked around the hall. His best friends, Raymond and Max, were smiling at him while clapping and cheering.

"Everyone!"

In a blink of an eye… The enthusiastic applause grew similar to that from Silvia's speech.

===Part 2===
The relieved Ash returned to the stage's side curtain.

"Hmm... Pretty much so-so."

In just the next moment… Silvia immediately resumed her usually chilly attitude. However. Ash decided to take it as praise.

"It's all thanks to you. Princess... Is Eco not present yet?"

Ash's pal, Eco, had yet to show up, which made him worry.

The main character of this office ceremony is by no means for Ash and Silvia only.

Some time ago, during the celebration of the birth of young dragon Eco, or 'Pal Party', Rebecca kissed Ash, Silvia, and Eco's cheek, in the name of the initiation ceremony.

Since she accepted Rebecca's kiss… Eco became a member of the Student Council.

So right after Silvia and Ash had their speech, it should be Eco who should be getting ready by the stage side curtain... However. She had disappeared without a trace.

"Indeed. She was too late. Hopefully Cosette will not perform any tricks... "

Silvia frowned.

Cosette was dispatched, to Ansarivan from the palace, to serve as Silvia's maid. While Ash was busy he asked her to help take care of Eco.

''"I'll take care of her clothing."'' After she learned that Eco will be going on stage… Cosette excitedly volunteered.

But that was two hours ago.

"Does picking clothes have to take so much time?"

"Cosette will certainly lose herself while dressing up Eco as a doll. I can't help but pity her."

"You say it as if you have been a victim."

"Please don't make me remember it..."

Silvia looked very funny when she plunged her head under her arms.

===Part 3===
While Ash and Silvia are chattering… Rebecca was giving a speech in order to buy some time.

"... That day, Silvia with soulful eyes said to me, 'I will certainly do my best. Also… Please call me by my name, at least in the Student Council, please do not take me as the Royal Princess of the Knight Country.'"

Rebecca vividly described to the students the actual scenes of the 'Pal Party'.

"... At that time, I felt as if someone had confessed to me. By the way, my fellow students, even though Silvia looks like an old fogy, in fact she has one or two men to her liking-"

"President! That’s enough!"

Silvia raised her fist in anger, cursing from the side curtain offstage.

Suddenly laughter enveloped the school hall.

At this moment…

''-Bang!''

The hall main door was slammed open by someone.

Everyone turned their head back to look behind the door.

The excited Rebecca proudly announced:

"Dear students, our third new member, Eco, has finally appeared!"

Eco walked majestically and the students separated into two parts to clear a path for her.

Following after her steps, "Knock, knock"<ref>Sound of footsteps.</ref> a chilled sound is echoed in the hall.

Cosette followed behind Eco. She was dressed in her usual maid attire and was acting as Eco's retinue.

"Wh-what’s that?"

Ash stuck his head out from the stage side curtain, shocked.

Silvia was also stunned.

Rebecca, from the side, looked proudly at Eco as she progressed towards the stage, began her introduction:

"As all of you had heard, Eco, Ash's partner, was born last month. I do not know why, she has the appearance of a human even though she’s a Dragon, but we can communicate with her. Therefore. We decided to let Eco become the mascot of the Student Council and sincerely welcome her to join it!"

On the stage, Eco is gazing around the whole school.

The audience clearly felt the strong will behind her bright, ruby-coloured, eyes.

Her silvery-pink hair was light and elegant.

On the sides of her head are the symbol of the dragon tribe… Which are her horns. But because Eco is still a young dragon the shape of her horns don't look pointy but more like ‘circular stubs’.

She was dressed in a luxurious black dress despite her petite body.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p021.jpg|thumb]]

"Is that… Eco?"

Ash unconsciously murmured and muttered.

Eco's appearance is not only beautiful but her whole body radiated with an elegant atmosphere. Even if one says that she is a princess there is no reason anyone wouldn't believe it.

In fact the students seemed to be subdued by Eco's beauty.

"Just say hello to everyone Eco! Just do exactly as I taught you to do and there won’t be any problems."

The words Cosette whispered to Eco were overheard by Ash.

"Ar… Are you sure?"

Eco asked innocently.

"Of course. I, Cosette, promise you that this will be a great opportunity to immediately win everyone's hearts."

Cosette smiled.

Ash, confused by her words, felt a bad omen.

"Alright."

Eco, not bothered by Ash’s worries, obediently nodded, ''"huff ..."'' she inhaled deeply.

Everyone, without exception, became breathless and focused their attention on Eco's every move.

Eco posed, her hands high in the air, as if to intimidate...

"Gaoo!”

She let out a roar in front of the students in front of the whole school.

To say she was roaring isn't right; The correct context might be more like reading directly from a script. (Cosette's)

There was a brief moment of silence, and the hall was soon filled with laughter.

"Wh... Why is everyone laughing?"

The students’ response stunned her.

===Part 4===
Apollo<ref>God of sun. One of the Olympians. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apollo]</ref> House is the student dormitory where the male upperclassmen live.

Ash's personal room is located on the third floor.

Eco had settled here for about a month.

Although she is a dragon… A beautiful girl admitted to the male dormitory had set off a momentary uproar in the Apollo House. However, since she had been already living here a month, many had become accustomed to it.

Just right after she stepped into the room… Eco angrily stomped around.

"This is too outrageous! They actually dare to make fun of such a noble Dragon... This is a sin that cannot be forgiven! This is why I hate those stupid and ignorant humans!"

"You can't blame them... Your greeting was just too different. A dragon will never roar with "Gaoo". Right?”

When the fact of Ash’s simmering smile was revealed Eco glared angrily at him.

"It's all Cosette's fault! She lied to me! She told me that a dragon must capture the hearts of everyone and that would be the most effective way!"

"Okay... I got it."

"What do ''you'' know?"

"Simply put. Cosette saw that you usually act high and mighty so she kindly helped you think out this plan. If it weren't for her advice... I‘m pretty sure that there would be about an eighty percent chance of you going up to the stage with your proud attitude and shout "You bunch of stupid and ignorant humans…!" That sort of nonsense."

"Well..."

With Ash's deduction seeming entirely correct… Eco suddenly became speechless.

"So in order to avoid those awkward scenes. Cosette helped you in her own way. And the result is?"

"The result is that I just become the laughing stock for humans!"

"No, you're wrong, everyone doesn't take you as a joke to laugh at."

"So why were they laughing?"

"No, you're still, wrong. Everyone thinks that it was very interesting and feels friendly towards you. On the other hand… That dress suits you."

"Huh ...?"

Eco's cheeks quickly turned red as if there was a wild fire burning.

"Are… Are you alright?"

"No. It's nothing!"

Eco angrily shook her face to the side but Ash could not help but smile. All of a sudden he got carried away and reached out to pat Eco's head.

"Are you shy? Haha. It seems that you, too, have a cute side."

Her soft hair felt really comfortable and Ash became addicted and couldn't stop himself.

"You......"

While facing one's own intoxicated and heavenly atmosphere… Eco's eyes suddenly burst out with a dangerous flare.

By looking closely you'll notice that she is frequently shaking her little fist.

"It appears that... You still don’t know your place."

"Hey, calm down, Eco......"

"I warned you. Didn't I? Instead of you keeping me as a pet-"

Eco took a murderous step forward.

"I'm your owner! Now quickly kneel on the ground!"

"Uwa!"

In the instant he collided with Eco… He suddenly felt dizzy.

In the blink of an eye Ash is facing down on the floor.

Eco pulled up her skirt and lifted her foot high up in the air.

Despite it's small and exquisite size that small foot contained a power which was undoubtedly no different from a dragon.

Ash’s spine suddenly felt a chill.

"Wait a minute! By the way. Are you hungry?"

"Don’t you worry. Before the ceremony<ref>The original meaning is something like promotion ceremony to tell others that you had taken up a job. But to think that I did write promotional ceremony in english XD. Sorry if I forgot to mention this before.</ref>, Cosette had given me something to eat."

The strategy, with the food temptations, was ineffective.

"Since you’re full... Then you have to hurry and return the dress! Wearing such a dress while acting wild will crumple the clothes!”

"You don't need to worry so much. Besides this dress is mine."

"No way! You can't take someone else’s things and claim them as your own!"

"Cosette presented it to me. I heard that this dress was originally Silvia's but she had outgrown it."

"Why is it Cosette again...? Before Ash could finish his sentence… Eco stepped on his back.

'Crack<ref>Sound of bone cracking.</ref>'!"

"Shut up! I want you crushed!"

"You already crushed it... A while ago."

The force was so strong it's hard to imagine the one standing on his back was just the girl's tiny feet.

An uncomfortable amount of sweat flowed out from his forehead to the neck area.

"What did you just say?"

"Huff!"

Eco started to turn and twist her foot almost drawing a circle on Ash’s back.

Ash clearly heard the screams of his spine.

"My spine! My spine! Ah! Ah! Ah......!"

"How is it? Now do you know where your place is?"

While he is gradually losing consciousness. Ash thought he saw an illusion of a sea of flowers.

===Part 5===
In the year of the Saint, 1365, half a month has already passed by in the month of Taurus.

After the Necromancia attack… Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy is finally getting ready for the school's reopening.

"Initiation ~A.S.B.1365.5~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Illustrations|Illustrations]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 1 Chapter 1

2014-01-26T01:59:54Z

Aoi uchuu: spelling

{{Incomplete}}

== Chapter 1 - Eco the Dragon Girl ==
=== Part 1 ===

Ash's body shuddered. He clearly felt the presence of someone sneaking into his room and crawling onto the bed.

—''You aren't letting me off tonight, too''......?

In the pitch black darkness… The girl's hair and skin had a piercingly cold radiance.

The full moon outside the window overhanging the horizon.

Ash remembered clearly that he had closed the curtains before sleeping.

"Fufu...... It's a beautiful night. Don't you think so?"

The girl looked at Ash disdainfully with the eyes of a conqueror. Her lips showed a bewitching smile.

"Uuu!"

Ash, who was lying on the bed, suddenly could not move.

The girl had sat on Ash's abdomen with her legs spread out. Instead of oppression, Ash could feel warmth coming from the part of his abdomen that was in contact with the lower half of the girl's body.

A faint aroma permeated the room.

What a bewitchingly beautiful girl.

She had waist-long pink hair with a silver shine, snow-white skin and ruby-colored eyes.

She was only wearing the bare minimum of clothes and was almost naked.

The two big bulges on her chest in front of Ash's face shook slightly.

On each side of her head grew a horn that was no different from a dragon's.

"Who are you? Why are you always...... Uuuuu!"

Ash's question was forcefully interrupted. The upper half of the girl's body slowly approached and hugged Ash tightly.

Her white and smooth skin came into contact with Ash's body with nothing in between.

Her luscious lips whispered into Ash's ear.

"I will also dote on you well tonight."

After letting out a hot breath of air… The girl nibbled Ash's earlobe. <nowiki>*</nowiki>Kaa—* The sound was similar to that of biting the ear's bone.

“N-no...... Don't do that......!"

Ash's body trembled non-stop as if struck by lightning.

The girl greedily devoured Ash's body. Neck, chest, waist, arms…… The numbness of his skin from her tender tongue and sparkling teeth sliding across the skin almost made Ash lose his mind.

Tonight, as usual, the girl shifted her body as she pleased while maintaining that position. It was like a dance.

It's been seven days since the appearance of the mysterious girl.

The girl, who appeared at Ash's bedside every night, spending every moment teasing him playfully.

Who on earth is she?

And what motive does she have?

Why are there two horns growing on her head?

The girl never answered questions.

She always danced on Ash's body and left slowly taking light steps.

The girl's teasing was in full force. Ash would always end up lying on the bed exhausted after the ordeal. Currently sitting by the window, the girl was lifting her slender and beautiful legs with a composed expression.

According to his experience from the past six days. The girl was now going to disappear right before Ash's eyes.

—''After all, this is only a dream''......

When he next opens his eyes… He would be seeing the usual morning.

At least, it has been so for the past six days.

"My name is Navi."

Ash was shocked from suddenly hearing a name that he did not recognize.

This was the first time hearing the girl say her own name.

Ash gathered the last bit of his strength and barely managed to lift up the upper part of his body.

"Navi...... Who are you? Why are you doing this?"

"To entrust myself, who is about to be born soon, to you…… Consider it a form of ritual."

"I don't get what you mean."

"See you, until next time, when we meet in real life!"

Navi's figure became countless silver particles and disappeared in the bright moonlight.

=== Part 2 ===
<nowiki>*</nowiki>—Dong*

At dawn… Ash was abruptly woken up by the sound of a large cannon being fired.

A few seconds later… He then realized that the huge sound was actually from the releasing of fireworks using Oracles.

Ash was at Apollo House.

The dormitory where male students of the Advanced Course<ref>There seems to be another name for the courses such as Yunios for Basic Course as seen in the manga, since my raws used the terms "Basic Course" and "Advanced Course", I shall leave it be</ref> lived at.

A few months earlier, after completing three years of basic courses, Ash had successfully become a first-year student of the Advanced Course and earned the qualification to live in Apollo House.

The biggest difference between Apollo House and other dormitories was the one-person, one-room system. Compared to the past whereby three people had to squeeze into one small room, life in Apollo House was like heaven.

"Uuu...... It's cold!"

Ash's shoulders shivered the moment he got out of bed.

The dawn of an early spring morning still carried a deep chill. Bearing with it the impulse to rush back into bed… Ash pulled open the curtains.

Ash's room was on the third floor. One could see the whole field by standing at the window.

On this dawn; There were many students in the field carrying out preparation work for the "celebration". There were also a lot of riders on their dragons.

Teams of Stradas<ref>Literally air/winged dragon (second interpretation was from my translation from Chinese), the only dragons other than Maestros that can fly</ref> swept across the horizon. It was in preparation for the celebration that was about to start.

The giant lizards running back and forth on the field were the brilliant Asias.<ref>Literally land/earth dragon, it's pronounced as "Aahsia" instead of the way we pronounce the name of that particular continent</ref>

"It is about to start."

The large field was shrouded in a mysterious and unusual atmosphere. Ash started to get nervous.

"Yo, Ash! Time to get up!"

At that moment… Ash heard his friend's voice accompanied by the sound of door knocking.

"Raymond? Give me a moment!"

Ash frantically took out the bandage roll from the first-aid box.

He wrapped the bandage around his left hand to cover up the «Seikoku»<ref>"星刻", literally star-marked/carved</ref> on his arm.

The pattern on his arm was the proof of a Breeder.

At the age of seven; Ash took part in the «Orphan Ceremony» held in Albion Forest and had a dragon larva put in his body.

Unfortunately, Ash's memories of that time were foggy with a lot of parts missing.

Since he obtained the «Seikoku», by logic, he should have seen Mother Dragon within the deep parts of the forest. However. Ash did not even have the slightest impression of having any memories of that scene.

''I really messed up'', Ash thought in self-mockery.

Compared to other students, the «Seikoku» pattern on Ash's arm was especially big.

Similar to a tattoo, of unique design, it extended from his elbow to his wrist like a jet-black snake.

"...... Sorry to keep you waiting."

Finished with wrapping up… Ash opened the door to his room.

His good friend, Raymond Kirkland, was standing at the door with a hearty smile.

"The bandage again? Why don't you try something new?"

"Hmph. A normal person like you won't understand my feelings at all."

Ash was displeased. Raymond could not help but shake his head with a bitter smile.

"Sorry. It's my fault...... Hnn? Your face is red. Do you have a fever?"

"No. Actually...... I've had weird dreams for the past week."

"Weird dreams? What kind of weird dreams?"

"A beautiful girl crawled into my bed. Then… She did a lot of things……"

It was really embarrassing to speak about this sort of things. Ash blushed while recounting what happened.

Raymond could not resist laughing.

"Are you ''that'' desperate for a girl? That is too exaggerated!"

"Are ''you'' any better? We are in the same situation!"

"Nonono. I am different from you. It's not that I'm not popular with the ladies; It's just that I have not yet found someone suited for me."

Raymond took out a small mirror and started admiring himself.

Almost all the students of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy knew that Raymond had severe narcissism. To be fair… Everyone acknowledged that Raymond was a handsome young man. However. People did not dare to get close to him because his personality destroyed the great first impression he gave due to his looks. It was like ruining your own image the moment you speak.<ref>This is a more literal translation of the expression used</ref>

"...... What are you visiting me for so early in the morning?"

Ash said unhappily. Raymond walked into the room as if that did not concern him.

"Did you forget? The competition that we're looking forward to for so long starts today. Speaking of the competition… You must not forget about flirting with girls!"

"What has flirting got to do with the competition? You should also get out there and enter the competition!"

The righteous Ash raised his volume, but, Raymond countered with an evil smile.

"If I didn't remember wrongly… You should be the first Advanced Course student, since the founding of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy, to still have the larva in his body?"

"Uuu......"

Even if he did not wish for it to be so… Ash could not deny that fact. That's right, Ash's dragon companion was still sleeping in his body without a single sign of waking up.

There was not a single change since that year when he was chosen to be a Breeder at the age of seven.

To the students of Ansarivan; Rousing the dragons, growing within their bodies, from slumber was their most basic mission.

Other students had obtained their pals in the first year of basic lessons. All except Ash.

—Pal.

This was a very sacred word… Representing "the dragon nurtured by the Breeder himself". A larva still sleeping within the Breeder's body cannot be addressed as 'pal'.

"Ash, to participate in today's competition, you seem to need something?"

"Yeah, I need a dragon."

"That's right. So. Do you want to borrow my pal?"

Raymond's pal was called Brigid.

Borrowing Brigid was, of course, one of the options Ash was considering. Actually, Ash already knew that Raymond was planning to skip the competition this time.

However. Just accepting Raymond's suggestion like that really hurt Ash's dignity so Ash decided to refuse tactfully.

"I can also borrow Arianrhod<ref>A goddess from Celtic mythology, "arian" meaning silver and "rhod" meaning wheel, many names used in the series are related to Arthurian legends or myths of the same culture</ref> from Max. He's a member of the Student Council and thus cannot take part in the competition."

Student Council members made up the executive committee for the competition and were unable to participate. Max also stated clearly his intention of not participating in the competition.

"You're too naive, Ash. Do you think that Max would lend you his pal?"

"What is it about me?" Max was there leaning on the side of the door in perfectly good condition.

"Uohh!"

Raymond jumped in surprise. Turning around.

"Good morning. Max."

Ignoring Ash's greeting… Max silently adjusted the position of his glasses with his hand.

Maximillian Russell, Ash's classmate, honor student bestowed the title of Dragner by the Paladin and also the Student Council's treasurer.

"You two being so noisy early in the morning… What happened?"

"Ash was crying and begging me to lend him Brigid to participate in the competition."

"Who's crying and begging you?! Max. Can you lend me your Arianrhod? It's just for today."

Yes, for a particular reason, Ash had to participate in today's competition no matter what.

"You want to borrow my pal? In your next life."<ref>Chinese expression meaning that it is impossible to do or achieve it.</ref>

"There's no need to be so ruthless. Right?"

"Let's not discuss about this matter for the moment......"

Max sized up Ash with his sharp eyes.

"You should see for yourself the state this room is in! Didn't I remind you again and again that you must keep your own room clean?"

The overbearing Max walked into the room with big strides and immediately started cleaning. Ever since moving into Apollo House… There has never been a day when Ash's room was clean and neat.

"This scene sure brings back memories."

Gazing at Max working hard at cleaning, Raymond could not help but shake his head with a bitter smile.

—Ash, Raymond, Max.

When they were still Basic Course students, they had gone through many sentimental times together at Merk<ref>Couldn't really find a name with a mythological reference, so I chose one that had Scottish links, do tell me if you found the right name that sounds the same</ref> House. At that time, having a room to yourself was still a faraway dream and the three of them had to squeeze into a small room. Ash and Raymond had a hard time dealing with Max who was a neat freak almost to the point of it being an illness.

"......I have always wondered."

Done with cleaning, Max turned around and looked at Ash.

"Why can you ride other people's pals?"

"Well...... How should I say this......"

"By logic; Dragons only allow their own masters to ride them. There have been many Breeders in the past who have tried riding other people's dragons but they all failed."

"That is indeed true, but, I have obtained consent from the teacher, so it should be all right?"

"Why are you still so indecisive when doing things, just like in the past? Sigh. If you really intend to participate in the competition… Just borrow Brigid. I'll inform the Student Council president."

Ending with that authoritative tone Max left without turning back.

"I wonder who's the one that hasn't changed at all."

Raymond once again shook his head. This time with a bitter smile.

Ash suddenly drew close to Raymond.

"You will lend me Brigid… Right?"

Raymond nodded his head with his eyes having a peculiar glow.

"Of course. You must make the princess change her impression of you!"

Hearing that, Ash's expression instantly became serious.

"I have that intention too."

=== Part 3 ===

The grand fireworks were dazzling.

There was a tense atmosphere in the academy accompanied by excitement in the air.

The "race" Raymond spoke of was one of the names it was commonly known by. The official name was "Aries Dragon Riding Festival". An annual grand event held in the month of Aries (fourth month).<ref>The names of months in the story are taken from the names of the horoscopes in order.</ref>

It was also a springtime activity held by Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Ash, having changed into a Dragsuit,<ref>Term for the clothes worn when riding a dragon</ref> arrived at the academy's sports field.

It was a cloudless sunny day and was decent weather suitable for a race.

Many students on dragons had already gathered on the sports field.

By a rough estimate… There should be over fifty people.

Ash was riding on Brigid, which he borrowed from Raymond, using the reins in his hands to guide Brigid towards the middle of the field.

"You're in a good mood today, Brigid."

Brigid replied to Ash's greeting with a low cry like a spoiled child.

Brigid was an Asia fancied by Ash. Having four greatly developed legs and no wings Brigid did not look like a dragon but more like the larger types of lizards.

Cheers suddenly arose from the students on the field.

"A good morning to all students."

The radiant Student Council president appeared at the centre of the temporarily constructed stage.

The Student Council president did not have a loud voice, but, her words were full of confidence and had a penetrating power.

Fiery red hair, elongated eyes, her beautiful body emitted the cold radiance of a marble statue with a terrifying killing intent. Even the petals dancing in the wind paled in comparison.

Rebecca Randall.

The «Scarlet Empress».

Her red hair, bold personality and unparalleled strength were her attractive points as the school idol of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Even the academy's combat skills instructors could not beat Rebecca on her Maestro Cú Chulainn.<ref>An Irish mythological hero. Do google it if you are interested.</ref> When talking about the strongest student of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy, 99 percent of the students would immediately think of Rebecca.

"The weather is great today—, sorry, I don't want to talk about such nonsense."

The students on the field lowered their heads snickering. "The weather is great today" was the principal's pet phrase, but the festival was an event held by the Student Council, thus, the principal did not have to go on stage to deliver a speech.

"Students of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy; Not only is the Aries Dragon Riding Festival a sports competition… It is also Ansarivan's fine tradition with the results of the race included in the official records. Since you all have decided to participate in the race then you should aim to stand on the victory podium.<ref>The place medalists in sports competitions stand on when they received their medals.</ref> However. I'm aware that fine tradition and official records are not enough as reasons to motivate you to achieve victory."

The students started snickering again, but the snickering stopped quickly.

"So I decided to award the winner a day-long date ticket as a prize. As for the person you are dating, that will be me. Rebecca Randall."

The moment Rebecca finished speaking… Cheers immediately arose from the students.

"Silence!" Rebecca roared.

Instantly. The students were quiet like before the announcement.

"Next would be a speech by the representative of the participants. Advanced Course first-year… Princess Silvia Lautreamont."

At Rebecca's signal a female student's figure appeared at the other side of the stage.

Ash subconsciously clenched his fists.

"The princess is actually the representative of the participants......!"

Silvia's dazzling golden hair was tied up at the back of her head. Wearing a Dragsuit with the royal coat of arms sewn on it, she leaped off her pal— Maestro Lancelot<ref>One of the Knights of the Round Table in the Arthurian legend</ref> and slowly walked up the stage.

The Lautreamont Knights royal family's fourth princess Silvia.

The «Ice Blue Princess».

She was the daughter of the ruler of Lautreamont Knight Country and who also holds the title of Paladin.

Ash, whose pal still had not been born after such a long time, had always borrowed the pals of other students during practical examinations.

Otherwise, he would have been retained for the year.

To other students, riding other people's pals was suicide; But to Ash, not only was it not dangerous, it was something natural to him.

No matter how short-tempered the dragon was, it would obediently allow Ash to ride on its back. Whether was it a Strada, Asia or Hydra,<ref>Literally water dragon</ref> he could control it with ease.

Unknowingly, Ash's reputation increased with the title of "Genius Dragon Tamer", he was rapidly becoming a famous figure of the academy.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v1 027.jpg|thumb]]

He remembered… That accident happened a few days ago.

Ash borrowed Raymond's pal Brigid to participate in dragonback combat training. Being skilled in combat… Ash defeated his classmates one by one in a short time.

It would be a lie to say that he did not feel proud of that.

Concentrated on combat training, Ash did not notice Lancelot walking behind him at that moment.

Not only was physical contact between dragons very dangerous, it was also a situation the academy did its best to avoid.

Everytime before class. The instructor would always patiently remind them.

Fortunately, Brigid's butt only bumped gently into Lancelot's left leg. Both dragon and rider did not suffer any injuries. However, Ash's presumptuous actions infuriated Silvia.

"What do you take combat training for? If you come to the lesson thinking that it is just a game… You will get into trouble sooner or later!"

Other than her special status… Silvia's strict and hardline way of dealing with things was one of the reasons for her being one of the academy's famous people.

Her serious attitude in class and her feat of letting Lancelot grow into a Maestro in only a short time undoubtedly gained her the admiration of many. Her unreasonable demeanor, on the other hand, was widely criticized.

Everyone acknowledged that Silvia was a born beauty but not even one student was willing to be friends with her.

"Urk...... Sorry. It's my fault."

Ash jumped down from Brigid's back and bowed his head respectfully, apologizing.

If this was the usual Silvia she would have calmed down. Facing an opponent who had admitted his mistakes Silvia had always been forgiving. It was said to be one of the knight family's precepts.<ref>Basically a set of principles that family members have to abide by. You usually see this in families with prestigious backgrounds</ref>

However. It was not the same this time.

Silvia, still angry, examined Ash from head to toe, not intending to let him off yet.

"You should think with that pea-sized brain of yours! Who exactly is paying the fees for your schooling, uniform, food, accommodation and teaching materials?"

"......Are you talking about the palace?"

"Of course not, though the palace distributes it, the money used actually comes from people's taxes. If you continue to have that mindset, that this is just a game, then you should just quit school as soon as possible so that you would not continue wasting the hard-earned money of the people!"

"What? Quit school? Are you serious?"

"There is no free lunch in this world. That is one of the Lautreamont family's precepts!"

There was contempt in her ice blue colored eyes. At that moment… Ash realized why Silvia was called the «Ice Blue Princess». There had been almost no points of intersection between Ash's and Silvia's paths during the phase of Basic Course. This was the first contact between the both of them.

Even if she was a princess. Ash's pride did not permit him to give in.

"The Lautreamont family's precepts are none of my business! I have already apologized. What else do you want me to do?"

"This is not a problem that can be solved by just an apology! You still do not have your own pal. Right?"

"Uu......"

A sensitive issue of his own was mentioned and Ash was rendered speechless. It seems Silvia also knew some things about Ash.

"Hmph. Like master, like dragon, maybe it died long ago!"

Hearing that, rage burned in Ash's heart.

"What do you mean by that?"

"Let it be. Ash. She is the princess. You cannot win against her."

Behind him, Raymond tried to stop him but Ash ignored him.

This was not the first time that he suffered such humiliation. It was no wonder that Ash was the target of humiliation from everyone since he still did not have his pal.

If the insults were directed toward him… Ash could still bear with it.

However, if it was an insult directed towards his pal, he would not let that go easily.

Ash would fight back with all his strength till the other party apologizes.

Similar situations having occurred several times, Ash, who should have been the victim, slowly became the problem child in everyone's eyes.

Talking about the most troublesome person in the academy… Ninety-nine percent of the students would think of Advanced Course first-year Ash Blake.

"Take back what you said immediately."

Even if she was the princess of the kingdom… She should not humiliate others as she pleases.

So, Ash took a step forward, having no intention to hide his anger.

The lesson was interrupted. Everyone's attention was on Ash's confrontation with the princess.

=== Part 4 ===
Silvia, who had ascended the makeshift stage, observed the students whom had assembled in the sports field. 

Finally, her blue pupils stopped abruptly at one place. 

“………” 

It was evident where Silvia was looking. She was, obviously, staring at Ash. 

That day… Silvia had not withdrawn her words. If the other party had been a boy, at that time, Ash would’ve clouted him. However, as expected, even if he wanted to, Ash couldn’t hit a girl. Moreover. She was a princess in the palace circle. 

Instead he had, reluctantly, proposed a condition. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> If I am victorious in the race in a few days, you will take back the words you said a while ago! 

Silvia, nonchalantly, had commented: “That would be fine” and agreed. 

That was the answer that Ash wanted. 

Silvia, once she stopped staring at Ash, opened her mouth. 

An icy voice shook the atmosphere, reminding everyone of the winter that had just passed. 

“You must try your best in any competition. That is my family’s motto <nowiki>------</nowiki> no less” 

Silvia then descended quickly from the stage and, riding smartly on Lancelot, returned to the sports field. 

After a few seconds of silence, only a sparse amount of applause arose from the sports field as everyone was taken aback by Silvia’s haughty attitude. 

“What?” 

“It is obvious that Lancelot is the outstanding one… Not his owner.” 

“What is so great about his master?” 

“Wasn't the first paladin originally a knight of the Chevron Kingdom. In other words; 'only just a fortunate soldier' nothing more. Definitely not royal.” 

“As expected of that brother’s sister”<ref>Chinese phrase that basically refers to the fact that brothers and sisters are the same ... something along the lines of that</ref> 

Ash nonchalantly glanced at a few same grade female students, who were murmuring quietly behind him. 

At first, Ash had taken no notice of their conversation, however: 

“That brother’s sister.” 

That part of sentence caught his attention. 

The ‘brother’ that the female students had said, obviously referred to Prince Julius. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> Dragon Slayer Julius. 

Although he was the eldest son of the Knight family he violated the biggest taboo. 

No one knew why he would slay his dragon as he was publicly executed for breaching the taboo before he could disclose his motive. 

To bring his name up at this occasion… Really wasn’t thoughtful. 

Even if he had shamed the Royal Knight Family that was ten years ago. There really wasn’t any good in bringing up these old matters. 

“…… She really doesn’t have an easy life.” 

Ash, suddenly, began to sympathize a little for Silvia’s plight. 

=== Part 5 ===
The competition was about to start. 

The row order of the contestants had been sequenced according to the results of the mock competitions that had occurred during training class. 

Usually the fastest riders were placed at the front. 

However. This year’s dragon riding competition was different. 

The players, who were placed at the front, were now the worst scoring students of the mock competitions. 

Apparently… It was Rebecca’s suggestion; Her reason being that the competition would be more exciting. 

As a result, based on the new rules, Silvia, who had scored top in the mock competitions, had no choice but to be placed in the last row. 

Aside from Silvia. Ash was also in the last row. 

Although the student council had made an exception to the rule to allow him to use another student’s pal, to participate in the competition, just to be fair, his starting position had been purposely positioned in the last row. 

Without doubt, this type of order doubled as a safeguard against a sudden surge of contestants once the race had started. 

Nevertheless, despite these new rules, this situation could be said to be favorable to him. <ref>Chinese phrase. Basically the equivalent of "play into the hands of (Ash)" </ref> 

To be allowed to participate in the competition was already a one in ten thousand chance <ref>In other words, very lucky</ref>. Furthermore, to be placed beside Silvia, was the perfect opportunity to execute their showdown. 

With every minute and second that passed… He gradually became more and more focused <ref>Chinese phrase that literally translates into "retracted his state of mind"</ref>. 

Silvia didn't talk to him. 

Likewise he felt that there wasn’t a need to converse with her. 

Finally the preparations before the race were finished. 

The cheers coming from the audience around the sports field’s boarder had reached a climax. 

All around… A unique sense of tension filled the atmosphere. 

Ash clearly felt his own heartbeat gradually quickening. During the mock competitions he had never felt so nervous. 

“On your marks!” 

Rebecca’s voice emanated from mid-air. 

Clad in a uniform she was riding on her pal’s back. Essentially this was breaching the school rules, however, as today was the annual Dragon Riding Festival, no one had raised that issue. 

Arms akimbo<ref>A human body position in which the hands are on the hips and the elbows are bowed outward. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akimbo</ref> she now stood majestically on top of Cú Chulainn’s head. Her high-spirited heroic bearing immediately attracted everyone’s attention. 

This was her riding position. 

As Cú Chulainn’s body was too big to find a suitable saddle, and also, because she had publicly expressed that she did not want to restrain her beloved pal with a rein and saddle, this evolved into her current unique riding position. 

A suffocating silence enveloped the audience, as she lifted a magic carbine <ref>A carbine is a gun used by horsemen, do Google it!</ref>. 

Only the sound of one’s own heartbeat and the deep breathing of the dragons could be heard. 

“Get set ------” 

The carbine’s muzzle was aimed at the sky. 

Then, when the flash of an Oracle illuminated the horizon, the gun let out an enormous bang. 

Around fifty dragons, at the same time, started to run leaving behind a cloud of dust. 

The Stradas, whose tails a smoke bomb had been tied to, formed into a column and, at the same time, flapped their wings and flew. While that was happening, the smoke from the smoke bombs formed a seven-colored rainbow in the sky. 

=== Part 6 ===
Brigid did not betray Ash’s expectations. After his flawless start he ran flat out… Hot on Lancelot’s tail. As they moved around the academy’s sports field the competitors maintained a distance between each other. 

Then, in the midst of loud cheering, they passed through the school gate that led to the city district. 

“Full speed ahead!” 

At Ash’s urging, Brigid let out a roar. 

Ash intended to, with all his strength, rush through the avenue leading St. Durham Square. 

Maestro Lancelot also possessed an astonishing speed. Within a blink of an eye, he had already overtaken many competitors. 

Brigid tailed closely behind Lancelot’s body, where the effect of air friction was the least, ascending the ranks with him. However, when Lancelot was about to enter a narrow city road, which was connected to St. Durham Square, he suddenly slowed down. 

“……… That’s odd.” 

Ash, who had been following Brigid, raised his head and looked ahead. 

“Them ………!” 

Four competitors, side by side in a row, had obstructed the way ahead. Upon closer inspection, Ash immediately realized that they were the same four female students who had slandered Silvia before the competition. 

Ahead, the narrow city road meandered endlessly, plagued with numerous challenging turns. It seems that until I have exited the city district, I will have to be patient, Ash thought to himself. 

All of a sudden, he grasped their intentions. 

“Those people ………” 

They were probably here to target Silvia. 

Whenever other competitors approached from behind, they would, at once, automatically create a small gap to allow them to pass. 

Bit by bit, Silvia’s ranking was deteriorating. Soon, she, along with Ash, would be last. 

Ash was at a loss. 

Overtaking Silvia wouldn’t be hard. The female students obstructing the way ahead should let him pass. After all. He was a bystander to them so there wasn’t any need to make things hard for him. 

“You people really have taken things too far!” 

Infuriated. Ash couldn’t help but shout at them. 

“Do you really not care?” 

He exclaimed, in a loud voice, as he spurred Brigid to Lancelot’s side. 

Due to the difference in height between the Maestro and Asia Ash had to look up at Silvia. 

In contrast, Silvia glanced down at Ash, her face was etched with contempt. 

“……… There is nothing that can be done about this, whether it is blocking our way or working together, it doesn’t violate the rules of this race.” 

“Now is the time to act noble! Could it be that you aren’t angry at all?” 

“I don’t want to talk to enemies! Go away! It’s none of your business!” 

“You excessively prideful person! No wonder you can’t make any friends!” 

“Y-You! What did you say!” 

Ignoring Silvia’s protests Ash spurred Brigid ahead quickly leaving Lancelot behind and approaching the four female students whom were blocking the way ahead. 

As expected, as soon as one of the four girls noticed him, she promptly shifted over, creating a gap on her right. 

Ash, without looking at any of them, spurred Brigid straight towards the gap that she had created. 

They probably had thought that he was just going to pass through. 

“Fu ……… you are wrong!” 

With a flick of the reins in his hand he used Brigid’s enormous body and immediately moved to squash the female students beside him. 

They were now extremely close together, almost reaching the point of breaking the competition’s rules. 

“Hey, what are you trying to do?” 

One of the girls paled <ref>Chinese phrase 花容失色. 花容 - Literally means flower colour / radiance [And it referrers to a beautiful girl] and 失色 - means to lose colour</ref>, due to fright. 

Due to turmoil caused by Ash the four riders, who had been in an orderly row, were now shortening the distance between themselves. Soon they would collide into each other. 

There was only one option to prevent this; To relinquish their positions. However, if they did so, they would destroy their row formation. 

Without doubt, this was the goal Ash had aimed to achieve, and, after achieving the upper hand, he didn’t overlook the chance to gibe at them: 

“I’m very sorry for the trouble I have caused. This dragon was borrowed from someone and it seems to be a little disobedient!” 

The expression of one of the girls, suddenly changed. 

“You are Ash Blake!” 

Whether it was luck or not, Ash’s name seemed to have an profound effect on them. 

“It’s the Number One Problem Child in the academy!” 

“Uhh! Stay away from me!” 

“Kyaaa!” 

The four female students promptly broke formation and, after a brief period of turmoil, they all fell hopelessly at the side of the road. 

Their high-pitched shrieks, along with the roars of the dragons, reverberated endlessly in the narrow city road. 

Silvia, who had been behind, deftly dodged the female students and dragons, and quickly picked up speed. 

“W-Who told you to meddle in other people’s business!” 

In spite of her brusque tone her cheeks, however, turned slightly red. 

=== Part 7 ===
After leaving the city district, he journeyed north on the main road, arriving at Fianna Forest. 

The forest was also a part of the competition’s course. The skills required were now, were vastly different from the ones needed to navigate through the city roads. 

After just entering the forest, a strange thing happened. 

“……… Brigid?” 

Brigid, who had been tailing Lancelot the whole journey, suddenly slowed down. 

Silvia, obviously, took advantage of this opportunity. In a nick of time she had disappeared. 

“What’s wrong ………?” 

Brigid, finally, stopped walking. 

He was breathing heavily and his expression was one of great pain. 

Ash, now, had finally realized the mistake he had made. 

“I was too careless.” 

While Ash had been preoccupied with following Silvia, he hadn’t noticed that Brigid had run out of stamina. 

From the start Brigid had always maintained the same speed as Lancelot in spite of the difference of stamina between a Maestro and an Asia. Generally, in order to successfully finish the competition, the pace to compete at should have been determined from the stamina of the dragon. 

“………Sorry, Brigid.” 

After he had apologized, Brigid let out a soft snort, as if he was ashamed of his physical strength. 

Now, groups of competitors, bit by bit, had caught up. One by one, they raced past Ash’s side. 

The sound of thunderous rumbling shook the earth as the air filled with dust. 

The sight of a group of Asias running in the forest was spectacular to behold. Ash could sense the ground rocking incessantly. It didn't subside for quite a while. 

Ash’s competition, at his point of time, had concluded. 

Between him and Silvia, a winner had been determined. His goal to force Silvia to take back her words, in the end, wasn’t achieved. 

If this was described as unfortunate, it would be a lie. Ash had really wanted to complete the competition. For the entire time, he had made a bee line for the finish line. 

However, oddly enough, Ash’s mood was rather carefree. 

“It turns out that competing with the princess is quite interesting.” 

No matter how reluctant, he couldn’t deny this fact. 

Then, at this moment<nowiki>------</nowiki> 

A rustling noise, without warning, came from behind. 

“<nowiki>------</nowiki>!” 

Ash instinctively looked back staring at the forest behind him. 

“………Who is it?” 

For safety reasons Ansarivan’s security guards would, during the race, patrol the forest. 

In the forest, to sense another person’s presence, wasn’t something to make a big fuss out of. 

However, whoever it was, hadn’t replied. If it was really a security guard he should have already appeared directly before Ash who had been eliminated. 

Ash heightened his awareness and cautiously surveyed the surroundings. 

Although he hadn’t discovered any suspicious figures he felt as though someone was watching him.
He could feel a sense of foreboding growing within himself. 

“Wait for me here.” 

After leaving Brigid there… Ash walked into the depths of the forest. 

=== Part 8 ===
<noinclude>
Fianna Forest, bordered on the west by Rubina Lake, was located northwest of the city Ansarivan. It’s one of the largest forests within the borders of Lautreamont Knight Country. 

As Ash ran in the forest, so as to not trip over the tree roots that crawled over the earth like a web of intricate blood vessels, he constantly looked down at his feet. 

Then, once again, he sensed the presence of someone else. 

“Found you!” 

Trusting his own intuition, Ash threw a stone at the bushes in front of him. 

The bushes rocked left and right, making a rustling sound. 

“Your intuition is quite keen. It really is one of your talents” 

Stated a voice that possessed both the vitality of youth and the staid of seniority. 

“You are ………?” 

From the bushes, a tall thin man emerged. In his left hand, he held the very stone that Ash had just thrown. 

Though he was dressed in a traveler's garb, which wasn’t out of the ordinary, Ash was shocked into silence. 

This was because that man was wearing a silver colored mask on his face, which covered everything except for his nose and mouth. 

In addition to this, his gleaming sliver hair was streaked through with strands of crimson hair, which brought to mind an image of silver silk slowly shedding blood, as well as the blood used to write cursed scripts. 

In his right hand, he held a black object that emitted light. 

“A mechanical weapon from ……… The Empire<ref>Although the sources don't say so, this 'empire' refers to the Zepharos Empire</ref>?” 

Ash, dumbfounded, stood on the spot unable to move. 

It’s not like he didn’t know about it. 

On the other side of the steep mountain range, lacking the blessing of dragons, the Empire, nevertheless, had a highly developed civilization based on machinery. 

The weapon that the masked man held in his hand probably was the product of mechanical engineering. If he remembered correctly, it was a ‘short machine gun’, a gun that combined the portability of a pistol and the rapid fire of a machine gun. Ash didn’t dare to act rashly. He knew that man could easily, at a moment’s notice, riddle him with so many bullet holes that he would look like a honeycomb. 

Perhaps it was because he had perceived Ash’s wariness… The corners of the man’s mouth twitched faintly upwards. 

“Young man. You are very bright.” 

“You are ……… A soldier of the Empire?” 

“Do I look like one?” 

Ash didn’t know what to decide. 

That object in the man’s hand was a weapon manufactured by the Empire. 

However, that man didn’t have an Empire accent. Instead, he had a strong Chevron Kingdom accent. Aside from that… The way he spoke was highly refined. To be more precise, he was speaking so-called ‘King’s Chevrish’. 

Ash realized that he was in a precarious situation. 

If the masked man was from the Empire… Why would he be lurking around the outskirts of Ansarivan for? 

Maybe he was an Empire spy. 

The Chevron Kingdom and the Zepharos Empire, the two great powers of this continent, had been in a Cold War which had, already, lasted five decades. 

Sandwiched between those two countries, was the Lautreamont Knight Country, the Chevron Kingdom’s child country. 

Initially. The Knight Country was part of the Kingdom<ref>Kingdom here refers to the Chevron Kingdom</ref>, therefore, the relationship between these two countries would, naturally, be much closer than any of their allies. 

Currently, should armed personal from the Empire appear within boarders of Knight Country, this country could, and would, interpret this as a military operation of the Empire. 

However. Ash’s strength was finite. He was definitely incapable of opposing the man before his eyes. 

“Young man, how old are you?” 

The masked man’s unexpected question distracted him for a moment. 

“……… Sixteen. Is there something wrong with that?” 

“That’s strange. Why do you still have larva within you?” 

Ash, astounded, subconsciously retreated a few steps. 

“H-How do you know?” 

“The curse on your body allowed me to clearly perceive that.” 

“Curse ………?” 

Ash frowned. He never would never have expected to hear, from the mouth of a person from the Empire, words so unscientific. 

Unfortunately… He didn’t have the time to ask what those words truly meant. 

“Get away from Milgauss-sama” 

A tender, yet commanding, voice resonated in his ears. 

Reflexively, he looked back and saw a petite figure moving towards him. Then, immediately after pulling an object from its left bracer, the shrill sound of air being sliced sounded by his ear. 

“Argh!” 

Moving his body quickly… Ash awkwardly dodged the surprise attack. A pitch-black serpent passed through the space where his head had been. Actually, upon closer inspection, the pitch-black snake was actually a long whip. The preferred weapon of the Tantalos Tribe. 

Those who master this weapon are said to have an unpredictable attack. Even soldiers armed with swords, guns or cannons weren’t a match. 

Ash dived onto the ground and began to roll, attempting to distance himself. 

Although his attacker was also wearing a mask, from their exposed eyes, he determined that it was most likely a young teenage girl. 

Her beautiful jet-black hair was fixed at the back of her head and, despite her petite stature, her eyes were filled with murderous intent. 

Ash, improvising on the spot, got up from the ground, grabbed a handful of dirt, threw it at the girl, turned and ran. 

“Argh ………!” 

The girl flinched and, for a brief moment, shielded her eyes. Then she began to pursue Ash. 

Ash, sprinting, plunged into a nearby thicket. 

“Damn ……… Why am I so unfortunate!” 

Upon rushing out of the forest his field of vision immediately widened. 

Above him a dazzling blue sky stretched as far as the eye could see forcing him to narrow his eyes. 

Barren rocks, big and small, littered the ground. 

Ash swallowed. This situation wasn’t good. Ahead of him there was a ravine. Its edge was around ten steps away. Ash looked around but couldn’t find a bridge. 

“Obediently accept your fate!” 

The girl appeared from within the forest. 

Ash, with his back to the cliff, confronted her. 

“When did I ever wrong you?” 

“Meeting us. This was your greatest misfortune.” 

The girls tone was flat, lacking any rise or drop in pitch, making her sound emotionless. 

“That’s absurd!” 

“War needs no reason.” 

“Isn’t there an armistice?” 

“Armistice? That nothing more than something we pretend to adhere to. In reality the war between the Empire and the Kingdom hasn’t ended!” 

The girl kicked the ground, and, brandishing the whip in her hand, slowly forced Ash towards the edge of ravine behind him. 

Though Ash scored quite well in the class of fighting techniques, this girl’s movements were too fast. He could only, step by step, retreat backwards. 

In a few more steps, he would fall into the ravine. 

“Hmph ……… I wonder how long you can continue to struggle!” 

She sounded irritated. In fact, she was most likely an impetuous person. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> Now! 

Ash grabbed the end of the whip, which had missed him, and then, with a great pull, broke her balance. 

“Uooo!” 

He grabbed her by her collar and, using her own momentum<ref>Do google Aikido !!!</ref>, hurled her away. Her body traced a parabola in the air. Ash was surprised, as he hadn’t expected her body to be so light. 

“Kawaa!” 

Falling heavily, the girl gave a painful cry and her right hand involuntarily realized the whip. 

“Uguu ………” 

Still conscious… Tears of misery appeared her eyes. Aside from that she was constantly squirming as if in great pain. She probably wouldn’t be able to stand for a quite a while. 

Steading his breathing, Ash slowly extended his right hand towards the mask on her face. He wanted to see what she looked like. Then, just at this moment. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> Bishi! 

A peculiar noise, similar to that of an object fracturing, could be heard. 

“Eh ………?” 

Ash could hardly believe his eyes. 

The outcrop <ref>Exposed bedrock</ref> supporting their weight, unexpectedly, had begun to collapse. 

This was most likely due to a geological fault in the rock. This fight should never have been performed in this kind of location. Then he noticed it… A warning sign labelled “Beware of Collapse”. 

“Ku ………!” 

Ash had no time to ponder. He lifted the girl and threw her forwards. 

She landed safely on a stable piece of outcrop. 

However, in doing so, he didn’t have enough time to escape. Instead he fell, along with the rocky debris, into the ravine. 

“Aaaaaaaaaaaaah!” 

The immense drag of the wind almost tore his skin. 

Ash was scared of falling into a bottomless ravine. Then, at this moment, he felt his left wrist heat up. 

“Eh ………?” 

A flash of light burst through his clothing. The «Seikoku», which extended from his elbow to his wrist, suddenly began to emit heat and scarlet light. 

The shrill sound of the wind was silenced. 

In fact, all sound was silenced. 

“Ugh ………!” 

Ash felt an excruciating pain within his chest, as if it was being torn in half, as though something was trying to break out of his body. 

The pain almost caused him to lose consciousness. 

While bearing the pain, he looked down at his chest and found that it was exuding a dazzling radiance. 

“Guaaaaaaaaaaaah!” 

Ash gave a great scream as his consciousness gradually began to fade. 

However, within his hazy vision, he saw something clearly. 

A girl was floating in mid-air. 

Completely naked. 

With her eyes tightly closed and her arms open she floated next to him. 

Subconsciously… Ash reached out with both his hands towards her petite body. 

She slid with no resistance into his arms. 

Around them a blinding light had, unbeknownst to them, enveloped their bodies. 

Not only that, but their descent had slowed down. 

Hugging the girl, Ash slowly floated down, like one would within a child’s fairy tale. 

Before long… They landed on a rock beside a creek. 

The ball of light, which had protected them, instantly turned into countless particles and disappeared without a trace. 

“Am I safe now ………?” 

Ash mumbled to himself as he looked down at the girl in his arms. 

The breathing of the girl, whose eyes were still closed, sounded rather peaceful. 

“Uwaa!” 

Ash felt a little ardent as he realized that the girl was naked. 

Her dainty figure, along with her slightly bulging chest, and her smooth and delicate white skin was definitely something that was hardly ever seen within this world. In fact. It gave rise to the illusion of an angel descending into the world of mortals. 

Her age was probably around fourteen or fifteen. 

Gently laying her on the ground, Ash swiftly took off the coat of his Dragsuit.[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v1 055.jpg|thumb]] 

With just his coat he was able to sufficiently cover her petite body. 

“Fuu ………” 

With this done Ash, feeling relieved, sat on the ground. 

Yet again, he looked at the face of the girl. 

“Could she be ……… Navi?” 

Within his mind, an image of the girl who had, since the start of this week, been teasing him within his dreams, surfaced. 

“No. you are similar for sure ……… But still a little different.” 

To draw an analogy Navi would be a succubus from a Gothic novel with a face that retained the innocence, of childhood and yet also possessing the charm of a mature woman. 

On the other hand… The girl before his eyes was just a girl. Ash couldn’t feel any mature charm from her. 

“……… eh?” 

Ash frowned. Something small, circular and ivory colored, protruded from top left and right of sides her head. 

“What is this?” 

With his fingertips Ash gently probed the mysterious protrusions. 

It was soft and a little flexible and seemed to be made of some kind of cartilage. 

The mysterious protrusions had a peculiar feel to it, making him want to touch it again after first touching it. However. Ash resisted the urges to touch it again as it would be impolite. 

Looks like those mysterious protrusions weren’t accessories but part of her body. 

“Could it be ……… horns?” 

The little protrusions on top of her head, indeed, seemed to be identical to the horns of a young dragon. 

Ash couldn’t help but recall the details of the events, that had happen prior to now, in his mind. 

The girl had emerged out of his body and she had two horns growing from top left and right sides of her head. 

As a result, there could only be one conclusion. 

“……… this young girl is my pal?” 

Ash was dumbfounded. 

He had always wished to rouse his pal from sleep, however, why was his pal a girl when everyone else’s were dragons? 

“Uuu ………nnn ………” 

The girl’s long eyelashes quivered a little. 

“Huwaaa ………” 

The girl, in contrast to her beautiful appearance, gave a great yawn. 

One of her double eyelids slowly began to open. 

Ash, subconsciously, leaned forwards and looked at her face. 

Her ruby colored pupils were very fascinating. 

Bleary eyed, she suddenly opened her eyes wide and her facial expression became one of shock. 

“Hugiyaaaaaaaa!” 

“Oooof!” 

Ash, receiving a slap on his cheek, fell backwards and his head became immersed in the creek. 

Fortunately, the stream wasn’t deep, so aside from his sorry figure, he wasn’t hurt. 

“S-Such great strength ………” 

With blood trickling from his nose… Ash struggled to get up. 

“To go so far as to take advantage of a sleeping lady really is too much! Don’t you know who I am?” 

Blushing hard she suddenly stood up. 

The jacket that Ash had draped over her body, slid off. 

Her dainty naked body was clearly visible. 

However, she made no move to cover herself. 

“P-Please put on your clothes first before you talk!” 

Ash quickly looked away. 

“Clothes? Ridiculous! Clothes are just items humans create to hide their ugliness.” 

“What?” 

“That’s right. A proper dragon doesn’t need clothes!” 

“I don’t care whether you need clothes or not! Just put them on!” 

After saying that Ash turned his back on her. 

“I know that you are a dragon! Well ……… Strictly speaking I’m not sure. However, even if you’re a dragon, right now, you are a girl!” 

“So what?” 

“That ……… naked girl standing in front of me ……… is making me lose my calm” 

“Hmph! Such a useless guy. Like I said, humans are really <nowiki>------</nowiki>” 

At this moment, a strong gust of wind blew through the ravine. 

Though it was now spring, it still felt chilly when a gust of wind blew on the body. 

“A ……Ahchoo!” 

Compared to her arrogant attitude just then… Her sneeze was extremely cute. 

After her sneeze an unimaginably huge gust of wind headed towards Ash. 

“Uoo!” 

Immediately Ash clung onto the rock next to him and, like this, prevented himself from getting blown away. 

“A dragons’ sneeze is, it turns out to be, quite formidable ………” 

After calming himself down, with his back towards the girl, Ash proceeded to defend his opinion: 

“You’re right… Clothes do make people look better. However, apart from that, they also protect against the cold!” 

“Muuu ………” 

The girl pouted as if she didn’t quite agree with Ash’s point. However, in the end, she accepted his opinion. 

Before long, there was a rustling sound. 

Cautiously turning his head around, Ash saw that she had obediently put on the jacket. 

As her body was very petite, just the jacket was enough to cover her important parts. However, her legs were still exposed. 

Her white tender thighs caused Ash to hold his breath. Wearing just a male jacket, her current appearance, compared when she was naked, caused one to fantasize even more. 

After directing his gaze away from her thighs Ash sighed a few times. 

“There is something I want to confirm. You should be the dragon that was within me.” 

“Strictly speaking. I was only temporarily borrowing your body.” 

“Weren’t you within my body for too long? I’ve already become a first year Advanced Course student!” 

“What did you say?” 

The girl eyed Ash with an ominous glint in her eyes. 

Her expression, as sharp as a sword, rested on Ash’s chest. 

“N-Nothing ………” 

Ash, a little overwhelmed by the girl’s reaction, could only reply like this. 

“I am not an ordinary dragon. Do not lump me with the others.” 

“Whaa?” 

Clearly displeased, the girl planted both her hands on her hips and looked at Ash. 

“Listen carefully, I do not think that you think that you are my master at all! Who cares about the secret agreement of Albion ………” 

Ash was a little surprised when the girl mentioned that historical term. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki>The secret agreement of Albion 

Long ago, confronted with the crisis of extinction, the dragons stipulated a treaty with humans who wanted their magic. 

“……… That being said, you and I share a common destiny. Although you cannot see it, we are bound together by an invisible thread.” 

What she was talking about was probably the so-called Astral Flow. 

“After combining with humans dragons are able to get a supply of the Astral. As a result. Dragons obtained the strength to survive thus overcoming the crisis of extinction.” 

This knowledge was taught during the Basic Course. The Astral was something similar to “qi”<ref>Look it up here! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qi</ref> and was the source of greatly-needed strength. 

The history of the dragons was far longer than that of humans. With each new generation, the Astral contained within their bodies decreased. 

Due to the lack of the Astral, before becoming fully grown, many young dragons died prematurely. 

If young dragons were unable to mature into adult dragons, sooner or later, dragons would go down the path of extinction. 

Concerned by the current situation the dragons decided to combine with certain humans, who possessed the most Astral Flow, thus avoiding extinction. 

“Quite so. However, even so, I don’t believe the dragons owe humans one. Instead, humans should feel honored.” 

“No. Shouldn’t you, at least, feel a little thankful?” 

Having just finished saying that… Ash’s abdomen received a blow from the girl’s elbow. 

“Gah!” 

“By the way …” 

After glancing at Ash, who was writhing in pain, the girl, thinking about something, suddenly turned away. Her vigor, that she had displayed just then, disappeared and was replaced by bashfulness and embarrassment. 

“M-My name ……” 

“Ehh?” 

Ash, puzzled, frowned. The girl turned a shade of bright red and shouted. 

“My, …… name, my name! Give me a name! T-This is a, somewhat, very important thing!” 

“Do you really want me to give you a name?” 

“It can’t be helped! Although I don’t approve of the secret agreement of Albion, I too, cannot break the rules! You must give me a name for the contract to be complete!” 

“Is that so? The dragons also have so many difficult rules.” 

“I-I don’t need things like your sympathy!” 

Faced with the girls extremely attitude, Ash made a bitter smile. 

“If that’s how it’s going to go, relax. I have already thought of your name” 

Ever since he had become a Breeder, he had always remembered this name. 

“Your name is Eco” 

Compared to Lancelot and Cú Chulainn, it was a little out of fashion. However, it was a rather historical name, frequently appearing in historical or religious textbooks. 

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 1 Chapter 1

2014-01-26T01:35:48Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases.

{{Incomplete}}

== Chapter 1 - Eco the Dragon Girl ==
=== Part 1 ===

Ash's body shuddered. He clearly felt the presence of someone sneaking into his room and crawling onto the bed.

—''You aren't letting me off tonight, too''......?

In the pitch black darkness… The girl's hair and skin had a piercingly cold radiance.

The full moon outside the window overhanging the horizon.

Ash remembered clearly that he had closed the curtains before sleeping.

"Fufu...... It's a beautiful night. Don't you think so?"

The girl looked at Ash disdainfully with the eyes of a conqueror. Her lips showed a bewitching smile.

"Uuu!"

Ash, who was lying on the bed, suddenly could not move.

The girl had sat on Ash's abdomen with her legs spread out. Instead of oppression, Ash could feel warmth coming from the part of his abdomen that was in contact with the lower half of the girl's body.

A faint aroma permeated the room.

What a bewitchingly beautiful girl.

She had waist-long pink hair with a silver shine, snow-white skin and ruby-coloured eyes.

She was only wearing the bare minimum of clothes and was almost naked.

The two big bulges on her chest in front of Ash's face shook slightly.

On each side of her head grew a horn that was no different from a dragon's.

"Who are you? Why are you always...... Uuuuu!"

Ash's question was forcefully interrupted. The upper half of the girl's body slowly approached and hugged Ash tightly.

Her white and smooth skin came into contact with Ash's body with nothing in between.

Her luscious lips whispered into Ash's ear.

"I will also dote on you well tonight."

After letting out a hot breath of air… The girl nibbled Ash's earlobe. <nowiki>*</nowiki>Kaa—* The sound was similar to that of biting the ear's bone.

“N-no...... Don't do that......!"

Ash's body trembled non-stop as if struck by lightning.

The girl greedily devoured Ash's body. Neck, chest, waist, arms…… The numbness of his skin from her tender tongue and sparkling teeth sliding across the skin almost made Ash lose his mind.

Tonight, as usual, the girl shifted her body as she pleased while maintaining that position. It was like a dance.

It's been seven days since the appearance of the mysterious girl.

The girl, who appeared at Ash's bedside every night, spending every moment teasing him playfully.

Who on earth is she?

And what motive does she have?

Why are there two horns growing on her head?

The girl never answered questions.

She always danced on Ash's body and left slowly taking light steps.

The girl's teasing was in full force. Ash would always end up lying on the bed exhausted after the ordeal. Currently sitting by the window, the girl was lifting her slender and beautiful legs with a composed expression.

According to his experience from the past six days. The girl was now going to disappear right before Ash's eyes.

—''After all, this is only a dream''......

When he next opens his eyes… He would be seeing the usual morning.

At least, it has been so for the past six days.

"My name is Navi."

Ash was shocked from suddenly hearing a name that he did not recognise.

This was the first time hearing the girl say her own name.

Ash gathered the last bit of his strength and barely managed to lift up the upper part of his body.

"Navi...... Who are you? Why are you doing this?"

"To entrust myself, who is about to be born soon, to you…… Consider it a form of ritual."

"I don't get what you mean."

"See you, until next time, when we meet in real life!"

Navi's figure became countless silver particles and disappeared in the bright moonlight.

=== Part 2 ===
<nowiki>*</nowiki>—Dong*

At dawn… Ash was abruptly woken up by the sound of a large cannon being fired.

A few seconds later… He then realised that the huge sound was actually from the releasing of fireworks using Oracles.

Ash was at Apollo House.

The dormitory where male students of the Advanced Course<ref>There seems to be another name for the courses such as Yunios for Basic Course as seen in the manga, since my raws used the terms "Basic Course" and "Advanced Course", I shall leave it be</ref> lived at.

A few months earlier, after completing three years of basic courses, Ash had successfully become a first-year student of the Advanced Course and earned the qualification to live in Apollo House.

The biggest difference between Apollo House and other dormitories was the one-person, one-room system. Compared to the past whereby three people had to squeeze into one small room, life in Apollo House was like heaven.

"Uuu...... It's cold!"

Ash's shoulders shivered the moment he got out of bed.

The dawn of an early spring morning still carried a deep chill. Bearing with it the impulse to rush back into bed… Ash pulled open the curtains.

Ash's room was on the third floor. One could see the whole field by standing at the window.

On this dawn; There were many students in the field carrying out preparation work for the "celebration". There were also a lot of riders on their dragons.

Teams of Stradas<ref>Literally air/winged dragon (second interpretation was from my translation from Chinese), the only dragons other than Maestros that can fly</ref> swept across the horizon. It was in preparation for the celebration that was about to start.

The giant lizards running back and forth on the field were the brilliant Asias.<ref>Literally land/earth dragon, it's pronounced as "Aahsia" instead of the way we pronounce the name of that particular continent</ref>

"It is about to start."

The large field was shrouded in a mysterious and unusual atmosphere. Ash started to get nervous.

"Yo, Ash! Time to get up!"

At that moment… Ash heard his friend's voice accompanied by the sound of door knocking.

"Raymond? Give me a moment!"

Ash frantically took out the bandage roll from the first-aid box.

He wrapped the bandage around his left hand to cover up the «Seikoku»<ref>"星刻", literally star-marked/carved</ref> on his arm.

The pattern on his arm was the proof of a Breeder.

At the age of seven; Ash took part in the «Orphan Ceremony» held in Albion Forest and had a dragon larva put in his body.

Unfortunately, Ash's memories of that time were foggy with a lot of parts missing.

Since he obtained the «Seikoku», by logic, he should have seen Mother Dragon within the deep parts of the forest. However. Ash did not even have the slightest impression of having any memories of that scene.

''I really messed up'', Ash thought in self-mockery.

Compared to other students, the «Seikoku» pattern on Ash's arm was especially big.

Similar to a tattoo, of unique design, it extended from his elbow to his wrist like a jet-black snake.

"...... Sorry to keep you waiting."

Finished with wrapping up… Ash opened the door to his room.

His good friend, Raymond Kirkland, was standing at the door with a hearty smile.

"The bandage again? Why don't you try something new?"

"Hmph. A normal person like you won't understand my feelings at all."

Ash was displeased. Raymond could not help but shake his head with a bitter smile.

"Sorry. It's my fault...... Hnn? Your face is red. Do you have a fever?"

"No. Actually...... I've had weird dreams for the past week."

"Weird dreams? What kind of weird dreams?"

"A beautiful girl crawled into my bed. Then… She did a lot of things……"

It was really embarrassing to speak about this sort of things. Ash blushed while recounting what happened.

Raymond could not resist laughing.

"Are you ''that'' desperate for a girl? That is too exaggerated!"

"Are ''you'' any better? We are in the same situation!"

"Nonono. I am different from you. It's not that I'm not popular with the ladies; It's just that I have not yet found someone suited for me."

Raymond took out a small mirror and started admiring himself.

Almost all the students of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy knew that Raymond had severe narcissism. To be fair… Everyone acknowledged that Raymond was a handsome young man. However. People did not dare to get close to him because his personality destroyed the great first impression he gave due to his looks. It was like ruining your own image the moment you speak.<ref>This is a more literal translation of the expression used</ref>

"...... What are you visiting me for so early in the morning?"

Ash said unhappily. Raymond walked into the room as if that did not concern him.

"Did you forget? The competition that we're looking forward to for so long starts today. Speaking of the competition… You must not forget about flirting with girls!"

"What has flirting got to do with the competition? You should also get out there and enter the competition!"

The righteous Ash raised his volume, but, Raymond countered with an evil smile.

"If I didn't remember wrongly… You should be the first Advanced Course student, since the founding of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy, to still have the larva in his body?"

"Uuu......"

Even if he did not wish for it to be so… Ash could not deny that fact. That's right, Ash's dragon companion was still sleeping in his body without a single sign of waking up.

There was not a single change since that year when he was chosen to be a Breeder at the age of seven.

To the students of Ansarivan; Rousing the dragons, growing within their bodies, from slumber was their most basic mission.

Other students had obtained their pals in the first year of basic lessons. All except Ash.

—Pal.

This was a very sacred word… Representing "the dragon nurtured by the Breeder himself". A larva still sleeping within the Breeder's body cannot be addressed as 'pal'.

"Ash, to participate in today's competition, you seem to need something?"

"Yeah, I need a dragon."

"That's right. So. Do you want to borrow my pal?"

Raymond's pal was called Brigid.

Borrowing Brigid was, of course, one of the options Ash was considering. Actually, Ash already knew that Raymond was planning to skip the competition this time.

However. Just accepting Raymond's suggestion like that really hurt Ash's dignity so Ash decided to refuse tactfully.

"I can also borrow Arianrhod<ref>A goddess from Celtic mythology, "arian" meaning silver and "rhod" meaning wheel, many names used in the series are related to Arthurian legends or myths of the same culture</ref> from Max. He's a member of the Student Council and thus cannot take part in the competition."

Student Council members made up the executive committee for the competition and were unable to participate. Max also stated clearly his intention of not participating in the competition.

"You're too naive, Ash. Do you think that Max would lend you his pal?"

"What is it about me?" Max was there leaning on the side of the door in perfectly good condition.

"Uohh!"

Raymond jumped in surprise. Turning around.

"Good morning. Max."

Ignoring Ash's greeting… Max silently adjusted the position of his glasses with his hand.

Maximillian Russell, Ash's classmate, honour student bestowed the title of Dragner by the Paladin and also the Student Council's treasurer.

"You two being so noisy early in the morning… What happened?"

"Ash was crying and begging me to lend him Brigid to participate in the competition."

"Who's crying and begging you?! Max. Can you lend me your Arianrhod? It's just for today."

Yes, for a particular reason, Ash had to participate in today's competition no matter what.

"You want to borrow my pal? In your next life."<ref>Chinese expression meaning that it is impossible to do or achieve it.</ref>

"There's no need to be so ruthless. Right?"

"Let's not discuss about this matter for the moment......"

Max sized up Ash with his sharp eyes.

"You should see for yourself the state this room is in! Didn't I remind you again and again that you must keep your own room clean?"

The overbearing Max walked into the room with big strides and immediately started cleaning. Ever since moving into Apollo House… There has never been a day when Ash's room was clean and neat.

"This scene sure brings back memories."

Gazing at Max working hard at cleaning, Raymond could not help but shake his head with a bitter smile.

—Ash, Raymond, Max.

When they were still Basic Course students, they had gone through many sentimental times together at Merk<ref>Couldn't really find a name with a mythological reference, so I chose one that had Scottish links, do tell me if you found the right name that sounds the same</ref> House. At that time, having a room to yourself was still a faraway dream and the three of them had to squeeze into a small room. Ash and Raymond had a hard time dealing with Max who was a neat freak almost to the point of it being an illness.

"......I have always wondered."

Done with cleaning, Max turned around and looked at Ash.

"Why can you ride other people's pals?"

"Well...... How should I say this......"

"By logic; Dragons only allow their own masters to ride them. There have been many Breeders in the past who have tried riding other people's dragons but they all failed."

"That is indeed true, but, I have obtained consent from the teacher, so it should be all right?"

"Why are you still so indecisive when doing things, just like in the past? Sigh. If you really intend to participate in the competition… Just borrow Brigid. I'll inform the Student Council president."

Ending with that authoritative tone Max left without turning back.

"I wonder who's the one that hasn't changed at all."

Raymond once again shook his head. This time with a bitter smile.

Ash suddenly drew close to Raymond.

"You will lend me Brigid… Right?"

Raymond nodded his head with his eyes having a peculiar glow.

"Of course. You must make the princess change her impression of you!"

Hearing that, Ash's expression instantly became serious.

"I have that intention too."

=== Part 3 ===

The grand fireworks were dazzling.

There was a tense atmosphere in the academy accompanied by excitement in the air.

The "race" Raymond spoke of was one of the names it was commonly known by. The official name was "Aries Dragon Riding Festival". An annual grand event held in the month of Aries (fourth month).<ref>The names of months in the story are taken from the names of the horoscopes in order.</ref>

It was also a springtime activity held by Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Ash, having changed into a Dragsuit,<ref>Term for the clothes worn when riding a dragon</ref> arrived at the academy's sports field.

It was a cloudless sunny day and was decent weather suitable for a race.

Many students on dragons had already gathered on the sports field.

By a rough estimate… There should be over fifty people.

Ash was riding on Brigid, which he borrowed from Raymond, using the reins in his hands to guide Brigid towards the middle of the field.

"You're in a good mood today, Brigid."

Brigid replied to Ash's greeting with a low cry like a spoiled child.

Brigid was an Asia fancied by Ash. Having four greatly developed legs and no wings Brigid did not look like a dragon but more like the larger types of lizards.

Cheers suddenly arose from the students on the field.

"A good morning to all students."

The radiant Student Council president appeared at the centre of the temporarily constructed stage.

The Student Council president did not have a loud voice, but, her words were full of confidence and had a penetrating power.

Fiery red hair, elongated eyes, her beautiful body emitted the cold radiance of a marble statue with a terrifying killing intent. Even the petals dancing in the wind paled in comparison.

Rebecca Randall.

The «Scarlet Empress».

Her red hair, bold personality and unparalleled strength were her attractive points as the school idol of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.

Even the academy's combat skills instructors could not beat Rebecca on her Maestro Cú Chulainn.<ref>An Irish mythological hero. Do google it if you are interested.</ref> When talking about the strongest student of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy, 99 percent of the students would immediately think of Rebecca.

"The weather is great today—, sorry, I don't want to talk about such nonsense."

The students on the field lowered their heads snickering. "The weather is great today" was the principal's pet phrase, but the festival was an event held by the Student Council, thus, the principal did not have to go on stage to deliver a speech.

"Students of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy; Not only is the Aries Dragon Riding Festival a sports competition… It is also Ansarivan's fine tradition with the results of the race included in the official records. Since you all have decided to participate in the race then you should aim to stand on the victory podium.<ref>The place medalists in sports competitions stand on when they received their medals.</ref> However. I'm aware that fine tradition and official records are not enough as reasons to motivate you to achieve victory."

The students started snickering again, but the snickering stopped quickly.

"So I decided to award the winner a day-long date ticket as a prize. As for the person you are dating, that will be me. Rebecca Randall."

The moment Rebecca finished speaking… Cheers immediately arose from the students.

"Silence!" Rebecca roared.

Instantly. The students were quiet like before the announcement.

"Next would be a speech by the representative of the participants. Advanced Course first-year… Princess Silvia Lautreamont."

At Rebecca's signal a female student's figure appeared at the other side of the stage.

Ash subconsciously clenched his fists.

"The princess is actually the representative of the participants......!"

Silvia's dazzling golden hair was tied up at the back of her head. Wearing a Dragsuit with the royal coat of arms sewn on it, she leapt off her pal— Maestro Lancelot<ref>One of the Knights of the Round Table in the Arthurian legend</ref> and slowly walked up the stage.

The Lautreamont Knights royal family's fourth princess Silvia.

The «Ice Blue Princess».

She was the daughter of the ruler of Lautreamont Knight Country and who also holds the title of Paladin.

Ash, whose pal still had not been born after such a long time, had always borrowed the pals of other students during practical examinations.

Otherwise, he would have been retained for the year.

To other students, riding other people's pals was suicide; But to Ash, not only was it not dangerous, it was something natural to him.

No matter how short-tempered the dragon was, it would obediently allow Ash to ride on its back. Whether was it a Strada, Asia or Hydra,<ref>Literally water dragon</ref> he could control it with ease.

Unknowingly, Ash's reputation increased with the title of "Genius Dragon Tamer", he was rapidly becoming a famous figure of the academy.
[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v1 027.jpg|thumb]]

He remembered… That accident happened a few days ago.

Ash borrowed Raymond's pal Brigid to participate in dragonback combat training. Being skilled in combat… Ash defeated his classmates one by one in a short time.

It would be a lie to say that he did not feel proud of that.

Concentrated on combat training, Ash did not notice Lancelot walking behind him at that moment.

Not only was physical contact between dragons very dangerous, it was also a situation the academy did its best to avoid.

Everytime before class. The instructor would always patiently remind them.

Fortunately, Brigid's butt only bumped gently into Lancelot's left leg. Both dragon and rider did not suffer any injuries. However, Ash's presumptuous actions infuriated Silvia.

"What do you take combat training for? If you come to the lesson thinking that it is just a game… You will get into trouble sooner or later!"

Other than her special status… Silvia's strict and hardline way of dealing with things was one of the reasons for her being one of the academy's famous people.

Her serious attitude in class and her feat of letting Lancelot grow into a Maestro in only a short time undoubtedly gained her the admiration of many. Her unreasonable demeanour, on the other hand, was widely criticised.

Everyone acknowledged that Silvia was a born beauty but not even one student was willing to be friends with her.

"Urk...... Sorry. It's my fault."

Ash jumped down from Brigid's back and bowed his head respectfully, apologising.

If this was the usual Silvia she would have calmed down. Facing an opponent who had admitted his mistakes Silvia had always been forgiving. It was said to be one of the knight family's precepts.<ref>Basically a set of principles that family members have to abide by. You usually see this in families with prestigious backgrounds</ref>

However. It was not the same this time.

Silvia, still angry, examined Ash from head to toe, not intending to let him off yet.

"You should think with that pea-sized brain of yours! Who exactly is paying the fees for your schooling, uniform, food, accommodation and teaching materials?"

"......Are you talking about the palace?"

"Of course not, though the palace distributs it,
the money used actually comes from people's taxes. If you continue to have that mindset, that this is just a game, then you should just quit school as soon as possible so that you would not continue wasting the hard-earned money of the people!"

"What? Quit school? Are you serious?"

"There is no free lunch in this world. That is one of the Lautreamont family's precepts!"

There was contempt in her ice blue coloured eyes. At that moment… Ash realised why Silvia was called the «Ice Blue Princess». There had been almost no points of intersection between Ash's and Silvia's paths during the phase of Basic Course. This was the first contact between the both of them.

Even if she was a princess. Ash's pride did not permit him to give in.

"The Lautreamont family's precepts are none of my business! I have already apologised. What else do you want me to do?"

"This is not a problem that can be solved by just an apology! You still do not have your own pal. Right?"

"Uu......"

A sensitive issue of his own was mentioned and Ash was rendered speechless. It seems Silvia also knew some things about Ash.

"Hmph. Like master, like dragon, maybe it died long ago!"

Hearing that, rage burned in Ash's heart.

"What do you mean by that?"

"Let it be. Ash. She is the princess. You cannot win against her."

Behind him, Raymond tried to stop him but Ash ignored him.

This was not the first time that he suffered such humiliation. It was no wonder that Ash was the target of humiliation from everyone since he still did not have his pal.

If the insults were directed toward him… Ash could still bear with it.

However, if it was an insult directed towards his pal, he would not let that go easily.

Ash would fight back with all his strength till the other party apologises.

Similar situations having occurred several times, Ash, who should have been the victim, slowly became the problem child in everyone's eyes.

Talking about the most troublesome person in the academy… Ninety-nine percent of the students would think of Advanced Course first-year Ash Blake.

"Take back what you said immediately."

Even if she was the princess of the kingdom… She should not humiliate others as she pleases.

So, Ash took a step forward, having no intention to hide his anger.

The lesson was interrupted. Everyone's attention was on Ash's confrontation with the princess.

=== Part 4 ===
Silvia, who had ascended the makeshift stage, observed the students whom had assembled in the sports field. 

Finally, her blue pupils stopped abruptly at one place. 

“………” 

It was evident where Silvia was looking. She was, obviously, staring at Ash. 

That day… Silvia had not withdrawn her words. If the other party had been a boy, at that time, Ash would’ve clouted him. However, as expected, even if he wanted to, Ash couldn’t hit a girl. Moreover. She was a princess in the palace circle. 

Instead he had, reluctantly, proposed a condition. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> If I am victorious in the race in a few days, you will take back the words you said a while ago! 

Silvia, nonchalantly, had commented: “That would be fine” and agreed. 

That was the answer that Ash wanted. 

Silvia, once she stopped staring at Ash, opened her mouth. 

An icy voice shook the atmosphere, reminding everyone of the winter that had just passed. 

“You must try your best in any competition. That is my family’s motto <nowiki>------</nowiki> no less” 

Silvia then descended quickly from the stage and, riding smartly on Lancelot, returned to the sports field. 

After a few seconds of silence, only a sparse amount of applause arose from the sports field as everyone was taken aback by Silvia’s haughty attitude. 

“What?” 

“It is obvious that Lancelot is the outstanding one… Not his owner.” 

“What is so great about his master?” 

“Wasn't the first paladin originally a knight of the Chevron Kingdom. In other words; 'only just a fortunate soldier' nothing more. Definitely not royal.” 

“As expected of that brother’s sister”<ref>Chinese phrase that basically refers to the fact that brothers and sisters are the same ... something along the lines of that</ref> 

Ash nonchalantly glanced at a few same grade female students, who were murmuring quietly behind him. 

At first, Ash had taken no notice of their conversation, however: 

“That brother’s sister.” 

That part of sentence caught his attention. 

The ‘brother’ that the female students had said, obviously referred to Prince Julius. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> Dragon Slayer Julius. 

Although he was the eldest son of the Knight family he violated the biggest taboo. 

No one knew why he would slay his dragon as he was publicly executed for breaching the taboo before he could disclose his motive. 

To bring his name up at this occasion… Really wasn’t thoughtful. 

Even if he had shamed the Royal Knight Family that was ten years ago. There really wasn’t any good in bringing up these old matters. 

“…… She really doesn’t have an easy life.” 

Ash, suddenly, began to sympathize a little for Silvia’s plight. 

=== Part 5 ===
The competition was about to start. 

The row order of the contestants had been sequenced according to the results of the mock competitions that had occurred during training class. 

Usually the fastest riders were placed at the front. 

However. This year’s dragon riding competition was different. 

The players, who were placed at the front, were now the worst scoring students of the mock competitions. 

Apparently… It was Rebecca’s suggestion; Her reason being that the competition would be more exciting. 

As a result, based on the new rules, Silvia, who had scored top in the mock competitions, had no choice but to be placed in the last row. 

Aside from Silvia. Ash was also in the last row. 

Although the student council had made an exception to the rule to allow him to use another student’s pal, to participate in the competition, just to be fair, his starting position had been purposely positioned in the last row. 

Without doubt, this type of order doubled as a safeguard against a sudden surge of contestants once the race had started. 

Nevertheless, despite these new rules, this situation could be said to be favorable to him. <ref>Chinese phrase. Basically the equivalent of "play into the hands of (Ash)" </ref> 

To be allowed to participate in the competition was already a one in ten thousand chance <ref>In other words, very lucky</ref>. Furthermore, to be placed beside Silvia, was the perfect opportunity to execute their showdown. 

With every minute and second that passed… He gradually became more and more focused <ref>Chinese phrase that literally translates into "retracted his state of mind"</ref>. 

Silvia didn't talk to him. 

Likewise he felt that there wasn’t a need to converse with her. 

Finally the preparations before the race were finished. 

The cheers coming from the audience around the sports field’s boarder had reached a climax. 

All around… A unique sense of tension filled the atmosphere. 

Ash clearly felt his own heartbeat gradually quickening. During the mock competitions he had never felt so nervous. 

“On your marks!” 

Rebecca’s voice emanated from mid-air. 

Clad in a uniform she was riding on her pal’s back. Essentially this was breaching the school rules, however, as today was the annual Dragon Riding Festival, no one had raised that issue. 

Arms akimbo<ref>A human body position in which the hands are on the hips and the elbows are bowed outward. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akimbo<ref/> she now stood majestically on top of Cú Chulainn’s head. Her high-spirited heroic bearing immediately attracted everyone’s attention. 

This was her riding position. 

As Cú Chulainn’s body was too big to find a suitable saddle, and also, because she had publicly expressed that she did not want to restrain her beloved pal with a rein and saddle, this evolved into her current unique riding position. 

A suffocating silence enveloped the audience, as she lifted a magic carbine <ref>A carbine is a gun used by horsemen, do Google it!</ref>. 

Only the sound of one’s own heartbeat and the deep breathing of the dragons could be heard. 

“Get set ------” 

The carbine’s muzzle was aimed at the sky. 

Then, when the flash of an Oracle illuminated the horizon, the gun let out an enormous bang. 

Around fifty dragons, at the same time, started to run leaving behind a cloud of dust. 

The Stradas, whose tails a smoke bomb had been tied to, formed into a column and, at the same time, flapped their wings and flew. While that was happening, the smoke from the smoke bombs formed a seven-coloured rainbow in the sky. 

=== Part 6 ===
Brigid did not betray Ash’s expectations. After his flawless start he ran flat out… Hot on Lancelot’s tail. As they moved around the academy’s sports field the competitors maintained a distance between each other. 

Then, in the midst of loud cheering, they passed through the school gate that led to the city district. 

“Full speed ahead!” 

At Ash’s urging, Brigid let out a roar. 

Ash intended to, with all his strength, rush through the avenue leading St. Durham Square. 

Maestro Lancelot also possessed an astonishing speed. Within a blink of an eye, he had already overtaken many competitors. 

Brigid tailed closely behind Lancelot’s body, where the effect of air friction was the least, ascending the ranks with him. However, when Lancelot was about to enter a narrow city road, which was connected to St. Durham Square, he suddenly slowed down. 

“……… That’s odd.” 

Ash, who had been following Brigid, raised his head and looked ahead. 

“Them ………!” 

Four competitors, side by side in a row, had obstructed the way ahead. Upon closer inspection, Ash immediately realised that they were the same four female students who had slandered Silvia before the competition. 

Ahead, the narrow city road meandered endlessly, plagued with numerous challenging turns. It seems that until I have exited the city district, I will have to be patient, Ash thought to himself. 

All of a sudden, he grasped their intentions. 

“Those people ………” 

They were probably here to target Silvia. 

Whenever other competitors approached from behind, they would, at once, automatically create a small gap to allow them to pass. 

Bit by bit, Silvia’s ranking was deteriorating. Soon, she, along with Ash, would be last. 

Ash was at a loss. 

Overtaking Silvia wouldn’t be hard. The female students obstructing the way ahead should let him pass. After all. He was a bystander to them so there wasn’t any need to make things hard for him. 

“You people really have taken things too far!” 

Infuriated. Ash couldn’t help but shout at them. 

“Do you really not care?” 

He exclaimed, in a loud voice, as he spurred Brigid to Lancelot’s side. 

Due to the difference in height between the Maestro and Asia Ash had to look up at Silvia. 

In contrast, Silvia glanced down at Ash, her face was etched with contempt. 

“……… There is nothing that can be done about this, whether it is blocking our way or working together, it doesn’t violate the rules of this race.” 

“Now is the time to act noble! Could it be that you aren’t angry at all?” 

“I don’t want to talk to enemies! Go away! It’s none of your business!” 

“You excessively prideful person! No wonder you can’t make any friends!” 

“Y-You! What did you say!” 

Ignoring Silvia’s protests Ash spurred Brigid ahead quickly leaving Lancelot behind and approaching the four female students whom were blocking the way ahead. 

As expected, as soon as one of the four girls noticed him, she promptly shifted over, creating a gap on her right. 

Ash, without looking at any of them, spurred Brigid straight towards the gap that she had created. 

They probably had thought that he was just going to pass through. 

“Fu ……… you are wrong!” 

With a flick of the reins in his hand he used Brigid’s enormous body and immediately moved to squash the female students beside him. 

They were now extremely close together, almost reaching the point of breaking the competition’s rules. 

“Hey, what are you trying to do?” 

One of the girls paled <ref>Chinese phrase 花容失色. 花容 - Literally means flower colour / radiance [And it referrers to a beautiful girl] and 失色 - means to lose colour</ref>, due to fright. 

Due to turmoil caused by Ash the four riders, who had been in an orderly row, were now shortening the distance between themselves. Soon they would collide into each other. 

There was only one option to prevent this; To relinquish their positions. However, if they did so, they would destroy their row formation. 

Without doubt, this was the goal Ash had aimed to achieve, and, after achieving the upper hand, he didn’t overlook the chance to gibe at them: 

“I’m very sorry for the trouble I have caused. This dragon was borrowed from someone and it seems to be a little disobedient!” 

The expression of one of the girls, suddenly changed. 

“You are Ash Blake!” 

Whether it was luck or not, Ash’s name seemed to have an profound effect on them. 

“It’s the Number One Problem Child in the academy!” 

“Uhh! Stay away from me!” 

“Kyaaa!” 

The four female students promptly broke formation and, after a brief period of turmoil, they all fell hopelessly at the side of the road. 

Their high-pitched shrieks, along with the roars of the dragons, reverberated endlessly in the narrow city road. 

Silvia, who had been behind, deftly dodged the female students and dragons, and quickly picked up speed. 

“W-Who told you to meddle in other people’s business!” 

In spite of her brusque tone her cheeks, however, turned slightly red. 

=== Part 7 ===
After leaving the city district, he journeyed north on the main road, arriving at Fianna Forest. 

The forest was also a part of the competition’s course. The skills required were now, were vastly different from the ones needed to navigate through the city roads. 

After just entering the forest, a strange thing happened. 

“……… Brigid?” 

Brigid, who had been tailing Lancelot the whole journey, suddenly slowed down. 

Silvia, obviously, took advantage of this opportunity. In a nick of time she had disappeared. 

“What’s wrong ………?” 

Brigid, finally, stopped walking. 

He was breathing heavily and his expression was one of great pain. 

Ash, now, had finally realised the mistake he had made. 

“I was too careless.” 

While Ash had been preoccupied with following Silvia, he hadn’t noticed that Brigid had run out of stamina. 

From the start Brigid had always maintained the same speed as Lancelot in spite of the difference of stamina between a Maestro and an Asia. Generally, in order to successfully finish the competition, the pace to compete at should have been determined from the stamina of the dragon. 

“………Sorry, Brigid.” 

After he had apologised, Brigid let out a soft snort, as if he was ashamed of his physical strength. 

Now, groups of competitors, bit by bit, had caught up. One by one, they raced past Ash’s side. 

The sound of thunderous rumbling shook the earth as the air filled with dust. 

The sight of a group of Asias running in the forest was spectacular to behold. Ash could sense the ground rocking incessantly. It didn't subside for quite a while. 

Ash’s competition, at his point of time, had concluded. 

Between him and Silvia, a winner had been determined. His goal to force Silvia to take back her words, in the end, wasn’t achieved. 

If this was described as unfortunate, it would be a lie. Ash had really wanted to complete the competition. For the entire time, he had made a bee line for the finish line. 

However, oddly enough, Ash’s mood was rather carefree. 

“It turns out that competing with the princess is quite interesting.” 

No matter how reluctant, he couldn’t deny this fact. 

Then, at this moment<nowiki>------</nowiki> 

A rustling noise, without warning, came from behind. 

“<nowiki>------</nowiki>!” 

Ash instinctively looked back staring at the forest behind him. 

“………Who is it?” 

For safety reasons Ansarivan’s security guards would, during the race, patrol the forest. 

In the forest, to sense another person’s presence, wasn’t something to make a big fuss out of. 

However, whoever it was, hadn’t replied. If it was really a security guard he should have already appeared directly before Ash who had been eliminated. 

Ash heightened his awareness and cautiously surveyed the surroundings. 

Although he hadn’t discovered any suspicious figures he felt as though someone was watching him.
He could feel a sense of foreboding growing within himself. 

“Wait for me here.” 

After leaving Brigid there… Ash walked into the depths of the forest. 

=== Part 8 ===
<noinclude>
Fianna Forest, bordered on the west by Rubina Lake, was located northwest of the city Ansarivan. It’s one of the largest forests within the borders of Lautreamont Knight Country. 

As Ash ran in the forest, so as to not trip over the tree roots that crawled over the earth like a web of intricate blood vessels, he constantly looked down at his feet. 

Then, once again, he sensed the presence of someone else. 

“Found you!” 

Trusting his own intuition, Ash threw a stone at the bushes in front of him. 

The bushes rocked left and right, making a rustling sound. 

“Your intuition is quite keen. It really is one of your talents” 

Stated a voice that possessed both the vitality of youth and the staid of seniority. 

“You are ………?” 

From the bushes, a tall thin man emerged. In his left hand, he held the very stone that Ash had just thrown. 

Though he was dressed in a traveller’s garb, which wasn’t out of the ordinary, Ash was shocked into silence. 

This was because that man was wearing a silver coloured mask on his face, which covered everything except for his nose and mouth. 

In addition to this, his gleaming sliver hair was streaked through with strands of crimson hair, which brought to mind an image of silver silk slowly shedding blood, as well as the blood used to write cursed scripts. 

In his right hand, he held a black object that emitted light. 

“A mechanical weapon from ……… The Empire<ref>Although the sources don't say so, this 'empire' refers to the Zepharos Empire</ref>?” 

Ash, dumbfounded, stood on the spot unable to move. 

It’s not like he didn’t know about it. 

On the other side of the steep mountain range, lacking the blessing of dragons, the Empire, nevertheless, had a highly developed civilisation based on machinery. 

The weapon that the masked man held in his hand probably was the product of mechanical engineering. If he remembered correctly, it was a ‘short machine gun’, a gun that combined the portability of a pistol and the rapid fire of a machine gun. Ash didn’t dare to act rashly. He knew that man could easily, at a moment’s notice, riddle him with so many bullet holes that he would look like a honeycomb. 

Perhaps it was because he had perceived Ash’s wariness… The corners of the man’s mouth twitched faintly upwards. 

“Young man. You are very bright.” 

“You are ……… A soldier of the Empire?” 

“Do I look like one?” 

Ash didn’t know what to decide. 

That object in the man’s hand was a weapon manufactured by the Empire. 

However, that man didn’t have an Empire accent. Instead, he had a strong Chevron Kingdom accent. Aside from that… The way he spoke was highly refined. To be more precise, he was speaking so-called ‘King’s Chevrish’. 

Ash realised that he was in a precarious situation. 

If the masked man was from the Empire… Why would he be lurking around the outskirts of Ansarivan for? 

Maybe he was an Empire spy. 

The Chevron Kingdom and the Zepharos Empire, the two great powers of this continent, had been in a Cold War which had, already, lasted five decades. 

Sandwiched between those two countries, was the Lautreamont Knight Country, the Chevron Kingdom’s child country. 

Initially. The Knight Country was part of the Kingdom<ref>Kingdom here refers to the Chevron Kingdom</ref>, therefore, the relationship between these two countries would, naturally, be much closer than any of their allies. 

Currently, should armed personal from the Empire appear within boarders of Knight Country, this country could, and would, interpret this as a military operation of the Empire. 

However. Ash’s strength was finite. He was definitely incapable of opposing the man before his eyes. 

“Young man, how old are you?” 

The masked man’s unexpected question distracted him for a moment. 

“……… Sixteen. Is there something wrong with that?” 

“That’s strange. Why do you still have larva within you?” 

Ash, astounded, subconsciously retreated a few steps. 

“H-How do you know?” 

“The curse on your body allowed me to clearly perceive that.” 

“Curse ………?” 

Ash frowned. He never would never have expected to hear, from the mouth of a person from the Empire, words so unscientific. 

Unfortunately… He didn’t have the time to ask what those words truly meant. 

“Get away from Milgauss-sama” 

A tender, yet commanding, voice resonated in his ears. 

Reflexively, he looked back and saw a petite figure moving towards him. Then, immediately after pulling an object from its left bracer, the shrill sound of air being sliced sounded by his ear. 

“Argh!” 

Moving his body quickly… Ash awkwardly dodged the surprise attack. A pitch-black serpent passed through the space where his head had been. Actually, upon closer inspection, the pitch-black snake was actually a long whip. The preferred weapon of the Tantalos Tribe. 

Those who master this weapon are said to have an unpredictable attack. Even soldiers armed with swords, guns or cannons weren’t a match. 

Ash dived onto the ground and began to roll, attempting to distance himself. 

Although his attacker was also wearing a mask, from their exposed eyes, he determined that it was most likely a young teenage girl. 

Her beautiful jet-black hair was fixed at the back of her head and, despite her petite stature, her eyes were filled with murderous intent. 

Ash, improvising on the spot, got up from the ground, grabbed a handful of dirt, threw it at the girl, turned and ran. 

“Argh ………!” 

The girl flinched and, for a brief moment, shielded her eyes. Then she began to pursue Ash. 

Ash, sprinting, plunged into a nearby thicket. 

“Damn ……… Why am I so unfortunate!” 

Upon rushing out of the forest his field of vision immediately widened. 

Above him a dazzling blue sky stretched as far as the eye could see forcing him to narrow his eyes. 

Barren rocks, big and small, littered the ground. 

Ash swallowed. This situation wasn’t good. Ahead of him there was a ravine. Its edge was around ten steps away. Ash looked around but couldn’t find a bridge. 

“Obediently accept your fate!” 

The girl appeared from within the forest. 

Ash, with his back to the cliff, confronted her. 

“When did I ever wrong you?” 

“Meeting us. This was your greatest misfortune.” 

The girls tone was flat, lacking any rise or drop in pitch, making her sound emotionless. 

“That’s absurd!” 

“War needs no reason.” 

“Isn’t there an armistice?” 

“Armistice? That nothing more than something we pretend to adhere to. In reality the war between the Empire and the Kingdom hasn’t ended!” 

The girl kicked the ground, and, brandishing the whip in her hand, slowly forced Ash towards the edge of ravine behind him. 

Though Ash scored quite well in the class of fighting techniques, this girl’s movements were too fast. He could only, step by step, retreat backwards. 

In a few more steps, he would fall into the ravine. 

“Hmph ……… I wonder how long you can continue to struggle!” 

She sounded irritated. In fact, she was most likely an impetuous person. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> Now! 

Ash grabbed the end of the whip, which had missed him, and then, with a great pull, broke her balance. 

“Uooo!” 

He grabbed her by her collar and, using her own momentum<ref>Do google Aikido !!!</ref>, hurled her away. Her body traced a parabola in the air. Ash was surprised, as he hadn’t expected her body to be so light. 

“Kawaa!” 

Falling heavily, the girl gave a painful cry and her right hand involuntarily realised the whip. 

“Uguu ………” 

Still conscious… Tears of misery appeared her eyes. Aside from that she was constantly squirming as if in great pain. She probably wouldn’t be able to stand for a quite a while. 

Steading his breathing, Ash slowly extended his right hand towards the mask on her face. He wanted to see what she looked like. Then, just at this moment. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki> Bishi! 

A peculiar noise, similar to that of an object fracturing, could be heard. 

“Eh ………?” 

Ash could hardly believe his eyes. 

The outcrop <ref>Exposed bedrock</ref> supporting their weight, unexpectedly, had begun to collapse. 

This was most likely due to a geological fault in the rock. This fight should never have been performed in this kind of location. Then he noticed it… A warning sign labelled “Beware of Collapse”. 

“Ku ………!” 

Ash had no time to ponder. He lifted the girl and threw her forwards. 

She landed safely on a stable piece of outcrop. 

However, in doing so, he didn’t have enough time to escape. Instead he fell, along with the rocky debris, into the ravine. 

“Aaaaaaaaaaaaah!” 

The immense drag of the wind almost tore his skin. 

Ash was scared of falling into a bottomless ravine. Then, at this moment, he felt his left wrist heat up. 

“Eh ………?” 

A flash of light burst through his clothing. The «Seikoku», which extended from his elbow to his wrist, suddenly began to emit heat and scarlet light. 

The shrill sound of the wind was silenced. 

In fact, all sound was silenced. 

“Ugh ………!” 

Ash felt an excruciating pain within his chest, as if it was being torn in half, as though something was trying to break out of his body. 

The pain almost caused him to lose consciousness. 

While bearing the pain, he looked down at his chest and found that it was exuding a dazzling radiance. 

“Guaaaaaaaaaaaah!” 

Ash gave a great scream as his consciousness gradually began to fade. 

However, within his hazy vision, he saw something clearly. 

A girl was floating in mid-air. 

Completely naked. 

With her eyes tightly closed and her arms open she floated next to him. 

Subconsciously… Ash reached out with both his hands towards her petite body. 

She slid with no resistance into his arms. 

Around them a blinding light had, unbeknownst to them, enveloped their bodies. 

Not only that, but their descent had slowed down. 

Hugging the girl, Ash slowly floated down, like one would within a child’s fairy tale. 

Before long… They landed on a rock beside a creek. 

The ball of light, which had protected them, instantly turned into countless particles and disappeared without a trace. 

“Am I safe now ………?” 

Ash mumbled to himself as he looked down at the girl in his arms. 

The breathing of the girl, whose eyes were still closed, sounded rather peaceful. 

“Uwaa!” 

Ash felt a little ardent as he realised that the girl was naked. 

Her dainty figure, along with her slightly bulging chest, and her smooth and delicate white skin was definitely something that was hardly ever seen within this world. In fact. It gave rise to the illusion of an angel descending into the world of mortals. 

Her age was probably around fourteen or fifteen. 

Gently laying her on the ground, Ash swiftly took off the coat of his Dragsuit.[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v1 055.jpg|thumb]] 

With just his coat he was able to sufficiently cover her petite body. 

“Fuu ………” 

With this done Ash, feeling relieved, sat on the ground. 

Yet again, he looked at the face of the girl. 

“Could she be ……… Navi?” 

Within his mind, an image of the girl who had, since the start of this week, been teasing him within his dreams, surfaced. 

“No. you are similar for sure ……… But still a little different.” 

To draw an analogy Navi would be a succubus from a Gothic novel with a face that retained the innocence, of childhood and yet also possessing the charm of a mature woman. 

On the other hand… The girl before his eyes was just a girl. Ash couldn’t feel any mature charm from her. 

“……… eh?” 

Ash frowned. Something small, circular and ivory coloured, protruded from top left and right of sides her head. 

“What is this?” 

With his fingertips Ash gently probed the mysterious protrusions. 

It was soft and a little flexible and seemed to be made of some kind of cartilage. 

The mysterious protrusions had a peculiar feel to it, making him want to touch it again after first touching it. However. Ash resisted the urges to touch it again as it would be impolite. 

Looks like those mysterious protrusions weren’t accessories but part of her body. 

“Could it be ……… horns?” 

The little protrusions on top of her head, indeed, seemed to be identical to the horns of a young dragon. 

Ash couldn’t help but recall the details of the events, that had happen prior to now, in his mind. 

The girl had emerged out of his body and she had two horns growing from top left and right sides of her head. 

As a result, there could only be one conclusion. 

“……… this young girl is my pal?” 

Ash was dumbfounded. 

He had always wished to rouse his pal from sleep, however, why was his pal a girl when everyone else’s were dragons? 

“Uuu ………nnn ………” 

The girl’s long eyelashes quivered a little. 

“Huwaaa ………” 

The girl, in contrast to her beautiful appearance, gave a great yawn. 

One of her double eyelids slowly began to open. 

Ash, subconsciously, leaned forwards and looked at her face. 

Her ruby coloured pupils were very fascinating. 

Bleary eyed, she suddenly opened her eyes wide and her facial expression became one of shock. 

“Hugiyaaaaaaaa!” 

“Oooof!” 

Ash, receiving a slap on his cheek, fell backwards and his head became immersed in the creek. 

Fortunately, the stream wasn’t deep, so aside from his sorry figure, he wasn’t hurt. 

“S-Such great strength ………” 

With blood trickling from his nose… Ash struggled to get up. 

“To go so far as to take advantage of a sleeping lady really is too much! Don’t you know who I am?” 

Blushing hard she suddenly stood up. 

The jacket that Ash had draped over her body, slid off. 

Her dainty naked body was clearly visible. 

However, she made no move to cover herself. 

“P-Please put on your clothes first before you talk!” 

Ash quickly looked away. 

“Clothes? Ridiculous! Clothes are just items humans create to hide their ugliness.” 

“What?” 

“That’s right. A proper dragon doesn’t need clothes!” 

“I don’t care whether you need clothes or not! Just put them on!” 

After saying that Ash turned his back on her. 

“I know that you are a dragon! Well ……… Strictly speaking I’m not sure. However, even if you’re a dragon, right now, you are a girl!” 

“So what?” 

“That ……… naked girl standing in front of me ……… is making me lose my calm” 

“Hmph! Such a useless guy. Like I said, humans are really <nowiki>------</nowiki>” 

At this moment, a strong gust of wind blew through the ravine. 

Though it was now spring, it still felt chilly when a gust of wind blew on the body. 

“A ……Ahchoo!” 

Compared to her arrogant attitude just then… Her sneeze was extremely cute. 

After her sneeze an unimaginably huge gust of wind headed towards Ash. 

“Uoo!” 

Immediately Ash clung onto the rock next to him and, like this, prevented himself from getting blown away. 

“A dragons’ sneeze is, it turns out to be, quite formidable ………” 

After calming himself down, with his back towards the girl, Ash proceeded to defend his opinion: 

“You’re right… Clothes do make people look better. However, apart from that, they also protect against the cold!” 

“Muuu ………” 

The girl pouted as if she didn’t quite agree with Ash’s point. However, in the end, she accepted his opinion. 

Before long, there was a rustling sound. 

Cautiously turning his head around, Ash saw that she had obediently put on the jacket. 

As her body was very petite, just the jacket was enough to cover her important parts. However, her legs were still exposed. 

Her white tender thighs caused Ash to hold his breath. Wearing just a male jacket, her current appearance, compared when she was naked, caused one to fantasize even more. 

After directing his gaze away from her thighs Ash sighed a few times. 

“There is something I want to confirm. You should be the dragon that was within me.” 

“Strictly speaking. I was only temporarily borrowing your body.” 

“Weren’t you within my body for too long? I’ve already become a first year Advanced Course student!” 

“What did you say?” 

The girl eyed Ash with an ominous glint in her eyes. 

Her expression, as sharp as a sword, rested on Ash’s chest. 

“N-Nothing ………” 

Ash, a little overwhelmed by the girl’s reaction, could only reply like this. 

“I am not an ordinary dragon. Do not lump me with the others.” 

“Whaa?” 

Clearly displeased, the girl planted both her hands on her hips and looked at Ash. 

“Listen carefully, I do not think that you think that you are my master at all! Who cares about the secret agreement of Albion ………” 

Ash was a little surprised when the girl mentioned that historical term. 

<nowiki>------</nowiki>The secret agreement of Albion 

Long ago, confronted with the crisis of extinction, the dragons stipulated a treaty with humans who wanted their magic. 

“……… That being said, you and I share a common destiny. Although you cannot see it, we are bound together by an invisible thread.” 

What she was talking about was probably the so-called Astral Flow. 

“After combining with humans dragons are able to get a supply of the Astral. As a result. Dragons obtained the strength to survive thus overcoming the crisis of extinction.” 

This knowledge was taught during the Basic Course. The Astral was something similar to “qi”<ref>Look it up here! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qi</ref> and was the source of greatly-needed strength. 

The history of the dragons was far longer than that of humans. With each new generation, the Astral contained within their bodies decreased. 

Due to the lack of the Astral, before becoming fully grown, many young dragons died prematurely. 

If young dragons were unable to mature into adult dragons, sooner or later, dragons would go down the path of extinction. 

Concerned by the current situation the dragons decided to combine with certain humans, who possessed the most Astral Flow, thus avoiding extinction. 

“Quite so. However, even so, I don’t believe the dragons owe humans one. Instead, humans should feel honoured.” 

“No. Shouldn’t you, at least, feel a little thankful?” 

Having just finished saying that… Ash’s abdomen received a blow from the girl’s elbow. 

“Gah!” 

“By the way …” 

After glancing at Ash, who was writhing in pain, the girl, thinking about something, suddenly turned away. Her vigour, that she had displayed just then, disappeared and was replaced by bashfulness and embarrassment. 

“M-My name ……” 

“Ehh?” 

Ash, puzzled, frowned. The girl turned a shade of bright red and shouted. 

“My, …… name, my name! Give me a name! T-This is a, somewhat, very important thing!” 

“Do you really want me to give you a name?” 

“It can’t be helped! Although I don’t approve of the secret agreement of Albion, I too, cannot break the rules! You must give me a name for the contract to be complete!” 

“Is that so? The dragons also have so many difficult rules.” 

“I-I don’t need things like your sympathy!” 

Faced with the girls extremely attitude, Ash made a bitter smile. 

“If that’s how it’s going to go, relax. I have already thought of your name” 

Ever since he had become a Breeder, he had always remembered this name. 

“Your name is Eco” 

Compared to Lancelot and Cú Chulainn, it was a little out of fashion. However, it was a rather historical name, frequently appearing in historical or religious textbooks. 

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

User:Aoi uchuu

2014-01-19T04:19:16Z

Aoi uchuu:

hajimemashite.

I have read many short novels at Baka-Tsuki over the years.

During this time I have been editing (both graphically and phonetically, as some of the early translations can be rough) manga for various groups.

Also during this time I learned, likely only first grade-school level, Japanese. (kana but few kanji so no help there) I am a great fan of world culture, especially Japanese, and feel that if we can understand each other we can live in peace with the economic benefits from that.

After a reading some of the popular novels and I got even more bored and started reading the rest.

At some point felt that it would be nice to edit some of the translations, much in the same way I did for manga.

My strengths are not just vocabulary and grammar but sometimes an artful way to say things with phrases, parables and slang. (and use a spell checker for the rest...)

I don't mind being corrected. The only important thing is to edit in respect to the author's prose, character expression and setting descriptions.

I would like to encourage translators to include a hard to understand word or cultural saying, even if they don't fit in the sentence.

Its sometimes a great fun puzzle to decipher a paragraph or sentence knowing that just that one word or place-name, that did not originally make sense, can mean an whole new paraphrase or change of wording.

User talk:Cthaeh

2014-01-18T06:43:35Z

Aoi uchuu: /* General Comments */

==(Old) Index consistency editing==
I spent a bit of effort attempting to make Index more consistent between volumes. I've deleted much of that list and comments, but if you're reviewing those edits for whatever reason, you can find the list and and comments in the history for this page (earlier than the following time stamp). --[[User:Cthaeh|Cthaeh]] ([[User talk:Cthaeh#top|talk]]) 19:50, 20 December 2013 (CST)

===Still unresolved ===
The following items I didn't fix when I did my editing, because I either discovered it while editing, wasn't satisfied that I knew which one was right, or felt it was just too much of a pain to do. This list might be helpful to anyone who wants to do similar consistency editing to tamni, which will not be me in the foreseeable future. It probably will never be used, but I would feel bad throwing it away.
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed"
|-
! Remaining items
|-
|

*‘Seven Heavens Seven Swords (Shichiten Shichitou)’ <-> Shichiten Shichitou <-> Seven Heavens Seven Swords
*‘Kamiue’ <-?-> the One Above God
*‘Demigods’ <-?-> 'The one similar to God' (or similar phrasing) (referring to one of the four archangels)
*Power of God <-> The Power of God
*Angel’s power <-> single quoted
*"outside" (nt1ch1) / Outside / outside
*Spell of Thororm <-> Thororm's technique
*reflection / vector control / vector transformation <-> vector reflection <-> Vector Change <-> vector power
*magic book (v7) <-?-> grimoire <-?-> magical text (these might have all been changed)
*church <-> Church

*Third Season program <-> Third Season project <-> Third Production Plan (equivalent searches for any instances of 1st and 2nd as well)
::-Any advice on which, if any, of those should be removed and consolidated?
:::-OH&S: The keyword is 計画 which means [plan; project; schedule; scheme; program; programme]. I would decide between Plan and Project. I would go for Project as it sounds more appropriate.
:::-Cthaeh: OK, that would resolve the question between the first two, but is the Third Production Plan supposed to be different ("Production" vs "Season")?
*description of Aleister (sinner <-> criminal <-> convict) (feminine <-> female <-> woman) (male <-> man)
::-''Hopefully this can be answered satisfactorily without having to look up each, but I assume should all these be formatted the same/similar? There are the three sets of differing word choice summarized above. There is one out of the typical order of man/woman-->adult/child-->saint/sinner. There is one swap of the typical Adult-->Child order. I'm assuming that those three things should all be the same, even if the structure of the sentences differs?
::*(v2ch1) The silver-haired “human” appeared like a man but somehow feminine, like an adult but somehow childlike, like a saint but somehow criminal. ... He sounded like a man but somehow feminine, like an adult but somehow childlike, like a saint but somehow criminal. ... The human spoke, the being that appeared like a man but somehow feminine, like an adult but somehow childlike, like a saint but somehow criminal formed an expression which could have been considered a smile and continued.
::*(v6pro) This person looked like a man, yet also a woman; like an adult, yet also a child; like a saint, yet also a criminal.
::*(v6epil) This person, Aleister, who looked like a man, and like a woman; an adult, and a child; a Saint, and a convict, had all the possibilities of humanity.
::*(v9ch1) It was hard to tell whether that voice belongs to a man or a woman, a child or an adult, a Saint or a criminal.
::*(v10epil) This person, it was unknown if he was a man or a woman, an adult or a child, a Saint or a convict.
::*(v10epil) In the darkness, the ‘human’ laughed. / Was that from the greatest scientist in the world? / Or was that from the strongest magician in the world? / Was he a man, or a woman? / An adult, or a child? / A Saint, or a convict?
::*(v16epil)An Adult, and yet a Child; a Man, and yet a Woman; a Saint, and yet a Sinner
::*(v19epil) For just an instant, a slight distortion entered that human voice that sounded like the voice of both a man and a woman, both of an adult and a child, and both of a saint and a criminal.
::*(v22epil)He had an odd atmosphere that made him seem both male and female, both adult and child, and both saint and sinner.
:::-Cthaeh: I like sinner for matching against saint (alliteration and thematic)
:::-Ultranova17: I agree that sinner sounds better.
:::-Teh Ping: 'Sinner' sounds better, but may be too light of a term to be used in this case. We are talking about the Most Wicked Man in the World after all.
:::-Cthaeh: So, 2 editor votes + 1 translator/supervisor anti-vote = ???
:::-Skies: The quoted sentence you have there from Volume 2 Chapter 1 were personal liberties that I took to make it more sensible in English. While it's possible to be a (noun), you can only be described by (adjectives). This the reasoning for being a man described as feminine, an adult described as childlike, and a saint described as criminal. Ultimately, the sentence is just a stylistic way of saying the statements said below. Whether or not you choose to adopt this or revert it to a simpler standard is up to you. These are evolving translations after all.
*commander (referring to Last Order) (nt1ch1) <-> command tower <-> control tower
::-This could easily be intentional word choice diversity, so I won’t change unless told they should be the same?
:::-js06: They should be the same.
:::-Cthaeh: I could decide between them myself, but is there any preference for one term or the other (I'd normally go by whatever js06 uses, but there are multiple instances of both command and control tower in js06 translated chapters)

*XXth school district / District XX / XXth District / the XXth district / XXth student district
::-While this isn’t too big of an issue, I feel like there is a little too much diversity. If someone wants to suggest terms to consolidate to, then I’ll do that. Otherwise I’ll probably leave it alone.
:::-Ultranova: I've always edited it to District XX, since that's the term js06 uses.
:::-Skies: In all of my edits, I change them to District 11 or something similar. To be extremely pedantic, 11th District would always require that you add "of Academy City" or "of the city" to be grammatically correct.
*Amakusa Catholics / Amakusa Church / Amakusa Christian Church (NecCh1) / Amakusas / Amakusa / Amakusa-style Church / Amakusa-style Remix of Church / Amakusa Style Remix of Church / Amakusa Style Remix-of-Church
::-I could use some guidance here as to which terms to keep. The last three are likely trivial to decide on, but I think some of the first few forms should be consolidated.
:::-Teh Ping: I hate this one, and simply copied the title. Well, they aren't really Catholics, so I think Amakusa Church is more appropriate in this case.
:::-Cthaeh: (I don't like it either) Anyone want to save me from indecisiveness by bolding which terms to keep?
*Removing single quotes around special terms (ie ‘Stab Sword’ -> '''Stab Sword''', ‘Apostle's Cross’ -> '''Apostle's Cross''', and others)
::-Teh Ping’s style was to use single quotes around special terms. Js06 does not, and there are quite a few entries on this list that relate to making those two styles consistent for terms that are spread across the volumes. In addition, there are a few terms that only appear in Teh Ping translated chapters and are therefore already consistent. However, I am still planning to remove the single quotes in order for the general style to be more consistent across volumes.
:::- OH&S (paraphrasing): PLEASE DON'T REMOVE THEM. The apostrophes are clues that the word may not be translated correctly. I hope to systematically remove them as I edit each part.
:::-Ultranova17: I greatly dislike the single quotes around terms. It may just be me, but it makes the volume much more annoying to read when every term is in a quote or some kind of special character. There is always the history link above if an editor needs to see what terms were in single quotes.
:::-Skies: Once all translations are rechecked and confirmed, all grammatically erroneous singular quotes should be removed. If you want to do this immediately, I recommend just copy pasting all of the single-quoted terminologies and pasting them onto the discussion page. Alternatively, putting traditional quotation marks is reasonable as well (e.g.: The weapon was called the "Stab Sword.").
:::-Cthaeh: I think my plan is going to be to leave the quotes for the "major" terms (ie 'Apostle's Cross') that I haven't already put on this list in other sections (ie 'Saint'). So things that are already listed in other sections will be changed as indicated. And then there are also some things that I haven't listed here that I may change when I go skimming through the list of everything with single quotes (it's too long of a list for me to want to go through it an extra time just to pick out things to put on this page, but an example I noticed was 'Deep Blood'), if I know that term is already correct.

* (Hamazura's/ was) super Hamazura (ntch1) <-?-> super Hamazura-y (v19)
*Angel of Ice, Archangel of Water (v21ch8) / (vs lower case forms) / water angel (v22ch9)
:::Skies: The question there is whether or not you want to use the term as a title. Of the three, archangel of water (ignore the capitalization for the moment) is the most appropriate. Ice is inaccurate theologically and water angel implies it's made of water rather than the fact that it has mastery over water. If you want to use it as a title, like the Archangel of Water Gabriel, then that's appropriate. Otherwise it's fairly just pedantic preference.
:::-Cthaeh: Do you know that the original JP uses only one term where the translation uses two (Angel of Ice, Archangel of Water)? Normally I look at whether whether or not the term usage is split along translator lines, but Angel of Ice and Archangel of Water both appear in the same passage by the same translator, so I was suspicious that there were two different terms in the original.
:::-Ultranova17: Based on the three ones I looked up, it seems like water should be correct. However, angel and archangel both seem to be used. 水の大天使 is the term used in v21ch7p7, and 水の天使 is both used in v21ch8p4 and v22ch9p3
*Salvare000 - A saving hand for those who cannot be saved. (2x-nt2ch4) <--?--> Salvare000 — Be the salvation of those who cannot be saved (v4ch3)
*First Production Plan <-?-> Radio Noise project
::-Ultranova17: I'm not sure about other volumes, but in volume 5, all instances of "First Production Plan" were 量産型能力者《レデイオノイズ》 in Japanese. That has Radio Noise as the furigana. I used a lower case project in those edits, but I'm not sure if it should be capitalized or not.
*brainwashing machine (v13ch8) <-> self-learning (device) <-> '''Testament'''
:::-OH&S: Testament is correct. Learning Device is the kanji.
*Supreme Pontiff <-> Priestess
::-Ultranova17: Priestess is the furigana. 元女教皇《プリエステス》
*-janyo (n1ch1) <-> -jan (at end of Yomikawa's speech) (ntch1 also uses -jan, so I'm not sure if the janyo is intentional)
*educational guidance <-> student counseling (referring to gorilla-like teacher)
*magi <-?-> magicians
*Knights (TP) <-> knights (js06)
*oujo <-> high-class girl
*spears <-> lances <-> Bomber Lances
*love comedy <-> romantic comedy
*esper development <-> esper ability development <-> psychic powers development <-> psychic power development <-> esper development <->
:::-Ultranova17: I've always edited it to psychic powers as that's what js06 translates it as. Same with changing esper powers to psychic powers, and Level 5 esper to just Level 5.
:::-(I forgot to add an OH&S comment from the pm, so this is not actually a response to Ultranova17, even though the opinion is counter) OH&S: "esper vs psychic: I will probably change them all to esper after consulting js06."
:::-Cthaeh: This ended up on my list after noticing it in some of Ultranova17's edits. Frankly I'm not too motivated about this one, so I may just leave it as is. The same goes for the below entry.
*(esper) development institute <-> (psychic powers) development institution <-> (psychic powers) development organization (referring to Academy city as a whole
*'Knights of Rounds' (v16ch3) / Knights of England (v17 ch1) <-> not used by js06
:::-Ultranova17: According to js06, for Knights of Rounds, the Japanese is 騎士派, which is consistent with the rest of the series for the knight faction.
:::-Cthaeh: So the first should be knight faction?
*‘Abnormal Halloween Night’s incident’ (nt1ch1) <-?-> British Halloween (v20)
* high class lady <-> ojou <-> lady

*the Third World War <-> World War III <-> World War 3 <-> World War Three
::-I'll probably get rid of at least some of these forms, I just haven't decided which. If you have an opinion feel free to share.
:::-Skies: Historians typically use a variation of the first three (the first two in particular) but not so much the fourth.
*'''Original''' <-> original (for referring to Mikoto relative the clones)
*'''Original''' <-> original (grimoire)

*imouto (v3ch1, others) -> sister
::-I'm not a fan of using imouto, but I think it's one of those things that some people think is important to keep, so it ended up on this list.
:::-Ultranova17: I like using Misaka Imouto, but I don't like having imouto in place of sister. Chapter 1 of volume 3 was something I had trouble with. Misaka Imouto refers to #10032 exclusively. Touma first meets Misaka #10031, who is referred in the translation as Misaka-imouto. I'm not really sure what that should be, as it would seem kind of weird to just start calling her Misaka's (younger) sister, and then suddenly switch to Misaka Imouto once #10032 shows up.
:::-Cthaeh: I do also like the usage of Misaka Imouto, and not imouto for the standard sister. I'll probably leave everything as is unless one of the two translators/supervisor comments in favor of switching (less work for me that way).
*Misaka-imouto <-> Misaka Imouto
:::-Ultranova17: When referring to #10032.
:::-Cthaeh: I never quite noticed that before now (I remember you brought it up somewhere before, but I didn't understand what you were talking about at the time). I assume there's probably not any instances that need to be switched then, and I'll leave resolving the awkwardness you mentioned in an above entry to someone else at a later date.
* ‘Queen’s Fleet’ <-> '''Queen’s Fleet'''
*'''177th branch office''' <-> 177th Branch Office (also some other branch office numbers)
*Third Gate (v13ch6) <-> third gate (v13ch6)
*'''one piece''' <-> one-piece
*'''world police''' <-> 'World Police'
*earth <-> '''Earth''' (as the planet)
*lord (v17ch4) -> '''Lord '''(when referring to the Christian god)
*'''blonde''' (for women) <-> '''blond''' (for men)
*"outside" (nt1ch1) / Outside / outside
*"graveyard" <-> graveyard (nt1ch1)
* Biri Biri <-> biri biri <-> biribiri

*cross <-> Cross
*god <-> God
*Misaka speech (use of single quotes or not)
*usage of it/its vs she/her for Misha/Gabriel (v20-22 seems to use she, v4 seems to use both)
*thought formatting (nothing, italics, parentheses, and combinations thereof)

*use and prevalence of caps for shouting
*numbers as digits vs as words
*the usage of s's, s', ss's, ect
*(Note: ), (TN: ) to references with ref tag
*whether or not to put noinclude on the Notes sections (have single notes section in full text or multiple)
*formatting for dates (use or lack of st, nd, rd, th)
*-… <-> emdash
*curly/straight quotation marks
*commas and periods (and other punctuation) inside vs outside of quotation marks
|}

== A Continued Conversation ==

Hey Cthaeh, I am just continuing our PM conversation from AS here as per your suggestion.

So about having words on words: It was never my goal to inconvenience others with my edits. As you could tell by looking at the calendar I uploaded, I have a higher tolerance towards detail than others would like. I wanted to make my edits benefit the translation and the Index LN readers rathre than hinder them. As such, I am going to have a major rethink on how to go about working with these alternately pronounced words. I actually understand the angle at which you are approaching the issue; it can be a distraction when reading. Seeing furigana on words all the time would bring about a headache. Like you said in your earlier PM, there are a lot of words for which the base kanji is only slightly different from what is spoken and very little extra information is given. In such a case, I wouldn't include it either, or only include it for the first use of the word. e.g. {{furigana|Imagine Breaker|Illusion Destroyer|margin=12}} only for the first time in the entire series. Another issue that may be annoying to deal with is that of the furigana being squeezed between the two lines in blocks of text like the given example. Sometimes there is overlap, which increases the difficulty of reading and makes the aforementioned headache worse. It would be unwise to have furigana in such a scenario. Lastly the use of bold text for the base words: I was just experimenting to see if it was a viable option (for the app) and have yet to change it back. After looking at it and hearing your opinion on it, I dont like it either. The specific example you used, Asociacion di Cienia, was bolded to highlight what was actually pronounced. No need to worry about it, that particular example doesn't even need furigana going by the above criteria. If no one changes it by the time I get to it, I will do it myself. In the end, I may be able to avoid the excessive use of furigana by making clever use of the ref tag. I can create a reference group for alternate pronounciations and stuff all of the furigana there while listing them at the bottom of the chapter page with the other notes; its seems like a better choice. Though I still plan on using furigana for at least some of the one-off or rarely used phrases in the series. e.g. {{furigana|Dragon Breath|Dragon King's Killing Breath|margin=12}} ... Actually, bad example. If the furigana is longer than the base, then I will also put it into the alt references. Like so: Dragon Breath<ref group=alt>Kanji: Killing Breath of the Dragon King</ref>
<references group=alt/>
If I do things like this, I may be able to minimize the use of furigana as much as possible. However, some important ones do need to be there, like the epic line from Touma at the end of Volume 3 Chapter 4. I can also include translations of other terms not in english within the alt references. Essentially, all(majority) of the headache inducing furigana will be at the bottom of the page for those who actually click the the footnote. As long as you don't click them, no headaches. This would also fall in line with my goal of fixing up the notes section across all volumes.
'''What do you think of this new method?''' If I create another ref group for the other references, then I think this method will work well for the Index series. It would also be good to get feedback from the other translators and editors.--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 08:48, 18 September 2013 (CDT)

:I think references is probably the best compromise between those who want the extra information, and those who don't want to be distracted while reading. I think excess references in the text can also be distracting as well (though not as much), so my personal preference would still be to leave out unnecessary terms, and to only reference the first occurrence if it as least somewhat important. The example of Dragon Breath (Dragon King's Killing Breath) is one that I personally wouldn't consider it important enough to get a reference even on the first occurrence. Though obviously opinions will differ on what is important.

:One idea might be to make a list of all furigana terms on a separate page (linked from the main project page), and then those who are interested could still see all the terms that use furigana, including those that weren't important enough to get references. What I'm imagining is a new page with a sortable list (see [[Rakuin_no_Monshou:Guidelines|this page]] for an example of the wikitable sortable format), with columns <vX-cY (first appearance)> - <kanji translation> - <furigana translation>. That way people would be able to sort by first appearance and look up such terms for a given volume, or sort by name to look up if they forgot the first occurrence. Though I don't know if such list on a separate page would be a satisfactory method of providing the extra information from the perspective of those who want that extra information. --[[User:Cthaeh|Cthaeh]] ([[User talk:Cthaeh#top|talk]]) 19:40, 18 September 2013 (CDT)

::Well I think the best course of action is to forget about the furigana edits for now and for me to do my edits for Volume 1 and 2. Then go back and make furigana related edits afterwards as a trial. After we can come to an agreement on how to go about furigana edits. I can continue with the designated format. How does that sound?--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 21:02, 18 September 2013 (CDT)

:::Sure. Though if you wanted to include your furigana related edits in your first pass, I think that'd be fine too. And others might have opinions to contribute as well; my opinion isn't all that important beyond representing readers who may be like me. --[[User:Cthaeh|Cthaeh]] ([[User talk:Cthaeh#top|talk]]) 21:38, 18 September 2013 (CDT)

:::::Well, regardless of what happens, Volumes 1 and 2 will function as the trial.--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 22:13, 18 September 2013 (CDT)

==General Comments==

Thanks for the heads up on the Log Horizon illustrations.--[[User:Drowzycow|Drowzycow]] ([[User talk:Drowzycow|talk]]) 20:42, 13 November 2013 (CST)

 

:I have replied to your PM on Animesuki--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 23:33, 2 December 2013 (CST)
::I have made the requested changes. I also responded on Animesuki--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 00:47, 3 December 2013 (CST)
::: 
Hello Cthaeh, I thought you would like an update regarding my recent edits to the main page. I added onto the page discussion [[Talk:Toaru Majutsu no Index|here]]. There is a bit of me repeating what I have already told you but there are a few more thoughts there.--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 01:54, 6 December 2013 (CST)
:Cthaeh, would it be possible to hear some feedback from you regarding the recent changes I made to the Index Main Page (on the page discussion)? Thank you.--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 19:11, 10 December 2013 (CST)
::Thanks for the feedback. Ive put my thoughts about it in the discussion page. You don't need to reply to this.--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 22:58, 10 December 2013 (CST)
:::I have updated the main page yet again with a small list changes put on the discussion page. Thinngs look much better now. Thanks again.--[[User:OH&S|OH&S]] ([[User talk:OH&S|talk]]) 23:58, 10 December 2013 (CST)
 
Thanks for adding the image link, I was staring for quote some minutes at the page when I did it and thought "I know there's something missing..." :D [[User:Cautr|-cautr]] ([[User talk:Cautr|talk]]) 03:58, 16 December 2013 (CST)

Thanks for the heads up. Am always trying to identify hanging quotes. Some are impossible but that one was solved by looking up the original. --[[User:Aoi uchuu|Aoi uchuu]] ([[User talk:Aoi uchuu|talk]]) 00:43, 18 January 2014 (CST)

User talk:Setsuna86

2014-01-17T01:13:08Z

Aoi uchuu: /* Gakusen Toshi Asterisk */

==Madan no Ou to Vanadis==

awesome stuff dude,btw..par told me that u had ch3 done/on the way too,keep up the good work lolz XD -- [[User:Ways|Ways]]([[User talk:Ways|talk]]) 12:40, 6 May 2013 (CST)

My apologies if this isn't the case, but is the new chapter of Vanadis that was just posted an edited machine translation? It seems a bit...off. --[[User:Hiyono|Hiyono]] ([[User talk:Hiyono|talk]]) 12:14, 6 May 2013 (CDT)

Setsuna's profile says he's French. No matter how good he is at Japanese or English, neither is his first language, more likely than not, so it's not surprising. Either way, he's doing a great job, I think :D --[[User:EnigmaticAxiom|EnigmaticAxiom]] ([[User talk:EnigmaticAxiom|talk]]) 18:26, 6 May 2013 (CST)

I think setsuna picked it up after Xena went MIA and Par stepped down to doing Shikkin and Chaika.(In that Animesuki thread..i think its not machine) [[User:Ways|Ways]]([[User talk:Ways|talk]]) 20:14, 6 May 2013 (CST)

No, it's not a machine translation. I know they are some errors. If you can correct it, please do so. That will help.

Thank you for translating this:)

Hey, setsuna I am dropping by to give you a greeting. BTW, if you want me to help with anything just drop it in my talk page here. --[[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User talk:Par74583|talk]]) 17:03, 8 May 2013 (GMT+7)

Setsuna, Olga's dragonic tool is Muma. BTW, how about u guys hang out in #campione lol, easier to talk and discuss. --[[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User talk:Par74583|talk]]) 20:47, 10 May 2013 (GMT+7)

I would like to finish with this volume first. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 10:31, 29 July 2013 (CDT)

I've only started re-reading ch. 3 just now because I played LoL for a bit(:P) and PAR, I wanna hang out too T_T Where is that? can you give me a link?
B.T.W.setsuna, did you get you username from Houki's I.S.? Setsura?

irc.rizon.net, #campione channel --[[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User talk:Par74583|talk]]) 22:52, 10 May 2013 (GMT+7)

Thank You for your hard work!

Thanks a lot for doing Volume 6 of vanadis. Do you have plans to do Volume 7? [[User:Zeikuu|Zeikuu]] ([[User talk:Zeikuu|talk]]) 19:32, 27 June 2013 (CDT)

I will also do Volume 7. I wait that it is out. For the moment, I do Rakuin no Monsho, to help Dogma a bit. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 10:32, 29 July 2013 (CDT)

Hey, thanks for picking up Gakusen Toshi Asterisk. [[Special:Contributions/124.43.120.174|124.43.120.174]] 09:18, 30 July 2013 (CDT)

will you translating gakusen first before madan??? it looks like there's new update at gakusen chapter 1

I have already done it before vol 7 of Madan was released. So for the time being, I will do Madan vol 7 before continuing with gakusen. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 04:25, 31 July 2013 (CDT)

Shouldn't Chapter 3 Volume 7 Title be Inhumane Statesman rather than Villainy of the Statesman? --[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 17:32, 1 August 2013 (CDT)

It could be that. Even I'm not sure of the title yet. I only place that temporarily, but Í think the two has the same sense, right? [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 08:49, 3 August 2013 (CDT)

At best how long does it take you to translate 1 chapter? --[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 17:50, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

I want you to understand that I also work, so I don't have much time to translate; but I do 3 to 4 pages per day, and I have already translate half of the ch1. So if I have to estimate, I will finish the ch 1 in one week. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 18:41, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

Sorry if I offended you in any way possible,what I simply wanted to know is how long it takes you on average basis to translate a chapter.Again I'm truly sorry for offending you if I did. --[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 19:42, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

Ah, it's not like I'm angry or something, I only honestly answer your question. But if you ask the average basis to translate a chapter, it depends on each translator. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 19:40, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

are you planning to complete the translation of full novel before uploading it ?

No, I will certainly post the first chapter on Tuesday. I have already finished translated it, but I did not post it because I wanted first some edit; but well, I will do as usual, that is post it with the link of google drive, before on BT [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 02:50, 8 September 2013 (CDT)

Ohh,ok.thanks for the translations btw

Thank you for your hard work!
-happily waits for Tuesday-

Thank you for the release !! (je ne sais pas où d'autre dire ça)
Khern {{CURRENTTIME}}, {{CURRENTDAY}} {{CURRENTMONTHNAME}} {{CURRENTYEAR}} (CDT)

Hey Satsuna,can I get your permission to translate this Novel in my native language?
--[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 12:38, 23 September 2013 (CDT)

Okay, you can. I have no problem with that. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 14:39, 23 September 2013 (CDT)

When will you post chapter 2? --[[User:Black Ice Prince|Black Ice Prince]] ([[User talk:Black Ice Prince|talk]]) 03:30, 5 October 2013 (CDT)

I will do as usual, that's, post first on google drive, and then on BT. I think I will post on google drive the next week, tuesday or wednesday. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 07:15, 5 October 2013 (CDT)

Is the link to your google drive public? O:

Yeah, I always make it public. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 13:58, 6 October 2013 (CDT)

Umm, this may sound like a stupid question, but where could I find the link?

Your question isn't stupid, since I didn't make the link public yet. I will do it either today (Monday) or tuesday. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 21:24, 6 October 2013 (CDT)

Oh okay, thank you very much! When you make it public, where will you be posting the link, may I ask?

Well, I just make the link public. Here it is: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1R3sJYDPmLB3xG2QnPqDN9ZNl8fMYvsUyCKimDZS0kBM/edit?pli=1 [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 06:22, 7 October 2013 (CDT)

Thank you! Sorry if I came off as pushy. For chapter 1 you also mentioned a google drive link, but I never saw any before you posted to Baka-Tsuki, so I was wondering if you were doing it on some other website.

Hi Setsu! thx for all your work translating many chapter of this great LN, i just wondering, u haven't put any progress update on the register page, have u got any work done? I have no mean to rush your great job, just a bit curious.

I will firsta say this, just in case, but the volume 7 of Madan has only 4 chapters, so I translate them all; I'm waiting for the volume 8 which will be released in December, to continue translating. So to answer your question, I can't put any update, when there is not. Meanwhile, I'm translating Gakusen. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 02:30, 7 November 2013 (CST)

Ah thanks for clearing that for me, i thought there was an epilogue or some other chapter. Well, keep up the good work!

Hej, could you please change the adress for Madan no Ou to Vanadis Vol.7 from http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Madan_no_Ou_Vanadis:Volume_07 to http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_07 because you forgot the TO .

And thanks for the translations, though I change all Jermaine to Germaine, which you first used :) [[User:Hannryou|Hannryou]] ([[User talk:Hannryou#top|talk]]) 22:51, 19 November 2013 (MET)

Hi, thanks for your translations of Madan no Ou to Vanadis. I would like to ask, for Volume 06 Chapter 2, why did you use "ViraltDragonic Tool" instead of the furigana format? Also, would you mind if I changed certain parts of your translations after comparing them to the Chinese translations? Some parts are a little confusing, and I was wondering if I could receive your permission to change it a little. [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 14:37, 29 November 2013 (CST)

First about ViraltDragonic Tool, it's a probably a typo; and yes, you can change certain parts. Actually, it would help a lot, since it was the first complete chapter I began to translate, and there are probably many mistaken. So feel free to change what does not make sense. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 14:58, 29 November 2013 (CST)

Alright, I will make those little changes :D Anyways, thanks a lot for translating this awesome LN. From the moment I started reading it till now, I have been totally hooked. The only reason why it doesn't have more attention is probably because many are unwilling to give it a try even though there is an awesome preview done by EnigmaticAxiom. Hopefully, more will become willing to give this a chance. [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 20:22, 29 November 2013 (CST)

Hey Setsuna86, I am about 3/4 ways through with volume 6 chapter 2, and I must say I am intending to put in quite a few changes. Just wanted to give you a heads up before I proceeded with it, since I think there were quite a few parts where I changed the entire text to something else. I think the Chinese source that I am looking at is pretty reliable, but I still want to ask for your permission once again before carrying on with the TLC. Thanks! [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 08:12, 30 November 2013 (CST)

Like I said, the chapter 2 volume 6 was the first thing I ever translate, so it does not surprise me when you say that you have to change even complete sentences. Besides, in the next chapters of vol6, you may encounter the same problems (but not to the extent of ch2 since the more I was translating, the better I was). So you can change complete sentences if needed I don't mind, rather I think it would be better to do so. But I think for the volume 7, you will only need to edit, since I'm pretty sure that there are no errors in the meaning of the sentences. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 08:46, 30 November 2013 (CST)

Okay! I will do so once I am done with the chapters. I will also help out to TLC the rest of volume 6 as well if you don't mind. Please do not take it in a negative way. I really appreciate what you have done for us! Once again, thank you so much for taking up the translation of Madan no Ou to Vanadis. You have already improved a lot from what I can see, so please keep up the insanely awesome work! We all know that translating is an extremely taxing and time consuming process, not to mention that both English and Japanese isn't your main language used. Therefore, you are awesome! Hahaha! :D [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 10:49, 30 November 2013 (CST)

==Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei==

Thanks for volume 9 ch4, when I find my copy of the book I will try to TLC the bold areas. Do you plan on continuing with translating volume 9? I (and I am sure many of the other eager followers) would be happy to edit/TLC your translations. Thanks again!

Thanks for mahouka ;)

Thanks for mahouka - I hope you continue to TL it :) --[[User:Kai Ran|Kai Ran]] ([[User talk:Kai Ran|talk]]) 16:23, 23 July 2013 (CDT)

Happy to see someone new working on Mahouka! Thanks for the translation! [[User:D4mi3n|d4mi3n]] ([[User talk:D4mi3n|talk]])

== Gakusen Toshi Asterisk ==

Give your impressions of this novel here. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 10:38, 30 July 2013 (CDT)

From what i've read regarding Gakusen Toshi Asterisk it seems to be quite interesting and i'm looking forward to seeing you translate more of it. This is just a trival wish but instead of putting "incomplete" next to the chapter name would it be possible for you to put a rough % of how far through the chapter you've translated instead? [[User:Zeikuu|Zeikuu]] ([[User talk:Zeikuu|talk]]) 05:07, 31 July 2013 (CDT)

Seems interesting, but still too early to be sure. Mahouka is the best for me, do you think to continue or will you concentrate on this one[[User:Ulrick|Ulrick]] 03 August 2013

Its not that important but Gakusen Toshi Asterisk page doesnt show up at main page i found it when looking at mahouka updates to see if new chapter was up and it was at light novels section u cant see it on normal light novels section on main page just a reminder to fix i am a reader dont have an account
also thank you for translating.

For the person above you should collapse the light novels then open it up again. Gakusen isn't on there because that section doesn't update when you open it and maintain that state. I hope what i said makes sense since I don't have great english.

The reason it did not show up on the normal light novels is because until a little while ago it was still considered a teaser project so it was listed under teaser projects, if it still does not show up then just try refreshing the page. Hope that helps.

Thanks Setsuna for picking up this project again. :) --[[User:Chancs|Chancs]] ([[User talk:Chancs|talk]]) 01:06, 31 October 2013 (CDT)

You don't thank me. It's something I have planned to do after finishing translating Madan. I have already finished with the of vol03 ch01, but some errors corrections are needed, so I can't post it now. When finished Madan, I will correct those errors and then post. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 01:33, 31 October 2013 (CDT)

Hi, just want to say that I decide to post the chapters of volume 4 all at once. And I will do so before the release date of Madan, so please be a little patient!!! [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 09:04, 7 January 2014 (CST)

Thanks. Just having fun reading Gakusen Toshi Asterisk. Not done yet but working my merry way through it. [[User:aoi_uchuu|aoi_uchuu]]

== Questions ==

Firstly, thanks for you translations, and a question, do you have blog?

Which do you talk about? If it's about the translation of ch 4 of gakusen, it was done by hiyono (Nandesuto in animesuki). [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 15:02, 12 August 2013 (CDT)

No man, I read in mandan no ou Topic from animesuki that you have blog XD.

Salut, je me posais juste une question : Si tu es français, pourquoi traduis-tu en anglais ? XD
Parce que Baka-Tsuki est majoritairement une communauté anglaise ? 'Fin bref, j'étais juste curieux, personnellement je trouve la lecture anglaise plus fluide, donc ça ne me dérange pas. Bon courage pour la suite. ;) [[User:Kazugaya|Kazugaya]] ([[User talk:Kazugaya|talk]])

Bien, beaucoup de personnes m'ont posé cette question. Comme tu l'as dit, le lecture anglaise est plus fluide. Et je le fais aussi, car c'est un moyen pour moi d'étudier la langue anglaise.
Au fait, je ne sais pas s'il y a beaucoup de lecteurs français des 2 séries sur lesquelles je travaille; mais s'il y en a, je peux traduire ma version anglaise en langue française pour eux s'ils veulent bien. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 09:23, 15 September 2013 (CDT)

Je vois. Je pense que tu peux continuer en anglais, et lorsque tu auras fini tes projets, et si un assez grand nombre de français le demandent, faire une version française. La communauté française n'étant pas encore assez développée, je pense que ça peu attendre. Sinon, perso, pour l'instant j'aime bien Gakusen Toshi Asterisk, mais j'hésite à lire Madan no Ou to Vanadis comme les chapitres sont des previews. Mais si c'est bon, je l'ajouterais à ma liste. [[User:Kazugaya|Kazugaya]] ([[User talk:Kazugaya|talk]]) 10:37, 15 September 2013 (CDT)

User talk:Setsuna86

2014-01-17T01:09:01Z

Aoi uchuu: /* Gakusen Toshi Asterisk */

==Madan no Ou to Vanadis==

awesome stuff dude,btw..par told me that u had ch3 done/on the way too,keep up the good work lolz XD -- [[User:Ways|Ways]]([[User talk:Ways|talk]]) 12:40, 6 May 2013 (CST)

My apologies if this isn't the case, but is the new chapter of Vanadis that was just posted an edited machine translation? It seems a bit...off. --[[User:Hiyono|Hiyono]] ([[User talk:Hiyono|talk]]) 12:14, 6 May 2013 (CDT)

Setsuna's profile says he's French. No matter how good he is at Japanese or English, neither is his first language, more likely than not, so it's not surprising. Either way, he's doing a great job, I think :D --[[User:EnigmaticAxiom|EnigmaticAxiom]] ([[User talk:EnigmaticAxiom|talk]]) 18:26, 6 May 2013 (CST)

I think setsuna picked it up after Xena went MIA and Par stepped down to doing Shikkin and Chaika.(In that Animesuki thread..i think its not machine) [[User:Ways|Ways]]([[User talk:Ways|talk]]) 20:14, 6 May 2013 (CST)

No, it's not a machine translation. I know they are some errors. If you can correct it, please do so. That will help.

Thank you for translating this:)

Hey, setsuna I am dropping by to give you a greeting. BTW, if you want me to help with anything just drop it in my talk page here. --[[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User talk:Par74583|talk]]) 17:03, 8 May 2013 (GMT+7)

Setsuna, Olga's dragonic tool is Muma. BTW, how about u guys hang out in #campione lol, easier to talk and discuss. --[[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User talk:Par74583|talk]]) 20:47, 10 May 2013 (GMT+7)

I would like to finish with this volume first. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 10:31, 29 July 2013 (CDT)

I've only started re-reading ch. 3 just now because I played LoL for a bit(:P) and PAR, I wanna hang out too T_T Where is that? can you give me a link?
B.T.W.setsuna, did you get you username from Houki's I.S.? Setsura?

irc.rizon.net, #campione channel --[[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User talk:Par74583|talk]]) 22:52, 10 May 2013 (GMT+7)

Thank You for your hard work!

Thanks a lot for doing Volume 6 of vanadis. Do you have plans to do Volume 7? [[User:Zeikuu|Zeikuu]] ([[User talk:Zeikuu|talk]]) 19:32, 27 June 2013 (CDT)

I will also do Volume 7. I wait that it is out. For the moment, I do Rakuin no Monsho, to help Dogma a bit. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 10:32, 29 July 2013 (CDT)

Hey, thanks for picking up Gakusen Toshi Asterisk. [[Special:Contributions/124.43.120.174|124.43.120.174]] 09:18, 30 July 2013 (CDT)

will you translating gakusen first before madan??? it looks like there's new update at gakusen chapter 1

I have already done it before vol 7 of Madan was released. So for the time being, I will do Madan vol 7 before continuing with gakusen. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 04:25, 31 July 2013 (CDT)

Shouldn't Chapter 3 Volume 7 Title be Inhumane Statesman rather than Villainy of the Statesman? --[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 17:32, 1 August 2013 (CDT)

It could be that. Even I'm not sure of the title yet. I only place that temporarily, but Í think the two has the same sense, right? [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 08:49, 3 August 2013 (CDT)

At best how long does it take you to translate 1 chapter? --[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 17:50, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

I want you to understand that I also work, so I don't have much time to translate; but I do 3 to 4 pages per day, and I have already translate half of the ch1. So if I have to estimate, I will finish the ch 1 in one week. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 18:41, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

Sorry if I offended you in any way possible,what I simply wanted to know is how long it takes you on average basis to translate a chapter.Again I'm truly sorry for offending you if I did. --[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 19:42, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

Ah, it's not like I'm angry or something, I only honestly answer your question. But if you ask the average basis to translate a chapter, it depends on each translator. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 19:40, 10 August 2013 (CDT)

are you planning to complete the translation of full novel before uploading it ?

No, I will certainly post the first chapter on Tuesday. I have already finished translated it, but I did not post it because I wanted first some edit; but well, I will do as usual, that is post it with the link of google drive, before on BT [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 02:50, 8 September 2013 (CDT)

Ohh,ok.thanks for the translations btw

Thank you for your hard work!
-happily waits for Tuesday-

Thank you for the release !! (je ne sais pas où d'autre dire ça)
Khern {{CURRENTTIME}}, {{CURRENTDAY}} {{CURRENTMONTHNAME}} {{CURRENTYEAR}} (CDT)

Hey Satsuna,can I get your permission to translate this Novel in my native language?
--[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy|talk]]) 12:38, 23 September 2013 (CDT)

Okay, you can. I have no problem with that. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 14:39, 23 September 2013 (CDT)

When will you post chapter 2? --[[User:Black Ice Prince|Black Ice Prince]] ([[User talk:Black Ice Prince|talk]]) 03:30, 5 October 2013 (CDT)

I will do as usual, that's, post first on google drive, and then on BT. I think I will post on google drive the next week, tuesday or wednesday. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 07:15, 5 October 2013 (CDT)

Is the link to your google drive public? O:

Yeah, I always make it public. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 13:58, 6 October 2013 (CDT)

Umm, this may sound like a stupid question, but where could I find the link?

Your question isn't stupid, since I didn't make the link public yet. I will do it either today (Monday) or tuesday. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 21:24, 6 October 2013 (CDT)

Oh okay, thank you very much! When you make it public, where will you be posting the link, may I ask?

Well, I just make the link public. Here it is: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1R3sJYDPmLB3xG2QnPqDN9ZNl8fMYvsUyCKimDZS0kBM/edit?pli=1 [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 06:22, 7 October 2013 (CDT)

Thank you! Sorry if I came off as pushy. For chapter 1 you also mentioned a google drive link, but I never saw any before you posted to Baka-Tsuki, so I was wondering if you were doing it on some other website.

Hi Setsu! thx for all your work translating many chapter of this great LN, i just wondering, u haven't put any progress update on the register page, have u got any work done? I have no mean to rush your great job, just a bit curious.

I will firsta say this, just in case, but the volume 7 of Madan has only 4 chapters, so I translate them all; I'm waiting for the volume 8 which will be released in December, to continue translating. So to answer your question, I can't put any update, when there is not. Meanwhile, I'm translating Gakusen. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 02:30, 7 November 2013 (CST)

Ah thanks for clearing that for me, i thought there was an epilogue or some other chapter. Well, keep up the good work!

Hej, could you please change the adress for Madan no Ou to Vanadis Vol.7 from http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Madan_no_Ou_Vanadis:Volume_07 to http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_07 because you forgot the TO .

And thanks for the translations, though I change all Jermaine to Germaine, which you first used :) [[User:Hannryou|Hannryou]] ([[User talk:Hannryou#top|talk]]) 22:51, 19 November 2013 (MET)

Hi, thanks for your translations of Madan no Ou to Vanadis. I would like to ask, for Volume 06 Chapter 2, why did you use "ViraltDragonic Tool" instead of the furigana format? Also, would you mind if I changed certain parts of your translations after comparing them to the Chinese translations? Some parts are a little confusing, and I was wondering if I could receive your permission to change it a little. [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 14:37, 29 November 2013 (CST)

First about ViraltDragonic Tool, it's a probably a typo; and yes, you can change certain parts. Actually, it would help a lot, since it was the first complete chapter I began to translate, and there are probably many mistaken. So feel free to change what does not make sense. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 14:58, 29 November 2013 (CST)

Alright, I will make those little changes :D Anyways, thanks a lot for translating this awesome LN. From the moment I started reading it till now, I have been totally hooked. The only reason why it doesn't have more attention is probably because many are unwilling to give it a try even though there is an awesome preview done by EnigmaticAxiom. Hopefully, more will become willing to give this a chance. [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 20:22, 29 November 2013 (CST)

Hey Setsuna86, I am about 3/4 ways through with volume 6 chapter 2, and I must say I am intending to put in quite a few changes. Just wanted to give you a heads up before I proceeded with it, since I think there were quite a few parts where I changed the entire text to something else. I think the Chinese source that I am looking at is pretty reliable, but I still want to ask for your permission once again before carrying on with the TLC. Thanks! [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 08:12, 30 November 2013 (CST)

Like I said, the chapter 2 volume 6 was the first thing I ever translate, so it does not surprise me when you say that you have to change even complete sentences. Besides, in the next chapters of vol6, you may encounter the same problems (but not to the extent of ch2 since the more I was translating, the better I was). So you can change complete sentences if needed I don't mind, rather I think it would be better to do so. But I think for the volume 7, you will only need to edit, since I'm pretty sure that there are no errors in the meaning of the sentences. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 08:46, 30 November 2013 (CST)

Okay! I will do so once I am done with the chapters. I will also help out to TLC the rest of volume 6 as well if you don't mind. Please do not take it in a negative way. I really appreciate what you have done for us! Once again, thank you so much for taking up the translation of Madan no Ou to Vanadis. You have already improved a lot from what I can see, so please keep up the insanely awesome work! We all know that translating is an extremely taxing and time consuming process, not to mention that both English and Japanese isn't your main language used. Therefore, you are awesome! Hahaha! :D [[User:Royaloyalz|Royaloyalz]] ([[User talk:Royaloyalz|talk]]) 10:49, 30 November 2013 (CST)

==Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei==

Thanks for volume 9 ch4, when I find my copy of the book I will try to TLC the bold areas. Do you plan on continuing with translating volume 9? I (and I am sure many of the other eager followers) would be happy to edit/TLC your translations. Thanks again!

Thanks for mahouka ;)

Thanks for mahouka - I hope you continue to TL it :) --[[User:Kai Ran|Kai Ran]] ([[User talk:Kai Ran|talk]]) 16:23, 23 July 2013 (CDT)

Happy to see someone new working on Mahouka! Thanks for the translation! [[User:D4mi3n|d4mi3n]] ([[User talk:D4mi3n|talk]])

== Gakusen Toshi Asterisk ==

Give your impressions of this novel here. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 10:38, 30 July 2013 (CDT)

From what i've read regarding Gakusen Toshi Asterisk it seems to be quite interesting and i'm looking forward to seeing you translate more of it. This is just a trival wish but instead of putting "incomplete" next to the chapter name would it be possible for you to put a rough % of how far through the chapter you've translated instead? [[User:Zeikuu|Zeikuu]] ([[User talk:Zeikuu|talk]]) 05:07, 31 July 2013 (CDT)

Seems interesting, but still too early to be sure. Mahouka is the best for me, do you think to continue or will you concentrate on this one[[User:Ulrick|Ulrick]] 03 August 2013

Its not that important but Gakusen Toshi Asterisk page doesnt show up at main page i found it when looking at mahouka updates to see if new chapter was up and it was at light novels section u cant see it on normal light novels section on main page just a reminder to fix i am a reader dont have an account
also thank you for translating.

For the person above you should collapse the light novels then open it up again. Gakusen isn't on there because that section doesn't update when you open it and maintain that state. I hope what i said makes sense since I don't have great english.

The reason it did not show up on the normal light novels is because until a little while ago it was still considered a teaser project so it was listed under teaser projects, if it still does not show up then just try refreshing the page. Hope that helps.

Thanks Setsuna for picking up this project again. :) --[[User:Chancs|Chancs]] ([[User talk:Chancs|talk]]) 01:06, 31 October 2013 (CDT)

You don't thank me. It's something I have planned to do after finishing translating Madan. I have already finished with the of vol03 ch01, but some errors corrections are needed, so I can't post it now. When finished Madan, I will correct those errors and then post. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 01:33, 31 October 2013 (CDT)

Hi, just want to say that I decide to post the chapters of volume 4 all at once. And I will do so before the release date of Madan, so please be a little patient!!! [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 09:04, 7 January 2014 (CST)

Thanks. Just having fun reading Gakusen Toshi Asterisk. Not done yet but working my merry way through it.

== Questions ==

Firstly, thanks for you translations, and a question, do you have blog?

Which do you talk about? If it's about the translation of ch 4 of gakusen, it was done by hiyono (Nandesuto in animesuki). [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 15:02, 12 August 2013 (CDT)

No man, I read in mandan no ou Topic from animesuki that you have blog XD.

Salut, je me posais juste une question : Si tu es français, pourquoi traduis-tu en anglais ? XD
Parce que Baka-Tsuki est majoritairement une communauté anglaise ? 'Fin bref, j'étais juste curieux, personnellement je trouve la lecture anglaise plus fluide, donc ça ne me dérange pas. Bon courage pour la suite. ;) [[User:Kazugaya|Kazugaya]] ([[User talk:Kazugaya|talk]])

Bien, beaucoup de personnes m'ont posé cette question. Comme tu l'as dit, le lecture anglaise est plus fluide. Et je le fais aussi, car c'est un moyen pour moi d'étudier la langue anglaise.
Au fait, je ne sais pas s'il y a beaucoup de lecteurs français des 2 séries sur lesquelles je travaille; mais s'il y en a, je peux traduire ma version anglaise en langue française pour eux s'ils veulent bien. [[User:Setsuna86|Setsuna86]] ([[User talk:Setsuna86#top|talk]]) 09:23, 15 September 2013 (CDT)

Je vois. Je pense que tu peux continuer en anglais, et lorsque tu auras fini tes projets, et si un assez grand nombre de français le demandent, faire une version française. La communauté française n'étant pas encore assez développée, je pense que ça peu attendre. Sinon, perso, pour l'instant j'aime bien Gakusen Toshi Asterisk, mais j'hésite à lire Madan no Ou to Vanadis comme les chapitres sont des previews. Mais si c'est bon, je l'ajouterais à ma liste. [[User:Kazugaya|Kazugaya]] ([[User talk:Kazugaya|talk]]) 10:37, 15 September 2013 (CDT)

User:Aoi uchuu

2014-01-17T00:47:16Z

Aoi uchuu: Created page with "Hajimemashita. I have read many short novels at Baka-Tsuki over the years. During this time I have been editing (both graphically and phonetically, as some of the early tra..."

Hajimemashita.

I have read many short novels at Baka-Tsuki over the years.

During this time I have been editing (both graphically and phonetically, as some of the early translations can be rough) manga for various groups.

Also during this time I learned, likely only first grade-school level, Japanese. (kana but few kanji so no help there) I am a great fan of world culture, especially Japanese, and feel that if we can understand each other we can live in peace with the economic benefits from that.

After a reading some of the popular novels and I got even more bored and started reading the rest.

At some point felt that it would be nice to edit some of the translations, much in the same way I did for manga.

My strengths are not just vocabulary and grammar but sometimes an artful way to say things with phrases, parables and slang. (and use a spell checker for the rest...)

I don't mind being corrected. The only important thing is to edit in respect to the author's prose, character expression and setting descriptions.

I would like to encourage translators to include a hard to understand word or cultural saying, even if they don't fit in the sentence.

Its sometimes a great fun puzzle to decipher a paragraph or sentence knowing that just that one word or place-name, that did not originally make sense, can mean an whole new paraphrase or change of wording.

Absolute Duo:Volume 2 Chapter 3

2014-01-13T00:27:53Z

Aoi uchuu: Words, phrases and grammar.

==Chapter 3 『That Is a Good Idea』==

===Part 1===

After exiting the school gate and crossing the small bridge, the only connection to the outer world to the students attending Kouryou academy ---------is a monorail for authorized personal only.

In a distance that doesn’t even take 5 minutes; the suspended type monorail is connected to a nearby JR station<ref group ="2c">Japan Railway station</ref> of Tokyo and Chiba from the front of the school.

When we boarded the railway car, there were only a small number of people riding inside.

Since school academy personnel were the only ones able to use it in the first place, it's only natural to say the number of users are few.

Thanks to that, we're grateful to find empty seats without fighting over them.

“This is somehow heart throbbing isn’t it?”

Sitting in the opposite side of the box seat, Yurie said while looking outside the window.

“I see. It’s the first time you visited a Japanese city.”

“Ya---. That is why I am looking forward to it.”

Yurie moved her viewpoint, from the sea outside the window--------, to me and nodded.

(It might be good to take a breather like this once in a while……….)

I took a side look at Yurie, who returned to her sightseeing at the sea again, and *Fuu* leaked a smile.

Incidentally, Yurie and I were in uniform even though it was Sunday.

It’s not like there is a school rule saying we have to wear the school uniform when going out of the school.

It’s simply just because Yurie doesn't have any clothes to match the May weather, and I followed her.

(However, this placement relation sure feels nostalgic. Well, it’s probably because I've gotten too used to it.)

Normally, I would be with Yurie side by side with our shoulders close to each other when we usually watch television--------and depending on the situation, we would be sitting side by side within a certain distance, I could feel the warmth from us almost touching each other.

It's also the same case when we attend classes and at the cafeteria.

That is why I feel strange sitting in front of her and would accidentally fix my stare at her.

This foreign beauty directing her {{Furigana|red eyes|Ruby eyes}} outside the window.

Her {{Furigana|silver hair|Silver blonde}}, which no one would turn away from and would stare amazed, was beautifully swaying.

Because there's a lack of expression shown on her well-featured face, it makes one think of her as a delicate bisque doll.

But I know this normal girl has something aside from those truths.

---Inside that heart holds a dark emotion known as revenge.

The same darkness as me.

Maybe------That night was just a dream, I would think something like that.

However, I felt hesitant to put that matter in my mouth again.

That’s because I didn’t want to admit Yurie holds the same hatred as me and is someone that wishes for revenge.

“-----Tooru?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Chirin* the echoing bell brought me back.

She has probably called out to me many times already. Yurie was looking at me while tilting her head.

“We're going to arrive soon."

“Ah…………I-I see.”

Before I knew it, almost as soon as we departed, the monorail was close to reaching its destination.

In the middle of slowly entering the platform, Yurie got up from her seat.

“Yurie, it’s better to stand up once we arrive.”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Gakon*.

Almost at the same time of my warning, the monorail was close to stopping and was swaying.

“Ah……..”

My warning was useless and Yurie’s balance collapsed, making her fall on her butt.

…………on top of my lap.

Her hair swayed and a nice smell tickled my nasal cavity.

“Th-that’s why I told you.”

“Ya-Ya-----……..”

After I said that while feeling a little embarrassed, Yurie also hanged her head downwards in embarrassment.

“I will be careful from now on. Alright then, let’s get off.”

After I stood up, I extended my hand to Yurie.

Although I once extended out my hands to her in the clock tower last time, including this time, having her hands weighted on mine felt very embarrassing.

After getting out the station we transferred to the JR route, following what Miyabi taught me, and got off after one station.

From there, after walking for around 5 minutes, we reached our destination the A La Mode but------

Once, the A La Mode was the biggest shopping mall in Japan (According to Miyabi’s information), although that status has been taken by another place, the number of customers didn't decrease and is filled with many people during holidays.

“…………….It’s like a festival.”

Although it can’t be said to be wide, Yurie opened her mouth in amazement and looked around.

“Tooru isn’t really that shocked.”

“That’s because there was a big mall in my hometown. Well, let’s see the floor guide and confirm the location of the shop for now.”

“Ya---…………..”

I urged Yurie, who was still a little blank and the moment, as I opened the guide map I took from a nearby help kiosk, I furrowed my eyebrows in bewilderment.

“What is this…………..”

The guide map is oddly thick, as it spans 8 pages even though it is just introducing the floors; with a total of more than 500 plus shop names written in it.

(I heard there are a lot of shops but, I didn’t think it would be this many……………)

“Tooru, Is something wrong?”

While I was dumbfounded, Yurie tip-toed while peeking into the guide map.

She then grabbed my sleeves to take balance and her peeking form makes me think of her as a small animal.

“Ah, sorry. Let’s look at this while sitting nearby.”

After saying that, I sat on a nearby stool with Yurie.

“This is…………….I have no idea what's going on in this at all.”

“A-aah…………As expected, it’s normal to think that.”

She brought her body closer, defenselessly as usual, and stuck on my lap making me feel, in my mind, slightly excited .

However, Yurie does not seem bothered by this at all and flipped the page but------

“It’s too many, so I don’t know where we should go…………….”

And like that, she made a troubled face.

The only information in the index are the shops name and position code. What’s more, it’s not like the places are positioned in the west, south, north hall respectively since it also expands to the first and second floor; thanks to that, just like what Yurie said, we have no idea where we should go.

“U---n…………. Let’s walk around randomly for now. Since there are this many shops, I think we would find something of interest sooner or later.”

I stood up and the moment I was about to start walking, I recalled something and turned back.

“Yurie, please be careful not to get separated because of the crowd.”

“Ya---“

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Koku**koku* Yurie nodded and grabbed my sleeves tightly.

“I won’t get separated like this.”

Yurie said that with satisfaction while making a small smile.

“Th-that’s true………”

It’s not like the level of holding hands, but this is embarrassing in its own way.

However, that feeling immediately disappeared somewhere once we started walking.

Inside, amongst the hustle and bustle, the many people we passed by looked at us and I could hear topics about Yurie.

["Hey, isn’t that girl really beautiful?"] ["A celebrity?"] ["I’ll take a photo and upload it"] ["Oh, she has a guy…….."] ["The Blondie just now was good too but, this is good in its own way………."]

There were a lot of reactions but, most of it regarding Yurie.

But, while I meant most of it, it means all of it wasn’t that.

["They are wearing school uniforms though; I wonder which school they are from?"] ["Don’t know? I never seen that before…………."]

It’s only normal they don’t know.

Unless there is a good reason, Kouryou students are not allowed to go out other than weekends.

And even if they were to go out on a weekend, there probably isn’t any commendable students that would go out wearing a school uniform.

Only the school name could be heard at best.

Even for myself, if I hadn’t heard about the existence of the school beforehand then, not only would I have no idea about the internal conditions of the school, I wouldn't even know the school’s name in the first place.

(That’s because it’s a school with that kind of enrollment ceremony.)

Although it is a school lacking common sense when half of the number of students dropped out from the enrollment ceremony, it’s also weird that this school is not known to the public.

Mikuni-sensei said that information regulations were imposed, but it would probably be just a rumor at most.

And when I was thinking things like that, my sleeves was *gui**gui* being pulled.

“Tooru, how about that shop?”

“Ah……. You’re right, that’s a cute shirt………..I guess?”

I was often brought by my sister------Otoha to buy things but, I have absolutely no idea about girl's clothing.

But, judging from the shop display, it’s true that I feel it would suit Yurie.

Like that, we tried entering this shop for now but-------

“I think this suits her. How about it, boyfriend-san?”

“Eh!? Ah………. No, no, no. I am not her boyfriend…………!”

When we were looking around for clothes, a female shop attendant came over and said those lines; even though I hurried and denied it, she just giggled.

I probably made her think I was trying to trick her due to embarrassment.

A male and a female together, what’s more even though we entered the shop and started looking at clothes, Yurie was still grabbing my sleeves and it’s true that it isn’t strange for her to misunderstand.

Rather, even if I am a 3rd person here, we definitely would be thought of as a couple.

“I will go try on the clothes now.”

Yurie left with those words taking several summer clothes, recommended by the shop attendant, before entering the changing room.

“Fufu, she’s a very cute girlfriend!”

“Y-yeah………”

I gave up denying since anything I do will be useless and made a nod mixed with a wry smile.

Checking on her status, I made a small sigh while making a side glance at the shop attendant who came over to see us with the purpose of sticking her nose into our business, and began regretting coming here with the two of us only.

(It would have been better if everyone was together…………)

Miyabi is probably out playing with Tachibana somewhere.

Tora headed out somewhere so I couldn’t find him.

Tatsu is working hard in his muscle training.

…………and while I was recalling that back, the curtain slightly opened and Yurie suddenly brought her face out.

“Tooru. I have finished changing……..can you see it?”

“I’ll say this just in case; don’t expect a good sense from me.”

“Ya---. It is okay.”

I don’t know what she meant by "it's okay" but Yurie nodded and opened the curtain wider.

[Uoo……….][Oh my………..]

The shop attendant and I let out a shocked voice at the same time and Yurie silently showed herself.

The clothe Yurie tried on was a cooling, basic, white, one piece.

The sleeves were opened wide and the arranged white lace has emphasized the girlishness.

“What’s wrong, Tooru?”

“A-aah……………errr, I think it suits you very well…………..”

“Thank you very much. I will buy this then.”

“You decide too fast!!..............wait, isn’t it at least better to try some of the others first before deciding?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Un**un*The shop attendant beside me nodded.

Rather than doing it for her job, her expression is saying to try more clothes on.

“I understand………….but I decided to buy this one.”

After saying that, she closed the curtain once more and we waited a few more minutes.

“Tooru. What do you think about this?”

It's black this time, opposite to the one piece from just now. Looking at that figure, the attendant and I made an sound of admiration again.

The skirt was short and it has a lot of frills as its characteristic, thanks to it being black, it made Yurie’s silver hair attractive and it suited her very much.

“Err………I think it’s nice. Extremely.”

“Ya---. I think I will buy this too then.”

Maybe she liked my response, Yurie slightly narrowed her eyes and confined herself within the changing room a third time.

She then showed herself not long later, and the clothes this time again suited her.

“How about this?”

“It looks refreshing so why not?”

“Ya---, it is very soothing. Well, this too……………”

She bought all 3 clothes she tried in the end.

“E-erm. If it’s okay with you, will you try other clothes? For my eyes recuperation………..not that, I think it will suit miss customer and we have a lot of cute clothes too”

“Errr………..what will you do, Yurie? Will you try it on?”

“Ya--. If Tooru says so.”

…………it was a mistake to go with this flow.

“…………….Yurie. Don’t you think you are buying too much?”

While staring at the 12 clothing items, stacked up like a mountain on the counter, I made a comeback just in case.

Looking at the pile of clothes she tried on, as they started entering the list of purchase, I thought she bought too many as expected and if I did not tell her it’s about time we should head to other shops then I would have no idea what would have happened.

“Nai. I am only buying the clothes Tooru said is nice.”

“N-no, it’s true I said them but, I think all of it is just a little…………..”

“But, this one looks very matching and this one is very nice, this one is cooling and-------“

Yurie lined up my comments one by one without making any mistakes.

After saying everything until the last 12th clothes-----

“As expected, I will buy all.”

In the end, Yurie announced herself as a very good miss customer.

Although the shop attendant opened her eyes wide when we said to buy 12 clothes (+3 pair of shoes), she made an even more shocked expression when we told her we would pay with a credit card.

She probably would have never thought students like us would pay with a card.

But the instant we handed the student card which also has the function of a credit card in it, ["Aah, it’s that school………….."] the attendant muttered.

I became curious on how she knew about it and asked her. It seems several people like us come over here to buy stuff every year.

However, we were the first ones to purchase this large of an amount.

Incidentally, the moment I heard the total amount of money, my eyes were almost going to pop out but this is a secret.

Luckily it was within allowance range so there wasn’t any problem.

“Alright then, now that we finished buying clothes, what should we do now?”

“--------? Weren’t we going to other shops to see the clothes?”

“………………..no, I’ll give up on that for today.”

It was not hard to imagine the same result if we go to another shop.

It would be faster if I say it doesn’t suit her but, the foundation material is good---------rather that, Yurie was so good looking, to the point that, any clothes she wears suits her naturally.

More importantly, it is impossible for me to twist my thoughts and tell Yurie.

In front of the small happy expression she shows when I say it suits her, there is no way I can lie.

“So, should we head back?”

“U-nn………well since we are outside, let’s wander around for a bit then.”

“Ya--. That’s true.”

Nonetheless, as expected, we had a lot of baggage so we decided to stop at the delivery counter first.

“Well, where should we go, Tooru?”

Right after we finished our delivery and lightened the load, we then decided to look around the north hall from one corner to the other.

As if it was natural for her, Yurie grabbed my sleeves and walked beside me.

Although it was more or less embarrassing for me at the beginning, we talked with each other while looking at the shops until I naturally forgot about it.

After that, Yurie looked at the ferret in the pet shop nearby with her eyes glittering, and played a free to play virtual game in one corner of the game shop; we were passing a fun and peaceful time enough for us to forget the tough training we go through regularly.

“Now that I think back, Miyabi told me the gelato on the first floor is recommended.”

“……………gelato huh. If Miyabi recommended it then, I want to try heading there but…………..”

As a late lunch, when Yurie was about to start her pumpkin cream pasta and fondant chocolate as dessert, I recalled the talk Miyabi told me.

Even Yurie isn't an exception to girlishness. It seems Yurie also loves sweets and she often changes expressions with the desserts that come out from the cafeteria.

That is why it's only normal for her to think she wants to try something after hearing about it as a recommendation but------

Since Yurie eats little in the first place, it is clear that she will lose the space for the gelato once she eats the chocolate; she knows that herself and dropped her shoulders from what I can see.

It will probably be alright after some time, but the influence would probably come back during dinner time this time if we were to do that.

“……………why don’t we try buying as much gelato as you can eat for now? If you cannot finish then I will eat the leftovers.”

Because of me forgetting, her disappointed look was really pitiful and after I brought up an idea-------

“That is a good idea.”

Yurie brought out a happy atmosphere.

I unintentionally leaked a smile from that expression.

(This is good, this is good……….)

And like that, my thoughts were hastily over.

“Tooru. Just in case, can you eat this chocolate?”

“Aah, I don’t mind.”

Yurie proposed this when it was half eaten.

Of course, since there is no reason to refuse, it was alright until I nodded but-------

“Please open your mouth.”

“Huh?”

“Like I said, please open your mouth.”

She lifted, with her fork, one mouth-full sized scoop of fondant chocolate, wrapped in cold ice, placing right it in front of me.

“…………….Are you perhaps going to feed me?”

“Ya—♪Ahnn”

“N-no, doing that in front of people is a little……….”

“----? Miyabi often does this to me?”

But that is between girls.

And we are of the opposite sex.

I know Yurie has no other intentions, but it can’t be helped for me to feel resistant to her actions, rather I think it's only normal to do so.

“Errrr…………”

Luckily, there weren't many people in the shop since it's off from lunch time, and thanks to there being many dividing panels, it's not like people can see us. It's unacceptable in that there was window but, since there is an atrium on the first floor in front of the 3 story building instead of a road, we aren't likely to be noticed from outside.

(Well, I guess this situation is alright…………?)

“------?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Chirin* the bell rang as if to urge me. And of course, Yurie doesn’t any intentions of making me hurry.

“I-I get it. Then…………..”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Ahhn* I opened my mouth wide as I was told and ate the chocolate.

(I’m glad everyone didn’t come………….)

Just now, I was thinking a completely different thing than from the tailor shop earlier.

“Tooru, here you go.”

“Eh? Again?”

“Ya---. There is still too much left. So, Ahhnn”

“Hahaha……okay.”

In the end, I was fed around 8 times and there was one time when the shop attendant there saw us and giggled making it an awkward situation.

But------

I then found out the really problematic situation happened right after that.

“Tooru, Ahhn”

Between the south and north hall-------in a place called Harbor Street where many people pasts by, Yurie brought the gelato to my mouth.

“………eh?”

“It's very delicious so I am sharing with you. That’s why Tooru, please. Ahnnn”

Inside, within the presence of a crowd of people, Yurie smiled as if she was not bothered about them at all.

Of course, it was only natural for me to be bothered about the sights from our surroundings.

“----Tooru?”

She tilted her small head-----

“Ya-yaa-----………”

I answered powerlessly and let her fed me the gelato……….

===Part 2===

Tooru and Yurie. Unless one knows about their situation they could only be seen as an intimate couple, and there were shadows watching those 2 from afar.

It was Tomoe and Miyabi.

Having asked Tooru and Yurie’s departure time indirectly during breakfast, Miyabi and Tomoe reached the closest station near the A La Mode shopping mall one hour before those 2 did.

From that point on, the both of them were, sneakily, following them from behind; They acted as if they were buying things at a shop nearby the one Yurie had tried on her clothes in---------(Miyabi actually bought something)------. This time they were hiding, and peeping from, in a sports shop located some ways across from the atrium where Yurie and Tooru were eating at.

“Mi-Miyabi. Are those 2 really not going out with each other……….?”

“U-un…………..Tooru-kun said that………..”

“I see………. No, but……………”

During eating and this time in a manner of not bothering the public eye----------(Miyabi and Tomoe saw it like this)-------Tooru was being fed gelato by Yurie.

Looking at those two, Miyabi and Tomoe panicked together.

“To-To-To-Tomoe-chan. That’s errrr…………..not an illicit relationship right………..?”

“N-no, i-it isn’t sexual conduct so……………..”

There are probably those in this society that might call these actions by a couple stupid but, at the very least it isn’t any kind of an illicit relationship.

Thanks to that they could not cut in and intrude on them, only making both of them getting more and more agitated, because they couldn't take any other actions other than watch over them.

However, the both of them were suddenly called out by a voice.

“Both of you are alone?”

“Eh………..?”

When they looked over, there were 4 guys standing there.

They were obviously picking up girls.

["If it is okay you two, want to play with us?"]["Both of you are cute. High school student? From what school?"] ["Kouryouu?"]["I know where. It’s the place nearby popular with martial arts."]

The confirmation this guy made about Kouryou academy wasn't wrong.

A private school with a dormitory system, with a power structure placed within martial arts, graduation would link to an employment from the secret service.

Leaving no school services supplied by the public, because of the secret regulations from the Dawn organization, it is impossible for there to be any eye catching general information left inside people’s memories.

Even if the <<Luciful>> or <<Blaze>> has been turned into a rumor, it would probably be interpreted as absurd nonsense at most.

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 2 Non-Colour 3.jpg|thumb]]

Unless they have definite proof it would not leave the realm of rumor, even if it was real.

Naturally, since this was also made to be fully aware to the students that go out, during the filling for permission to go out, they are not to cause any trouble outside, they are not to manifest their <<Blaze>> and etc; it was an outing with many restrictions.

By any chance that any of those rules were broken; a strict punishment will be given but------

“Heeh, by martial arts is it judo or karate? So you all are doing that too?”

“Ye-yeah…….”

Miyabi and Tomoe were agitated by the sudden pick up and answered the persons question honestly.

“That’s nice. Then, teach us some pinning skills too.”

“……………..no thanks. Let’s go, Miyabi.”

Finally at this moment, Tomoe recognized the guys’ intentions and even though she took Miyabi and left the spot-----

“That’s so cold. A little is fine. We won’t do anything strange.”

A guy then grabbed Miyabi’s arm and pulled hard.

“Ah…………..”

Scared--------the moment she felt that, her body moved by reflex.

“Le-let go……….!”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Don* Miyabi thrust the guy away.

Normally, he would stagger a bit but-------

Since her arm strength is exceedingly stronger than a normal person because of the <<Luciful>>, the guy fell over pathetically.

["Haha, lame!"]["Shut up! My balance just collapsed!!"]

The fallen over guy shouted at his comrades who were laughing loudly.

Luckily, he was just grazed.

“Oi, oi. Give me a break from violence.”

“Your side was the ones getting violent first. It’s true that, thrusting him away was too much though………………”

Although Tomoe entered between Miyabi and the leader, her voice tone was weak as expected.

Naturally, the person did not let that slip by.

“If you think it was too much then, isn’t it okay for you two to go out with us to reconcile?”

“I-I refuse! I will apologize but, this and that are different!!”

“To-Tomoe-chan……………”

Tomoe whispered ''It’s alright'', to Miyabi who was seeming to become smaller behind Tomoe.

(I have no problems with this number of people alone……….!)

That awareness, made Tomoe’s feelings stronger even if it turns into a fight.

However, Tomoe’s response does not feel nice to the guys and after the guy Miyabi thrust away joined back, the guys stand and surrounded both of them like a wall.

At that moment, someone Miyabi and Tomoe was familiar with, pushed through the crowd of people and appeared.

“Stop it you bastards!!”

["What is it!?"]["Who the hell are you!!"]

Tooru was the one who stood in front of the guys.

Luckily, since they were nearby, he heard Miyabi and Tomoe’s voice and ran over here.

“These two are with me. I’ll listen if you have any problems.”

["To-Tooru-kun………."]["Kokonoe………..!"]

Both of them called Tooru’s name and was a little relieved.

["He says they are with him."]["Looks real."]["What should we do?"]

On the other hand, the guys were looking at each other on what to do next from the appearance of the person who named himself as one of them-------

“Miyabi, Tomoe, are you two okay?”

At that moment, they made their decision when Yurie joined.

["Wow. She’s super cute………."]["This girl is also with him?"]["The so called Harem?"]["I feel a little pissed][What should we do?"]["Obviously---"]

At the same time with the leader saying that, the guys slightly lowered their hips.

“Let’s give him a light one!”

“-----!!”

The guys move at the same time.

It was somewhat surprising------- but nonetheless, it still looks like it was in slow motion to Tooru who has sublimated to <<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>>.

(I have no choice then; I’ll give them a light one then run away.)

''I’ll push them down so they won’t get hurt I guess'', it was that moment Tooru decided that.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Taan*…………!! A dry sound from far away-----a ''gunshot'' echoed in the harbor street.

Almost at the same time, one guy that was going to punch Tooru, fell down as if he was flicked away.

“Eh…………?”

In astonishment, the voice of the person who muttered that was unknown.

However, faster than everyone in the spot-------including Tooru and the group------faster than them understanding what happened, another gunshot echoed and another guy collapsed.

“Wha…….!?”

“Tooru, That’s…………!!”

Further ahead of Yurie’s sights-----around 100 meters away standing on top of the 3rd floors balcony, Tooru saw the owner who made the gunshot.

A girl with long gorgeous shining {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}}.

Her hand was holding a-------black long barrel <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

(Lealith!? And that’s-------------<<Blaze>>!?)

During the time Tooru was opening his eyes in shock, Lealith then pulled the trigger making the 3rd shot then 4th shot in an instant and all of the guys collapsed.

In the middle of the sights looking at the guys suddenly collapsing at their surroundings, Tooru and Yurie was looking at the gold girl-------and was unable to take their eyes away from the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> she was holding.

The thought that revived in his mind, was the talk that was taught in class last time.

'''“The <<Blaze>> cannot be manifested as a weapon with complex structure”'''

That talk wasn’t a lie and, '''a <<Gun>> type <<Blaze>> is impossible originally'''.

But the <<Blaze>> being shown in Tooru and the group’s sights was unmistakably a <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

Lealith made her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> disappear and turned her heels around.

While looking at the {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} walking into the balcony, Tooru muttered.

“<<Exception>>………..”

<noinclude>

==Translation Notes and References==
<references group="2c" />

{{SimpleNav}}
</noinclude>

Absolute Duo:Volume 2 Chapter 3

2014-01-11T16:35:49Z

Aoi uchuu: More words, phrases and grammar.

==Chapter 3 『That Is a Good Idea』==

===Part 1===

After exiting the school gate and crossing the small bridge, the only connection to the outer world to the students attending Kouryou academy ---------is a monorail for authorized personal only.

In a distance that doesn’t even take 5 minutes; the suspended type monorail is connected to a nearby JR station<ref group ="2c">Japan Railway station</ref> of Tokyo and Chiba from the front of the school.

When we boarded the railway car, there were only a small number of people riding inside.

Since school academy personnel were the only ones able to use it in the first place, it's only natural to say the number of users are few.

Thanks to that, we're grateful to find empty seats without fighting over them.

“This is somehow heart throbbing isn’t it?”

Sitting in the opposite side of the box seat, Yurie said while looking outside the window.

“I see. It’s the first time you visited a Japanese city.”

“Ya---. That is why I am looking forward to it.”

Yurie moved her viewpoint, from the sea outside the window--------, to me and nodded.

(It might be good to take a breather like this once in a while……….)

I took a side look at Yurie, who returned to her sightseeing at the sea again, and *Fuu* leaked a smile.

Incidentally, Yurie and I were in uniform even though it was Sunday.

It’s not like there is a school rule saying we have to wear the school uniform when going out of the school.

It’s simply just because Yurie doesn't have any clothes to match the May weather, and I followed her.

(However, this placement relation sure feels nostalgic. Well, it’s probably because I've gotten too used to it.)

Normally, I would be with Yurie side by side with our shoulders close to each other when we usually watch television--------and depending on the situation, we would be sitting side by side within a certain distance, I could feel the warmth from us almost touching each other.

It's also the same case when we attend classes and at the cafeteria.

That is why I feel strange sitting in front of her and would accidentally fix my stare at her.

This foreign beauty directing her {{Furigana|red eyes|Ruby eyes}} outside the window.

Her {{Furigana|silver hair|Silver blonde}}, which no one would turn away from and would stare amazed, was beautifully swaying.

Because there's a lack of expression shown on her well-featured face, it makes one think of her as a delicate bisque doll.

But I know this normal girl has something aside from those truths.

---Inside that heart holds a dark emotion known as revenge.

The same darkness as me.

Maybe------That night was just a dream, I would think something like that.

However, I felt hesitant to put that matter in my mouth again.

That’s because I didn’t want to admit Yurie holds the same hatred as me and is someone that wishes for revenge.

“-----Tooru?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Chirin* the echoing bell brought me back.

She has probably called out to me many times already. Yurie was looking at me while tilting her head.

“We're going to arrive soon."

“Ah…………I-I see.”

Before I knew it, almost as soon as we departed, the monorail was close to reaching its destination.

In the middle of slowly entering the platform, Yurie got up from her seat.

“Yurie, it’s better to stand up once we arrive.”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Gakon*.

Almost at the same time of my warning, the monorail was close to stopping and was swaying.

“Ah……..”

My warning was useless and Yurie’s balance collapsed, making her fall on her butt.

…………on top of my lap.

Her hair swayed and a nice smell tickled my nasal cavity.

“Th-that’s why I told you.”

“Ya-Ya-----……..”

After I said that while feeling a little embarrassed, Yurie also hanged her head downwards in embarrassment.

“I will be careful from now on. Alright then, let’s get off.”

After I stood up, I extended my hand to Yurie.

Although I once extended out my hands to her in the clock tower last time, including this time, having her hands weighted on mine felt very embarrassing.

After getting out the station we transferred to the JR route, following what Miyabi taught me, and got off after one station.

From there, after walking for around 5 minutes, we reached our destination the A La Mode but------

Once, the A La Mode was the biggest shopping mall in Japan (According to Miyabi’s information), although that status has been taken by another place, the number of customers didn't decrease and is filled with many people during holidays.

“…………….It’s like a festival.”

Although it can’t be said to be wide, Yurie opened her mouth in amazement and looked around.

“Tooru isn’t really that shocked.”

“That’s because there was a big mall in my hometown. Well, let’s see the floor guide and confirm the location of the shop for now.”

“Ya---…………..”

I urged Yurie, who was still a little blank and the moment, as I opened the guide map I took from a nearby help kiosk, I furrowed my eyebrows in bewilderment.

“What is this…………..”

The guide map is oddly thick, as it spans 8 pages even though it is just introducing the floors; with a total of more than 500 plus shop names written in it.

(I heard there are a lot of shops but, I didn’t think it would be this many……………)

“Tooru, Is something wrong?”

While I was dumbfounded, Yurie tip-toed while peeking into the guide map.

She then grabbed my sleeves to take balance and her peeking form makes me think of her as a small animal.

“Ah, sorry. Let’s look at this while sitting nearby.”

After saying that, I sat on a nearby stool with Yurie.

“This is…………….I have no idea what's going on in this at all.”

“A-aah…………As expected, it’s normal to think that.”

She brought her body closer, defenselessly as usual, and stuck on my lap making me feel, in my mind, slightly excited .

However, Yurie does not seem bothered by this at all and flipped the page but------

“It’s too many, so I don’t know where we should go…………….”

And like that, she made a troubled face.

The only information in the index are the shops name and position code. What’s more, it’s not like the places are positioned in the west, south, north hall respectively since it also expands to the first and second floor; thanks to that, just like what Yurie said, we have no idea where we should go.

“U---n…………. Let’s walk around randomly for now. Since there are this many shops, I think we would find something of interest sooner or later.”

I stood up and the moment I was about to start walking, I recalled something and turned back.

“Yurie, please be careful not to get separated because of the crowd.”

“Ya---“

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Koku**koku* Yurie nodded and grabbed my sleeves tightly.

“I won’t get separated like this.”

Yurie said that with satisfaction while making a small smile.

“Th-that’s true………”

It’s not like the level of holding hands, but this is embarrassing in its own way.

However, that feeling immediately disappeared somewhere once we started walking.

Inside, amongst the hustle and bustle, the many people we passed by looked at us and I could hear topics about Yurie.

["Hey, isn’t that girl really beautiful?"] ["A celebrity?"] ["I’ll take a photo and upload it"] ["Oh, she has a guy…….."] ["The Blondie just now was good too but, this is good in its own way………."]

There were a lot of reactions but, most of it regarding Yurie.

But, while I meant most of it, it means all of it wasn’t that.

["They are wearing school uniforms though; I wonder which school they are from?"] ["Don’t know? I never seen that before…………."]

It’s only normal they don’t know.

Unless there is a good reason, Kouryou students are not allowed to go out other than weekends.

And even if they were to go out on a weekend, there probably isn’t any commendable students that would go out wearing a school uniform.

Only the school name could be heard at best.

Even for myself, if I hadn’t heard about the existence of the school beforehand then, not only would I have no idea about the internal conditions of the school, I wouldn't even know the school’s name in the first place.

(That’s because it’s a school with that kind of enrollment ceremony.)

Although it is a school lacking common sense when half of the number of students dropped out from the enrollment ceremony, it’s also weird that this school is not known to the public.

Mikuni-sensei said that information regulations were imposed, but it would probably be just a rumor at most.

And when I was thinking things like that, my sleeves was *gui**gui* being pulled.

“Tooru, how about that shop?”

“Ah……. You’re right, that’s a cute shirt………..I guess?”

I was often brought by my sister------Otoha to buy things but, I have absolutely no idea about girl's clothing.

But, judging from the shop display, it’s true that I feel it would suit Yurie.

Like that, we tried entering this shop for now but-------

“I think this suits her. How about it, boyfriend-san?”

“Eh!? Ah………. No, no, no. I am not her boyfriend…………!”

When we were looking around for clothes, a female shop attendant came over and said those lines; even though I hurried and denied it, she just giggled.

I probably made her think I was trying to trick her due to embarrassment.

A male and a female together, what’s more even though we entered the shop and started looking at clothes, Yurie was still grabbing my sleeves and it’s true that it isn’t strange for her to misunderstand.

Rather, even if I am a 3rd person here, we definitely would be thought of as a couple.

“I will go try on the clothes now.”

Yurie left with those words taking several summer clothes, recommended by the shop attendant, before entering the changing room.

“Fufu, she’s a very cute girlfriend!”

“Y-yeah………”

I gave up denying since anything I do will be useless and made a nod mixed with a wry smile.

Checking on her status, I made a small sigh while making a side glance at the shop attendant who came over to see us with the purpose of sticking her nose into our business, and began regretting coming here with the two of us only.

(It would have been better if everyone was together…………)

Miyabi is probably out playing with Tachibana somewhere.

Tora headed out somewhere so I couldn’t find him.

Tatsu is working hard in his muscle training.

…………and while I was recalling that back, the curtain slightly opened and Yurie suddenly brought her face out.

“Tooru. I have finished changing……..can you see it?”

“I’ll say this just in case; don’t expect a good sense from me.”

“Ya---. It is okay.”

I don’t know what she meant by "it's okay" but Yurie nodded and opened the curtain wider.

[Uoo……….][Oh my………..]

The shop attendant and I let out a shocked voice at the same time and Yurie silently showed herself.

The clothe Yurie tried on was a cooling, basic, white, one piece.

The sleeves were opened wide and the arranged white lace has emphasized the girlishness.

“What’s wrong, Tooru?”

“A-aah……………errr, I think it suits you very well…………..”

“Thank you very much. I will buy this then.”

“You decide too fast!!..............wait, isn’t it at least better to try some of the others first before deciding?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Un**un*The shop attendant beside me nodded.

Rather than doing it for her job, her expression is saying to try more clothes on.

“I understand………….but I decided to buy this one.”

After saying that, she closed the curtain once more and we waited a few more minutes.

“Tooru. What do you think about this?”

It's black this time, opposite to the one piece from just now. Looking at that figure, the attendant and I made an sound of admiration again.

The skirt was short and it has a lot of frills as its characteristic, thanks to it being black, it made Yurie’s silver hair attractive and it suited her very much.

“Err………I think it’s nice. Extremely.”

“Ya---. I think I will buy this too then.”

Maybe she liked my response, Yurie slightly narrowed her eyes and confined herself within the changing room a third time.

She then showed herself not long later, and the clothes this time again suited her.

“How about this?”

“It looks refreshing so why not?”

“Ya---, it is very soothing. Well, this too……………”

She bought all 3 clothes she tried in the end.

“E-erm. If it’s okay with you, will you try other clothes? For my eyes recuperation………..not that, I think it will suit miss customer and we have a lot of cute clothes too”

“Errr………..what will you do, Yurie? Will you try it on?”

“Ya--. If Tooru says so.”

…………it was a mistake to go with this flow.

“…………….Yurie. Don’t you think you are buying too much?”

While staring at the 12 clothing items, stacked up like a mountain on the counter, I made a comeback just in case.

Looking at the pile of clothes she tried on, as they started entering the list of purchase, I thought she bought too many as expected and if I did not tell her it’s about time we should head to other shops then I would have no idea what would have happened.

“Nai. I am only buying the clothes Tooru said is nice.”

“N-no, it’s true I said them but, I think all of it is just a little…………..”

“But, this one looks very matching and this one is very nice, this one is cooling and-------“

Yurie lined up my comments one by one without making any mistakes.

After saying everything until the last 12th clothes-----

“As expected, I will buy all.”

In the end, Yurie announced herself as a very good miss customer.

Although the shop attendant opened her eyes wide when we said to buy 12 clothes (+3 pair of shoes), she made an even more shocked expression when we told her we would pay with a credit card.

She probably would have never thought students like us would pay with a card.

But the instant we handed the student card which also has the function of a credit card in it, ["Aah, it’s that school………….."] the attendant muttered.

I became curious on how she knew about it and asked her. It seems several people like us come over here to buy stuff every year.

However, we were the first ones to purchase this large of an amount.

Incidentally, the moment I heard the total amount of money, my eyes were almost going to pop out but this is a secret.

Luckily it was within allowance range so there wasn’t any problem.

“Alright then, now that we finished buying clothes, what should we do now?”

“--------? Weren’t we going to other shops to see the clothes?”

“………………..no, I’ll give up on that for today.”

It was not hard to imagine the same result if we go to another shop.

It would be faster if I say it doesn’t suit her but, the foundation material is good---------rather that, Yurie was so good looking, to the point that, any clothes she wears suits her naturally.

More importantly, it is impossible for me to twist my thoughts and tell Yurie.

In front of the small happy expression she shows when I say it suits her, there is no way I can lie.

“So, should we head back?”

“U-nn………well since we are outside, let’s wander around for a bit then.”

“Ya--. That’s true.”

Nonetheless, as expected there was a lot of baggage so we decided to head to the delivery counter first.

“Well, where should we go, Tooru?”

Right after we finished our delivery and lightened the load, we then decided to look around the north hall from one corner to the other.

As if it was natural for her, Yurie grabbed my sleeves and walked beside me.

Although it was more or less embarrassing for me at the beginning, we talked with each other while looking at the shops until I naturally forgot about it.

After that, Yurie looked at the ferret in the pet shop nearby with her eyes glittering, and played a free to play virtual game in one corner of the game shop; we were passing a fun and peaceful time enough for us to forget the tough training we go through regularly.

“Now that I think back, Miyabi told me the gelato on the first floor is recommended.”

“……………gelato huh. If Miyabi recommended it then, I want to try heading there but…………..”

As a late lunch, when Yurie was about to start her pumpkin cream pasta and fondant chocolate as dessert, I recalled the talk Miyabi told me.

Even Yurie isn't an exception to girlishness. It seems Yurie also loves sweets and she often changes expressions with the desserts that come out from the cafeteria.

That is why it is only normal for her to think she want to try it after hearing it is a recommendation but------

Since Yurie eats little in the first place, it is clear that she will lose the space for the gelato once she eats the chocolate; she knows that herself and dropped her shoulders from what I can see.

It will probably be alright after some time, but the influence would probably come back during dinner time this time if we were to do that.

“……………why don’t we try buying as much gelato as you can eat for now? If you cannot finish then I will eat the leftovers.”

Because of me forgetting, her disappointed figure was really pitiful and after I brought up an idea-------

“That is a good idea.”

Yurie brought out a happy atmosphere.

I unintentionally leaked a smile from that expression.

(This is good, this is good……….)

And like that, my thoughts were hastily over.

“Tooru. Just in case, can you eat this chocolate?”

“Aah, I don’t mind.”

Yurie proposed this when it was half eaten.

Of course, since there is no reason to refuse, it was alright until I nodded but-------

“Please open your mouth.”

“Huh?”

“Like I said, please open your mouth.”

She lifted one mouth full size of fondant chocolate wrapped in cold ice with a fork and brought it in front of me.

“…………….Are you perhaps going to feed me?”

“Ya—♪Ahnn”

“N-no, doing that in front of people is a little……….”

“----? Miyabi often does this to me?”

That is between girls.

And we are of the opposite sex.

I know Yurie has no other intentions, but it can’t be help for me to feel resistant to her actions, rather I think it was only normal to do so.

“Errrr…………”

Luckily, there were little people in the shop since we were off from lunch time, and thanks to there being many blocks, it's not like people can see us. it is unacceptable as there was window but, since there is an atrium from the first floor in front of this 3 floored building instead of a road, we aren't likely to be noticed from outside.

(Well, I guess this situation is alright…………?)

“------?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Chirin* the bell rang as if to urge me. And of course, Yurie doesn’t have the intentions to make me hurry.

“I-I get it. Then…………..”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Ahhn* I opened my mouth wide as I was told and ate the chocolate.

(I’m glad everyone didn’t come………….)

I was thinking a completely different thing from the tailor shop from just now.

“Tooru, here you go.”

“Eh? Again?”

“Ya---. There is still this much left. So, Ahhnn”

“Hahaha……okay.”

In the end, I was fed around 8 times and there was one time when the shop attendant there saw us and giggled making it an awkward situation.

But------

I then found out the really problematic situation happened right after that.

“Tooru, Ahhn”

Between the south and north hall-------in a place called Harbor Street where many people pasts by, Yurie brought the gelato to my mouth.

“………eh?”

“It's very delicious so I am sharing with you. That’s why Tooru, please Ahnnn”

Inside the presence of a crowd of people, Yurie smiled as if she was not bothered about them.

Of course, it was only natural for me to be bothered about the sights from our surroundings.

“----Tooru?”

She tilted her small head-----

“Ya-yaa-----………”

I answered powerlessly and let her fed me the gelato……….

===Part 2===

Tooru and Yurie. Unless one knows about their situation they could only be seen as an intimate couple, and there were shadows watching those 2 from afar.

It was Tomoe and Miyabi.

Having asked Tooru and Yurie’s departure time indirectly during breakfast, Miyabi and Tomoe reached the closest station near the A La Mode one hour before those 2.

From that point on, both of them were sneakily following behind them; they acted as if they were buying things at a nearby shop from the shop Yurie tried her clothes on---------(Miyabi actually bought something)------, this time they were hiding and peeping at the atrium where Yurie and Tooru were eating at from afar in a sports shop located across the atrium.

“Mi-Miyabi. Are those 2 really not going out with each other……….?”

“U-un…………..Tooru-kun said that………..”

“I see……….no, but……………”

During eating and this time in a manner of not bothering the public eye----------(Miyabi and Tomoe saw it like this)-------Tooru was being fed gelato by Yurie.

Looking at those two, Miyabi and Tomoe panicked together.

“To-To-To-Tomoe-chan. That’s errrr…………..not an illicit relationship right………..?”

“N-no, i-it isn’t a sexual conduct so……………..”

There are probably in this society which calls those actions of a stupid couple but, at the very least it isn’t any illicit relationship.

Thanks to that, they could not cut in and intrude them making both of them getting agitated only and could not make any other actions other than watching over them.

However, both of them were suddenly called out by a voice.

“Both of you are alone?”

“Eh………..?”

When they looked over, there were 4 guys standing there.

They were obviously picking up girls.

[If it is okay you two, want to play with us?][Both of you are cute. High school student? From what school?] [Kouryouu?][I know where. It’s the place nearby popular with martial arts.]

The confirmation this guy made towards Kouryou academy was not wrong.

A private school with a dormitory system, and power placed inside martial arts, graduation would link to an employment from the secret service.

Not leaving any achievements to the public and because of the secret regulations from the Dawn organization, it is impossible for there to be any eye catching general information left inside the people’s memories.

Even if the <<Luciful>> or <<Blaze>> has been turned into a rumor, it would probably be an absurd nonsense at most.

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 2 Non-Colour 3.jpg|thumb]]

Unless they have definite proof then, it would not leave the realm of rumor even if it is real.

Naturally, since that was also made to be fully aware by the students that goes out, during the filling of the form for going out, they are not to cause any trouble outside, they are not to manifest their <<Blaze>> and etc; it was an outing with many attentions.

By any chance any of those rules were broken; a strict punishment will be given but------

“Heeh, by martial arts is it judo or karate? So you all are doing that too?”

“Ye-yeah…….”

Miyabi and Tomoe were agitated by the sudden pick up and answered the persons question honestly.

“That’s nice. Then, teach us some pinning skills too.”

“……………..no thanks. Let’s go, Miyabi.”

Finally at this moment, Tomoe noticed the guys’ intentions and even though she took Miyabi and left the spot-----

“That’s so cold. A little is fine. We won’t do anything strange.”

A guy then grabbed Miyabi’s arm and pulled hard.

“Ah…………..”

Scared--------the moment she felt that, her body moved by reflex.

“Le-let go……….!”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Don* Miyabi thrust the guy away.

Normally, he would stagger a bit but-------

Since her arm strength is exceedingly stronger than a normal person because of the <<Luciful>>, the guy fell over pathetically.

[Haha, lame!][Shut up! My balance just collapsed!!]

The fallen over guy shouted at his comrades who were laughing loudly.

Luckily, he was just grazed.

“Oi oi, give me a break from violence.”

“Your side was the ones getting violent first. It’s true that, thrusting him away was too much though………………”

Although Tomoe entered between Miyabi and the leader, her voice tone was weak as expected.

Naturally, the person did not let that slip by.

“If you think it was too much then, isn’t it okay for you two to go out with us to reconcile?”

“I-I refuse! I will apologize but, this and that is different!!”

“To-Tomoe-chan……………”

Tomoe whispered ''It’s alright'', to Miyabi who was turning smaller behind Tomoe.

(I have no problems with this number of people alone……….!)

That awareness, made Tomoe’s feelings stronger even if it turns into a fight.

However, Tomoe’s response does not feel nice to the guys and after the guy Miyabi thrust away joined back, the guys stand and surrounded both of them like a wall.

At that moment, someone Miyabi and Tomoe was familiar with, pushed through the crowd of people and appeared.

“Stop it you bastards!!”

[What is it!?][Who the hell are you!!]

Tooru was the one who stood in front of the guys.

Luckily, since they were nearby, he heard Miyabi and Tomoe’s voice and ran over here.

“These two are with me. I’ll listen if you have any problems.”

[To-Tooru-kun……….][Kokonoe………..!]

Both of them called Tooru’s name and was a little relieved.

[He says they are with him.][Looks real.][What should we do?]

On the other hand, the guys were looking at each other on what to do next from the appearance of the person who named himself as one of them-------

“Miyabi, Tomoe, are you two okay?”

At that moment, they made their decision when Yurie joined.

[Wow. She’s super cute……….][This girl is also with him?][The so called Harem?][I feel a little pissed][What should we do?][Obviously---]

At the same time with the leader saying that, the guys slightly lowered their hips.

“Let’s give him a light one!”

“-----!!”

The guys move at the same time.

It was somewhat surprising-------but nonetheless, it looks like it was in slow motion to Tooru who has sublimated to <<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>>.

(I have no choice then; I’ll give them a light one then run away.)

''I’ll push them down so they won’t get hurt I guess'', it was that moment Tooru decided that.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Taan*…………!! A dry sound from far away-----a ''gunshot'' echoed in the harbor street.

Almost at the same time, one guy that was going to punch Tooru, fell down as if he was flicked away.

“Eh…………?”

In astonishment, the voice of the person who muttered that was unknown.

However, faster than everyone in the spot-------including Tooru and the group------faster than them understanding what happened, another gunshot echoed and another guy collapsed.

“Wha…….!?”

“Tooru, That’s…………!!”

Further ahead of Yurie’s sights-----around 100 meters away standing on top of the 3rd floors balcony, Tooru saw the owner who made the gunshot.

A girl with long gorgeous shining {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}}.

Her hand was holding a-------black long barrel <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

(Lealith!? And that’s-------------<<Blaze>>!?)

During the time Tooru was opening his eyes in shock, Lealith then pulled the trigger making the 3rd shot then 4th shot in an instant and all of the guys collapsed.

In the middle of the sights looking at the guys suddenly collapsing at their surroundings, Tooru and Yurie was looking at the gold girl-------and was unable to take their eyes away from the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> she was holding.

The thought that revived in his mind, was the talk that was taught in class last time.

'''“The <<Blaze>> cannot be manifested as a weapon with complex structure”'''

That talk wasn’t a lie and, '''a <<Gun>> type <<Blaze>> is impossible originally'''.

But the <<Blaze>> being shown in Tooru and the group’s sights was unmistakably a <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

Lealith made her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> disappear and turned her heels around.

While looking at the {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} walking into the balcony, Tooru muttered.

“<<Exception>>………..”

<noinclude>

==Translation Notes and References==
<references group="2c" />

{{SimpleNav}}
</noinclude>

Absolute Duo:Volume 2 Chapter 3

2014-01-09T06:33:25Z

Aoi uchuu: Grammar, words and phrases.

==Chapter 3 『That Is a Good Idea』==

===Part 1===

After exiting the school gate and crossing the small bridge, the only connection to the outer world to the students attending Kouryou academy ---------is a monorail for authorized personal only.

In a distance that doesn’t even take 5 minutes; the suspended type monorail is connected to a nearby JR station<ref group ="2c">Japan Railway station</ref> of Tokyo and Chiba from the front of the school.

When we boarded the railway car, there were only a small number of people riding inside.

Since school academy personnel were the only ones able to use it in the first place, it's only natural to say the number of users are few.

Thanks to that, we're grateful to find empty seats without fighting over them.

“This is somehow heart throbbing isn’t it?”

Sitting in the opposite side of the box seat, Yurie said while looking outside the window.

“I see. It’s the first time you visited a Japanese city.”

“Ya---. That is why I am looking forward to it.”

Yurie moved her viewpoint, from the sea outside the window--------, to me and nodded.

(It might be good to take a breather like this once in a while……….)

I took a side look at Yurie, who returned to her sightseeing at the sea again, and *Fuu* leaked a smile.

Incidentally, Yurie and I were in uniform even though it was Sunday.

It’s not like there is a school rule saying we have to wear the school uniform when going out of the school.

It’s simply just because Yurie doesn't have any clothes to match the May weather, and I followed her.

(However, this placement relation sure feels nostalgic. Well, it’s probably because I've gotten too used to it.)

Normally, I would be with Yurie side by side with our shoulders close to each other when we usually watch television--------and depending on the situation, we would be sitting side by side within a certain distance, I could feel the warmth from us almost touching each other.

It's also the same case when we attend classes and at the cafeteria.

That is why I feel strange sitting in front of her and would accidentally fix my stare at her.

This foreign beauty directing her {{Furigana|red eyes|Ruby eyes}} outside the window.

Her {{Furigana|silver hair|Silver blonde}}, which no one would turn away from and would stare amazed, was beautifully swaying.

Because there's a lack of expression shown on her well-featured face, it makes one think of her as a delicate bisque doll.

But I know this normal girl has something aside from those truths.

---Inside that heart holds a dark emotion known as revenge.

The same darkness as me.

Maybe------That night was just a dream, I would think something like that.

However, I felt hesitant to put that matter in my mouth again.

That’s because I didn’t want to admit Yurie holds the same hatred as me and is someone that wishes for revenge.

“-----Tooru?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Chirin* the echoing bell brought me back.

She has probably called out to me many times already. Yurie was looking at me while tilting her head.

“We're going to arrive soon."

“Ah…………I-I see.”

Before I knew it, almost as soon as we departed, the monorail was close to reaching its destination.

In the middle of slowly entering the platform, Yurie got up from her seat.

“Yurie, it’s better to stand up once we arrive.”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Gakon*.

Almost at the same time of my warning, the monorail was close to stopping and was swaying.

“Ah……..”

My warning was useless and Yurie’s balance collapsed, making her fall on her butt.

…………on top of my lap.

Her hair swayed and a nice smell tickled my nasal cavity.

“Th-that’s why I told you.”

“Ya-Ya-----……..”

After I said that while feeling a little embarrassed, Yurie also hanged her head downwards in embarrassment.

“I will be careful from now on. Alright then, let’s get off.”

After I stood up, I extended my hand to Yurie.

Although I once extended out my hands to her in the clock tower last time, including this time, having her hands weighted on mine felt very embarrassing.

After getting out the station we transferred to the JR route, following what Miyabi taught me, and got off after one station.

From there, after walking for around 5 minutes, we reached our destination the A La Mode but------

Once, the A La Mode was the biggest shopping mall in Japan (According to Miyabi’s information), although that status has been taken by another place, the number of customers didn't decrease and is filled with many people during holidays.

“…………….It’s like a festival.”

Although it can’t be said to be wide, Yurie opened her mouth in amazement and looked around.

“Tooru isn’t really that shocked.”

“That’s because there was a big mall in my hometown. Well, let’s see the floor guide and confirm the location of the shop for now.”

“Ya---…………..”

I urged Yurie, who was still a little blank and the moment, as I opened the guide map I took from a nearby help kiosk, I furrowed my eyebrows in bewilderment.

“What is this…………..”

The guide map is oddly thick, as it spans 8 pages even though it is just introducing the floors; with a total of more than 500 plus shop names was written in it.

(I heard there are a lot of shops but, I didn’t think it would be this many……………)

“Tooru, Is something wrong?”

While I was dumbfounded, Yurie tip-toed while peeking into the guide map.

She then grabbed my sleeves to take balance and her peeking form makes me think of her as a small animal.

“Ah, sorry. Let’s look at this while sitting nearby.”

After saying that, I sat on a nearby stool with Yurie.

“This is…………….I have no idea what's going on in this at all.”

“A-aah…………As expected, it’s normal to think that.”

She brought her body closer, defenselessly as usual, and stuck on my lap making me feel, in my mind, slightly excited .

However, Yurie does not seem bothered by this at all and flipped the page but------

“It’s too many, so I don’t know where we should go…………….”

And like that, she made a troubled face.

The only information in the index are the shops name and position code. What’s more, it’s not like the places are positioned in the west, south, north hall respectively since it also expands to the first and second floor; thanks to that, just like what Yurie said, we have no idea where we should go.

“U---n…………. Let’s walk around randomly for now. Since there are this many shops, I think we would find something of interest sooner or later.”

I stood up and the moment I was about to start walking, I recalled something and turned back.

“Yurie, please be careful not to get separated because of the crowd.”

“Ya---“

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Koku**koku* Yurie nodded and grabbed my sleeves tightly.

“I won’t get separated like this.”

Yurie said that with satisfaction while making a small smile.

“Th-that’s true………”

It’s not like the level of holding hands, but this is embarrassing in its own way.

However, that feeling immediately disappeared somewhere once we started walking.

Inside the hustle and bustle, many people we passed by looked at us and I could hear topics about Yurie.

[Hey, isn’t that girl really beautiful?] [A celebrity?] [I’ll take a photo and upload it] [Oh, she has a guy……..] [The Blondie just now was good too but, this is good in its own way……….]

There were a lot of reactions but, most of it is regarding Yurie.

But, when I meant most of it, it means all of it wasn’t that.

[They are wearing school uniforms though; I wonder which school they are from?] [Don’t know? I never seen that before………….]

It’s only normal they don’t know.

Unless there is a good reason, Kouryou students are not allowed to go out other than weekends.

And even if they were to go out on a weekend, there probably isn’t any commendable students that would go out wearing a school uniform.

Only the school name could be heard at best.

Even for myself, if I hadn’t heard about the existence of the school beforehand then, not only will I have no idea about the internal conditions of the school, I won’t even know about the school’s name in the first place.

(That’s because it’s a school with that kind of enrollment ceremony.)

Although it is a school lacking common sense when half of the number of students dropped out from the enrollment ceremony, it’s also weird that this school is not known to the public.

Mikuni-sensei said that information regulations were imposed, but it would probably be just a rumor at most.

And when I was thinking things like that, my sleeves was *gui**gui* being pulled.

“Tooru, how about that shop?”

“Ah……. You’re right, that’s a cute shirt………..I guess?”

I was often brought by my sister------Otoha to buy things but, I have absolutely no idea in girl clothing.

But, judging from the shop display, it’s true that I feel it would suit Yurie.

Like that, we tried entering this shop for now but-------

“I think this suits her. How about it, boyfriend-san?”

“Eh!? Ah………. Nonono I am not her boyfriend…………!”

When we were looking around for clothes, a female shop attendant came over and said those lines; even though I hurried and denied it, she just giggled.

I probably made her think I was trying to trick her due to embarrassment.

A male and a female together, what’s more even though we entered the shop and started looking at clothes, Yurie was still grabbing my sleeves and it’s true that it isn’t strange for her to misunderstand.

Rather, even if I am a 3rd person here, we definitely would be thought of as a couple.

“I will go try the clothes now.”

Yurie left those words and took several summer clothes recommended by the shop attendant before entering the changing room.

“Fufu, she’s a very cute girlfriend!”

“Y-yeah………”

I gave up denying since anything I do will be useless and made a nod mixed with a wry smile.

Checking her status, I made a small sigh while making a side glance at the shop attendant who came over to see us with the purpose of prying her noses into our matter, and started regretting coming out with the two of us only.

(It would have been better if everyone was together…………)

Miyabi is probably out playing with Tachibana somewhere.

Tora headed out somewhere so I couldn’t find him.

Tatsu is working hard in his muscle training.

…………and while I was recalling that back, the curtain slightly opened and Yurie suddenly brought her face out.

“Tooru. I have finished changing……..can you see it?”

“I’ll say this just in case; don’t expect a good sense from me.”

“Ya---. It is okay.”

I don’t know what she meant by its okay but Yurie nodded and opened the curtain wider.

[Uoo……….][Oh my………..]

The shop attendant and I let out a shocked voice at the same time and Yurie silently showed herself.

The clothe Yurie tried on was a cooling, basic, white, one piece.

The sleeves were opened wide and the arranged white lace has emphasized the girlishness.

“What’s wrong, Tooru?”

“A-aah……………errr, I think it suits you very well…………..”

“Thank you very much. I will buy this then.”

“You decide too fast!!..............wait, at least isn’t it better to try some others first before deciding?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Un**un*The shop attendant beside me nodded.

Rather than doing it for her job, her expression is saying to try more clothes on.

“I understand………….but I decide to buy this one.”

After saying that, she closed the curtain once more and we waited for a few minutes more.

“Tooru. What do you think about this?”

It's black this time, opposite to the one piece from just now. Looking at that figure, the attendant and I made an sound of admiration again.

The skirt was short and it has a lot of frills as its characteristic, thanks to it being black, it made Yurie’s silver hair attractive and it suited her very much.

“Err………I think it’s nice. Extremely.”

“Ya---. I think I will buy this too then.”

Maybe she liked my response, Yurie slightly narrowed her eyes and confined herself in the changing room the third time.

She then showed herself not long later, and the clothes this time again suited her.

“How about this?”

“It looks refreshing so why not?”

“Ya---, it is very soothing. Well, this too……………”

She bought all 3 clothes she tried in the end.

“E-erm. If it’s okay with you, will you try other clothes? For my eyes recuperation………..not that, I think it will suit miss customer and we have a lot of cute clothes too”

“Errr………..what will you do, Yurie? Will you try it on?”

“Ya--. If Tooru says so.”

…………it was a mistake to go with this flow.

“…………….Yurie. Don’t you think you are buying too much?”

While staring at the 12 clothes stacked up like a mountain on the counter, I made a comeback just in case.

Looking at the state of clothes she tried from the beginning entering the list of purchase, I thought she bought too many as expected and if I did not tell her it’s about time we should head to other shops then I would have no idea what would have happened.

“Nai. I am only buying the clothes Tooru said is nice.”

“N-no, it’s true I said them but, I think all of it is just a little…………..”

“But, this one looks very matching and this one is very nice, this one is cooling and-------“

Yurie lined up my comments one by one without making any mistakes.

After saying everything until the last 12th clothes-----

“As expected, I will buy all.”

In the end, Yurie announced herself as a very good miss customer.

Although the shop attendant opened her eyes wide when we said to buy 12 clothes (+3 pair of shoes), she made an even more shocked expression when we told her we would pay with a credit card.

She probably would have never thought students like us would pay with a card.

But the instant we handed the student card which also has the function of a credit card in it, [Aah, it’s that school…………..] the attendant muttered that.

I became curious on how she knew about it and asked her. It seems several people like us come over here to buy stuff every year.

However, we were the first ones to purchase this large amount.

Incidentally, the moment I heard the total amount of money, my eyes were almost going to pop out but this is a secret.

Luckily it was within allowance range so there wasn’t any problem.

“Alright then, now that we finished buying clothes, what should we do now?”

“--------? Weren’t we going to other shops to see the clothes?”

“………………..no, I’ll give up on that for today.”

It was not hard to imagine the same result if we go to another shop.

It would be faster if I say it doesn’t suit her but, the foundation material is good---------rather than that, Yurie was too good until any clothes she wear suits her naturally.

More importantly, it is impossible for me to twist my thoughts and tell Yurie.

In front of the small happy expression she shows when I say it suits her, there is no way I can lie.

“So, should we head back?”

“U-nn………well since we are outside, let’s wander around for a bit then.”

“Ya--. That’s true.”

Nonetheless, as expected there was a lot of baggage so we decided to head to the delivery counter first.

“Well, where should we go, Tooru?”

Right after we finished our delivery and lighten the load, we then decided to look around the north hall from one corner to the other.

As if it was natural for her, Yurie grabbed my sleeves and walked beside me.

Although it was more or less embarrassing for me at the beginning, we talked with each other while looking at the shops until I naturally forgot about it.

After that, Yurie looked at the ferret in the pet shop nearby with her eyes glittering, and played a free to play virtual game in one corner of the game shop; we were passing a fun and peaceful time enough for us to forget the tough training we go through regularly.

“Now that I think back, Miyabi told me the gelato on the first floor is recommended.”

“……………gelato huh. If Miyabi recommended it then, I want to try heading there but…………..”

As a late lunch, when Yurie was about to start her pumpkin cream pasta and fondant chocolate as dessert, I recalled the talk Miyabi told me.

Even Yurie is not an exception to girlishness. It seems Yurie also loves sweets and she often exchanges impression in the desserts that comes out in the cafeteria.

That is why it is only normal for her to think she want to try it after hearing it is a recommendation but------

Since Yurie eats little in the first place, it is clear that she will lose the space for the gelato once she eats the chocolate; she knows that herself and dropped her shoulders from what I can see.

It will probably be alright after some time, but the influence would probably come back during dinner time this time if we were to do that.

“……………why don’t we try buying as much gelato as you can eat for now? If you cannot finish then I will eat the leftovers.”

Because of me forgetting, her disappointed figure was really pitiful and after I brought up an idea-------

“That is a good idea.”

Yurie brought out a happy atmosphere.

I unintentionally leaked a smile from that expression.

(This is good, this is good……….)

And like that, my thoughts were hastily over.

“Tooru. Just in case, can you eat this chocolate?”

“Aah, I don’t mind.”

Yurie proposed this when it was half eaten.

Of course, since there is no reason to refuse, it was alright until I nodded but-------

“Please open your mouth.”

“Huh?”

“Like I said, please open your mouth.”

She lifted one mouth full size of fondant chocolate wrapped in cold ice with a fork and brought it in front of me.

“…………….Are you perhaps going to feed me?”

“Ya—♪Ahnn”

“N-no, doing that in front of people is a little……….”

“----? Miyabi often does this to me?”

That is between girls.

And we are of the opposite sex.

I know Yurie has no other intentions, but it can’t be help for me to feel resistant to her actions, rather I think it was only normal to do so.

“Errrr…………”

Luckily, there were little people in the shop since we were off from lunch time, and thanks to there being many blocks, it's not like people can see us. it is unacceptable as there was window but, since there is an atrium from the first floor in front of this 3 floored building instead of a road, we aren't likely to be noticed from outside.

(Well, I guess this situation is alright…………?)

“------?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Chirin* the bell rang as if to urge me. And of course, Yurie doesn’t have the intentions to make me hurry.

“I-I get it. Then…………..”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Ahhn* I opened my mouth wide as I was told and ate the chocolate.

(I’m glad everyone didn’t come………….)

I was thinking a completely different thing from the tailor shop from just now.

“Tooru, here you go.”

“Eh? Again?”

“Ya---. There is still this much left. So, Ahhnn”

“Hahaha……okay.”

In the end, I was fed around 8 times and there was one time when the shop attendant there saw us and giggled making it an awkward situation.

But------

I then found out the really problematic situation happened right after that.

“Tooru, Ahhn”

Between the south and north hall-------in a place called Harbor Street where many people pasts by, Yurie brought the gelato to my mouth.

“………eh?”

“It's very delicious so I am sharing with you. That’s why Tooru, please Ahnnn”

Inside the presence of a crowd of people, Yurie smiled as if she was not bothered about them.

Of course, it was only natural for me to be bothered about the sights from our surroundings.

“----Tooru?”

She tilted her small head-----

“Ya-yaa-----………”

I answered powerlessly and let her fed me the gelato……….

===Part 2===

Tooru and Yurie. Unless one knows about their situation they could only be seen as an intimate couple, and there were shadows watching those 2 from afar.

It was Tomoe and Miyabi.

Having asked Tooru and Yurie’s departure time indirectly during breakfast, Miyabi and Tomoe reached the closest station near the A La Mode one hour before those 2.

From that point on, both of them were sneakily following behind them; they acted as if they were buying things at a nearby shop from the shop Yurie tried her clothes on---------(Miyabi actually bought something)------, this time they were hiding and peeping at the atrium where Yurie and Tooru were eating at from afar in a sports shop located across the atrium.

“Mi-Miyabi. Are those 2 really not going out with each other……….?”

“U-un…………..Tooru-kun said that………..”

“I see……….no, but……………”

During eating and this time in a manner of not bothering the public eye----------(Miyabi and Tomoe saw it like this)-------Tooru was being fed gelato by Yurie.

Looking at those two, Miyabi and Tomoe panicked together.

“To-To-To-Tomoe-chan. That’s errrr…………..not an illicit relationship right………..?”

“N-no, i-it isn’t a sexual conduct so……………..”

There are probably in this society which calls those actions of a stupid couple but, at the very least it isn’t any illicit relationship.

Thanks to that, they could not cut in and intrude them making both of them getting agitated only and could not make any other actions other than watching over them.

However, both of them were suddenly called out by a voice.

“Both of you are alone?”

“Eh………..?”

When they looked over, there were 4 guys standing there.

They were obviously picking up girls.

[If it is okay you two, want to play with us?][Both of you are cute. High school student? From what school?] [Kouryouu?][I know where. It’s the place nearby popular with martial arts.]

The confirmation this guy made towards Kouryou academy was not wrong.

A private school with a dormitory system, and power placed inside martial arts, graduation would link to an employment from the secret service.

Not leaving any achievements to the public and because of the secret regulations from the Dawn organization, it is impossible for there to be any eye catching general information left inside the people’s memories.

Even if the <<Luciful>> or <<Blaze>> has been turned into a rumor, it would probably be an absurd nonsense at most.

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 2 Non-Colour 3.jpg|thumb]]

Unless they have definite proof then, it would not leave the realm of rumor even if it is real.

Naturally, since that was also made to be fully aware by the students that goes out, during the filling of the form for going out, they are not to cause any trouble outside, they are not to manifest their <<Blaze>> and etc; it was an outing with many attentions.

By any chance any of those rules were broken; a strict punishment will be given but------

“Heeh, by martial arts is it judo or karate? So you all are doing that too?”

“Ye-yeah…….”

Miyabi and Tomoe were agitated by the sudden pick up and answered the persons question honestly.

“That’s nice. Then, teach us some pinning skills too.”

“……………..no thanks. Let’s go, Miyabi.”

Finally at this moment, Tomoe noticed the guys’ intentions and even though she took Miyabi and left the spot-----

“That’s so cold. A little is fine. We won’t do anything strange.”

A guy then grabbed Miyabi’s arm and pulled hard.

“Ah…………..”

Scared--------the moment she felt that, her body moved by reflex.

“Le-let go……….!”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Don* Miyabi thrust the guy away.

Normally, he would stagger a bit but-------

Since her arm strength is exceedingly stronger than a normal person because of the <<Luciful>>, the guy fell over pathetically.

[Haha, lame!][Shut up! My balance just collapsed!!]

The fallen over guy shouted at his comrades who were laughing loudly.

Luckily, he was just grazed.

“Oi oi, give me a break from violence.”

“Your side was the ones getting violent first. It’s true that, thrusting him away was too much though………………”

Although Tomoe entered between Miyabi and the leader, her voice tone was weak as expected.

Naturally, the person did not let that slip by.

“If you think it was too much then, isn’t it okay for you two to go out with us to reconcile?”

“I-I refuse! I will apologize but, this and that is different!!”

“To-Tomoe-chan……………”

Tomoe whispered ''It’s alright'', to Miyabi who was turning smaller behind Tomoe.

(I have no problems with this number of people alone……….!)

That awareness, made Tomoe’s feelings stronger even if it turns into a fight.

However, Tomoe’s response does not feel nice to the guys and after the guy Miyabi thrust away joined back, the guys stand and surrounded both of them like a wall.

At that moment, someone Miyabi and Tomoe was familiar with, pushed through the crowd of people and appeared.

“Stop it you bastards!!”

[What is it!?][Who the hell are you!!]

Tooru was the one who stood in front of the guys.

Luckily, since they were nearby, he heard Miyabi and Tomoe’s voice and ran over here.

“These two are with me. I’ll listen if you have any problems.”

[To-Tooru-kun……….][Kokonoe………..!]

Both of them called Tooru’s name and was a little relieved.

[He says they are with him.][Looks real.][What should we do?]

On the other hand, the guys were looking at each other on what to do next from the appearance of the person who named himself as one of them-------

“Miyabi, Tomoe, are you two okay?”

At that moment, they made their decision when Yurie joined.

[Wow. She’s super cute……….][This girl is also with him?][The so called Harem?][I feel a little pissed][What should we do?][Obviously---]

At the same time with the leader saying that, the guys slightly lowered their hips.

“Let’s give him a light one!”

“-----!!”

The guys move at the same time.

It was somewhat surprising-------but nonetheless, it looks like it was in slow motion to Tooru who has sublimated to <<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>>.

(I have no choice then; I’ll give them a light one then run away.)

''I’ll push them down so they won’t get hurt I guess'', it was that moment Tooru decided that.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Taan*…………!! A dry sound from far away-----a ''gunshot'' echoed in the harbor street.

Almost at the same time, one guy that was going to punch Tooru, fell down as if he was flicked away.

“Eh…………?”

In astonishment, the voice of the person who muttered that was unknown.

However, faster than everyone in the spot-------including Tooru and the group------faster than them understanding what happened, another gunshot echoed and another guy collapsed.

“Wha…….!?”

“Tooru, That’s…………!!”

Further ahead of Yurie’s sights-----around 100 meters away standing on top of the 3rd floors balcony, Tooru saw the owner who made the gunshot.

A girl with long gorgeous shining {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}}.

Her hand was holding a-------black long barrel <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

(Lealith!? And that’s-------------<<Blaze>>!?)

During the time Tooru was opening his eyes in shock, Lealith then pulled the trigger making the 3rd shot then 4th shot in an instant and all of the guys collapsed.

In the middle of the sights looking at the guys suddenly collapsing at their surroundings, Tooru and Yurie was looking at the gold girl-------and was unable to take their eyes away from the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> she was holding.

The thought that revived in his mind, was the talk that was taught in class last time.

'''“The <<Blaze>> cannot be manifested as a weapon with complex structure”'''

That talk wasn’t a lie and, '''a <<Gun>> type <<Blaze>> is impossible originally'''.

But the <<Blaze>> being shown in Tooru and the group’s sights was unmistakably a <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

Lealith made her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> disappear and turned her heels around.

While looking at the {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} walking into the balcony, Tooru muttered.

“<<Exception>>………..”

<noinclude>

==Translation Notes and References==
<references group="2c" />

{{SimpleNav}}
</noinclude>

Absolute Duo:Volume 2 Chapter 2

2014-01-08T10:50:47Z

Aoi uchuu: this, that, was... words, phrases. contractions

==Chapter 2 『If I Borrow Your Words』==

===Part 1===

“So you are the <<Irregular>>----Kokonoe Tooru”

The first words the ''transfer student'' put in her mouth was that.

Going back about 1 minute back in time.

In the morning of the day the <<The Sublimation Ceremony>> will be commenced.

The HR started and right after Tsukimi introduced the transfer student------

Most of the classmate gasped……………even Tora too.

A beautiful {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} foreign girl with {{Furigana|blue gemstone eyes|Sapphire blue}} was the one who entered the classroom.

Not only her eyes and hair, her style consists of places which should be coming out came out, and places that should be tucked in, were tucked in; that charming style that would put foreign actresses to shame not only made the males, but also the females gasped too.

Adding on, she has an elegant and lovely charm drifting around her, and her red lips further emphasizes that fact.

If the same foreign beauty Yurie is a fantasy-like moon floating in the dark night then, the impression she give would be the shining sun in the grand sky.

Such a girl was placing one hand on her hips while the other hand on the table, and was in front staring right at me.

Thanks to her slouching forward a little bit, I was about to move my sights toward the two swaying bulges before the 2nd round of voice came flying over.

“……………hey, are you listening to me?”

“------uh!! So-sorry. I am Kokonoe……….”

“Okay. Kokonoe Tooru, I am interested in you. That’s why you'll come along with me”

I heard the same thing just one month ago but, the speech this time had a soft tone of command to it.

The gold girl acts as if it is only natural for her will to pass through, and turned her heels around without hearing my answer after walking.

“O-oi. Even if you tell me to come along, right now it’s-------“

“………….don’t make me say it twice”

She stopped her legs and said that sentence once she turned around.

“Errr---. It’s still in the middle of HR though…………”

Tsukimi was the first one who opened her mouth in the re-silenced classroom.

“You will '''''specially''''' have it permitted right? Tsukimi-sensei”

“…………Go ahead-----☆“

For an instant, although a vein popped up on her forehead, Tsukimi permitted the transfer student's selfish actions.

(What does this mean? That Tsukimi isn’t someone that would allow something like that…………..)

“…………….if you have a matter with Tooru then you can talk to him here”

Although Tora said that to her irritated-----

“Isn’t it okay since it’s something unrelated to you. I just want to have a talk in a place without any noise”

She flat out replied back.

Normally, his anger would burst out but, he probably was overpowered by her one sentence and glare. Tora stopped with a soft groan.

“Well. I’ll be heading out a bit. It’ll probably finish fast if it’s just talking”

I made a small smile to Tora and stood up.

Tentatively, as long as Tsukimi the home-room teacher has given her permission, there is no reason to refuse unreasonably.

I exited the classroom together with the gold girl.

The place we reached was the garden located between the school building and the dormitory.

Since it was the season when flowers and greens would prosper, the garden was covered entirely with multicolored roses.

Inside the choking scent of roses------I am bad with it------she unhesitatingly advanced through on the path of small stone pavements.

Further up ahead, there was a gazebo there and a female butler standing-by inside it.

The butler respectfully lowered her head to us--------rather than saying that, it was for the gold girl.

In the middle of the gazebo, there was a table with a white cloth with beautiful embroidery and a tea set was placed on top of it.

“………don't tell me we are going to have a tea party?”

“Yes, that’s right”

She says it as if she didn’t have to tell me about it and made a smile before sitting down and folding her long legs.

Although I have something I wanted to say and hear, I imitated her and sat down in the opposite side.

Once I sat down, the female butler poured the cup with milk tea.

“Thank you”

“………………….”

Even though I said my thanks, I was glared at for some reason.

(Why is that……….?)

Although I was feeling perplexed inside my mind, the gold girl siting in the opposite side did not bother about the butler’s manners and took a sip of the milk tea before making a satisfied smile.

“Well then, my business is-----“

“Nono, please tell me your name before your business. It looks like you know about me but, I know absolutely nothing about you”

I hurried and stopped the girl when she was going to start her one-sided business talk.

“Now that I think about it, I haven’t named myself yet. I am Lealith=Bristol. A student from a British school”

British school------

The official name is St Foren academy. I was told it was a sibling school founded by the Dawn organization similar to Kouryou academy.

It is the only school outside of Japan that can nurture <<Exceed>>’s, and just like Kouryou, graduated students will be affiliated to the vigilante forces of the organization. Since they would be dispatched overseas, after affiliated to the force, we would be meeting up with people from the British school eventually………..

“I see, a British school’s………”

“Yes…………..though I said that, I will be a student in Kouryou from today onwards”

Lealith winked and smiled.

The moment I saw that smiling face, it was the first time I felt she was a girl my age.

“Nice to meet you, Lealith. Incidentally, it would make me happy if you could tell me the reason why you know me”

She knows about my name, face, and also the <<Irregular>>.

And for the reason------

“I heard of rumors of the <<Irregular>> in the British school. I had them '''''specially''''' get the student documents and got your face and a name once I got here”

“I see………….”

Even though I nodded, I thought what happened to the protection of personal information in Kouryou academy.

(As expected it would be problematic if a student is able to browse through………..)

“………..Hn?”

I unintentionally raised my voice when I tasted the milk tea when I was in my thoughts.

“Th-this is very good………….”

“Fufu, its superb right”

I nodded at Lealith’s happy words.

It is clearly different from the milk tea I drank before until now.

It is this cupful of milk tea that greatly changed my impression of it because of the light aromatic smell going through my throat, and the exquisiteness of the moderate sweetness.

“Hn………….it was tasty, Sara”

“………………Much obliged, Ojou-sama”

The gold girl-----Lealith placed down with composed movements and the butler that has been silent until now opened her mouth for the first time.

(Ojou-sama, huh……………)

I already guessed it since she brought a personal butler here but, she is probably from a rich family.

But, I’ll just ask about that later after things ended.

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 2 Non-Colour 2.jpg|thumb]]

Maybe she grasped my thoughts, Lealith slightly nodded-----

“Well then, the main topic”

She pointed her finger at me and fluently said out words that my ears doubted.

“Kokonoe Tooru. From today onwards you are my <<Duo>>”

“………………huh?”

I wonder if there is any other response other than astonishment, when someone who I barely met for even one hour suddenly says that I am her partner?

“Wha-what did you say just now…………”

“Don’t make me say it twice”

“You won’t say…………..no, errrr……..me becoming your <<Duo>>……..?”

“It’s not you but Lealith”

“Ah, sorry………….wait, nononono wait a second. I have a <<Duo>> already so, I would be troubled if you suddenly tell me that, and isn’t it school rules that a group that has already been established will remain like that until graduation in the first place”

“Doesn’t matter. That’s because I am an <<Exception>>”

“<<Exception>>…………..?”

I pondered from the words I was not familiar with.

“………………but even so, I am troubled that you didn’t attend classes on the first day itself, Lealith=Bristol”

When I turned over to the voice that suddenly mixed into our conversation, a girl wearing a gothic dress was standing in front of a background with white roses.

“Pleasant meeting you. Chairman Tsukumo. This is a nice place. It’s an ideal place for tea time”

“Those words make me happy, Lealith. But, now isn’t tea time but class time”

“I’ll be '''''specially''''' pardoned from that”

Towards the threatening chairman, Lealith replied by pointing her fingers at me.

“I don’t care about the classes since I flew all over from British '''just to meet him''' in the first place. More importantly, how about you join us chairman?”

“………..I’ll accept that”

After the chairman made a soft sigh, she sat on the chair.

The butler was in the middle of brewing a new set of milk tea, and I said out the things I was pondering about from the words Lealith brought out just now.

“Hey Lealith. Judging from the way you said it just now, don’t tell me you transferred here to make me your <<Duo>>? Why are you going so far to make me………..?”

“'''You and I are the same''' <<{{Furigana|One and only|Unrivaled}}>>. That is why I have cordially came to pick you up because you are someone fitting to be my <<Duo>>. Be thankful, Kokonoe Tooru”

“………no, even if you tell me to be thankful, I have been telling you from just now that I have a <<Duo>> already. And the school rules too ------“
“You don’t have to tell me twice, I already know that”

Lealith interrupted my words and swung her hands.

“But, Kokonoe Tooru. What you are saying is something '''general'''”

I tried recalling back the things Tsukimi taught previously.

(…………..now that I think about it, she said unless there is a good reason)

“Which means it is okay for you team up again with a new <<Duo>> if you are '''out of the rule restrictions'''. For example, when there is a big difference in <<Level>> with the partner or that person has dropped out from school………….”

Lealith placed her fingers on her mouth and made a smile.

“And I---------the <<Exception>> am not bound by the rule restrictions”

“…………I don’t know what is <<Exception>>. But, do you think you will be forgiven if you say such selfish things?”

“It can be forgiven.……………Right, chairman?”

Lealith directed her sights towards the chairman who holds the biggest authority in Kouryou academy.

But, the Gothic girl silently drinks the milk tea.

Not long later, after emptying her cup, the chairman finally destroyed the silence.

“………….Kokonoe Tooru. If you wish for it, by the name of the chairman of Kouryou academy Tsukumo Sakuya, I will '''''specially''''' permit you to cancel your current <<Duo>>”

“Wha………….!?”

“See”

Contrastive to my shock, Lealith made a satisfied smile and said that.

“………………what will you do?”

“……………..”

Right now should I cancel my <<Duo>>-----Yurie or not.

“I don’t even need to think about it”

“It’s decided then”

I move my sights from the chairman to Lealith and clearly told her my intentions.

“Aah. It’s decided. I don’t wish to team up with Lealith so, I won’t cancel my current <<Duo>>. That’s my answer”

“Wha……..!?”

Lealith was stunned there with an expression filled with shock.

Opposite to that, the chairman made a quiet smile and nodded.

“I have clearly heard your intentions”

“Well then, I should be heading back to the classroom. Pardon me, chairman”

I made a light bow, and stood up.

“………..See you, Lealith”

“-----uh!! Wai-wait a second, Kokonoe Tooru!! Do you understand what you are saying right now!?”

“Aah, I understand. The answer is No. I will not team up with Lealith. If I were to borrow your words then, don’t make me say it twice”

I turned my back at the speechless Lealith and returned back to the classroom in a fast pace.

"ZeeeHaa". I heard my breathing I was probably making from, far away.

Naturally it was impossible. I just felt that because the fatigue is quite something.

(Fin-finally the goal huh…………)

Since I saw the school gate from far away, I squeeze out my remaining power.

As a punishment for sabotaging HR and class, I was forced to run.

That’s because Tsukimi said, "The only one special is only that Ojou-sama".

Although I felt it was unreasonable, i accepted the penal regulations but, the difficulty is beyond my imagination.

“Go-goal………..”

Inside the ringing echoes of the clock tower signifying lunch time, I reached in front of the school gate and sprawled on the ground with my limbs spread out.

(It’s been a long time since I ran until I lost all my stamina…………)

I repeatedly breathe heavily and my chest moves up and down.

The salty scented wind riding on the wind feels good on my hot body.

After I was dead tired for a while, the sun was suddenly blocked making a shade.

“Good work, Tooru”

When I slightly opened my eyes, the silver girl making the shade was there making a small smile.

“Please take this”

“Aah. Thanks………….”

I then raised my body, received the bottle and moisten my throat. This is exactly what the feeling of coming back to life is.

“*Kusu* it’s rare to see Tooru-kun exhausted……………”

“That was a disaster huh, Kokonoe”

It seems they came over to see my condition with Yurie.

Miyabi was giggling while Tachibana was making a wry smile.

“Haa………I went through something nasty”

“Fuun. That’s because you nonchalantly followed after that girl”

Leaning against the wall, Tora snorted wildly and said that. Tatsu was in the middle of muscle training behind him.

“……………I am unexpectedly someone popular”

“Reflect a little on yourself, you idiot!”

“Well well, calm down Tora. More importantly Kokonoe, what matter did she had with you?”

While entering between me and Tora, Tachibana asked about the event in the morning.

“Ah----………”

My words was clogged when I was about to reply, and I remembered the conversation I had with Lealith.

'''“From today onwards you are my <<Duo>>”'''

She thinks her intentions passing are something natural; I thought that she was a selfish fictional Ojou-sama that has come to real life.

I then never met up with Lealith after that.

In the end, she did not appear in the class during the first period and after second period I have been made to run the whole time.

“------Tooru?”

Yurie tilted her head from seeing me being silent.

No, Yurie wasn’t the only one. Everyone’s sights were concentrated on me.

“She-----you didn’t hear anything from Lealith?”

“Because she did not come back to class, I think the problem lies there before even asking her”

“I see……………errrr, Even though Lealith enrolled here from St Foren academy. It seems the topic <<Irregular>> was told there too so, she came over to ask regarding about that”

“Fuun. Is that really all?”

She’s sharp.

“Aah, that’s all”

I made a pretentious face towards Tora who asked another question and did not say out the offer to be her <<Duo>>.

It’s because I don’t want to make Yurie worried.

“More importantly, let’s hurry and go grab some food. I am so hungry that I am going to die. It’s going to be the <<Sublimation ceremony>> after I recover by eating meat to my heart’s content”

Hearing my comment, everyone laughed except for Tora who made a given up sigh.

However---

“Not only meat, you have to eat vegetables too, Kokonoe”

After laughing, Tachibana made a firm comeback………….

The <<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>> sublimation, is a little different from the one we went through during the enrollment ceremony.

We had new <<Luciful>> administered into our body using a jet injector on the nape of our neck-------until there is still the same but, the difference occurs after that.

Right after administration during the enrollment ceremony, the <<Astar>> floated up and a heat that I thought was going to burn me to death attacked my whole body but, none of that happened this time. It’s true that my body felt a little hot but, it was just in the level of a little hot.

“Fuu………..thank god I could successfully <<{{Furigana|Rank sublimation|Level up}}>>……….”

Around the time we finished the administration and exited the staff building, Miyabi made a big sigh and stroke down her chest.

“It’s because the results of your training is coming up”

When I directed a smile at her after hitting that small back of hers, Miyabi became shy.

The sublimation can’t be done if the mental state and physical state does not match up with the <<Level>>.

Because she heard that, Miyabi became especially happy.

Miyabi knows clearly about the fact that she is the most inferior in terms of stamina inside the lineup of people that received the special sublimation.

Miyabi’s <<Duo>> Tachibana showed her happiness in her success for the <<{{Furigana|Rank sublimation|Level up}}>>.

“Fufu, with this everyone here has quickly accomplished the condition to rise to 2nd year. It’s a nice thing to be able to continue socializing with this lineup for the next while”

(Now that I think back, the people who don’t raise their <<Level>> will be dealt with expulsion…………)

“………..Fuun. There is still that possibility of dropping out of school if that someone is unable to follow the training”

“Uuu………….”

Miyabi groaned from Tora’s sentence.

(Seriously, this guy says too much…………)

Although I made a sigh in my heart, I raised a lively voice and hit Miyabi’s back once again.

“It’s going to be okay. If things get tough, I’ll pull you along even if I need to tie you up with a rope”

“To-Tooru-kun…………..”

“Fufu, Kokonoe isnt the only one, I will do that too. As Miyabi’s <<Duo>>, I vow I will not let you meet up with a bitter experience like dropping out from school”

“Miyabi. I will help too”

After opening her eyes wide from our words, Miyabi said [Thank you] and smiled.

“Tora. You have to help her when the time comes, for the portion of unease you caused to Miyabi. You’re a comrade too”

“Uu………Fu-fuun. I have no choice then, I’ll lend my hand when that time comes…………but there is one thing I need to say, I am not your comrade but rival, Tooru”

After I replied by saying "I get it, I get it" to Tora who was pointing his finger at me------

“Well, if Kokonoe doesn’t work hard on your general subjects, rather than pulling Miyabi your status will be overturned so you better be careful”

A hurtful comment to the ears came from Tachibana.

“Uguh………….! Even Tachibana’s English is the same as me!”

“E-everyone has a subject they are bad with!!”

Tora made a grand sigh when we were having such a pitiful quarrel.

“<<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>> huh……………it somehow does not feel real at all huh, Yurie-chan”

“Ya----. That’s true. If our appearance changed then it would be easier though…………..”

(It somehow does not feel real at all, huh………………….)

I recalled back the similar conversation I had with the ponytail girl last time and felt nostalgic.

(Even though one month have not passed yet………..I wonder if Imari is doing well)

But------

I didn’t have time to sink into sentimentally.

“Kuhah. If that’s the case then----want to try it out?”

“-------!!”

A voice suddenly mixed inside the conversation.

In an instant, I looked back at the staff building when I was pulled by my heart and placed my hand on the <<Astar>> on my chest at the same time.

“Tsukimi…………!!”

“Add sensei, <<Irregular>>”

The rabbit ear headband was swaying in front of my sights.

She was leaning on the wall with her back, and was making an unpleasant smile.

“Yooto………well, leaving that aside, manifestation of the <<Blaze>> without permission is against school rules”

Tsukimi came closer while being directed with painful sights coming from everyone in the spot.

“…………what do you want?”

“Since you all said it doesn’t feel real so, I am saying do you want to confirm it or not”

There was only one imagination that comes to mind from those words-----it is to fight.

“Tsukimi-sensei. I know about how strong you are. But even so, are you saying that you will cause an uproar by having these numbers of people as your opponents?”

“Kuhahah. Didn’t I tell you I don’t want to be fired after reemployment, honor student”

Tsukimi passed by us and in a defenseless state------even though we can’t lower our guard------exposed her back towards us.

“Well, forget about that and follow me”

After turning around and saying that, Tsukimi once again face her back at us and walked away.

As for us, we could not read Tsukimi’s intentions and followed her while being cautious.

“This is…………..”

The place we were brought to was the outside training room.

Our shoes were covered with sand and the facility resembled closely a coliseum with all the mortar seats surrounding the area.

We were led to a place that had yet to be used in classes and was off-limits during the <<{{Furigana|New blade battle|Newcomer battle}}>>, it was the same facility that we have only stepped into since the facility tour right after enrolling into the school.

“………..so, what do you want us to confirm here?”

“Will you all stop with those scary faces already. Even though I told you all I have no plans on hurting you all already, what a troublesome bunch…………..”

While we were thinking where this is and not releasing our cautiousness, Tsukimi started calling someone in a worriless manner.

“Heya, it’s me. Aah, right now in the training room. ………..yes, the outside one. Aah, that’s because '''I will be letting them use it'''. Hn, then I’ll be switching with the <<Irregular>>”

She suddenly threw the phone she was holding and I caught it in panic.

(It means I have to talk to the person on the phone right………?)

And when I was about to talk out the moment I touched it on my ears--------

'''“Is this Kokonoe-kun. It’s me Mikuni”'''

“Mikuni-sensei…………!?”

When I said out the name of the person I was talking with on the phone, everyone concentrated their sights on me.
'''
“I have heard it from Tsukimi-sensei. You all might feel uneasy from the previous matter but, right now she will not hurt you all. If you feel uneasy then I will send some observers there…………”'''

“……………… I understand. I’ll ask for it just in case”

I hesitated for a bit but, I ended the call after calling some people here just in case.

“Looks like observers will be coming”

“Kuhah. I have observers on me huh, I am not trusted at all huh……….”

Tsukimi said that after I gave a brief explanation.

“I am not that pure to honestly believe someone that almost killed me”

“Fuun. More importantly, I would like to know the reason about why have you brought us to a place like this”

“Because you all became <<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>>, so with a service in mind, I am allowing all of you to confirm the extents of that enhancement. Of course, I have received permission for you all to use your <<Blaze>> so fight to your hearts content”

I see. That’s why she said "I will be letting them use it" to Mikuni-sensei just now.

“I think I swallowed most of the idea but, don’t tell me you are planning to take all of us alone?”

“Kuhah. I wanted to do that but I gave up. We don’t know when we would be putting killing intent in the <<Blaze>>”

At the very least, I think our side won’t do that-------that’s what I would like to think but, I feel uneasy about Tora and Tatsu though.

“……….that means, each of us will have to decide with which opponent to go against among ourselves”

She is still someone I can’t trust but, now that there are observers being sent here, Tsukimi probably can’t do anything strange.

More importantly, since there is permission to use the <<Blaze>>, there is no way we won’t be drawn to it.

“One team will be left out if we fight in <<Duo>>. Let’s go with a one on one then”

[Tooru. Fight------] [Kokonoe. If it is okay with you, would you like a match?]

Almost at the same time. Tora was the one faster to a certain extend but I decided to accept Tachibana’s challenge.

“Sorry Tora. I usually have practice matches with you normally”

In the end, we went with a team up which we usually don’t go with and we decided to make Yurie fight with Tora, and Miyabi with Tatsu.

The observer appeared at a good timing and we started the <<{{Furigana|Blaze match|Practice}}>>.

Miyabi and Tatsu were made to be the ones to go first and we took audience in the audience seat in order to not disrupt them.

(Rather than calling it a rare team up…………is having Tatsu the opponent really okay?)

She has a mental state of being bad with males and Tatsu’s physical strength is the best in the class.

Miyabi said she would do her best so, Tatsu would probably hold back but, I could not wipe off the uneasiness.

But-------

“I-I am coming, Tatsu-kun! Teyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa<nowiki>--------</nowiki>!!”

“---------!!”

In an instant, I wasn’t the only one who gasped.

Holding the <<{{Furigana|Chivalry lance|Lance}}>> and kicking the ground, Miyabi closed in the gap between Tatsu with shocking speed.

It was not to the extent of blinding speed.

However, it is an unexpected speed from the Miyabi we knew until now.

It seems the same case for Tatsu too-----

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Dozuu*!! The strong impact shook the training room.

His stomach was pierced through and was skewered to the wall just like that.

If we had not known the specialty of the <<Blaze>>, it would be a shocking scenery where we would avert our eyes from………..

“Wawah, are you okay, Tatsu-ku<nowiki>~~~~~~~</nowiki>n!?”

Miyabi panicked. Staring at them from the audience seats, we were wrapped in shock.

“It is a surprise. It’s at the same speed as Tooru's”

Although slightly, even Yurie opened her eyes wider as she said her thoughts.

The factor that should be shocking wasn’t her speed.

The power that brought Tatsu from the middle of the training room to the wall was also observed.

“To think this much change occurred with just one <<Level>> going up………….”

I wonder how much it has occurred for me, if Miyabi has changed this much.

Those thoughts worked up my feelings and when I stood up to go down to the fighting area, my arm was grabbed.

“Tooru. Let us go first”

Maybe just like me or even more than me, Tora was making a high-spirited expression.

(Well, I did refuse Tora’s challenge just now……..)

It’s not like he would forgive me with this but I decided to pull back here.

After bringing the fainted Tatsu to the audience seat to sleep, the second battle started.

“Tora. I am going at full power”

“Bring it on”

Yurie and Tora. I don’t need to say this but, Yurie is the fastest in the first year. However, Yurie’s opponent Tora also has good speed coming after her.

Both of them have speed as their weapon. However, Yurie attacks furiously even though her self-taught skills have refined parts, and because Tora has learned martial arts for many years so, his attacks have a distinctive characteristic of attacking in a pointed and accurate manner.

“They would be equal on <<Fist Practice>> but, things would be different when it comes to <<{{Furigana|Blaze match|Practice}}>>. What is your insight, Kokonoe?”

“That’s because this is the first time I saw Tora using his <<Blaze>> to fight. But even so, I think it would be Yurie. Yurie is a different person when she is with her <<{{Furigana|Twin blades|Double}}>>. Even for myself, if I am asked whether or not I can win against her in a serious battle, I think it would be hard to say”

However, the results will be unknown if I use {{Furigana|Thunder god’s strike|Mjolnir}}.

Since it is impossible for me to direct it towards Yurie, the assumption is out of question.

“I see. I have the same opinion as you since I fought Yurie with her <<{{Furigana|Twin blades|Double}}>>------oh, they moved!!”

Since we saw Miyabi’s movements just now, I thought we wouldn’t be that surprised.

But, we were astonished again at the speed of both of them the moment they moved at the same time.

Yurie took the upper hand using a speed slightly exceeding Tora’s.

Opposite to her cute appearance, the <<Saber>> she held with both hands was attacking wildly from left and right.

However, Tora blocked the blade with the <<{{Furigana|Symbolic short sword|Katar}}>> from the right and avoided the left blade by slightly twisting his body.

Yurie did not stop and continued pursuit------ the instant I thought that, Tora dodged and continued thrusting. Even though the <<{{Furigana|Symbolic short sword|Katar}}>> scratched her clothes, it is far away from a decisive strike.

After countless exchanges, the sound of blades slicing the air and the sound of steel clashing continue echoing.

But, the fight dance did not continue forever and the time of conclusion has come.

Right after Yurie reacted to the blade aiming to the side of her head by evading with bending her upper body, Tora’s body spun like a spinning top and made a continuous side sweep.

If it was me, I would use my <<Shield>> to block it or perform a back step to make distance------

Whatever I pick, I would probably be in a defensive stance.

But Yurie is different.

She reacted to Tora’s attack in an instant and dodged the <<{{Furigana|Symbolic short sword|Katar}}>> by sinking her body as if she was crawling on the ground.

At this moment, this match was determined.

Yurie swung the <<{{Furigana|Twin blades|Double}}>> at the same time with standing up.

Just like the fangs of a wolf, the 2 blades attacking from left and right, slashed Tora’s stomach.

“Are you okay?”

“Fuun, this much isn’t a problem…………… I will win next time………!”

When I asked Tora who came back to the audience seat, he replied back with a hating to lose answer.

However, it looks like Tora could not hide the exhausted part of his <<Soul>> which has been slashed, and made a big sigh the moment he lowered his waist.

“Next off is Tooru’s turn”

I called out to Yurie, when I stood up and was about to go down towards the training area.

“Aah. Now that I have seen such a good match, I have to put up a good fight that won’t lose to that………….and, more importantly Yurie, take this………..”

I took off my jacket and handed it to Yurie by hanging it on top of her body.

“-----------?”

That’s because just now, the part scratched from the <<{{Furigana|Symbolic short sword|Katar}}>>---------the part around her collarbone was cut, causing her skin to be exposed.

“It isn’t cold now……….?”

Speaking of which, it would be hotter after a battle and Yurie was tilting her head.

“…………It isn’t good for a girl to show off her skin”

It wasn’t particularly an exposure that was bad, for a young man’s education but, this is just in case.

“…………….. Thank you very much”

From my explanation, Yurie finally understood and her cheeks were slightly blushing pink in color.

“Please do your best, Tooru. I will do my best in my cheer too………..with this jacket part too”

Together with the last sentence, she grabbed the jacket slightly tighter by rounding her hand and showed a small smile.

After I went down to the training area, Tachibana the one who I was going to confront was making a happy expression.

“It has been since the <<{{Furigana|New blade battle|Newcomer battle}}>> that I had a match with you. But this time, I’ll have you hand over the win”

“It was as a <<Duo>> that time so, it’s not like I personally won……….that is why for this match, I don’t plan on giving away the win”

“Fufu, bring it on!”

At the same time as the signal, Tachibana and I kicked the ground while aiming at each other.

“Here I come!!”

“-------!?”

Tachibana and also I were shocked.

After looking at the previous two battles-------the fight Yurie and the rest had, I had already confirmed the enhancement of the physical abilities from the <<{{Furigana|Rank sublimation|Level up}}>>.

However, because it was beyond my imaginations when i confirmed it actually with my own body, I became bewildered.

To think my step in would become this fast from sublimating to <<{{Furigana|II|Level 2}}>>.

Inside the feeling of the almost weightless feeling of my body and yet not my body, I launched a thrust.

“Kuh………..I won’t let you do it so easily!!”

Regaining her composure instantaneously, Tachibana attempted to block my fist.

In regards of defense skills, there is no one in class that could come next to Tachibana.

Furthermore, it was also the same with switching from defense.

“Seii!!”

Tachibana blocked my fist with her palm and twisted her body-------

The energy of the thrust was used just like that, and I was thrown away.

But, in order to avoid being struck, I turned my body mid-air and landed facing over to Tachibana.

“Tou……..! Not bad, Tachibana! Your reflex speed also increased-------wait, Uoooh!?”

Right in the middle of my words, I noticed the metal drip approaching right in front of me, and I jumped to the side.

“That was dangerous……………”

The speed of the metal drip could not even compare to that time I saw during the <<Newcomer battle>>.

“Fuu, not bad for avoiding that one. But, how about this one!?”

The battle between me and Tachibana turned into a much simpler battle compared to the previous 2.

The focus point of this match is for me to pass through the <<{{Furigana|Iron chain|Chain}}>> and enter her chest area.

(………………at times like this, I envy Yurie and Tora who has light foot works!)

Evading the <<{{Furigana|Iron chain|Chain}}>> several times, and sometimes blocking with my <<Shield>>, I took the chance and closed in the distance.

“Over here…………!!”

I prepared my fist after slipping past, but-----

“Naïve!!”

The foot I stepped in was tangled with the <<{{Furigana|Iron chain|Chain}}>>.

Tachibana then pulled the <<{{Furigana|Iron chain|Chain}}>> just like that, and my balance collapsed when my foot was pulled away.

Without losing that chance, Tachibana grabbed my collar and sleeves and performed a osotogari<ref group ="2b">Judo move, a major sweeping leg throw</ref>, slamming my back towards the ground.

In a flash, Tachibana moved to the next attack but------

A problem occurred over here.

Tachibana then performed a scarf hold.

Explaining in an easier way on why that is a problem, '''Tachibana’s breast was being pushed at my face'''.

“<nowiki>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</nowiki>!?”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Funyan**funyan**funyan**funyan**funyan**funyan*.

Those soft lumps pressed on my face bounced. It kept bouncing.

Even though I struggled desperately in half panic, Tachibana did not let me go and pressed her breast even more.

“Tsukimi-sensei. This is different from a defeat but, since I completely sealed his movement, is it okay to say this is my win in this case?”

“Kuhaha. Why not? An oppai<ref group ="2b">Woman breast</ref> press feels like close to heaven too in a different kind of way”

“Eh……..? O-Oppai………Eh?”

Tachibana stopped……………while pressing her breast towards my face.

“Kokonoe!? Wha-what did she meant by close to heaven! Did you wish for this match with those shameless thoughts!? Yo-Yo-Yo………You foooolllllll!!”

Tachibana then *Pyon* hopped up and separated from me, and ran away with a completely red face.

“It’s a misunderstanding------------!!”

Although I shouted towards the back that was getting smaller-------

[To-Tooru-kun you pervert……….][…………you damn lecher][So Tooru was perverted……………]

“Like I said, it is a misunderstanding------------!!”

3 of them from the side shown perplexity, given up and, a surprised reaction respectively and the rabbit ear was hugging her stomach while making an unbearable laugh.

(I became stronger right…………?)

I thought that when, I recalled back to the match that happened in the afternoon in a daze.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Pyuuu* the sound of the wind was produced when I swung my fist.

(It’s true I became stronger but----------)

Being strong isn’t my only goal.

I want a strength that can pierce through that person with my fangs.

(It’s still not enough……………)

There is nothing to measure the difference between me and that person but, I can tell from feeling.

The current me------no, it’s better to say that I am not even close to him.

After a while, Yurie with flushed {{Furigana|white skin|Snow white}} after a bath, returned back to the room.

“Tooru. There is something I want to request for tomorrow”

“What is the request?”

“It’s tomorrow but, is it okay for you to accompany me?”

“I don’t mind, is there something going on?”

“Ya---. It’s Sunday too so I want to go and buy outside clothing. It has been hot recently and I only have thick clothes……….”

It is still May so I don’t think it’s that hot but, it seems the heat can already be said to be summer to Yurie who was brought up in a cold country.

“I get it, I’ll accompany you. But, where are we going?”

“I have not decided yet. I was thinking of going to a good shop nearby. If there is one”

“I see. Well, we can probably find clothes if we search in a station building”

“Ya----. But, I think walking without a plan is a problem so, I’ll go ask Miyabi and the rest”

“Aah, that’s true-------and, wait! Are you planning to go like that……….!?”

Hearing my question, Yurie made a puzzled expression.

It is the usual style of her in her dress shirt form freely exposing her slender white legs.

Yurie didn't notice how dangerous that form could be on a floor lined up with male rooms.

As expected, there isn’t anyone that would attack her but----------

Before even that, it’s true that I felt somewhat unwilling to let them see Yurie like this.

“I-I will ask. Yurie………you prepare the apple tea”

“Ya---. I understand”

I stood up and left the room before hearing a reply.

(What the hell am I thinking…………)

While making a sigh, I walked in the corridor with less people in it.

I am not sure why I have that kind of feelings.

Is it because I don’t want the surroundings to misunderstand after someone sees Yurie like that?

It’s true that there is that but, I feel there is something wrong.

(…………something like, not wanting to expose my daughter to the eyes of inquisitiveness?)

I might have received the influence from Yurie looking at me as a father figure.

It felt fitting when I thought that and I made a wry smile while ascending up the stairs.

I reached the floor lined up with the girls rooms and, abruptly met up with Tachibana (#Finished kneeling on the ground during the day)

“Ko-Kokonoe!?”

“Ooh, nice timing. Hey Tachibana, actually-------“

However, I could not end the last part of my sentence.

“I-I am really sorry about what happened in the afternoon! Al-alright, I will be off then……!!”

Maybe she remembered the scarf hold in the afternoon, her face turned red in a flash and she descended down the stairs.

Her attitude is like that right now, and she didn’t show up during dinner time too so, it seems she was quite bothered about the matter in the afternoon.

(I have no choice. I’ll go ask Miyabi and quickly head back)

Thanks to Tachibana making a squeaky voice before leaving, a few number of girls nearby directed their sights towards me wondering what happened.

While feeling embarrassed from the sights, I headed towards Miyabi’s room in a fast pace.

“Wha-what’s wrong, Tooru-kun………?”

Bringing her face out from the door after I knocked, Miyabi looked up at me in a little surprised manner.

“Aah actually, I want to go buy clothes, so I came to ask whether or not if there is a good shop nearby”

“If that is the case, then I recommend the a la mode shopping mall. Its nearby, and it’s very big I think.

Together with the direction towards that shopping mall, Miyabi introduced a recommended gelato shop too.

“I see, thank you…………ah, if you are free, Miyabi would you want to come with?”

“Fuee!?”

If it is buying clothes for Yurie, a girl’s opinion would be better than a guy’s so I thought of inviting her but--------

“Aaah, errr, errr, my heart preparation……….!! A-a date so suddenly…………..!?”

“--------!? Yo-you’re mistaken! It’s not a date! There is one more person coming!!”

“Eh?”

“Rather, I was planning to go buy Yurie’s clothing. Sorry for the confusing words”

“Ah……..I-I see. Ahahaha……………I am also sorry, for making such a weird misunderstanding………..”

“No, it’s because I said it in a way that caused you to misunderstand so, I am really sorry”

An unpleasant atmosphere flown by.

“So…………what are you going to do? Would you want to come with us tomorrow?”

“Ah, errm………I have a promise with Tomoe-chan to go out with her tomorrow so……….”

That’s why with Tachibana too--------is what I thought but, I immediately reconsidered.

From the reaction I saw just now, Tachibana is clearly not the type that would completely forget about the matter once its tomorrow and come with us, it’s probably better not to invite her unreasonably.

“It can’t be helped then. Alright then, I should be heading back soon. Thanks, Miyabi”

“Ah, un…………good night Tooru-kun”

After saying good bye to Miyabi who was nodding, I decided to head back to the lower floor.

“Together with Yurie tomorrow huh………..”

===Part 2===

“To-Tooru-kun and Yurie-chan are going out together………..”

Miyabi closed the door and muttered.

She heard clearly that Yurie is not Tooru’s lover from his mouth.

More importantly, judging from the point of inviting 3 people to go out, Miyabi probably knows both of them don’t have that kind of relationship but------------

What will happen tomorrow?

Then after that?

For the both of them, who pass a lot of time together, there is no guarantee their relationship won't change forever.

Much less, Miyabi normally thinks Yurie, who is the same sex as her, has a very cute appearance together with her personality.

That is why; there is no reason to be found for Tooru not to be attracted to the silver girl.

(I-its Tooru-kun’s freedom to go out with whoever he wants………….)

Even though she thought that, it was complex in her mind.

Miyabi is not self-aware of her own feelings towards Tooru.

It’s true that she trusts him the most out of any of the opposite sex she met until now but, she has yet to reach to conclusion of the affections deep inside her.

But even so, unconsciously from under her self-awareness, she leaked out a big sigh.

(As expected, I wished I said okay……..to go together with them…….)

How long would it take Miyabi to be self-aware of the reason to make her think like that?

“What’s wrong, Miyabi?”

Returning back to the room at that moment and seeing Miyabi standing there at the entrance, Tomoe asked strangely but, the reply that came back was a dry smile.

“By the way, where should we go tomorrow? If Miyabi doesn’t have any wishes then I am thinking of Kasai aquarium-------“

“Ah……..”

Towards Tomoe’s question, a place floated inside Miyabi’s mind.

“You have a place in mind?”

“Errrr, somewhere like A la mode…………..”

“A la mode? Didn’t we go there just last week? Is there something you forgot to buy?”

“Eh? E,errr, I heard To-Tooru-kun and Yurie-chan were going together so, err……………I-I was curious……..”

Originally, it would be normal to trick her in a time like this but; Miyabi said the reason in extreme honesty.

“Kokonoe and Yurie are……!?”

(Both of them together------which means………..a-a date?)

The scenery that immediately popped out inside Tomoe’s head from those simple words, was the scenery of Tooru and a naked Yurie hugging each other that happened a while back.

(Im-impossible right…….?)

She was explained to, the situation of Tooru and Yurie, agreed, and believed the talk.

However, once she gains a doubt, that doubt will expand in a blink of an eye.

“C-can we……….?"

The answer Tomoe gave from Miyabi’s question was------

“i-I would have never thought both of them would……………..Thi-this is because they are in an illicit relationship. That is why---------I think it would be good to watch over them from the shadows, Umu”

It was a trailing--------with a fake excuse as a cover.

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==Translation Notes and References==
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