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Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 4

2018-10-30T08:34:33Z

Foggy glasses: Minor grammar changes.

==Chapter 4 - Chevron Royal Family's 'Iron rule'==
===Part 1===
After lunch, Ash and the others rushed towards Julius Hall.

“Run faster! Punctuality is part of the Knight Country’s basic training, and as a Princess, I’m personally setting an example!”

While running across the campus grounds as other students went by, Silvia was urging Ash and Eco. Although an announcement was made that classes would finish at noon today, the Student Council had agreed that they would hold their meeting in the afternoon. Until ‘Ansarivan's Five Hundred Years Festival’ successfully concluded, they would hold a meeting every day.

“Seriously, if Oscar didn't cause trouble all of a sudden, we wouldn't be in such a hurry right now…are you okay Eco?”

Ash looked at Eco’s face from the side.

“T-This level of speed is perfectly fine!”

Eco clenched her teeth, and then suddenly mustered her strength to speed up. She overtook Ash, and stayed in line with Silvia.

“Hmph! Do you think you can overtake me!?”

As soon as she found out that Eco had caught up to her, a sense of rivalry was sparked within Silvia. She increased the stride of her legs, and her speed gradually rose.

“Hey hey! You two don’t need to compete over something as trivial as this!”

Because of the strenuous exercise after eating, the side of Ash’s abdomen began to ache, but no matter what he said, both Eco and Silvia refused to slow down. Their distance from Ash was also increasing with every step.

“Those two have too much spirit…!”

All that Ash could do was try to match those two and increase his pace. Although he had vaguely noticed the reason behind why Eco and Silvia were so competitive, as soon as he thought about it deeply, the side of his abdomen began hurting again, so he decided to simply focus on running. The race between Eco and Silvia continued all the way until they arrived at Julius Hall. Although it wasn't a violent showdown in which they were risking their lives, neither of them were able to give up in the middle, and they arrived at Julius Hall at almost the same time — at least in the eyes of Ash, the results were so.

“Haa, haa<ref>SFX for strenuous breathing.</ref>…I, I won…”

“What nonsense are you saying! C-C-Clearly it was me…haa, haa…”

By the time that Ash arrived at Julius Hall, the two people had an exhausted look on their face as they slumped over on the front porch. The two people sat back to back, breathless. Their bodies were covered in sweat and their uniforms were soaked, but their bodies also exuded a sultry heat. Perhaps because of this heated aura that they radiated, the two of them appeared more attractive than usual, and Ash couldn't stop his heart from beating a little faster.

“Really, have you two finished arguing now?”

In order to rid these dirty thoughts from his mind, Ash spoke while trying to think of something else.

“I don’t need to be told that by you!”

“It’s not your turn to talk here!”

The two of them immediately retorted, and Ash shrank back like a turtle hiding in its shell. At that time, a nonchalant voice floated down from the window of the second floor.

“This match was won by Silvia due to the slightest difference in the size of her chest.”

When Ash raised his head to look up, he noticed that Rebecca was standing in front of the second floor window. She leisurely crossed her arms over her chest, as she happily looked down upon Eco and Silvia.

“However — the meeting has already begun. You three should reflect on this properly.”

After saying that, Rebecca's figure disappeared from the window. Although signs of life couldn't be seen, her cold tone instead made everyone’s hair stand on end, and Ash felt so frightened that he was unable to move.

“A-As a Princess of the Knight Country, I was actually late…how careless!”

After Rebecca announced the victor, Silvia didn't even have the time to feel happy about it before being cast into the abyss of frustration.

“Fufu, serves you right!”

Upon seeing Silvia’s depressed state, Eco puffed out her chest in triumph while she spoke, as if she was the proud winner.

“Hey hey! What are you so proud about!?”

Ash quickly reproached Eco’s childish behaviour.

===Part 2===
—The meeting room on the second floor of Julius Hall.

“Most of our members are here, so allow me to explain our task for today to everyone.”

Rebecca put on a serious expression as she looked at everyone.

“You should all know that the Five Hundred Years Festival also has a long-distance racing event. The race route follows the ‘Aries Dragon Riding Festival’ route, and the midpoint of the race will pass through Fianna Forest. So today, we’ll need to go to each of the checkpoints in Fianna Forest, so that we can set up magic incense burners to ward off the beasts.”

Jobs of this kind were also part of the Student Council’s responsibilities, and Ash, who was unaware of this, felt rather surprised. He thought that this would have been a job for the teaching faculty members. This once again allowed Ash to deeply understand just how heavy the responsibilities that the Student Council members shouldered were.

“In addition, we will divide this work into three groups. Although the Student Council members are carefully selected from an elite group, the forest has winged lizards, and it is also the habitat of many dangerous beasts. Recently, there have also been reported sightings of two-headed snakes, so please be sure to increase your vigilance. As for the group arrangement—”

Jessica and Silvia simultaneously spoke up to interrupt Rebecca's words.

“I want to be in the same group as Ash-sama!”

“I-I also hope…that I can be in the same group as Ash.”

It was clearly the same idea, but Jessica said it without blushing or stuttering, whilst Silvia seemed somewhat hesitant towards it; Rebecca's response to those two was like that of an adult admonishing a naughty child.

“If everyone is going to pick their own group members, we won’t come to a decision until it’s dark, right? I think that we should draw by lots as a fair way of deciding. Max, bring that thing out.”

“Yes, President.”

As instructed, Max placed a small box on the table, as if it had been prepared for this occasion. The volume of the box was about thirty cubic centimetres, with an open hole at the top.

“Group A will have three people, while groups B and C will have two people. Well, allow me to be the first to draw.”

The group that Max drew was B. He then put on a businesslike expression, and handed the box to Jessica who was beside him.

“I’m going to draw!”

Jessica put her hands together in prayer to Saint Rosa Maria first, and then enthusiastically drew from the box — the result was also group B.

“Ahh…!”

Jessica revealed a bitter expression, and then stared at the creator of the ballot box, Max, from the edge of her vision. Max wasn't sure if he was the reason for her imposing manner, and seemed somewhat agitated. The next to draw was Lucca, and she drew A. And then Eco also drew A. It was then Ash’s turn to draw.

“………”

He could feel that both Eco and Lucca were glaring at him with eager eyes. There were three places in group A, so Ash didn't rule out the possibility that he would draw the last place in that group. Ash nervously swallowed, and then reached into the box with his hand. His fingers touched several strips of paper. Ash hesitated for a moment, before he made up his mind to take one of them.

“I’m C.”

“Aww…what a pity.”

Lucca made a long sigh in dismay. In contrast, Eco scowled back.

“Hey! If you’re my knight, have the courage to draw out A!”

“Don’t be so unreasonable!”

Silvia, who received the box from Ash, murmured ‘muu’ in a low voice, as she did not seem ready to draw.

“Why aren't you drawing, Silvia? Even if you want to get ahead, you may not necessarily draw the character that you want, you know?”

Rebecca smiled as she joked, and Silvia then revealed a somewhat embarrassed expression.

“T-There isn't a particular character that I want to draw!”

“Oh, is that so? If you have the luck of drawing C, you’ll be able to be in the forest alone with just you and Ash. That’s rather nice isn't it, Silvia?”

“I absolutely do not have that kinds of idea!”

Silvia’s entire face reddened, and she quickly pulled out a strip from the box without any further deliberation. She then carefully unfolded the piece of paper…

“It’s A!”

Silvia revealed an expression of despair as if the end of the world had come, as she gazed at the piece of paper in her hand.

“—It looks like the groups have been decided. Group A is Eco, Lucca and Silvia. Group B is Max and Jessica. And lastly, group C is me and Ash. Well then, let’s all immediately head out for Fianna Forest!”

In contrast to Rebecca's passionate tone, the remainder of the meeting room was filled with a low mood, as if they were attending a funeral. As the protagonist that everyone was fighting for, Ash was so nervous that he couldn't stop cold sweat from dripping down his forehead. It was because he had to accompany Rebecca on the same team for this task.

''—I have to do everything I can for this job, I can’t weigh Rebecca-san down.''

===Part 3===
Fianna Forest was located to the northwest of Ansarivan Academy. Students often visited here for combat training or routine school activities, so it was a deeply familiar forest to students.

“Good, we’ll descend here.”

While standing majestically on top of Cú Chulainn's head, she ordered it to descend. Cú Chulainn uttered out a loud roar, and then descended in the southwest corner of the forest. There was a small gap amidst the dense canopy of trees, like a small plaza within the forest. Cú Chulainn's extraordinarily large body was indeed inconvenient for movement inside the forest. Thus it so happened that this clearing was a good resting place for Cú Chulainn. As soon as Cú Chulainn descended, it lied down on the floor to rest. Although it looked like a mighty and sacred dragon that none could oppose, it was obedient like a dog towards Rebecca.

“Be careful, you don’t want to break the magic incense burners.”

After Rebecca reached the ground with light movements, she turned around to look at Ash.

“I’ll be careful, Rebecca-san.”

Ash carefully jumped down from Cú Chulainn's head. In his hand was a bag filled with three large magic incense burners. Although they didn't look too different from an ordinary incense burners on the outside, there were Bright Dragon Crystals inside. Simply setting it within the forest would cause it to activate Dragon Magic, and it would emit a scent that wild animals disliked. But that scent didn't have any effect on dragons, hence it could be considered to be an essential tool when holding a dragon riding competition in the wild.

“Be careful not to get lost, Ash.”

Rebecca cautioned him with a joke, and Ash couldn't help smiling wryly.

“Don’t worry. No matter how vast the sea of trees are, my eyes will be firmly stuck to the <Scarlet Empress> because it’s impossible to lose sight of you.

“R-Really.”

It was rare of Rebecca to stutter when talking. She ‘ahem’ cleared her throat, and then turned her back towards Ash. A fresh aroma could be smelt from her light hair as it drifted in the air.

“I never thought that you were a man who would say such sweet words. Or are those purely words without any intention…”

After Rebecca quietly muttered that, she began to walk along the forest trail.

“…?”

''—Did I say something to offend her…?''

With an uneasy feeling, Ash caught up with Rebecca's footsteps. The smell of the damp earth roused a sense of nostalgia within him. The sound of chirping birds could be heard everywhere. Through the slits between the branches, the autumn sun streamed down from overhead.

''—Fianna Forest huh…''

Ash could not help recalling those memories. The spring of this year that he could not forget. Whilst Ash was participating in the ‘Aries Dragon Riding Festival’, he encountered Milgauss and Anya. In the instant that he was able to successfully repel Anya, he lost his balance and fell into the valley. And then Eco was born—

“What is it Ash? You look restless.”

“—W-Wah!”

Ash was immensely shocked. Rebecca, who had originally walked ahead of him had imperceptibly moved beside him without him noticing, and was peering at his face. Upon seeing that Rebecca's face was so close to his own, Ash couldn't stop his heartbeat from intensifying.

“I’m sorry! I was just a little lost in thought…”

“Ho. You wouldn't be indulging in a strange delusion with me in it, would you?”

“I swear it’s absolutely not! I wouldn't dare to be so disrespectful!”

Rebecca's direct words were too sudden, so Ash could not help blushing. The smile on Rebecca's face seemed to show that she was amused by Ash’s reaction.

“‘Wouldn't dare to be so disrespectful’ huh…having people respect me so much is certainly something to be happy about, but as a woman, it would be a lie to say that I’m not lonely.”

Rebecca suddenly looked at Ash with a pair of sullen eyes, causing his mind to fall into a commotion.

''—As a woman.''

When Rebecca said those words, her slightly moist lips radiated a soft and glossy glow.

“Ash!”

Rebecca suddenly used force to push Ash down.

“Eh…?”

The bag with the incense burners inside them dropped onto the ground with a ‘donk’ sound. Without any resistance, Ash was pushed down into a bush, and his body lay on top of the moist soil. In an instant, Rebecca's body also pressed down on top of his. Their bodies were firmly pressed against each other with one on top and the other below. The warmth of Rebecca's body was transmitted over from the parts that were pressed onto him. It wasn't just that. Even the faint sounds of Rebecca's breathing could be heard.

“…!”

Rebecca's body remained motionless while she remained pressed against Ash’s body.

“…Rebecca-san?”

“Be quiet.”

Rebecca used her index finger to seal Ash’s lips. A rustling sound as if a sandbag was being dragged across the ground was heard, as it cut through the silence of the forest. And then, an enormous figure passed by in the corner of his eye.

''—…Is that a two-headed snake!?''

Ash’s entire body went stiff. He didn't expect to be here at a time when there were reports of increased sightings of strange snake species in the area. He could see the two long necks of the snake heads beyond the bush. Just the thickness of those necks was comparable to the width of a tree trunk, so it was impossible to imagine just how long the full length of the snake’s body was. Perhaps detecting the scent of two people, the two-headed snake suddenly stopped, and seeing this, Ash and Rebecca froze their bodies like rocks until the snake continued moving on. After a while, the strangely shaped snake disappeared deep into the forest.

“Phew…we’re saved.”

Ash couldn't help breathing a sigh of relief, and at that time, Rebecca whispered into his ear

“I didn't know that you were so bold either…”

Rebecca's breath carried a subtle heat. Ash was initially surprised, but he immediately noticed the source of the problem.

“Wah!?”

He was forcefully pushed down by Rebecca earlier, and while they were entangled together, his right hand inadvertently grabbed her left breast. In that instant of surprise, Ash tightened the grip on his right hand, and accidentally squeezed it.

“Mmn…!”

Rebecca suddenly let out a moan. Her cheeks blushed red faintly, as if she was aroused by pleasure. She had never revealed such an expression before. Although there was a layer of clothing in between, he could still clearly feel the softness of her breasts, and it was as if his five fingers were drawn in. She should be wearing underwear right…such thoughts involuntarily surfaced within Ash’s mind. The mesmerising sensation he felt simply by touching it was like the product of a miracle.

“Uhm…I-I absolutely did not mean to do it on purpose!”

Ash frantically tried to defend himself; because his body was pressed down upon by Rebecca, he was unable to adjust the position of his hand.

“Well, I understand that you did not mean it. Rest assured, I won’t blame you.”

After Rebecca replied somewhat coyly, for some reason, she pressed down on Ash’s body even more. Gripped in the centre of Ash’s right hand, her breast expanded and as a result, compressed into a different shape.

“Rebecca-san!?”

“…I have a question that I’d like to ask someone as bold and audacious as you.”

Rebecca used a dreamy tone as she began to speak.

“W-What is it?”

“Well…after listening to my question, I hope you don’t laugh. Everyone praises me for being strong, cool, and capable. Of course, hearing such praise doesn't make me unhappy, but I am still a girl in her youth. S-So I also want…to hear people praise me for being very cute and the like. Is it so strange for me to worry about such problems?”

Although her appearance was like that of a young girl, the expression in her eyes was dead serious. Ash immediately understood that he absolutely could not use a lame excuse to answer to her question.

“Of course it’s not strange.”

While replying in that manner, Ash still felt the sensation of his hand on Rebecca's breast.

“R-Really?”

“Yes. Rebecca-san is very cute right now.”

Ash decisively said. After Rebecca gasped in surprise, her cheeks became dyed red like a rose.

“Please, could you repeat what you just said?”

Although the unexpected request made him puzzled, Ash still did as she wished and said it once again.

“Y-You’re very cute!”

Ash was embarrassed to death, and his entire body heated up as if it had caught fire. Whether it was his own body heating up, or the warmth of Rebecca's body being transmitted to him…Ash was also uncertain. In short, his entire body was incessantly getting hotter.

“…Thank you, Ash. You’re the first person who’s said such a thing to me.”

After Rebecca showed a satisfied smile, she finally lifted her upper body away from Ash. The soft touch of her body and her sweet fragrance also drifted further away. At the same time that Ash dropped his tension, he inevitably felt some regret, but he soon felt a biting cold air.

Thunk, thunk…

The sound of familiar footsteps could be heard from the depths of the forest. The sound of those footsteps were clearer and more distinctive than any of the wild animals living in the forest. It wasn't an Asia<ref>Kanji was ground dragon</ref> either. Guessing from the way that the ground was shaking, it should be a Maestro. And it wasn't just one of them. Deducing it ground the sound of their footsteps, there were two of them.

“—Hey, you’re still not at the set up point? Hurry up and finish this boring work.”

Blaring into Ash’s eardrums was undoubtedly Eco’s voice.

“Hmm, if you can’t even get work of this degree done in such a time frame, you’ll damage the reputation of the Student Council. Continue, Lancelot!”

The next to ring out was Silvia’s voice.

“Umm…this area is the responsibility of group C, so…”

The person who meekly pointed out this problem was Lucca. Based on that, the other Maestro should be Gawain.

“What did you say!?”

“How is that possible!?”

Eco and Silvia both responded at the same time. Evidently, group A’s task was not going well. Logically speaking, while having Lucca, who was more familiar than anyone with the forest in the group, it should've been rather easy; however, Eco and Silvia seemed to be constantly unhelpful. Ash didn't find it difficult to imagine that Lucca was having a hard time because she was being dragged around by those two, and he couldn't help exposing a wry smile. However, his smile was immediately frozen upon hearing the following dialogue.

“Speaking of which — I wonder what Ash’s group is up to right now?”

Eco suddenly spoke with a tone of displeasure.

“His group member is President Rebecca, so we shouldn't need to worry about them.”

Silvia answered calmly.

“Hold on, what does that ‘we’ mean? Why are you also worried?”

“I-I also like Ash! What’s wrong with being worried!?”

Silvia replied as if it were only natural. Perhaps because she thought that Ash wasn't present, she didn't try to hide her feelings. It was previously impossible for Silvia to have such an attitude.

“Eh? Silvia, you…also like Ash?”

Lucca was probably confused by Silvia’s sudden change in attitude. After all, Lucca was kept in the dark about the events which happened over the summer vacation, so it was hard to blame her for being confused.

“Anyway! If he dares to do anything strange with Rebecca, I’ll crush him in one step!”

Eco’s relentless words reverberated throughout the forest. It was almost as if she were giving a loud warning to Ash, who was somewhere within the forest. The three people in group A turned around and headed towards the eastern side.

Thunk, thunk…

The sound of Lancelot’s and Gawain’s footsteps gradually faded into the distance.

“—Fufu. Ash, congratulations on escaping unharmed.”

Rebecca revealed a playful expression as she whispered softly. Seeing her devilish smile, Ash almost felt like his soul was being sucked away. In order to calm himself down again, Ash leaned over to pick up the bag which he had dropped near his feet. He inspected the contents inside, and confirmed that the incense burner was safe. Unintentionally, Ash had discovered something even more significant.

''—Thinking back about it now, if I brought out the magic incense burners to use when the two-headed snake appeared…we wouldn't have had to hide from it in such an embarrassing way, right?''

“What is it, Ash?”

Rebecca, who was about ten steps ahead of him suddenly turned around, causing Ash to panic. The sudden doubts that he had were also tossed to the back of his mind.

“I’ll be right over!”

===Part 4===
“This is the last one.”

“Good work, Ash.”

Ash set down the third magic incense burner at the marked location on the ground. After touching the built-in Bright Dragon Crystal, the Dragon Magic activated. Aside from emitting a light, no particular change could be detected in the Bright Dragon Crystal, but with this, they wouldn't need to worry about dangerous beasts appearing in the vicinity of the route. The burner would generate a scent that was almost impossible to detect for humans, and only dangerous beasts would be able to perceive the unpleasant odour.

“Since it’s been such hard work, do you want to relax a bit?”

While saying that, Rebecca's fiery red hair floated in the wind. Through the lush forestry, it was possible to catch a faint glimpse of Rubina Lake. The sun shone on the surface of the lake, forming a glimmering reflection, which was like an enormous mirror.

“That would be nice, given that we haven’t had a rest for so long.”

Ash said so without a second thought, but the view of the autumn shoreline was beautifully picturesque, and if he rested with just him and Rebecca at such a place, it would feel as if they were on a date. Date — the instant that he realised this word, a wave of embarrassment, shyness, nervousness and other emotions flooded his mind like an avalanche, causing Ash to immediately panic.

“—W-Wah!”

In that instant, a gust of wind suddenly swept through the forest, and an object like a piece of white cloth just so happened to cover Ash’s face. It felt somewhat warm, and it had a soft texture. An odour like that of sweet perfume entered his nostrils.

“I-I can’t see in front!”

Ash hurriedly grabbed the piece of cloth from his face. And then he was astonished for a moment.

“Uwah! How did this kind of thing appear here…!”

Ash’s entire face blushed red. No matter how he looked at them, it was a pair of ladies’ underwear, and based on the quality of the silk, it was probably a fairly expensive item. It was probably the personal underwear of some aristocratic lady, right?

…Thought Ash. The point was, why did this kind of thing get blown over here by the wind?

“Don’t say anything, Ash.”

Rebecca suddenly used a low voice which carried a sense of tension to warn Ash. She slowly crept closer to the lakeside. Ash also followed Rebecca's movements, while tightly holding onto the lukewarm underwear in his hand. Rebecca paused at the junction between the forest and the lakeside, hid her body behind a bush, and then carefully observed the situation near the lake. Ash also followed Rebecca's gaze as he looked out. He could see a graceful figure bathing in the shallow area of the water.

''—Taking a bath in a place like this? This person is too lacking in wariness…''

The person bathing in the lake had dark black hair which stretched down their back, and their lower body was soaked within the lake. Because their back was facing Ash, he was unable to recognise them, but their slim figure and certain elegance gave Ash a familiar feeling. Their drooping shoulder line was gentle like a work of art.

“…Hmm?”

Ash inadvertently discovered—

That there was a ferocious looking Maestro that was leisurely lying on the grass next to the lakeside having a nap. Its enormous body was in no way inferior to that of Cú Chulainn's. After seeing the black crystal embedded on its forehead, Ash was shocked to realise that that Maestro was actually Tristan.

“No, hold on…if Tristan is in a place like this, then that means…”

Ash was momentarily stunned. Indeed, the person who was bathing in the lake rather happily was Oscar Brailsford.

''—So…too beautiful…''

When he found himself inadvertently thinking about such things, Ash was greatly surprised.

''—Hold on hold on, that guy is a male! Why the hell am I so fascinated by a man…''

Just when an internal conflict broke out within Ash’s mind, Oscar turned around, showing his side profile.

“Eh…”

In that instant, Ash was struck by immense shock, as if the centre of his chest had been hollowed out. Upon Oscar’s chest stood a pair of double peaks that a man could not possibly have. Every single movement she made caused her breasts to sway; it was a highly stimulating sight. Her enormous breasts were like an abundantly growing fruit. What was more surprising was that she had a method of disguising her voluptuously huge breasts considerably well. Her cherry-coloured tips perked slightly upwards. Oscar’s breasts were not only very large, but their shape was also very beautiful and attractive.

“W-W-What’s going on here, Rebecca-san!? If you look closely, that guy Oscar is totally a woman!”

“Haah…it looks like I can’t cover it up any more, a student aside from me has found out about it.”

Rebecca made a long sigh.

“So you mean to say that you already knew about this, Rebecca-san?”

“Based on her body shape and behaviour, I could vaguely detect an air of femininity. Even if she was able to fool the eyes of ordinary teachers and students, she wasn't able to escape my discernment.”

“So Oscar also knew that Rebecca-san had seen through her as well…?”

“That’s the reason why Oscar was forced to take the position of Vice-President, because the secret of her gender was uncovered by me. And the reason why she acted unpleasantly to me before, and insisted on me marrying her was probably because she wanted to contain an insider like me, it definitely wasn't because she fell in love with me.”

As if recalling the past, the expression in Rebecca's eyes seemed to become emotional.

“But why is Oscar a girl pretending to be male…?”

Although I haven’t heard it directly from her myself, the reason isn't difficult to imagine. To this day, the Chevron Kingdom still has not given women the right to inherit the throne. In other words, unless Oscar abandons her identity as a woman, she can never become King—”

“Who’s there!?”

At that moment, Oscar suddenly threw a dagger which had been concealed along the lakeside somewhere in advance. A flash of silver light darted over Ash’s and Rebecca's heads.

—Shack!

[[Image:SnRK V06 178.jpg|thumb]]

The sharp blade embedded itself deeply into the tree behind the two of them. Ash felt goosebumps all over his body, and he froze his body in shock. Her technique was staggering. If one hadn't diligently practiced day after day, it probably wasn't possible to obtain such an accurate throwing technique.

“Well, since she’s discovered us, I guess we can only come out and show ourselves.”

Rebecca didn't seem to feel guilty about anything at all, and she calmly stood up.

“Hmph…so it was Rebecca. If it’s just you then that’s fine…”

Oscar showed an expression of relief, but immediately after seeing Ash slowly stand up from the bushes, she was so flustered that she almost lost her sense of balance.

===Part 5===
“Uwaaahh! How can this be!”

While wearing only a towel around her body, Oscar wailed out. Although all of her important places were covered up, her slender arms were still highly sexy and seductive, which caused Ash to be at a loss as to where to look. Ever since the identity of Oscar’s gender was exposed, Ash felt drawn to the enchanting charm of every one of her actions. Ash was actually surprised that he was unable to notice it before. Even the sound of her voice now sounded a lot sharper than it was before.

“Damn it, I didn't expect that in addition to Rebecca, even Ash Blake now knows my true gender…how could I be so careless!?”

“If you’re going to blame someone, shouldn't you blame yourself for coming to a place like this to bathe?”

“I don’t have a choice! You can’t expect me to take a shower in the public bath in the boys’ dormitory!”

What she said was certainly correct, and Ash could understand her difficulties.

“So that’s why you normally take a bath here?”

“…Yes, exactly.”

“But since it’s such a delicate secret, you should be more careful, and at least order that eye patch maid to be your lookout, right? Speaking of which, where is that maid?”

“Celes went to buy ingredients for cooking…”

“You don’t seem think things through enough.”

“Eh, shut up shut up! Since you know my secret now, I’ll just have to kill to shut you up! Otherwise…”

Oscar’s eyes pierced through him, as they fixated on Ash.

“Be my bride!”

“What? You want me to be the bride? How is that possible!?”

Using some sort of strange logic, the only conclusion was to ‘marry her’? It was completely baffling. Without showing any mercy, Oscar suddenly pushed down the confused Ash.

“Kuh! What do you want!?”

Ash tried to struggle free, but Oscar’s arm strength was surprisingly strong. It was truly unbelievable that a girl’s slender arms could actually exert so much force. The current situation was almost like a strong female leopard had suddenly thrust him down. Moreover, it was possible to see the deep cleavage of her chest from that position. Her voluptuous breasts seemed as if they were ready to spill out of her towel at any moment.

“You don’t need to worry, you’ll be fine as long as you cross-dress as a girl. I promise to give you the position of second queen!”

“Stop dreaming, how could I possibly cross-dress as a woman!? And if I’m the second, then who’s the first?”

“Of course it’s Rebecca!”

“Since when did you decide that!?”

“Ah, that really is a great idea! If a male dressed as a female and a female dressed as a male get married, they’ll be able to have children normally. Like this, the problem of continuing the family line with an heir will be solved! Speaking of which, Rebecca may be outstanding, but two women can’t have children!”

“What kind of sophistry is that!?”

“Don’t worry. Even if the roles of man and woman are reversed, it’ll be fine as long as they can make the combination!”

“What is this combination!?”

“Hey…are you really trying to make me say that out loud? You pervert!”

Ash was rebuked by Oscar in return.

“Seriously, this is the so-called ‘Avalon Knight’? An indecisive man…since you’re so unwilling to cooperate, you have the freedom to choose right here whether or not you die. Stabbed to death, beaten to death, strangled to death, or being eaten by Tristan — say it, how do you want to die?”

“Of course I don’t want any of those, do you even have to ask? And who are you trying to scare with the last option!?”

“If you don’t want to die then marry me!”

“I don’t want to marry you either! Besides, Eco and I are like a single being! As long as you want Eco, you can’t take my life!”

“Hmm. As you just said, that is indeed correct. How about this then, you and I will enter a contract.”

“Contract? What are you saying…”

“Didn't you understand what I said? There’s only one type of contract between man and woman — combine with me right now.”

“Are you crazy!?”

“Y-You can have my ‘first time’! Surely there’s no disadvantage in it for you, is there?”

Oscar blushed slightly, and she suddenly averted her eyes. For some reason, Ash suddenly felt that Oscar was rather cute, and he couldn't stop his heart rate from rising. Faced with the sudden and absurd request, Ash was barely able to maintain his reason.

“Wait a minute! Rebecca-san is right next to us and watching!”

“No, it doesn't matter, it feels quite interesting anyway, so you two don’t need to pay any attention to me.”

Rebecca revealed a cheeky and playful smile, as she replied casually.

“Wait! Why are even you following along!?”

“Hey, the person you’re combining with is me, you’re not allowed to be distracted by other women! Come on, prepare yourself mentally!”

Oscar placed her hand on top of Ash’s belt. She seemed like she really was going to take Ash’s pants off.

“I’m telling you to stop it!”

Oscar was trying to take Ash’s pants off—

Ash was desperately doing all that he could to resist—

Just when the two of them were in a stalemate, the towel that was wrapped around Oscar’s naked body lightly floated down. While straddled on top of Ash, Oscar’s naked body was laid bare like a stone statue.

“Kyaaaaaaaaahhh!”

A piercing shriek rang out across the lake.

“D-Don’t look!”

The previously bold Oscar acted almost like a completely different person, she shyly crossed both of her arms over her chest to cover the important parts.

''Perhaps taking the initiative to attack a man, and having a man see her naked body unilaterally, was in a sense, two different things?''

Although such thoughts momentarily burst into Ash’s mind, his mind was currently blank, as a result of seeing Oscar’s naked body in front of his eyes.

A few minutes later. After Oscar neatly put on her uniform, and tied her hair to the back, she returned to being the usual dashing noble. However, after finding out that she was actually a girl, it was no longer possible to see her as a man. Ash actually began to doubt himself on how he was unable to see any of that from her. In addition, he clearly saw Oscar’s naked body. As soon as he recalled that scene in his mind, he found it difficult not to have a nosebleed.

“By the way, Ash Blake.”

Oscar spoke to Ash with an uneasy expression on her face.

“What is it…?”

A sense of caution was raised within Ash, and he put himself on alert.

“When I was putting on my clothes before…umm, I couldn't find my underwear no matter where I looked. With no other choice, I simply put on my pants without them.”

“So what? It’s most likely been blown away by the wind…”

Ash answered rather indifferently, but after learning the fact that ‘Oscar is currently not wearing any underwear’, his sanity was shaken.

“Excuse me for asking, but what is that thing sticking out from your pocket?”

“Eh?”

Ash hurriedly checked the pocket of his coat. There was a bit of white cloth protruding from his pocket.

“This is…!”

Ash finally remembered. After setting the last magic incense burner in the forest before, a pair of underwear was blowing in the wind. Afterwards, when he hid behind the bush with Rebecca, he thoughtlessly stuffed the underwear into his pocket as if it were his handkerchief. Oscar’s face went red as she retrieved her underwear from Ash’s pocket.

“Listen up, Ash Blake! I swear! I will definitely take you as my bride!”

She then jumped onto Tristan’s head, and flew away hurriedly.

“A Beauty in Male Attire ~A.S.B.1365.10~” is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]]
|-
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</noinclude>

User:Foggy glasses

2018-10-28T17:42:53Z

Foggy glasses: More to follow?

Current Titles Edited

* HighSchool DxD
* Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 3

2018-10-26T09:34:39Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==Chapter 3 - The return of Anya==
===Part 1===
The first day of the month of Libra.

Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy had finally entered the latter part of the teaching course. The Academy City seemed to have become deserted over the summer vacation period, but due to the students who were returning to school for the beginning of a new term, the City’s vitality was restored. In the morning, all of the students were gathered in the auditorium to attend the opening ceremony. Ash and Raymond were unenthusiastically standing at the back of the line for the first year Senior Course students. Unlike Silvia and Max who were standing upright at the very front of the line, both of these people appeared somewhat lazy. It was just that, Ash had a certain worry on his mind.

“It really hurts…”

“What’s wrong, Ash? Do you have back pain? Did you take the stairway to adulthood this summer vacation?”

While Raymond grinned, he patted Ash’s back *pan pan pan* roughly a few times. Ash seemed as if salt had been rubbed on his wound, and cried out angrily in pain.

“Don’t talk nonsense! All of my muscles are aching.”

“A couple’s bedroom activities are indeed a type of full-body exercise huh. Eco-chan didn't come along today, but is that also the reason for it?”

“Please don’t twist that topic around anymore! Also, Eco is simply resting in bed!”

“Well, you still do have the body of a boy<ref>Implied to mean virgin.</ref>, so I understand even without you saying it.”

“Since that’s the case, stop talking about nonsense!”

“Incidentally, I’m also starting this new term with the body of a boy…”

Raymond’s mood seemed like it had hit rock bottom. He was clearly a handsome and self-confident male, yet the blossoming period of his life hadn't come. Ash couldn't help but smile wryly to that.

“I feel sorry for you.”

“Well then, why are the muscles all over your body aching?”

Having no other alternative, Ash recounted the events which had transpired a few days ago. About the matter where Oscar had attacked. After he equipped the Ark that Eco had constructed, he had finally succeeded in repelling him. It was just that the Ark would put a very heavy burden on his body, and although he did not wear it for a long period of time, it had the after-effect of intense muscle soreness…and so on.

“Is that for real!? If such an amazing thing happened, why haven’t I heard any sorts of rumour about it?”

Raymond turned his head from one side to the other in puzzlement. The truth was just as he had said, it was an incredible battle fought between two sides, but he had not heard anyone speaking of such a topic.

“It’s because at that time, it was summer vacation, and the majority of students went home, and hadn't returned yet. Moreover, if news of the President and Vice-President of Ansarivan's Student Council duel leaked out, both of them would most likely be arrested by the City Council.”

After hearing Ash’s words, Raymond revealed an expression as if he had suddenly realised something.

“The conflict between President and Vice-President is a scandal unheard of. That’s why Princess Mirabel kept it quiet…”

“If she wasn't here to help with suppressing it, I think something like this would've already become a newspaper article…”

Ash sighed and hung his head down. As soon as that battle concluded, Ash and the others were taken to the Headmaster’s Office by Mirabel, and were given a serious warning. However, Mirabel let them off with just a verbal warning, so that could be considered quite fortunate for Ash and the others. That was because Ansarivan traditionally imposed heavy penalties on fights within the Academy. Although Oscar was the culprit behind the whole incident, he quickly escaped, and was thus untouched. Although the bulletin boards in the hallways had an announcement of ‘Grounded for one week as punishment’ posted on them, he was afraid that it was nothing more than a harmless announcement for them. It really was quite ridiculous.

“Wow, look at everyone—”

Raymond’s gaze suddenly turned towards the stage. The headmistress Mirabel was preparing a speech.

“Dear students. I am the headmistress, Mirabel Lautreamont.”

The Third Princess Mirabel was sent to Ansarivan after the incident in which the unconscious Eco lost control and attacked Fontaine City. Although she was a Princess, her dress style was rather simple, but regardless of whether it was her silvery white hair or cold eyes, it made her presence rather overwhelming. Even her gestures had an eye-catching charm, as if she was illuminated by moonlight.

“Now…I will hereby declare several regulations, which I hope you students will strictly abide by.”

Although her voice was not particularly loud, a clear voice reached every corner of the auditorium. Her cold statement caused the majority of students to feel nervous, and some even found it difficult to swallow as they gulped.

“First, do not interrupt my personal research. Second, do not interrupt my teatime. And next is—”

Mirabel suddenly stammered, and her cheeks became flushed. That adorable look seemed to captivate all of the students below the stage regardless of their gender. Ash and Raymond were not exceptions to that.

“T-That…since I took up the post of headmistress, l-love…”

“It’s love letter, Hime-sama.”

Eunice quietly reminded her from the side.

“Y-Yes, there have been students who have constantly sent love letters to me. But this kind of behaviour has already caused trouble for me…so please do not send love letters in the future, students.”

[[Image:SnRK V06 125.jpg|thumb]]

Mirabel quickly turned around to hide her face, stepped down from the stage, and then exited the building. Eunice was like a shadow of the Princess, and quietly followed behind her. Mirabel, who was usually cold towards others, actually didn't seem to be very good at dealing with relationships with the opposite gender. Since even the two words ‘love letter’ caused her to stutter for so long, she probably was not very used to it…Ash silently thought to himself. After all, she was the Princess of a country, so perhaps it was not strange for her to be a bit more conservative in that regard. But, for her who previously studied abroad at Espada St. Law University, she actually became so embarrassed after receiving just a few love letters. Perhaps while she was studying, she secluded herself in the laboratory, and rarely or never interacted with other people.

“Princess Mirabel…that’s too cool!”

Beside Ash, Raymond gave a thumbs up as he praised her, and suddenly gasped with excitement.

“Alright, now I also have send a love letter to Princess Mirabel!”

“Hey wait! She just said not to send them anymore, didn't you hear it!?”

Ash had a look of astonishment on his face as he said that to his friend whose habits never changed.

===Part 2===
Because a staff meeting was scheduled for the afternoon, an announcement was made that classes would be finished for the day when the noon bell rang. While Ash collected his belongings and prepared to head back to the dorm, he thought about the matter regarding Oscar Brailsford.

“Hurry up! I’m hungry and my stomach is grumbling.”

Because she was still in bed, Eco didn't make it in time for the opening ceremony, but she put on her uniform afterwards and snuck into the classroom; she was currently beside Ash, hurrying him up to return to home. It felt like it had been a long time since Eco was in her uniform.

“Come on, delicious meat is calling for me!”

“Ah…alright.”

Although he replied like that, Ash still found it difficult to disengage from the depths of his thoughts. Ever since that major incident in Fontaine City, the Imperial Army of the Zepharos Empire had quietened down, and had not made any obvious moves so far, so Ash and Eco relaxed a bit — but this time, a man named Oscar showed up to cause trouble. Although he shouldn't be as dangerous as the Imperial Army, he was nonetheless still of the Chevron aristocracy. Also, because Eco didn't possess much influence, if there were any errors, the worst situation could turn into a diplomatic issue. Anyway, Ash decided to rely on Raymond’s intelligence network for help.

“Sorry, Eco. Please wait a bit longer, I have something that I want to ask Raymond.”

Seeing that Ash pleaded with both hands together, Eco reluctantly accepted it.

“…It really can’t be helped. Hurry up and ask your friend, okay?”

“Yeah, sorry.”

Ash quickly ran over to Raymond’s seat and asked

“Hey, Raymond. I wanted to ask you about the things related to Oscar…your contacts are really vast, so you should know something about him right?”

“Ah, I’ll check.”

Raymond took out a treasured book and began to flip through it. That book was filled with records of each female student’s full profile. In fact, many male students took money out of their wallets so that they could purchase the information that was recorded in Raymond’s book. Ash suddenly realised that something wasn't quite right.

“Hold on, Raymond. Oscar is a boy, so which did you take out a tool for scouting girls?”

Raymond made a calm smile, and then pushed his fringe back.

“‘Cute’ and ‘beautiful’ are things that sometimes transcend gender. One day, you’ll come to understand this principle.”

“…I’m starting to get worried about your future.”

“There’s no need to worry, Ash. You’re not my type anyway.”

“Don’t make up things like that without hesitation then! You’re scaring me!”

“Alright, I was just joking with you — Oscar Brailsford comes from the Chevron Kingdom, and is currently studying as a second year in the Senior course. Although he’s often away from classwork and school activities, his test scores are among the best. Because he has a way to maintain his ranking within the top five, the teachers don’t seem to be able to do anything about him.”

“Seriously…!”

Because it didn't seem like Oscar was a diligent student, Ash was quite surprised by Raymond’s information.

“Also, he’s the child of the current king of Chevron and a mistress, thus, he’s not just an aristocrat, but also has the right to inherit the throne. But, because his mother is a commoner, his succession to the throne is ranked as one hundred and eighth — in other words, last.”

“Huh? Isn't Brailsford a noble family of Chevron? I thought his mother was born from that family.”

“I’m not clear on the details, but Oscar’s mother passed away when he was young, and so it seems like the Brailsford family took Oscar in as an adopted son.”

“I see. Seeing as how he was so arrogant, I couldn't tell that he had gone through so many difficulties in the past…”

Raymond then revealed a few more pieces of information to Ash. They were things such as; although he completely qualified as a candidate, he declined to participate in the Allonnes Selective Training Camp. Also, he couldn't live in the student dormitory unless it was a private room…and various other things. After Raymond closed his book, he raised his head.

“The bottom line is that the Hime-sama probably knows more about the Vice-President than me. After all, the Chevron Kingdom’s family and the Lautreamont Knight Country’s family have quite a deep relationship with each other, so perhaps she may have heard of some information that only royalty would know of.”

“I see, that does make sense.”

Ash calmly cast his gaze towards the front row of the classroom. Silvia was packing her things away as she prepared to go home. All of the injuries that she suffered in the fight against Oscar and Tristan seemed to have healed. It was probably the result of healing based Dragon Magic. Although it was a good opportunity to call out to her right now, Ash was hesitant. The scene of their kiss in the novitiate that night flashed across his mind.

“What is it, Ash? Your face is quite red.”

Raymond curiously asked.

“N-Nothing, it’s nothing, really! You’re right, Hime-sama should probably know something…”

“No! I forbid you from asking Silvia for help!”

Eco suddenly interjected. Unknown to him, she had slipped behind Ash’s back as she may have become tired of waiting.

“Huh? Haven’t you been getting along pretty well with Hime-sama lately, Eco-chan?”

Raymond didn't know what had happened during the summer vacation, and so he was looking at Eco in surprise.

“A-Anyway, if I say no, then it’s a no! You can’t ask Silvia—”

Raymond ignored the angry Eco, and quickly shouted out

“Hey~ Hime-sama! Ash said that there’s something he wants to ask you!”

“Wait…you…!”

Ash anxiously tried to stop him, but it was too late. The instant that Raymond said Ash’s name, Silvia’s shoulders momentarily trembled in an exaggerated motion.

“Hey hey, what’s wrong with you? You’re so familiar with each other, so what’s there to be embarrassed about right now?”

Raymond didn't seem to have the intention of pulling a prank on Ash, as he simply had a puzzled expression on his face. Even if it was just an action with good intentions, it felt like something unnecessarily nosy to Ash.

“T-That thing…it’s because of that time, which is why it’s embarrassing…”

When Ash said so evasively, Raymond’s eyes instantly sharpened.

“You bastard…something good must have happened between you and Hime-sama! So that’s why Eco-chan is avoiding contact with Hime-sama?”

“N-No, the situation isn't what you think it is…!”

“Y-Ye-Yeah! You’re misunderstanding!”

Having the truth seen through by Raymond, both Ash and Eco quickly denied it, as they thought about ways to get out of the current situation.

“Hmm, very suspicious…”

When Raymond narrowed his eyes in suspicion, Silvia hesitantly walked over, after having packed her things away.

“Umm…what did you want to ask me?”

“Ah, yes…”

Ash was wrought with nervousness, and could only murmur in response.

“If you don’t mind…then why don’t we have lunch together? <La Tene> seems to have just finished its renovations and reopened. I-It’s a bit embarrassing for me to go there by myself…”

Silvia’s delicate and adorable attitude caused Raymond to affix his eyes straight onto her. Furthermore, Silvia also invited Ash to lunch of her own accord. Ash was probably even more surprised than Raymond about this.

“Umm…are you really Hime-sama? You aren't actually Cosette-san in disguise are you?”

Hearing Raymond ask such a silly question, Silvia’s eyebrows curled in anger.

“H-How could I possibly be Cosette in disguise!? That’s right, I’m inviting Ash! Do you have a problem!?”

“No, no, I don’t! Uh, I just remembered that I have something urgent to do…see you tomorrow, Ash!”

Raymond gave Ash an indignant look, and then rushed out of the classroom. He would probably prepare a number of irritating questions to pester Ash with tomorrow.

“T-Then, are you willing to accept my invitation? Or reject it?”

Silvia continued to press Ash.

“Wait a minute, what are you trying to do!?”

Eco jumped out as if to protect Ash. And without saying a thing, she grabbed onto Ash’s right hand tightly.

“…Uh!”

Eco had abnormal strength which was on par with that of a dragon despite her body, and for a moment, Ash thought that his wrist would be dislocated. Nevertheless, he clenched his teeth, and swallowed the pain.

“Why don’t the three of us go together? Hmm, let’s do that!”

A sense of rivalry seemed to have been ignited within Silvia, and she grabbed onto Ash’s left arm. Then, like a pair of lovers, she entwined her arm around Ash’s arm.

“H-Hime-sama?”

If it was the Silvia of the past, she never would have been able to take such bold actions. Perhaps she had loosened up a bit as a result of her confession and kiss.

“Hey…what are you doing!?”

Eco protested, but Silvia didn't heed her at all, and simply urged Ash to hurry up and leave. Eco was on his right side. Moreover, Silvia was on his left side. The students who had remained in the classroom watched in amazement as Ash left, with the fortune of having a girl in both arms.

===Part 3===
In order to celebrate their reopening after taking advantage of the vacation period to complete their interior renovation, <La Tene> had all of their waitresses wear a variety of fancy outfits to serve their guests. There were some like cats or dogs, while there were also those like female knights and young dragons; they had all kinds of strange outfits on. The store’s business was booming, and there were only a few seats remaining. If they acted even a bit slower, they might have had to wait in line.

“It’s my treat today.”

Ash sat down at the empty table, and picked up a menu as if asserting that he was going to be paying the bill for this meal. In fact, after being appointed as an Ark Dragonar, Ash’s wallet had received a monthly salary. Even under the assumption that he came to <La Tene> as a customer every day, it would not result in a great blow to his wallet. Compared to his days as a poor student, his current lifestyle was like a dream.

“Oh. You actually volunteered to treat, it looks like you’re slowly becoming financially capable.”

The generous Ash had become a reliable man in Eco’s mind. Strictly speaking though, Ash had shouldered the burden of Eco’s meal costs ever since she was born.

“Well, you just rely on a man to earn money and support you, so it seems like you don’t amount to much yourself. As a woman of the Knight Country, you should learn how to live independently, instead of being like a Chevron woman who only knows how to flatter men.”

Seeing Silvia speak as though she were attacking Eco, cold sweat dripped down Ash’s body. Sure enough, Eco began to counterattack against Silvia.

“What did you say? How about you treat for this meal, Silvia! You were the one who invited us to eat here anyway!”

“Eco! How can you speak like that to Hime-sama?”

“What, are you helping Silvia’s side now!?”

Eco’s face dyed red in anger.

“I-I…”

“Fighting over such a thing is too shameful, you two. We just came to a students’ restaurant to have a meal, so what is there to argue about? Eco is right, I was the person who invited you to this restaurant. That’s why I’ll be paying for this meal.”

Silvia’s generous statement caused Ash to feel admiration for her, but he immediately realised that something was off.

“Hold on, I’ve never seen you pay for anything before, Hime-sama.”

“Hmm? What are you trying to say, Ash?”

“Well, Hime-sama. Pardon my rudeness for asking this…do you have any cash on you?”

“Cash? I don’t understand what you’re talking about.”

Silvia furrowed her eyebrows in surprise.

“You didn't bring your wallet, right?”

“Why does the princess of a country need to carry a wallet? I normally give my wallet to Cosette to manage.”

“Where is Cosette-san right now?”

“Because the essential oils used for bathing have run out, I remember her saying that she was going to buy some new ones. However, I just need to give the name of the Lautreamont Royal Family, and the restaurant should allow us to eat as much as we like on credit.”

“No no, that might be all right in a three-star restaurant in the capital, but this is the Academy City, you know? Hime-sama, you also shouldn't give out the name of the Royal Family in a public restaurant as well, right?”

“Uh…that is true.”

“Today will still be my treat, since I have a lot of questions to ask you anyway, Hime-sama.”

“I’m sorry, Ash…”

“Hmph, it’s my win this time!”

Seeing Silvia become disappointed and downcast, Eco seemed proud and overjoyed.

“Hey hey, I’m the one treating so don’t get so cocky, alright?”

Just when Ash said that to Eco with an amazed expression—

“W-Welcome back nyan…master!”

A waitress wearing a maid outfit, with cat ears on her head, and a cat’s tail attached behind her suddenly ran out, giving Ash a surprise. What was even more surprising was that this waitress’ face was very familiar.

“You’re Anya!”

Ash stared blankly at the waitress’ face. Eco and Silvia also followed suit, and were speechless. Tan skin, dark black hair, and piercing eyes. She was small, but she had a beautiful figure like a female leopard — it was most definitely the Anya who was previously the enemy of Ash and the others.

“Wanya! It’s Ash Blake and the young dragon Eco! A-And Princess Silvia as well nya!”

“Why is your speech so strange?”

After Ash calmly pointed out her speech issue, Anya’s entire body become so red that it seemed like she was puffing out steam.

“T-This is because of the manager’s orders, I can’t just…”

Anya’s gaze wandered as she spoke vaguely and inarticulately. Ash couldn't stop himself from being mesmerised by the attraction of her exotic beauty. With the cat ears and tail as accessories, it made Anya look even more adorable. She was like a black cat that people only wanted to hug and pamper. Along with the frilly maid outfit, it was surprisingly well suited for her. The length of the skirt was above her knees, and her slightly concealed thighs would make one nervous.

[[Image:SnRK V06 138.jpg|thumb]]

“Guha!”

While Ash was looking on in wonder, he was suddenly struck in the abdomen by an elbow on both sides.

“What…what the heck! Eco! And even you’re being so rough too, Hime-sama!”

As soon as Ash opened his mouth to complain, Eco and Silvia gave him a foul look as they both stiffened and immediately replied

“Hmph! It’s your fault for staring open-mouthed at girls!”

“Indeed, I can’t help approving of what Eco has to say this time.”

“I can’t stand you guys, you’re both getting so worked up about such a perplexing thing.”

Ash lamented as he clutched his stomach.

“Anyway, you’re called Anya, right? Why are you in Ansarivan!?”

This time, Eco directed her anger towards Anya as she spoke.

“Shouldn't you have been left in Fontaine City for interrogation? Surely, you don’t plan on engaging in more plots, do you?”

Silvia aggressively followed like Eco, and cast a cold gaze towards Anya.

“……”

With an enemy on each side, Anya appeared to shrink back timidly.

“Ara<ref>Ara: ~ Oh my.</ref>, Anya-chan, could these be your friends?”

Then, the manager of <La Tene> came over from behind Anya. Although the manager was rather tall, the perfect proportions of her body were comparable to a model, but she always had a warm and friendly smile on her face, so it didn't give people the feeling that she was difficult to approach. At around twenty years of age, she was greatly admired by the students of the Unios course, which even gave her the nickname of ‘okaa-san’<ref>Okaa-san: Mother.</ref>, as a so-called popular manager.

“M-Manager, there are people who know my true identity…”

Anya was on the verge of tears as she turned around and looked at the manager.

“Well well, aren't you Princess Silvia? For the Princess to visit the lowly students’ restaurant <La Tene>, it’s my honour.”

The manager noticed that the customer sitting down was Silvia, and immediately bowed with respect. Then, she began to explain about Anya’s situation to the three people.

“—That’s basically how it is, so this girl is no longer the enemy of the Knight Country.”

In short, when she was being interrogated by Veronica, because of her cooperative attitude, she obtained a pardon afterwards, and it was arranged for her to live in Ansarivan. At that time, the one who volunteered to be Anya’s observer and guardian was the manager of <La Tene>.

“Umm…I’m really sorry for troubling everyone. Although I know it’s not something that can be forgiven with just an apology…”

Anya sombrely bowed as she apologised to Eco.

“What’s with that tone?”

Eco angrily puffed out her cheeks. Before, thanks to Anya’s doing, Eco had suffered a lot in Fontaine City, so it was hard to blame her for not forgiving her so easily. It was just that, seeing Anya maintain her deeply bowed posture without moving, the steel-hearted Eco seemed to relent.

“F-Fine…if you let me have some delicious meat, I’ll consider forgiving you.”

Hearing Eco’s words, Anya’s face suddenly brightened up a bit.

“Really!? The chef’s recommendation for today is [Grilled Lamb]!”

“…Gyruru.”

“Look at you, you’re even drooling!”

Ash quickly picked up a napkin and helped Eco to wipe the edge of her mouth, then looked at the interaction between Eco and Anya, and suddenly had mixed feelings.

“Thinking back about it now…Eco’s birth actually has an inseparable relationship with Anya. Didn't you attack me in the forest at first?”

“I-I’m really very sorry…”

Anya’s shrunk back more and more.

“You don’t need to be afraid, I’m not angry anymore. On the contrary, if not for you, Eco might not have awakened yet.”

After Ash said that with a wry smile, Eco cried out.

“What! Are you mistaken!? If your life wasn't about to end, I could've slept for another three good years!”

“Just how much do you like sleeping!? If I really let you sleep for that long, I would have graduated!”

Seeing Ash and Eco both arguing, Anya couldn't help giggling slightly.

“Hmm? What’s so funny?”

After Ash asked out of puzzlement, Anya gave a wry smile as she replied

“I just think that a Dragonar and their Pal really have a good relationship.”

“I-I don’t have a particularly good relationship with him!”

Eco crossed her arms, and turned her face away dismissively. Ash inadvertently noticed that her cheeks were slightly flushed, which in turn caused him to feel embarrassed.

“Yes yes! Anya has recently been talking all the time about Ash-san. She looks as though she’s anxious to start—”

“M-Manager! What are you saying, really!”

Anya’s ears reddened and she pushed the manager from behind as she left. Not long after, she was seen pushing the restaurant manager outside, and then dove into the kitchen.

“Wait a minute! How are we going to order? What about that tasty [Grilled Lamb]!”

Eco shouted out loudly, but Anya refused to come out no matter what.

“It’s rather strange, what could've happened to Anya?”

Ash honestly wondered about that, and Silvia, who had been silent until now, finally broke the silence.

“It’s like you’re completely off guard. Could it be that even Anya…”

Silvia muttered incomprehensibly, but it was nearly impossible to hear the latter half of what she was saying. Thus, Ash put on a serious expression, and looked at Silvia.

“Hime-sama, why are you angry?”

“You should ask yourself that question!”

===Part 4===
“Wow…it looks delicious!”

Seeing the dishes arrive at the table one by one, Eco cheered in excitement. Facing the large and steaming hot leg of grilled lamb, it felt like it would be more than enough to eat even if it was split between five people. The surface was grilled to a golden-brown colour and was crispy, which simply stirred up one’s appetite.

“Hmm, it’s certainly not bad…”

Even Silvia, who had a displeased expression before, seemed to have her appetite aroused. Aside from lamb, the dishes on the table also consisted of Allonnes mushroom pasta, a salad with autumn’s seasonal vegetables, pumpkin soup, as well as stone oven baked bread.

“This is mine!”

Right after offering a prayer to Saint Rosa Maria, Eco couldn't wait any longer and prepared to bite into the lamb.

“Eco! The meat needs to be cut up and divided to everyone first!”

Ash quickly stopped Eco, as he picked up a knife to slice up the meat. The moment that the knife cut into the meat, a lot of the juices ‘pochi’ spilled out. After he placed the sliced up meat on a small plate for Eco, she grinned as she tossed the meat into her mouth with large bites.

“Hafuhafu…mmm~ that was delicious!”

Recently, Eco had been becoming more and more feminine, but only when it came to food, she would return to childlike appearance. At that time, Ash felt that there was a strong gaze looking at them from the opposite side, and couldn't help looking up in surprise. It was actually Silvia, who was staring at his hands.

“Is there a problem…Hime-sama?”

Hearing Ash talk to her, Silvia returned to her senses, and exaggeratedly shook her head.

“N-No! There’s nothing!”

Although Silvia said that there weren't any issues, she was holding onto a small plate in her hand. Looking at her awkward demeanour, Ash understood what it was. He couldn't help exposing a wry smile. Silvia probably never had the experience of cutting a large platter of meat by herself. Cosette probably did this kind of task for her all the time. However, Silvia had a lot of pride. She almost definitely thought it too humiliating to ask Ash to help her carve the meat, and was wondering in her mind about what to do.

“Here, give me your plate.”

After Ash took Silvia’s plate, he picked up the knife and cut the meat into slices. The meat juices ‘pochi’ gushed out again. Ash cut the slices of meat into sizes which were easy to eat, and then placed them onto the plate.

“Thank you…”

Silvia took the plate, and then used a voice as quiet as a mosquito to thank him. This time, that exchange caused a killing intent to stab into his cheek, and Ash involuntarily stiffened up.

“Eco? What is it?”

Turning to look beside him, Eco held out her small plate with a serious expression. Having a delicious meat dish to enjoy, Eco was originally overjoyed, but she somehow now had a straight-faced expression.

“A-noth-er-serving!”

“Ah…okay, there is a lot anyway.”

Cold sweat continued to roll down Ash’s body. Eco was clearly in a fit of anger. It must have been because she saw Ash and Silvia’s interaction that caused her to become angry like this. Ash cut slightly thicker pieces of meat and placed them onto Eco’s plate.

“Here, Eco—”

In an instant, a hand suddenly extended out from his side and snatched the plate away, which greatly surprised Ash.

“Oh…I thought that a students’ restaurant wouldn't be able to produce any decent dishes, but the taste of this dish is actually worthy of a three-star rating.”

Ash hastily glanced back, and saw Oscar Brailsford standing behind, with an indifferent look on his face. He held a piece of meat up with his fingers, and then gobbled it with delight; those actions were a complete contrast to his elegant appearance.

“That’s my meat! How dare you snatch it away!”

In anger, Eco stood up and threw a punch, but Oscar easily avoided the attack. As if he had come late to a gathering of friends, he casually sat down in the vacant seat as if nothing had happened.

“Hey! Don’t just sit there so naturally!”

Oscar handsomely brushed his fringe up, and ignored Eco’s angry roars.

“What’s wrong, we’re all members of the Student Council.”

“You have the nerve to say that? And that’s not even counting the fact that you’re normally absent.”

Ash grumbled that with an expression of surprise, but Oscar simply returned a graceful, cheeky smile.

“Oscar, what are you planning? You did such an inexcusable thing to us before, do you really have the right to appear before us?”

Silvia glared sharply at Oscar. Within those icy blue eyes of hers, were scorching red flames. Having recently been defeated by the pair which consisted of Oscar and Tristan, she was presumably not too happy about it.

“Fuu. I remember you looked quite pathetic when I dealt with you, Princess Silvia-dono.”

“What…!”

Silvia’s face was dyed red with anger, and her lips were trembling. But, the next thing that she was going to say was stuck in her throat and wouldn't come out. Despite cooperating with Lucca, Silvia was still defeated pathetically. That’s why she clearly understood that no matter what she said right now, it would just be the cries of a sore loser.

“Anyway, as a dragon, Eco likes to eat meat the most, right?”

Oscar suddenly asked a question which seemed to have no correlation to the previous topic.

“Yeah. So what?”

After Eco snappily replied, Oscar smiled.

“If you consent to be my partner, I can treat you to the highest grade of Chevron beef every day. Whether it’s grilled steak, sautéed beef, or roast beef, you can eat whatever you want to eat. By the way, do you know the part that people call ‘toro’<ref>Toro is the fattiest part of meat, which is usually also the softest and juiciest.</ref>? Eating beef toro raw is one of the most delicious things in this world.”

“Eating Chevron beef toro raw…?”

Eco quickly revealed a greedy expression as she drooled.

“Hey hey! You’re being kidnapped by food!”

Ash quickly doused Eco’s desires, and then glared at Oscar.

“Stop going overboard. Eco is my Pal.”

Ash boldly declared his full authority as the master, but it didn't seem to have any effect. Oscar sighed, and then exaggeratedly shrugged his shoulders.

“You really are carefree. Did you know that the Chevron Kingdom has already been informed of Eco’s true identity?”

“So what if they know? The Kingdom and Knight Country are allies.”

Even though Ash was annoyed by studying and exams, he still knew the common knowledge of a citizen of the Knight Country.

“Also, these two countries don’t just have any ordinary bilateral relationship. Like a knight pledging allegiance to their monarch, the Knight Country has always done things for the sake of the Kingdom. Even if both countries share their intelligence on Eco, it’s nothing to make a fuss over.”

“What naive thinking…what [Avalon Knight], this is a joke. Do you really think that the Kingdom and Knight Country acting like lovers in a drama will continue to play out forever?”

Oscar suddenly shifted to a serious expression, which caused Ash to shudder.

“Oscar-dono! Be mindful of what you’re saying!”

Silvia couldn't conceal the anxiousness in her mind, and glared at the side of Oscar’s face.

“Thinking about it realistically, allowing us of the Chevron Kingdom to exclusively manage the dragons would be more convenient and time conserving, isn't this the undeniable truth? Yet, the Kingdom entrusted the Knight Country with the management of the dragons. It’s just that, the Kingdom believed that regardless of the era, the Knight King would whole-heartedly pledge his absolute loyalty to the Chevron King — this model of thinking may have been established five hundred years ago, but the problem is…”

“Hey hey…is it really possible for these two countries to break off their diplomatic relationship?”

Ash nervously gulped, as he awaited Oscar’s reply.

“Eco’s awakening in Fontaine City amidst the disorder has shocked the world leaders — that incident will definitely invoke a gradual change in the situation of the world. Were it not for that riot, the Chevron Kingdom also wouldn't suspect the Knight Country’s government of disloyalty for no reason.”

“Uh…!”

“Moreover, the current Chevron King, Zacharias III is rather old, and the old days of naming the next monarch are long gone. Not only that, he complains that he’s gotten weak in his old age, and is planning to seek out some secret medicine which will grant him eternal youth and immortality. With his personality declining to this point, this so-called King is nothing more than an ugly old man. Regardless of the era, the ones who lead a country to ruin are always old fools who only fill their minds with their own selfish desires.”

“Hey hey, what’s this about eternal youth and immortality…did the King really say such nonsense?”

Ash timidly asked. Could it be that the Chevron King really wanted to imitate the specialists of witchcraft from folk stories?

“Of course he’s serious about that, it’s because the Princess of Avalon’s Dragons’ Emperor has been born into this world.”

Oscar nonchalantly replied.

“Hold on…how is this related to Eco?”

“Simply by drinking the blood of Avalon’s Holy Dragons’ Emperor, you’ll be able to obtain eternal youth and immortality — this is a long-standing legend.”

“What did you say…”

Eco wrapped her arms around herself and shuddered in fear.

“That’s ridiculous! I've never heard of such a legend!”

“I heard that you went to visit the Mother Dragon during the break, didn't she tell you anything?”

Although Ash felt surprised by the intelligence network that was easily available to Oscar, he gave a serious reply to his question.

“That’s right, I didn't hear her speak about such a thing at all.”

Oscar nodded as if he had understood the main point.

“Is that so? The Mother Dragon didn't say anything at all — that verifies one thing, and it’s that eternal youth and immortality is an impossible existence. Don’t you think so?”

“What you’re saying does make sense.”

Ash expressed his agreement towards Oscar’s words for the first time. If there really was a secret existence such as obtaining eternal youth and immortality through drinking the blood of Avalon, the Mother Dragon definitely would've warned Ash about it.

“The legend of eternal youth and immortality which has spread across the continent probably became a superstition around the time that Avalon’s Holy Dragons’ Emperor Family was established. When Zacharias III was young, he probably also dismissed legends such as this. But, the process of aging can change a person. Sooner or later, Zacharias will die, hence he is seeking out Eco for the medicine.”

“You came to tell us this information, so what are you planning to do?”

“My aim is of course to become the next King of Chevron. I swear that after I succeed the Chevron King, not only will I protect the personal safety of Eco, I will also maintain the alliance with the Knight Country.”

“Are you serious?”

“Of course. However, in the case that the successor to the throne is another one of the candidates — like that Uriel who has an irritable temper, my guess is that the Knight Country probably won’t be able to escape from the destiny of being annexed by the Kingdom. Uriel holds the ambition to dominate the entire continent, and in order to accomplish that goal, he’ll definitely want to abolish the old system so that he can manage the dragon race himself. After everything is ready, he’s bound to declare war against the mechanised forces of the Zepharos Empire. That situation is bound to set off a world war—”

After saying up to there, Oscar suddenly stopped speaking, and unceremoniously grabbed the glass near his hand and drank it in one gulp. Silvia’s facial expression conveyed shock. That was because the cup that Oscar snatched away was the one that she had just drank from. With her straitlaced personality, Silvia may have gotten the thought of it being an indirect kiss when watching that.

“Umm…would you like to order?”

At that time, Anya appeared with a timid voice. Seeing that she had a pen and paper in her hand, it was probably because she noticed that Oscar had just taken a seat in the restaurant, which is why she came to ask whether they wanted to order. Ash also noticed the reason that Oscar suddenly became silent, and was afraid that he might have some sort of close connection to the waitress. It showed that while he appeared frivolous on the surface, he actually had a cautious and serious personality. Oscar glanced at Anya, and then revealed an arrogant smile.

“I see, so you’re Anya — no, I should call you Shamara Kiltzkaya, right? The rumours say that you were pardoned because you made a plea bargain, it seems it really is true.”

“What…how do you know that!?”

Anya raised the corner of her eyebrows, and immediately put on a defensive stance. Even though she was currently wearing a maid outfit with cat ears and a tail, she was previously a spy for the Imperial Army, and the chief of the Tantalos Tribe; the killing intent that she was giving off was definitely not a bluff. The sharp end of her pen was pointed squarely at Oscar’s eye.

“Hey, Anya…”

Ash was worried. It was unusual that Veronica would spare her, so if she used force against a student, she would be recaptured and sent to serve time in prison.

“Fuu, that’s right. Those are the eyes. No matter how hard you work to make yourself look like an ordinary citizen, you were born as a warrior after all. You carry the bloodline of the fighting Tantalos Tribe, so you’re not allowed to lead a serene life—”

Oscar said that while putting on airs, as he slowly stood up from his seat. His eyes pierced into Anya’s with a gaze that wasn't any less sharp than Anya’s.

“It looks like I need to give a good lesson to this neko-chan<ref>Neko-chan: Little kitten.</ref> with a bad upbringing.”

“You can’t summon your Pal in here, so do you really think that you can beat me in a close-quarters fight?”

At that time, Anya revealed the expression of a warrior.

“Stop! There is no reason for you two to fight!”

Ash desperately tried to stop them, but the two people emitting a killing intent were evidently not going to allow a third person to get in the way of the fight between them. As the place was filled with a tense atmosphere, the sharp killing intent emitted by those two people gave everyone the illusion that they would be slashed if they made any careless movements. This fight had also unwittingly attracted the attention of the seated students all around them, and everyone watched on in amazement of the scene.

“—Hey Oscar! What kind of trouble are you giving me again, you bastard!?”

At that moment, an aggressive voice was heard, and a figure dressed in black rushed in.

“Gofu!”

It also came in with a flying kick. Oscar was blown away by a single kick.

“T-Towards your master, is that the…attitude that you should have!?”

The shameful appearance of Oscar sprawled on the floor and writhing in pain was an affront to the handsome face of a noble that he had.

“…Geez, Don’t increase my workload any more, you filthy insect!”

With a silver ponytail hanging behind her head, it was a girl wearing a black eyepatch — after Celes came to the side of her useless master, she roughly picked him up by his collar. In front of the crowd of stunned onlookers, Celes didn't say anything and dragged her master out of the restaurant.

“The New Term ~A.S.B.1365.10~” is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 2

2018-10-23T10:41:22Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==Chapter 2 - The Baron of Sonic==
===Part 1===
—Don, Don…Don!

The next morning, Ash was awoken by the sound of a knocking sound on the window, and hurriedly jumped up.

“Su…su…”

Eco, who was beside Ash didn't seem to be affected by the noise, and continued to sleep soundly. Eco, who had always slept naked in the past, recently gained the habit of wearing pyjamas and nightgowns when she slept now. Ever since Ash was kissed by Silvia, Eco’s mood had become worse, but she still reluctantly allowed Ash to sleep on the bed. Although before sleep, she would unhappily turn her back, and turn her face away from Ash. But once she had gone to sleep, she would expose an innocent sleeping face. However, now wasn't the time to admire Eco’s sleeping face. Ash climbed up from the bed, and ran over to pull open the curtains.

“Whoa! It’s this situation again…!”

All he could see outside the window were the bodies of two dragons pushing back and forth against each other. One of them was a beautiful Maestro with silver fur. The other had a long twisted body like a snake, a water dragon which was clinging to the wall. The rider of the former was Lucca, and the latter was Jessica. The sound of the quarrel between those two drifted into the room through the window.

“Mou! Lucca-san. Can you please not get in my way?”

“…I arrived earlier than Jessica. And Gawain would also like to see Ash.”

It looked like the two of them had already returned to Ansarivan. Several large pieces of luggage were attached to Jessica’s saddle, and Lucca was carrying a massive backpack. It seemed the two of them had just happened to meet each other in front of the boys’ dormitory. In any case, they couldn't be allowed to continue quarreling. The nightmare which occurred on the first day of summer vacation vividly resurfaced within Ash’s mind. Because both of them were having an argument outside the window, the other female students nearby were also infected by their excitement, and an entire section of the wall was destroyed in the end. Ash opened the window with a ‘pop’ sound.

“Hey…please you guys, can you come in through the window as per the rules?”

As if to enlighten the mischievous students, he said that with good intentions.

“No way! Come, Ash-sama! Hurry up and accept the souvenirs which are filled with my sincerity!”

“I also…brought back a lot a lot of specialties from the village of Eckbald…”

All at once, a vast number of items were tossed into the room from the window, which caused Ash to gape in surprise.

“Wait — uwah!”

In the blink of an eye, Ash was drowned in a small mountain of souvenirs. The things that Jessica threw into the room were mostly fruits which Ash had never seen before, and most of them were the specialties of her hometown. On the other hand, everything that Lucca gave him were herbs or fragrant woods. A unique fragrance immediately spread within the room.

“I’m very grateful for your consideration, but shouldn't you think more about having a limit to that?”

Ash awkwardly climbed out from the small mountain of gifts, and then begged the two people with pleading eyes.

“No, I haven’t even finished yet! The most valuable souvenir is my body!”

Jessica got up from her saddle, and then jumped into the room.

“Ah, how cunning…me too…!”

Lucca also got up and jumped in.

“Hey, you two…!”

Jessica and Lucca grabbed onto Ash’s body on both sides. Being stimulated by the body heat of those two girls, Ash’s heart couldn't stop racing — the next instant, they all fell onto the floor. Despite the sudden situation in which his eyes were closed, he was pressed down under Jessica and Lucca, and Ash seemed to be in an enjoyable position. Soft and abundant breasts enveloped his right hand, while his left hand felt a stimulating sensation which was like that of a soft, fluffy animal.

“I really wanted to see you! I've never had a break which felt this long!”

“I was also the same…I really wanted to see you. If I can…I hope to be able to introduce Ash to the chief…”

Both Jessica and Lucca displayed truly happy expressions. The two people really had sincere feelings, and Ash felt happy about that. Nevertheless, there was only one troublesome problem in here.

“Hey…you guys, if you continue with no sense of restraint…”

At some time unknown to them, Eco had awoken and stood aggressively on top of the bed, and it felt as though she was ready to make loud ‘grgrgrgr’ noises at any time as her body exuded an atmosphere of anger.

“I’ll crush all of you together!”

===Part 2===
—At one in the afternoon.

With President Rebecca as the leader, Disciplinary Affairs member Silvia, Accountant Max, Secretary Lucca, Ash and Jessica of General Affairs, and lastly the Mascot Eco – everyone sat around the table in the Student Council Office. Perhaps because she was still thinking about her confession and kiss, Silvia was sitting in the seat furthest from Ash. The two people had obviously not seen each other for a while, yet they didn't even exchange a single word.

''—The atmosphere always feels so awkward…''

In Ash’s position, he certainly wanted to return to their relationship before, where they could naturally converse with each other. However, as soon as he thought about Silvia’s confession and kiss, it was difficult for him not to become nervous. It was presumably the same for Silvia. Ash suddenly recalled something that Cosette had said. She had come over specifically to tell Ash yesterday, hoping that he would act as natural as in the past with the Hime-sama<ref>Hime-sama: Princess-sama.</ref>, and also reminded him that he didn't need to respond to the confession too quickly. Incidentally, Cosette, who normally accompanied Silvia by her side was not present today. It seems as though she went shopping.

''—Since Cosette-san isn't here…yes, I should calm down first, and then I’ll try talking naturally to Hime-sama again?''

However, as if to completely interrupt his thoughts—

“…I will never forgive that fox.”

With a frightening tone, Eco muttered that while she sat beside Ash. It wasn't just him who was focusing his attention on Silvia. Eco, who was secretly glancing at Silvia, was like a threatened beast with all of its fur on end.

''—No. If I just try to talk to the Hime-sama, I’ll just stimulate Eco’s anger…''

Just when Ash’s mind was in distress—

“—Then, we’ll begin the meeting now.”

With Rebecca's declaration, the meeting officially began. The topic was called ‘The Libra Dragon Riding Festival’ of ‘Ansarivan's Five Hundred Years Festival’.

“……”

Perhaps because she was deterred by Rebecca's magnificence, Eco relaxed her face that was filled with anger, and Ash also tentatively sighed in relief. When the three o’clock bell rang, an unexpected knock on the door of the room momentarily interrupted their meeting.

“—Excuse me. Rebecca-sama, I have brought that thing here.”

Wearing a maid outfit specifically for those in service of the Royal Palace, a girl walked into the office. Ash was familiar with this innocent beauty. She was Eunice, who served the new Headmistress, Mirabel Lautreamont. What was the thing that she was referring to? …Just when Ash felt curious about it, Eunice walked over to Rebecca's side, and then gave her a seemingly antique, small box. The size of the box was such that it could be held in the palm of Eunice’s hand, and the outer appearance was like that of a jewellery box. Upon receiving the box, Rebecca opened the box’s lid with a serious expression. Placed within the box, was a piece of metal — it was actually a golden key. Also, that wasn't just any ordinary key, on its head was a delicate ornament. In particular, attached on top of it was a bright red Dragon Crystal, which gave off the feeling that it was from a great existence. After Rebecca confirmed the key, she replied to thank Eunice

“Thank you, Eunice-san. Please give my regards to Mirabel-dono for me.”

“Yes.”

After respectfully bowing, Eunice immediately left the office. Rebecca watched Eunice’s back as she left, and then looked around at everyone who was present.

“I have some good news to tell everyone. We Student Council members have always depended on others, and all our activities are in this room…but the number of members we have this year has increased, and it can’t be denied that this space feels a bit narrow.”

Rebecca was right, the Student Council Office had become more and more crowded every day. With more people, it became livelier, and the number of miscellaneous items naturally increased. Although Max, who was a very tidy personality worked very hard to maintain a clean environment, he was unable to keep up recently, and it slowly became untidy.

“So I've discussed it with Princess Mirabel, hoping that she could help us prepare a new activity location.”

“So that key is…!”

Jessica’s eyes lit up, and she stood up from her seat.

“That’s correct, today’s meeting is now finished. I’ll take you to the new location!”

===Part 3===

Rebecca led a group of people towards a certain building within the school grounds. It was a two story building built with bricks. The style of the building was elegant and refined, reflecting a strong modern architectural style. Within the Academy which was lined with old buildings, this was a unique exception. Moreover, if one had to describe this building with a single phrase — it was in ruins. Nailed across the main entrance were several wooden planks, which strictly prohibited access. With a serious look, Rebecca said

“This mansion was originally used by the Student Council, and was built around ten years ago.”

“Eh? Then why has it been blocked up and only been reopened now?”

Ash felt that it was rather strange, and looked at Rebecca's face from the side. Since such a great office space was built ten years ago, why did the Student Council have to borrow a small room of the school as a makeshift venue?

“The name of this building is called Julius Hall.”

Hearing Rebecca's serious reply, Ash felt uneasy for a moment.

“What, that can’t be…!”

“Correct, during the time that Prince Julius Lautreamont was the Student Council President, he negotiated with the School Board, and asked them to build this mansion. Prince Julius’ dream seemingly was to build a house within the school grounds to act as the activity point of the Student Council. Although his dream became a reality…it didn't even last a year, and Julius Hall was closed down. Even the name ‘Julius Hall’ was erased. The reason for that shouldn't be difficult to imagine, right?”

“Because Prince Julius killed his Pal Mordred…”

“You’re correct. That’s why the Student Council naturally couldn't continue to use the building which was named after Dragon Slayer. For the ten years afterwards, the entrance of Julius Hall was cordoned off, so as to prevent unauthorised persons from entering.”

Rebecca looked at the house with sharp eyes.

“However…after a series of events, we already clearly understand that Prince Julius is by no means the most heinous person he is believed to be. Perhaps we will have to wait for a long time before we can publicly announce the injustice. But, simply removing the seal on Julius Hall shouldn't pose a problem. Furthermore, we have also obtained the agreement of Princess Mirabel.”

After saying that, Rebecca removed the Dragon Crystal from her pocket. The crystal which seemed to originate from a Maestro emitted a sacred light.

“—Lightning Dragon Break!”

At the same time that Rebecca activated the Dragon Magic, a burst of thunder and lightning enveloped the surroundings along with a gust of wind.

—Boom!

The wooden planks that were nailed across the main entrance shattered along with the sound of their destruction. However, even after being struck by lightning, the main door didn't show any trace of damage. Her control of magic techniques was superb. After turning back around to us, Rebecca then relaxed and returned the Dragon Crystal to her pocket. In front of her sharp gaze, Silvia remained still as if she was astonished by it. She appeared to be slightly lost in thought. Perhaps she was still thinking about Ash, as she rarely spoke today.

“Now, since this house is your brother’s work, so it would be more suitable for you to unlock it, Silvia.”

Silvia suddenly returned to her senses, and then walked up to Rebecca's side.

“Thank you, President. Although it can’t be publicly announced…for this house to be reopened again, aniue<ref>Aniue: Respectful manner of addressing an elder brother.</ref> would definitely be very happy.”

After Silvia seemingly reluctantly accepted the key, she walked towards the front of the main entrance. She seemed to look at the door with mixed feelings for a while, then made her resolve, and inserted the key into the keyhole. A metallic clicking noise indicated that the door had been unlocked. Rebecca was the first person to begin applauding. Following that, Ash and the others also began to clap. They all intended to express their congratulations to Silvia. Even Eco, who was in a cold war with Silvia, did not get angry. Although she had a foul expression on her face, she graciously applauded Silvia as a celebration.

“Thank you everyone, thank you…”

Silvia’s eyes were tinged slightly red, as she felt moved. This heart-warming scene also naturally caused Ash to smile. At that time, Silvia inadvertently looked towards Ash. When the gaze of the two people met, Silvia’s face suddenly became red, and she lowered her head.

“Congratulations, Hime-sama.”

Nonetheless, Ash sincerely gave his congratulations to her.

“T-Thank you…Ash.”

Although her tone was somewhat stiff, Silvia was willing to reply at the very least, so Ash also relaxed somewhat. Ever since the two of them kissed at the novitiate, this was the first time that they finally had a face-to-face conversation.

[[Image:SnRK V06 060.jpg|thumb]]

“—Ow!”

The next instant, Ash felt a sharp pain on his bottom, and he distorted his face in pain. He gritted his teeth in order to resist the pain, and then turned around to look behind.

“…What kind of perverted expression is that?”

Eco had a dissatisfied face, and she forcefully pinched Ash’s bottom. It seemed as though the conversation between Ash and Silvia made her feel a bit…no, it was a highly dissatisfied expression. Ash resisted the pain from his bottom and whispered in Eco’s ear

“I-I don’t have a perverted expression! I was just congratulating her before…”

“Hmm, is that so?”

Seeing Eco increase the strength in her fingers, Ash didn't want the people around him to find out that he was so pathetic, so he desperately suppressed his urge to moan out.

“Well, everyone. If possible, I’d like to hold a luxurious tea party to celebrate the reopening of Julius Hall, but…as you can see, this place has been abandoned for ten years.”

After Rebecca revealed a mischievous smile, she loudly announced the content of today’s task.

“First, we have a big clean up job!”

===Part 4===
For this reason, all members of the Student Council rolled up their sleeves and started to clean — no one thought that it would be the beginning of a nightmare.

“Hiyaa!”

As she fell, Silvia tipped over a bucket, and spilled it all over the floor.

“Mou, please Hime-sama, you don’t need to do any more — kyaa!”

Jessica had slipped on the wet floor, and fell down bottom first. A spider web had also woven itself onto her face.

“Muu<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>!”

On the other side, Eco and Lucca were competing to see who was stronger. Rebecca had asked the two of them to move a vase to the reception room, and they were now competing for dominance. The two of them disregarded the seemingly high artistic value of the vase as they pulled it in a tug of war, insisting that they would move it themselves.

“Have I come to hell…?”

Ash muttered with a look of amazement.

“They sure can give people a headache.”

Rebecca went behind Ash, as her moist lips drew a wry smile.

“Actually, I told them that ‘Ash likes girls who do housework’…from the looks of it, the effect of that was too strong.”

“Eeh!? That’s too much, what are you talking about!”

“Fufu. You really know how to play with their emotions, which is remarkable for a first timer, Ash.”

“I-I don’t play with their feelings, that’s too exaggerated!”

“You’re not thinking about turning the Student Council into your own harem, are you?”

“No no no, how would I!”

Seeing Ash become embarrassed, Rebecca laughed without restraint.

“Haha, just kidding. Anyway, I was too stupid to expect anything from them. Silvia has probably never done any housework since she was born; although Jessica is from a family of servants, she’s rather clumsy, and she’s also a daredevil. Lucca is a typical ‘sloppy girl’, and as for Eco, well…I think you would know better than me, right?”

“…You’re right. If Cosette-san was here, I think it would be much easier.”

“Don’t think of Cosette-san like that, she is incredibly busy. Besides, she is Silvia’s personal maid after all, so we shouldn't ask her to help out so casually. It’s just that, in a chaotic situation such as this, you also don’t want to clean up.”

Just when Rebecca sighed, an accident occurred between Eco and Lucca who were arguing. They had been holding the vase in a tug of war, but Eco suddenly let go.

“Ah…!”

“Hmph! Don’t look down on the wisdom of dragons!”

“I think it should be called a childish idea?”

While watching Eco’s triumphant expression, Ash cursed in his mind, but held back and didn't say it out loud. But Lucca's hand clutched onto the vase as she lost her balance and stumbled back. Correctly speaking, she was falling towards the direction that Ash was facing.

“Eh…?”

Upon seeing that Lucca's back was almost in front of him, Ash was momentarily at a loss on what to do. He scrambled to catch Lucca's petite body with his arms, and the fragrance of herbs entered his nostrils — the next moment, his body lost balance due to the impact. Coincidentally, Max was walking past behind Ash. Max was distracted as he looked towards the floor — he didn't expect such a disaster, as Ash crashed into him while he still holding onto Lucca. Max, who had unexpectedly been affected, was knocked back hard.

“—Ah! My glasses!”

Although he seemed to have heard Max’s exclamation, Ash didn't have the capacity to worry about his situation. After rolling over several times with Lucca, he finally stopped, and then slowly opened his eyes to glance around—

“Ouch!”

The sight immediately in front of his eyes gave him a scare. He was unable to utter a sound, because there was something soft pressed onto Ash’s nose and mouth. His entire field of vision was occupied by a pattern of green and white stripes, and he could faintly smell a sweet fragrance.

“Ah! N-No…Ash’s breath…!”

In fact, Lucca's lower body was riding on top of Ash’s face.

''—Wah…please hurry and get up!''

Ash desperately wanted to convey his thoughts.

“Awu…!”

However, the more that Ash tried to speak, the more intensely Lucca's body shivered. Her thighs on both the left and right side were also clamping onto Ash’s head. Ash was enveloped by the heat of Lucca's body, which made Ash feel as though he was about to faint — but he quickly sensed that a surge of murderous intent was coming towards him, which caused him to shiver.

“You brat…what are you doing while taking advantage of the confusion!”

“How shameless! And you call yourself a Dragonar!”

“That’s making other people feel jealous! Please swap with me!”

It was the three people Eco, Silvia and Jessica. The previous dispute seemed to be futile; those three people had unwittingly signed a truce and now snappily glared at Ash and Lucca. But, Jessica’s point of concern was different from that of the other two people.

“Ah…don’t need……a-already……fine—!”

Lucca suddenly tensed her body, and then her entire body quivered. In the blink of the eye, she seemed to be exhausted, and then slumped forwards. Her delicate upper body which was like that of a fairy’s collapsed onto Ash’s body.

''—Not good! This position is…!''

Lucca's face landed on top of Ash’s crotch. Indeed, this position was far too dangerous. He also remembered that in the adult magazines that he borrowed from Raymond that there were images which resembled his current position.

“Uwaahh!”

Ash desperately scrambled out from underneath Lucca's body. What just happened to Lucca's body? Ash was puzzled, and peered at Lucca's face as she lay on the floor.

“Ash you…pervert. You've ruined me…I can’t get married now.”

Lucca's breathlessness didn't stop, and she looked at Ash with breathtakingly flirtatious eyes. Her amethyst coloured eyes were watery, and her cheeks were dyed deep red. In addition to her cheeks, her long elf-like ears were dyed a shade of pink from the tip to the earlobe.

“I-I’m sorry, Lucca…!”

Despite the fact that it was an unfortunate accident, it was an indisputable fact that he had buried his face into a girl’s secret garden. Ash’s conscience felt uneasy. However, it seemed as though he didn't even have a single second to repent.

“Ash, have you mentally prepared yourself to be crushed?”

[[Image:SnRK V06 066.jpg|thumb]]

“How dare you be so shameless, I think even bringing out the Lautreamont Family’s motto will be in vain, right?”

For some reason, both Eco and Silvia had smiles on their faces. The Dragon’s kick and the Princess Knight’s iron fist struck at the same time.

“Oww!”

Although Ash was defencelessly thrown into the air, the strange thing was that this had a somewhat nostalgic feeling. It was almost as if one returned to their homeland after an absence of several years, a sensation which made people’s hearts warm. These past few months, the situation around Ash had changed immensely, causing him to feel confused. The truths which were unknown had been revealed one after the other. As the Avalon Knight, Ash had entered an area where he could only advance, as there was no path for retreat — but at least in this moment, he seemed to have temporarily returned to the lively times which were common when Eco was born.

===Part 5===
“Whew. Blame me for being too stupid for having you to do cleaning work. Anyway, all of you wait outside for me. In the meantime, you can let your heads cool down.”

After Rebecca crossed her arms in front of her chest, she spoke in a severe tone to Eco, Silvia, Lucca and Jessica. Eco and the others, who were ordered to assemble into a straight line didn't even dare to utter a sound.

“Umm…President. I’m going to visit the optometrist.”

On the contrary, Max seemed dejected from being affected by the accident, and lost his enthusiasm. After all, his pair of glasses had broken, so it was inevitable that he would get frustrated. Max himself was not injured, his lenses had simply been cracked, which could be considered lucky amidst the misfortune. After watching Eco and the others leave, Ash realised an important fact.

''—Isn't this strange? Right now…doesn't that leave me alone with Rebecca-san…?''

Indeed, the ones who remained at Julius Hall were just the two people, Ash and Rebecca. The instant that he realised this, Ash’s body suddenly became tense.

“What is it, Ash?”

Rebecca asked in wonder when Ash panicked. A refreshing fragrance slowly made its way into Ash’s nose. It was undoubtedly the scent of Rebecca's body.

“No-Nothing…I-I’m fine!”

It was just that the more Ash pretended to be calm, the less he could speak properly.

“It couldn't be that you’re starting to feel nervous because you suddenly have to be alone with me, right?”

Rebecca had quickly seen right through Ash.

“T-That…”

“You don’t need to make yourself so nervous. If you think about it, we haven’t been alone together for a long time.”

Rebecca suddenly gave him a flirtatious look, and Ash could not prevent his heart from beating faster. Not only his cheeks, but even his earlobes became hot. Rebecca laughed and enjoyed the extremely embarrassed look on Ash’s face.

“I’ll tell you, Ash. Although this Rebecca Randall is the strict Student Council President, she is also a woman. Who knows if I wanted to create a situation where we would be alone from the beginning?”

“…Eh?”

“First of all, expelling those noisy girls from the room to create the current situation was none other than this — precisely what this lady wanted.”

“Rebecca…san?”

Ash nervously swallowed his saliva.

Could it be that Rebecca-san…she really wanted to be alone, so that was why she got rid of Eco and the others?

“Ash, it’s only us two in this house right now. Whatever we do, we won’t need to be afraid of anyone finding out.”

Rebecca calmly extended out her hands, and placed them on Ash’s face. Her slender fingers were gently stroking Ash’s cheeks. Through her fingertips, he could faintly feel the temperature of Rebecca's body…

“Wah! Don’t do that, Rebecca-san!”

“Eh, why not?”

Rebecca turned her face slightly towards one side. She performed an action which was filled with the flavour of a young woman and displayed her charm, which caused Ash to feel lost as to where he should look.

“Because you’re so well behaved, Rebecca-san, you have an awe-inspiring appearance, you’re equally strict with yourself and everyone else…the point is, you’re the idol that the students of the entire school admire! For someone like you who’s admired like that, you can’t do these things just because it’s fun!”

“Phh…ahahahaha!”

Seeing Rebecca suddenly laugh, Ash was surprised. Rebecca, who normally laughed with dignity, was now laughing so hard that even tears had formed in the corners of her eyes.

“Rebecca-san?”

“Sorry. You looked so innocent and pure, so I couldn't help restraining my laughter.”

“Eh? Then that means the things you just said are…”

“Of course it’s a joke.”

“Rebecca-san, that’s going too far!”

“Haha, didn't I already apologise to you? It seems that the joke went a bit too far.”

After Rebecca smiled for a moment, her expression suddenly became serious.

“Yes, Ash. Taking this rare opportunity, I’ll confess to you how I feel.”

Ash’s heartbeat rapidly accelerated. Rebecca took a step forward, and then placed both her hands on top of Ash’s shoulders. Her expression was serious. She seemed like a completely different person from the one who was laughing just a moment before, and it didn't seem anything like a joke.

“Listen to me, Ash. I have a lot of expectations from you.”

“Expectations?”

“Yes, that’s right. If I had to say that there was a student in this Academy who could exceed me — that person would definitely be you, Ash; that is my expectation.”

“You’re flattering me too much, I couldn't do that!”

“There’s no need to be humble. I want you to become the next Student Council President. I’m going to graduate in half a year’s time, so I need to start looking for candidates to be my successor.”

“Eh!”

Those unexpected words left Ash speechless. The Student Council President of Dragonar Academy had a lot of responsibility, and couldn't be compared to any ordinary Student Council Presidents. The position didn't just surpass the mayor of Ansarivan City, but also gave the right to participate in municipal politics. In contrast, the President also needed to work hard to maintain the Academy’s top academic ranking. After all, as the Student Council President of Ansarivan, if results were unsatisfactory, it would be difficult to set an example for other students. For Ash, the position of Student Council President was like an unattainable cloud.

“Anyway, this is something which will not happen for a good few months. It’s enough for you to simply keep what I just said in a corner of your mind. Well – that’s the end of my personal matters. Before that group of noisy girls get back, let’s first clean up.”

“I understand, Rebecca-san!”

Ash stood up straight, and then responded with a brisk and loud reply. In fact, Rebecca's request was very abrupt, causing him to feel quite confused and unprepared, but he could truly feel Rebecca's feelings of expectation. Before he became a member of the Student Council, Rebecca's existence was like a flower at the peak of a mountain. He never thought that such a great senior would actually harbour such deep trust in him, and this fact caused Ash’s entire body to tremble with delight.

===Part 6===
“Yes, Ash. I actually found that there are bathrooms inside earlier…but there seems to be some problem with the plumbing. Could I trouble you to take a look?”

Just when Ash was busy wiping down the table in the conference room, Rebecca called for his help.

“When it comes to these kinds of hardware items, boys should understand it better, right?”

Ash stopped his hands, and then turned around to look at Rebecca.

“But what if I’m not familiar with those kinds of things?”

“If you can’t fix it, then we can just ask workers to repair it afterwards. Anyway, just go and take a look first.”

“Okay.”

Ash let go of the cloth, and then left with Rebecca. While they were passing through the corridor which had been swept clean, he began speaking to Rebecca, who was walking in front of him with large strides.

“I really didn't think that there would even be bathrooms inside here.”

“Indeed. There’s a reception room, kitchen, meeting room, bedrooms, library, and even bathrooms…I looked around briefly, and this house has everything that it needs, it certainly is well-equipped.”

After a while, Rebecca arrived at a door which had a ‘bathroom’ sign hung on it.

“Incredible…!”

As soon as Ash stepped into the bathroom, he couldn't help letting out words of praise. The bathroom was spacious enough to accommodate five people at once, and it was adorned with a splendid dragon styled décor, which was cause for amazement. The luxurious baths were built with marble. The four walls were decorated with dragon lights, which created a dreamy atmosphere inside the bathroom. However, it had been left unused for some ten years, so it not only had thick layers of dust, but also traces of mould everywhere. But, as long as it was given a thorough cleaning, it probably wouldn't lose to the bathroom of a high-class hotel.

“It’s too early to celebrate, Ash. Do you remember what I just told you? The bathroom’s plumbing equipment seems to be broken.”

Rebecca reached out to turn one of the taps. But, perhaps because some part of the metallic components had rusted, the tap didn't move at all. Thus, there was no way to fill the bathtub with water.

“Let’s swap and I’ll try.”

After Ash and Rebecca swapped, Ash gripped onto the tap handle.

“Unn…!”

He used all his effort to try rotating it. The tap seemed to have a slight ‘squeaking’ sound as it turned a bit, but there was still no water flow.

“Oh. It didn't move even when I tried before, boys really do have more strength.”

“It isn't that much of a big deal…”

Having lost his father when he was young, although Ash was used to hearing this kind of praise since he grew up in a single parent household, the same words coming from Rebecca still made him feel embarrassed.

“Alright, I’ll also help.”

Rebecca suddenly wrapped her hand around Ash’s hand.

“…!”

A surge of warmth seemed to be transmitted to him from the two hands which were pressed against each other. It felt as though the warmth of Rebecca's body enveloped his whole right hand. It wasn't just that. Because Rebecca leaned her body closer to Ash, her ample breasts pressed against Ash’s back…

''—Uh oh! This situation is bad!''

Toku toku toku…Ash’s chest was pounding incessantly. It seemed as if his whole mind focused on this heated moment, and liquid was gathering in his lower body. In order to cut off all distractions, Ash decided to focus all of his attention towards the task of ‘turning the tap’.

“I’m going to turn it, Rebecca-san!”

After clenching the tap handle, Ash mustered all of his strength. Rebecca also strongly gripped his hand.

—Ga!

The rusty tap was successfully turned at last.

“Yes!”

Ash joyfully cheered, but Rebecca raised her brows in surprise.

“Wait a minute, Ash. The thing that you’re holding in your hand…what is it?”

“Eh?”

Ash carefully looked at the object that was held firmly within the palm of his hand. —It was actually the corroded and broken faucet, which had been forcefully broken off. The next instant, the tap which had lost its faucet violently spewed out a column of water.

“Uwaa!”

“Get away quickly, Ash!”

Rebecca pushed Ash aside, and then took out a Dragon Crystal.

“{{Furigana|Frozen Fang of the Blue Ice Dragon|Azul Ex-Breath}}!”

In front of the invocation of the Oracle, there was a blue dragon spell, which belonged to high-level magic. The spell which was invoked by Rebecca had the effect of freezing, which was evident from the name. At the same time that Ash felt a burst of the biting cold, the column of water became ice.

“Phew…that’ll manage to stop the leak. I’ll ask the workers to repair the plumbing problems at a later date—”

Rebecca's face carried an expression that didn't seem to mind, and she turned back around to look at Ash.

“It looks like the both of us are completely wet now.”

“Haha….yes.”

At that time, Ash noticed that both he and Rebecca were completely soaked. Rebecca's drenched red hair had droplets of water dripping down. Her thoroughly soaked uniform was tightly sticking onto her skin, and emphasised the perfect curves of her body.

“Hm? Is there something wrong? Ash.”

Rebecca twirled her wet hair as she pondered that. Did she not realise that her current behaviour was very seductive? Or was she perhaps feigning it again so that she could tease Ash for fun?

“I-It’s nothing! I’m going to light the fireplace!”

[[Image:SnRK V06 078.jpg|thumb]]

Ash quickly turned around, and swiftly bolted towards the reception room which had a fireplace.

===Part 7===
The storage room seemed to have some firewood which could still be used, so Ash decided to use them. The sculpture on top of the stone fireplace was a soaring dragon which carried a strong resemblance to the style of Dragonar Academy. After Ash lit the fire, Rebecca also came to the reception room.

“Ah, Rebecca-san, you came just at the right time, I just lit the fire.”

“Thank you, Ash.”

After seeing Rebecca step in front of the fireplace, she suddenly began to take off her uniform.

“…!”

Her one-piece uniform fell onto the floor with a ‘pacha’ noise. Her snow-white skin was exposed from underneath her clothes. Rebecca bodyline was like an hourglass, which had a graceful eight<ref>Basically saying that Rebecca’s body resembles a figure 8. My interpretation: large bust, slim waist, wide hips.</ref> figure. One of her bra straps had already slipped off her shoulder, and was just clinging onto her upper arm. It was a mature and enchanting appearance…

“I-I’ll go outside and wait!”

Ash wanted to rush out of the room in order to avoid it.

“Wait, Ash.”

However, Rebecca had immediately grabbed his wrist and pulled him back, which caused Ash to nearly bite his tongue.

“Rebecca-san…?”

The proud <Scarlet Empress> had calmly exposed her bare skin in front of Ash. Moreover, it was just the two people, Ash and Rebecca in the room right now.

“You also got completely soaked, hurry up and take your uniform off. The Five Hundred Years Festival is almost here, it’ll be troublesome if you catch a cold.”

In contrast to the embarrassed Ash, Rebecca's expression was serious.

“But…”

“What, are you disagreeing with my orders?”

Rebecca's eyes narrowed into a slit. She didn't smile, her eyes were frozen like the spell, and they radiated a chilling atmosphere.

“I follow! I-I’ll t-take them off!”

“Hm, it’s good if you’re obedient.”

Rebecca laughed contentedly.

Ash listened to the ‘crackling’ sound emitted by the fireplace, as he sat with his arms around his bent knees. The bandage which was wrapped around his left arm had also been soaked by the water, so he also took it off along with his uniform to dry. Having the <Seikoku> on his left arm exposed, and sitting down with only his underwear on caused Ash to feel uneasy.

“………”

After Ash sat down in front of the fireplace, he had not said a word. Rebecca, who was wearing only her underwear was sitting behind him to share the heat. If he was unlucky enough to allow Eco or Silvia to see this scene, it would be fair enough to see that he would be dragged to his death…just when Ash was thinking about that—

—Pah.

Rebecca suddenly leaned onto his back, and Ash couldn't stop himself from being startled by it. Rebecca's skin was touching Ash’s back. No, it wasn't just called touching anymore. It was completely pressed against him. Through their close skin contact, Ash could feel the warmth of Rebecca's body.

“This way, it feels much warmer, right?”

Rebecca whispered to Ash.

“Y…Y-Y-Yeah…!”

Ash was so embarrassed that even his voice broke when he tried to speak. He had become as stiff as a stone statue because he was aware that Rebecca had leaned her back against his own.

===Part 8===
The four girls Eco, Silvia, Lucca, and Jessica, who were all kicked out of from Julius Hall sat side by side on a bench in the academy, bored. There was no doubt that all four of them had feelings for Ash. As a result, the current scene was somewhat awkward and unnatural. No one wanted to start talking about anything, so the tense and silent atmosphere continued.

''—Ah…the one who should be closest to Ash should obviously be me, why are there so many attractive female animals sticking beside him…''

Eco quietly peeked at Silvia’s and Jessica’s chests. Both of them had breasts which could make their uniform jacket tall and full. Moreover, Silvia was the Princess of the Knight Country, and Jessica was also quite impressive. As for Lucca, although she had a quiet personality, and her bust size was just as flat as Eco’s, she had the unique, fairy-like beauty that only those of Eckbald possessed, in addition to being quite gifted.

''—C-Could…I be the one lacking the most feminine charm among these four people…?''

Ever since she had obtained the information from the Mother Dragon, Eco no longer needed to worry about the difference between races. If she was allowed to grow for a period of time, Eco would also be able to bear children with humans. Being able to stand on the same starting line as her rivals caused Eco to feel excited. However, not long after that, she began to have a new feeling of unease.

''—Also, Rebecca feels strange.''

Only the two people, Ash and Rebecca remained to work inside Julius Hall. The serious Rebecca didn't seem like a person who would have indecent relationships, but when discussing who was the strongest and most beautiful female student in the school, everyone would undoubtedly say ‘Rebecca Randall’. Furthermore, the way that Rebecca looked at Ash compared to the other male students felt completely different. Of course, Eco didn't have any evidence to support her ideas. It was based purely on an animal — no, a woman’s intuition. At that time—

“—Hey, ladies. How’s your mood today?”

A male student with long hair had suddenly flown over to them. The male student had a tidy appearance, and the temperament of a noble. The Maestro which exuded a brilliant elegance swept up a gust of wind, and then landed on the ground. The Maestro had a large figure, on par with Gawain. The black crystals which were decorated on its forehead blossomed with a chilling cold glow. The instant that she saw those black crystals, Eco shuddered. Although the crystals looked like decorations, a terrifying aura could be sensed from them. With the imposing appearance of a noble, he stood on top of the Maestro’s head.

“He is…!”

Seeing his face, Jessica immediately stood up from the bench. It seemed as though Jessica knew the name of this man. Eco carefully looked at the noble’s face. His jet-black hair was tied into a bunch, his slender eyebrows possessed determination, and his two eyes were a shade of dark blue. He had a high nose, and he was like a handsome statue crafted by top-class sculptors.

“…Who are you?”

After Eco angrily glared at him, the noble made a hearty laugh.

“Seeing as you have the horns of a dragon on your head…you must be Eco, right?”

Zidon, zidon…the Maestro moved closer to Eco, step by step along with the sound of its muffled footsteps. Both sides became very close to each other, so much so that if they had the intention of doing so, it could open its mouth to swallow Eco. Even so, Eco did not show any signs of fear. It was because she knew that dragons wouldn't harm their own kins’ descendant of the Avalon Royal Family without reason. The noble extended his hand towards Eco with a graceful movement.

“Young dragon Eco — starting today, you will be my partner.”

“What?”

What was this man trying to say?

“Listen carefully, Eco. In my rule, you play an indispensable role. I’ll get straight to the point; I need you. More specifically, I need the power of the Avalon Holy Dragons’ Royal Family.”

“You…are you a pawn of the Empire!?”

Eco became more vigilant, and stared at the noble.

“Fu…how sad, you’d actually lump me together with those people from the Zepharos Empire.”

“Then, who are you?”

The noble revealed an eloquent smile, as if he had been waiting for Eco to ask this question for a long time. As if it had understood its master’s thoughts, the Maestro immediately switched to stand on its hind legs. Oscar’s foothold was suddenly elevated higher.

“My name is Oscar Brailsford, the future king of Chevron! This dragon is my faithful Pal, Tristan!”

The noble imposingly declared that from high above them.

“That sounds rather condescending…”

Jessica, who was beside Eco murmured that with a somewhat surprised expression. At that time, Silivia, who had initially remained quiet, stood up and walked forward.

“That’s a rather rude and condescending introduction, Oscar-dono.”

“Well well, it’s actually Her Royal Highness Princess Silvia Lautreamont-dono. I almost didn't recognise you because you were mingling with these common people.”

After Oscar scoffed at that, he looked down at Silvia arrogantly. The two of them seemed to be old acquaintances. One of them was the Princess of the Knight Country, and the other was a noble of the Chevron Kingdom, so it wasn't strange for them to have met each other before in other places…Eco secretly thought.

“Oscar-dono, with all due respect, I remember that your succession to the throne is ranked as one hundred and eighth, which in short, is last. Practically speaking, your succession to the throne is nothing more than a dream, correct?”

“Fu…it is correct that my current position is at the very bottom. But if you only judge the situation with one-sided information, you can’t become the Queen of Knights, you know?”

“What did you say…!?”

Silvia’s face became red.

“It is correct that among my siblings, there are hundreds of people with the right to inherit the throne, however, I have the Maestro Tristan. Among the potential successors to the throne, I am the only Dragonar.”

With an egocentric expression, Oscar continued

“In addition, the requirements for the successor of the Chevron Kingdom are concise and simple — as long as they’re male, and they’re the strongest, then that’s enough! In order to make myself become the strongest candidate to the throne, I need Eco!”

“It appears…there’s no room for discussion.”

Silvia decided to give up on convincing him, as she glared at Oscar—

“Listen carefully, Oscar Brailsford! Dragons are the treasure of the Knight Country, so as the Princess of the Lautreamont Family — and as a friend, I will protect Eco, and she will not be associated with you!”

“You…!”

Hearing this magnificent declaration, Eco looked at Silvia’s back in surprise. Ever since the novitiate ended, the relationship between Eco and Silvia had become rigid. Eco said that she could not forgive Silvia for kissing Ash no matter what, while Silvia locked herself in her own room all day. Even so — facing Oscar, who coveted Eco, Silvia did not hesitate to declare that she would protect her. She even called her a ‘friend’. Eco couldn't stop her eyes from becoming watery. Silvia took out a Bright Dragon Crystal from her pocket, and then raised it up high.

“—I command you in the name of Silvia Lautreamont! Come, Lancelot!”

“Hooooaaaaarrrrr…oooooo…!”

Lancelot’s roar responded to Silvia’s call, and a thunder-like sound rattled the sky. Lancelot instantly appeared at that point in space. After Silvia jumped onto its back and gripped the reins, she confronted Oscar. However, in contrast to Tristan, Lancelot’s body was rather small, and there was still room for growth. Their age difference was only a year, but it was like the difference between an adult and a child. The problem wasn't Lancelot’s lack of maturity, but rather, it was Tristan’s extraordinary growth.

“Fu…since that’s the case, we’ll come and test your skill. Tristan!”

In response to Oscar’s command, Tristan roared. From Tristan’s nose, a violet ball of lightning was fired. The sphere gradually became larger as it was accompanied by crackling sounds.

—Doon!

Next, a shockwave powerful enough to shake the earth exploded. What Tristan used was high-level magic — {{Furigana|Silver Ray of the Lightning Dragon|Shiny Silver Lightning Blast}}.

“Kuh…Lancelot!”

Lancelot followed Silvia’s instructions, and created a defensive magic shield. A crystal-like protective barrier shined brilliantly, and formed in front of Lancelot. The instant that those two impacted each other — a flash of light rendered everything in Eco’s vision a shade of silvery-white. Eco held onto Jessica’s body, and slowly opened her eyes. Then, she witnessed an unbelievable sight. Lancelot was actually being pushed pack while being pressed against its protective barrier/shield.

“Fufu. Has your arrogance from before disappeared? Princess Silvia?”

Oscar teased with a tyrannical tone. Tristan then fired a second, and third ball of light.

“Guh…hold on, Lancelot!”

Silvia gritted her teeth and made a cry of anguish. As strong as Lancelot was, it could only focus entirely on defence at this time, and seemed to be unable to move.

“Come, Gawain!”

Lucca, who realised that Silvia was struggling, raised her Dragon Crystal up high and called for Gawain.

“Ruuuooooooooooooooooo…!”

Gawain also jumped through space to instantly appear. After a mighty roar similar to that of Lancelot, Gawain carried Lucca on its back, and then flew towards Tristan to attack. Tristan’s magic attack was interrupted, as it quickly dodged Gawain’s sudden assault.

“Thanks, Lucca!”

Silvia, who had been freed, moved to Gawain’s side while she rode on Lancelot.

“That person…is very strong…”

Lucca actually made a rare frown.

“It’s alright, Lucca. As long as we work together he’s not a match for us.”

Silvia spoke confidently, but Lucca shook her head.

“Be careful…the black crystal on Tristan’s forehead…has an ominous feeling.”

“What are you saying?”

A leisurely smile emerged on Oscar’s face.

“Fu. You’re an Eckbald person in the Unios Course? This battle is becoming more and more interesting.”

Tristan’s massive body suddenly disappeared. Like the words ‘suddenly disappeared’, it had vanished from that spot.

“What!”

The same time that Silvia exclaimed in surprise, Tristan had moved behind Lancelot. Tristan’s tail twisted and bent like a whip, and directly struck Lancelot’s hind leg. Although Lancelot let out a painful wail, it endured the pain, and did not back down yet. The moment that it turned around, it released a red spray of dragon’s breath. Tristan also spat out a crimson fire dragon breath, without showing any signs of weakness. The two breaths got closer to a collision, and whipped up a burst of wind. However, with the same kind of breath attack, Tristan’s firepower overwhelmingly surpassed that of Lancelot.

“Uooh…!”

In order to protect its master at all costs, the wounded Lancelot made an intimidating growl at Tristan despite its injuries.

“—Gawain!”

At that time, without knowing what Lucca could be thinking, she began to fly straight up into the sky at high-speed.

“Could it be…!”

Eco widened her eyes. She recalled the scene from the lakeside training camp several months ago. Lucca was flying about in the sky over the academy. No, she wasn't just flying about without a purpose — Lucca was painting the pattern of her <Seikoku> on the canvas of the sky. It looked like she intended to release magic through a Dragon Dance. While gliding through the sky, Gawain left behind a trail of pink magic, and slowly completed the composition/pattern of her <Seikoku>. Oscar remained still, as he did not understand the meaning of it at all. After a while, the pattern of the <Seikoku> was finally completed, and shone down a bright light.

“Second Dragon Riding Dance — ‘Burst of Raining Spears’!”

At the same time that Lucca cried out, a countless number of spears which were made with the power of magic fell towards the ground.

“Hey…Lucca-san!? Even if he is an enemy, this move of yours is too much!”

The myriad of spears which rained down from the sky at high-speed caused Jessica’s face to go pale while she cried out in amazement.

“Fu, so that’s the famed Dragon Riding Dance?”

Oscar looked up at the sky, and happily muttered. In an instant, many spears pierced the ground, which caused a cloud of dust to rise into the sky. Oscar and Tristan were enveloped in the cloud of dust. They thought that the other side had been shown who the winner was, but unexpectedly, an arrogant voice actually rang out from within the cloud of dust.

“Unfortunately, the results make me rather disappointed.”

Stunned, Eco widened her eyes and stared ahead. When the dust in front of her dispersed, she could see that Tristan stood undaunted and unharmed within the centre of what had become a large crater, as well as Oscar, who stood upon its head with a clear smile.

“Kuh…!”

Lucca quickly descended, while riding on Gawain. She stood in front of Eco and Jessica to protect them, and also stared at Oscar, who was in front of her with menacing eyes. Maintaining a confrontational position, she said to Jessica without turning her head back

“Jessica…take Eco and run away. Someone able to defeat Oscar…Rebecca would probably be the only one!”

Lucca, who was usually rather calm, was now frantically yelling.

“—Lucca's right. You should hurry up and get President and Ash for protection.”

Interjecting from the side was Silvia. Thanks to the help from Lucca, she was able to gain some time and recovered a bit of her strength. Silvia took the reins, and moved with Lancelot to stand beside Gawain.

“I understand. Come on, Eco-san! We’ll leave this to them for now!”

Jessica pulled Eco’s hand, and quickly began to run — but after not even ten steps, she was stopped in her tracks by an ambush.

“Hmph. Did you think I would let you guys go so easily?”

A girl dressed in a black maid outfit acted as an impregnable wall, and stood in front of those two to block their path. Perhaps because she was wearing a black leather eyepatch, the girl exuded a sense of determination. Her eyebrows were high, which gave off an arrogant impression.

“Ora, hurry up and give the young dragon Eco to me. Otherwise—”

The girl with the eyepatch leaped forward, and then took out a set of daggers. Four in her right hand, and four in her left hand — she mercilessly threw a total of eight daggers at the two people.

“Hii!”

Jessica protected Eco behind her, but her body stiffened in fear—

—Pasha!

Accompanied by the sound of a flag or wings flapping in the air, someone interrupted midway. That person spun around at high-speed to strike down the flying daggers with her skirt.

“Hello, Celes-sama. You’re being too rude, okay?”

The reinforcements who saved Eco and Jessica out of nowhere, was actually Cosette. Looking at the basket in her arms, she should have just returned from her shopping. The daggers which she had struck down with her skirt before were all scattered around Cosette.

“Do you know this woman?”

Upon hearing this question, Cosette revealed a wry smile.

“She’s called Celestina Lafon. She’s Oscar-sama's personal maid. The Lafon family and Shelly family are relatives, which is why I've heard of her.”

“You’re the maid of the fourth Princess! Animals should have the appearance of animals, you should resign yourself to crawling on the ground!”

Celes’ eyebrows were raised to their highest point, and she cursed at Cosette with an unpleasant tone.

“I would return those words right back at you — counterpart-san.”

After Cosette replied with a smile, she whispered to Eco and Jessica

“Although I’m not sure what happened here, please leave this for me to deal with.”

[[Image:SnRK V06 096.jpg|thumb]]

===Part 9===
“In the end, the Vice-President didn't show up. It seems that my leadership skills could be better.”

After a brief silence, Rebecca murmured that out.

“The Vice-President?”

Fortunately, Rebecca took the initiative to start a topic of conversation, and Ash’s tentatively tense mood relaxed. Rebecca and Ash still sat with their backs against each other. The reason why he didn't open his mouth to say anything was because he was afraid that he would collapse at any time.

“Mmn. I did send him a notice about it.”

“Speaking of which…I haven’t seen the Vice-President yet. He’s always absent without an excuse, so is it really okay to overlook this Vice-President? It really doesn't suit you that you’d actually tolerate such a lax person, Rebecca-san.”

“The Vice-President Oscar’s circumstances are highly extraordinary. To be honest, I feel quite troubled.”

Hearing Rebecca's reply as she sighed, Ash felt surprised.

“Even a strong person such as Rebecca-san feels troubled?”

“If it wasn't like that, how would I let him get away with being like that?”

“What kind of person is Vice-President?”

“Oscar Brailsford — is a second year of the Senior course. It might not be possible to count the number of his characteristics with ten fingers…but the characteristic of his that’s most worth mentioning is his identity as a noble of the Chevron Kingdom.”

“Eh? Isn't it a bit too strange that he’s someone from Chevron, yet also a Dragonar?”

“Then, you currently know about this matter?”

“Sorry. I’m not very familiar with any news outside the Academy…”

“It’s fine. You’re not wrong, foreigners don’t have the right to participate in the <Orphan Ceremony>. However, the aristocracy of the Chevron Kingdom is an exception. Every year, several children who are members of the Chevron royalty and aristocracy are sent here to participate, the truth is that it’s a special place.”

“I didn't know about this at all…”

“The special places were decided on fifty years ago. It’s just that, not a single Chevron person has succeeded in becoming a breeder these past fifty years. Whether the reason was because they lacked qualities to become a breeder, or perhaps the Mother Dragon insisted on people from the Knight Country…no one knows.”

“So Vice-President is the first successful case?”

“That’s right. After a long time of being ignored, or perhaps lacking the special qualifications to participate, the first Chevron person recognised by the Mother Dragon was Oscar.”

“The Vice-President really isn't just some ordinary guy…but, is that it?”

“What do you mean?”

Rebecca seemed slightly startled for a moment.

“I now already know that he’s a noble of Chevron and that he has special circumstances. But that doesn't seem like a reason that would cause you to feel troubled.”

“…Fu. You mind is quite sharp.”

Rebecca revealed a slight smile, as if in admiration of that.

“It is in fact like this…”

When Rebecca's words became slightly vague and quiet, Ash felt surprised.

“Towards me in the past, Oscar—”

In that moment, as if to interrupt Rebecca's words—

DOOON…!

A ground-shaking noise like that of an earthquake suddenly reverberated, along with an earthquake-like trembling.

“Uwah! That was just an earthquake right!?”

“Yes, the epicentre is very close to us.”

Through their backs which were pressed against each other, he could feel that Rebecca had tensed up. But, Rebecca didn't have any intention of separating.

“Could it be that there’s construction work around here?”

“No, I haven’t heard of any plans for construction work.”

At the same time that Rebecca calmly replied to that question…

—PANG!

The door to the reception room was roughly shoved open.

“It’s bad, Ash!”

“Hime-sama and Lucca-san are in danger!”

Eco and Jessica shouted that out as they rushed in, seemingly short of breath. Although the two of them were out of breath, the expression on their faces changed to anger as soon as they saw the appearance of Ash and Rebecca.

“Hey! You guys aren't cleaning seriously at all!”

“Rebecca-san! You didn't make up an excuse to drive us out so that you could be alone with Ash-sama, did you?”

Eco and Jessica advanced towards them while they revealed terrifying expressions on their faces.

“Calm down a bit both of you. We just got wet because the tap faucet broke, and now we’re waiting for our uniforms to dry.”

In contrast to Ash’s embarrassed face, Rebecca replied with confidence.

“Was it really just that? You two wouldn't currently be…enjoying yourselves after doing it, right?”

“Nothing like that. Getting back to the point, you guys said that Silvia and Lucca were in danger; what actually happened?”

After a sharp glance from Rebecca, Jessica recalled the urgent situation.

“Yes! Eco-san was targeted by Oscar, and then…”

Eco then followed Jessica’s incomplete sentence.

“In order to allow us to escape, Silvia, Lucca and Cosette are fighting against them!”

Although the situation sounded quite unbelievable, Eco and Jessica wore serious expressions, so it didn't seem like they were lying.

“So that loud sound from before was…”

Ash was dumbfounded. If Oscar’s target was Eco, then it was connected to Ash as well. Although he didn't know what Oscar was thinking, since he had set his eyes on Eco, Ash wouldn't be able to let him go. Even if the other side was his senior, the Student Council Vice-President, or a Chevron noble — since he wanted to harm Eco, Ash had no choice but to fight back against him.

“Rebecca-san! I’m going to stop Oscar!”

Ash picked up his half-dry uniform and swiftly put it on, and then rushed out of the room.

“I’m also going!”

Coming from behind Ash was the sound of Eco’s high-pitched yell.

===Part 10===
“How is this possible!?”

After arriving at the Academy, Ash gasped, and he stood frozen on the spot.

“This is a joke, right…?”

Beside Ash, Eco was also flabbergasted and lost for words. Lancelot and Gawain both curled up their bodies, and lay in the middle of the Academy grounds. Silvia and Lucca were lying on top of the backs of their respective Pals; they had lost consciousness, and passed out. At first glance, the two of them didn't seem to have any obvious external injuries, so Ash let out a sigh of relief. On the other hand, in a place that was some distance away from the battle of the Dragonars—

“Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh!”

Two maids were staring each other down as they released a murderous intent. One of them was Cosette, the other was a girl wearing an eyepatch. It was a face that Ash did not recognise. A haughty voice drifted down towards Ash’s head.

“—Yo, Ash Blake. You've finally come.”

The boy who had defeated Silvia and Lucca stood in a relaxed manner atop the head of the Maestro Tristan.

“You’re the Vice-President? What’s your purpose for doing this?”

Oscar looked straight into Ash’s face, and then smiled after a brief pause.

“I've wanted to meet you for a long time. Of course, it would be a meeting of fists!”

Tristan responded to Oscar’s words, and took a step forward. DON…! The ground shook vigorously up and down along with a thunderous sound.

“Hold on! Since you want to exchange fists, we’ll talk once you get down from there first!”

Ash shouted upwards loudly, but Oscar simply looked down with a condescending gaze and said with a cold and sarcastic tone

“When did I say that I was going to use my fists? I want to give you Tristan’s fist.”

“Do you want to kill me!?”

“Trash talk!”

At the behest of Oscar, Tristan stomped down its front limb. Ash hugged Eco and jumped aside with her.

“Kya!”

Eco cried out softly as she held onto Ash. Tristan claws dug into the ground at the spot that Ash and Eco originally were. Accompanied by the loud noise, a cloud of dust was kicked up and obscured their vision, like a grey veil all around them, Tristan’s figure appeared from the smoke once more.

“Oya oya, the title of the ‘Avalon Knight’ is rather grand, but is this all the strength you have?”

Oscar’s face revealed a cruel smile.

“Fufu, can you evade the next strike? Go, Tristan!”

Tristan roared, and stared ferociously at Ash. Ash gritted his teeth. If Oscar really did have an interest in Eco, it was fair to say that he didn't plan to take any lives.

''—This guy, is he just playing with us…?''

Tristan let out a deafening roar, and then lifted its front limb up high again. Its front limb blocked out the sun, which caused Ash’s and Eco’s entire bodies to be enveloped by its shadow.

“What is it? If you don’t try to escape seriously, I really will have him stomp down, you know?”

Just when Oscar’s face showed such a malicious smile, and his condescending arrogance was projected onto Ash—

“—Leave this to me!”

All of a sudden, a crimson red fireball flew straight towards them, and grazed Tristan’s belly. Seeing that its silver fur was charred slightly, Tristan’s face became resentful, and raised its head to look up at a point in the sky.

“Rebecca-san!”

Ash cried out loudly.

Wearing an Ark which glowed with crimson light, Rebecca rode atop the Maestro Cú Chulainn as she appeared in the sky above the Academy. She hadn't used a saddle, and was simply standing majestically on top of her Pal’s head — although that dragon riding posture was the same as Oscar’s, the decisive difference between the two was truly the presence or absence of an Ark. After Rebecca descended graciously while riding on top of Cú Chulainn, she sent a sharp gaze towards Oscar.

“You do know that fighting is prohibited at school don’t you, Oscar?”

“Are you trying to bind me by relying on the school rules?”

“…I’m curious, you don’t really think that you can defeat me in a fight, do you?”

The edge of Oscar’s mouth twitched, and he made a sly smile at the frowning Rebecca.

“The answer is YES, the legend of the strongest Rebecca Randall, I’ll end that today!”

At the same time that Oscar proudly made such a declaration, Tristan’s roar resounded throughout the sky.

“What is this…?”

After Ash instinctively said that, Oscar declared as if he stood upon a divine pedestal

“I command you in the name of Oscar Brailsford! Present the Ark that you have created to me!”

Oscar’s entire body was instantly enveloped by a golden light, followed by a dazzling flash. The blinding flash of light forced Ash and Eco to squint their eyes as they raised their arms to cover their sight. After the light receded and their vision returned to normal, Ash saw…

“You can all see right now, that I am a true Arch Dragonar.”

After Oscar spoke with words filled with self-confidence, an eloquent smile appeared on his face. The Ark that appeared similar to a lion’s fur was majestic, and the armaments on the upper and lower body were all golden in colour. Gold was the representative colour of the Chevron Kingdom, moreover, the emblem of the Chevron Royal Family was a lion. Tristan probably went by Oscar’s origins and ambitions to create this majestic Ark.

“Now Rebecca, do not forget the agreement we had between us — if I win, you have to become bride!”

“What? There was something like that?”

Ash was greatly surprised, and couldn't help saying that. Challenging Rebecca itself was a foolish decision, but he actually wanted to take her as a bride for marriage! The confidence of the man in front of him was immense, and Ash felt amazed by it.

“Did you think that you could defeat me with that improvised Ark alone, Oscar?”

Rebecca displayed a calm expression in her eyes, and undermined the enemy’s confidence and pride first.

“That’s what I like about you, Rebecca! Because you’re such a strong woman, you make my fighting spirit burn even stronger!”

That sentence became the signal for the start of the fight. Cú Chulainn and Tristan both responded to their master’s fighting spirit as they unleashed ground-shaking roars, and began flapping their wings. The two crimson and golden Arch Dragonars soared upwards with a whirlwind from their flapping wings.

Upon hearing the commotion, teaching staff, guards, and those who were working in the Dragon Houses all gathered in the Academy grounds, but everyone simply looked up at the sky, and watched.

“Incredible! They’re in a completely different league from the other students!”

Ash also looked up at the sky, unable to conceal his surprised expression. At an altitude of approximately one hundred metres above the grounds of Dragonar Academy, Rebecca and Oscar were engaged in an intense aerial battle.

“—Ash-sama, you know Oscar-sama's nickname?”

At that time, Cosette had calmly walked over to Ash’s side.

“Cosette-san!? What happened to that maid with the eyepatch from before?”

“Are you talking about Celes-sama? She’s over there.”

After Cosette exposed a splendid smile, she turned around to look behind her. Ash followed her gaze, and was almost frightened to that point that he almost fell backwards. Celeste lay on the ground in a corner of the Academy like a caterpillar. Her body was convulsing, and foam was forming at her mouth.

“Cosette-san, did you do that to her?”

“It’s embarrassing.”

Cosette held her cheek with her right hand, and her face became completely red. Ash vowed to himself that he would never go against Cosette.

“Oh yeah! Is it alright to leave Hime-sama there? There’s also Lucca!”

“I already took both of them to the infirmary just then.”

“You’re way too fast!”

Ash was stunned. Ash turned to look at another corner of the Academy; neither Lancelot or Gawain had anyone on their backs. Cosette’s trained reactions caused Ash to gulp.

“Anyway, what was Oscar’s nickname?”

Thinking about the topic from before that was unfinished, Ash asked.

“Oscar-sama's nickname is — The Baron of Sonic.”

“I see. In terms of speed alone, it feels as if he’s faster than Rebecca-san.”

Ash looked up at the sky, and felt convinced. At that time, Eco nervously tugged on Ash’s sleeve.

“Hey, there’s no need to worry right? That guy called Oscar seems to covet my power…and if Rebecca is beaten by him…”

Ash placed his hand on top of Eco’s head, and tried to appease her mood/emotions.

“Don’t worry. Although I just let Rebecca-san go out to rescue/save us, I’ll definitely risk my life to protect Eco next time.”

“Wh…!”

Seeing that Ash declared that he wanted to protect her so bluntly, Eco blushed.

“But I also need Eco to help me. After all, as a Dragonar without a Pal, I’m no different to an ordinary soldier.”

Perhaps because she was so embarrassed, it looked as if her face was the colour of a rose, and Eco turned her head to the other side.

“I know that! Y-You should remember this; having the opportunity to wear the Ark that I make is the highest honour for a Dragonar!”

“Unfortunately, it’s just an unfinished product.”

<nowiki>“WHAT DID YOU SAY ~~~~~~!”</nowiki>

Eco stomped her feet with a seemingly unstoppable anger. In fact, the Ark that Eco made was incomplete. Because there was no fixed outer appearance, the sensation could be described as simply wearing the armour, and it was like having a layer of magic over one’s body. Even though it was an incomplete Ark, it was possible to use the Ark weapon which was installed simply by wearing it — Holy Sword Excalibur, as well as various other pre-installed equipment which was worth relying on. More importantly, for the Dragon Race to present an Ark to their master was a proof of their loyalty and love. Because, only when a dragon became the most cherished in their master’s mind would an Ark be born—

“If I could do it, why wouldn't I immediately want to create a perfect Ark for you!? But, I’m just a young dragon, my knowledge and skills are also very lacking—”

Ash made a wry smile, and placed his hand over Eco’s head.

“Sorry, Eco. I didn't have the intention of looking down on you, it’s fine as long as you work hard according to your own habits.”

<nowiki>“~~~~~!”</nowiki>

Having her head pat by Ash, Eco turned around with red eyes. At that time, a sudden loud noise shook the atmosphere. A gust of strong wind gushed through Eco’s long hair. Cosette was also holding her skirt down, while resisting the strong wind. Soon after that, particles of ash drifted down from the sky. With a feeling of disbelief, Ash looked at the Maestro which fell from the sky, down to the grounds of the Academy from afar. Eco and Cosette also gasped. Having fallen from the sky, it was actually Cú Chulainn, covered in wounds. The surrounding earth that it had impacted became like a crater.

“This can’t be real…Rebecca-san was defeated?”

Ash couldn't believe what he was seeing with his own eyes, and muttered softly. Rebecca was lying on top of Cú Chulainn’s head, and her Ark seemed abnormal. The armour had been damaged, and her skin underneath it was exposed. It was a harsh scene which made people look away, it was as if a delicate red rose had been instantly destroyed.

“—I’m so disappointed in you, Rebecca.”

While carrying Oscar, Tristan gracefully descended from the sky.

“When you were fighting against me, you were always very careful so as not to allow the fight damage the surroundings, right?”

“Yes. It looks like I underestimated your strength, and I didn't think that you’d already reached this level.”

Despite her body being badly injured, Rebecca remained calm.

“Well. Have you finally decided to be my woman?”

“No, that is impossible.”

“You rejected that too quickly!”

It was unexpected that Oscar would show such a serious expression as he retorted.

“For me, the throne of a princess isn't comfortable to sit on at all. Please understand that, Oscar.”

“You ask for too much. The most suitable one to warm up the throne of the Chevron Princess is really none other than your perfect ass. The throne of the princess must also be quite willing to accept your ample and tight ass.”

While saying so, a sarcastic smile emerged on Oscar’s face.

“The talk aside, it looks to me as if your Ark is about to shatter, and Cú Chulainn has already depleted its magic. Even then, you’d only be able to take one hit at best, right?”

“If that’s what you think, why don’t you come and try it?”

“Fu. That’s certainly like my woman.”

Having just had a smile on his face a moment ago, Oscar suddenly revealed an expression of dissatisfaction.

“Honestly, since a while ago, I thought that your magic spear Gáe Bolg was very strange. Today, I definitely have to break that hateful magic spear in half! Fly, Tristan!”

Oscar issued an order to Tristan, and then quickly ascended into the sky.

“We’re going up, Cú Chulainn!”

Rebecca also soared up into the sky with Cú Chulainn. Both people exchanged forth their Ark weapons at the same time.

“Appear! The unflowing magic bow — Failnaught!”

Oscar summoned a bow that shone with a brilliant golden light.

The bow and arrow which were composed of magic appeared out of thin air when he began to pull back the bowstring.

“Appear! The certain hit magic spear — Gáe Bolg!”

On the other hand, Rebecca had summoned the magic spear Gáe Bolg which glowed red. As soon as Rebecca held it in her right hand, it immediately released an incredible amount of magic energy. The Ark weapons of those two people released resonating sounds, as the hot air around them entwined. Ash immediately stood in front of Eco, and protected her from the roaring winds that were billowing. Eco also calmly held onto Ash’s hand, and tightly intertwined her fingers with his. This response made Ash surprised. He turned to look over his shoulder, and saw Eco with her head down, seemingly shy, but she still continued to hold Ash’s hand tightly. Despite the critical situation, Ash couldn't stop his face from becoming very hot.

“—Magic bow Failnaught. I have also once heard of its power. It’s said that it’s certain to hit, and that it has never missed. Precisely because it’s a bow that will not create any flow or current…it’s called ‘unflowing’.”

After hearing Cosette’s explanation, Ash recalled a certain thing.

“According to that, its ability is very similar to that of Rebecca-san's Gáe Bolg. It is the certain hit spear.”

“Yes. Both sides belong to the category of weapons which interfere with one’s ‘fate’.”

“I see! Oscar said before that he thought Gáe Bolg was very strange, so it was actually because it has a similar nature to Failnaught…”

The instant that Ash murmured that, Rebecca and Oscar released their certain-hit attacks.

“Become my bride, Rebecca!”

At the same time that Oscar said that, he let go of the bowstring.

“If you can defeat me, I might be willing to consider it for a second!”

When Rebecca threw the magic spear, a streak of light like lightning appeared, magic and a surge of emotions erupted; a fierce collision occurred in front of Rebecca and Oscar. The magic weapons of both sides began competing with each other, and even the air vibrated. It appeared to be an equal show of offense and defense, but—

“You lose, Oscar!”

Rebecca suddenly shouted out.

“You’re still trying to act brave at this point? Rebecca Randall, you've actually gone down to such a level!”

Rebecca ignored Oscar’s ridicule, and then proudly declared

“I command you in the name of Rebecca Randall! Cú Chulainn — reveal the true form of the Ark that you have presented me!”

“What did you say…!?”

At the same time that Oscar was taken aback, Rebecca's Ark began to change. Various parts of the armour released a bright red light, and began to change shape. After the helmet around her head finished its transformation, the shoulders, breastplate, and the armour around her torso also began to change into a new shape. Not only that, a red cloak which fluttered in the wind appeared behind her.

“How is this possible!? Could it be that you were holding back the whole time? You fox!”

“This is it, Oscar! Magic spear Gáe Bolg — [{{Furigana|Ring of Fate|Wheel of Fortune}}]!”

Then, the magic spear changed in accordance with Rebecca's command. Accompanied by a heavy metallic sound, the magic spear began to expand and lengthen, and became a new part.

“You forced me to use my special skill, so you've got some ability!”

At the same time that Rebecca called out, a surge of magic more powerful than ever before radiated out.

“What kind of joke is this! If I can’t even take you for myself, what right do I have to sit on the throne!”

The two sources of light impacted each other in mid-air — one side was bright red, and the other side was golden. The magic that Rebecca had released was pressed/pushed in front of Oscar’s eyes, but he also began to push back.

“That guy is also formidable! Rebecca-san has already used her full power, yet he’s still able to turn the tide back!”

Ash was sweating profusely, and Cosette spoke with a solemn expression

“This situation is not good. The certain hit magic spear and the unflowing magic bow…these two weapons both have the effect of ‘piercing’ first and the cause of the ‘attack’ afterwards. If both of them continue this senseless confrontation, they might even lose their lives.”

“But could Rebecca-san not have realised this fact?”

“Rebecca-sama certainly knows in her mind. But, I’m afraid that Rebecca-sama has no way to stop the fate which is held in those magic weapons from happening—”

Before waiting for Cosette to finish speaking, Ash quickly turned towards Eco.

“Eco, bring out the Ark that you've created, please!”

“Hold on, what do you want to do?”

Eco seemed to frown, and she watched Ash’s face.

“I need to use Excalibur to break their attacks. Before the magic spear and magic bow actualise their fate of death, I’ll destroy them first!”

“Are you sure you can do that?”

“The problem isn't whether I can do it, but I have to gamble on that anyway!”

“…I understand.”

Eco clenched her fist in front of her chest as if she had made up her mind. She closed her eyes, and then began to chant the spell to summon the Ark.

“Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes…”

Ash simply stared. Before she was only able to recite the chant while stuttering, but now Eco had memorised it and could recite fluently. She was also able to courageously call out the final word of the chant as the end of the spell.

“—Espolón!”

The armour which contained holy magical energy latched onto Ash’s body. A silver light suddenly burst out, and enveloped Ash’s entire body. The <Seikoku> on his left arm became hot.

“Uh…!”

The <Seikoku> emitted heat which almost burnt his skin, expanded in the blink of an eye, and spread to Ash’s whole body. The current phenomenon was the same as that time when he repulsed Mordred in Ansarivan city. While his consciousness immersed into a dim light, a sense of warmth entered Ash’s body. It was like the warmth of Eco’s body. Logically, the Ark that Eco created should appear like that, but Ash couldn't see any change in the clothes that he was wearing. Aside from the <Seikoku> which had spread to cover his entire body, the external appearance looked just like any other male student. A young dragon was still a young dragon, she had gone to a lot of effort to build the Ark, and was still unable to give the Ark a clear outline, but Ash could feel that he had obtained her strength.

''—The Ark that Eco created for me is now protecting my body.''

“Haa, haa…what? I set a record for the fastest time yet!”

Having depleted her magic, Eco was somewhat breathless, but still smiled confidently at Ash. What Eco said was right, it was the first time that she had built the Ark so quickly.

“Thank you, Eco.”

After Ash patted Eco’s head, he gazed sharply towards the sky above. He then used the power of the Ark to leap into the sky and ascend.

===Part 11===
Looking down at the Academy which seemed like a miniature model from high up in the sky, Rebecca began to feel anxious again. The power of two people were currently even against each other, and it seemed as if the result could only be a loss for both sides. Just when she gritted her teeth, she was surprised to notice that a massive amount of magic was gradually closing in on her.

“Uuoooooooooohhhh!”

Ash shouted out while carrying a large sword. What was most surprising was that his <Seikoku> covered his entire body. Although Rebecca had heard Ash talk about such a thing in the past, it was the first time that she had seen it with her own eyes. While Ash approached rapidly, he began to unsheathe a holy sword — Excalibur. He first turned a sharp gaze towards Rebecca.

“Regardless of whether it pierces the fate of Rebecca-san!”

He then quickly looked at Oscar.

“Or pierces the fate of Oscar!”

Ash focused an overwhelming amount of magic onto the blade of the sword, and held it up high.

“I will sever it apart!”

The sword flashed. The holy sword released a loud noise as it struck the point where both sides had clashed. The sudden power intervened, and its magic appeared as if it would explode in order to force the attack to lose their targets, but in the next instant, Excalibur released a dazzling light. Rebecca whispered in marvel of the scene. The magic, which looked like it was about to explode was completely absorbed by the silver blade of Excalibur. Ash briskly, yet calmly turned around in mid-air, and then leaped onto Tristan’s head. The tip of Excalibur was pointed at Oscar’s chest.

“Would you like to have a fight against the ‘Avalon Knight’, Oscar?”

The expression in Ash’s eyes and the tone of his words caused Rebecca, who was on the side to shudder.

—Dokun!

Rebecca's heartbeat suddenly accelerated. She had never had such a heart-moving experience in her life.

“Kuh…I’ll let you guys go for today! But remember this, I will never give up on Rebecca and Eco!”

After saying that, Oscar clung onto Tristan’s curved horns. Tristan understood its master’s intentions, and immediately swung its head about fiercely.

“Uwah!”

Having not paid much attention to defense, Ash was easily tossed into the air.

“Ash!”

Rebecca anxiously cried out while looking on.

“I-I’m fine…”

Ash managed to suspend himself in mid-air. Although it was not possible to see its form, the Ark that Eco had created seemed as if it was still protecting Ash. Eco firmly believed in Ash’s thoughts, which left a memorable impression on Rebecca. At the same time, after thinking about what would happen after Eco finished the appearance of the Ark, wondering about how heroically Ash would glow, it made her heart leap. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Oscar ordered Tristan to fly, and then disappeared into a distant edge on the other side of the sky.

“Wheel of Fortune ~A.SB.1365.9~” is closed.

<noinclude>

==References and Translation Notes==
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Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 1

2018-10-22T08:55:55Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==Chapter 1 - The return of Rebecca Randall==
===Part 1===
In the dragon workshop, a special realm where dragons made their creations. Many creations of the ancestors were hung on the walls and the floor was like a checker board with black and white tiles. On the ceiling was a chandelier made from bright dragon crystal shining brightly.

“Ouch!”

Suddenly, someone groaned in the mysterious space. The person frowning in the middle of the space was none other than Eco. Right behind her stood Navi with a whip.

“Can’t you concentrate?”

With a silverish pink hair, rubies like eyes and snow like white skin, Navi's features were similar to Eco’s. Just that she had a more mature body and pointy horns compare to Eco whose horns were round, just like a young dragon. The most obvious difference was their breasts. Navi's would shake once every few moments while Eco’s looked just like a washboard.

“It is not like I don’t want to!”

Eco was now sitting with her legs crossed. It was similar to the monks of the east when they meditate. According to Navi, that was the best way to concentrate. Eco with an unsatisfied look on her face could no longer keep her position.

''-*Crack*.''

Navi swung her whip.

“Ouch!”

Eco felt a jab of pain on her shoulder. Even though she was in her spirit form, she could still feel the pain.

“Hey… That hurts!”

“This is all for the training. Didn't you want to use that bracelet?”

“About that…”

Eco was feeling down.

===Part 2===

It had been a month since Eco started training with Navi. She had been training nonstop for a month without rest for three to five hours a day. All the hard work was for her to make good use of the Avalon Bracelet that Mother Dragon gave her.

''I will never allow anyone to use my powers as Avalon’s Daughter ever again…'' That was Eco’s resolution. Right now, the use of her bracelet was to only control her transformation. But after the training, she should be able to use it as a device to control her transformation. Currently, Eco still wasn't able to control her transformation. But Navi told her that she could freely Dragonise or Humanise with the use of the bracelet.

For the time being, Eco was grateful to have Navi. Without Navi's knowledge, Eco wouldn't even know where to start her training from. Mother Dragon also probably knew that Navi was always by Eco and that’s why she had never further elaborated on the training.

“Are you still angry about what happened on “That Night”?”

''-That Night.''

Eco’s shoulders trembled just as Navi mentioned about it.

“Exactly! Silvia she… Right in front of me… She ''did that thing'' to Ash!”

“Haa… How many times had I heard you grumbling about it. Even callus is starting to grow in my ears. What happened was Silvia confessed to Ash and kissed him, right?”

“I won’t forgive her!”

“For the Imperial Princess of the Avalon’s holy dragons' imperial family to become jealous for only a mere kiss, it is a disgrace to the family.”

“I am not jealous! This is pure anger!”

“Well, isn't jealousy the source of your anger?”

“Urgh…”

Navi sighed when she saw Eco turned speechless.

“Since this is what had turned out, I will pass this information to you. This happened before the wise dragon magic Albion changes the reproductive system of the dragons…”

“I have no interest in the past.”

Eco refuted but Navi ignored her by continuing.

“Polygamy was common among the dragons.”

Eco’s body had gotten hot the moment she grasped the meaning.
[[Image:SnRK V06 030.jpg|thumb]]

“You mean…”

“That’s right. A male dragon will form a pledge with numerous female dragons.”

“That’s downright low!”

“Ara, even the nobles who had a legal wife in the Chevron Kingdom located next to us at the same time are surrounded by numerous mistresses. Even the Chevron King, Zacherias III had hundreds of mistresses.”

“…What are you trying to imply?”

“I won’t say a thing if you are trying to become Ash’s lawful wife. However if you are getting angry every time because he had some business with the other girls…”

Navi crossed her arms and tried lifting her breast casually as if she was trying to point it out. She then took a look at Eco’s breasts and sneered.

“Isn't your worth as a woman is as small as ''your breasts''?”

“Arrrrrrrghhhhh-------------------------------------!”

Eco’s scream was echoing around the mysterious dragon workshop.

===Part 3===
It is almost the end of the month of Virgo. There was only about ten days left in the two months long summer holiday. It was almost time for the students to return to the school dorms. The quite dorm which felt like a ghost house probably would be able to return to its usual noisy state by the end of the month. Ash was passing time in his renovated room.

“What a peaceful day.”

Ash mumbled while he was looking at the flowerbed through his window. His days of trouble had continued since Eco’s birth. This was the first time he actually appreciated the peaceful days.

“Mm---------------------!”

However, it was different for Eco. After her training in the Dragon Workshop had ended and had returned to the real world, she was suddenly in a bad temper. She most probably still held a grudge on what happened ‘That Night’.

“Arrrgh! I can’t stand this anymore!”

Eco was kicking around on the bed. Her slender looking bare legs made Ash’s heart skipped a beat.

“Hey, Eco. Shouldn't you calm down?”

“It is not like I can control my anger!”

She sat up with her face red from anger. Her right fist was trembling. On her right wrist was the Avalon’s Bracelet that Mother Dragon gave her. Somehow, it seemed like it lacked luster.

“Haa. I didn't know Eco was the type to hold a grudge…” mumbled Ash.

“What did you say!?”

Eco immediately gave him a sharp glare. Even though it was from a beautiful girl, the glare itself was terrifying. Not to mention that Eco was a dragon. The sharpness of her glare was similar to the glare of a dragon.

“N-No. Nothing at all.”

Ash shook his head in terror. Ash could still vaguely recall the things that happened on ‘That Night’ that had caused Eco’s ill temper.

===Part 4===
It happened about a month ago. Because of Mother Dragon’s request, Ash, Eco and Silvia went visiting Albion Forest’s Novitiate. On the day where Eco received the magic tool, Avalon’s Bracelet from Mother Dragon to control her Dragonization, Silvia had confessed to Ash on that night itself. Then she robbed off Ash’s kiss. It all happened in an instant and Silvia was not acting like her usual self. Ash’s stomach started hurting whenever he thought about the return journey from the novitiate on the second day. Ash was sitting in the warzone between Silvia and Eco while they were on Lancelot’s back…

===Part 5===
“-Hey, are you even listening to me!?”

Ash returned to his sense after being shouted at by Eco.

“… I am listening.”

Eco walked towards Ash after she jumped down from the bed. She was looking at Ash with her puppy eyes. Her ruby eyes bear a hint of tears. This was how she looked like even though she was angry just moments ago. Ash felt as if his heart was being grabbed. Their shoulders touched each other first. Their faces were so close that they could feel each other’s breath. Eco then tried her best to express herself:

“You’re… You’re mine! That’s why I will transform and crush you if you keep on thinking about Silvia!”

Eco touched her Avalon Bracelet when she spoke. Her expression changed from sad to an evil looking face.

“You shouldn't be able to control your transformation yet, right?”

“Want to try it? I had been training for a whole month you know.”

But those words were just to intimidate Ash. In fact, she was facing difficulties in her training. She still couldn't control her transformation without the bracelet. Those were the words told by Navi to Ash a few days before. That being said, Eco was seriously going to remove her bracelet. But as her owner, Ash could not allow her to do as she please. Ash told her with a serious look.

“Eco, stop what you are doing right now. Do you want to disappoint Mother Dragon?”

“T-That…”

Eco felt guilty. Ash’s words were really effective.

“Hey, Eco, please listen to what I am going to say carefully.”

Ash placed both his hands on Eco’s shoulders. After being stared at, Eco blushed. Her cute look almost had Ash lose his self control.

“I too am surprised about princess-sama's actions. Even I have not yet mentally recovered from that shock… Anyway, that kiss was unavoidable, please try to understand.”

“Even so, I am still angry! Since… That kiss is unavoidable, you should be able to forget about it. If that’s the case, I will forgive you!”

Ash turned speechless. In times like this, a skillful guy would definitely answer with ‘I had already forgotten about it’. However, Ash was far from skillful and he was bad at lying too. His memories about Silvia’s hot breathe, her soft lips and her honey like scent were deeply engraved into his mind. Eco had gotten angry again when she saw Ash stuttering.

“As expected, you still remember them!”

“No… But no matter what, she is still a princess. Being confessed by a princess…? Isn't it hard to forget? Rather than that, isn't it rude
to princess-sama if I forget about it?”

“Urgh…!”

The next moment, Eco was clenching her teeth while tears started flowing from her eyes. Ash begun to panicked.

“Uwaa! Sorry, Eco!”

Ash tried to pat her on her head. But his hand was pushed off.

“Eco?”

Eco was clenching both her fist.

“Even I myself…. Wanted to kiss you at that time!”

“Eh!?”

It was an unexpected confession. Just as Ash was surprised, Eco leaped on to her bed. She then grabbed on to her stuffed toy and covered her head with a blanket. Then, she remained motionless like a stone.

''-That stuffed toy initially belonged to Silvia.''

Even after she knew that, Eco never had the intention to return it to its owner. On the other hand, she treated it like her child. She was actually using it to protest against Silvia.

“Hey, Eco…?”

However, she didn't reply. Even after he tried to lift the blanket slowly, she didn't do anything to stop him.

“Could it be…”

Ash realized what was happening after he saw her sleeping face. Rather than sleeping, Eco was actually in her spirit form.

“…So she is at the Dragon Workshop again.”

Ash sighed and sat on the bed.

“That being said…”

Ash recalled the moment before being confessed by Silvia. He had obviously forgotten about the moments before Silvia appeared on that night. The shock from Silvia’s actions was too great from him to digest them. He remembered that he and Eco were having a good, calm and sweet atmosphere. They were just a step from kissing…

“Argh..!”

On that night, Eco was on the verge of kissing Ash. However, Silvia’s sudden appearance had interrupted her chance. That being said, Eco’s anger towards Silvia may be worse than Ash could even imagine.

“What should I do to calm her down…?”

“Isn't Eco upset because of that kiss? Why won't you try forcing a kiss on her? Who knows if it is the key to solve everything.”

“No, no, no… It just couldn't be this easy… Uwaaaa!”

Ash almost fell when he tried to turn around. It was Rebecca Randall who was sitting on the window frame with her red hair waving in the wind. Her dazzling appearance suited her name Scarlet Empress well.

''How long has she been there…?''

Outside the window stood Cú Chulainn, Rebecca's Pal. It was well known as the academy’s strongest and most famous Maestro. But in front of Rebecca, it was like a quiet cat.

“Huhu. It had been a long time, Ash.”

Rebecca with a devilish smile on her face changed the way she crossed her legs. Ash immediately averted his eyes.

“Back to the topic, who would have thought your relationship with Eco and Silvia would progress greatly during my holiday in my hometown.”

“Wha… How come you know about it!?”

Ash was shocked.

“Just days before, I received a letter from Cosette. All the interesting stuff that had happened around you were well written in it. I read about your arrival at Albion Forest’s Novitiate and your meeting with Mother Dragon. Huhu, it is like a romance novel. Do you want me to read it to you?”

Rebecca took out a cute looking letter from her uniform’s pocket.

“I strongly reject!”

“Aaah… By the way, I was surprised that you met Silvia on your Orphan Ceremony when you are seven. Who would expect that she would confess and kiss you. That doesn't sounds like her.”

“Rebecca-san, please… Speak no more…”

Rebecca continued to speak as if she was toying with Ash:

“That’s right, I was even told that you even exchanged kisses with Eco… Huh, what’s wrong, Ash?”

“What else can I do? My strength had reached zero thanks to you.”

Ash was sitting on the floor with both his arms around his knees. He was totally spiritless.

“Haha… Sorry. It is just that I am happy to see you after a long time and I just had the urge to tease you.”

After Rebecca gave him a wry smile, she left the window frame and walked towards Ash. Right after Ash noticed a fragrant scent, the sunlight was hidden behind Rebecca. Rebecca's shadow had overshadowed Ash.

“…!”

Ash’s body immediately froze. Rebecca's breasts had his entire sight covered. They had her uniform stretched to its limit and they looked soft. Just like how a person hugged a puppy, Rebecca embraced Ash. He could feel Rebecca's body heat and her fragrance through her breast. Ash’s mind had gone blank.

“What's wrong? Do you feel better now?”

The sound that brought Ash back to his sense was a voice like a gentle mother.

“Y-Yeah.”

Rather than feeling better, Ash was actually in a shock. He was truly excited from being embraced by the Scarlet Empress.

''Did I just use up my entire life worth of luck just now?''... Ash was worried about it. Rebecca released Ash. Then, she spoke to the blank wall even though there was no one.

“…Did you had that scene recorded… Cosette-san?”

“Of course. Huhuhu...”

The voice that came from the ceiling almost made Ash’s heart stop beating.

“Wha…!”

He saw a maid on the ceiling when he looked upwards. How much training had she gone through to hide her presence… Ash had a hard time figuring it out. Cosette who witnessed the entire event jumped from the ceiling without even feeling sorry about it. After she landed, she gave a graceful bow.

“Right now, Ash-sama is a potential candidate to become princess-sama's bridegroom… I would do anything…”

“Hold on, you are trespassing!”

“It is alright. It is legal as long as I am not seen ♪.”

Cosette said while she twinkled an eye. Though Ash was almost entranced by her mischievous looks, but he just could not back down.

“It is no use even if you act cute!”

“Ara, it is a pity. Does it meant that Ash-sama like perverted girls more than cute ones?”

Sweet scent emerged from Cosette’s wet lips. In just a split second, Cosette looked a lot more adult like.

“What are you talking about!?”

“Huhu. I am just joking. That’s right, about princess-sama's confession…”

Ash began to panic when Cosette changed to the main topic.

“This is from me… Please act like what you usually do in front of princess-sama.”

“What I usually do?”

“Exactly. Judging from princess-sama's behavior…. She would run away from embarrassment when she remembers about that confession and that kiss when she meets you. Also, you don’t have to give her a reply immediately.”

''You don’t have to give her a reply immediately-'' Ash gave a sigh of relieve once he heard about it. He was always worried about not replying Silvia but he now knew that his answer was not at all important.

“I understand.”

Cosette smiled in satisfaction once she heard his reply. But just as she was leaving, she was stopped by Rebecca.

“By the way, Cosette-san, there will be a meeting for all student council members at one in the afternoon tomorrow. Please inform Silvia.”

“Certainly. Then, I shall take my leave.”

Cosette bowed and leave. Then, Rebecca glared at Ash.

“Ash, you too must attend. I came here to tell you this.”

“I understand. But what about those who are still on their way home?”

“Don’t worry. Regarding that, I had sent them a mail to their home to inform them about it. They will probably arrive by noon, tomorrow. Even Jessica had departed earlier than me just to meet you.”

“I see, she hasn't changed at all…”

Ash had the chills when he thought about Jessica. Right now, she was probably riding on her Hydra Rhiannon that was swimming its best along the flow. Even so, Rebecca was the first one to arrive. Ash was truly amazed by its, by Cú Chulainn's speed.

“By the way, Ash.”

Rebecca spoke in a serious tone.

“There will be an important job next month. As the student council president, I don’t want to see student council’s job being affected by your personal matter.”

The next month is the month of Libra. Ash immediately figure out what the important student council’s job was.

“Is it the Libra Dragon Riding Festival?”

“You are only half correct.”

Rebecca crossed her arms in front of Ash who was confused.

“I see. You had totally forgotten about it. This Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy is going to celebrate its five hundredth anniversary. To be more specific, we are celebrating it next month.”

“S-Sorry. I totally forgot about it.”

''Five hundredth anniversary-''

“Ash, listen carefully. This year’s Libra Riding Festival will be changed to Ansarivan Five Hundredth Anniversary. It will be done grandly. It will be an honour for me to witness it as the student council president.”

The way Rebecca declared made her looked a lot more magnificent in Ash’s eyes

===Part 6===
“Aaaaargh! I can’t believe this!”

Eco who had entered the Dragon Workshop had borrowed Navi's power to look into the real world. A single wall had transformed into a screen and Ash was shown on it. Eco who was staring on that wall the entire time stomped around once she saw Rebecca left.

“This time, it was Rebecca who had turned mellow. Don’t tell me that even she had her eyes on Ash!?”

“Huhu… Who knows if she would become a powerful rival to Princess Silvia.”

Navi who was standing behind Eco smiled.

“Don’t tell me that… You are enjoying this!?”

“Ara, is that how I look to you?”

In regards to Eco who pointed her finger at her, Navi replied with a smile.

"The Bracelet of Avalon ~A.S.B.1365.9~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Prologue

2018-10-22T08:31:13Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring

==Prologue==
The continent of Ark Strada. Looking down towards it from the sky; It was shaped like a dragon spreading its wings; On it were five forces that were kept in balance.

'''I''' The dragon’s wing ~ Holy Espada Agency.

'''II''' The dragon’s body ~ Chevron Kingdom.

'''III''' The dragon’s jaw ~ Zepharos Empire.

'''IV''' The dragon’s tail ~ Labrock Trade Union.

Also,

'''V''' The dragon’s heart ~ Lautreamont Knight Country

===Part 1===
As if it was trying to avoid any humans, a four-wheeled vehicle drawn by Asia also known as the dragon carriage that was famous in Lautreamont Knight Country had arrived at the rear gate.

“Get in the carriage! Quick! I warn you, the journey till Ansarivan will be guarded by Mounties. <ref>騎竜部隊. Literally means dragon riding troops. I will put it as Mounties as of the Canadian police force. </ref>You better not try anything funny.”

A soldier was urging Anya with a stern tone. He wanted to send her off as soon as possible. Her opponent was just a mere soldier of the Knight Country. The normal Anya would've chosen to settle it by swinging her whip. Since her handcuffs had been removed and there were only four soldiers, they were like logs to Anya who had mastered the use of a whip.

“…I understand.”

Anya tried to resist the urge. Right now, Anya didn't even have the right to resist. She, who was caught as a terrorist would normally undergo harsh interrogations to force out information from her and after everything was over, would be sent to the gallows. <ref>It was never specified whether it was to be hung or beheaded.</ref>Lautreamont Knight Country which placed an emphasis on the codes of knights had highly developed sets of laws. However, the way they treated terrorists was no different from the other countries. Anya had prepared herself mentally while she was in the cold cell. But she was deeply shaken when she saw the face of the first man who visited her. That man had the same face as Milgauss that Anya swore her loyalty too.

''-Julius Lautreamont.''

That was his name.

===Part 2===

After that, the treatment that she received changed drastically. First, she was released from the dungeon and was relocated to the guest room of the castle. The person in charge of watching her was Avdocha the Convicted, the person responsible for capturing Anya. Anya wondered if Avdocha was confident in her skill since she did had Anya’s handcuff removed. No, rather than saying watching over her, Avdocha had always treated her gently. But Anya could never bring herself to ask her why. Later, Veronica Lautreamont, the Iron Blood Valkyrie pleaded in her stead in the judicial department and thus Anya had escaped death. She had gone through surprisingly mild interrogations for a span of two months. For Anya who had been living in the mountains, the relaxing lifestyle in the castle was like heaven. Her interrogations with Avdocha gave her the deepest impression since she usually asked non related questions. In the end, the student restaurant, La Tene's manager bailed her out.

The problem was, Anya could never gain the trust of her people if she returned to her village because of her easy release. Everyone would be suspicious about the judicial department’s decision or at worst they would take her as a spy from the knights.

''If that’s the case, isn't it better to cut ties with your home. Furthermore, the manager had offered you a second life that is far better.'' Those were the words told to her by Avdocha. Though she missed her home, Avdocha's eyes and the manager’s smile helped her made up her mind.

“There are still many things about Avdocha that I want to know about.”

Anya mumbled while she walked towards the dragon carriage.

“… Anya, you had forgotten something.”

At that moment, she heard a familiar voice coming from behind. A young man was standing in front of her when she turned around. His hair was silver with a tuff of red hair within it and he was wearing a mask that had his entire face covered.

“Milgauss-sama… No, Jul- Urgg…”

Anya was shocked when her checks were being grabbed.

“… That name is a taboo in this castle. Do you understand?

Julius whispered into her ear and let go of his hand after she nodded.

“Erm… Why would you come here on purpose to see me off…?”

“Since it is either the Paladin or I who had the most free time in the entire castle, Avdocha wanted me to pass ''this'' to you.”

Julius smiled and handed her a bag. It was a smile that she had never seen Milgauss doing.

“Can I open it now?”

“Sure.”

Anya took out the thing from the bag gently.

“This is…!”

She gasped. It was the muffler with red and yellow stripes that she had worn since she was born.

“Isn't this an important item from your hometown?”

Anya was almost in tears while she buried her face into the soft cloth.

“But it is alright for me to take it? Since I had cut ties with…”

“That is the reason why you should. For me who once left behind my home and had wandered around in the Empire… In the end, I had return for a certain reason. It isn't easy to forget about our home.”

“Thank you very much.”

Anya put on her muffler. It felt as if a burden was lifted once she knew that she didn't have to forget about her hometown. At that instant, Anya thought of a question. She then mustered all her courage and asked since she had a feeling that he won’t be able to meet with Julius again.

“Erm… Can I ask you a question?”

“Yes?”

“Is the Milgauss-sama whom I respect no longer in your body?”

“Aah. That seems to be the case. It… Mordred had left my body. Mordred should be wandering around the world in her spirit form right now.”

“To me, I still couldn't bring myself to believe that Milgauss-sama is an evil dragon…”

“I am the one who was actually surprised that Mordred took you in as its right hand man.”

“That fellow always bears the urge to destroy as the Nehalennia's dark dragons’ king. But she had always treated you gently. She definitely never sees you as a pawn. She probably saw its reflection in you that you became an orphan because of the tribal wars “

Julius eyes were staring afar blankly under the mask.

“That is why Mordred appointed you as the leader of the Tantalos. Mordred had deceived many people like the Count of the Vandenhaar borders for her own purposes but she was only nice to you. But, it is fate that the ending turned out this way.”

“Thank you. When I was still in prison… My mind was in a total mess when you first showed up. But, thanks to that, I realized that the person that I swore loyalty to isn't you, but Milgauss-sama…”

“As that feller’s ex-master, I would like to thank you. Thanks to you, she never had to be lonely.”

“…Over there, what are you doing! Can’t you be quick!”

Julius shut his mouth after the soldier shouted.

“It is almost time. I now thank you for all those times.”

“You shouldn't thank me but Ash-kun.”

Whit that, Julius smiled.

“Erm… What are you planning to do after this?”

Milgauss replied her with a wry smile.

“Now you are asking two questions.”

“S-Sorry.”

Anya was blushing.

“About that… I shouldn't stay any longer in this castle. I think I would probably take a vacation. Veronica did suggest that I take up teaching in the dragon riding academy but she did mentioned that she will burn my face to avoid recognition.”

“Huhu, I can imagine that.”

Anya met Veronica a few times during the interrogation and knew what kind of a person is the Iron Blood Valkyrie. After their laugh together, Anya stared at Milgauss's face once again.

“Please do take care.”

“Aah. Good luck to you too.”

After a bow, Anya entered the carriage. After a roar, the dragon carriage departed followed by the Mounties. Anya mumbled when she felt her chair shake:

“I wonder what Avdocha is doing right now…”

===Part 3===

Though the weather was still warm, the cool breeze bore the sign of fall. A handsome looking young nobleman with a ponytail allowed his fringes to sway along with the winds. He was wearing the dragon riding academy’s uniform with slightly altered designs that was to the liking of the nobles. The nobleman was lying on top of a hill with the view of the entire academic city, Ansarivan in front of him. Right beside him laid a dragon that was enjoying the sun. The Maestro looked majestic and scary at the same time. It had topaz coloured eyes, ram like horns and its fur was black.

Taking a closer look, the third eye on its forehead was actually a black crystal placed at the middle of its forehead. On a first glance, it was as glaring to the eyes as a drop of black ink on a piece of drawing.

“Hey! Oscar!”

At that instant, a girl wearing maid attire appeared with a grumpy looking face. Her silver coloured ponytail was swinging around as she was climbing up the hill. Her maid attire was full of black coloured accessories. It bore a different concept compare to the rest of the maid attires where its colour was a total black. And the short skirt gave her a lively impression. But the most important feature on this maid was not her black dress or her silver ponytail. It was the eye patch on her left eye. Because of that, it brought out a different kind of beauty from her.

“Take it, this is the information that you asked for.”

Her rude tone didn't make her sound like a maid.

“Thanks for the hard work, Celes.”

After he took the documents, the nobleman called Oscar started flipping through it.

“…Hmm. So Zacharias had his eyes on Eco now? He probably knew that she is the descendant of the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family.”

“Though he may be old, he is still the king of Chevron. You better not look down on that old chap’s information network.”

Oscar continued reading the documents without answering Celes.

“Huhu, so Uriel had begun to make his move. Recently, I had heard rumours about him getting his hands on Lautreamont's royal family’s second daughter.”

“In our country, that rumour had caused a huge uproar, since that was the first time Uriel announced that he had a girlfriend. Some of the nobleman’s daughters even blasted that Uriel was deceived by a bitch.”

“Huhu. Whatever it may be, nothing can be done since their opponent is Diabolic Belladonna<ref>魔性の妖花, literally means a diabolical flower or a devilish beautiful woman. </ref>, Cassandra Lautreamont. In among the four Lautreamont sisters… In among the authentic gemstones, she is the one who stood out. In another words, she is a witch.”

“That being said, knowing Uriel’s personality, he is never Cassandra’s pet. On the other hand, I don’t think he had the intention of handing over Avalon’s daughter over to Zacherias.”

“However, Celes, even I wouldn't hand Eco over to either Zacherias or Uriel."

Oscar stood up and patted his dragon.

“Eco’s awakening had given the entire world a shock. From today onwards… Even I can’t predict what is gonna happen.”

Though his words may sound serious, Oscar was smiling the entire time.

“Nevertheless, I had Tristan my best Pal. Would you stay with me even if I had to become my father and brother’s enemy?”

Maestro Tristan gave a loud roar.

“Celes, would you also stay by my side?”

Unfortunately, Celes wasn't as motivated as Tristan. She shook her ponytail and turned her head aside.

“Hey, that isn't good enough, you know… Celes.”

Celes while still looking aside, mumbled in a rotten mood:

“As fellow outcast, I will think about it.”

“That’s better.”

Oscar gave a wry smile and hopped onto Tristan. Since there was no saddle that could fit Tristan’s huge body, Oscar had to stand on its head while riding. The black crystal on Tristan’s head glimmered. Oscar then shouted towards the clear blue sky:

“I, Oscar Brailsford shall be the man who will become Chevron’s king!”

"Dawn of The New Chapter ~A.S.B.1365.9~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 6 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Epilogue

2018-10-17T07:12:03Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and some restructuring.

==Epilogue==
===Part 1===
It was already dusk when they returned to the novitiate. Ash was surprised by the amount of time it took to complete their journey. In the end, they decided to stay for another night in the novitiate. Similarly, Ash was staying in the men’s hostel while Eco and Silvia were staying at the ladies’. They had decided to look for Rex Albioni on the second day. After dinner, Ash just remembered about the Avalon’s Bracelet when he was lying on his bed. He could feel its cold metallic surface upon touching it.

“I should give this to Eco as soon as possible.”

Even so, Eco had returned to the ladies’ dormitory. This novitiate has strict rules. It would cause a misunderstanding if a guy were to be seen walking around the ladies’ dormitory after dusk. The only option left was to wait till morning. Still, it was a bracelet that Mother Dragon had entrusted to Eco. It was an important tool to control Eco’s transformation. Ash wanted to hand it to her as soon as possible.

''-Kon, kon.''

The knock on his window gave Ash a shock.

“Eco…?”

Outside the window, the silver pink coloured hair was glittering under the moonlight. With all her might, she was standing on the tips of her toes while looking into the window. Ash was glad that he was at the ground floor. If he were to be at the first or second floor, Eco would probably climb the walls to get to him.

“Why did you come at this hour?”

Eco was full of embarrassment the moment he opened the window.

“It is because I haven’t heard anything about mom from you… I had waited until Silvia slept before I sneaked out.”

“Actually… I felt the same.”

Eco was confused.

“I too have something that I wanted to tell Eco. But then you appeared in front of the window. I was surprised but at the same time I was also happy. As expected we understand each other…”

The next moment, Eco’s face was blushing deep red. Ash too had noticed that he said something embarrassing and his heart was thumping nonstop. Eco was the first to break the silence.

“R-Right at that spot… There is a beautiful corridor. If you are fine with it… Should we continue our talk there?”

“Alright, lets go then.”

Ash then hurriedly climbed through the window.

===Part 2===
Right at the center of the novitiate, there was a long corridor that was shaped like a beautiful square from an eagles view. A corridor-less novitiate would not be called a novitiate. The importance of a corridor to a novitiate should be known to all. There were many flowers blooming beautifully under the moonlight in the square garden that was surrounded by stone slabs. Apart from that, Eco was standing at the corridor glowing with a mysterious aura. Her pajamas that were made from thin silk made her exude an even more mysterious feeling. Under the bright moonlight, the outline of her body was beautifully outlined. Even the night breeze brought out the sweet scent from her hair.

“Erm… About mom… Why did she only meet you… Why not me? Is it because I had not been good?”

“That’s not it!”

“Why didn't she meet with me!?”

“That’s… Because Mother Dragon is a special being. At the same time she is your mother, she is also the mother of all dragons. She is different from a human mother.”

“That…”

“However, she is really worried about Eco. Just like a mother would be.”

“How can you be so sure?”

Ash took out the bracelet in front of the confused Eco.

“…What is that?”

“This is called Avalon’s Bracelet. It is a gift to you from Mother Dragon. Please show me your hand.”

After being urged by Ash, Eco wondered if she should choose her right or left hand. In the end, she had chosen her right hand.

“…Done.”

Eco was in joy once the saw the bracelet on her hand.

“Uwaaa…. It is beautiful!”

“I will say this beforehand. This is not just an accessory. You won’t be able to transform once you put this on. Apart from that, you can use this to learn to control your transformation. And remember, please do not take it off.”

“Not even when I am eating?”

“That’s right.”

“Even when I am bathing?”

“Of course.”

“Then…”

Eco turned around and spoke in embarrassment:

“Even when I am sleeping on the same bed with Ash?”

Ash’s heart skipped a beat from being surprised.

“E-Exactly!”

Eco turned around facing him again and smiled.

“Thank you. I will treasure…. This bracelet. I will do my training properly. When the time I become a great dragon comes… Will mom meet up with me?”

“Aah. I am sure she will.”

Just as he was answering, Ash remembered what he was told.

''-In the near future, all dragons will go extinct. The Orphan that I can produce are getting fewer. At most, dragons can only live for another century.''

''One day, I have to tell Eco this. But I will keep it a secret from her for today…'' Ash vowed. As for the other thing that Mother Dragon told him, Ash decided to tell Eco.

“That’s right, there is also another thing that Mother Dragon told me…”

“What is it? Is it related to me?”

“Of course. It is about your body.”

Eco was staring at Ash with a serious look. Being stared at innocently, Ash became embarrassed.

“Erm… In another words, erm, I shall tell you this only once.”

“What is it?”

“You… You are like a human girl.”

“…”

Eco was confused.

“That is why… You can be pregnant with a baby.”

Ash blurted everything out as fast as possible and his face was blushing from embarrassment.

===Part 3===
In the ladies’ hostel, Silvia who had slept heard a knock and immediately woke up.

“Eco, is that you…?”

Silvia turned around to look at Eco’s bed, but there was no one there.

“Huh!?”

Silvia was on full alert. ''Did Eco sneak out of the room and head to Ash’s…?'' She had a bad feeling. She hurriedly put on her slippers and rushed out of her room, but then…

“Hold on, why would I worry about them when they have been staying in the same room!”

Silvia was knocking her head with her fist.

“Huhu. I can see that you haven’t changed at all.”

Silvia almost had the shock of her life when she heard the voice of a girl. Since the ladies’ hostel was built next to the graveyard, Silvia thought that she saw a ghost and almost screamed.

“…!”

But a black shadow, like the god of death itself, covered Silvia’s mouth. With an abnormal strength, the shadow pushed Silvia down on her bed.

“Huhu. It is me, Princess-sama.”

The shadow laughed and took off its hood and showed its face. Under the bright moonlight, Silvia saw Cosette smiling. Cosette should still be doing her secret investigation under Silvia’s order. ''Why is she in Albion Forest? What does this mean?''

“Actually, the information that princess-sama is looking for is in this novitiate. I managed to sneak in by disguising myself as a nun. Just when I had gotten my hands on the information and was about to head back to Ansarivan… I heard about your visit.”

“I see.”

After she heard everything, Silvia turned on the bright dragon crystal light that was placed by her pillow side. The light was orange in color and it gave the entire room a dreamy feel.

“Then, I would like to look at the data as soon as possible.”

“Here it is.”

Silvia’s hands were trembling when she received the book with the leather cover.

“…”

Her heart was beating at an abnormally fast pace. If the boy who helped Silvia was Ash… Ash certainly gave off the same feeling as the boy. Since the day Silvia found out that her birthday was near to Ash’s, she couldn't remain calm. However, the boy certainly gave up on being Lancelot’s master. To Mother Dragon, he was a person who defied her. Normally, he wouldn't be able to become a Breeder not to mention study in Ansarivan. Everything would be solved if Ash's name was on the list. There were almost a hundred names systematically written on the list. The family status of the child was not written on the list. There were only the names of the children written in alphabetical order. For the children who received an Orphan, their names were circled in red. For those who failed, their names were cruelly crossed out. Ninety percent of the names on the list had received a cross.

Silvia started searching from '''L''' and saw the name ''Silvia Lautreamont'' circled in red.

Next, she looked into '''B''' and looked at the names one by one carefully.

“…!”

Finally, Silvia saw the name she was searching for.

''-Ash Blake.''

Silvia gasped. Her body started trembling.

“Now we could at least be sure that Princess-sama and Ash-sama attended your Orphan Ceremony at the same day.” said Cosette calmly.

“Aah, that’s right… But this doesn't prove anything. We only know that…. Both of us attended our ceremony on the same day.”

“That’s not it Princess-sama. Please look carefully at the names who passed again.”

Although Silvia was puzzled, she did look through the names of those who passed another time.

“This is…!”

After checking every name, Silvia finally noticed the truth.

“Sorry, Cosette! I will be heading out for a while!”

Silvia couldn't stay in her room any longer. She dashed out from her room with just her pajamas.

===Part 4===
''-Stop… I can’t stop smiling.''

After hearing what Ash said, Eco was trying her best to hold back her smile. What had been troubling Eco all this time, were Prim's words in Fontaine City.

''-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 with her…''

No matter how much she desired, she could never pass the barrier of being a different species.

''Would Ash eventually choose a human girl… In fact, there were many females that were full of charms around Ash. One day, I will just become a pet…'' Those were Eco’s troubles.

But, right now, Ash had just verified it.

''-You can be pregnant with a baby.''

With this, it meant that there were no longer any obstacles in her way to compete with all those females.

“…Huhu.”

Eco finally burst out in laughter.

“Hey, Eco!”

“I am finally alive!”

“Eh?”

“I am finally alive! I am an idiot for even worrying about them!”

At that moment, there was a loud growl coming from her stomach.

“T-This is…”

Ash gave her a bitter smile when she held her stomach feeling embarrassed.

“Since the summer holidays began, you haven't eaten properly. A dragon’s meal should be…”

“Five times a day!”

After that, both of them looked into each other’s eyes and laughed. It had been a long time since they had this feeling.

''-I want to kiss… Ash.''

Eco was thinking. ''What a dream it would be to kiss Ash under such mysterious moonlight, in such a beautiful corridor.''

“Ash. Erm…”

Just when Eco was about to tell him her feelings…

“Ash! I finally found you!”

Silvia appeared in her pajamas while her blond hair was in a mess.

===Part 5===
“Princess-sama!?”

Silvia surprised Ash by her sudden appearance and her heavy breathing after she had appeared. Silvia ran there without stopping and her sweat was all over her thin pajamas. It caused her pajamas to stick to her skin and the outline of her breasts and waist could be clearly seen. But it seemed that Silvia had not realized it herself. Ash felt guilty after he saw Silvia’s face. After the meeting with Mother Dragon, Ash regained all his memories. Ash did meet Silvia when he was seven. Although it was unavoidable, Ash had forgotten about it. On the other hand, Silvia always treasured those memories… Ash was just standing there when Silvia spoke while breathing heavily:

“Ash! You are… You are the boy of that time, am I right!?”

Ash was at a loss for words. ''How did she know, even though I haven’t told her yet?''

“Princess-sama, how…?”

“Cosette did an investigation on the data. We attended our Orphan Ceremony together on the same day. Also, you are the only boy who was entrusted with an Orphan by Mother Dragon on that day! The rest of the children who passed are girls!”

After Silvia blurted everything out, it was her turn to become surprise.

“By the way… Did you regain your memories!?”

“Aah…Actually… I only regained them after I met Mother Dragon. Truthfully, I was not yet mentally prepared… That’s why I hadn't told you yet. I am sorry.”

Just when Ash was about to apologized, Silvia shouted:

“Don’t apologize!”

“…Princess-sama?”

“Thanks to you, I can achieve my dream to become a Dragner! Truthfully, I never thought that I could meet that boy ever again. Because we left without even knowing each other’s names… But we meet again after so many years! This is fate!”
[[Image:SnRK v05 263.jpg|thumb]]

“Princess-sama…?”

“Ash Blake! I… I love you!”

Silvia leaped towards Ash.

“Hey! What are you trying to do!?”

Eco was trying to intimidate her while she tried moving into her way. But, Silvia was a step faster. Silvia landed on Ash’s chest. She then closed her eyes and their lips touched. Their hot wet lips touched and there was also the sweet honey like scent. Ash couldn't believe that Silvia was being aggressive in their kiss. The dream like situation caused Ash’s mind to go numb.

“Hey! Both of you… What are you doing!? Do you want me to crush you!”

Eco roared under the full moon.

"The Knight of ECO V" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi:Volume 6 Novel Illustrations|Volume 6 Novel Illustrations]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 4

2018-10-17T00:51:48Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==Chapter 4 - Lost memories, Albion Forest==
===Part 1===
At dawn, Silvia who suddenly woke up felt something on her chest.

“Hey, Eco! Where do you think you are sleeping!?”

“Zzzz…”

Like a child sucking on its mother’s breast, Eco buried her face in Silvia’s chest. Apart from that, her right hand was even grabbing onto Silvia’s breast. Silvia’s breast shook from Eco moving her fingers.

“Aah… Nnn… I-If you touch it like that… Aah…!”

Without thinking, Silvia sat up to calm down herself, she pulled Eco’s arm away with some force.

“Tsk… How rude can you be…”

She was embarrassed at herself for making those unladylike sounds. It was sometime past six when she looked at the clock placed by the side of her pillow. Usually, it was around that time Cosette would wake her up.

“How careless of me! How can I…!”

Although it was summer holidays right now, Silvia’s pride still didn't allow negligence. After giving herself a few light slaps on the both cheeks, she stood up from the bed. She usually started her day with some independent training,<ref>Should be any kind of training without a coach according to my dictionary.</ref> afterwards she would feed Lancelot herself. This was her usual routine.

“Ermm… My dragsuit… Where is my dragsuit…?”

Being forced to take care of her own clothings, Silvia realised painfully how much she was usually relying on Cosette. Right at that moment…

''-Doooooom!''

There was a familiar sound outside of the window.

“Is that… The sound of a Strada landing?”

Surprised, Silvia opened the window. Just as expected by Silvia, when she looked down on the garden of Epona House, there was a familiar strada. And a crater was formed around it.

“Tsk… Your riding ability is indeed one of the best but you should change that emergency landing habit of yours. It causes quite some trouble…”

Silvia sighed. The rider was a lady and she was wearing a moss green coloured uniform. Once she noticed Silvia, she immediately leaped off the saddle and greeted:

"I am the first-class palace messenger, Olietta Blanc! I am here to send the letter that was to be received by Princess Silvia, Her Royal Highness from Cosette Shelley-dono!"

“…From Cosette!?”

Unconsciously Silvia gripped the window frame putting all her strength into it.

===Part 2===
After seeing Olietta off, Silvia walked towards the seventh dragon house. Since it was summer holidays, there were no other dragons except Lancelot inside. Lancelot too had woken up early to match with Silvia. In contrast to Eco, Lancelot was a dragon who followed the rules.

“Sorry for the wait, Lancelot. It is time for breakfast.”

After Silvia placed the defrosted meat in front of Lancelot, Lancelot cried in joy and started enjoying its food. Silvia then took out the letter with her back facing Lancelot. It was the letter that she just received from Olietta.

''-I want you to return to the palace and investigate the name list of the children who went to the orphan ceremony at the same day as me.''

Cosette who obeyed Silvia’s orders to return to the palace had taken the trouble to contact Silvia through the palace messenger.

“Did she manage to find it? Or did anything unexpected happen…?”

Her heart was thumping like the morning alarm. A little courage was required before she was able to tear open the envelope.

'''Dear Princess-sama,'''

'''How are you? Right now, I am staying at Fontaine Palace.'''

'''About the investigation, it seems that five years ago a fire had burnt off a part of the documents related to the Orphan Ceremony.'''

'''Among those documents was the name list of the children who succeeded in the Orphan Ceremony in the past ten years.'''

'''Even so, the information that I obtained states that these documents were a copy and the original name list was kept at a different place.'''

'''I will now continue my search at the location of the name list.'''

'''Please be patient while waiting for the news.'''

'''Cosette . Shelley.'''

Silvia was worn out and gave a long sigh after she finished reading. Lancelot gave Silvia a curious peek.

Silvia grumbled while grooming Lancelot’s fur:

“Tsk… Where in the world is that ‘Location’? Even thought she is a person who has a keen eye for details, it is troublesome when she has forgotten to write the most important thing…”

===Part 3===
After their breakfast, Ash together with Eco and Silvia went to the director’s office. Although it was in the middle of summer holidays, Mirabel was still at the director’s office. She seemed to be reading some difficult books. On top of her table was a mountain load of documents. The working room itself looked more like a private room. Mirabel spoke in a cold voice:

“What’s the matter?”

She asked that while looking at her own documents.

“We have something to ask from Anee-ue. It is about the practical test.”

Ash was glad that Silvia spoke first. Ash was bad while dealing with Princess Mirabel. To him, Veronica seemed a lot more easier to deal with. After hearing that, Mirabel closed her book without changing her expression.

“So you have decided on your destination?”

“Yeah. We would like to head to Albion Forest.”

Mirabel tilted her head a little after Silvia answered directly.

“Your chosen destination is located at quite a remote area. Apart from that, Albion Forest is a sacred place. That place should be tightly guarded by the Albion Forest Military Order.”

“Of course I know that. However, Ash and Eco must head there. And I intend to help them.”

“Could you tell me their reasons for that?”

Ash was shivering from Mirabel’s sharp glance. But now was not the time to stay frightened.

“Ermm… Actually…”

Just when Ash was about to answer…

“Hold on!”

Suddenly, Mirabel stopped him and took out a watch. Ash was shocked seeing the royal’s solemnity.

“It is tea time, Eunice.”

“On my way, Princess-sama.”

Eunice who was like a statue spoke for the first time.

“Hey! How can you drink tea when someone was halfway through his talk!”

Ash grumbled at Mirabel who was doing things at her own pace.

“Do you have a problem with that?”

Her ice magic like glare was putting pressure on Ash.

“No, sorry for bothering you…”

After Ash’s voice turned softer, the room was filled with the smell of bergamot. Taking a look to the side, Eco was sniffing around. It seemed that she took interest in Mirabel’s red tea. It was a different type of interest compared to Ansal. But it was indeed a smell that a dragon would fall in love with. Eunice spoke when she saw Eco’s interest:

“Would the three of you like a cup of tea?”

===Part 4===
The three of them were sitting together on a sofa. Ash who had no interest in tea could only think of ‘It has a nice aroma’. However, it was different for Eco.

“This is wonderful… This is the first time I drank such a great cup of tea.”

Silvia explained to the amazed Eco:

“Anee-ue is very picky about red teas. By the way, this tea is called Earl Gloriana from Chalone.”

“Earl… Groo…?”

Eco almost bit her tongue.

“This kind of tea leaf is famous in the world. You should enjoy it properly.”

“Is that so? I didn't know…”

Eco was enjoying her tea happily.

“Erm… Princess-sama, shouldn't we start with the main topic?’

Ash noticed that it was bad to keep on talking about teas and so he urged on Silvia.

“Aah. That’s right. Can we start now, Anee-ue?”

“You have my permission.” agreed Mirabel.

===Part 5===
Mirabel’s expression never changed during Silvia’s entire explanation. It was even the same when Silvia mentioned about Ash and Eco being summoned by Mother Dragon. Mirabel said something after Silvia finished.

“I understand your situation. Good job for getting the idea of finishing two tasks in one trip. However, Ash Blake, there is one problem. How do you intend to head there? It will take you two weeks to reach there by land. Or do you intend to let Eco transform into a dragon?”

Mirabel glance was like a blizzard approaching Ash.[[Image:SnRK v05 162.jpg|thumb]]

“No, that is impossible. Eco cannot control her transformation consciously.”

“Sorry for being useless…”

Eco puffed up her cheeks. Even so, it was the truth that she couldn't control her own transformation. There was nothing she could do about it. Right after that, Mirabel threw Eco a cold glance.

“Young dragon Eco, there is nothing bad in being useless. It is a matter of life and death for the Knight Country when you transform at a poor time. Because of you crushing the Empire’s airship Beowolf, the Knight Country’s government is having a headache.”

“Urgh…”

Eco turned speechless. Even she felt responsible for it. That’s right. Using the reason of Eco’s dragon form crushing Beowolf, the Empire’s government kept on protesting. According to the latest news, to achieve peace, the Knight Country’s government intended to pay the compensation. Of course at the same time it will cause an impact on the Knight Country’s financial situation.

“But the entire matter is the Empire’s fault to begin with…”

Ash said what he truthfully thought in front of Mirabel.

“Whatever the case may be, it is also the truth that the Empire’s airship was destroyed by a dragon. If the situation was any worse, it could turn into an all out war. Shouldn't we be glad, if we can have this settled by only paying money?”

For the first time, Mirabel kept her eyes away from the documents she was reading and looked at Ash, Silvia and Eco.

“With that, if you can take back an item that can only be found in Albion, I will consider you passing the exam. About that… In this season a flower called Rex Albioni should be blooming. How about it?”

Ash had heard the name of the flower before. It was a flower that could only be found in Albion Forest. Every summer, its white coloured flowers would bloom.

“Understood. We will definitely return with Rex Albioni.”

After she declared this, Silvia turned her sight towards Ash and Eco.

“It had been decided. Please prepare your stuff as soon as possible. We will depart tomorrow morning!”

“Aah… That’s right. But…”

Silvia was confused when she saw that Ash was hesitating.

“What’s wrong? Are you still worrying about anything?”

Ash nodded and looked at Mirabel.

“Ermm… Princess Mirabel?”

“Anything else the matter?”

“You had certainly said that you were here in Ansarivan under Princess Veronica’s orders… But the actual reason is to keep an eye on Eco, am I right?”

“That’s right. That is what the muscle freak’s intention.”

“M-Muscle…!?”

“Ara, do you even have to be surprised? What I am saying is the truth.”

Ash was surprised that Mirabel described the heroine-like character of Veronica with just ‘muscle freak’. It seemed that Mirabel didn't think that it is worth respecting Veronica at all.

“P-Putting that aside… Is it really all right for you to allow us to leave your sight? Doesn't it contradict with Veronica’s intention?”

Mirabel suddenly placed her tea cup on the table.

“Hmm, you are smarter than I thought you were. But, you don’t have to worry about your assumptions. To me, Veronica’s orders are nothing.”

“What do you mean?”

“Let’s assume that Eco once again turned into a dragon, what could we do about it? If there is a person who can stop this disaster, it can only be Ash Blake the owner of Eco. And we are not Ash Blake, are we?”

“That… That may be true but why would you take the trouble to come to Ansarivan?”

“With or without Veronica’s orders, I have my own personal matter to solve in Ansarivan. And that’s the sole reason.”

“What kind of a matter is that? Is it possible for you to tell us about it?”

“The answer is NO<ref>This is spoken in English.</ref>. You shall not ask anything beyond this.”

Mirabel refusing to answer Ash’s question was like putting an end to their conversation. She once again had her attention back on her documents.

===Part 6===
On the next morning, Ash, Eco and Silvia who had done their preparation departed from Ansarivan while they rode on Lancelot together.

“It is all up to you, Lancelot!”

After Silvia shouted, Lancelot gave a cheerful roar. Since part of their journey's reason was for the practical test, Ash and Silvia were wearing their dragsuits. And Eco as Ash’s Pal was wearing her uniform to show that she too was taking the exam. Their sitting sequence was Silvia who held the reins at the front, followed by Eco and Ash. Actually, right before they took flight, Eco said that she would like to take the middle. Thus, Ash was at the end of the line. Ash was holding onto Eco’s slim waist. Although he was embarrassed, he would face falling off Lancelot if he did not grab on it tightly.

“Oooooooo….!”

Even with three people on its back, Lancelot was flying without having to break a sweat. The sky was clear and since it was still early in the day, the weather was cool. However, when noon arrived, the sun would be scorching. Thus it would be better for them to reach at their destination as soon as possible.

“Err, Princess-sama. What do you think Princess Mirabel’s reason was?”

Ash finally asked the question that was on his mind for some time.

''At first, I thought Mirabel was here to keep an eye on Eco. But, for Mirabel to have her own reason…''

“How am I to know that?” snapped Silvia.

“To begin with, about Princess Mirabel… What kind of a person is she? Like Princess Veronica, it is obvious to everyone that she is a fighter.”

Silvia answered while holding the reins:

“Mirabel Onee-sama is a very respectable scholar. Just a few days ago, she was still doing her research in Espada St Law University.”

“…She must have been famous. Does she have any connections with Holy Espada Agency?”

“Certainly. Espada St Law University is directly under the Holy Agency’s secret service. Regardless of humanities studies or science related fields, all the genius' in their regarding field were doing their best for their research there.”

“That’s absurd…”

Even though he didn't know Mirabel’s age, she only looked older by a year or two than Silvia and was still in her teenage years. Even so, for a girl at her age to reserve a spot in the secret service, she was someone to be feared. Ash finally remembered her nickname- ''Argento Magus.''

“Erm, what is the field Princess Mirabel specialized in?”

“She had already obtained a mechanical engineering degree and an archaeological degree. She seems to have a deep interest in sacred relics that are found in historic ruins.”

“Sacred relic… What are those?”

“You knew nothing of those! In this Ark Strada continent, there are many historic ruins. There are the so called Zono Ton’s<ref>An ancient civilization mentioned in the Japanese version.</ref> Enlightenment’s historic ruins.”

Ash remembered he learned about it in his history lessons.

“It includes the Zono Ton’s Ark which is a huge historical ruin that was found in the Empire. In it, many ancient machines were found. That includes the airships that run on fossil fuel and magicships that run on Millennium. All these ancient machines were called sacred relics.”

“So, Princess Mirabel is a specialist in those things that are called sacred relics?”

“That’s right. She was even deeply involved in the development of the Silvanus Magicship of our country. With the help from exiled scientists from the Empire, they turned the excavated magic engine in the country into a ‘usable’ state. Apart from that, she was even in charge of the ship design.”

“Really!? She is such an incredible person!”

“Just that Silvanus was badly damaged in the previous fight.”

“About that… I deeply apologize.”

Ash sighed.

“Sorry…”

Eco who listened to their conversation silently also apologized.

“No, the two of you don’t have to worry about it. I know that the Empire is the culprit and Silvanus is currently being repaired. Even though I initially thought that it was completely destroyed, it seems that the magic engine remained unscathed, just narrowly. If the engine is all right, the outer shell can be easily replaced.”

This was the first time Ash heard about this. After it crashed and exploded, Ash never even thought that it could be repaired.

“Is that so…? Thank god. God bless us all.”

To give Eco a peace in her mind, Ash kept on emphasizing the word ‘thank god’.

“Just that, why would a genius like her come to Ansarivan? There is nothing related to mechanical engineering here. Judging from her behavior, she should be able to ignore Princess Veronica’s order.”

In Ansarivan where there are many dragons, there were many tool made from bright dragon crystal. The bright dragon crystal powered lamp is one of them. Because of this, most of the things in Ansarivan were not related to mechanical engineering and that made it stand out from the Knight Country.

“I also feel the same way. Mirabel Onee-sama was never afraid of Veronica Onee-sama. Normally, she could use her studies as an excuse to refuse. But why would Mirabel Onee-sama who even refused to attend the continental congress with her studies as a reason come to Ansarivan… I wonder.”

“Could it be that she took interest in Eco? Even Angela-sensei became a teacher in the academy because she was interested in Eco… Although I didn't see any sign of her for the recent few days.”

“That’s impossible. Mirabel Onee-sama is a person who would only be interested in mechanics. I don’t think her target is Eco.”

Ash breathed a sigh of relief after Silvia ensured him. Recently, Eco seemed to be emotionally unstable. Ash hoped that nothing will happen, at best.

===Part 7===
Thanks to Lancelot’s effort, the group had arrived at Albion Forest at dusk. After traveling under the scorching sun for the entire afternoon, they now experience the cool evening wind. Around the entrance of the forest was a row of old buildings that looked abandoned. Apart from the cathedral, there was also the novitiate and the quarters. Just by looking for the top, you can feel that those are as old as history itself. The land was very wide and there was the livestock hut and the vegetable farm, not to forget about the vineyard. Albion’s grape wine was very famous and they even exported them to the Chevron kingdom. Looking at the scene below him, Ash muttered:

“Is that… Albion’s novitiate?”

That was the base for Albion Forest Military Order. Although Ash had lost almost all his memories regarding his Orphan Ceremony, but he had a feeling that he missed this place.

“Lancelot, land in front of the gate.”

After receiving its orders, Lancelot started to lower their altitude. Finally, they managed to land safely in front of the gate.

“Gurrr…”

After that, Lancelot rolled itself into a ball and slept. It had used up all its magic in that flight. On a first glance, the dragon who flew with its huge wings actually spent a huge amount of magic.

“Thanks for the hard work.”

Silvia released the reins and patted Lancelot.

“Thank you, Lancelot.”

Ash thanked Lancelot after he had alighted from it. Then, he spread his arms while looking at Eco who was still on Lancelot.

“Hey, Eco! Hoop on.”

Of course that height won’t cause any injuries and Ash was just being thoughtful.

“Nn… Okay.”

Eco placed a hand on her skirt to keep her panties from being seen. Then she jumped from the saddle. Eco who once was not at all bothered by her naked body being seen was now embarrassed to even show her panties. Her recent changes can only be described as shocking. Eco landed in between Ash’s arms.

“Thank you…”

Eco thanked Ash while red in the face and landed on the ground.

“Err… Anything wrong, Princess-sama?

Ash suddenly noticed that Silvia was staring at them. She suddenly blushed.

“I-I am not jealous at all! I never thought about it! No matter what you say, I am a Dragner, not a damsel that has to be protected by a knight!”

Silvia never noticed that she was making it worse when she tried to reason. Ash gave a wry smile and spread his arms in from of Silvia.

“You too, Princess-sama.”

“That's why I said you don’t have to…!”

Although she refused, still she ended up jumping.

However, the skirt for the ladies’ dragsuit was short and when she stood up, the white cloth that wrapped around her skin was seen by Ash.

“H-Hey! If you stand like that…!”

Ash’s shout made Silvia notice.

“Eh?... H-Hey! Where are you looking at- Kyaa!”

Silvia hurriedly tried to hide her panty but in the end she lost her balance. She gave a little groan while she fell.

“Watch out!”

Ash immediately head out and caught Silvia. However, due to the weight of the Dragsuit and her falling momentum…

“Uwaa!”

Ash fell with Silvia in his arms. At the same time, he felt something soft on his face. Of course they were Silvia’s breasts.

“Urgh!”

The shape of her breasts changed and his face was covered as Ash kept on struggling. But the sweet moment only lasted for a short time. Ash felt that he was actually suffocating and finally pushed Silvia away with force.

“Princess-sama… Please… I beg you……”

“Sorry!”

Silvia hurriedly stood up.

“Huff… I am glad that Princess-sama is alright-? Eco… What’s wrong?”

“…”

Eco crossed her arms unhappily and turned her face to aside. Even when Ash kept trying to ask her she refused to even look at him.

“…I thought that was only for me.”

Unfortunately, Ash didn't catch what Eco was mumbling about.

“Erm… Dragner-samas, this place is actually a sacred place thus you may not enter…”

And, there was a person mumbling behind them. Ash then turned around to find a girl aged around ten. She looked like she was in the middle of sweeping since she had a broom in her hand. She looked small and plain like a hamster. In contrast to her cute face, her white coloured dressing and her long skirt made her looked sacred.

“No, we are not any weird people…”

Silvia immediately stopped Ash who was trying to explain.

“I am the Fourth Princess of the Knight Country, Silvia Lautreamont and who are you?”

“P-Princess!?”

The girl dropped her broom and kneeled down on the spot as if she was trying to prostrate herself before Silvia’s feet.

“I-I am sorry for not being able to recognize you! I am called Kurae! I am the priestess of this Albion Forest’s novitiate!”

Her bowing her forehead down many times had caused Ash and Silvia to feel uneasy.

“P-Please stand up. Even though I'm a princess, I'm still a student. Furthermore, I came here today for my private matters. So please stand up.”

“Aaa… Thank you very much.”

Kurae respectfully held Silvia’s hands when she stood up from the ground.

“It is great since you are a priestess. Could we borrow a moment of your time?”

Ash picked up the broom that was laying on the floor and passed it back to Kurae. She took it back without a second thought and looked at him suspiciously.

“…You are?”

“I am Ash Blake, a Dragner.”

Ash took out his silver watch. All the children who dreamed of becoming a Dragner had always been dreaming of being in that situation. Ash was somehow feeling proud. The moment she saw the silver watch, Kurae's eyes became like almond and she kept staring at it.

“So, that handsome dragon… Is Ash-sama's Pal?”

“No… Lancelot is Princess-sama's Pal.”

Kurae was confused.

“Then, where is Ash-sama's Pal?”

“Ehh… My Pal is…”

Ash placed an arm on Eco’s shoulders but he didn't notice Eco trembled a little at the moment his arm was placed.

“She is my Pal, Eco.”

“……”

Eco was embarrassed and was fidgeting in front of Kurae like a child. If it was the past Eco, she would definitely reply with a scold when she felt that the situation was against her… Kurae's expression suddenly changed and kept on staring at Eco’s head.

“Although she looked exactly like a human, those are unmistakably horns. So, you really are young dragon Eco!”

“Huh? Do you know Eco?”

Kurae replied Ash who asked in surprise with a smile:

“That’s right. Just days before, I had received an oracle from Mother Dragon. She told me about it in my dream.”

“Really!?”

“In the novitiate’s record, it had been five hundred years since Mother Dragon had given us an oracle.”

Kurae said proudly however it didn't look impressive when she said it with a broom in her hand.

“Five hundred years!... That’s wonderful!”

Ash was awed.

“Even my grandfather had a heart attack after he heard about it.”

“Wha… Is he alright?”

Ash asked timidly but Kurae replied with a bitter smile.

“He is still as lively as ever. By the way, my grandfather is Albion Forest military order’s leader. He is a great man!”

“That make things simpler. Then, we will greet your grandfather later. Erm, may I ask what was mentioned in the oracle?”

“The Mother Dragon told me that ‘in the coming days, Dragner Ash and Eco the direct descendant of Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family
will be visiting Albion.’ Mother Dragon also reminded me that Eco will be in the form of a human."

Kurae stood up straight and smile.

“Welcome to the holy land of Albion. I welcome you with all my heart.”

===Part 8===
Ash and the rest passed through the gates while being led by Kurae. Along the way, they walked past a few priests and nuns who looked at them in surprise which made them feel uneasy. As far as it went, although they were known as knights<ref>the military order had the kanji of knight in it.</ref>, they didn't feel like one. Kurae was heading towards a stone building at a corner.

“My grandfather’s office is right here.”

Since she was used to it, Kurae entered without knocking. She was followed by Silvia and right behind her was Ash.

===Part 9===
“I am Albion Forest Military Order’s leader, Casvazu. But I am already an old man. You can call me grandpa.”

The leader of the military order who greeted them was not what they imagined. He was a friendly man. Still, it certainly seemed like he was at an age where a heart attack could happen anytime. Regardless of his voice, even his movements were trembling. He must be ninety…. No, he could be more than a hundred. Since he had a long white beard and was wearing a black robe, he looked exactly like a magician from the fairy tales.

“By the way, Princess Silvia… You have grown into a fine woman. I still remember the day you returned from the forest with your orphan, Lancelot.”

“Thank you, grandpa.”

Silvia thanked his politeness respectfully. However, many complicated feelings emerged on her face at the same time. It was probably because she never told him that the Orphan Lancelot was given to her by Ash which made her feel guilty.

“Erm, who’s the young lad beside you?”

Ash straightened his back when they were talking about him.

“I am Ash Blake.”

The moment his name was mentioned, the old man’s eyebrows twitched.

“Hmm… So you are Ash Blake... Where have I heard this name before…”

The old man paused for a moment and then suddenly he shouted:

“T-That’s it…! Ash! On your left arm… Isn't there a weirdly shaped Seikoku!?”

“Do you mean this?”

Ash pulled up his sleeve and removed the bandages. Normally, Ash didn't want anyone to see his Seikoku. But somehow, he didn't mind this old man seeing it at all. The old man’s eyes glittered the moment he saw Ash’s Seikoku.

“That’s right…. That’s right…! Hmm… I think I'm beginning to remember…”

Ash became nervous once he heard the words that had a deep meaning to them.

“Really! Actually I… don’t have any memories regarding my Orphan Ceremony. Could you tell me anything about it, anything would be fine.”

To his disappointment, the old man shook his head.

“Sorry… The only thing that I remember is that Seikoku. Prince Julius’s Seikoku was one that was different from the rest…, Yours too was not normal.”

“Grandpa! You know about Anii-ue's Seikoku!?”

Suddenly, Silvia leaned forward which surprised Ash.

“Princess-sama? Why are you surprise…?”

Silvia immediately came back to her sense and was embarrassed about it.

“That… When I was still a child, I liked to tease Anii-ue. I once said ‘I want to look at your Seikoku’. But, Anii-ue… He remained silent and cut me off. During that time, I was deeply hurt…”

The old man looked at Silvia and said:

“Prince Julius probably had the same feelings as Ash. The prince’s Seikoku totally covered his back… I thought it was a kind of bad omen the first time I saw it. It is not unreasonable for him to dislike anyone seeing it. Who would have thought that my fear really came true…”

As if she was trying to comfort this old man, Silvia told him this:

“Please rests assured. Actually this is a secret, but Anii-ue is actually alive. He was still at Fontaine City just days before, but it is not yet the time to reveal this truth.”

“Huh…? Is that true!? So the prince had overcome his fate!”

Tears were flowing from the old man’s eyes.

“…Emotions can easily overwhelm me at my age…”

The old man took a deep breath and smiled.

“Lucky for you, we won’t be having the Orphan Ceremony tomorrow. You can search for Mother Dragon tomorrow, how about it?”

As for Ash, he wanted to search for Mother Dragon as soon as possible, however it was already dusk. Even though it may be a sacred place, the night forest was still a dangerous place.

“I understand. We will enter Albion Forest tomorrow. Also… Could you tell us of any place near here where we can spend the night?”

“You don’t have to worry about your lodging!”

Ash’s question was immediately answered by Kurae who was standing at the doorway.

“Our novitiate will provide our visitors a place to stay. Though it may be simple and crude, meals are provided.”

“Really!? Thank you. That really helped us, Kurae. Are the two of you alright with this, Princess-sama, Eco?”

Ash turned around and looked at the two.

“I am alright with it.”

“I will be fine if you are okay with it.”

It was a surprise that Eco answered readily regardless of Silvia. The past Eco would definitely say ‘Do we get to have delicious meat?’. The Eco right now looked more mature and cuter. However it is also true that it felt weird.

''-Just as I thought, Eco is best when she is full of spirit and eats a lot. What should I do to help her get rid of her problems…?''

Just when Ash was deep in thought-

“…Anything wrong, Ash?” asked Silvia.

Ash immediately came back to his senses.

“N-Nothing… I am fine.”

“Are you sure? You looked like something was troubling you.”

Ash didn't know how to react when Silvia hit the bull’s eye. Luckily, Kurae spoke with an innocent smile:

“Everyone, shall we head to the hostel?”

===Part 10===
Ash was muttering to himself in the dark forest.

“Haa… What am I actually doing?”

His legs were heavy and the air around was humid. The air was filled with the smells of tree sap and the earth. There were insects buzzing around and even caterpillars dropping from the trees. It always frightened him when he heard the cries from weird birds. Spiders the size of a fist could be seen anywhere. When a snake appeared from the ground, everyone would run without embarrassment.

“Tsk… Where had the others gone?”

When he entered Albion Forest, Ash had been walking with a large group of children. But somehow, Ash was walking alone. It was like the huge forest had swallowed hundreds of children and had them separated.

“Haa…”

He had already lost count of how many times he sighed. Ash then raised his head and looked at the view above. The trees covered the sky like a roof. Even the tiny amount of sunlight that pierced the canopy looked like it was disappearing. Ash had traveled far from a village called Alba at the country borders to this forest. He had come to this sacred place the adults call ‘Albion Forest’. Of course, he didn't come here by his own will.

===Part 11===
Days ago, Ash just had his seventh birthday on a horse carriage. It was about twenty days ago that his mother, his younger sister, the village chief and his friends saw him off. It was snowing on the day he left Alba. In the end, no one was there to celebrate his birthday with him. He remembered his mother’s advice.

''-In this Lautreamont Knight Country, every child must head to ‘the forest’ on their seventh birthday. If you are gifted, the dragon in the forest will give you an Orphan. That is a honorable thing to have.''

Unfortunately, the young Ash did not feel the need to be honorable.

“Tsk… What an ill looking forest.”

Ash grumbled while he was wandering around. Finally he stopped.

“*Hick*…”

He thought he heard the voice of a girl crying, but it could be his imagination. He stood still and tried to listen closely.

“*Sob*…*Sob*…"

This time, he was sure of it.

“I better go have a look.”

Ash ran. Rather than being worried about the girl, it was more accurate to say that he was looking for a companion. He kept moving towards the source of that voice. Ash gasped after passing through the thick bushes. A girl was sitting under a big tree crying. There were two reasons for Ash’s gasp. One was because of the girl’s blonde hair.[[Image:SnRK v05 189.jpg|thumb]]

Even though they were in the dark forest, her hair was like sparkling gold even when there was only a tiny amount of light. It was not something that could be found at the border in Alba. The other was because of the girl’s attire. She was wearing a dress with many jewels of different colours sewn into it. It didn't look like a dress that should be worn when entering a forest. Ash cautiously walked towards her and slowly reached out with his hand.

“Are you alright?”

The girl slowly lifted her head. Looking out from behind the tidy fringes were a pair of wet, ice blue eyes-

===Part 12===
“Princess-sama…!?”

After being surprised by the girl’s beauty, Ash returned from his seven year old self. And because of that, Ash woke up from his sleep. He was confused for a moment after waking up in an unfamiliar room but immediately remembered that he was in the hostel for visitors. It was just a simple room with an old single bed placed by the wall. Eco and Silvia were not with him. Guys and girls had to sleep separately in the strict novitiate. Both Eco and Silvia were sleeping in the woman’s hostel.

“It is already morning…”

Ash mumbled while looking out the window. The morning rays had brightened up the room and the scenery was just a huge swath of forest with the cries of wild birds heard from beyond. Ash took a look at his silver watch that was placed by his pillow side and saw that it was just five o’clock.

“What was that dream about…?”

Ash sat up and pushed his sweaty fringes to the side. Even though the weather was not hot, Ash’s entire body was drenched in sweat. It actually felt like he had been running in the forest. Ash tried to recall his dream. He was sure that it was about what happened when he was seven. He was also sure that it was of the time when he was in Albion Forest. Ash was having his Orphan Ceremony in his dream.

“Is that what actually happened in my past?”

Once he considered this possibility, Ash’s heart was beating rapidly non-stop. Since he became Eco’s host, the past that he could never remember - suddenly appeared in his dream.

''What does this mean?''

“Could it be that because this is a sacred place…? Did it affect me…?”

Suddenly at that moment, Ash remembered something important.

“That’s right, princess-sama…”

The girl who appeared at the end of the dream-

“Although she was still a child, I am certain that she is princess-sama! Did I… meet princess-sama during my Orphan Ceremony!?”

Ash wanted to rush into the woman’s hostel to question Silvia about it, but he managed to stop himself. That was a place where men were not allowed to take a step, no matter what. Also, this was not the academy but the novitiate. If he ever broke the rules, he won’t be getting away easily. In the end, it was just a dream. It is better not to act rashly before he had any evidence.

“Haa… I will go wash my face first.”

Ash sighed while he was crawling out of his bed. ''By the way, didn't I keep sighing in my dream…'' Ash smiled when he thought about this.

===Part 13===
After taking his breakfast in the hostel, Ash met up with Silvia and Eco at the cathedral. Then, the trio immediately headed towards Albion Forest. Lancelot wouldn't be able to travel with them since the forest was thick and the dragons were too large. Since they never intended to ride on a dragon, they wore their school uniforms instead of the dragsuits. Similar to yesterday, Eco was wearing her uniform. She was carrying the stuffed toy in front of her chest. She seemed to like it very much, given that she took the trouble to bring it with her. The temperature in the forest was cool, which made them doubt that it was in mid-summer. This forest bore a different kind of feeling compared to a normal forest. To put it in words, it actually felt sacred. The reason they called Albion Forest a sacred place may not solely be due to it being the home of Mother Dragon. Or it could be that this place became sacred because it was the home of Mother Dragon. Ash felt nostalgic when he breathed in the surrounding air.

No, it was definitely not weird. Ash definitely had visited this place before. The view in front of him definitely matched the image of the forest in his dream.

“The problem is, where is Mother Dragon? Did Navi tell you anything about it?”

Silvia who was leading the group turned around and looked at Ash.

“No… Navi didn't tell me anything.”

“I see. If that’s the case, we will enter the forest like we did during the Orphan ceremony.”

Silvia declared and continued marching in.

''-Kshaaaaaa!''

Suddenly there was the cry of a weird bird.

“Eek!”

Silvia covered her head with her arms. Ash was shocked because from behind, she looked exactly like the girl in his dreams.

“Are you alright, Princess-sama? I think you better not wander too far away from us.”

“I am fine! I-I am not scared at all!”

Although Silvia boasted this, in the end, she was walking side by side with Ash. Ash smiled bitterly in his heart to avoid being noticed.

“Hey… Ash.”

Eco, who had remained silent since entering the forest, gave Ash a gentle pull on his sleeve.

“Yes?”

“About Mother Dragon… Is she my ‘mother’?”

Ash was dumbfounded when he heard this. Since he had been focused on searching for Mother Dragon the entire time, he had never thought about it.

“She is indeed called a mother. I am sure that she is definitely a mother to you. What do you think about it, Princess-sama?”

Silvia crossed her arms and said:

“It is probably different compared to us humans. Mother Dragon is like a queen bee. She probably won’t care about every newborn she has…”

Half way through speaking, Silvia noticed a change in expression on Eco’s face and hurriedly corrected herself.

“Of course this is just my assumption. I don’t know the actual truth.”

“So, we will only know the truth after we meet her.”

Ash assured her by petting her head.

“Don’t worry, I will be right here. I will be there for you no matter how Mother Dragon treats you. That is one thing that will never change.”

“Ash…!”

Eco lifted her head after Ash's encouragement. Her long eyelashes, her eyes were wet together with her blushing transparent white skin.

''-C-Cute…!''

Even though he was just looking at Eco, his heart already started to beat rapidly. The two of them just stared at each other silently…

“Ahem!”

A cough that could shake a earth gave Ash and Eco the fright of their life.

“Hey… Have you both forgotten about me.”

Ash hurriedly turned around and saw Silvia looking at them displeased.

===Part 14===
The trio were just wandering around the forest aimlessly. Ash suddenly stopped after passing through some bushes. An image of a young girl appeared in front of him. The girl had hair as dazzling as the rays of light that pierced the forest canopy and a pair of clear blue eyes. She was carrying a dragon shaped stuffed toy. She was crying because of her injured leg.

“This is…!”

Ash even forgot to blink when he looked at his surroundings. There was an empty space below the dense canopy, near the roots of a huge tree. It was definitely the same. It was the exact same place as his dream.

“Ash?”

Silvia who was five steps in front of him turned around.

“Is there anything wrong?”

Eco was looking at him worriedly.

“…Nothing. Sorry.”

Ash came back to his senses and continued his journey.

''-Has Princess-sama forgotten about this place…?''

Ash wondered while he was looking at Silvia from behind. ''No, it is quite normal not to remember the scene in the forest.''

Just that, since the place in the dream actually existed, the dream might be real.

''-Is what happened in my dream my past experience?''

“Hmm? Huh… Eco? Princess-sama?”

Ash was shocked when he lifted his head again. Eco and Silvia who should have been walking in front of him had disappeared. Everything around him was either bushes or trees.

“Damn! Eco! Princess-sama!”

Ash was shouting their name while he ran around. Suddenly, a white fog appeared from nowhere. Ever since this he couldn't really rely on his vision, Ash was just searching for the two blindly.

“Ecoooooooo! Princess-samaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

However, the further he walked the thicker the fog became. In the end, everything he saw was blank white. He even began to lose consciousness.

“Tsk… What in the world is this fog…”

After he finished this sentence, Ash’s consciousness was completely devoured by the fog.

===Part 15===
“Huff… We have been walking for some time and Mother Dragon has yet to appear. She should at least tell us where to look for her.”

Silvia grumbled and at the same time, she stopped.

“Urgh!”

Eco immediately knocked into Silvia.

“Why did you suddenly stop!?”

Eco scolded with her swollen nose. Silvia turned around and glared at Eco.

“And why did you walk without looking where you're going!?”

Silvia was trying to provoke her. Eco then also noticed that Silvia was staring at her stuffed toy. Eco just couldn't understand why Silvia was interested in how Ash acquired the stuffed toy. She was pissed about it. No matter what happened, this toy will always be an important thing to Eco. She had thought it looked cute at first sight and she just felt drawn to it. Most important of all, it was given to her by Ash. Eco hugged it tightly.

“Why do you have to enter the forest? Mother Dragon only asked for Ash and me. Why could you not stay in the novitiate’s garden and search for Rex Albioni!?”

“W-What did you say!”

Silvia’s expression changed. This was the first time Eco saw a human’s face turn pale as if drained of blood.

“I came with you because I am worried! Are you saying that… Do you not like that I am being nice to you?”

“Hah! Being nice! Maybe it is because of an uninvited guest that Mother Dragon has not appeared!”

Although this was said at the spur of the moment, it was still a logical reason. That’s right. Mother Dragon hasn't appeared before them because Silvia accompanied them. The one she asked for were Ash and Eco. But, Eco knew that she was being mean to Silvia, who usually took care of her. Her heart was conflicted, wondering whether she had over reacted.

“Eco… Do you really mean it?”

Silvia who was seldom scolded was looking down. However, the more she thought about the connection between the toy and Silvia, the more uneasy she felt.

''If this stuffed toy really belongs to Silvia… What does that signify?''

“Hey Eco! If you want to apologize, this will be your only chance.”

Silvia was glaring at Eco sharply. She was obviously cross because of Eco’s words.

“Hmph! I will let Ash decide who is at fault!”

“Fine with me! Hey, Ash!”

“Ash! Tell us immediately!”

But Ash never answered.

“…Ash? Huh?”

Eco was looking at her surroundings. Ash who had been walking with them just moments before had disappeared.

“Ash!? Where is he?”

Eco lost her cool. Ash was lost. Ash who was always by her side has gotten lost. Eco had become separated from Ash in the past, which led to a horrible experience with the Empire. Because of that, she felt uneasy whenever Ash was not by her side.

“Hey, Ash!? Where are you!?”

Silvia was looking around searching for him. Unnoticed by them, the white fog had started to appear and it became difficult for them to see things even an inch away.

“Grrrrrrrr…”

At that moment, they certainly heard a beast's growl.

“Please tell me that I am dreaming…!”

Eco who turned around immediately froze.

“Wha…! A Necromancia!? This is ridiculous! This should be a sacred place…!”

Just as Silvia had said, standing right in front of her was a Necromancia. Similar to Willingham Mausoleum, it was a young dragon sized Necromancia. But it was still as intimidating as ever. Though it looked small, its black fur and rotten teeth were still too much to bear.

“Stay behind!”

Silvia, as if trying to protect Eco, took out a huge Bright Dragon Crystal.

“Lancelot! I summon you in my name, Silvia Lautreamont- urgh!"

Many whip like tentacles appeared from the Necromancia's stomach and the spell was interrupted. Silvia’s wrist was grabbed and she dropped the Bright Dragon Crystal. Apart from that, more of the deep red coloured tentacles appeared and grabbed her arms and legs. The next thing she knew, her entire body was surrounded by tentacles and she was hanging in mid air. The more she struggled the tighter the tentacles gripped.

“Urgh… Stooooop!”

Silvia was red with anger and tears flowed from her eyes. Eco was shocked to see that the usually cool and brave Silvia could do nothing against them.

“Grrrrrrrrrrroooooooo!”

The Necromancia roared and it's slimy tentacles wrapped themselves around Silvia’s cleavage and hips. The tentacles left slimy residue wherever they touched.

“Tsk… For me, the fourth princess of the Knights… To be suffering from this… Do you know what will happen to you!?”

Of course her intimidation would never work. In the end, a tentacle found a way into her cloths and tore them. The rags from her clothes dropped like snowflakes. Her feminine shoulders, her breast, and her waist were all exposed.

“Aah! W-Where are you touching…! You better…! Aaa…!”

The tentacles were crawling on her snow white body. The slime that came from the tips had caused her entire body to become slimy.
[[Image:SnRK v05 206.jpg|thumb]]

Even so, Silvia shouted to Eco:

“What are you doing!? Run! Don’t worry about me!”

“I-I… I can’t do that!”

Eco clenched her fist. Just moments ago, Eco had said terrible things to Silvia. But now, Silvia had risked her life to allow Eco to escape. Running away on her own was something her pride would never allow. If Ash were with them, she could have at least given him his Ark to allow him to fight. But in this case, he had disappeared. If that’s the case, Eco would do it on her own way.

''-If I turn into a dragon… They are just small fries. But how do I control my transformation?''

Eco was trying to figure it out while sweat was running down her forehead. No matter how hard she tried to recall that feeling… she still couldn't get a clear image of it.

“Eco! Watch out! Behind you!” warned Silvia.

“Eh….?”

Eco turned around, and stood frozen. Like a beast who spotted its prey, a second Necromancia had its eyes on Eco.

“Eek…!”

Her face turned pale. Though she wanted to run away, her body wouldn't budge.

“Grrrrrrrrrrroooooooo!”

While it roared, numerous tentacles burst from it. In just a split second, they had captured Eco’s arms and legs. Eco felt herself being lifted from the ground and the next thing she knew, she was hanging upside down. She felt embarrassed the moment she noticed that she was being hung upside down. This was because her skirt was now at her chest and her panties were exposed.

“Nooooooooooo!”

Eco shouted in despair but her vision was now obscured by the deep red coloured tentacles.

===Part 16===
“Are you… Hurt?”

Just as Ash asked this, the blond girl suddenly stood up.

“W-Who is hu-!?”

However, before she could even finish speaking, the girl showed an expression of pain and fell to the ground again.

“Urgh…”

Judging her reaction, it seemed be her ankle that was injured. Suddenly, something fell.

“Huh…?”

Ash picked it up and noticed that it was a stuffed dragon toy. It didn't look good even judging at the lowest possible standard. In general, it was carelessly done and its body was designed to be round. He even doubted whether this was a dragon.

“Don’t you think that's pitiful to leave it on the ground?”

Ash handed her the stuffed toy and spoke to her in a tone similar to how he usually talked to his sister. It seemed like the toy was indeed important to the girl since she took it back with full force. Ash gave the girl a wry smile, turned around and knelt down.

“W-What are you doing!?”

The girl continued to put on an act, but it was obvious that she was at her limit.

“Isn't it obvious? I am bringing you back to the entrance.”

“What! You mean… We are going back!? Are you going to give up on the Orphan Ceremony?”

Ash nodded and spoke as if it was as clear as the blue sky.

“That should be the most sensible thing to do. You can’t expect to search with that leg of yours right?”

“Don’t joke with me!”

Ash didn't expect to be shouted at.

“I need a Pal! It is impossible for me to turn back now!”

“The ''Pal'' that you speak of… What is that?”

Ash asked.

“What! How can you not know that, as a citizen of the Knights Country!” replied the girl in a rage.

“Remember this! It is the bond between a Breeder and a dragon! It is a very sacred word!”

“I see…”

But the girl was not letting him off easily. Leaning forward, she continued on.

“What about you? If you have the time to worry about me, why not search for Mother Dragon? Or do you not want to become a Breeder?”

“W-What?”

Because the distance between their faces was too small, Ash was much too embarrassed and tried not to look straight at the girl.

“So you are pretending to search for Mother Dragon with the intention of returning home empty handed? So the recent talk in town about most children lacking motivation these days is true.”

Ash flustered when the girl pointed out his plan. Truthfully, Ash was never interested in dragons. ''Maybe those children without motivation the girl speaks of are children like me''. Even so, Ash could never admit this while the girl was seriously talking to him.

“If it is possible… I would like to meet with Mother Dragon… I think?”

“Then, lets go! I will teach you about my family’s motto! Listen carefully!”

''Shhh…'' There was a gentle breeze blowing, followed by the cry of birds.

“The knight's pride is his dragon.”

After being motivated by the girl, Ash was going to turn to his right, but…

“Hold on! If I were to leave, what about you? Wouldn't you be lonely?”

“B-But I will never withdraw because of a mere injury! I-I will never give up!”

Ash sighed. He even laughed when he thought about the mess she was in. Once again, he looked straight into the girl’s eyes. What an unpredictable girl. Where had the girl who was crying because of an injured leg gone? When she was talking about dragons, her eyes sparkled. Ash thought that he was meddlesome but still came up with a decision.

“I see. You want to become a Breeder no matter what, am I right?”

“That goes without saying.”

“And you are sure you don’t want to head back?”

“That too goes without saying!”

“That is why there is only one choice left. I will give you a piggyback ride and we shall search for Mother Dragon together. How about that?”

“Eh?”

The girl was surprised. Unfortunately, the girl was not listening to Ash. Her blue eyes were staring at the space behind Ash.

“W-What’s wrong?”

Finally, Ash noticed that something was off and he turned around.

“Guuooooo!”

To his horror, a huge animal was glaring at him from the middle of the bushes.

It's wet body was shiny from the sunlight piercing through the thick canopy.

“A Basilisk…!”

Though it may have been a lowly animal, it was still a kin to the Asias. It lifted its webbed front leg and took a step towards Ash.

“Run!”

Ash forcibly placed the girl onto his back and dashed off.

===Part 17===
“Haa…Haaa… I thought I was dead meat.”

After running frantically in the forest, Ash finally stopped underneath a tree with his heart almost exploding. Luckily, he no longer had to worry about the Basilisk.

“Huff… Are you alright?”

The girl on his back didn’t reply. She was shivering in fear while tightly holding on to Ash. Only then did Ash realize that their bodies were too close to each other and he blushed in embarrassment. He could feel her body heat through the clothes on his back and smell the perfume that she used. The girls in Ash’s village never had the habit of putting on perfume. And even the ladies only use it on special occasions. Right now, his heart was on the verge of exploding for another reason. To distract himself, he tried provoking the girl.

“Tsk. Who would have expect you to be this timid. Didn't you say ‘The knight's pride is his dragon’? See, even your family motto is crying.”

“Shut up!”

After being provoked, the girl was in a rage and gave Ash a good beating.

“Ouch! I beg you, please stop!”

Ash almost dropped her to the ground.

“It is because you made fun of me!”

“Fine, I am sorry! I am really sorry! Ouch!”

''-The knight's pride is his dragon''.

Judging from this family motto, the girl should be from a Dragner's family. ''However, how is she going to ride a dragon while being timid…''

''Her family probably also thought this and that’s why they had prepared a cute dress for her.'' Of course, Ash didn't tell her what he was thinking.

“…Erm, what should we do next?”

The girl stopped hitting him after she heard him asking.

The sun was starting to set.

It was almost time for the Orphan Ceremony to end. According to the Albion Forest military order who was in charge of the Orphan Ceremony,
Mother Dragon will only appear in front of a gifted child who. Even so, the girl answered firmly.

“I will never give up! I will search for Mother Dragon no matter what!”

Ash laughed after he heard the expected answer. Of course, Ash had no objection. Just moments before, he had promised the girl.

''-I will give you a piggyback ride and we shall search for Mother Dragon together.''

“Then… Shall we start searching?”

“Lets!”

Ash took a whole new step forward. The wet earth sunk a little because of their combined weight.

''Why do I feel like I have become her 'Pal'…''

===Part 18===
''Ring…''

Ash’s body almost reached its limit when he first heard the beautiful sound.

''Ring…''

Ash heard it once again.

No, he didn't even know if it was really a sound. It was more like a vibration that he felt on his body rather than a sound that he heard with his ears.

“Did you hear that?”

“Huh?”

Ash was speechless when the reply was a question.

“It is hard to put it in words, but it is like someone is calling out to me.”

“Really!”

The girl suddenly leaned forward which nearly caused Ash to lose his balance.

“Maybe Mother Dragon is calling out to you. Then…”

Suddenly, the girl lost all her motivation and turned silent.

“What’s wrong?”

“I hear nothing at all… Even though you are able to.”

“Well, we can't be certain that it is the voice of Mother Dragon. It could be my imagination-”

Right at that moment, in a split second, his vision was filled with bright light. The dense forest disappeared from view. Right after that, Ash was floating in an empty space.

===Part 19===
“This is…”

Ash was in an unknown space. At first glance, he thought he was in a dark cave, but the ceiling was too high. There were many balls of light moving around on the ceiling. By taking a closer look, he noticed that they were actually bright dragon crystals. Even the most luxurious chandeliers didn't look as magnificent as this. There was a wide lake at his feet and it was reflecting the lights in the ceiling. The lake water was clear and it only went up to about Ash’s knees. Facing the lake was an old looking building. Ash thought it looked like a shrine that was dug out from the ruins. The ground was made of square rocks and right on them stood many pillars with weird looking carvings. A huge wall painting could be seen inside the shrine through the space in between the pillars though he couldn't understand it. Suddenly, Ash noticed a sweet scent. It smelled a little like lavender and a little like rose. It should be the so called Ansal that dragons like.

“Nnn…”

All of a sudden, there was a sound coming from beside Ash. When he turned around, he saw the girl lying beside him. Ash’s heart skipped a beat when he noticed the heat of her palm. Seeing that the girl was opening her eyes, Ash immediately let go of her hand.

“This is…”

The girl who had just opened her eyes was looking around at this unknown space.

''-Ring…''

Ash once again felt that weird feeling.

“Did you hear that weird sound?”

The girl shook her head sadly. It seemed that only Ash could feel it. Suddenly, there was a strong gust. Ash was almost blown away while the girl kept holding on to her toy while enduring the wind. At the same time, a loud sound that could shake the earth was echoing within the cave. They were unable to keep their eyes open. Finally, the sound and the wind stopped. Ash was trembling in fear when he opened his eyes slowly. There was something on the opposite side of the lake in the middle of the shrine.

It was a dragon.

There were two ivory colored horns on its head. Its body was covered with white fur and there were many sparkling jewelries on its long neck.

“Is that… Mother Dragon?”

“Eh?”

In contrast to Ash's reaction, the girl was looking around aimlessly. It seemed like only Ash could see the dragon.

“Grrooooo!”

The dragon lifted its neck and roared. The pebbles on the ground were starting to vibrate. The dragon’s height was about a three-story building after it stretched it's neck. Though she couldn't see the dragon, the girl could still hear its roar. Since she was frightened, she was clinging to Ash. However, Ash was surprised that he was not at all afraid. Rather than that, he felt that he could understand the dragon.

''-Ash Blake of Alba Village. I shall hand thee my Orphan…''

This feeling was right. Mother Dragon was entrusting an Orphan to him.

“Don’t joke with me!”

Ash was in rage. To be frank, Ash never intended to have an Orphan. If it hadn't been of that girl, he would not have been searching for Mother Dragon in the first place. On the other hand, the girl had always wanted an Orphan. Ash never asked her about her reasons but he could feel that it was important. That was why he had made a decision the moment he met her.

“Mother Dragon! You are an idiot! I am not the one who needs an Orphan! It is she who needs it!”

After shouting in a loud voice that even surprised himself, he tightly grabbed both of her shoulders and made her stand in front of him.

“Hey…! What are you doing!?”

“Get a hold of yourself! Didn't you have your own reasons!?”

“B-But… I can’t even see Mother Dragon…”

“That's not a problem! Mother Dragon is right there!”

Ash was pointing towards Mother Dragon.

“Please, Mother Dragon! Entrust her with an Orphan!”

“…”

There was no reply. Instead, Mother Dragon’s fur was glowing with white light. Ash’s body was surrounded by a mysterious light.

“Urgh…!”

Ash noticed that a formless energy was entering his body. His left hand was being lifted against his will. Even though Ash tried to clench his fist, it ended up failing. He felt that his left hand was burning. A symbol like a family crest of a noble was slowly being branded on Ash’s palm.

“Y-You… Fool!”

It was clear that it was the proof of the contract, the Seikoku. Mother Dragon was forcing an Orphan on to Ash without even listening to what he was trying to say. It seemed that regardless of human or dragon, mothers will never listen to reasons.

''-Stop! If this continues… I will become a breeder!''

Ash grabbed onto the girl and dragged her towards him. He then shouted as loud as a dragon.

“Uooooooooooooooooooooo!”

''-Don!''

Ash pushed his burning palm towards the middle of the girl’s chest.

She immediately felt an electric shock from the tips of her finger to her head.

“Aah…!”

The girl groaned. Even so, Ash kept on pressing his hand on the girl’s chest. The girl’s dress started to tear and her white skin beneath was exposed. Nevertheless, Ash’s burning hand was not leaving her chest. Ash never thought that his struggle could change anything. However, that never stopped him from trying. He would never allow the girl to lose her only chance of becoming a Breeder. A person could only attend the Orphan Ceremony once in their lifetime. There was never a second chance.

“I will hand this Seikoku over to you! This Orphan… Is now yours!” Ash cried in agony.

''-Buumg!''

Then, something unbelievable happened in front of Ash.

His left arm exploded. The area below his elbow and his sleeve was blasted into pieces.

“Hic…!”

The girl lost consciousness from the shock of being bathed in blood. She then fell on the spot. Ash too, who had witnessed the unbelievable things happening, was on the verge of losing consciousness and managed to barely hold his ground only after putting all his effort in it. Although it didn't hurt, blood was still flowing from that terrible wound. Ash turned to look at the girl while trying his hardest to stay conscious. In the middle of her white chest was the Seikoku that was once branded on Ash’s palm. Regardless of what happened, the Seikoku had been successfully transferred to the girl.

“Haha… I did it… I really did it…!”

While Ash was laughing joyfully, he fell to the ground dead.

===Part 20===
“Uwaaaa!”

Ash woke up in shock from his left arm exploding.

“Huh?”

He hurriedly take a look at his left arm. He breathed a sigh of relief when he noticed that it was still wrapped in bandages as usual.

“It seems that you are now awake.”

Suddenly, there was a clear voice coming from above.

“Huh… Uwaa!”

There was a woman he had never seen before looking at him. He immediately leaped away when he noticed that he was lying in her lap. The woman who gave Ash a lap pillow had long green hair that reached her waist and an unworldly beauty. Her eyes were also green which made them look like large jades. There were two horns on her head and they had many tines on them. She was the third woman Ash knew to have horns. She looked to be around twenty five years old. Even though she looked young, she seemed like a lady from a noble's family. Even the dress she wore was of high quality. She was just like a dame that appeared in the opera.

“Excuse me…. You are?”

“I am Mother Dragon.”

“Eeeh!?”

Ash almost had the shock of his life. Looking around, the scene certainly looked like the scene in his dream. It was the spot where the seven year old Ash met Mother Dragon. Ash was now inside the shrine he hadn't entered in his dreams. On the other side of the pillars was the huge lake glittering
under the lights. It was presumable that it was a space built by the dragon’s magic. Because it somehow felt like the dragon workshop. There was even the smell of Ansal. Even so, was the lady standing in front of him Mother Dragon?

The Mother Dragon that appeared in his dream was in the form of a sacred dragon, but now she looked like a young woman. Although it was certain this woman was a dragon judging by her horns. Ash suddenly remembered something important.

“Are Eco and Princess-sama alright!? I remember that they were lost in the forest!”

“Both of them are here.”

Mother Dragon answered calmly and pointed at the area behind Ash.

“Who do you think… I am… I am gonna crush… Aaah!”

“Stop… I am the princess of this country…! Who allowed you to touch that spot…!”

Eco and Silvia were both lying on the ground. They seemed to be having a nightmare. Sweat was beading on their foreheads. Even their distress looked alluring and made Ash’s heart skipped a beat.

''What in the world are they dreaming about?''

“Erm… Are the two of them alright?”

Mother Dragon answered indifferently -

“These are just elementary level illusions. Both of them lack training. But, worry not, it won’t affect their bodies.”

“I see…”

After he breathed a sigh of relief, he remembered something important about Eco and Mother Dragon.

“That right! Eco was wondering about something related to you. She was wondering if you are her ‘mother’. I will wake her up immediately."

“Please do hold on.”

He couldn't believe that the Mother Dragon who was always thought to be kind would snap at him.

“Sorry to say this, but even though I may be the mother of all dragons, I am not Eco’s mother.”

“Eh…?”

“In other words, I am responsible for the reproduction system of the dragons. I am the core of the wise dragon Albion’s magic. Even when she is Avalon’s Imperial Princess, I bear no personal feelings for her.”

Ash felt sad for Eco after hearing what Mother Dragon had said.

“Don’t you think that Eco is pitiful… After what you said? What’s more, it is you who summoned Eco here. Didn't you ask for her because you miss her?”

After Ash said this, Mother dragon closed her eyes and the shadows of her long eyelashes showed on her white skin.

“…That’s right. I was, at the beginning. But I changed my mind in the end. I decided that it is better not to meet with Eco. I shall tell you everything you need to know and please allow Eco to sleep where she is.”

“But!”

“Even if we were to meet, I won’t be able to treat her like a daughter. That’s why, it is better for us that we do not meet. Also, even without a mother, Eco will still have you as her knight and Princess Silvia as a friend who would help her at any cost. And of course, the dragons in the Knight Country are on Eco’s side. She doesn't need anything else as far as I can see.”

“… I understand.”

Though he would still like to reason with her, Mother Dragon seemed to have made up her mind and nothing could change it.

“Then, lets proceed to our main topic.”

Ash became nervous once this was said.

“I know about Eco’s awakening in Fontaine City that happened days ago.”

“I beg your pardon for not being able to protect Eco properly…”

“We can’t do anything about the past, and I am not here to lecture you. However, the power of the Avalon Holy Dragon Emperor is enormous. It could even destroy this planet if misused. The Eco right now isn't mentally mature enough and can't control her powers properly. Just days before, didn't that child try transforming because of some trivial matter?”

“I-I am really sorry about that.”

Ash was surprised. It seemed that Mother Dragon knew everything. But that indeed was some trivial matter. Eco was going to transform into a dragon because of a quarrel with Silvia over a stuffed toy… Although Ash managed to stop Eco from transforming by hugging her, that was just because he was lucky.

“The action that Nehalennia's dark dragons’ king Mordred and the Empire’s army is taking is indeed worrisome. Also, Chevron Kingdom, Holy Espada Agency and Labrock Trade Union are taking notice of the incident of the huge dragon that appeared in Fontaine City.”

After she finished speaking, Mother Dragon took out something. It was a silver bracelet. The exquisite carving on the bracelet was somewhat similar to Ash’s Seikoku.

“This is…”

“This is Avalon’s Bracelet. As long as Eco wears this, she will not transform into a dragon no matter what kind of a situation she is in. Apart from that, she could even learn to control her powers with it. Once she has gotten used to it, she will be able to transform when she takes the bracelet off.”

“Really!?”

Ash leaned forward. At the moment Eco wasn't able to consciously control her transformation. That’s why she almost transformed due to some trivial matter. However, with this Avalon’s Bracelet, she could control her transformation, is what Mother Dragon had said.

“…Because of some selfish people, the mighty being of the descendant of the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family was exposed in front of everyone. This is a serious problem for both humans and dragons. From today onward, there will be people appearing before her with the intention of making use of her powers. Please never forget that it is both hers and your responsibility as her knight to make use of the power of Avalon.”

“I will keep that in my heart.”

Ash who was moved by Mother Dragon’s words answered sincerely. He could feel the weight of the bracelet in his palm after receiving it from Mother Dragon.

“Then, I shall end our meeting here. I shall now send you back to the entrance-”

As soon as she had done her job, Mother Dragon once again spoke in an official tone for sending them off. But Ash had become nervous.

“Hold on! Actually… I have something that I need to ask you no matter what.”

“May I know what that is?”

“I… I had lost all my memories about the time of my Orphan Ceremony. But since I had returned to this sacred place, I began to remember parts of them. About how I met Princess-sama in the forest… And later being called out by you. And also the things that I did against your will for Princess-sama's sake.”

Mother Dragon sighed.

“That's right. I was indeed surprised. At the beginning, I intended to entrust Lancelot to you. Although it is not a direct descendant, Lancelot is still a high status dragon whose bloodline is related to the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family.”

“Really! Lancelot is Eco’s relative…!? But why did you not entrust an Orphan to Princess-sama?”

“Unfortunately, Silvia Lautreamont doesn't have the quality to become a Dragner.”

Ash was getting angry even though the person speaking was Mother Dragon.

“That can’t be! Princess-sama was always top in her results in the academy!”

“That’s because of her personal efforts.”

“Doesn't that mean she is gifted?”

“Both of them are not related. She was just replacing her lack of talent with her hard work.”

“Isn't that the same?”

“It is not that her hard work was all for naught… If she continues to polish herself, she will definitely become a great Paladin who will be able to lead this Lautreamont Knight Country. However, no matter how much effort she puts forth, it is a cruel truth but she will never be able to surpass Ash Blake.”

Ash was not at all happy after being praised. But, there will be clashes in opinion between Ash who grew up in a human community and Mother Dragon who was responsible for the existence of the dragons. There was no point in continuing to argue, Ash still had something else he wanted to ask.

“I… I want to know what happened during my Orphan Ceremony. I could only recall my memories until the moment I went against your will and lost my left arm… I couldn't remember anything beyond that.”

“Fine. Since you have taken a long journey to Albion Forest, I will show it to you as a gift.”

Mother Dragon stretched out her arms and placed them on Ash’s face. Ash’s heart skipped a beat after noticing the sweet scent.

“Mother…?”

“Please close your eyes. I will send you the necessary information.”

After that, Mother Dragon pressed her forehead on Ash’s. Ash noticed that her forehead was cold. In a split second, a vast amount of information flowed into Ash’s mind and his memories started appearing.

===Part 21===
“Kyaaaaaaaaa!”

The girl shrieked and then she lost consciousness. Together with her stuffed dragon toy, both of them fell to the ground. Ash’s foolish action had successfully transferred the Seikoku onto the girl’s chest. That Seikoku on her chest was indeed the one that was previously on Ash’s hand.

“Haha… I did it… I really did it…!”

His left arm that was blasted apart was still dripping with blood. He then dropped dead on the ground with a smile on his face.Mother Dragon who was still in the form of a dragon transformed into a woman and landed beside Ash. Seeing Ash’s pale face, Mother Dragon spoke indifferently -

“What a foolish boy… But, Ash Blake, it is a pity if I do not save a rare talent like you. Although this may ''deviate from the original plan,'' I will place my bets on you.”

Mother Dragon held her hands in front of her chest. There was a strong light forming in both her palms. The light intensity kept on increasing till the entire shrine was filled with light. But then, his memories immediately moved to a second scene.

===Part 22===
“Uwaaa!”

Ash woke up in the forest from the shock. At the same time, he remembered the events in the shrine. He hurriedly took a look at his left arm and found that it was still in one piece. Even his sleeve that had been blasted apart together with his arm seemed fine.

“What happened?”

Ash tried clenching his fist and releasing it. There didn't seem to be any problem. It just felt like his arm didn't be belong to him. It felt more like a borrowed arm. But before he even rolled up his sleeve, he remembered the girl.

“That girl…”

He spotted the girl immediately was lying in a place not far from Ash. Though she still hadn't regained consciousness, she was breathing normally while cuddling her toy.

“I’m glad nothing bad happened.”

Ash breathed a sigh of relief. At the same time, he felt that something was off. He was certain that her cloth was torn while he was transferring his Seikoku to her… But it now looked the same it did the fist time he meet her. Did someone mend her cloth just as they did Ash’s?

“That’s right, I have to make sure…”

Ash gulped when he stretched his hand towards the girl. He must first untie the ribbon at her collar…

“I am not doing anything bad…”

When he was mumbling to himself while untying the ribbon…

“Nnn…”

The girl moaned.

“Uwaa!”

Ash had the shock of his life and retreated from the girl.

“Huh? Why… Why am I in the forest?”

The girl sat up slowly. She was sleepily looking around at her surroundings.

“Right! My body is…”

The girl placed her toy by her knee and started untying her ribbon.

“Hey! What are you doing!?”

The girl ignored Ash while she continued to unbutton herself. In a few moments, she was showing her white chest. Ash tried to avert his eyes but he was stopped by the girl.

“Look properly! I want you to look properly!”

Her serious expression didn't make her look like a seven year old.

“Eh…?”

Ash took a peek at the girl’s chest timidly. Her skin was like snow. There was a symbol carved on her flat chest. Ash couldn't be wrong. It was the Seikoku that was once on his left hand.

“So… It was not a dream.”

Ash mumbled. After allowing Ash to see her Seikoku, she buttoned her dress.

“Basically, I don’t remember any of the details. But what I know is… Originally, this Seikoku belonged to you… It was entrusted to you by Mother Dragon. Am I right?”

“No, that is…”

Ash was at lost for words.

“You don’t have to hide it. Because of you, I am able to become a Breeder. Right now, there is an Orphan inside my body. It is hard for me to explain… But I can feel it.”

“Really. Isn't that great?”

As Ash started smiling, the girl became angry.

“There’s nothing great about it! I… I am in debt to you. It is a debt that… I can never repay! Please tell me what should I do!”

Ash panicked as soon as he saw the girl becoming mad.

“No, aren't you exaggerating?”

“Nothing of the sort! From the beginning, I never had the qualification to become a Breeder. I couldn't even see Mother Dragon…”

At that point, tears started falling from her eyes. Ash gave her a wry smile and placed his hand on her head.

“…Tsk, what a crybaby. How are you to become a great Dragner?”

“Even if you say that…”

“If you really want to repay me, please don’t cry anymore. It is a promise.”

The girl then lifted her head and wiped the tears with her sleeve. A new expression appeared on her face, as if the tears moments ago were lies.

“You… No, I swear to thee. I will never cry again. And I promise that I will become a great Dragner!”

The way she spoke looked magnificent and looked as if she was surrounded by golden winds.

“That’s the spirit.”

Both of them smiled. Unnoticed by them, they were holding each other’s hand.

“Please do become a great Dragner for my sake.”

“I will.”

At that moment, the horn that signified the end of the ceremony was blown.

“So it has ended.”

With this, Ash lost his only chance to become a Breeder. It was fate that he had to return to his village empty handed but he was not going to regret it.

“…Erm, if you don’t mind, would you like to have this child?”

The girl somehow thought of something and handed him her dragon toy. As usual, it still looked clumsily made but right now, he thought that it was cute.

“For me?”

“Thanks to you, I have received an Orphan. I no longer need this child.”

“Thank you very much.”

The girl smiled as Ash took the toy. That was the first time the girl smiled in front of Ash.

===Part 23===

After that, both of them were separated under the protection of the Albion Forest Military Order. After Ash returned to the novitiate, he had a body checkup and found out that he had an abnormal Seikoku on his left arm. Since he was busy chit chatting with that beautiful girl, he never noticed anything before the checkup. Ash lost consciousness from the shock and was struck with a high fever for seven days. After the fever had passed, Ash forgot everything about his Orphan Ceremony. What was left after Ash had lost his memories was a left hand filled with Seikoku and a stuffed dragon toy.

===Part 24===
Mother Dragon let go of Ash’s body and said:

“The reason your memories were lost was because of the side effect of receiving the Orphan of the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family. It was actually caused by the huge amount of energy that entered your body that caused the confusion."

“I see…”

“When you defied me, there were only two choices that I could make. I could either let you die or entrust you with Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family’s descendant to allow your arm to grow back.”

“So it won’t happen without Eco?”

“The normal Dragon Orphan doesn't have the rejuvenating ability. Only the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family is an exception.”

After hearing what she had said, Ash looked at his left arm once again.

“This left arm is not your previous arm.”

“Eh!? What do you mean?”

“Hmm… The Seikoku replaced the function of your lost arm by changing into the shape of one. Do you now understand?”

“Is that… true?”

Ash was staring at his left arm.

“Your Seikoku is different from all the normal Seikoku. It is a special family crest only for the knight of Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family.”

Mother Dragon closed her eyes while telling him the shocking truth.

“Actually, I should still be keeping Eco for a few more years.”

Ash took a few moments to digest what she had said and was shocked by it.

“What you mean is… If I did not defy you and accept Lancelot… Eco would have become someone else’s Pal?”

“That’s right. The person had been selected. Like you, that person bears the chalice<ref>聖杯. Seihai. Also means holy grail.</ref>.”

“Chalice…?”

Ash was surprised but Mother Dragon immediately kept her mouth shut and sighed.

“…I have said too much. You will understand one day.”

Ash could not help but wonder why she wouldn't say anything about it.

“Then, I have one last question. Why is Eco born in the form of a human? Is everyone in Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family born similar to her?”

Mother Dragon lifted her head slowly. Ash wasn't able to move while holding her gaze.

“No, that’s not it. Eco is actually a special being. In other words, she bears the hope and despair of all dragons.”

“You mean…?”

“In the near future, all dragons will go extinct. I can produce fewer and fewer Orphans. At most, dragons can only live for another century.”

“…!”

“Wise dragon Albion’s magic that ties humans and dragons together is just a method to extend the lifespan of the dragons.”

“Is it because of the lack of Astral?”

“That’s right. Astral is a formless energy that provides life to all living beings on this planet. A living being that can't supply it's own Astral is the same as being given up by the planet. They can only face extinction.”

“…I learned that from school.”

“Whatever the case, this planet considered anyone with a vast amount of magic as a threat and started removing them. Or you could say that the planet is cleaning itself up. On the other hand, humans who possess no magic are full of Astral.”

After speaking for some time, Mother Dragon changed the subject.

“By the way, do you know about the Elves?”

“They are an imaginary race. They have the same pointy ears as the Eckbalds…”

“That’s not true. Elves certainly once roamed the ancient world. They were a race with magic as strong as us dragons. In the end, they perished because of the lack of Astral… Actually, their mighty bloodline is continued by the Eckbalds.”

“You are saying that Eckbalds are the descendants of the Elves!?”

Ash mumbled while trying to recall Lucca's face.

“That’s right. Only the descendants of the Elves could perform the Dragon Riding Dance that the Eckbalds are proud of.”

“Is that so? I knew nothing of it.”

“Now, the dragons have come up with the same conclusion.”

“Could it be that…?!”

Ash felt that a thunder had struck him.

“Exactly, Eco was born as a human with dragon’s blood. After some time, she should be able to mate with a human and give birth.”

“-Really!”

Ash felt that his cheeks were on fire. He remembered the time when Eco was drunk with Ansal and wanted to have Ash’s child.

“That’s the truth. This body of mine is an illusion created by magic… But Eco’s is different. Her body is made to be the same as a human girl.”

“So… Eco will be able to become pregnant with a child…”

Ash kept on mumbling the same phrase. Then, Mother Dragon was again determined to send him off.

“That’s all for now. I shall speak to you no more. It is time for us to part.”

At the same time Mother Dragon sang the spell, his vision was filled with white light.

===Part 25===
“Urgh…”

Ash was once again in the forest after he woke up. Both Eco and Silvia were lying on the ground. Both of them had yet to wake up but it seemed that they no longer had their nightmare. Both of them were holding each other’s hands like great friends. The stuffed toy was almost squashed between both of them. Ash then stared at the old tree right in front of him.

''How long has this tree existed?'' It looked like a sacred tree on first glance. He then placed his hand on the tree trunk and tried to feel it.

At that moment, Ash heard a soft voice.

''-Please take good care of Eco.''

“That sound…!”

Ash was surprised but he couldn't be wrong. It was certainly the voice of a kind mother, the voice of Mother Dragon.

“Could it be that… This tree… Is Mother Dragon’s true form!?”

He tried touching the trunk one more time but he could no longer hear the voice. But the tree in front of him gave the same feeling as Mother Dragon.

“That being said…”

Ash had forgotten one question. How does Mother Dragon continue living without a Pal. If this tree is really Mother Dragon… Mother Dragon definitely absorbed the Astral directly from the earth through her roots. Just like how plants absorb Astral. It was probably an idea thought of by the dragons. But, the problem was, a part of the tree was rotting. Mother Dragon was probably dying. That was why the extinction of the dragons was nearing.

''Mother Dragon probably knew that her days are limited and didn't want to meet with Eco.'' Ash secretly thought.

There was a cold wind in the summer forest and it made Ash feel lonely.

“…No, I must not keep on being sad.”

Ash lifted his head. What Mother Dragon hoped to see is not him being sad. Ash collected himself and turned around with his back facing the tree.

“Right! We shall now head back to the novitiate!”

But he should first wake both Eco and Silvia. Ash gave them a wry smile and ran to their side.

"The Forest of Albion~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 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 4

2018-10-11T17:00:57Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring done up to Part 6. The rest will follow soon.

==Chapter 4 - Lost memories, Albion Forest==
===Part 1===
At dawn, Silvia who suddenly woke up felt something on her chest.

“Hey, Eco! Where do you think you are sleeping!?”

“Zzzz…”

Like a child sucking on its mother’s breast, Eco buried her face in Silvia’s chest. Apart from that, her right hand was even grabbing onto Silvia’s breast. Silvia’s breast shook from Eco moving her fingers.

“Aah… Nnn… I-If you touch it like that… Aah…!”

Without thinking, Silvia sat up to calm down herself, she pulled Eco’s arm away with some force.

“Tsk… How rude can you be…”

She was embarrassed at herself for making those unladylike sounds. It was sometime past six when she looked at the clock placed by the side of her pillow. Usually, it was around that time Cosette would wake her up.

“How careless of me! How can I…!”

Although it was summer holidays right now, Silvia’s pride still didn't allow negligence. After giving herself a few light slaps on the both cheeks, she stood up from the bed. She usually started her day with some independent training,<ref>Should be any kind of training without a coach according to my dictionary.</ref> afterwards she would feed Lancelot herself. This was her usual routine.

“Ermm… My dragsuit… Where is my dragsuit…?”

Being forced to take care of her own clothings, Silvia realised painfully how much she was usually relying on Cosette. Right at that moment…

''-Doooooom!''

There was a familiar sound outside of the window.

“Is that… The sound of a Strada landing?”

Surprised, Silvia opened the window. Just as expected by Silvia, when she looked down on the garden of Epona House, there was a familiar strada. And a crater was formed around it.

“Tsk… Your riding ability is indeed one of the best but you should change that emergency landing habit of yours. It causes quite some trouble…”

Silvia sighed.

The rider was a lady and she was wearing a moss green coloured uniform. Once she noticed Silvia, she immediately leaped off the saddle and greeted:

"I am the first-class palace messenger, Olietta Blanc! I am here to send the letter that was to be received by Princess Silvia, Her Royal Highness from Cosette Shelley-dono!"

“…From Cosette!?”

Unconsciously Silvia gripped the window frame putting all her strength into it.

===Part 2===
After seeing Olietta off, Silvia walked towards the seventh dragon house. Since it was summer holidays, there were no other dragons except Lancelot inside. Lancelot too had woken up early to match with Silvia. In contrast to Eco, Lancelot was a dragon who followed the rules.

“Sorry for the wait, Lancelot. It is time for breakfast.”

After Silvia placed the defrosted meat in front of Lancelot, Lancelot cried in joy and started enjoying its food. Silvia then took out the letter with her back facing Lancelot. It was the letter that she just received from Olietta.

''-I want you to return to the palace and investigate the name list of the children who went to the orphan ceremony at the same day as me.''

Cosette who obeyed Silvia’s orders to return to the palace had taken the trouble to contact Silvia through the palace messenger.

“Did she manage to find it? Or did anything unexpected happen…?”

Her heart was thumping like the morning alarm. A little courage was required before she was able to tear open the envelope.

'''Dear Princess-sama,'''

'''How are you? Right now, I am staying at Fontaine Palace.'''

'''About the investigation, it seems that five years ago a fire had burnt off a part of the documents related to the Orphan Ceremony.'''

'''Among those documents was the name list of the children who succeeded in the Orphan Ceremony in the past ten years.'''

'''Even so, the information that I obtained states that these documents were a copy and the original name list was kept at a different place.'''

'''I will now continue my search at the location of the name list.'''

'''Please be patient while waiting for the news.'''

'''Cosette . Shelley.'''

Silvia was worn out and gave a long sigh after she finished reading. Lancelot gave Silvia a curious peek.

Silvia grumbled while grooming Lancelot’s fur:

“Tsk… Where in the world is that ‘Location’? Even thought she is a person who has a keen eye for details, it is troublesome when she has forgotten to write the most important thing…”

===Part 3===
After their breakfast, Ash together with Eco and Silvia went to the director’s office. Although it was in the middle of summer holidays, Mirabel was still at the director’s office. She seemed to be reading some difficult books. On top of her table was a mountain load of documents. The working room itself looked more like a private room. Mirabel spoke in a cold voice:

“What’s the matter?”

She said that while looking at her own documents.

“We have something to ask from Anee-ue. It is about the practical test.”

Ash was glad that Silvia spoke first. Ash was bad while dealing with Princess Mirabel. To him, Veronica seemed a lot more easier to deal with. After hearing that, Mirabel closed her book without changing her expression.

“So you have decided on your destination?”

“Yeah. We would like to head to Albion Forest.”

Mirabel tilted her head a little after Silvia answered directly.

“Your chosen destination is located at quite a remote area. Apart from that, Albion Forest is a sacred place. That place should be tightly guarded by the Albion Forest Military Order.”

“Of course I know that. However, Ash and Eco must head there. And I intend to help them.”

“Could you tell me their reasons for that?”

Ash was shivering from Mirabel’s sharp glance. But now was not the time to stay frightened.

“Ermm… Actually…”

Just when Ash was about to answer…

“Hold on!”

Suddenly, Mirabel stopped him and took out a watch. Ash was shocked seeing the royal’s solemnity.

“It is tea time, Eunice.”

“On my way, Princess-sama.”

Eunice who was like a statue spoke for the first time.

“Hey! How can you drink tea when someone was halfway through his talk!”

Ash grumbled at Mirabel who was doing things at her own pace.

“Do you have a problem with that?”

Her ice magic like glare was putting pressure on Ash.

“No, sorry for bothering you…”

After Ash’s voice turned softer, the room was filled with the smell of bergamot. Taking a look to the side, Eco was sniffing around. It seemed that she took interest in Mirabel’s red tea. It was a different type of interest compared to Ansal. But it was indeed a smell that a dragon would fall in love with. Eunice spoke when she saw Eco’s interest:

“Would the three of you like a cup of tea?”

===Part 4===
The three of them were sitting together on a sofa. Ash who had no interest in tea could only think of ‘It has a nice aroma’. However, it was different for Eco.

“This is wonderful… This is the first time I drank such a great cup of tea.”

Silvia explained to the amazed Eco:

“Anee-ue is very picky about red teas. By the way, this tea is called Earl Gloriana from Chalone.”

“Earl… Groo…?”

Eco almost bit her tongue.

“This kind of tea leaf is famous in the world. You should enjoy it properly.”

“Is that so? I didn't know…”

Eco was enjoying her tea happily.

“Erm… Princess-sama, shouldn't we start with the main topic?’

Ash noticed that it was bad to keep on talking about teas and so he urged on Silvia.

“Aah. That’s right. Can we start now, Anee-ue?”

“You have my permission.” agreed Mirabel.

===Part 5===
Mirabel’s expression never changed during Silvia’s entire explanation. It was even the same when Silvia mentioned about Ash and Eco being summoned by Mother Dragon. Mirabel said something after Silvia finished.

“I understand your situation. Good job for getting the idea of finishing two tasks in one trip. However, Ash Blake, there is one problem. How do you intend to head there? It will take you two weeks to reach there by land. Or do you intend to let Eco transform into a dragon?”

Mirabel glance was like a blizzard approaching Ash.[[Image:SnRK v05 162.jpg|thumb]]

“No, that is impossible. Eco cannot control her transformation consciously.”

“Sorry for being useless…”

Eco puffed up her cheeks. Even so, it was the truth that she couldn't control her own transformation. There was nothing she could do about it. Right after that, Mirabel threw Eco a cold glance.

“Young dragon Eco, there is nothing bad in being useless. It is a matter of life and death for the Knight Country when you transform at a poor time. Because of you crushing the Empire’s airship Beowolf, the Knight Country’s government is having a headache.”

“Urgh…”

Eco turned speechless. Even she felt responsible for it. That’s right. Using the reason of Eco’s dragon form crushing Beowolf, the Empire’s government kept on protesting. According to the latest news, to achieve peace, the Knight Country’s government intended to pay the compensation. Of course at the same time it will cause an impact on the Knight Country’s financial situation.

“But the entire matter is the Empire’s fault to begin with…”

Ash said what he truthfully thought in front of Mirabel.

“Whatever the case may be, it is also the truth that the Empire’s airship was destroyed by a dragon. If the situation was any worse, it could turn into an all out war. Shouldn't we be glad, if we can have this settled by only paying money?”

For the first time, Mirabel kept her eyes away from the documents she was reading and looked at Ash, Silvia and Eco.

“With that, if you can take back an item that can only be found in Albion, I will consider you passing the exam. About that… In this season a flower called Rex Albioni should be blooming. How about it?”

Ash had heard the name of the flower before. It was a flower that could only be found in Albion Forest. Every summer, its white coloured flowers would bloom.

“Understood. We will definitely return with Rex Albioni.”

After she declared this, Silvia turned her sight towards Ash and Eco.

“It had been decided. Please prepare your stuff as soon as possible. We will depart tomorrow morning!”

“Aah… That’s right. But…”

Silvia was confused when she saw that Ash was hesitating.

“What’s wrong? Are you still worrying about anything?”

Ash nodded and looked at Mirabel.

“Ermm… Princess Mirabel?”

“Anything else the matter?”

“You had certainly said that you were here in Ansarivan under Princess Veronica’s orders… But the actual reason is to keep an eye on Eco, am I right?”

“That’s right. That is what the '''muscle freak’s''' intention.”

“M-Muscle…!?”

“Ara, do you even have to be surprised? What I am saying is the truth.”

Ash was surprised that Mirabel described the heroine-like character of Veronica with just ‘muscle freak’. It seemed that Mirabel didn't think that it is worth respecting Veronica at all.

“P-Putting that aside… Is it really all right for you to allow us to leave your sight? Doesn't it contradict with Veronica’s intention?”

Mirabel suddenly placed her tea cup on the table.

“Hmm, you are smarter than I thought you were. But, you don’t have to worry about your assumptions. To me, Veronica’s orders are nothing.”

“What do you mean?”

“Let’s assume that Eco once again turned into a dragon, what could we do about it? If there is a person who can stop this disaster, it can only be Ash Blake the owner of Eco. And we are not Ash Blake, are we?”

“That… That may be true but why would you take the trouble to come to Ansarivan?”

“With or without Veronica’s orders, I have my own personal matter to solve in Ansarivan. And that’s the sole reason.”

“What kind of a matter is that? Is it possible for you to tell us about it?”

“The answer is NO<ref>This is spoken in English.</ref>. You shall not ask anything beyond this.”

Mirabel refusing to answer Ash’s question was like putting an end to their conversation. She once again had her attention back on her documents.

===Part 6===
On the next morning, Ash, Eco and Silvia who had done their preparation departed from Ansarivan while they rode on Lancelot together.

“It is all up to you, Lancelot!”

After Silvia shouted, Lancelot gave a cheerful roar. Since part of their journey's reason was for the practical test, Ash and Silvia were wearing their dragsuits. And Eco as Ash’s Pal was wearing her uniform to show that she too was taking the exam. Their sitting sequence was Silvia who held the reins at the front, followed by Eco and Ash. Actually, right before they took flight, Eco said that she would like to take the middle. Thus, Ash was at the end of the line. Ash was holding onto Eco’s slim waist. Although he was embarrassed, he would face falling off Lancelot if he did not grab on it tightly.

“Oooooooo….!”

Even with three people on its back, Lancelot was flying without having to break a sweat. The sky was clear and since it was still early in the day, the weather was cool. However, when noon arrived, the sun would be scorching. Thus it would be better for them to reach at their destination as soon as possible.

“Err, Princess-sama. What do you think Princess Mirabel’s reason was?”

Ash finally asked the question that was on his mind for some time.

''At first, I thought Mirabel was here to keep an eye on Eco. But, for Mirabel to have her own reason…''

“How am I to know that?”

Silvia snapped.

“To begin with, about Princess Mirabel… What kind of a person is she? Like Princess Veronica, it is obvious to everyone that she is a fighter.”

Silvia answered while holding the reins:

“Mirabel Onee-sama is a very respectable scholar. Just a few days ago, she was still doing her research in Espada St Law University.”

“…She must have been famous. Does she have any connections with Holy Espada Agency?”

“Certainly. Espada St Law University is directly under the Holy Agency’s secret service. Regardless of humanities studies or science related fields, all the genius' in their regarding field were doing their best for their research there.”

“That’s absurd…”

Even though he didn't know Mirabel’s age, she only looked older by a year or two than Silvia and was still in her teenage years. Even so, for a girl at her age to reserve a spot in the secret service, she was someone to be feared. Ash finally remembered her nickname- ''Argento Magus.''

“Erm, what is the field Princess Mirabel specialized in?”

“She had already obtained a mechanical engineering degree and an archaeological degree. She seems to have a deep interest in sacred relics that are found in historic ruins.”

“Sacred relic… What are those?”

“You knew nothing of those! In this Ark Strada continent, there are many historic ruins. There are the so called Zono Ton’s<ref>An ancient civilization mentioned in the Japanese version.</ref> Enlightenment’s historic ruins.”

Ash remembered he learned about it in his history lessons.

“It includes the Zono Ton’s Ark which is a huge historical ruin that was found in the Empire. In it, many ancient machines were found. That includes the airships that run on fossil fuel and magicships that run on Millennium. All these ancient machines were called sacred relics.”

“So, Princess Mirabel is a specialist in those things that are called sacred relics?”

“That’s right. She was even deeply involved in the development of the Silvanus Magicship of our country. With the help from exiled scientists from the Empire, they turned the excavated magic engine in the country into a ‘usable’ state. Apart from that, she was even in charge of the ship design.”

“Really!? She is such an incredible person!”

“Just that Silvanus was badly damaged in the previous fight.”

“About that… I deeply apologize.”

Ash sighed.

“Sorry…”

Eco who listened to their conversation silently also apologized.

“No, the two of you don’t have to worry about it. I know that the Empire is the culprit and Silvanus is currently being repaired. Even though I initially thought that it was completely destroyed, it seems that the magic engine remained unscathed, just narrowly. If the engine is all right, the outer shell can be easily replaced.”

This was the first time Ash heard about this. After it crashed and exploded, Ash never even thought that it could be repaired.

“Is that so…? Thank god. God bless us all.”

To give Eco a peace in her mind, Ash kept on emphasizing the word ‘thank god’.

“Just that, why would a genius like her come to Ansarivan? There is nothing related to mechanical engineering here. Judging from her behavior, she should be able to ignore Princess Veronica’s order.”

In Ansarivan where there are many dragons, there were many tool made from bright dragon crystal. The bright dragon crystal powered lamp is one of them. Because of this, most of the things in Ansarivan were not related to mechanical engineering and that made it stand out from the Knight Country.

“I also feel the same way. Mirabel Onee-sama was never afraid of Veronica Onee-sama. Normally, she could use her studies as an excuse to refuse. But why would Mirabel Onee-sama who even refused to attend the continental congress with her studies as a reason come to Ansarivan… I wonder.”

“Could it be that she took interest in Eco? Even Angela-sensei became a teacher in the academy because she was interested in Eco… Although I didn't see any sign of her for the recent few days.”

“That’s impossible. Mirabel Onee-sama is a person who would only be interested in mechanics. I don’t think her target is Eco.”

Ash breathed a sigh of relief after Silvia ensured him. Recently, Eco seemed to be emotionally unstable. Ash hoped that nothing will happen, at best.

===Part 7===
Thanks to Lancelot’s effort, the group had arrived at Albion Forest at dusk.

After traveling under the scorching sun for the entire afternoon, they now experience the cool evening wind.

Around the entrance of the forest was a row of old buildings that looked abandoned.

Apart from the cathedral, there was also the novitiate and the quarters. Just by looking for the top, you can feel that those are as old as history itself.

The land was very wide and there was the livestock hut and the vegetable farm. Not to forget about the vineyard. Albion’s grape wine is very famous and they even export them to the Chevron kingdom.

Looking at the scene below him, Ash muttered:

“Is that… Albion’s novitiate?”

That was the base for Albion Forest Military Order. Although Ash had lost almost all his memories regarding his Orphan Ceremony, but he had a feeling that he miss this place.

“Lancelot, land in front of the gate.”

After receiving its orders, Lancelot started to lower their altitude. Finally, they managed to land safely in front of the gate.

“Gurrr…”

After that, Lancelot rolled itself into a ball and slept. It had used up all its magic in that flight. On a first glance, the dragon who fly with its huge wings actually spent a huge amount of magic.

“Thanks for the hard work.”

Silvia released the reins and patted Lancelot.

“Thank you, Lancelot.”

Ash thanked Lancelot after he had alighted from it. Then, he spread his arms while looking at Eco who was still on Lancelot.

“Hey, Eco! Hoop on.”

Of course that height won’t cause any injuries and Ash was just being thoughtful.

“Nn… Okay.”

Eco placed a hand on her skirt to keep her panties from being seen. Then she jumped from the saddle.

Eco who once was not at all bothered by her naked body being seen was now embarrassed to even show her panties. Her recent changes can only be described as shocking.

Eco landed in between Ash’s arms.

“Thank you…”

Eco thanked Ash while red in the face and land on the ground.

“Err… Anything wrong, Princess-sama?

Ash suddenly noticed that Silvia was staring at them.

She suddenly blushed.

“I-I am not jealous at all! I never thought about it! No matter what you say, I am a Dragner, not a damsel that had to be protected by a knight!”

Silvia never noticed that she was making it worst at the same time she tried to reason.

Ash gave a wry smile and spread his arms in from of Silvia.

“You too, Princess-sama.”

“That's why I said you don’t have to…!”

Although she refused, still she ended up jumping.

However, the skirt for the ladies’ dragsuit is short and when she stood up, the white cloth that wrapped around her skin was seen by Ash.

“H-Hey! If you stand like that…!”

Ash’s shout made Silvia notice.

“Eh?... H-Hey! Where are you looking at- Kyaa!”

Silvia hurriedly tried to hide her panty but in the end she lost her balance. She gave a little groan while she fell.

“Watch out!”

Ash immediately head out and caught Silvia. However, due to the weight of the Dragsuit and her falling momentum…

“Uwaa!”

Ash fell with Silvia in his arms. At the same time, he felt something soft on his face.

Of course they were Silvia’s breasts.

“Urgh!”

The shape of her breasts changes and had his face covered as Ash kept on struggling

But the sweet moment only lasted for a short time. Ash felt that he was actually suffocating and finally pushed Silvia away with force.

“Princess-sama… Please… I beg you……”

“Sorry!”

Silvia hurriedly stood up.

“Huff… I am glad that Princess-sama is alright-? Eco… What’s wrong?”

“…”

Eco crossed her arms unhappily and turned her face to aside. Even when Ash kept trying to ask her but she refused to even look at him.

“…I thought that was only for me.”

Unfortunately, Ash didn’t catch what Eco was mumbling about.

“Erm… Dragner-samas, this place is actually a sacred place thus you may not enter…”

And, there was a person mumbling behind them. Ash then turned around.

The person was a girl. Her age was around ten. She looked like she was in the middle of sweeping since she had a broom in her hand. She looked small and plain like a hamster.

In contrast to her cute face, her white coloured dressing and her long skirt made her looked sacred.

“No, we are not any weird person…”

Silvia immediately stopped Ash who was trying to explain.

“I am the Fourth Princess of the Knight Country, Silvia Lautreamont and who are you?”

“P-Princess!?”

The girl dropped her broom and knelled down on the spot as if she was trying to prostrate herself before Silvia’s feet.

“I-I am sorry for not being able to recognize you! I am called Kurae! I am the priestess of this Albion Forest’s novitiate!”

Her bowing her forehead down many times had caused Ash and Silvia to feel uneasy.

“P-Please stand up. Even though I'm a princess, I'm still a student. Furthermore, I came here today for my private matters. So please stand up.”

“Aaa… Thank you very much.”

Kurae respectfully held Silvia’s hands when she stood up from the ground.

“It is great since you are a priestess. Could we borrow a moment of your time?”

Ash picked up the broom that was laying on the floor and passed it back to Kurae. She took it back without a second thought and looked at him suspiciously.

“…You are?”

“I am Ash Blake, a Dragner.”

Ash took out his silver watch.

All the children who dreamed of becoming a Dragner and always been dreaming of being in that situation. Ash somehow was feeling proud.

The moment she saw the silver watch, Kurae’s eyes were like almond and kept staring at it.

“So, that handsome dragon… Is Ash-sama’s Pal?”

“No… Lancelot is Princess-sama’s Pal.”

Kurae was confused.

“Then, where is Ash-sama’s Pal?”

“Ehh… My Pal is…”

Ash placed an arm on Eco’s shoulders but he didn’t notice Eco trembled a little at the moment his arm was placed.

“She is my Pal, Eco.”

“……”

Eco was embarrassed and was fidgeting in front of Kurae like a child. If it was the past Eco, she would definitely reply with a scold when she felt that the situation was against her…

Kurae’s expression suddenly changed and kept on staring at Eco’s head.

“Although she looked exactly like human, those are unmistakable horns. So, you really are young dragon Eco!”

“Huh? Do you know Eco?”

Kurae replied Ash who asked in surprise with a smile:

“That’s right. Just days before, I had received an oracle from Mother Dragon. She told me about it in my dream.”

“Really!?”

“In the novitiate’s record, it had been five hundred years since Mother Dragon had given us an oracle.”

Kurae said proudly however it doesn’t look impressive when she said it with a broom in her hand.

“Five hundred years!... That’s wonderful!”

Ash was awed.

“Even my grandfather had a heart attack after he heard about it.”

“Wha… Is he alright?”

Ash asked timidly but Kurae replied with a bitter smile.

“He is still as lively as ever. By the way, my grandfather is Albion Forest military order’s leader. He is a great man!”

“That make things simpler. Then, we will greet your grandfather later. Erm, may I ask what is mentioned in the oracle?”

“The Mother Dragon told me that ‘in the coming days, Dragner Ash and Eco the direct descendant of Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family
will be visiting Albion.’ Mother Dragon also reminded me that Eco will be in the form of a human."

Kurae stood up straight and smile.

“Welcome to the holy land of Albion. I welcome you with all my heart.”

===Part 8===
Ash and the rest passed through the gates while being led by Kurae.

Along the way, they walked past a few priests and nuns who looked at them in surprise which made them feel uneasy. As far as it goes, although they were known as knights<ref>the military order had the kanji of knight in it.</ref>, they didn’t feel like one.

The direction that Kurae was heading was a stone building at a corner.

“My grandfather’s office is right here.”

Since she was used to it, Kurae entered without knocking. She was followed by Silvia and right behind her was Ash.

===Part 9===
“I am Albion Forest Military Order’s leader, Casvazu. But I am already an old man. You can call me grandpa.”

The leader of the military order who greeted them was not what they imagined. He was a friendly man. Still, it certainly seemed like he was at an age where a heart attack could happen anytime.

Regardless of his voice, even his movements were trembling. He must be ninety…. No, he could be more than a hundred.

Since he had a long white beard and was wearing a black robe, he looked exactly like a magician from the fairy tales.

“By the way, Princess Silvia… You have grown into a fine woman. I still remember the day you returned from the forest with your orphan, Lancelot.”

“Thank you, grandpa.”

Silvia thanked his politeness respectfully. However, many complicated feelings emerged on her face at the same time.

It was probably because she never told him that the Orphan Lancelot was given to her by Ash which made her feel guilty.

“Erm, who’s the young lad beside you?”

Ash straightened his back when they were talking about him.

“I am Ash Blake.”

The moment his name was mentioned, the old man’s eyebrows twitched.

“Hmm… So you are Ash Blake... Where have I heard this name before…”

The old man paused for a moment and then suddenly he shouted:

“T-That’s it…! Ash! On your left arm… Isn’t there a weirdly shaped Seikoku!?”

“Do you mean this?”

Ash pulled up his sleeve and removed the bandages.

Normally, Ash wouldn’t want anyone to see his Seikoku. But somehow, he didn’t mind this old man seeing it at all.

The old man’s eyes glittered the moment he saw Ash’s Seikoku.

“That’s right…. That’s right…! Hmm… I think I'm beginning to remember…”

Ash became nervous once he heard the words that had a deep meaning to them.

“Really! Actually I… don’t have any memories regarding my Orphan Ceremony. Could you tell me anything about it, anything would be fine.”

To his disappointment, the old man shook his head.

“Sorry… The only thing that I remember is that Seikoku. Prince Julius’s Seikoku was one that was different from the rest…, Yours too was not normal.”

“Grandpa! You know about Anii-ue’s Seikoku!?”

Suddenly, Silvia leaned forward which surprised Ash.

“Princess-sama? Why are you surprise…?”

Silvia immediately came back to her sense and was embarrassed about it.

“That… When I was still a child, I liked to tease Anii-ue. I once said ‘I want to look at your Seikoku’. But, Anii-ue… He remained silent and cut me off. During that time, I was deeply hurt…”

The old man looked at Silvia and said:

“Prince Julius probably had the same feelings as Ash. The prince’s Seikoku totally covered his back… I thought it was a kind of bad omen the first time I saw it. It is not unreasonable for him to dislike anyone seeing it. Who would have thought that my fear really came true…”

As if she was trying to comfort this old man, Silvia told him this:

“Please rests assured. Actually this is a secret, but Anii-ue is actually alive. He was still at Fontaine City just days before, but it is not yet the time to reveal this truth.”

“Huh…? Is that true!? So the prince had overcome his fate!”

Tears were flowing from the old man’s eyes.

“…Emotions can easily overwhelm me at my age…”

The old man took a deep breath and smiled.

“Lucky for you, we won’t be having the Orphan Ceremony tomorrow. You can search for Mother Dragon tomorrow, how about it?”

As for Ash, he wanted to search for Mother Dragon as soon as possible, however it was already dusk. Even though it may be a sacred place, the night forest is still a dangerous place.

“I understand. We will enter Albion Forest tomorrow. Also… Could you tell us of any place near here where we can spend the night?”

“You don’t have to worry about your lodging!”

Ash’s question was immediately answered by Kurae who was standing at the doorway.

“Our novitiate will provide our visitors a place to stay. Though it may be simple and crude, meals are provided.”

“Really!? Thank you. That really helped us, Kurae. Are the two of you alright with this, Princess-sama, Eco?”

Ash turned around and looked at the two.

“I am alright with it.”

“I will be fine if you are okay with it.”

It is a surprise that Eco answered readily regardless of Silvia. The past Eco would definitely say ‘Do we get to have delicious meat?’.

The Eco right now looked more mature and cuter.

However it is also true that it felt weird.

''-Just as I thought, Eco is best when she is full of spirit and eats a lot. What should I do to help her get rid of her problems…?''

Just when Ash was deep in thought-

“…Anything wrong, Ash?”

Silvia asked.

Ash immediately came back to his sense.

“N-Nothing… I am fine.”

“Are you sure? You looked like something was troubling you.”

Ash didn’t know how to react when Silvia hit the bull’s eye. Luckily, Kurae spoke with an innocent smile:

“Everyone, shall we head to the hostel?”

===Part 10===
Ash was muttering to himself in the dark forest.

“Haa… What am I actually doing?”

His legs were heavy and the air around was humid. The air was filled with the smells of tree sap and the earth.

There were insects buzzing around and even caterpillars dropping from the trees.

It always frightened him when he heard the cries from weird birds.

Spiders the size of a fist could be seen anywhere.

When a snake appeared from the ground, everyone would run without embarrassment.

“Tsk… Where had the others gone?”

When he entered Albion Forest, Ash had been walking with a large group of children.

But somehow, Ash was walking alone. It was like the huge forest had swallowed hundreds of children and had them separated.

“Haa…”

He had already lost count of how many times he sighed. Ash then raised his head and looked at the view above.

The trees covered the sky like a roof. Even the tiny amount of sunlight that pierced the canopy looked like it was disappearing.

Ash had traveled far from a village called Alba at the country borders to this forest.

He had come to this sacred place the adults call ‘Albion Forest’.

Of course, he didn’t come here by his own will.

===Part 11===
Days ago, Ash just had his seventh birthday on a horse carriage.

It was about twenty days ago that his mother, his younger sister, the village chief and his friends saw him off. It was snowing on the day he left Alba. In the end, no one was there to celebrate his birthday with him.

He remembered his mother’s advice.

''-In this Lautreamont Knight Country, every child must head to ‘the forest’ on their seventh birthday. If you are gifted, the dragon in the forest will give you an Orphan. That is a honorable thing to have.''

Unfortunately, the young Ash did not feel the need to be honorable.

“Tsk… What an ill looking forest.”

Ash grumbled while he was wandering around.

Finally he stopped.

“*Hick*…”

He thought he heard the voice of a girl crying, but it could be his imagination.

He stood still and tried to listen closely.

“*Sob*…*Sob*…"

This time, he was sure of it.

“I better go have a look.”

Ash ran.

Rather than being worried about the girl, it was more accurate to say that he was looking for a companion.

He kept moving towards the source of that voice.
[[Image:SnRK v05 189.jpg|thumb]]

Ash gasped after passing through the thick bushes.

A girl was sitting under a big tree crying.

There were two reasons for Ash’s gasp.

One was because of the girl’s blonde hair.

Even though they were in the dark forest, her hair was like sparkling gold even when there was only a tiny amount of light. It was not something that could be found at the border in Alba.

The other was because of the girl’s attire.

She was wearing a dress with many jewels of different colours sewn into it. It didn’t look like a dress that should be worn when entering a forest.

Ash cautiously walked towards her and slowly reached out with his hand.

“Are you alright?”

The girl slowly lifted her head.

Looking out from behind the tidy fringes were a pair of wet, ice blue eyes-

===Part 12===
“Princess-sama…!?”

After being surprised by the girl’s beauty, Ash returned from his seven year old self.

And because of that, Ash woke up from his sleep.

He was confused for a moment after waking up in an unfamiliar room but immediately remembered that he was in the hostel for visitors.

It was just a simple room with an old single bed placed by the wall.

Eco and Silvia were not with him. Guys and girls had to sleep separately in the strict novitiate. Both Eco and Silvia were sleeping in the woman’s hostel.

“It is already morning…”

Ash mumbled while looking out the window. The morning rays had brightened up the room and the scenery was just a huge swath of forest with the cries of wild birds heard from beyond.

Ash took a look at his silver watch that was placed by his pillow side and saw that it was just five o’clock.

“What was that dream about…?”

Ash sat up and pushed his sweaty fringes to the side.

Even though the weather was not hot, Ash’s entire body was drenched in sweat. It actually felt like he had been running in the forest.

Ash tried to recall his dream.

He was sure that it was about what happened when he was seven.

He was also sure that it was of the time when he was in Albion Forest.

Ash was having his Orphan Ceremony in his dream.

“Is that what actually happened in my past?”

Once he considered this possibility, Ash’s heart was beating rapidly non-stop.

Since he became Eco’s host, the past that he could never remember- Suddenly appeared in his dream.

''What does this mean?''

“Could it be that because this was a sacred place…? It affected me…?”

Suddenly at that moment, Ash remembered something important.

“That’s right, princess-sama…”

The girl who appeared at the end of the dream-

“Although she was still a child, I am certain that she is princess-sama! Did I… meet princess-sama during my Orphan Ceremony!?”

Ash wanted to rush into the woman’s hostel to question Silvia about it, but he managed to stop himself. That is a place in which men are not allowed to take a step, no matter what. Also, this is not the academy but the novitiate. If he ever breaks the rules, he won’t be getting away easily.

In the end, it was just a dream. It is better not to act rashly before he had any evidence.

“Haa… I will go wash my face first.”

Ash sighed while he was crawling out of his bed. ''By the way, didn’t I keep sighing in my dream…'' Ash smile when he thought about this.

===Part 13===
After taking his breakfast in the hostel, Ash met up with Silvia and Eco at the cathedral. Then, the trio immediately headed towards Albion Forest.

Lancelot wouldn't be able to travel with them since the forest is thick and the dragons are too large. Since they never intended to ride on a dragon, they wore their school uniforms instead of the dragsuits.

Similar to yesterday, Eco was wearing her uniform. She was carrying the stuffed toy in front of her chest. She seemed to like it very much, given that she took the trouble to bring it with her.

The temperature in the forest was cool, which made them doubt that it was in mid-summer.

This forest bore a different kind of feeling compared to a normal forest. To put it in words, it actually felt sacred.

The reason they call Albion Forest a sacred place may not solely be due to it being the home of Mother Dragon.

Or it could be that this place became sacred because it is the home of Mother Dragon.

Ash felt nostalgic when he breathed in the surrounding air.

No, it is definitely not weird. Ash definitely visited this place before.

The view in front of him definitely matches the image of the forest in his dream.

“The problem is, where is Mother Dragon? Did Navi tell you anything about it?”

Silvia who was leading the group turned around and looked at Ash.

“No… Navi didn’t tell me anything.”

“I see. If that’s the case, we will enter the forest like we did during the Orphan ceremony.”

Silvia declared and continued marching in.

''-Kshaaaaaa!''

Suddenly there was the cry of a weird bird.

“Eek!”

Silvia covered her head with her arms. Ash was shocked because from behind, she looked exactly like the girl in his dreams.

“Are you alright, Princess-sama? I think you better not wander too far away from us.”

“I am fine! I-I am not scared at all!”

Although Silvia boasted this, in the end, she was walking side by side with Ash. Ash smiled bitterly in his heart to avoid being noticed.

“Hey… Ash.”

Eco, who had remained silent since entering the forest, gave Ash a gentle pull on his sleeve.

“Yes?”

“About Mother Dragon… Is she my ‘mother’?”

Ash was dumbfounded when he heard this. Since he had been focused on searching for Mother Dragon the entire time, he had never thought about it.

“She is indeed called a mother. I am sure that she is definitely a mother to you. What do you think about it, Princess-sama?”

Silvia crossed her arms and said:

“It is probably different compared to us humans. Mother Dragon is like a queen bee. She probably won’t care about every newborn she has…”

Half way through speaking, Silvia noticed a change in expression on Eco’s face and hurriedly corrected herself.

“Of course this is just my assumption. I don’t know the actual truth.”

“So, we will only know the truth after we meet her.”

Ash assured her by petting her head.

“Don’t worry, I will be right here. I will be there for you no matter how Mother Dragon treats you. That is one thing that will never change.”

“Ash…!”

Eco lifted her head after Ash's encouragement. Her long eyelashes, her wet eyes together with her blushing transparent white skin.

''-C-Cute…!''

Even though he was just looking at Eco, his heart already started to beat rapidly.

The two of them just stared at each other silently…

“Ahem!”

A cough that could shake a earth gave Ash and Eco the fright of their life.

“Hey… Have the both of you forgotten about me.”

Ash hurriedly turned around and saw Silvia looking at them displeased.

===Part 14===
The trio were just wandering around the forest aimlessly.

Ash suddenly stopped after passing through some bushes.

An image of a young girl appeared in front of him.

The girl had hair as dazzling as the rays of light that pierced the forest canopy and a pair of clear blue eyes. She was carrying a dragon shaped stuffed toy. She was crying because of her injured leg.

“This is…!”

Ash even forgot to blink when he looked at his surroundings.

There was an empty space below the dense canopy, near the roots of a huge tree.

It is definitely the same.

It is the exact same place as his dream.

“Ash?”

Silvia who was five steps in front of him turned around.

“Is there anything wrong?”

Eco was looking at him worriedly.

“…Nothing. Sorry.”

Ash came back to his sense and continued his journey.

''-Has Princess-sama forgotten about this place…?''

Ash wondered while he was looking at Silvia from behind. ''No, it is quite normal not to remember the scene in the forest.''

Just that, since the place in the dream actually exist, the dream may be real.

''-Is what happened in my dream my past experience?''

“Hmm? Huh… Eco? Princess-sama?”

Ash was shocked when he lifted his head again.

Eco and Silvia who should have been walking in front of him had disappeared. Everything around him was either bushes or trees.

“Damn! Eco! Princess-sama!”

Ash was shouting their name while he ran around.

Suddenly, white fog appeared from nowhere.

Ever since this he couldn’t really rely on his vision, Ash was just searching for the two blindly.

“Ecoooooooo! Princess-samaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

However, the further he walked the thicker the fog became. In the end, everything he saw was blank white.

He even began to lose consciousness.

“Tsk… What in the world is this fog…”

After he finished this sentence, Ash’s consciousness was completely devoured by the fog.

===Part 15===
“Huff… We have been walking for some time and Mother Dragon has yet to appear. She should at least tell us where to look for her.”

Silvia grumbled and at the same time, she stopped.

“Urgh!”

Eco immediately knocked into Silvia.

“Why did you suddenly stop!?”

Eco scolded with her swollen nose.

Silvia turned around and glared at Eco.

“And why did you walk without looking where you're going!?”

Silvia was trying to provoke her. Eco then also noticed that Silvia was staring at her stuffed toy.

Eco just couldn't understand why Silvia was interested in how Ash acquired the stuffed toy. She was pissed about it.

No matter what happen, this toy will always be an important thing to Eco.

She had thought it looked cute at first sight and she just felt drawn to it. Most important of all, it was given to her by Ash.

Eco hugged it tightly.

“Why do you have to enter the forest? Mother Dragon only asked for Ash and me. Why could you not stay in the novitiate’s garden and search for Rex Albioni!?”

“W-What did you say!”

Silvia’s expression changed. This was the first time Eco saw a human’s face turn pale as if drained of blood.

“I came with you because I am worried! Are you saying that… Do you not like that I am being nice to you?”

“Hah! Being nice! Maybe it is because of an uninvited guest that Mother Dragon has not appeared!”

Although this was said at the spur of the moment, it was still a logical reason.

That’s right. Mother Dragon hasn't appeared before them because Silvia accompanied them. The one she asked for were Ash and Eco.

But, Eco knew that she was being mean to Silvia, who usually took care of her.

Her heart was conflicted, wondering whether she had over reacted.

“Eco… Do you really mean it?”

Silvia who was seldom scolded was looking down.

However, the more she thought about the connection between the toy and Silvia, the more uneasy she felt.

''If this stuffed toy really belongs to Silvia… What does that signify?''

“Hey Eco! If you want to apologize, this will be your only chance.”

Silvia was glaring at Eco sharply. She was obviously cross because of Eco’s words.

“Hmph! I will let Ash decide who is at fault!”

“Fine with me! Hey, Ash!”

“Ash! Tell us immediately!”

But Ash never answers.

“…Ash? Huh?”

Eco was looking at her surroundings.

Ash who had been walking with them just moments before had disappeared.

“Ash!? Where is he?”

Eco lost her cool.

Ash was lost.

Ash who was always by her side has gotten lost.

Eco had become separated from Ash in the past, which led to a horrible experiences with the Empire. Because of that, she felt uneasy whenever Ash was not by her side.

“Hey, Ash!? Where are you!?”

Silvia was looking around searching for him.

Unnoticed by them, the white fog had started to appear.

Right now it was difficult for them to see things even an inch away.

“Grrrrrrrr…”

At that moment, they certainly heard a beast's growl.

“Please tell me that I am dreaming…!”

Eco who turned around immediately froze.

“Wha…! A Necromancia!? This is ridiculous! This should be a sacred place…!”

Just as Silvia had said, standing right in front of her was a Necromancia.

Similar to Willingham Mausoleum, it was a young dragon sized Necromancia. But it was still as intimidating as ever.

Though it looked small, its black fur and rotten teeth were still too much to bear.

“Stay behind!”

Silvia, as if trying to protect Eco, took out a huge Bright Dragon Crystal.

“Lancelot! I summon you in my name, Silvia Lautreamont- urgh!"

Many whip like tentacles appeared from the Necromancia's stomach and the spell was interrupted.

Silvia’s wrist was grabbed and she dropped the Bright Dragon Crystal. Apart from that, more of the deep red coloured tentacles appeared and grabbed her arms and legs.

The next thing she knew, her entire body was surrounded by tentacles and she was hanging in mid air. The more she struggled the tighter the tentacles gripped.

“Urgh… Stooooop!”

Silvia was red with anger and tears flowed from her eyes.

Eco was shocked to see that the usually cool and brave Silvia could do nothing against them.

“Grrrrrrrrrrroooooooo!”

The Necromancia roared and it's slimy tentacles wrapped themselves around Silvia’s cleavage and hips. The tentacles left slimy residue wherever they touched.

“Tsk… For me the fourth princess of the Knights… To be suffering from this… Do you know what will happen to you!?”

Of course her intimidation could never work. In the end, a tentacle found a way into her cloths and tore them.

The rags from her clothes dropped like snowflakes.

Her feminine shoulders, her breast, and her waist were all exposed.

“Aah! W-Where are you touching…! You better…! Aaa…!”

The tentacles were crawling on her snow white body. The slime that came from the tips had caused her entire body to become slimy.
[[Image:SnRK v05 206.jpg|thumb]]

Even so, Silvia shouted to Eco:

“What are you doing!? Run! Don’t worry about me!”

“I-I… I can’t do that!”

Eco clenched her fist.

Just moments ago, Eco had said terrible things to Silvia. But now, Silvia had risked her life to allow Eco to escape. Running away on her own was something her pride would never allow.

If Ash were with them, she could have at least given him his Ark to allow him to fight. But in this case, he had disappeared.

If that’s the case, Eco would do it on her own way.

''-If I turn into a dragon… They are just small fries. But how do I control my transformation?''

Eco was trying to figure it out while sweat was running down her forehead.

No matter how hard she tried to recall that feeling… she still couldn't get a clear image of it.

“Eco! Watch out! Behind you!”

Silvia warned her.

“Eh….?”

Eco turned around, and stood frozen.

Like a beast who spotted its prey, a second Necromancia had its eyes on Eco.

“Eek…!”

Her face turned pale.

Though she wanted to run away, her body wouldn't budge.

“Grrrrrrrrrrroooooooo!”

While it roared, numerous tentacles burst from it.

In just a split second, they had captured Eco’s arms and legs.

Eco felt herself being lifted from the ground and the next thing she knew, she was hanging upside down.

She felt embarrassed the moment she noticed that she was being hung upside down. This was because her skirt was now at her chest and her panties were exposed.

“Nooooooooooo!”

Eco shouted in despair but her vision was now obscured by the deep red coloured tentacles.

===Part 16===
“Are you… Hurt?”

Just as Ash asked this, the blond girl suddenly stood up.

“W-Who is hu-!?”

However, before she could even finish speaking, the girl showed an expression of pain and fell to the ground again.

“Urgh…”

Judging her reaction, it seemed be her ankle that was injured.

Suddenly, something fell.

“Huh…?”

Ash picked it up and noticed that it was a stuffed dragon toy. It didn't look good even judging at the lowest possible standard. In general, it
was carelessly done and its body was designed to be round. He even doubted whether this was a dragon.

“Don’t you think that's pitiful to leave it on the ground?”

Ash handed her the stuffed toy and spoke to her in a tone similar to how he usually talked to his sister.

It seemed like the toy was indeed important to the girl since she took it back with full force.

Ash gave the girl a wry smile, turned around and knelt down.

“W-What are you doing!?”

The girl continued to put on an act, but it was obvious that she was at her limit.

“Isn’t it obvious? I am bringing you back to the entrance.”

“What! You mean… We are going back!? Are you going to give up on the Orphan Ceremony?”

Ash nodded and spoke as if it was as clear as the blue sky.

“That should be the most sensible thing to do. You can’t expect to search with that leg of yours right?”

“Don’t joke with me!”

Ash didn’t expect to be shouted at.

“I need a Pal! It is impossible for me to turn back now!”

“The ''Pal'' that you speak of… What is that?”

Ash asked.

“What! How can you not know that, as a citizen of the Knights Country!”

The girl was in a rage.

“Remember this! It is the bond between a Breeder and a dragon! It is a very sacred word!”

“I see…”

But the girl was not letting him off easily.

“What about you? If you have the time to worry about me, why not search for Mother Dragon? Or do you not want to become a Breeder?”

The girl leaned forward.

“W-What?”

Because the distance between their faces was too small, Ash was much too embarrassed and tried not to look straight at the girl.

“So you are pretending to search for Mother Dragon with the intention of returning home empty handed? So the recent
talk in town about most children lacking motivation these days is true.”

Ash flustered when the girl pointed out his plan.

Truthfully, Ash was never interested in dragons. ''Maybe those children without motivation the girl speaks of are children like me''.

Even so, Ash could never admit this while the girl was seriously talking to him.

“If it is possible… I would like to meet with Mother Dragon… I think?”

“Then, lets go! I will teach you about my family’s motto! Listen carefully!”

''Shhh…'' There was a gentle breeze blowing, followed by the cry of birds.

“The knight's pride is his dragon.”

After being motivated by the girl, Ash was going to turn to his right, but…

“Hold on! If I were to leave, what about you? Wouldn't you be lonely?”

“B-But I will never withdraw because of a mere injury! I-I will never give up!”

Ash sighed.

He even laughed when he thought about the mess she was in.

Once again, he looked straight into the girl’s eyes.

What an unpredictable girl.

Where had the girl who was crying because of an injured leg gone?

When she was talking about dragons, her eyes sparkled.

Ash thought that he was meddlesome but still came up with a decision.

“I see. You want to become a Breeder no matter what, am I right?”

“That goes without saying.”

“And you are sure you don’t want to head back?”

“That too goes without saying!”

“That is why there is only one choice left. I will give you a piggyback ride and we shall search for Mother Dragon together. How about that?”

“Eh?”

The girl was surprised.

Unfortunately, the girl was not listening to Ash. Her blue eyes were staring at the space behind Ash.

“W-What’s wrong?”

Finally, Ash noticed that something was off and he turned around.

“Guuooooo!”

To his horror, a huge animal was glaring at him from the middle of the bushes.

It's wet body was shiny from the sunlight piercing through the thick canopy.

“A Basilisk…!”

Though it may have been a lowly animal, it was still a kin to the Asias. It lifted its webbed front leg and took a step towards Ash.

“Run!”

Ash forcibly placed the girl onto his back and dashed off.

===Part 17===
“Haa…Haaa… I thought I was dead meat.”

After running frantically in the forest, Ash finally stopped underneath a tree. His heart almost exploding.

Luckily, he no longer had to worry about the Basilisk.

“Huff… Are you alright?”

The girl on his back didn’t reply. She was shivering in fear while tightly holding on to Ash.

Only then did Ash realize that their bodies were too close to each other and he blushed in embarrassment.

He could feel her body heat through the cloths on his back and smelled the perfume that she used.

The girls in Ash’s village never had the habit of putting on perfume. And even the ladies only use it on special occasions.

Right now, his heart was at the verge of exploding for another reason.

To distract himself, he tried provoking the girl.

“Tsk. Who would have expect you to be this timid. Didn’t you say ‘The knight's pride is his dragon’? See, even your family motto is crying.”

“Shut up!”

After being provoked, the girl was in a rage and gave Ash a good beating.

“Ouch! I beg you, please stop!”

Ash almost dropped her to the ground.

“It is because you made fun of me!”

“Fine, I am sorry! I am really sorry! Ouch!”

''-The knight's pride is his dragon''.

Judging from this family motto, the girl should be from a Dragner’s family. ''However, how is she going to ride a dragon while being timid…''

''Her family probably also thought this and that’s why they had prepared a cute dress for her.'' Of course, Ash didn’t tell her what he was thinking.

“…Erm, what should we do next?”

The girl stopped hitting him after she heard him asking.

The sun was starting to set.

It was almost time for the Orphan Ceremony to end. According to the Albion Forest military order who was in charge of the Orphan Ceremony,
Mother Dragon will only appear in front of the child who is '''gifted'''.

Even so, the girl answered firmly.

“I will never give up! I will search for Mother Dragon no matter what!”

Ash laughed after he heard the expected answer.

Of course, Ash had no objection.

Just moments before, he had promised the girl.

''-I will give you a piggyback ride and we shall search for Mother Dragon together.''

“Then… Shall we start searching?”

“Lets!”

Ash took a whole new step forward. The wet earth sunk a little because of their combined weight.

''Why do I feel like I have become her 'Pal'…''

===Part 18===
''Ring…''

Ash’s body almost reached its limit when he first heard the beautiful sound.

''Ring…''

Ash heard it once again.

No, he didn’t even know if it was really a sound. It was more like a vibration that he felt on his body rather than a sound that he
heard with his ears.

“Did you hear that?”

“Huh?”

Ash was speechless when the reply was a question.

“It is hard to put it in words, but it is like someone is calling out to me.”

“Really!”

The girl suddenly leaned forward which nearly caused Ash to lose his balance.

“Maybe Mother Dragon is calling out to you. Then…”

Suddenly, the girl lost all her motivation and turned silent.

“What’s wrong?”

“I hear nothing at all… Even though you are able to.”

“Well, we can't be certain that it is the voice of Mother Dragon. It could be my imagination-”

Right at that moment, in a split second, his vision was filled with bright light.

The dense forest disappeared from view.

Right after this, Ash was floating in an empty space.

===Part 19===
“This is…”

Ash was in an unknown space.

At first glance, he thought he was in a dark cave, but the ceiling was too high. There were many balls of light moving around on the ceiling. By taking a closer look, he noticed that they were actually bright dragon crystals. Even the most luxurious chandeliers didn't look as magnificent as this.

There was a wide lake at his feet and it was reflecting the lights in the ceiling. The lake water was clear and it only went up to about Ash’s knees.

Facing the lake was an old looking building.

Ash thought it looked like a shrine that was dug out from the ruins.

The ground was made of square rocks and right on them stood many pillars with weird looking carvings.

A huge wall painting could be seen inside the shrine through the space in between the pillars. Ash couldn't understand the painting.

Suddenly, Ash noticed a sweet scent. It smelled a little like lavender and a little like rose. It should be the so called Ansal that dragons like.

“Nnn…”

All of a sudden, there was a sound coming from beside Ash. When he turned around, he saw the girl lying beside him. Ash’s heart skipped a beat when he noticed the heat of her palm.

Seeing that the girl was opening her eyes, Ash immediately let go of her hand.

“This is…”

The girl who had just opened her eyes was looking around at this unknown space.

''-Ring…''

Ash once again felt that weird feeling.

“Did you hear that weird sound?”

The girl shook her head sadly. It seemed that only Ash could feel it.

Suddenly, there was a strong gust. Ash was almost blown away while the girl kept holding on to her toy while enduring the wind.

At the same time, a loud sound that could shake the earth was echoing within the cave. They were unable to keep their eyes open.

Finally, the sound and the wind stopped.

Ash was trembling in fear when he opened his eyes slowly.

There was something on the opposite side of the lake.

It was in the middle of the shrine.

It was a dragon.

There were two ivory colored horns on its head. Its body was covered with white fur and there were many sparkling jewelries on its long neck.

“Is that… Mother Dragon?”

“Eh?”

In contrast to Ash's reaction, the girl was looking around aimlessly. It seemed like only Ash could see the dragon.

“Grrooooo!”

The dragon lifted its neck and roared.

The pebbles on the ground were starting to vibrate.

The dragon’s height was about the height of a three-story building after it stretched it's neck.

Though she couldn't see the dragon, the girl could still hear its roar. Since she was frightened, she was clinging to Ash.

However, Ash was surprised that he was not at all afraid. Rather than that, he felt that he could understand the dragon.

''-Ash Blake of Alba Village. I shall hand thee my Orphan…''

This feeling was right.

Mother Dragon was entrusting an Orphan to him.

“Don’t joke with me!”

Ash was in rage.

To be frank, Ash never intended to have an Orphan. If it hadn't been of that girl, he would not have been searching for Mother Dragon in the first place.

On the other hand, the girl had always wanted an Orphan.

Ash never asked her about her reasons but he could feel that it was important.

That is why he had made a decision the moment he met her.

“Mother Dragon! You are an idiot! I am not the one who needs an Orphan! It is she who needs it!”

After shouting in a loud voice that even surprise himself, he tightly grabbed both of her shoulders and made her stand in front of him.

“Hey…! What are you doing!?”

“Get a hold of yourself! Didn't you have your own reasons!?”

“B-But… I can’t even see Mother Dragon…”

“That's not a problem! Mother Dragon is right there!”

Ash was pointing towards Mother Dragon.

“Please, Mother Dragon! Entrust her with an Orphan!”

“…”

There was no reply.

Instead, Mother Dragon’s fur was glowing with white light.

Ash’s body was surrounded by a mysterious light.

“Urgh…!”

Ash noticed that a formless energy was entering his body.

His left hand was being lifted against his will.

Even though Ash tried to clench his fist, it ended up failing.

He felt that his left hand was burning.

A symbol like a family crest of a noble was slowly being branded on Ash’s palm.

“Y-You… Fool!”

It was clear that it was the proof of the contract, the Seikoku.

Mother Dragon was forcing an Orphan on Ash without even listening to what he was trying to say. It seemed that regardless of human or dragon, mothers will never listen to reasons.

''-Stop! If this continues… I will become a breeder!''

Ash grabbed onto the girl and dragged her towards him. He then shouted as loud as a dragon.

“Uooooooooooooooooooooo!”

''-Don!''

Ash pushed his burning palm towards the middle of the girl’s chest.

She immediately felt an electric shock from the tips of her finger to her head.

“Aah…!”

The girl groaned.

Even so, Ash kept on pressing his hand on the girl’s chest.

The girl’s dress started to tear and her white skin beneath was exposed.

Nevertheless, Ash’s burning hand was not leaving her chest.

Ash never thought that his struggle could change anything.

However, that never stopped him from trying. He would never allow the girl to lose her only chance of becoming a Breeder.

A person could only attend the Orphan Ceremony once in their lifetime.

There was never a second chance.

“I will hand this Seikoku over to you! This Orphan… Is now yours!”

Ash cried in agony.

''-Buumg!''

Then, something unbelievable happened in front of Ash.

His left arm exploded.

The area below his elbow and his sleeve was blasted into pieces.

“Hic…!”

The girl lost consciousness from the shock of being bathed in blood.

She then fell on the spot.

Ash too, who had witnessed all the unbelievable things that had happened, was on the verge of losing consciousness and managed to barely hold his ground only after putting all his effort in it.

Although it didn’t hurt, blood was still flowing from that terrible wound.

Ash turned to look at the girl while trying his hardest to stay conscious.

In the middle of her white chest was the Seikoku that was once branded on Ash’s palm. Regardless of what happened, the Seikoku had been successfully transferred to the girl.

“Haha… I did it… I really did it…!”

While Ash was laughing joyfully, he fell to the ground dead.

===Part 20===
“Uwaaaa!”

Ash woke up in shock from his left arm exploding.

“Huh?”

He hurriedly take a look at his left arm. He breathed a sigh of relief when he noticed that it was still wrapped in bandages as usual.

“It seems that you are now awake.”

Suddenly, there was a clear voice coming from above.

“Huh… Uwaa!”

There was a woman he had never seen before looking at him.

He immediately leaped away when he noticed that he was lying in her lap.

The woman who gave Ash a lap pillow had long green hair that reached her waist and an unworldly beauty. Her eyes were also green which made them look like large jades.

There were two horns on her head and they had many tines on them. She was the third woman Ash knew to have horns.

She looked to be around twenty five years old. Even though she looked young, she seemed like a lady born in a noble's family. Even the dress she wore was of high quality. She was just like a dame that appeared in the opera.

“Excuse me…. You are?”

“I am Mother Dragon.”

“Eeeh!?”

Ash almost had the shock of his life. Looking around, the scene certainly looked like the scene in his dream.

It was the spot where the seven year old Ash met Mother Dragon.

Ash was now inside the shrine he hadn't entered in his dreams. On the other side of the pillars was the huge lake glittering
under the lights.

It is presumable that it was a space built by the dragon’s magic. Because it somehow felt like the dragon workshop. There was even the
smell of Ansal.

Even so, is the lady standing in front of him Mother Dragon?

The Mother Dragon that appeared in his dream was in the form of a sacred dragon, but now she looked like a young woman. Although it was certain this woman was a dragon judging by her horns.

Ash suddenly remembered something important.

“Is Eco and Princess-sama alright!? I remember that they were lost in the forest!”

“Both of them are here.”

Mother Dragon answered calmly and pointed at the area behind Ash.

“Who do you think… I am… I am gonna crush… Aaah!”

“Stop… I am the princess of this country…! Who allowed you to touch that spot…!”

Eco and Silvia were both lying on the ground.

They seemed to be having a nightmare. Sweat was beading on their foreheads. Even their distress looked alluring and made Ash’s heart skip a beat.

''What in the world are they dreaming about?''

“Erm… Are the two of them alright?”

Mother Dragon answered indifferently -

“These are just elementary level illusions. Both of them lack training. But, worry not, it won’t affect their bodies.”

“I see…”

After he breathed a sigh of relief, he remembered something important about Eco and Mother Dragon.

“That right! Eco was wondering about something related to you. She was wondering if you are her ‘mother’. I will wake her up immediately."

“Please do hold on.”

He couldn't believe that the Mother Dragon who was always thought to be kind would snap at him.

“Sorry to say this, but even though I may be the mother of all dragons, I am not Eco’s mother.”

“Eh…?”

“In other words, I am responsible for the reproduction system of the dragons. I am the core of the wise dragon Albion’s magic. Even when she is Avalon’s Imperial Princess, I bear no personal feelings for her.”

Ash felt sad for Eco after hearing what Mother Dragon had said.

“Don’t you think that Eco is pitiful… After what you said? What’s more, it is you who summoned Eco here. Didn't you ask for her
because you miss her?”

After Ash said this, Mother dragon closed her eyes and the shadows of her long eyelashes showed on her white skin.

“…That’s right. I was, at the beginning. But I changed my mind in the end. I decided that it is better not to meet with Eco. I shall tell you everything you need to know and please allow Eco to sleep where she is.”

“But!”

“Even if we were to meet, I won’t be able to treat her like a daughter. That’s why, it is better for us that we do not meet. Also, even without a mother, Eco will still have you as her knight and Princess Silvia as a friend who would help her at any cost. And of course, the dragons in the Knight Country are on Eco’s side. She doesn't need anything else as far as I can see.”

“… I understand.”

Though he would still like to reason with her, Mother Dragon seemed to have made up her mind and nothing could change it.

“Then, lets proceed to our main topic.”

Ash became nervous once this was said.

“I know about Eco’s awakening in Fontaine City that happened days ago.”

“I beg your pardon for not being able to protect Eco properly…”

“We can’t do anything about the past, and I am not here to lecture you. However, the power of the Avalon Holy Dragon Emperor is enormous. It could even destroy this planet if misused. The Eco right now isn't mentally mature enough and couldn't control her powers properly. Just days before, didn't that child try transforming because of some trivial matter?”

“I-I am really sorry about that.”

Ash was surprised.

It seemed that Mother Dragon knew everything.

But that indeed was some trivial matter. Eco was going to transform into a dragon because of a quarrel with Silvia over a stuffed toy…

Although Ash managed to stop Eco from transforming by hugging her, that was just because he was lucky.

“The action that Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king Mordred and the Empire’s army is taking is indeed worrisome. Also, Chevron Kingdom, Holy Espada Agency and Labrock Trade Union are taking notice of the incident of the huge dragon that appeared in Fontaine City.”

After she finished speaking, Mother Dragon took out something.

It was a silver bracelet.

The exquisite carving on the bracelet was somewhat similar to Ash’s Seikoku.

“This is…”

“This is Avalon’s Bracelet. As long as Eco wears this, she will not transform into a dragon no matter what kind of a situation she is in. Apart from that, she could even learn to control her powers with it. Once she has gotten used to it, she will be able to transform when she takes the bracelet off.”

“Really!?”

Ash leaned forward.

At the moment Eco wasn't able to consciously control her transformation. That’s why she almost transformed due to some trivial matter.

However, with this Avalon’s Bracelet, she could control her transformation, is what Mother Dragon had said.

“…Because of some selfish people, the mighty being of the descendant of the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family was exposed in front of everyone. This is a serious problem for both humans and dragons. From today onward, there will be people appearing before her with the intention of making use of her powers. Please never forget that it is both hers and your responsibility as her knight to make use of the power of Avalon.”

“I will keep that in my heart.”

Ash who was moved by Mother Dragon’s words answered sincerely.

He could feel the weight of the bracelet in his palm after receiving it from Mother Dragon.

“Then, I shall end our meeting here. I shall now send you back to the entrance-”

As soon as she had done her job, Mother Dragon once again spoke in an official tone for sending them off. But Ash had become nervous.

“Hold on! Actually… I have something that I need to ask you no matter what.”

“May I know what that is?”

“I… I had lost all my memories about the time of my Orphan Ceremony. But since I had returned to this sacred place, I began to remember parts of them. About how I met Princess-sama in the forest… And later being called out by you. And also the things that I did against your will for Princess-sama’s sake.”

Mother Dragon sighed.

“That's right. I was indeed surprised. At the beginning, I intended to entrust Lancelot to you. Although it is not a direct descendant, Lancelot is still a high status dragon whose bloodline is related to the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family.”

“Really! Lancelot is Eco’s relative…!? But why did you not entrust an Orphan to Princess-sama?”

“Unfortunately, Silvia Lautreamont doesn't have the quality to become a Dragner.”

Ash was getting angry even though the person speaking was Mother Dragon.

“That can’t be! Princess-sama was always top in her results in the academy!”

“That’s because of her personal efforts.”

“Doesn't that mean she is gifted?”

“Both of them are not related. She was just replacing her lack of talent with her hard work.”

“Isn't that the same?”

“It is not that her hard work was all for naught… If she continues to polish herself, she will definitely become a great Paladin who will be able to lead this Lautreamont Knight Country. However, no matter how much effort she puts forth, it is a cruel truth but she will never be able to surpass Ash Blake.”

Ash was not at all happy after being praised. But, there will be clashes in opinion between Ash who grew up in the human community and Mother Dragon who was responsible for the existence of the dragons.

There is no point in continuing to argue, Ash still had something else he wanted to ask.

“I… I want to know what happened during my Orphan Ceremony. I could only recall my memories until the moment I went against your will and lost my left arm… I couldn't remember anything beyond that.”

“Fine. Since you have taken a long journey to Albion Forest, I will show it to you as a gift.”

Mother Dragon stretched out her arms and placed them on Ash’s face. Ash’s heart skipped a beat after noticing the sweet scent.

“Mother…?”

“Please close your eyes. I will send you the necessary information.”

After that, Mother Dragon pressed her forehead on Ash’s.

Ash noticed that her forehead was cold.

In a split second, a vast amount of information flowed into Ash’s mind and his memories started appearing.

===Part 21===
“Kyaaaaaaaaa!”

The girl shrieked and then she lost consciousness. Together with her stuffed dragon toy, both of them fell to the ground.

Ash’s foolish action had successfully transferred the Seikoku onto the girl’s chest. That Seikoku on her chest is indeed the one that was previously on Ash’s hand.

“Haha… I did it… I really did it…!”

His left arm that was blasted apart was still dripping with blood. He then dropped dead on the ground with a smile on his face.
Mother Dragon who was still in the form of a dragon transformed into a woman and landed beside Ash.

Seeing Ash’s pale face, Mother Dragon spoke indifferently -

“What a foolish boy… But, Ash Blake, it is a pity if I do not save a rare talent like you. Although this may ''deviate from the original plan,'' I will place my bets on you.”

Mother Dragon held her hands in front of her chest.

There was a strong light forming in both her palms.

The light intensity kept on increasing till the entire shrine was filled with light. But then, his memories immediately moved to a second scene.

===Part 22===
“Uwaaa!”

Ash woke up in the forest from the shock.

At the same time, he remembered the happenings in the shrine.

He hurriedly took a look AT his left arm and found that it was still in one piece. Even his sleeve that had been blasted apart together with his arm seemed fine.

“What happened?”

Ash tried clenching his fist and releasing it. There didn't seem to be any problem.

It just felt like his arm didn't be belong to him. It felt more like a borrowed arm. But before he even rolled up his sleeve, he
remembered the girl.

“That girl…”

He spotted the girl immediately.

She was lying in a place not far from Ash.

Though she still hadn't regained consciousness, she was breathing normally while cuddling her toy.

“I’m glad nothing bad happened.”

Ash breathed a sigh of relief.

At the same time, he felt that something was off.

He was certain that her cloth was torn while he was transferring his Seikoku to her… But it now looked the same it did the fist time he meet her. Did someone mend her cloth just as they did Ash’s?

“That’s right, I have to make sure…”

Ash gulped when he stretched his hand towards the girl.

He must first untie the ribbon at her collar…

“I am not doing anything bad…”

When he was mumbling to himself while untying the ribbon…

“Nnn…”

The girl moaned.

“Uwaa!”

Ash had the shock of his life and retreated from the girl.

“Huh? Why… Why am I in the forest?”

The girl sat up slowly. She was sleepily looking around at her surroundings.

“Right! My body is…”

The girl placed her toy by her knee and started untying her ribbon.

“Hey! What are you doing!?”

The girl ignored Ash while she continued to unbutton herself.

In a few moments, she was showing her white chest.

Ash tried to avert his eyes but he was stopped by the girl.

“Look properly! I want you to look properly!”

Her serious expression didn’t make her look like a seven year old.

“Eh…?”

Ash took a peek at the girl’s chest timidly.

Her skin was like snow.

There was a symbol carved on her flat chest.

Ash couldn't be wrong.

It was the Seikoku that was once on his left hand.

“So… It was not a dream.”

Ash mumbled.

After allowing Ash to see her Seikoku, she buttoned her dress.

“Basically, I don’t remember any of the details. But what I know is… Originally, this Seikoku belonged to you… It was entrusted to you by Mother Dragon. Am I right?”

“No, that is…”

Ash was at lost for words.

“You don’t have to hide it. Because of you, I am able to become a Breeder. Right now, there is an Orphan inside my body. It is hard for me to explain… But I can feel it.”

“Really. Isn't that great?”

As Ash started smiling, the girl became angry.

“There’s nothing great about it! I… I am in debt to you. It is a debt that… I can never repay! Please tell me what should I do!”

Ash panicked as soon as he saw the girl becoming mad.

“No, aren't you exaggerating?”

“Nothing of the sort! From the beginning, I never had the qualification to become a Breeder. I couldn't even see Mother Dragon…”

At that point, tears started falling from her eyes.

Ash gave her a wry smile and placed his hand on her head.

“…Tsk, what a crybaby. How are you to become a great Dragner?”

“Even if you say that…”

“If you really want to repay me, please don’t cry anymore. It is a promise.”

The girl then lifted her head and wiped the tears with her sleeve. A new expression appeared on her face, as if the tears moments ago were lies.

“You… No, I swear to thee. I will never cry again. And I promise that I will become a great Dragner!”

The way she spoke looked magnificent and looked as if she was surrounded by golden winds.

“That’s the spirit.”

Both of them smiled.

Unnoticed by them, they were holding each other’s hand.

“Please do become a great Dragner for my sake.”

“I will.”

At that moment, the horn that signified the end of the ceremony was blown.

“So it has ended.”

With this, Ash lost his only chance to become a Breeder. It was fate that he had to return to his village empty handed but he was not going to regret it.

“…Erm, if you don’t mind, would you like to have this child?”

The girl somehow thought of something and handed him her dragon toy. As usual, it still looked clumsily made but right now, Ash thought
that it was cute.

“For me?”

“Thanks to you, I have received an Orphan. I no longer need this child.”

“Thank you very much.”

The girl smiled as Ash took the toy.

That was the first time the girl smiled in front of Ash.

===Part 23===

After that, both of them were separated under the protection of the Albion Forest Military Order.

After Ash returned to the novitiate, he had a body checkup and found out that he had an abnormal Seikoku on his left arm. Since he was
busy chit chatting with that beautiful girl, he never noticed anything before the checkup.

Ash lost consciousness from the shock and was struck with a high fever for seven days. After the fever had passed, Ash forgot everything about his Orphan Ceremony.

What was left after Ash had lost his memories was a left hand filled with Seikoku and a stuffed dragon toy.

===Part 24===
Mother Dragon let go of Ash’s body and said:

“The reason your memories were lost was because of the side effect of receiving the Orphan of the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family. It was actually caused by the huge amount of energy that entered your body that caused the confusion."

“I see…”

“When you defied me, there were only two choices that I could make. I could either let you die or entrust you with Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family’s descendant to allow your arm to grow back.”

“So it won’t happen without Eco?”

“The normal Dragon Orphan doesn't have the rejuvenating ability. Only the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family is an exception.”

After hearing what she had said, Ash looked at his left arm once again.

“This left arm is not your previous arm.”

“Eh!? What do you mean?”

“Hmm… The Seikoku replaced the function of your lost arm by changing into the shape of one. Do you now understand?”

“Is that… true?”

Ash was staring at his left arm.

“Your Seikoku is different from all the normal Seikokus. It was a special family crest only for the knight of Avalon’s holy dragons'
emperor family.”

Mother Dragon closed her eyes while telling him a shocking truth.

“Actually, I should still be keeping Eco for a few more years.”

Ash took a few moments to digest what she had said and was shocked by it.

“What you mean is… If I did not defy you and accept Lancelot… Eco would have become someone else’s Pal?”

“That’s right. The person had been selected. Like you, that person bears the chalice<ref>聖杯. Seihai. Also means holy grail.</ref>.”

“Chalice…?”

Ash was surprised but Mother Dragon immediately kept her mouth shut and sighed.

“…I have said too much. You will understand one day.”

Ash could not help but wonder why she wouldn't say anything about it.

“Then, I have one last question. Why is Eco born in the form of a human? Is everyone in Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family born similar to her?”

Mother Dragon lifted her head slowly.

Ash wasn't able to move while holding her gaze.

“No, that’s not it. Eco is actually a special being. In other words, she bears the hope and despair of all dragons.”

“You mean…?”

“In the near future, all dragons will go extinct. I can produce fewer and fewer Orphans. At most, dragons can only live for
another century.”

“…!”

“Wise dragon Albion’s magic that ties humans and dragons together is just a method to extend the lifespan of the dragons.”

“Is it because of the lack of Astral?”

“That’s right. Astral is a formless energy that provides life to all living beings on this planet. A living being that can't supply it's own Astral is the same as being given up by the planet. They can only face extinction.”

“…I learned that from school.”

“Whatever the case, this planet considered anyone with a vast amount of magic as a threat and started removing them. Or you could say that the planet is cleaning itself up. On the other hand, humans who possess no magic are full of Astral.”

After speaking for some time, Mother Dragon changed the subject.

“By the way, do you know about the Elves?”

“They are an imaginary race. They have the same pointy ears as the Eckbalds…”

“That’s not true. Elves certainly once roamed the ancient world. They were a race with magic as strong as us dragons. In the end, they perished because of the lack of Astral… Actually, their mighty bloodline was continued by the Eckbalds.”

“You are saying that Eckbalds are the descendants of the Elves!?”

Ash mumbled while trying to recall Lucca’s face.

“That’s right. Only the descendants of the Elves could perform the Dragon Riding Dance that the Eckbalds are proud of.”

“Is that so? I knew nothing of it.”

“Now, the dragons have come up with the same conclusion.”

“Could it be that…?!”

Ash felt that a thunder had struck him.

“Exactly, Eco was born as a human with dragon’s blood. After some time, she should be able to mate with a human and give birth.”

“-Really!”

Ash felt that his cheeks were on fire. He remembered the time when Eco was drunk with Ansal and wanted to have Ash’s child.

“That’s the truth. This body of mine is an illusion created by magic… But Eco’s is different. Her body is made to be the same as a human girl.”

“So… Eco will be able to become pregnant with a child…”

Ash kept on mumbling the same phrase.

Then, Mother Dragon was again determined to send him off.

“That’s all for now. I shall speak to you no more. It is time for us to part.”

At the same time Mother Dragon sang the spell, his vision was filled with white light.

===Part 25===
“Urgh…”

Ash was once again in the forest after he woke up.

Both Eco and Silvia were lying on the ground. Both of them had yet to wake up but it seemed that they no longer had their nightmare. Both of them were holding each other’s hands like great friends. The stuffed toy was almost squashed between both of them.

Ash then stared at the old tree right in front of him.

''How long has this tree existed?'' It looked like a sacred tree on first glance. He then placed his hand on the tree trunk and tried to feel it.

At that moment, Ash heard a soft voice.

''-Please take good care of Eco.''

“That sound…!”

Ash was surprised but he couldn't be wrong. It was certainly the voice of a kind mother, the voice of Mother Dragon.

“Could it be that… This tree… Is Mother Dragon’s true form!?”

He tried touching the trunk one more time but he could no longer hear the voice. But the tree in front of him gave the same feeling as Mother Dragon.

“That being said…”

Ash had forgotten one question.

How does Mother Dragon continue living without a Pal. If this tree is really Mother Dragon…

Mother Dragon definitely absorbed the Astral directly from the earth through her roots. Just like how plants absorb Astral. It was probably an idea thought of by the dragons.

But, the problem is, a part of the tree was rotting. Mother Dragon was probably dying. That is why the extinction of the dragons is nearing.

''Mother Dragon probably knew that her days are limited and didn't want to meet with Eco.'' Ash secretly thought.

There was a cold wind in the summer forest and it made Ash feel lonely.

“…No, I must not keep on being sad.”

Ash lifted his head. What Mother Dragon hoped to see is not him being sad. Ash collected himself and turned around with his back facing the tree.

“Right! We shall now head back to the novitiate!”

But he should first wake both Eco and Silvia. Ash gave them a wry smile and ran to their side.

"The Forest of Albion~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 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 3

2018-10-11T12:01:39Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==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 didn'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 was 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 was 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 required five meals a day, her condition was 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 were 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 was 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.
[[Image:SnRK v05 136.jpg|thumb|She revealed her white skin and even her collar bone can clearly be seen.]]

“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.

“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 could fully express her true self that she hid from others. After a breath, Eco used 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 a 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 didn'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 was a luxury.

Ash was thinking about the events that happened in Dragon Fang Restaurant while enjoying his bath. It was 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 is 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 didn'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. 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?''[[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.'']]

Ash first thought that Eco was still drunk, but she didn'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 breathed 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 had Navi's maturity, it made Ash’s heart skip 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 living things are destined to die the day they were born, to me, my death will be the day I 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 grows up, I am just a ‘source of information.’ Although an encyclopedia stores much information, at the same time 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 is going to be born will now be in your hands’ meaning…. 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 never appeared 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 thought 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…. Understand 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 fell on Ash. It seemed that Navi had finally returned Eco’s body.

“Uwaa! What happened!?”

Ash immediately hold on to Eco’s body. Her consciousness had yet to 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 mathematic equations 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 reason 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 to Eco suddenly came back to his senses 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, sooner or later both of you should head there. So why not use the practical exam as an excuse to head to Albion Forest and complete everything in one go.” nodded Silvia.

“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 to 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]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 2

2018-10-11T11:41:05Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring

==Chapter 2 - Ash's and Silvia's study group==
===Part 1===
Under Silvia’s command, Ash was given an empty room. It seemed that Cosette had cleaned the room some time before since it was clean and tidy. Looking around the room, there was a small desk for studying and even a sofa and a single bed. A classy Dragon Crystal lamp was hanging on the ceiling. When Ash sat on the sofa after he moved all his luggage into the room, he could smell the scent of lavender. It was from the incense burner on the shelf. He felt that the room had everything he needed. ''I might as well stay here for the rest of my school days…'' Ash even has such thoughts. By the way, although Ash was alright with staying with Eco in the same room, Silvia who was a little stubborn, could never allow it. She thought that it was outrageous for Eco, who looked like a girl, to stay in the same room with him even though she was actually a dragon. In the end, it was decided that Eco would be sleeping with Silvia.

“…Must we stay here for the coming two weeks?”

Ash suddenly thought that this was a weird summer. The Fourth Princess, Silvia Lautreamont was just staying at a wall’s distance away. It was easier to believe this if this is a dream. Just when Ash let his thoughts wonder, there was a knock on his door. He was greeted by Silvia when he opened the door. Somehow, she looked kind of sweet.

“What’s the matter, Princess-sama?”

“I-It is about time for dinner.”

“Aah… So it is about that time. I didn't even notice.”

Ash just realised that it was already evening. Days like this particular busy day seemed to always pass so quickly.

“Erm… What are you going to do for dinner, Ash?”

“Since it is the summer holidays, the student’s restaurant La Tene would only provide lunch. How does Princess-sama deal with her usual meals?”

“I always ate Cosette’s handmade meals. There is a restaurant like kitchen in this royal room.”

“Wow. But, I don’t like the idea of bothering you for my meal… So, I think I will head out to the streets together with Eco.”

“No, wait… Cosette had some personal matters that she had to attend to. She probably won’t be able to return in such short notice.”

“Eh? Come join us then?”

Silvia did not reply. Somehow, she was gripping the sides of her skirts with her head down and started trembling. Just like when someone was having a heat stroke, her face was bright red.

“Princess-sama? Are you alright?”

Silvia shouted after being asked by Ash.

“D-Do you want to give my handmade meal a try!? How about it!?”

At the same time, a piece of paper flew out from her pocket. It dropped right beside Ash’s foot. It seemed that Silvia had not noticed that her paper had fallen on to the ground.

“…?”

Ash picked up that paper.

''- ‘Shelley family’s secret. A recipe to make men dream’.''

“What is this?”

“Uwaaa! Give that back! Give that back to me right now!”

Silvia leaped towards Ash in a panic. She was only thinking about getting back the piece of paper.

“Hey! Calm down, Princess-sama! I will give it back to you! Waaaaaa!”

Silvia slipped and fell against Ash. Ash grabbed her immediately but instead he ended up being able to feel her softness of her body and her body heat. But the next moment, Ash too felt on the ground together with her.

“Ooouch!”

Ash almost choked from falling on his back. He slowly opened his eyes while moaning. The first thing that came into his sight was her golden hair.

''-This is bad! I… am hugging Princess-sama!''

Ash was panicking but luckily Silvia finally sat up her body.

“S-Sorry Ash… Are you alright?”

Silvia’s face was bright red when she was looking at Ash. Her golden hair fell on her shoulders and touched Ash’s face. It smelled like honey.

“I am alright but… T-this position… Is a little bad for my heart.”

Ash was speaking as if he was out of breath.

“Eh…?”

Silvia finally noticed that she was riding on Ash. And because her legs were spread open, her skirt had been rolled up and the white cloth came into his sight.

“Doooooooon’t stare!”

With tears in her eyes, Silvia started punching Ash.

“Ouch! Ouch! Please stop immediately and move aside!”

Silvia who felt too much embarrassment couldn't stop punching Ash, it seemed that she did not hear him.

“Hey, I think it is about time for dinner- Hey! What are you doing!?”

Eco who should be still lying on Silvia’s bed suddenly appeared in the corridor.

“Eco…! This is a misunderstanding! It is an accident!”

“So… Want to be crushed by me!?”

Too bad for him, Eco was not in the mood to listen to his explanation. She was approaching with an angry look on her face.

===Part 2===
“Next… A small spoonful of salt and a piece of bay leaf… Also, a small amount of black pepper. But isn't the word ‘small amount’ a little unclear…?”

Silvia was staring at the recipe for some time after she tied her hair into a bun and put on her apron. Just moments before, she thought about boiling the soup first, however it seemed that she was troubled by the amount of black pepper that she was going to use. As expected, Silvia who had not done any cooking since the day of her birth faced trouble from the word ‘small amount’.

“Err… I would also like to help you. May I?”

Silvia was surprised to see Eco walking into the kitchen.

“But, do you have any experience in cooking?”

“Impossible! But… Just before Cosette left, she gave me this. I just want to try challenging this.”

Eco showed her a piece of paper. Silvia had a bad feeling.

“Could it be that it is also ‘Shelley family’s secret recipe’?”

Eco turned red the moment she was told. It seems that Cosette had handed both Silvia and Eco the recipe.

“Damn that Cosette… Even when she knew clearly what I was thinking, how dare she still supports Eco from behind…! Even after she had been
working for me for ages…!”

Without noticing, Silvia clenched her fist.

“Err… What’s wrong with you?”

Silvia cooled down her temper the moment she was asked by Eco.

“No, nothing. Nothing at all.”

After she took a deep breath and calm herself down, she turned her head towards Eco. Silvia who had calmed down suddenly noticed something new. Although it was common that the dragon was always mistaken as a ferocious beast by foreign countries, but whenever a person saw the majestic Ark, they would have noticed that the dragons are a race that had their own unique beauty and also a race with strong creativity.

''- Could Eco be…. Even though she had no experience in cooking, who knows if she too has talent! Cooking can be even considered as an art creation…!''

Silvia was somehow feeling excited. If Eco shows her true skills, who knows if she might be able to create a delicious meal. On the other hand, Silvia had no confidence in herself. Since the day she was born, it is a natural thing to her that meals were laid out properly to her. She never had the thought of cooking at all. She even thought that riding on Lancelot for a thousand miles was far easier than this.

''-That’s it. Even though it will be a hindrance… If I can get Eco’s help… I will feel less embarrassed in front of Ash.''

Although it was not an honorable thing to do, but a little sacrifice was required. Right now, Eco was an important asset to her. Silvia once again pulled herself together and placed her hand on Eco’s shoulder.

“Why don’t we try cooking together? There is even an extra apron and barrette over there.”

“Alright.”

Eco quietly put on the apron and handed Silvia the barrette as if she want Silvia to help her put it on. Her actions were somehow cute and it made Silvia’s heart skip a beat. Silvia somehow had a feeling that Eco was like a little sister to her. It was kind of a new feeling to Silvia who was the youngest in her family.

“Alright then.”

Silvia smiled and stood behind Eco. Since Eco had quite a lot of hair, Silvia tied two buns on the left and right side of her head.

“We are done. Hmm… Aren't you looking cute?”

“R-Real…”

Eco seemed to be a little shy. She was probably not used to being praised.

“Alright, let’s begin!”

Silvia clenched her fist tightly and her action was followed by Eco.

“As you wish!”

===Part 3===
''-Is this even food!?''

After waiting for two whole hours, Ash felt shivers by seeing the food that was laid out in front of him. Whatever it may be, it gave the same feeling as the first time Ash met the Necromancia. He couldn't even believe that it was food after seeing and smelling it. It somehow looked a little unbalanced that the tableware was of high quality while the food itself looked comical. To begin with, why was the soup coloured purple like poison?

Is that piece of coal actually bread or a piece of meat? Ash couldn't even be bothered to think about the thing that was all mashed up as if it was an animal being ran over by a horse carriage. Even so, they were the hard works of both Eco and Silvia. A few band aids could be seen on Silvia’s fingers and the sauce and ketchup mess on Eco’s apron looked like some drawings.

“Hmm, what’s wrong? Why aren't you eating?”

Eco was speaking confidently, which in a way or another caused Ash to be confused.

“Ahem… You don’t have to eat it if it is not to your liking.”

As expected from Silvia, she seemed to notice that something was off. But the problem was much worse than whether he liked it or not. At that moment, Silvia started grumbling beside Eco’s ear.

“Eco… Are you really a dragon!? This is not even up to my expectations!”

“W-What! I had placed all my efforts in this!”

“But… Who would know that you are clumsier than me…”

Ash took the spoon while ignoring what the two of them were saying.

“Then, let’s eat.”

He felt that judging the food on its appearance and smell that was specially made for him was somehow disrespectful and rude. Who knew if it was actually a delicious meal. Ash took a spoonful of the weird coloured soup. A smell so bad that was like a gas attack flowed into Ash’s nostrils. He kept on enduring it while he sent it into his mouth. Due to the extreme fear, he closed his eyes. The gooey liquid first came into contact with his tongue.

At that instant, electricity flowed through his spine and he experienced a fierce sensation.

“~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~!!!”

Ash tried screaming but his voice was stuck at his throat. Then he fell from his chair.

===Part 4===
The Dragon Fang Restaurant in Ansarivan town center was full of customers. It was a public restaurant that Rebecca had told Ash about. The shop offered a half price discount for the student council members. It was said that the relative of the shop owner was a breeder and was also a student council member during his schooling years. On a first glance, there were big burly men in the shop talking about politics with a beer mug in their hands. Most of their talks were centering on the huge dragon that attacked Fontaine City. Who would even imagine that the huge dragon herself had walked into the shop? It seemed that no one had noticed the arrival of the trio. It also seemed that the student with the golden hair was Princess Silvia.

“Huu… I've just gone through hell.”

Just after the trio was led to a table for four, Ash started complaining. It seems that his tongue was still numb. Silvia who was sitting facing Ash immediately turned mad.

“Tsk… You shouldn't faint, no matter how bad the food is! What do you take a girl’s cooking as!?”

“No, I think fainting is a blessing for me. It is embarrassing if a Dragner dies from food poisoning.”

“Do you have to go that far!?”

Silvia was almost in tears.

“Hmph… You are lucky. He never even touched mine!”

Eco was grumbling beside Ash.

“I even thought of stuffing them into your mouth while you were unconscious.”

“Are you trying to kill me!?”

Ash felt a chill when he realized that he was inches away from death.

“Sorry for the wait. What would you like to order?”

At that moment their conversation was interrupted by a waitress with a smiling face.

===Part 5===
The Dragon Fang Restaurant’s special such as beef fillet steak and spare rib was placed on the table. Somehow Eco, who was always the first to grab the food, was acting rather quiet today.

“Are you feeling all right?”

“Eh? No, nothing…”

Eco hurriedly sent the salad on the fork into her mouth. Ash was worried since Eco took no notice of the meat on the middle of the table.

“Are you really all right? That is your favourite beef fillet? Are you not going to eat the spare rib?”

“You… can have it.”

Eco was looking on her knees when she sighed. This was the first time she did not react to the meat in front of her.

“Ash. Eco is a girl coming of age. It is normal that she sometimes doesn't have any appetite. Today should be that day.”

“I-Is it…?”

Eco is a young dragon who was not even a year old. That may be the case but she definitely looked like a girl coming of age. ''Could the source of her trouble originate from this afternoon’s incident?'' But this is not the right time to ask.

''Maybe I should listen to Silvia and let her be''… Ash thought.

===Part 6===
When the dessert arrived, Ash asked Silvia.

“Now that I think about it, aren't you going home?”

Followed by that, Silvia showed him a sour look and placed her glass on the table. Judging from the way she place her glass, she was definitely pissed.

“I can’t believe it… Have you forgotten about the supplementary test!?”

“Aah!”

Supplementary test. The weight of these two words seemed to hit his head hard. That’s right. Ash and Silvia couldn't take the final exam last month. However, since they had sufficient reasons, after requesting from the management department, they were given the chance to take a supplementary exam during summer. They will be given the same credit if they can pass. However, due to him constantly worrying about Eco, he completely forgot about the exam. If it was the practical test, Ash had confidence that he would ace since he was no other than ‘The boy who can ride any dragon”.

The problem was the written test. Apart from the normal subjects like math, literature, science and history, there were also subjects like dragon history, ecology, breeding
studies… and many more special subjects that need to be learned in the dragon riding academy.

“Err… When will the exam be held?”

Silvia sighed upon hearing.

“The written test will be held a week from now. You won’t be allowed to take the practical test if you fail the written test.”

“What….!?”

Ash turned numb. If he couldn't squeeze out a pass in the written exam, he wouldn't be able to bring up his result with his practical test which he was good
in.

“Let me put this bluntly. You are now a member of the student council. How can you face Rebecca, who scouted you, if your results are bad.”

Silvia’s words stabbed right at his heart.

“What should I do…? I don't even have the slightest confidence in my written exam. It is impossible! There is only a week left! I would need to retain a year if I fail…!”

Ash was crying in agony which made Silvia sympathize with him.

“-All right?”

“Eh? What did you just say?”

Silvia blushed when she was asked. She then announced loudly:

“I said I can help you with your test!”

“Really?”

Since the time she entered the academy, her results had always been the top of her year. If Silvia was to teach him, he can at least avoid
retaining a year.

“Thank you, Princess-sama!”

===Part 7===
On the next morning, both Ash and Silvia were up early in order to prepare for the exam. Notes and text books were all over the dining table in the royal room. The table which was initially like a painting of hell since yesterday was tidied up by Ash.

“Let’s start.”

Silvia sat beside Ash. She was neatly dressed in a blouse and a tight skirt. By putting on her fashionable eyeglasses, she looked like a teacher. She was probably the type who needed a suitable atmosphere to be able to concentrate.
[[Image:SnRK v05 114.jpg|thumb]]

“Eco would probably cause a ruckus after she wakes up… So is it okay with you that we start with the most important subject first?”

“Aah… All right.”

Although it hurt Ash that she needed to put Eco aside, but right now, his priority is studying for the exam.

“Then, let’s start from the Mother Dragon. This is the most important part for the first term. Please listen carefully.”

Silvia was totally like a teacher.

“Hmm… The Mother Dragon… Usually, she sometimes becomes the topic of our talk, but I am not actually sure what kind of a dragon is she.”

“She is basically different from the rest of the dragons. Though I tried investigating on my own, there are still too many questions remaining unanswered. Since what is not mentioned in the text book won’t be in the exam, we should start from memorizing the textbook. Can you please read page fifty eight?”

“Okay.”

Ash started reading the ecology textbook.

''-The mother dragon will only appear in front of humans during the Orphan Ceremony. Only when she found a child qualified to become Breeder will she appear and bestow an Orphan to the child.''

“By the way, Ash, is Lancelot a male or female?”

Ash was shocked by Silvia’s sudden question.

“About that, is Lancelot a male? I mean its name sound manly.”

“Are you an idiot! How can you call yourself a student of Ansarivan?”

“Eeh? So it is a female?”

“That’s also wrong! The correct answer is none of the above!”

“That my first time hearing it.”

“Do you even listen during classes!? In the ancient time, dragons did have difference in genders, but… I mean…. F-For them to mate to reproduce.”

Silvia was blushing and trying to avert her eyes. Talking about that, Ash started noticing Silvia’s curves. The Silvia right now was very alluring.

“But, during the long history, the dragons who almost faced extinction invoked the wise dragon magic, Albion. That had totally changed their ecosystem and since then, the Mother Dragon was responsible for reproducing and the dragons had lost their genders.”

“Now I see… But no matter how I look at it, Eco is a girl isn't she?”

Silvia turned speechless upon hearing Ash’s words.

“It seems so. Why did I not notice it?... Even so, Eco is a special dragon.”

''Could it be that apart from being the Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family's descendant, there are still many more mysteries surrounding Eco that was yet to be found?'' Ash thought secretly.

The dragons should have lost their genders since a long time ago. However, Eco was obviously born in the body of a girl. ''What is the actual reason behind it…?''

“Even so, since Mother Dragon is also a dragon, she should need astral in order to survive, however, it is a surprise that she never had any contract with anyone. Unfortunately, these facts were not written in any books…. Hey, Ash, are you even listening?”

“Eh? Aah… Sorry.”

Ash immediately straightened his body when he was glared by Silvia.

“Tsk…I bet you acted the same way during class. Anyway, please read the textbook starting from this part until this part for one more time and drill them into your head.”

Silvia leaned forward and underlined the important area.

“…!”

Ash held his breath when he saw Silvia’s breast through the gaps of her collars.

“Huh? Is everything all right, Ash?”

“No, nothing! Nothing!”

“What a weird person…”

===Part 8===
“Hmm, it is time for us to take a short break.”

After she briefed through the examination scope, Silvia place her pen on the table. Silvia looked a little tired and Ash on the other hand was exhausted from being forced to memorize all the important subjects.

“Are you all right, Ash? Your dream to pass will remain a dream if you are troubled by just these.”

Actually, Silvia tried encouraging him but she only spoke strict words since the beginning.

“I will work harder…”

Ash had his head laid on the table when he answered weakly.

“Tsk. Cosette, make us some tea…”

Silvia remembered that Cosette was no longer with her the moment she turned around.

Unfortunately, Silvia herself had never made tea before. She didn't have the confidence to make a cup of tea that can match with Cosette’s standard. At the same time, she didn't want Ash to take her as an idiot who didn't even know how to make tea. Just as Silvia was troubled by this, Ash stood up and gave her a wry smile.

“I will make the tea in return for teaching me.”

“S-Sorry.”

“I may not look like it but I am actually good at doing housework. Since I don’t have a father at home, I was always doing some housework like cooking, taking care of my sister and many more when my mother was at work.”

After that, Ash left for the kitchen and he suddenly looked like a reliable person. Even though Silvia had been teaching him from the start, but their roles had changed with just a cup of tea. After she heard noise coming from the kitchen, Silvia started mumbling to herself:

“If, Ash… If he is that boy… What should I do? No, but… The boy had given Lancelot to me. Thinking back carefully, it is impossible for him to become a Breeder in the first place.”

“-Why do you need to mention Ash?”

Silvia had a shock of her life when she heard another voice. Eco’s face had suddenly appeared in front of Silvia. Since her hair was still in a mess, it looked like she had just woken up. But her beauty still remained and it made her body seem like glittering. Although Silvia had always hated to be seen by anyone except Cosette the moment she woke up, Eco didn't seem to mind it. Suddenly, Silvia felt guilty when she saw Eco. It was probably due to her spending time studying with Ash for the entire morning when Eco was sleeping. Without knowing what Silvia was thinking, Eco asked innocently:

“Where is he?”

“Aah, he is making tea.”

Eco threw Silvia a sharp glance upon hearing.

“Are the two of you playing when I was sleeping?”

“I-Impossible! He may face retaining a year if I choose not to teach him. That’s the truth! It will really happen if I ‘choose not to teach’! At the same time, isn't it bad for you as well as his Pal if he was to retain a year?”

Silvia was in a pinch by trying to explain to Eco.

“Hey, Eco. You are finally awake?”

At that moment, Ash appeared from the kitchen holding a tray with the tea set.

“…It is already noon. You better change your clothing.”

Eco immediately turned red as if she didn't want anyone to see her in her pyjamas. She hurriedly ran out from the room. Silvia was anxious about Eco’s behaviour. The past Eco was always arrogant and never get embarrassed from things that a human would. ''Despite that, compared to her past self, Eco looks more feminine. Am I thinking too much?''

“Ash, about Eco… Don’t you think that she is starting to change?”

“Does she? I didn't notice anything…”

Ash was lying and his face was red from embarrassment. It was impossible for him to not notice when he had been living with Eco under the same roof. Of course the reason Eco became more feminine was Ash.

''After all the things that had happened, surely Eco was….'' Just when she thought about that, Silvia felt a pain in her chest.

===Part 9===
After eating lunch that was made from whatever there is in the larder, Ash was again studying. This time, Eco was together with them. Since she was just quietly reading her picture books, she didn't really cause any problem. However, whenever Silvia leaned forward and her distance with Ash become closer…

“Ahem!”

She would always purposely give a cough as a warning. She then continued with her book and did nothing apart from that. Eco’s actions were completely different compared to her past self. Just as what Silvia said, Eco was maturing. What she had just shown was jealousy. Just yesterday, Ash and Eco were kissing in the room with the broken wall. Although the location was bad, they both had the urge for each other and in the end, they kissed. It was totally like a dream. Ash’s heart started beating rapidly upon remembering the feeling when their lips touched. On the other hand, Ash noticed that he was attracted to Silvia.

The Lautreamont Royal Knight Family’s fourth Princess, Silvia. Months before, she was just Ash’s classmate. During that time, she was like an unapproachable being to him. If the him a year ago knew about his situation right now, he would definitely have gotten a great shock. However, the Aries Dragon Riding Festival had become the turning point where their relationship became closer…

“Ash! Hey, Ash! Are you listening…?”

“Uwaa! S-Sorry, Princess-sama…”

After being scolded, Ash came back to his sense.

“Are you all right? It doesn't feel like your thought is here.”

Silvia was really worried about him. Turning his head around, Eco too was worried about Ash and took a peek at him.

“About that… Many things happen recently, no?”

“Speaking about that, you were involved in the battle during the Selective Training Camp and in Fontaine City.”

Silvia agreed with him. But her thoughts were in the wrong page compared to Ash’s. However, Ash was thankful that she misunderstood him. He would never admit that he lost concentration because he was stuck in choosing between Silvia and Eco.

===Part 10===
After three o’clock, it was time for their second tea-time. Since it was boring to drink only red tea, they also took out the biscuits that
they found in the kitchen’s cupboard.

“Erm… Princess-sama, I would like to ask you about the stuffed toy.”

''“*splurt*”''

Suddenly, Silvia spluttered out her red tea.

“Sorry, Princess-sama.”

Ash immediately tried to wipe the table with a tea cloth.

“W-What about the stuffed toy?”

Silvia glared at Ash when she tried to wipe her mouth.

“I mean if it initially belongs to you, how in the world did it came into my possession?”

“How am I to know about that?”

“Then… Do you still remember how did you give it away?”

“That…!”

Suddenly without warning, Silvia was blushing.

“So you did remember. Do you mind me asking?”

“Of course I mind!”

“I see. Then I won’t question you any further.”

Ash understood the situation well and stopped asking but Silvia suddenly stood up.

“Stop! I will tell!”

“Now, which is it?”

“As I said, I will tell you!”

Thus, Silvia started telling the story of the seven year old her attending the Orphan Ceremony in Albion Forest.

===Part 11===
“I was lost in Albion Forest not long after the Orphan Ceremony started. At the same time, my leg was twisted and help was nowhere to be found… Then, I cried.”

“Princess-sama cried?”

Ash was surprised but it made Silvia blushed.

“It was not like I wanted to! I was seven during that time!”

“Haha… Sorry. So, what happened after that?”

“Erm… At that point, a boy who was attending the same ceremony appeared. He gave me a piggyback ride when we continued looking for the
Mother Dragon.”

“Eh…? This is interesting.”

“However, my memories beyond that are fuzzy. Even though I remembered that the Mother Dragon appeared in front of us, I still can’t
recall the specifics. But, I still somehow remembered that the boy rejected Lancelot and gave it to me. If I never met him, I will never be able to become a Dragner. Later, I gave him my toy as a token of thanks to him.”

“Did you not ask his name?”

“During that time, we were busy looking for Mother Dragon… And had forgotten to ask for his name. I bet he never noticed that I was actually a princess.” sighed Silvia.

“Back to the topic…. Who would expect that a seven year old brat was such a kind person. Could he be Princess-sama's first love?”

Ash asked casually.

“I-If you have time to ask any idiotic question, you might as well spend your time memorizing a few more words!”

Silvia shouted as if she was going to overturn the dining table. Ash turned quiet in afraid of her menacing look. On the other hand,
another person was giving both of them a sidelong glance-

“….Haa.”

Eco sighed as if she didn't have the spirit to care about the two.

"Silvia’s memory~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 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 1

2018-10-11T11:19:16Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==Chapter 1 - Tragedy of Apollo house and Mirabel's decision==
===Part 1===
''-Don! Don…! Don!''

The sun had just risen but Ash who spent a sleepless night was woken up by a loud knocking sound.

“What in the world…?”

He took the silver watch by his pillow side and noticed that it was just half past six. After he angrily took a look at the window, he became wide awake.

“Uwaa…!”

There was a huge eye looking through the gaps of the curtain. It was actually a dragon who was banging its nose against the window.

''-Don! Don… Dododododo!”''

He was worried that it may break the glass.

“Why is a dragon coming to my room!? Could it be another Necromancia attack!?”

So the Empire had finally shown their true colours and started attacking? Ash tried to leave the bed but he was stopped.

“Zzz…”

Eco rolled over and hugged Ash. Her hair was all over his shoulders, her arms were around his back and her soft face was on his chest…

''-Mmm…''

Ash was shocked by her sudden nibble.

“Hey, Eco… Please don’t bite that spot.”

Recently, her habit of nibbling had gotten less but she still had not gotten rid of her habit of a young dragon. Moreover, she was nibbling on Ash’s sensitive spot which troubled him. At that moment, there was a crack on the window.

“This is bad… It is not the right moment to let her continue nibbling.”

Ash carried Eco and they left the bed together. The next thing he knew, the glass was smashed into pieces. He managed to avoid the glass fragments at the last moment. At the same time, there were two dragons that were trying to squeeze their heads through the window. Their hard scales protect them from the sharp glass. Taking a closer look, Ash noticed that one of them was a Maestro while the other was a Hydra. After knowing that he was not attacked by a Necromancia, Ash breathed a sigh of relief.

“Morning, Ash!”

“Good morning, Ash-sama!”

Finally, he could see the faces of the two riders. They were the student council secretary Lucca and Jessica of the general affairs. Right beside them were Maestro Gawain and Rhiannon, the Hydra. Ash started to protest after he placed Eco who was still sleeping on the bed.

“Lucca! Jessica! What in the world are both of you doing!?”

Since the time Ash saved Gawain who was in danger of dying, Lucca had become emotionally attached to Ash. In the dragon riding academy, most of the girls were the more aggressive type, it was kind of rare to see someone as quiet as Lucca. The beauty that only an Eckbald possessed was out of this world. Ash was a little surprised to see Lucca acting rashly. Perhaps she was influenced by Jessica.

“Ash… I hoped that you would come with me to the Eckbald village. I want to introduce you to the village chief, my otou-sama.” <ref>In the raw version, Lucca called her father otou-sama, but the kanji written was foster father.</ref>

Her usual emotionless face had always given Ash a heck lot of trouble.

“Hold on! W-Why must you mention about the chief!?”

“P-Please don’t ask anymore than this.”

Lucca was suddenly blushing. This time, it was Jessica who pushed Lucca to aside. Jessica who was usually eyeing at Ash’s sperm, though her actions had always been eccentric, she was still undoubtedly one of the few beauties of the academy.

“Ash-sama, I have a request!”

“Hey, wait a minute! This is the third floor! How did a hydra get here…?”

“Well, climbing wall is not a problem for my Rhiannon.”

“Can’t you sympathize your Pal a little!”

Ash pitied her Pal. Although a Hydra may still be able to move on land, only when they were in the water did they show their true skills. It shouldn't be its own intention to walk on land. Let alone climbing the walls of the student’s dormitory, which doesn't seem to fit the actions of a proud dragon.

“Putting that aside, Ash-sama! I am about to leave Ansarivan. What about you? Do you have any plans of returning?”

“Now I remember… today is the start of the holiday.”

-The first day of the month of Leo.

It was the first day of the holidays for Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Since it was a boarding school, most of the students returned to their hometown. Of course, not all of the students were going back home. There were also a small number of students who were forced to stay in for the holidays for certain reasons. Ash was one of them.

“Nope, I am not going home.”

After hearing, Jessica’s facial expression changes.

“What! If that’s the case, I too will stay back here!”

“Uuh… If I don’t return soon… I will be scolded by my otou-sama.”

Compare to Jessica who was in high spirits, Lucca looked sad. Lucca who carried the hopes of all Eckbald with her probably didn't have as much freedom as Jessica has.

“Sorry to disappoint you Jessica, but you must return with me.”
[[Image:SnRK v05 044.jpg|thumb]]

Suddenly, there was another voice.

“Rebecca-san!” shouted Ash.

There was a sweet smell from her red hair being blown by the winds. She looked like a war maiden in the legends when she was riding on Cú Chulainn.

“Sorry for the trouble that this stupid girl from my house had given you. The Randall family will cover the fees for mending the window. The servants fault is also the master’s fault.”

“Now that you mention it… I remember that Jessica was a servant in the Randall family.”

“Just that since she became a Breeder, she had forgotten about her place.” sighed Rebecca.

“Hmph! Could you stop calling me that? I don’t have the intention of serving the Randall family for my whole life!”

“I never thought of that. You are my important childhood friend. Also, your parents had asked me to take good care of you. That is why I have my duty to bring you back to meet your parents.”

Although her lips were smiling, there was not even a hint of smile in Rebecca's eyes. After Jessica saw Rebecca's determination, her elbows dropped in disappointment.

“Haa… I understand. However… I want Ash-sama to see me off!”

Ash gave a wry smile.

“I think that should be alright.”

The moment he answered, Jessica was once again with a big smile. But, she was then blushing and started to mumble.

“T-Then… According to my hometown’s custom…. There should be a parting k-kiss….”

“Hey! Jessica! When does our hometown have such a custom?”

Rebecca exposed Jessica’s lie with a wry smile.

“Hmph! Rebecca! Don’t you know how to look at the atmosphere?”

“I-I too would like you to see me off…”

While Jessica was in rage, Lucca shyly told Ash her wish.

“Of course.”

“T-Then… According to the Eckbald custom…. I want you to give me a princess carry.”

Ash’s heart skipped a beat when he first saw Lucca's blushing face.

“A-A princess carry!”

Ash was in a fix but Jessica shouted at Lucca:

“Hey! What are you trying to do in this mess! That must be a lie!?”

“Uuh…”

While Lucca turned speechless, the noise that Jessica made had spread throughout the school.

“Hey, can you believe it! The president and Jessica were making a night visit! And the other person… Could she be Lucca Sarlinen the genius girl from the basic class!?”

Suddenly, a huge number of students were gathering outside of the Apollo House. It was something for three girls to be standing on their dragons beside a window of a boy’s dormitory. To say nothing of Rebecca Randall who was the most popular person in the entire academy, Jessica was also one of the centers of attentions and let alone Lucca with her Yōsei like looks and her skills as a Dragner.

“I-I am just here to have Ash-sama see me off! Nothing else!”

Jessica tried to settle the misunderstanding by shouting towards the direction of the school.

“Hmm! By saying Ash-kun you mean… The Ash-kun who was knighted yesterday!?”

“The knighting ceremony was awesome!”

“I also want him to see me off!”

Right now all the girls were speaking with a shrill voice. Rebecca gave him a bitter smile while she was enjoying all of this.

“Seems like your popularity had sky rocketed after you became a Dragner.”

“The situation outside… It looks frightening somehow.”

“Yeah. I just saw around thirty dragons flying towards this window.”

Rebecca told him the unthinkable news with a calm face.

“Huh!?”

“Sorry, Ash. Though I have many reasons to help you… But if I show my true skills, the girls would suffer some grave injuries.”

“Hol-! Don’t leave me!”

“You should try to solve your own problem if you are a Dragner. Also… If it is alright, I would also want you to see me off.”

“…Eh?”

Unfortunately, Ash was not able to catch everything Rebecca said. Her voice disappeared behind the loud noise from Cú Chulainn flapping its wings.

“Good luck, Ash.”

Lucca too had reluctantly flew off with Gawain. Right after that, the Apollo House faced a terrible attack.

“Ash-kun! Please see me off!”

“Ash-kun, you might as well come to my home town with me…!”

“Hey! Don’t cut the queue!”

Most of the girls returning were riders of stradas. They were like bats gathering together for food at the window. But of course it was impossible for thirty riders of stradas to squeeze into the window at the same time. Soon, they started pushing around.

“P-Please be patient! Calm down! Please calm down!”

Ash was panicking.

Every single roar from the Strada was enough to shake up this entire old building.

“Hey!...How dare you! Ash-sama is my important- Nooooooo!”

Unlike Rebecca or Lucca, Jessica who stayed until the end was finally pushed off the wall together with Rhiannon.

“W-What should I do?”

Ash retreated until his back was facing the wall while he was watching the girls fighting for a spot. At that moment, Eco who had rolled herself into a ball while she was sleeping had woken up and was rubbing her eyes.

“Hmmm…. What’s all the noise about?”

“You ! How can you still think of sleeping!”

Eco was looking around in confusion. It seems that she wasn't fully awake yet and wasn't able to think properly. Ash shouted with all his might towards the window.

“I beg you! Could you please not make a mess in front of someone else’s window! I promise to see off every single one of you!”

Too bad for him, his voice was not received by them. Suddenly, Ash had a bad feeling.

“I couldn't be…”

His entire body was shivering in fear. Since some time ago, the wall facing the outside was creaking. It appeared that the Stradas were putting pressure on it.

“It is dangerous to stay here! Lets run Eco!”

“Huh…! Could you care to explain!”

“Later!”

Ash was running with Eco on his hands. He ran out through the door and out to the corridor. Just when he was sliding along the floor…

''-Creak…! Eeeeekkkk……. !Do--------------n!''

The next moment, there was a loud explosion. Ash cautiously took a peek through the cracks on the door while trembling. All he saw was dust flying around and even the corridor was affected.

''“*Cough *!*Cough *!”''

While covering up Eco who was coughing, Ash waited until the dust had settled down. Just moments later- After the dust had cleared up, what Ash saw was a clear sky. The morning rays were shining at the disastrous room. The wreckage of the wall was all over his room. It was a painful sight. Right now, with the wall facing the academy and the window destroyed, his room looked like a doll house that could be seen from the outside.

“Err… Eco, am I dreaming?”

“I think so?”

Ash and Eco were looking at the room with their mouths wide open.

===Part 2===
Ash was brought to the director’s office on the first day of the holiday. As for those girls who were the culprits, it seemed that they had ran back home as soon as possible. That was why Ash who was the victim was summoned.

“I see… Now I understand what had happened.”

Mirabel who was acting as the director replied coldly and drank from her cup of tea. The room was full of the smells of bergamot and the tea. Just like a robot, Mirabel’s face was emotionless the entire time. ''Does this princess even have the thing known as feelings…?'' Ash thought.

“The academy will take responsibility for mending the wall. Just some time before, I had asked the builders of this city and they estimated that they will be able to complete it in around two weeks time.”

“Really…! Thank you very much!”

Ash was grateful that she was able to deal with this situation without delay.

“The problem is… During the renovation, where am I to place you and Eco.”

“I see…”

“Can you borrow a room from any of your friends?”

“I don’t think that would be possible…”

Unfortunately, Max and Raymond had gone home. For Ash who didn't have many friends, they were the only two friends that he could rely on. Although there was an option of using it without asking for their permissions, Ash couldn't bring himself to do it.

''-Bang!''

The door behind him was opened with a slam. The next time he knew, Silvia and Eco was right beside him.

“How much longer are the two of you going to keep on talking!? Can’t you just give us a new room!”

Eco was pointing at Mirabel in anger.

“Anee-ue! Why do you call for Ash! That incident was caused by a few girls! It had nothing to do with Ash! Aren't you treating him like the culprit!?”

Silvia on the other hand was trying to speak up for Ash.

“Where are your manners? Don’t you know that it is rude to walk into a room without knocking? You won’t be given special treatment even if you are the descendant of the Avalon Holy Dragons Emperor’s family or my sister. “

Mirabel glared at both of them coldly.

“I am sorry… Anee-ue.”

Silvia stood still on her ground as if she had turned into a stone. On the other hand, Eco was trying to intimidate Mirabel by showing her sharp teeth.

“Hey you!... How dare you act like that even when you know that I am Avalon’s holy dragons' emperor family's Imperial Princess! Why don’t I try crushing the castle the next time? If I show you my true self, one or two Fontaine Place won’t…”

“Idiot! Stop spurting nonsense!”

Ash’s face was pale white when he was scolding Eco. Since that incident, the Knight’s government took Eco as a threat. As long as there is the possibility that Mirabel was here to keep an eye on Eco, they have to be careful with their own words. But to his surprise, Eco calm down with just a single shout. She turned her head around with her face blushing.

“I-I will listen to you… Just this time.”

Ash was taken aback from seeing Eco making such an expression for the first time. Just as he had expected, it was that transformation that had made a change of her heart. Although the gentle Eco looked a lot cuter, at the same time, it was also a little confusing.

“Ahem!”

Mirabel tried clearing her throat, returning everyone’s attention back to her.

“Silvia, you came at the right moment. Right now you are staying in the royal room in the Epona House right?”

“…What about it?”

Silvia was surprised.

“Until the renovation in the boy’s dormitory had been completed, Ash Blake and young dragon Eco will stay in your room for the time being.”

“What!”

“I won’t repeat for a second time. This is an order from your sister. You are not allowed to have any objections.”

Naturally, Silva was enraged.

“What do you mean by this! This is against our family motto where ‘A knight shouldn't carelessly touch another of the opposite sex’!”

“Hmm… Funny but I remember that I said to let Ash Blake and young dragon Eco stay in your room. When did I ever mention about touching Ash?”

“T-That…!”

Right at this moment, even Silvia’s earlobes were red.

“Right now, if I were to mention the family motto that you love so much, ‘A knight should help those who are in need’. Am I wrong?”

After she replied coldly, Mirabel looked like she had lost interest in the case regarding Ash. She kept on looking at the tea cup on her hand.

“I am done with you- What a pain, now a good cup of tea had turned cold.”

===Part 3===
Rebecca and Jessica had returned to the land ruled by the Randalls. Lucca on the other hand had returned to her village. After seeing them off, Ash and Eco once again returned to his room on the third floor of the Apollo House. They once again looked at the disastrous room. A bed full of glass fragments. A floor full with the remains of the wall. And the disorganized furniture. With the wall gone, the room became bright and windy. Looking down from above was a few curious onlookers. When their eyes came into contact with Ash’s, everyone scattered.

“Haa… First of all, I think we should try cleaning up a little. It is better to make it look a little more cheerful before the renovation starts.”

Turning around, Ash noticed that Eco was sulking.

“What’s wrong, Eco?”

“Hey. Do you really want to stay in Silvia’s room?”

“It is not like I have a choice. It was an order from Princess Mirabel. It seems that even Princess-sama did not dare to go against her.”

“I… I hate it.”

“What’s the matter? You don’t look like your usual self. Well, if we stay at Princess-sama's room, we may be able to eat Cosette’s delicious homemade cooking.”

“That’s not the point! And also, I am not someone who thinks about food for an entire day!”

Eco's face was red with anger and embarrassment.

“Is it… Sorry then.”

“It is fine if you understand. Anyway, just if you try to do something weird to Silvia… I will be sure to crush you!”

Eco was glaring at Ash.

“What do you mean by something weird!?”

With her ears fully red, Eco told Ash embarrassedly:

“T-To make it simple…. It is those perverted stuffs.”

“W-What are you even thinking!”

Ash stood still on his ground. He never expected Eco to speak of such a word. It kind of surprised him.

“Even I know about those stuffs… Don’t look down on me just because I am a young dragon.”

“Could the source of information be…. The Dragweiss?”

“…Some of them were from there, but most of them were from the picture books that Cosette lent me.”

“Hold on! Are they really… Just picture books!?”

In order to teach her the importance of aesthetic sensibility, Cosette had lent her picture books and books for children. For that, Ash was grateful to Cosette. However, there was a possibility that she mixed some books with adult content in them into the pile of picture books she had given to Eco.

“Anyhow, she is still this country’s princess. What you are worrying about will never happen, rest assured.”

''In the worst possible case, I will be beheaded…'' Ash thought secretly.

“A-Alright… I understand.”

Once again, Eco was smiling and she looked at the room around her.

“Then… What can I do to help you?”

“You are trying to help?”

“What? Is it weird for me to help?”

“Definitely not weird, but rare. Ain't it always me who does the house work?”

“A-About that… It doesn't seem like I have a choice. I am a dragon. I don’t really understand how a human acts. But… I just feel like helping for today… Can’t I!?”

Eco puffed up her rosy coloured cheeks and stared at Ash.

“Why not? I even want to thank you.”

Ash gave a wry smile and tried to pat her head. But, Eco immediately dodged to a side.

“No! You mustn't touch!”

“Sorry… I didn't know that you dislike it this much.”

“N-No! It is okay it you are just patting, but you mustn't touch my horns. If they were just slightly touched, I… will turn weird. I felt like floating in the air when they were touched...”

Ash could calm down after seeing Eco’s face when she tried to explain her feelings.

“I understand. I promise I won’t touch your horns.”

Ash carefully patted Eco’s head. Her pink hair was fluffy and it gave his palm a nice feeling.

“Nn…”

Even when she was a dragon, Eco was smiling and shrugging her neck like what a cat would do. Her innocent smile had grabbed Ash’s attention. To be precise, it was her flower bud like lips. His heart was beating rapidly. This was actually the second time he had such a feeling. The first time was when Eco said that she won’t be satisfied with just being a Pal in the guest room in Fontaine Palace.

“…”

Eco probably felt the change in the atmosphere too and her body suddenly tense up. Perhaps she too was also thinking about the scenario in the Fontaine Palace. In a short while, just like that time, Eco closes her eyes. She also tried to purse her lips. Ash also noticed that her long eyelashes were also trembling.

''-Eco…!''
[[Image:SnRK v05 060.jpg|thumb]]

He suddenly remembered the word ‘beloved Pal’ in the knighting ceremony. During that time, Ash was only saying the standard pledge. But this was totally different. His feeling of love to Eco was born from deep in his heart. A feeling that couldn't be explained using something as simple as the relation of a Breeder and its Pal had grown. Right now, they didn't need any words.

Ash placed both his hands on Eco’s shoulders and closed their distance slowly. A sweet smell was surrounding them which made him dizzy. Right now, he felt as if his heart was going to explode. They were now at a distance where their nose could easily touch each other. Eco felt like being pierced through by the sunlight while she was waiting for Ash. Ash made up his mind and closed his eyes.

And then- he kissed Eco on her lips.

===Part 4===
“~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~!”

Since their kiss, Eco had been working silently with her back facing Ash the entire time. It seemed that she was too embarrassed to even look at Ash in the face. And of course, it was the same for Ash who felt as if his face was a ball of fire. Although the two of them at a first glance seemed to be dusting the room, there was actually zero progress. What they were doing was only messing up the already messed up room.

''-What should I do? What should I say at times like this?''

Just when Ash was anxious in trying to find the right words…

“Uwaaa…! Cute!”

Eco turned around and showed Ash a round object.

“Isn't this cute? Where did you find this stuffed toy?”

At that moment, Ash felt something was pricking at the back of his neck. It made him wonder what it was. The stuffed toy that Eco was holding seemed to be a dragon. Strictly speaking, its face was clumsily done. Furthermore, it's round body made it looks nothing like a majestic dragon. However, Eco seemed to take it as cute, and it made her forget about what had just happened previously.

“Err… Actually I don’t remember much about that when it came into my possession. No matter how I look at it, it looks just like a girl’s toy. It is probably not me who bought it.”

It was thanks to the toy that Ash was once again able to speak to Eco normally.

“Hmm… Strange.”

Eco was carrying the stuffed toy while she whipped off the dust on it.

“Hmm… When I moved to Ansarivan, I just took it with me without any reason. Perhaps there is a great meaning behind it was what I thought. Actually… There is a blank in my childhood memory.”

“… A blank in your memories?”

Eco was surprised.

“Aah. It was right about when I had my seventh birthday when I visited Albion Forest for the Orphan Ceremony. I just can’t recall my memories during that time.”

“Isn't that… The time when Mother Dragon bestowed me to you?”

“It seems so.”

“How come you can’t remember such an important event?”

Ash shrunk when he saw Eco start to get mad. Just like how they were finally able to speak normally, Eco’s temper had also returned.

“To be frank, I know nothing of it myself. It was just that I had a hunch that this toy had something to do with my lost memories and that’s the reason why I was reluctant to throw it away. However, because of the recent events, I totally forgot about it.”

“Then, can I keep it?”

Ash was taken by surprised.

“What do you mean by keeping it?”

“It is just like what I had said. Don’t you think it is sad for such a cute being to be left forgotten? I will take the trouble to take care of this kid.”

“How can you take care of it when it isn't even a living being? Argh, whatever suits you then.”

“Really!?”

Eco was full of excitement.

“Well, I don’t really mind.”

“That's great!”

Eco was so happy that she felt that she could even fly. She then rubbed the stuffed toy with her cheeks. Followed by that, she cuddled it like what a mother would do to her baby. Suddenly, she spoke of something that surprised Ash.

“This somehow looked like our baby…”

Eco suddenly stopped speaking before she could even finish her sentence. She the glared at Ash with eyes looking as if they were on fire.

“You heard anything?”

“No, nothing at all.”

Ash spoke with a serious look on his face.

“T-That’s right! N-Nothing happened! Nothing happened at all!”

As if her head was exploding in flames, Eco carried the toy and dashed out from the room.

“Actually, I heard every single word…”

Just as Ash was murmuring with his body also feeling as it was engulfed by fire…

“Sorry to interrupt, Ash-sama.”

Suddenly, there was a woman’s voice coming from behind.

“Uwaa!”

He noticed that it was Cosette after he turned around. She seemed to be wearing the same palace design maid attire today. She then gave a polite bow.

“Cosette-san! How did you get in?”

“To enter such an airy room is like a child’s play to me.”

Cosette smiled before she turned around to look at the blue sky.

“That can't be… This is the third floor! Putting that aside, why are you here?”

“I am here to meet you and Eco-chan. Had you forgotten about Princess Mirabel, Her Highness’s decision?”

Of course, it was impossible for him to forget about it to begin with. However, he still felt a little reluctant.

“Actually, can’t we reconsider about this? Putting Eco aside, don’t you think that it is wrong for a guy like me to enter Epona House where guys are not allowed?”

“For your own sake, I would advise you to follow her decision. Do you know what Princes Mirabel was also known as?”

“No… Nothing comes to mind at all.”

“Her nick name is actually Argento Magus. If we can describe Princess Veronica as a fighter, then Princess Mirabel is a thinker. Compare to Veronica, there are certain things that would make Mirabel a tougher opponent. Please be sure to be prepared mentally, Ash-sama.”

Ash sighed after he heard everything.

“…I understand. Please let me take some belongings like my pillow and clothes with me…”

“Alright then, meanwhile, I will try searching for Eco.”

Eco had not yet return since the moment she ran out from the room.

“Thank you. I think she should be somewhere around the dorm.”

“Huhu. That will be a simple task.”

Cosette ran towards the door nimbly while avoiding the disorganized furniture, but then she suddenly stopped and turned around to face Ash.

“By the way, Ash-sama.”

“What’s the matter?”

When Ash lifted his face, he saw Cosette’s face fully red. Ash was staring at her since it was rare to see her who was always calm to be blushing. Although she always stayed hidden behind Silvia’s shadow, she actually looked quite beautiful. With her right hand on her cheeks, she sighed. Then she said something outrageous.

“Ash-sama and Eco-chan's kiss looked very innocent indeed.”

“Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

This time, it was Ash’s turn to be blushing.

“D-Don’t, Don’t tell me that you saw everything!?”

“It totally felt like an opera show. You looked so cute when you kissed without even needing any words to understand each other. My god, isn't that wonderful? Didn't Eco-chan also look cute when she was waiting to receive your kiss?”

“I beg you, please stop saying anymore than this! It is embarrassing!”

Right now, Ash felt like he was sitting on a mountain of needles. Cosette, too, had also seemed to realize that she overdid it, and replied with a playful smile.

“Rest assured, I won’t tell Princess-sama any of this.”

“How is the Princess-sama related to this!?”

“Hmm… I wonder… Huhu…”

Cosette left the room with her sentence ending with her laughter.

===Part 5===
The moment Ash finished gathering all his basic daily needs, Cosette was back with Eco. Together, the three of them marched towards Epona House. Although it was around evening, the sun was still high up in the sky. After passing through a grove of mixed trees, they were welcomed by a stern looking gate. Even the cicada had stopped making noise. Although they were just walking, they were all full of sweat. By taking a peek beside, Eco looked as if she was suffering from the heat of the high summer temperature. She looked like a Hydra who was looking for water on dry land. Compared to Ash, Eco was only carrying her stuffed toy.

On the other hand, Cosette didn't even break a sweat.

“We have arrived.”

She turned around and smiled at both Ash and Eco. Through the gate, they could see a garden that was separated into two halves by the walkway. It must have been well tended by a good gardener. Even Ash who didn't have any interest in gardening was amazed by it. At the back of the garden stood an elegant looking building. That was Epona House, the dormitory for advance class girls.

“We have finally arrived…”

Ash placed his baggage which was full of daily needs and clothing on the ground.

''How long does it actually take to walk here from Apollo House…'' Ash couldn't be bothered to even think about it.

This dragon riding academy where human and dragons coexisted had a very large land area. In it, there were numerous classes, a church, a lecture hall, a library, a canteen, seven dragon houses, four dormitories, a sports ground… It even included an arena that was used during events. Although there was the shopping district and the housing are beyond the school walls, compared to the size of the academy, they just looked like extras. That was the reason why Ansarivan was called an academic city. Putting that aside, the distance between the boys dormitory and the girls dormitory must had been arranged on purpose by the academy.

“Please enter.”

Cosette pushed open the heavy looking gate and welcomed both of them in.

===Part 6===
On the top most floor of Epona House was the room of royal use. It looked like a high class hotel suite and it even had a large space. Apart from a heater in the living room, there was also a dining room, a study room, bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, etc. In a room that had everything, it looked as if it was another world compared to the normal student’s room. Silvia was walking up and down around her room alone, worrying endlessly.

“Argh! What’s wrong with me! Why couldn't I calm down! Even my family motto stated that ‘Always stay calm, especially in a pinch’!”

Even though she wasn't even in a pinch, Silvia couldn't stop worrying. It was about time for Cosette to arrive with Ash and Eco.

“That’s it!”

Silvia stopped in her tracks for a moment and then she dashed into the makeup room and stood in front of a mirror. She applied a thin layer of makeup on her face. She tried combing her hair many times. Her clothing and accessories were chosen by Cosette. She put on her camisole, a skirt with two layers of frills, her panty socks and a necklace made from bright dragon crystals that acted as jewels. In front of the mirror, she was just like her usual…. No, she was at least twice as more beautiful than she usually was. Silvia turned red when she realized how beautiful she was.

“Why would I dress myself up! It is alright by just sticking to what I usually do!”

Ash was about to arrive. Until the boy’s dormitory was done with its renovation, Ash was going to stay here for two weeks. Her heart started to beat rapidly from thinking about it.

“This feeling… It is that same feeling as ''that time…''”

Silvia recalled her memories. Around the time of her seventh birthday, she met a boy in Albion Forest.

''“Why? Why would I have this feeling of returning to the time when I was seven years old whenever I think about Ash…?”''

Silvia suddenly regained her senses.

“Stop! Stop! Stop! Doesn't this mean that I am looking forward for him to arrive!? Right… I should change back into my normal clothing…”
[[Image:SnRK v05 006.jpg|thumb|…!'' Silvia immediately snapped out from the confusion. She just remembered that right now, she was only wearing her undergarments. '']]

Silvia left the makeup room and entered the living room. She swiftly removed all her clothing except for her undergarments. She then walked along the corridor towards the changing room. Suddenly, the door opened right in front of her eyes.

“Princess-sama, we have returned.”

Cosette walked in with a smile.

“Princess-sama!?”

Ash was standing right behind Cosette with his eyes wide opened. ''Why is his face red? Is it because of the heat?''

“…!”

Silvia immediately snapped out from the confusion. She just remembered that right now, she was only wearing her undergarments.

“Kyaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Silvia ran and hid behind the door while screaming at the top of her voice.

===Part 7===
“Hey you! Just until when are you going to keep on staring!”

“Ouch!”

Ash came back to his sense after he was stomped on the leg by Eco. Just when he had stepped in through the grand entrance, he was greeted by Silvia in only her undergarments. The white coloured lace will forever be imprinted in his mind. ''By the way, why was Silvia wearing only those?'' No matter how hot the weather can be, it didn't suit her image.

“I am going to check on Princess-sama. Could the both of you wait here for a moment, please?”

With a happy smile on her face, Cosette disappeared into the corridor. In just a moment-

“No. This definitely doesn't look natural.”

“No no. It definitely fits you well.”

“But… Won’t this make me look like I am looking forward to their arrival?”

“Huh? Aren't you?”

Their entire conversation was heard by Ash.

“Come on! This is a disgrace! How dare they make a dragon wait by the entrance!”

Eco who was standing right beside Ash was enraged. The toy that she had with her which had a carelessly made face was further squashed by Eco’s abnormal strength. Ash pitied the toy. If this continued to keep on, Ash would probably be the next victim.

“Sorry for the wait.”

Just when Ash was about to be surrounded by his fear, Cosette had returned to the entrance with Silvia who was hiding right behind her. Ash’s heart skipped a beat when he saw Silvia’s clothing. It gave a completely different feel compare to the school uniform that she usually wore. A lot of her skin was exposed from wearing the camisole. It had totally grabbed his attention.

“Please come in.”

Ash regained his sense after he heard Cosette’s voice.

“S-Sorry for the intrusion.”

In opposite to Ash, Eco was looking around the room with a hint of worry.

“Even so… You are just a Princess of the Royal Knight’s Family and you get to have such a great room?”

Perhaps she was mad from being asked to wait at the entrance, Eco was saying anything that would sooth her anger. In truth, even Ash was amazed by the room itself. Just the entrance itself was wider than Ash’s room. There were even expensive looking pictures along the wall and carvings of dragons.

“Please don’t be mad. This room was specially made for the royals, it would be natural if Princess-sama is staying here.”

Ash tried to calm her down.

“But, I am also a Princess of the dragons! Why would there be such a large difference in our treatment!?”

“It is not like I want to stay in this room either!”

Silvia tried to speak up for herself even when she was being threatened by Eco.

“I even tried telling the academy to let me have the same treatment as the rest of the students, but they never listen…”

Suddenly, Silvia stood still on her ground. There was not even a slightest movement.

“Princess-sama… What’s wrong? You don’t look good.”

Ash was worried about her but she didn't reply. She kept on staring at the stuffed toy that Eco was carrying with her with her ice blue eyes. Silvia then suddenly leaped towards Eco and grabbed her shoulders.

“Eco! Can you tell me how did that toy fall into your possession?”

Eco became confused.

“I-It has nothing to do with you.”

“Please tell me! This is very important!”

Silvia shouted loudly.

“… I picked it up.”

Eco mumbled when she turned her head to aside. It seemed that she did not want to tell Silvia that it was a gift from Ash. Ash was wondering on why she would be insisting on it.

“You picked it up? When? Where?”

Silvia was being persistent.

“Come on! Why do I need to tell you?”

Eco lost her patience and roared.

“…Why can’t you tell me?”

“T-That’s because… I don’t have the obligation to tell you.”

“Now I see, you are playing dumb… It seems I must resolve to this.”

Suddenly, Silvia leaped towards Eco with both of her hands stretched out.

“Hey!... Don’t joke with me!”

Eco dodged with the toy in her arms. With the royal room as the stage, the two of them started running around like a bunch of kids. In just a blink of an eye, both of them disappeared behind a door.

“Err… What is this all about?”

Ash who was left behind turned around and questioned Cosette.

“Cosette-san?”

To his surprised, Cosette too was transfixed on her own spot. It was rare to see her making a face like that. Cosette then regained her sense after being called out to by Ash and started explaining.

“I just remember about it… I fear that that stuffed toy…. Is an important treasure to Princess-sama during her childhood.”

Ash was surprised by her answer.

“Wait a moment! That shouldn't be possible! There should be many more stuffed toys with the same design, no?”

Cosette answered calmly.

“No. There isn't. That toy is the one and only in this world. It was a limited edition item. It was actually made from a famous artist from Chevron Kingdom called Leonard De Mirabeau and was given to the five year old Princess-sama.”

“Really? That clumsily made toy is…”

“That’s not it… Its weird look was actually Mirabeau-sama's style. Don't people usually say that there was only a silver line that separated a genius and a madman? If that stuffed toy was bought to an antique auction… It should be priced at five million Eccles at minimum.”

Cosette told him the shocking truth with a straight face.

“Five million…!”

Ash turned speechless. His face had turned pale.

''-Five million Eccles!''

Ash couldn't even imagine that amount of money. He just knew that he won’t be able to finish it by living the rest of his days enjoying life. He never knew that such a treasure was hidden in his closet.

“W-We should try stopping them first!”

Ash started searching for them in the huge room.

===Part 8===
“Finally! You won’t be able to escape!”

Eco who ran into Silvia’s room was now like a rat in the bag. There was only one exit and the windows were too high to jump from since this was the top most floor.

“Tsk… You are being persistent!”

Eco backed off to the wall and like a mother protecting her child, she tried to intimidate Silvia. For one moment, Silvia was awed by her beauty, but the next instant, she roared:

“You haven’t told me anything yet! I just want to know how this toy came into your possession!”

“Why would you even want to know!?”

“T-That… I had my own reasons! Please, Eco!”

“Hmph… I had mine too. I will never tell you, only you!”

Both of them were glaring at each other without any intention of backing off. Silvia realized that whatever she said was useless.

“Now you have done it. Although it is not to my liking… I must resolve this by force.”

“What! Who do you think I am! See that if you can do it!”

“Fine with me!”

Silvia leaped forward without mercy. Although she should avoid Eco’s abnormal strength, Eco’s actions had always been straight forward and were always easy to read. On the other hand, apart from the Drag Arts, Silvia had mastered many more fighting styles. It was a normal thing to do for someone who was born in the Lautreamont Royal Knight’s Family. After struggling on the ground like brats, Silvia came out as the winner.

“Now you have been captured!”

Silvia was pressing Eco’s tiny body on the floor and without giving her a chance to fight back, she rode on Eco.

“Tsk… Let me go!”

“Is there any idiot in this world that would move off once they are being asked to?”

The winner had been decided. Even when Eco had her abnormal strength, she could never be able to beat Silvia. But, there was a reason why Silvia could beat her easily. Eco had never let go of the stuffed toy even after she was pressed down against the floor. If Eco would just let go of that toy, the fight could still drag on. No, it could even be Silvia who was pressed down against the floor.

“Please, Eco! This is not an order. Although it was not a long time since the day I met you, I always think you as a friend. That is why… Could you please tell me?”

Just when Silvia was begging Eco with a trembling voice…

“Eco! Princess-sama!”

The door opened with a bang and Ash came running in. Silvia turned around to look at Ash while she was pressing Eco down against the floor.

“Hold on, Ash! I never have the intention to harm Eco! I just want to ask Eco about it… no matter what!”

“But, Princess-sama doesn't act like the usual you. Even so, Eco is my Pal, I won’t forgive anyone who try to harm her, even if it is Princess-sama.”

After Ash murmured sadly, he showed her his left arm. Silvia knew that he had his abnormally large Seikoku covered in a bandage.

“Your Seikoku…?”

Silvia was in lost of words. The Seikoku under the bandage was obviously blinking with glowing lights. That was a signal given when the Pal was in danger. For example, even though Silvia did not have any intention of harming Eco, Eco felt that she was in danger and sent the signal to her owner Ash for help…

“Sorry, Eco… I am really sorry. I am in the wrong for scaring you…. But, I have my own reasons. Please, Eco! Please tell me for the sake of our friendship!”

Silvia was forcing out an answer from Eco.

“…Eco?”

Eco did not reply. Just as Silvia became confused, Eco was surrounded by a glowing light.

“Hey, Eco! What’s wrong?”

Eco still did not reply. Right now, Eco was like a doll, showing no expression. Even her eyes seemed to be reflecting nothing.

“Urgh…!”

The next instant, Silvia was being blasted of by a strong wind.

“Princess-sama!”

Followed by Ash’s shout, Silvia’s back bang against the wall. She almost couldn't breathe because of it.

===Part 9===
“Princess-sama!”

Just when Ash was trying to help Silvia out, Cosette arrived.

“I will take care of Princess-sama. Ash-sama, go help Eco-chan! This is no laughing matter!”

Cosette’s voice seemed to be more serious and nervous than usual.

“Understood!”

Ash ran straight towards Eco. His Seikoku started to hurt. He remembered that feeling. He had the similar feeling when Eco was awaken in the capital, Fontaine. Although the pain was not as strong as that time, Ash knew that this was the sign before her transformation into a dragon. Eco stood up slowly with the cute stuffed toy dropping on the floor. Strictly speaking, she was not standing. There was a gap in between her feet and the floor. She was actually floating…! Her limbs were now surrounded by the mysterious light that was so bright that they could not look at it directly. However, Ash continued to move forward.

“Stop, Eco! If you are to be awaken here…”

In the worst possible case, this Epona House will be destroyed. No, it could even be related to the city’s survivability… Eco had long been labeled as an element of danger by many countries’s government. The reason why Mirabel was sent to become the academy’s director was to keep an eye on Eco.

''If she is to transform into a dragon right now…!''

Ash moved forward without giving any thought and hugged Eco. A huge amount of magic was flowing out from her tiny body. If he had been careless, he would even be swallowed by the magic and lost consciousness. Ash shouted with all his might into Eco’s ears.

“Get a grip of yourself! I…I like the way you are now! It is okay if you just stay as you are! You don’t have to force yourself to change into your true self!”

It seems that Ash’s words had gotten through and the magic that was surrounding Eco had disappeared. Even the lights were no longer there. Ash’s Seikoku too had stopped responding.

“We are saved…”

Ash breathe a sigh of relieves.

“…Huh?”

Eco blinked her eyes in surprise and murmured.

“What had I done…? Why are you…?”

Realizing that she was in Ash’s arms, Eco leaped off from Ash’s arms with her face red in embarrassment.

===Part 10===
“I am sorry for what had happened just now. I-I never thought that you were so much against it…. No I shouldn't make any excuses. A knight must admit his own faults. I deeply apologize!”

After the group had sat on a dining table in the living room, Silvia apologized to Eco sincerely.

“Hmph… I guess this should be sufficient.”

Silvia’s eagerness to apologize by bowing her head had started to confuse Eco. Even though she still continued to puff up her checks in protest, but at least she had accepted Silvia’s apology. Ash who noticed it breathe a sigh of relieves.

“…Since everything had been settled, please allow me to ask. How did that stuffed toy came into your possession?”

Silvia’s words had cause Eco to be enraged again.

“Ha!? You….. Just apologize and yet you still want to ask!?”

“I apologize for resolving this matter by force. I promise that this time, I won’t try questioning you by force. But in return, I will keep on asking until you answer me. Remember, I will keep on asking.”

Silvia was quite stubborn. She even smiled towards Eco with her face full of confidence.

“I can’t believe it…”

Eco sighed.

“Sorry, Eco-chan.”

At that moment, Cosette returned from the kitchen with a silver tray full of snacks and tea.

“That toy that Eco-chan was holding right now… It probably belongs to Princess-sama a long time ago.”

“How can it be…?”

Whilst she was surprised, Eco took a bite on the vanilla flavoured crepe that Cosette handed to her. If it was the usual Eco, she would definitely shout out ‘Delicious!’ on the first bite, but right now, she was with a serious looks. As expected, even Eco couldn't enjoy her favorite food properly.

“What Cosette said is true. That toy is definitely an important thing to me during my childhood.”

Silvia spoke calmly as if she was trying to teach a child who knew nothing.

“Ha!? That’s impossible! I understand none of these!”

Eco placed her half eaten crepe back on her plate. Ash was surprised that she prioritized the argument before her crepe.

“I knew it the moment I saw it. There is only one of this stuffed toy in the whole world. It is a very important toy.”

“How can you have such confidence!?”

“You don’t even know the worth of that toy. Anyone who knows its worth would recognize it on their first sight.”

“Arrrrrggh! That explanation is totally unacceptable!”

''Eco was once again enraged, but at least Silvia knew her limit. Thanks to that, the atmosphere did not turn out to be any worse than this…'' Ash secretly thought.

“Come on you two…”

Cosette was obviously not at all troubled. She seemed to be enjoying this.

“Haa… It seems like I don’t have a choice.”

Ash sighed.

“Please listen carefully, Princess-sama. That stuffed toy was in my closet. I gave it to Eco since she seemed to like it.”

“Hey! Why did you tell that to her!?”

Eco was scolding Ash with her face red.

“What else can I do? If I leave it to both of you, the same thing will continue onwards again and again.”

“I… want this to be a secret between the both of us.”

Eco’s mumbling caught Ash’s attention.

“What did you say?”

“N-Nothing! I don’t even know you!”

Eco averted her face in anger. ''Why must she get angry...?'' Ash wondered. On the other hand, Silvia was staring at Ash.

“Ash… you said that this toy was in your closet?”

“That seems to be the case.”

Ash shrugged his shoulders.

“Actually, I am not really clear about it. Believe me or not, there is a blank in my memories… I don’t even know how it came into my possession. I don’t even know about its worth if not for Cosette.”

Silvia was staring at Ash so intently almost as if she was going to pierce a hole in his forehead. She then asked a weird question.

“When is your birthday?”

“Huh? The third on the month of Aries… What about that?”

After Ash answered honestly, Cosette spoke in surprise:

“Oh, what a coincidence. It seems that Princess-sama was also born in the month of Aries. By the way, hers is in the seventh.”

“Hmm… That’s the first time I had heard of it.”

“Huhu… So Ash-sama is the bigger brother by four days.”

“T-That… isn't it…”

“Ash!”

Silvia suddenly leaned against him. Ash could see her breast that was covered by the thin cloth of the summer clothes.

“Princess-sama?”

“Even though this may seems abrupt, but do you still remember the date you went for the Orphan Ceremony?”

“Err… I don’t really remember about the details, but it shouldn't be far away from my seventh birthday. Since my hometown was at a far away village, I started my journey when I was still six. I remembered that I had my seventh birthday in a horse carriage.”

Once they reach the age of seven, every citizen of the Knight Country must visit Albion Forest. For Ash, if he had departed after his seventh birthday, he would never be able to arrive at Albion Forest in a month time.

“By the way, does the date I went for the Orphan Ceremony matter?”

“…No, Nothing. I have something that I want to discuss with Cosette. Please stay here for the moment.”

Silvia suddenly stood up and dragged Cosette by the hand with her.

“What a weird Princess.”

Ash took a drink from the cup of red tea.

===Part 11===
After Silvia entered the makeup room, with an ‘Ahem’, she cleared her throat.

“What do you want to talk about, Princess-sama?”

“About that…”

“It doesn't seem like something easy.”

Since she had been with Silvia for quite some time, Cosette immediately knew what she was thinking.

“Aah… That’s right.”

“I will do everything you tell me to if it is in my ability to do so. If the situation required, I could even be Princess-sama's limbs or even your shield… That’s my duty.”

Silvia made up her mind and told her wish.

“Actually, I want you to return to the palace and investigate the name list of the children who went to the orphan ceremony at the same day as me. This should be an easy one for you, no?”

However, Cosette told Silvia something out of her imagination.

“The records of the Orphan Ceremony is the country’s top secret. Even if you are a Princess, you will be breaching the law by trying to investigate it.”

“Then, your duty would be to avoid it. Please, I could only put my hopes on you. With your ability, reading top secret documents should not be a problem, right?”

“That doesn't sound nice, Princess-sama. The ability that I only knew of was an ancient technique that was passed down in the Shelly’s family and some spying technique. All of them were used to protect the Lautreamont family.”

“I understand that, but…!”

Silvia grabbed her shoulders and looked at Cosette with her puppy eyes.

“Of course I will do it if this is your order. But, what will you do if Ash-sama is really that boy?”

Silvia’s face almost burst out in flames.

“I-I just want to know about it! That’s right, I only want to know about the truth!”

Cosette gave a wry smile.

“Hmm… Putting that aside, during the time when I am not in, when the night comes and Eco had slept, aren't '''the two of you''' alone together?”

“When the night comes…. The two of us…!?”

This time, steam emerged from her ears. Her heart was beating none stop.

“W-W-What are you talking about! Don’t you have any shame! How shameless! I…I believe that Ash is not someone insolent! That is why there is no point behind your question!”

Silvia snapped and Cosette nodded.

“I too had the same feeling.”

“Then why bother asking!”

Cosette smiled and took out something. It was a stack of paper held together by a paper clip.

“What’s that?”

“Huhu… A copy of ‘Shelley family’s secret. A recipe to make men dream’. Although I want to use it during this summer to teach Princess-sama some cooking… But this is a good chance to try it. Although Princess-sama doesn't have any actual experience, but isn't this a good chance to show your cooking skills to Ash-sama?”

Silvia felt as if her body was on fire.

“Hold on! W-W-Why must I show Ash my cooking skills?”

“If I am not mistaken, The Lautreamont Family Motto did mention that ‘to shoot a general you must first shoot his horse’, am I right?”

“What does it had to do with this?”

“In the Shelley’s Family Motto, there is something like this: ‘To get the man you like, you must first fill his stomach’.”

“What kind of family motto is that!?”

“Huhu… When Ash-sama's stomach is empty, and Princess-sama gave him your homemade cooking, he would surely fall for you.”

“…Fall for me!?”

Cosette was like a devil whispering into Silvia’s ears.

“When a Princess who doesn't look like she knew any cooking made a meal, which man wouldn't be moved by it?”

“Cut the crap! I never want Ash to take notice of me! Never! I-It's just that I had some interest in cooking since a long time ago. I will accept your offer because of this.”

Cosette handed her the recipe while smiling.
[[Image:SnRK v05 096.jpg|thumb]]

“Now, I have received my orders from Princess-sama and I will depart from Ansarivan immediately.”

“Huh? Immediately?”

“It is better if we act quickly, Princess-sama.”

Cosette lifted the both sides of her skirt slightly and bowed gracefully.

Suddenly, like mist, Cosette disappeared from Silvia’s sight like a magician.

“H-Hey! Cosette? … Do you really want to depart at this moment?”

Silvia became worried when she heard no reply.

“Please hold on, Cosette! You should allow me to have some mental preparation before…!”

Silvia looked around the room with tears in her eyes. It looks like Cosette had really departed.

“Tsk… She never takes me seriously!”

After Silvia mumbled in regrets, she took a long hard look at the recipe given to her.

"The Stuffed Toy Dragon~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 Prologue|Prologue]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Prologue

2018-10-10T12:23:54Z

Foggy glasses: Minor grammar changes and some restructuring.

==Prologue==
Lautreamont Knight Country, people called it the country of Dragon Breeders. To its north was the Zepharos Empire, while to its south was the Chevron Kingdom. Sandwiched between the two major powers was a small country with a population of no more than five million with a special academy. Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy. Educating and guiding teenage boys and girls who formed contracts with dragons -- an academy for Dragon Breeders.

===Part 1===
The last day of the month of Cancer. Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy had scheduled to hold the closing ceremony in the morning. Every student had gathered in the hall and was getting restless since it would be a holiday starting the next day. Every one of them was hoping for the bothersome ceremony to end. To make it worse, the ceremony had not begun according to schedule. It seemed that the director was late. Before anyone noticed, the students were chatting around among their groups. With the long long summer holidays right before their eyes, the students didn't stop talking once they had started.

“Huwaa….”

In the midst of everything, Ash, who was lining up together with the first year advance class, gave a loud yawn. He was about to fall asleep.

“Are you alright? You look like you didn't have enough sleep.”

Raymond was looking at Ash.

“That was your third time for today. You must have been slacking.”

On the other hand, Max firmly point out to Ash. He could never tolerate with Ash’s lazy attitude.

“It is not like I have a choice… I just returned from Fountain City last night.”

“By the way, doesn't Eco also look sleepy?”

Raymond gave Eco who was standing right beside Ash a glance and gave a bitter smile. But the next moment, his eyes widened.

“Could it be that…! Last night…. The two of you have advanced to become adults…!”

“Idiot! You speak too loud! That’s impossible!”

Ash was red in the cheeks. If it was the Ash from months ago, he wouldn't have been bothered if Raymond made fun of him and Eco. But for today, he was obviously shaken. Ash took a peek at Eco. Although she was still sleepy, the morning rays that shone into the hall had further emphasized Eco’s beauty, even though they were in the midst of people. It gave her a feeling of a noble. Her hair was pink and was reflecting silvery rays of lights. Her skin was white and the chip on her left horn that Ash had smashed off had recovered. Recently, Ash was confused about his feelings. With just a glance at Eco, he could clearly feel his chest tightening. Seeing that Ash suddenly turned silent, Raymond asked in a demanding tone:

“Hold on! Isn't your reply a little weird! Could it be you really…!”

“Raymond! Shut up…!”

Max pushed Raymond aside and had his mouth covered.

“Is it true that many things happened in Fontaine City? Even the Continental Congress - Elysium was postponed. It probably had something to do with Eco and you right?”

Ash was surprised at how sharp Max was.

“Actually, for the both of you to stay at the capital for nearly two weeks didn't sound natural to me. After the incident, the government should be busy dealing with the aftereffects. If I were the Paladin, the first thing that I would do was to send you back home. Unless…”

Max adjusted his glasses with his fingers, and threw a glance at Ash.

“Both of you were not staying there but were held in custody.”

Ash was shocked by Max’s deduction ability. In just a moment, he no longer felt sleepy.

===Part 2===
It was two weeks ago -

A mysterious dragon had attacked the capital and the Continental Congress- Elysium was put on hold. It had always been the topic of everybody’s talk since that day. As for the true identity behind the huge dragon, it was Eco who had awakened as the descendant of the Avalon Holy Dragons Emperor’s family. At the end of the battle, Ash managed to change Eco back to her human form and all ended peacefully. Until what awaited them were the days of the interrogation. Just like what Max had pointed out, it was not that Ash and Eco were staying at Fontaine City, it was just that they were forbidden from leaving it. They were only released by yesterday afternoon. It had already been midnight when Silvia gave them a ride back on Lancelot. It seemed that Silvia was worried about both of them and thus chose to stay back at Fontaine City. If they were to return to Ansarivan on land, he would have never been able to attend this closing ceremony. This was the reason why Ash and Eco were sleepy.

On the other hand, Silvia who should be sleepy was at the front of the queue for the first year advance class with her back straightened up. It was as expected from the Knight’s princess, everyone could feel her regal dignity.

“What do you think of it, Ash?”

While Max threw him a sharp glance, Raymond was eagerly waiting for him to answer.

“That…”

To Ash, Raymond and Max were his important friends. Just when he thought of telling them the truth, something weird happened.

''-Bang!''

The door of the hall was suddenly opened with a loud bang. All the students turned around in shock.

“Huh? What happened?”

Eco who had dozed off while standing took a great shock. She immediately looked at the situation around her. Ash also took a look at the door. At that instant, the attention had been robbed from him. In the middle of the doorway stood a modest girl who radiated an elegant feeling. Her neatly worn clothing was a white blouse and a bluish purple coloured skirt that matched with her black boots. The feeling she gave was obviously a daughter of someone with high social status. Apart from that, there was a maid following her from behind. She was pushing a trolley with tea sets on it. Under the eyes of every student, the girl walked straight to the stage as if it was a natural thing to do.

“Greetings to everyone from Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy.”

When she was greeting, the purple reflections from her silver coloured hair made it seemed like she was wearing a halo. Ash gulped down his saliva when he saw her beauty. She was totally like a saint… But unlike all the other statues of the Saints that he had seen before, she didn't possess the kind and caring smile on her face. Her appearance made her look like the ice carving made from the Glacier of Doruaama in the far north. After a short glance at the entire student body, she spoke:

“I am Mirabel Lautreamont, the third princess. Under the orders of my elder sister Veronica, I was asked to work as the Director in this academy. Please take good care of me."

The entire hall became silent. Ash was also staring at Mirabel. He expected her to be from some high class family but for her to be a princess… Suddenly Silvia who was at the front row shouted:

“Anee-ue! What is the meaning of this? I heard that you went to Espada St. Law University to further your studies…”

After hearing that, Ash realized that Mirabel was Silvia’s sister. Everyone’s attention was on Mirabel. Even the teaching instructors who were standing along the walls were also trying to find out. Right at that moment, as if to break apart the deep silence, the eleven o'clock bell rang. The moment she heard the sound of the bell, Mirabel gave the maid a sharp glare.

“Eunice. It’s time for my tea.”

“Absolutely, Princess.”

The maid who was following Mirabel like a shadow was making tea at a fast speed.

“Please.”

“Thank you.”

Mirabel took the boiling cup of tea and sat on a folding chair that Eunice took out. She then relaxed herself and drank the tea.

“…”

Everyone was watching her movements in surprise. Even Silvia was waiting for Mirabel to finish her tea before she tried speaking. After a short moment, she passed the tea cup back to Eunice and once again, looked back at Silvia.

“So Silvia? What were you asking?”

“I was asking how come you became the Director? Please explain! By the way, where is the ex-Director who had been working here until yesterday?”

“Aa…You are talking about the old man who had a foot in a coffin? He should be having his vacation in a popular tourist spot in Chevron Kingdom. Given that he had a raise in his pension, he shouldn't have any complaints.”

“Wha-!”

Silvia turned speechless.

===Part 3===
“Hey… What is happening? What is going to happen to the closing ceremony?”

Eco who was standing beside Ash asked. With so many things happening around, she was no longer sleepy.

“Err… I don’t know?”

Right at the moment, a thought flash-passed. For the third princess to be ordered to become the director of Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy in such a weird time, it should have some connections with the incident in the capital. The true identity behind the huge dragon was Eco and there were very few people who knew about this. First Princess Veronica was one of them. In the beginning, the Knight’s government took her as an element of danger and wanted her to be under strict surveillance. But Veronica was the first person to disagree with this idea afraid that Eco would transform into a dragon if she was pushed to her limit. How good will that be if that was true. However, Veronica was not to be looked down upon. She would never have released them easily. Ash knew her way of thinking from his past experience. That being said, Mirabel did mention that ''‘Under the orders of my elder sister Veronica’''. So, in another words, Mirabel becoming the academy’s Director was all in Veronica’s plan.

''-Does it mean that Mirabel is here to keep an eye on us…?''

Just moments before, Ash was under the impression that he had just been released and the holidays were starting. But now, he felt like being thrown a bucket full of cold water. Suddenly, Mirabel looked as if she remembered something and stopped talking to Silvia. She then looked around the hall.

“How careless of me to forget something important. Is Ash Blake and young dragon Eco present?”

Everyone’s attention was on them. They felt as if they were being pierced by their sight.

“Hol-!... What is…!?”

Eco was starting to feel uncomfortable and couldn't calm down. She immediately hid behind Ash. Anyway, it was disrespectful to not answer Mirabel’s call.

“We are here.”

Ash took a deep breath and dragged Eco onto the stage together with him. Eco was now like a different person. She was looking graceful and held on to his hand tightly. Ash's heart was beating non-stop from being able to feel her body heat. While he was walking towards the stage, the rest of the students made way for him. However, Ash wasn't able to enjoy it right now. In a short moment, Ash arrived at the stage.

“I am Ash Blake and she is my Pal Eco.”

After a glance, she gave a short answer:

“Come.”

It seemed that she wanted them to step up on the stage. Ash walked onto the stage with many pairs of eyes looking at him. He felt embarrassed with Eco holding his hand the entire time, but Eco kept on holding his hand firmly without any intention of letting go. After they were on the stage, Mirabel kept on looking at them. Her eyes seem to be transparent with difference from Silvia’s and Veronica’s blue eyes. Suddenly Mirabel stretched her hand towards Eunice.

“Hand me the sword.”

“Absolutely.”

Ash was in a shock. Eunice took out a rapier from the trolley. ''T-There is actually something like this in the trolley…''

Once Mirabel took her rapier, she removed it from its sheath. The clear white sword reflected the sun rays. Mirabel then approached Ash with her right hand holding the rapier and her left hand holding the sheath. As for the students who were starting to become restless from being confused, Mirabel told them in a cold voice:

“Silence!”

Her voice was obviously not loud but it was also definitely without a hint of anger. But it was enough to do its job. The students felt pressure from her voice alone. After all the students became silent, Mirabel turned her sight back to Ash.

“I have a message for you from my father Oswald.”

“From the Paladin…?”

Ash was confused.

“Didn't my father bestow you a silver watch which is the proof of a Dragner?”

“He certainly did…”

“Except that the knighting ceremony was never done, right?”

“That seems to be the case. It seems that the castle wasn't a suitable place during that time.”

“With that reason alone, I, Mirabel Lautreamont in place of my father will take over your Knighting ceremony. Please kneel down.”

“W-With pleasure!”

Ash kneeled down immediately and told Eco who was standing to do the same in a low voice. However, Eco usually saw people as ‘dumb, stupid and dense’. ''Will she kneel down quietly without a fight if the person she was facing is a royal?''

Ash was sweating tremendously.

“Alright…”

To his surprise, she did what she was told. She kneeled down right beside Ash.

“What I did is for you.”

Her murmurs and her rosy cheeks were unexpected. While Ash’s heart skipped a beat, Mirabel started to recite:

“Ash Blake from Ansarivan Dragon Riding Academy advance class first year. At the age of seven, thou took part in the Orphan Ceremony in Albion Forest. Thou had been consecrated by the great mother dragon and received an Orphan. By that, thou had officially become a Breeder.
And now, thy Pal, Eco surpass thee expatiation and had a remarkable growth. Now, representing Paladin Oswald, in my name Mirabel Lautreamont shall I place my rapier on thy shoulders.” <ref>This was spoken in a poetic from. </ref>
[[Image:SnRK v05 029.jpg|thumb]]

Mirabel placed her rapier on Ash’s shoulders smoothly. It was a part of the Knighting ceremony. Though the rapier itself looked fine, it actually felt heavy on his shoulders.

“Do you as a proud knight swear your loyalty to the Lautreamont royal family?”

"I swear in the name of my Seikoku and my beloved Pal.”

Ash deliberately stated the standard pledge. Eco’s shoulder trembled a little as Ash said the words ‘beloved Pal’. However, Ash did not have the luxury to take a peek at her. After that Mirabel remained still. Her actions confused Ash, but then he remembered something important. He held the silver watch bestowed to him by Oswald and placed it next to his heart. This was also a part of the knighting ceremony. After Mirabel sheathed her sword, the ceremony ended. Suddenly, the entire hall was full of cheers. It was because the knighting ceremony was usually held in the St Rosa. Maria Cathedral in the capital, but now they had the chance to experience it here.

The entire hall was full of the claps and sounds of students cheering as if everyone had forgotten about the closing ceremony.

===Part 4===
"Tsk, what a day…”

Ash was leaving the public bath in the Apollo house with a towel on his shoulder. Since the lights-out hour was approaching, the corridor was empty. Ash tried recalling all the events that happened in the morning while he was running up the stairs. After returning to his classroom after the ceremony, he was flooded with questions. As expected, most of the questions asked were about Eco. The difference between a Dragner and a Breeder could only be judged from their Pals. Although dragons were born in the form of either a Strada, Hydra or Asia, after being taken care of, they had a possibility to evolve into the mysterious Maestro. They had white fur and a huge amount of magic. To the Knights, they were the country’s treasure.

Basically, when a Pal evolved into a Maestro, a Breeder was qualified to become a Dragner. However, Eco was in the form of a girl. To state it clearly, she was an exception that could not suit any class. In spite of that, Paladin Oswald had bestowed Ash the title Dragner. That was the reason why the rest of the students were full of questions. Except that if they knew that Eco was the huge dragon that had attacked the capital, they would have to acknowledge him. Her overwhelming presence and the destructive power she possessed that can crush an airship, plus being the surviving bloodline of the Avalon Holy Dragons Emperor. Even the proud Maestros prostrated themselves in front of her. Of course Ash didn't publicize this. Well, he was forbidden from doing so. Right after Eco was awakened, she crushed the huge Zepharos Empire’s Airship Beowolf. It was clear that the Empire deserved it. However, the Empire did not admit their wrong doing and furthermore pushed the blame on the Knights. On the other hand, the Chevron Kingdom which suffered no losses were unhappy that the Knights did not reveal any information regarding Eco to them. Ash had just come to known this from the recent news.

In short, Eco herself was an international threat.

“What am I going to do from here on…?”

Ash suddenly thought of Princess Mirabel. Although she didn't seems to be someone like Veronica, however she also didn't look like an easy nut to crack. With all such troubles in his head Ash returned to his room. Eco was rolling on her bed waiting for time to pass but she immediately jumped up the moment she saw Ash.

“…Huh?”

Ash felt that something was off and he immediately realized what it was. That’s right, Eco who always slept stark naked was wearing a cute negligee that day. The pure white cloth should be made out of silk. Under the lights of the Bright Dragon Crystal, her outline could be clearly seen. Even her breasts and the tips could almost be seen. It was obvious that Eco was not wearing any undergarments. Ash had a hard time looking as she looked more alluring than when she was naked.

“W-Where did you get that from?”

Eco suddenly became uneasy when she was asked.

“…It was one of Silvia’s old clothing that Cosette gave me.”

“But didn't you say you hate wearing anything when you sleep? You even said that you can't sleep without being naked.”

Eco crossed her arms and glared at Ash.

“…Aren't you acting suspicious when I am naked?”

“Well, I am a guy. I couldn't possibly calm down when there is a naked girl in front of me.”

“I don’t quite actually know what kind of feeling that was…. Anyway, I just have to put on some clothes.”

Suddenly Eco was looking embarrassed and she slowly took a peek at Ash.

“T-That’s why…. You… can come… here….”

“Huh?”

“Argh…. You idiot! I am saying that we can sleep together! Why do you have to make me tell you everything!”

Ash doubted what he had just heard. Eco who ordered Ash to sleep on the floor and monopolized the entire bed was right now asking Ash to sleep together.

''What is happening to her?''

“Never mind. I am used to sleeping on the floor and that bed is yours.”

In short, Eco was getting mad at him for being too worrisome.

“I said I am allowing it! You always pretend that it is nothing…. But your body must be hurting. The injuries are not yet healed right?”

Ash was speechless. In truth, the injuries he suffered from during his battle with Gawain and Mordred had not recovered yet. Sometimes, he could still feel pain from his body. But he never expected Eco to see through him.

“Even the injury that could had been healed can never be healed if you sleep on the floor.”

Eco turned around with her back facing Ash and covered herself with the blanket. She even remembered to leave some space for Ash. While keeping that position, she took a peek at Ash.

Their sights connected.

“…!”

Eco was suddenly blushing and she turned her head back. It seems that she was not going to take back her words. Ash made up his mind and tuned the lamp to its dimmest. With the help from his hands, he walked towards the bed.

“S-Sorry for the intrusion.”

Ash was all tense. Not only that he was speaking politely, he even nearly bit his tongue.

“You are acting weird.”

It was probably caused by Ash’s actions that Eco was smiling. But thanks to that, the tension lessened. Ash lied down beside Eco. Thinking back, Eco had squeezed into Ash’s bed for many times in her sleep. And she was naked during those times. This situation should be nothing to him. However, Ash regretted what he had just thought of just moments later. There was a sweet smell coming from Eco’s body and hair. That was obviously the smell of a girl.

“…!”

His heart was beating at a very fast pace. Eco squeezing into his bed and them sleeping together from the start were two totally different things. When he took a look at Eco, it seemed that she was still wide awake from being nervous. There was a mysterious feeling of nervousness coming from her petite body. That being said, if it was the usual Eco, she would have definitely fallen asleep that moment she laid on the bed. Suddenly, Ash remembered his conversation he had with Eco. In the guest room in Fontaine City, she did mention something like this:

''I am happy that… I am your Pal… And. You are my knight…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!''

That was the first time Eco had freely expressed her own feelings. During that time, Ash too felt like kissing Eco. Also, during that time, Eco didn't seem to resist. To his disappointment, before they could kiss, they were interrupted. After that, there never seemed to be a right atmosphere to try it again…

===Part 5===
…In the end, Eco was finally asleep after turning off the lights for an hour. Ash breathed a sigh of relief when he heard her snoring. But then he was faced with another challenge.

Sometimes, when Eco turned around, their shoulders came into contact. Since their pyjamas were made of thin material, Ash had the impression that their skins were touching each other. Or else, it was Eco’s face that was getting too near that caused his heart to skip a beat. At the same time he was aware of Eco’s charm, Ash was staring at her lips. He once again remembered their unfinished kiss.

''What if I give her a kiss right now…'' Ash struggled to keep away his wild thought.

“Oh god. Now I will never be able to sleep…”

"Mirabel Lautreamont ~A.S.B.1365.7~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Novel Illustrations|Illustrations]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 5 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
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|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue

2018-10-08T17:08:35Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and some restructuring.

==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 could 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 remained 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 repeatedly suffered from strong centrifugal forces. It was 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 described 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 was the time for her afternoon nap. She wore her one-piece pajama stark naked which made her look a little sexy. It seemed that the afternoon nap was an important routine in the Eckbald'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 came to visit him once in a while. But it was only in namesake that she was visiting him. In reality, it had always turned into 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 a 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 fella over there is my meat slave!”

Eco jumped onto the bed and showed her teeth to Lucca while trying to catch her. But Lucca was a girl who grew up in the forest. Even though she was still sleepy she was 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, he was 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 was hot and her cheeks were hot. Her body was also hot. There was particular feeling 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 could only continue to beg and struggle, her breathing becoming 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]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4

2018-10-08T17:02:01Z

Foggy glasses: Final set of grammar changes and restructuring..

==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 couldn'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 while 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 had hoped that it would be a more peaceful game. But the swimsuits worn by both Eco and Silvia was deeply engraved in Ash’s mind. Eco was wearing a white swimsuit which brought out her cute self. Even though her body was still far from perfect… There were still guys who were sure to fall for her innocent look. Although her true ruthless attitude would be exposed as soon as she opened 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 wouldn't have been Silvia who chose a bikini exposing so much of her skin, but Cosette, the culprit who must have forced it on her. Ash quickly removed all these troubles from his mind and left his bed. The bedroom in the training camp was a twin sharing bedroom. Max was sleeping soundly at the bed beside. Eco was not in the room 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 it would be true.

“Wait a minute…”

The Eckbalds were also known as the ‘Forest Yōsei’. Actually. The self ruled territory of the Eckbalds, within the Knight Country was 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 touched something slimy, he immediately retracted his hand. If there was a small animal that passed by his feet, he immediately jumped.

“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 was because Norg Forest was a well known resting spot for dragons.

“I see. She went to look for Gawain…”

Realizing the truth, Ash continued to walk deeper into the forest. After a while… His field of vision widened. In front of him was an empty space with the moonlight shining directly from the sky. There was 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, that 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 was 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, wiping of her tears turned back and looked at Ash’s direction. It seemed that there was no longer any point for him to be hiding. After Ash made up his mind… He walked out 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 was 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 stood in front of Gawain as if he wanted to protect Lucca.

“Say, Lucca. The previous experiment… Can I continue 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 alone should be reason 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 on Ash. She became interested in Ash who had sneaked out into the Norg Forest. After all… The reason, why she 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…'' thought Anya secretly. 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 seemed 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 was 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 wondered why she suddenly got mad.

===Part 3===
The sharp claws tore through the moonlight mercilessly. Ash immediately jumped aside from the strong front paw. He would die in a horrible way if he faced 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 used 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 was 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 mounted 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 his grip, Gawain had no chance of winning. As long as Ash remained on its back… Gawain can’t use its breath attack, magic, teeth or claws. If it was so, then what was 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 couldn't even feel a single pain after such serious injuries. As if this body was 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 was the reason he was sent flying, it was a thin layer of magic.

“Reflecting type… Defense magic!”

This was 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 defence 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 lost consciousness… He felt that he heard Lucca calling after him.

===Part 4===
“This can'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 thought there was hope deep inside her heart. Since Ash was the famous ‘Silver Knight’. But the result was clear in a blink of an eye.

“Just what kind of rascal is it…”

Ash who was hit by the dragon’s tail pitifully, remained motionless even though he still remained conscious after he landed. Maybe he was dead. Under the moonlight, he could only be described as pitiful. Not only 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. Serves 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 honour 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 was unlucky there would be questions about why a staff member in charge of food service, was in the Norg Forest. Well, ''that'' would be a problem in the future but she just needed 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, was trying to carry Ash’s upper body. Didn't she know that simply moving the body of an injured person would 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 were only just fragments of memories. Even though he was seriously injured he still didn'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 was sitting beside the bed, right next to him 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 coloured 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 don’t even have a scratch on me right now though I was seriously injured !”

“You are not dreaming.”

“I-If I’m not dreaming… Then I’m in ‘that world’?"

Navi laughed because she probably thought that Ash panicking looked 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 rejected 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.." said Navi and continued.

"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 never told anyone about this.”

Although Ash didn't really know how Lucca was 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 didn'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 was… Ash's legs were slowly lifting from the ground. If this continued… Then he would 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 were 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 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 existed such a kiss. Navi was with her, rarely seen, blushing looks and crimson red watery iris.

“I hope 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 was… This place didn'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 hurt… This was not the time to worry about that. The moment he flipped over the blanket… He saw something unbelievable. Even after he immediately covered 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 were hidden… 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 wasn't a single piece of clothing left. It was probably that the clothes will interfere with his treatment. So the reason why he was naked could still be explained. But… Why would Lucca sleep on the same bed as him naked?

Ash looked all over the infirmary again. From the looks of the sky it should be morning right now. Not a sound could be heard from the lakeside. Surrounding the bed were silver flasks that looked like lamp stands.

“This is…?”

There were water coloured 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.” nodded Ash after it dawned on him.

Suddenly his chest started hurting.

“It hurts!"

Even when they have used healing magic, it seemed 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 was apparent, he would 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 grabbed and hugged him.

“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 was not the time for him to blush in the presence of a naked Yōsei body .

“S-Sorry...”

She let go of Ash gloomily. Ash, averting his eyes away from the white tender naked body, simply came out with the question...

“I-It’s alright, because I’m already healed, b-but could you please put on some clothes? Back to the topic… Why were you sleeping on the same bed with me?”

“…”

Lucca reached to pick up her one-piece pajama from the floor, while Ash made use of this time to cover his own naked body with the blanket. Lucca, who had gotten up to put on her pajama, sat down on a chair beside the bed and only then did she answer Ash's question.

“It was because your body’s temperature was dropping… So I’m trying to warm you up.

“I-Is that so. Thank you very much.”

After thanking her kindly… Ash remembered the incident that happened in the Dragon Workshop.

“That’s right…! It may be hard to believe, but… I was at the Dragon Workshop!”

“Dragon Workshop?”

Lucca was surprised.

“That’s it. The workshop where the dragons fabricate their creations. I had a conversation there with Gawain.”

“Huh…?”

Ash tried to explain to Lucca who was stunned.

===Part 7===
After Ash told her the truth, Lucca was in tears.

“Why… Gawain… Because of me… Just because to protect me… It would rather sacrifice its life...”

When he saw Lucca's shaking shoulders, as she was crying, Ash discovered something. He had thought of her as a girl without emotions. But that was not the truth. She was just someone who can’t express their emotions well. Her crying for Gawain was 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!” shouted Ash, although he knew this was a little cruel to her.

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 meant that he had lost consciousness since the first night of the training camp until just now. Although the training camp lasted for seven days, in reality there was 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 was 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 was… They must make sure of Gawain’s safety. If Navi's prediction was 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 seemed to be Eco. Her shiny hair swayed as she rushed up to the bed side. It was 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 alone were enough to give him a heartache. It was 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…'' feared Ash.

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 was usually 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 members, led by Rebecca, rushed into the infirmary as a crowd.

“You moron!”

Silvia unhappily scolded.

“Thanks to you for being an idiot I fully enjoyed 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 widened.

“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 desperately 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 sighed 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 have never agreed 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 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 was a mausoleum, all the bodies would be buried nicely. But, there seemed 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 seemed 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 was 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 thought that this was 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 should have been rocks originally, now had a rectangular hole. She immediately shone her bright dragon crystal powered torch. The hole was 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 was sure of was 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 was the size of a classroom at the academy. In this dug out space, bookshelves, tables, sofas and other furniture could 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 would 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 lit 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 was 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 emitted 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 worshiped Rosa Maria and made it as the country’s religion. The bible that recorded the teaching was usually called the Stella Biblia It recorded the life of Saint Rosa Maria and her pal Eco. The believers learned the religion’s teaching through the study of Rosa Maria and Eco’s way of life. The reason why Ash named his pal ‘Eco’ was because of he was influenced by this Stella Biblia.

By the way, although it was said that the ‘Stella Biblia’ had two versions which were the ‘Old Testament’ and ‘New Testament”, only the ‘New Testament’ was 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 feels 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 could 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 emitted an evil aura. Although his attire was of a mercenary, he gave out an extraordinary feel that made his clothes stand out. A girl with oat coloured skin was silently standing behind him. Her face looked handsome and cute but her eyes expressed strong determination. This small sized girl was wearing her tribal gear. The metal glove in her left hand attracted attention and there was a high possibility that there were 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 signified a fire element. Her only winning chance would be the element of surprise… But Milgauss, as if he 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 was 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 took 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, 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 was almost the same as Julius’s. Even after he put on the mask and changed his hair style… The manner in which he spoke 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 bent 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 for you… to come to Willingham Mausoleum-”

At the same time… Angela thought of the only possibility. The culprit guilty of using the Necromancia, to attack Ansarivan, was yet to be found out. But, according to the time when Milgauss appeared at Ansarivan, it was reasonable to suspect him.

''-The crucial material of creating the Necromancia were the bones of the dragons.''

If Milgauss was 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 was 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 was 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 also 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."

“…Understood.” replied Anya.

Even when she was still troubled by it, Milgauss had turned around facing another side.

“Milgauss-sama…?’

Anya was confused. She didn'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 was 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 hurt he was now able to 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 was the truth that he was still badly injured. Not only his head but his entire body was wrapped up into a mummy. Apart from going to the washroom he was forbidden 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 was ending, the preparations for the campfire were still going on. In about an hour, 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 was 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 was for Lucca to overcome her fear towards Gawain so the Astral, that connected both of them, may continue to flow.

“Zzz… Zzz…”

Eco was sleeping peacefully with her head on the bed. It was 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 swim wear, wore only a thin shirt covering her top which made her look quite sexy. Rebecca's swim wear was red in colour and since her shirt was unbuttoned, her deep cleavage, thin white waist and the bikini lines were totally visible.

“Rebecca-san…!”

Ash didn'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 was rare to see her panicking when she always did things so deliberately.

Eco seemed 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?” asked Ash, more than concerned.

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 overcame her fear of falling from Gawain’s back, Gawain would 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 is 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 declared as if wanting to change the atmosphere in the room:

“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 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.”

That was 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 cared and worried about Ash.

“Please, forgive me, Eco. I couldn't just kept on watching silently. That fella is not a weak dragon.”

“B-But…”

“If you worry about me Eco, then why won't you come with me?”

Eco immediately blushed like a wildfire.

“W-What… M-Me… I never worried about you!”

Ash was not bothered by Eco, who kept on denying herself while shaking her hands, and bowed down in front of Rebecca.

“I beg you… Rebecca.”

“Tsk… I don’t think I can say no. Or else, the closing ceremony will go on as usual but all the student council’s members will help in the search."

“No, that won’t work out, if Rebecca-san is absent everyone will be suspicious about it. For such a ceremony… I hope that every student will enjoy it to the fullest.”

“But-”

Just when Rebecca wanted to explain… The infirmary room’s door opened with a loud bang.

“If that’s the case… I’ll take over that job of yours. As a dragner; We must help those who are in trouble. - This is the Lautreamont's family’s rules!” declared Silvia.

===Part 16===
The search party that had been decided upon consisted of four members - Ash, Silvia, Eco and Lucca. Max and Jessica had agreed to go with them but were stopped by Rebecca. Because if too many of the student council members were absent, suspicion will still arise among the students. Lancelot was now giving four people a ride with Silvia in front holding the reins.

''-Behind princess…''

Ash, who was right behind Silvia, was in fear. Riding on the dragon while wearing the dragsuit designed for the palace and having her hair tied up nicely… Silvia’s charms as a dragner and a princess emerged. Although Ash had previously rode on Lancelot with Silvia, during the Necromancia's attack, he was totally immersed in the battle that time. He hadn'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 was because 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 seemed that she didn't like the riding gear. Lancelot, who was now carrying four people, gracefully flew up and towards the sky.

===Part 17===
Walking from the training camp’s location by the lake to the Willingham Mausoleum would take about an hour. But, using Lancelot, they had arrived 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.” said Silvia while controlling the reins.

Just as Silvia had said… There was an entrance like building in the middle of the hills. The area surrounding the structure was well shrouded by a thin layer of silky mist. There was an altar-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 didn't matter how you looked at it; This place was just not suitable for a lady to enter alone. It was reasonable for Rebecca to become worried. They also must not 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 was the Norg Forest and Allonnes Lakeside. Not to mention the buildings for the training camp. The campfire along the Allonnes Lakeside had been lit at and the closing ceremony had officially begun. On the ground was a coffin-like box. Milgauss opened the lid and took out a gigantic black sword.

This same gigantic sword was the tool used to summon the Necromancia. This was 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 were a total of nine big crystals and more than twenty smaller ones. If it was to be on sale it could surely fetch a 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 seemed that they were heading for the mausoleum’s entrance. In a few moments he lost sight of Lancelot.

“Let’s begin.” murmured Milgauss exiting from the cover of the rocks.

Grabbing the hilt of the gigantic sword he 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 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…” answered Lucca softly.

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 attacked…?”

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 wouldn't let go of his right arm, and Lucca tightly clung 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 didn'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 had mad eyes, sharp teeth and a strong rotten smell.

“A young dragon sized… Necromancia?”

Just as Ash was speaking his thoughts… The leader of the Necromancia's attacked. After its mouth opened, shining rays could be seen- ''Don!'' And a ball of flames came flying along the ground.

Lancelot made a scary roar and activated its defensive magic’s shield and immediately the breath attack was nullified. But there was no time to thank Lancelot. The group had already extended their many deep red coloured tentacles now and 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 struggled 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... is 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 seemed that apart from the main door… There were other places that the Necromancia 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 was 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 coloured 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 cozy atmosphere around the closing ceremony’s campfire. But the Necromancia attacking from all three routes, 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 Necromancia were approaching. There was only about a hundred meters in between them.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Rebecca naturally led the attack.

“Gáe Bolg!”

A bright light appeared after the spell had ended and a long spear appeared. Gáe Bolg's light pierced through the dark sky followed by an explosion. One by one the Strada type Necromancia fell to the ground.

“Attack!”

Rebecca commanded like a general.

''“Oooooo!”''

Upon receiving the order… All the students attacked at the same time.

===Part 22===
Dim white lights were emitted from Lancelot’s horn. This was a basic magic for the dragons. Thus, Ash and the rest didn't have to rely on the bright-dragon-crystal torch while traversing the cave. Lancelot was walking forward silently and steadily through the cave. Its usual earth shaking footsteps almost couldn't be felt. This had lessened the amount of burden that Ash’s, medically weak, body had to endure.

“Thank you. Princess.”

Silvia was surprised that Ash spoke behind her ears and her neck suddenly gave a jerk. Because her hair was tied up with a red ribbon her white neck was exposed.

“Why are you acting with such ambiguity! I had done nothing that deserves your thanks!”

“You were worried about me and purposely asked Lancelot to slow down. Right? So…”

“I-I had never thought that far! How can we move quickly in this narrow space!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Silvia was shy about it. For such a great dragon like Lancelot… To move quickly in such a narrow space is but child’s play.

“-Careful!”

Silvia suddenly shouted.

“Ksharrrr!”

Three Strada type Necromancia attacked from the front. They looked more like bats than dragons. Even though they were once noble dragons in their own time, after they became Necromancia, they were no different from any undistinguished animal. Ash tensed. The next second...

“Grooooo….!”

Lancelot gave an angry roar… Along the path, where the brilliant dragon stepped passed, there were only ashes left behind.

“Such excellence.”

Upon hearing Ash’s murmur… Silvia proudly lifted her chest.

“Hmph… During your time spent recovering… I had completed every single course in the Selective Training Camp. The days when I did battle stimulations with the president was every day… I felt like crying when I did that."

What Silvia said felt like a sad tone hidden in it. She seemed to have experienced something terrible. Ash who had only experienced the first day’s lake water bath was regretting. But… the main reason Silvia became strong was mainly because of Princess Veronica’s encouragement. If Veronica hadn't visited Ansarivan last week… Silvia may not have turned over a new leaf.

“Back to the topic. Why haven’t we seen Angela-sensei yet?... I'm hoping she wasn't attacked by the Necromancia.”

Silvia sighed while looking at the mausoleum’s map.

“We also haven’t found Gawain yet… Lucca. Have you felt anything?”

“I can’t… Because the Astral was not connected… My ‘Seikoku’ is not responding."

Since Lucca couldn't feel anything; They could only ransack the entire cave. Although it would 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 exploded. 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 thought 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 won't cause much burden to the body?”

“What did you say?”

“Please, I believe that you are able to make an Ark that is suitable for my current situation.”

“H-How… Could you speak with such confidence!”

“Do you even need to ask? Because you are 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 would be left in this world. When the spirit left the body the empty shell would be defenceless.

“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 like a log. Her ears hidden in her hairs were red. As if hot air was 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 lost her strength and laid her head on Ash’s right shoulder. Ash had felt that her spirit had left her body.

“Our hopes are on you… Eco.”

Ash's 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 didn't look like a place that had Necromancia. Lancelot increased the light intensity of its horns to brighten the extra space. Silvia was holding the reins with her right hand and was checking the map with her left.

“According to this map… This should be the centre of the mausoleum.”

“Centre...”

Ash was holding on to Eco who was still unconscious tightly while looking around. Silvia turned back and was secretly looking at Ash’s face.

“...”

Just to make a new Ark for Ash, Eco had went to the dragon workshop. Ash kept on holding to her petite body tightly for some time. Of course the reason Ash did so was to prevent Eco from falling off from Lancelot... But Silvia had been jumpy ever 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 hadn'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 colour 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 chosen to be a breeder... And yet a coward like you was chosen.”

“What... Did you say?”

The way Milgauss spoke was as if he knew a lot of her background information, 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 Milgauss, her heart tightened. Milgauss suddenly gave a smile. A smile of a father who cared about his child. A peaceful and caring smile.

“You have grown… Sylvie.”

“Wha-!”

Silvia felt a cold chill. No matter how wide the world was… The only ones who would call her by her pet name were her 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 the Lautreamont Knight Country… Killing a dragon was the utmost offense. Even if it was the prince of the Knight’s royal family… He would 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 that 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 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 didn't know what that meant. ''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 young dragons! Even after they became Necromancia… They are still no match for my Lancelot!”

Silvia declared but Milgauss was not even bothered by it.

“Is it so? I had sent most of them to the training campsite. Those Necromancia 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 was appearing from beneath.

“Roarrrrr...!”

A roar, as if it had arisen from hell, followed and their fight with Lancelot had started. Strong wings. Thick jaws and sharps horns… Apart from their dark skin… They had 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 loved 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.”

The mature version of Eco 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 was to search amongst all the various parts, or component blueprints, and identify those that suit Ash the most. She would be fine if it was just that, 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 an Ark that didn't overly burden the person wearing it. So this problem had nothing to do with time and she could 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, began 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 disappeared immediately and the left over were the important ones.

“W-What a fast searching speed...” murmured a stunned Eco…

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 is facing great danger.”

Navi was looking at the three dimensional screen projected in mid-air with a serious expression.

“Then be quick!” cried Eco.

“It seems that we must act quickly.”

Navi again placed her palm on Eco’s head and resumed the transfer.

===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 retreated 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!” disagreed Silvia stubbornly.

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 you should never have done that!”

“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 was easy to understand how she felt. Because Gawain had followed in Nuada's footsteps and had disappeared for Lucca's sake. Her emotional reaction was probably founded on this. Ash was worried about the current situation.

“Young dragon Nuada! I swear, in the name of the Lautreamont Royal Knight's Family, I will defeat you! This is the only thing that I can do for you!”

In reply, to Silvia’s sworn oath, Lancelot roared with a high pitch and immediately attacked Nuada. It stood on its hind legs and piled on attacks with its front. Upon seeing this Nuada also stood up and defended with its front legs. The two ferocious dragon began a battle between titans. All of a sudden… Nuada opened its lower jaw and blew out some black gas. It was almost a zero range, point blank, attack…

“Urgh…!”

Ash felt something was wrong and he hugged Eco tightly to protect her. He was angry at his useless self who couldn't do anything. Lancelot also remained strong. Just before Nuada's breath attack exploded it triggered its own defensive magic.

-The sound of explosions kept shaking their ears. The explosions were reflected back to Nuada, who was too close to the defensive magic, and immediately more explosions were heard. Lancelot's defensive magic was extremely sturdy and Ash only felt a slight vibration.

“Great…!”

Right until now… Ash had kept his eyes open. Half of Nuada's head had disappeared and its grey coloured brain could be seen. Even though it appeared to be defeated it was 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 Necromancia were approaching Lucca. Their tentacles were already tearing off Lucca's dragsuit. The iron 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 was 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 oozing 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!”

But she was 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 was a striking white coloured armour with red stripes. A red striped white Ark! Ash was now an Ark-Dragner. This armour was stronger than what Milgauss saw at Ansarivan increasing his interest in it. The areas in which it became stronger were in defence 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 laughed. 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 was 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 seemed that the Ark couldn't totally suppress his pain. But he didn't back down in this situation.

“Kyaaaa!”

The moment the tentacles disappeared… Eco and Lucca fell from mid-air.

Ash immediately slid towards the bottom of the two and managed to secure both of them right before they hit 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 ‘defence’! 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 didn'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 Necromancia 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. It's front looked like a dragon’s head and was made up of five units together. All of the five units were flying around under Ash’s command. When they had surrounded the Asia type Necromancia… The shields then projected colourful lights. These units were not normal shields. They all had the characteristics of a magic cannon. The continuous lights that were attacking the Asia type Necromancia 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 was 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 was 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 couldn'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 was very cold and it didn't seem like summer anymore. At the top of the nearby hills there were many stubs of bare rock. Luckily, although the surroundings were dark, the Ark produced a dim light. Also, since he had been in the dark cave for a long time, his eyes were 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 was the easiest. He remembered the time when he met Milgauss for the first time in the forest. Ash didn't even have the ability to fight back during that time. Because, before he managed to land a hit on Milgauss, Ash was ambushed by Milgauss's underling. He was nearly killed by that girl. But the situation right now was different. Ash was protected by Eco’s Ark and he had decided to KO his opponent in one hit.

But-

With only his left hand Milgauss, had blocked Ash’s right punch. He had focused all his strength in that punch too.

“How is this possible…?”

“Hmph. Is the strength of an Ark-Dragner just like this?”

“Urgh…”

He couldn't move his right hand at all. It was similar to being clenched by a pair of pliers.

“This proves that you are just a fake.”

Milgauss's tone was as cold as iron. There was a gigantic sword in his right hand.

“Wha…!”

Ash widened his eyes in disbelief. It was 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 was a sudden black gust. Ash, whose right hand was 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 re-summoned 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 had 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 breath 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 was 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 was not careful––she would 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. She 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 would have been fine if she was just worrying too much… But just in case Eco’s instinct was right… Then Milgauss was 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 was not surprising that she thought herself to 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. He 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 settled, 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 had 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 swung 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 though his flesh was being sliced off. But now was 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 was not only just a normal human without the protection of the Ark… He was 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 was 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 wanted 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 was, he would still face trouble when he was going against Silvia. Logically speaking, Silvia should also know about this but she continued to stand still without any reason.

“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…” provoked Milgauss.

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 was not just some average ordinary guy. He should have survived the fall. And he would 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 laid 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 ran out of magic. We only had the strength left to frighten Milgauss just now."

Ash only now knew why Silvia would let him escape. Because she didn't even have the ability left to order him around. Back to the topic, if it was not because of Silvia’s and Lancelot’s intimidation, Ash would have died under Milgauss sword.

“And also, maybe… That guy…”

Silvia’s troubled looks made Ash curious.

“Princess?”

“N-Nothing. Just pretend that I didn't say anything!”

Silvia, panicky, waved Ash off which in turns worried him further. At this instant, Lucca said. “The training campsite is…”

Eco was also looking at the direction of the campsite dumbstruck.

“How come…!”

By following their sight… Ash also turned speechless. Just like Milgauss declared, the training campsite had become a battlefield. The Necromancia's attack had yet to be stopped. There were numerous sounds of explosions and the lights from the magic were flashing here and there. Although the campsite was safe, the dragon house beside was on fire and there were black smokes all over the night sky.

''Is everyone still alright? What about Rebecca? Max? And the rest? The instructors? The staffs for the training campsite? The girls who were in charge of the food service?''

“Damn… Even when we wanted to help them…”

Ash felt that he was filled with desperation. ''Apart from standing on the hills and looking from afar… We couldn't even do a thing-''

As if to cheer him up, Lucca pulled Ash’s sleeves.

“I have 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 moved towards the edge of the cliff… Which was also the place where Milgauss jumped off from.

''Shoo… Shoo…'' The sounds of the winds passed 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 reached Ash… He was 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 fell 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 understood 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 was 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! Take 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 caught 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 was to save the students and Ash was 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 hope 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 it was, but 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 annihilated 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 continued to regenerate and stood 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 mausoleum 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 wanted to 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 would 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 ruffling 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 was not bothered by ants, 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 knew 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 personally experienced 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 w be activated.''

Ash’s eyes widened.

“Isn't this a ‘Seikoku’!”

That’s right! The image that Lucca and Gawain completed together was 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 could still continue the battle. Upon seeing all the Necromancia at the lakeside had been defeated, the student cheered in unison. Even the injured patients who were taking refuge back at the training campsite ran out to the lakeside and cheered. Looking at Gawain, who was flying energetically through the night sky, Rebecca chuckled.

“Since the ancient times the Eckbalds, who were dragners, were called ‘Elfn Dancer’. The Lucca right now best fits the descriptions-”

"Elfn Dancer ~A.S.B 1365.6~"is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4

2018-10-08T12:53:44Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and major restructuring.. But still in progress.

==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 couldn'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 while 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 had hoped that it would be a more peaceful game. But the swimsuits worn by both Eco and Silvia was deeply engraved in Ash’s mind. Eco was wearing a white swimsuit which brought out her cute self. Even though her body was still far from perfect… There were still guys who were sure to fall for her innocent look. Although her true ruthless attitude would be exposed as soon as she opened 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 wouldn't have been Silvia who chose a bikini exposing so much of her skin, but Cosette, the culprit who must have forced it on her. Ash quickly removed all these troubles from his mind and left his bed. The bedroom in the training camp was a twin sharing bedroom. Max was sleeping soundly at the bed beside. Eco was not in the room 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 it would be true.

“Wait a minute…”

The Eckbalds were also known as the ‘Forest Yōsei’. Actually. The self ruled territory of the Eckbalds, within the Knight Country was 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 touched something slimy, he immediately retracted his hand. If there was a small animal that passed by his feet, he immediately jumped.

“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 was because Norg Forest was a well known resting spot for dragons.

“I see. She went to look for Gawain…”

Realizing the truth, Ash continued to walk deeper into the forest. After a while… His field of vision widened. In front of him was an empty space with the moonlight shining directly from the sky. There was 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, that 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 was 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, wiping of her tears turned back and looked at Ash’s direction. It seemed that there was no longer any point for him to be hiding. After Ash made up his mind… He walked out 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 was 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 stood in front of Gawain as if he wanted to protect Lucca.

“Say, Lucca. The previous experiment… Can I continue 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 alone should be reason 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 on Ash. She became interested in Ash who had sneaked out into the Norg Forest. After all… The reason, why she 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…'' thought Anya secretly. 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 seemed 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 was 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 wondered why she suddenly got mad.

===Part 3===
The sharp claws tore through the moonlight mercilessly. Ash immediately jumped aside from the strong front paw. He would die in a horrible way if he faced 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 used 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 was 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 mounted 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 his grip, Gawain had no chance of winning. As long as Ash remained on its back… Gawain can’t use its breath attack, magic, teeth or claws. If it was so, then what was 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 couldn't even feel a single pain after such serious injuries. As if this body was 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 was the reason he was sent flying, it was a thin layer of magic.

“Reflecting type… Defense magic!”

This was 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 defence 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 lost consciousness… He felt that he heard Lucca calling after him.

===Part 4===
“This can'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 thought there was hope deep inside her heart. Since Ash was the famous ‘Silver Knight’. But the result was clear in a blink of an eye.

“Just what kind of rascal is it…”

Ash who was hit by the dragon’s tail pitifully, remained motionless even though he still remained conscious after he landed. Maybe he was dead. Under the moonlight, he could only be described as pitiful. Not only 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. Serves 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 honour 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 was unlucky there would be questions about why a staff member in charge of food service, was in the Norg Forest. Well, ''that'' would be a problem in the future but she just needed 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, was trying to carry Ash’s upper body. Didn't she know that simply moving the body of an injured person would 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 were only just fragments of memories. Even though he was seriously injured he still didn'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 was sitting beside the bed, right next to him 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 coloured 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 don’t even have a scratch on me right now though I was seriously injured !”

“You are not dreaming.”

“I-If I’m not dreaming… Then I’m in ‘that world’?"

Navi laughed because she probably thought that Ash panicking looked 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 rejected 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.." said Navi and continued.

"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 never told anyone about this.”

Although Ash didn't really know how Lucca was 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 didn'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 was… Ash's legs were slowly lifting from the ground. If this continued… Then he would 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 were 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 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 existed such a kiss. Navi was with her, rarely seen, blushing looks and crimson red watery iris.

“I hope 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 was… This place didn'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 hurt… This was not the time to worry about that. The moment he flipped over the blanket… He saw something unbelievable. Even after he immediately covered 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 were hidden… 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 wasn't a single piece of clothing left. It was probably that the clothes will interfere with his treatment. So the reason why he was naked could still be explained. But… Why would Lucca sleep on the same bed as him naked?

Ash looked all over the infirmary again. From the looks of the sky it should be morning right now. Not a sound could be heard from the lakeside. Surrounding the bed were silver flasks that looked like lamp stands.

“This is…?”

There were water coloured 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.” nodded Ash after it dawned on him.

Suddenly his chest started hurting.

“It hurts!"

Even when they have used healing magic, it seemed 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 was apparent, he would 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 grabbed and hugged him.

“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 was not the time for him to blush in the presence of a naked Yōsei body .

“S-Sorry...”

She let go of Ash gloomily. Ash, averting his eyes away from the white tender naked body, simply came out with the question...

“I-It’s alright, because I’m already healed, b-but could you please put on some clothes? Back to the topic… Why were you sleeping on the same bed with me?”

“…”

Lucca reached to pick up her one-piece pajama from the floor, while Ash made use of this time to cover his own naked body with the blanket. Lucca, who had gotten up to put on her pajama, sat down on a chair beside the bed and only then did she answer Ash's question.

“It was because your body’s temperature was dropping… So I’m trying to warm you up.

“I-Is that so. Thank you very much.”

After thanking her kindly… Ash remembered the incident that happened in the Dragon Workshop.

“That’s right…! It may be hard to believe, but… I was at the Dragon Workshop!”

“Dragon Workshop?”

Lucca was surprised.

“That’s it. The workshop where the dragons fabricate their creations. I had a conversation there with Gawain.”

“Huh…?”

Ash tried to explain to Lucca who was stunned.

===Part 7===
After Ash told her the truth, Lucca was in tears.

“Why… Gawain… Because of me… Just because to protect me… It would rather sacrifice its life...”

When he saw Lucca's shaking shoulders, as she was crying, Ash discovered something. He had thought of her as a girl without emotions. But that was not the truth. She was just someone who can’t express their emotions well. Her crying for Gawain was 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!” shouted Ash, although he knew this was a little cruel to her.

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 meant that he had lost consciousness since the first night of the training camp until just now. Although the training camp lasted for seven days, in reality there was 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 was 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 was… They must make sure of Gawain’s safety. If Navi's prediction was 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 seemed to be Eco. Her shiny hair swayed as she rushed up to the bed side. It was 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 alone were enough to give him a heartache. It was 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…'' feared Ash.

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 was usually 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 members, led by Rebecca, rushed into the infirmary as a crowd.

“You moron!”

Silvia unhappily scolded.

“Thanks to you for being an idiot I fully enjoyed 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 widened.

“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 desperately 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 sighed 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 have never agreed 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 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 was a mausoleum, all the bodies would be buried nicely. But, there seemed 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 seemed 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 was 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 thought that this was 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 should have been rocks originally, now had a rectangular hole. She immediately shone her bright dragon crystal powered torch. The hole was 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 was sure of was 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 was the size of a classroom at the academy. In this dug out space, bookshelves, tables, sofas and other furniture could 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 would 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 lit 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 was 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 emitted 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 worshiped Rosa Maria and made it as the country’s religion. The bible that recorded the teaching was usually called the Stella Biblia It recorded the life of Saint Rosa Maria and her pal Eco. The believers learned the religion’s teaching through the study of Rosa Maria and Eco’s way of life. The reason why Ash named his pal ‘Eco’ was because of he was influenced by this Stella Biblia.

By the way, although it was said that the ‘Stella Biblia’ had two versions which were the ‘Old Testament’ and ‘New Testament”, only the ‘New Testament’ was 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 feels 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 could 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 emitted an evil aura. Although his attire was of a mercenary, he gave out an extraordinary feel that made his clothes stand out. A girl with oat coloured skin was silently standing behind him. Her face looked handsome and cute but her eyes expressed strong determination. This small sized girl was wearing her tribal gear. The metal glove in her left hand attracted attention and there was a high possibility that there were 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 signified a fire element. Her only winning chance would be the element of surprise… But Milgauss, as if he 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 was 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 took 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, 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 was almost the same as Julius’s. Even after he put on the mask and changed his hair style… The manner in which he spoke 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 bent 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 for you… to come to Willingham Mausoleum-”

At the same time… Angela thought of the only possibility. The culprit guilty of using the Necromancia, to attack Ansarivan, was yet to be found out. But, according to the time when Milgauss appeared at Ansarivan, it was reasonable to suspect him.

''-The crucial material of creating the Necromancia were the bones of the dragons.''

If Milgauss was 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 was 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 was 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 also 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."

“…Understood.” replied Anya.

Even when she was still troubled by it, Milgauss had turned around facing another side.

“Milgauss-sama…?’

Anya was confused. She didn'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 was 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 hurt he was now able to 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 was the truth that he was still badly injured. Not only his head but his entire body was wrapped up into a mummy. Apart from going to the washroom he was forbidden 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 was ending, the preparations for the campfire were still going on. In about an hour, 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 was 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 was for Lucca to overcome her fear towards Gawain so the Astral, that connected both of them, may continue to flow.

“Zzz… Zzz…”

Eco was sleeping peacefully with her head on the bed. It was 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 swim wear, wore only a thin shirt covering her top which made her look quite sexy. Rebecca's swim wear was red in colour and since her shirt was unbuttoned, her deep cleavage, thin white waist and the bikini lines were totally visible.

“Rebecca-san…!”

Ash didn'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 was rare to see her panicking when she always did things so deliberately.

Eco seemed 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?” asked Ash, more than concerned.

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 overcame her fear of falling from Gawain’s back, Gawain would 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 is 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 declared as if wanting to change the atmosphere in the room:

“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 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.”

That was 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 cared and worried about Ash.

“Please, forgive me, Eco. I couldn't just kept on watching silently. That fella is not a weak dragon.”

“B-But…”

“If you worry about me Eco, then why won't you come with me?”

Eco immediately blushed like a wildfire.

“W-What… M-Me… I never worried about you!”

Ash was not bothered by Eco, who kept on denying herself while shaking her hands, and bowed down in front of Rebecca.

“I beg you… Rebecca.”

“Tsk… I don’t think I can say no. Or else, the closing ceremony will go on as usual but all the student council’s members will help in the search."

“No, that won’t work out, if Rebecca-san is absent everyone will be suspicious about it. For such a ceremony… I hope that every student will enjoy it to the fullest.”

“But-”

Just when Rebecca wanted to explain… The infirmary room’s door opened with a loud bang.

“If that’s the case… I’ll take over that job of yours. As a dragner; We must help those who are in trouble. - This is the Lautreamont's family’s rules!” declared Silvia.

===Part 16===
The search party that had been decided upon consisted of four members - Ash, Silvia, Eco and Lucca. Max and Jessica had agreed to go with them but were stopped by Rebecca. Because if too many of the student council members were absent, suspicion will still arise among the students. Lancelot was now giving four people a ride with Silvia in front holding the reins.

''-Behind princess…''

Ash, who was right behind Silvia, was in fear. Riding on the dragon while wearing the dragsuit designed for the palace and having her hair tied up nicely… Silvia’s charms as a dragner and a princess emerged. Although Ash had previously rode on Lancelot with Silvia, during the Necromancia's attack, he was totally immersed in the battle that time. He hadn'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 was because 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 seemed that she didn't like the riding gear. Lancelot, who was now carrying four people, gracefully flew up and towards the sky.

===Part 17===
Walking from the training camp’s location by the lake to the Willingham Mausoleum would take about an hour. But, using Lancelot, they had arrived 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.” said Silvia while controlling the reins.

Just as Silvia had said… There was an entrance like building in the middle of the hills. The area surrounding the structure was well shrouded by a thin layer of silky mist. There was an altar-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 didn't matter how you looked at it; This place was just not suitable for a lady to enter alone. It was reasonable for Rebecca to become worried. They also must not 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 was the Norg Forest and Allonnes Lakeside. Not to mention the buildings for the training camp. The campfire along the Allonnes Lakeside had been lit at and the closing ceremony had officially begun. On the ground was a coffin-like box. Milgauss opened the lid and took out a gigantic black sword.

This same gigantic sword was the tool used to summon the Necromancia. This was 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 were a total of nine big crystals and more than twenty smaller ones. If it was to be on sale it could surely fetch a 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 seemed that they were heading for the mausoleum’s entrance. In a few moments he lost sight of Lancelot.

“Let’s begin.” murmured Milgauss exiting from the cover of the rocks.

Grabbing the hilt of the gigantic sword he 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 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…” answered Lucca softly.

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 attacked…?”

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 wouldn't let go of his right arm, and Lucca tightly clung 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 didn'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 had mad eyes, sharp teeth and a strong rotten smell.

“A young dragon sized… Necromancia?”

Just as Ash was speaking his thoughts… The leader of the Necromancia's attacked. After its mouth opened, shining rays could be seen- ''Don!'' And a ball of flames came flying along the ground.

Lancelot made a scary roar and activated its defensive magic’s shield and immediately the breath attack was nullified. But there was no time to thank Lancelot. The group had already extended their many deep red coloured tentacles now and 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 struggled 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... is 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 seemed that apart from the main door… There were other places that the Necromancia 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 was 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 coloured 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 cozy atmosphere around the closing ceremony’s campfire. But the Necromancia attacking from all three routes, 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 Necromancia were approaching. There was only about a hundred meters in between them.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Rebecca naturally led the attack.

“Gáe Bolg!”

A bright light appeared after the spell had ended and a long spear appeared. Gáe Bolg's light pierced through the dark sky followed by an explosion. One by one the Strada type Necromancia fell to the ground.

“Attack!”

Rebecca commanded like a general.

''“Oooooo!”''

Upon receiving the order… All the students attacked at the same time.

===Part 22===
Dim white lights were emitted from Lancelot’s horn. This was a basic magic for the dragons. Thus, Ash and the rest didn't have to rely on the bright-dragon-crystal torch while traversing the cave. Lancelot was walking forward silently and steadily through the cave. Its usual earth shaking footsteps almost couldn't be felt. This had lessened the amount of burden that Ash’s, medically weak, body had to endure.

“Thank you. Princess.”

Silvia was surprised that Ash spoke behind her ears and her neck suddenly gave a jerk. Because her hair was tied up with a red ribbon her white neck was exposed.

“Why are you acting with such ambiguity! I had done nothing that deserves your thanks!”

“You were worried about me and purposely asked Lancelot to slow down. Right? So…”

“I-I had never thought that far! How can we move quickly in this narrow space!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Silvia was shy about it. For such a great dragon like Lancelot… To move quickly in such a narrow space is but child’s play.

“-Careful!”

Silvia suddenly shouted.

“Ksharrrr!”

Three Strada type Necromancia attacked from the front. They looked more like bats than dragons. Even though they were once noble dragons in their own time, after they became Necromancia, they were no different from any undistinguished animal. Ash tensed. The next second...

“Grooooo….!”

Lancelot gave an angry roar… Along the path, where the brilliant dragon stepped passed, there were only ashes left behind.

“Such excellence.”

Upon hearing Ash’s murmur… Silvia proudly lifted her chest.

“Hmph… During your time spent recovering… I had completed every single course in the Selective Training Camp. The days when I did battle stimulations with the president was every day… I felt like crying when I did that."

What Silvia said felt like a sad tone hidden in it. She seemed to have experienced something terrible. Ash who had only experienced the first day’s lake water bath was regretting. But… the main reason Silvia became strong was mainly because of Princess Veronica’s encouragement. If Veronica hadn't visited Ansarivan last week… Silvia may not have turned over a new leaf.

“Back to the topic. Why haven’t we seen Angela-sensei yet?... I'm hoping she wasn't attacked by the Necromancia.”

Silvia sighed while looking at the mausoleum’s map.

“We also haven’t found Gawain yet… Lucca. Have you felt anything?”

“I can’t… Because the Astral was not connected… My ‘Seikoku’ is not responding."

Since Lucca couldn't feel anything; They could only ransack the entire cave. Although it would 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 exploded. 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 thought 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 won't cause much burden to the body?”

“What did you say?”

“Please, I believe that you are able to make an Ark that is suitable for my current situation.”

“H-How… Could you speak with such confidence!”

“Do you even need to ask? Because you are 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 would be left in this world. When the spirit left the body the empty shell would be defenceless.

“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 like a log. Her ears hidden in her hairs were red. As if hot air was 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 lost her strength and laid her head on Ash’s right shoulder. Ash had felt that her spirit had left her body.

“Our hopes are on you… Eco.”

Ash's 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 didn't look like a place that had Necromancia. Lancelot increased the light intensity of its horns to brighten the extra space. Silvia was holding the reins with her right hand and was checking the map with her left.

“According to this map… This should be the centre of the mausoleum.”

“Centre...”

Ash was holding on to Eco who was still unconscious tightly while looking around. Silvia turned back and was secretly looking at Ash’s face.

“...”

Just to make a new Ark for Ash, Eco had went to the dragon workshop. Ash kept on holding to her petite body tightly for some time. Of course the reason Ash did so was to prevent Eco from falling off from Lancelot... But Silvia had been jumpy ever 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 hadn'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 colour 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 chosen to be a breeder... And yet a coward like you was chosen.”

“What... Did you say?”

The way Milgauss spoke was as if he knew a lot of her background information, 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 Milgauss, her heart tightened. Milgauss suddenly gave a smile. A smile of a father who cared about his child. A peaceful and caring smile.

“You have grown… Sylvie.”

“Wha-!”

Silvia felt a cold chill. No matter how wide the world was… The only ones who would call her by her pet name were her 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 the Lautreamont Knight Country… Killing a dragon was the utmost offense. Even if it was the prince of the Knight’s royal family… He would 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 that 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 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 didn't know what that meant. ''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 young dragons! Even after they became Necromancia… They are still no match for my Lancelot!”

Silvia declared but Milgauss was not even bothered by it.

“Is it so? I had sent most of them to the training campsite. Those Necromancia 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 was appearing from beneath.

“Roarrrrr...!”

A roar, as if it had arisen from hell, followed and their fight with Lancelot had started. Strong wings. Thick jaws and sharps horns… Apart from their dark skin… They had 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 loved 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.”

The mature version of Eco 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 was to search amongst all the various parts, or component blueprints, and identify those that suit Ash the most. She would be fine if it was just that, 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 an Ark that didn't overly burden the person wearing it. So this problem had nothing to do with time and she could 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, began 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 disappeared immediately and the left over were the important ones.

“W-What a fast searching speed...” murmured a stunned Eco…

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 is facing great danger.”

Navi was looking at the three dimensional screen projected in mid-air with a serious expression.

“Then be quick!” cried Eco.

“It seems that we must act quickly.”

Navi again placed her palm on Eco’s head and resumed the transfer.

===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 retreated 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!” disagreed Silvia stubbornly.

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 you should never have done that!”

“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 was easy to understand how she felt. Because Gawain had followed in Nuada's footsteps and had disappeared for Lucca's sake. Her emotional reaction was probably founded on this. Ash was worried about the current situation.

“Young dragon Nuada! I swear, in the name of the Lautreamont Royal Knight's Family, I will defeat you! This is the only thing that I can do for you!”

In reply, to Silvia’s sworn oath, Lancelot roared with a high pitch and immediately attacked Nuada. It stood on its hind legs and piled on attacks with its front. Upon seeing this Nuada also stood up and defended with its front legs. The two ferocious dragon began a battle between titans. All of a sudden… Nuada opened its lower jaw and blew out some black gas. It was almost a zero range, point blank, attack…

“Urgh…!”

Ash felt something was wrong and he hugged Eco tightly to protect her. He was angry at his useless self who couldn’t do anything.

Lancelot also remained strong. Just before Nuada’s breath attack exploded it triggered its own defensive magic.

-The sound of explosions kept shaking their ears.

The explosions were reflected back to Nuada, who was too close to the defensive magic, and immediately more explosions were heard. Lancelot's defensive magic was extremely sturdy and Ash only felt a slight vibration.

“Great…!”

Right until now… Ash had kept his eyes open. Half of Nuada’s head had disappeared and its grey coloured 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 coloured 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 defence 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 ‘defence’! 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 colourful lights.

These units were not normal shields. They all have the characteristics of a magic cannon.

The continuous lights that were attacking the Asia type Necromancias were like spider webs.

Not only that… There were some unexpected weird changes on the Necromancia that were directly struck by the lights. In a very short time, they had become stones .

Aegis was not releasing the usual degree of attacking type magic.

That was a high level magic that, upon coming into contact with the light, turned living things into stone . Even though it is from one of the dangerous areas of magic, named in the list of banned spells by the Knight Country, now is not the time to act like a good model citizen.

In just a few seconds time all seven Necromancias had turned into stones. Ash breathed a sigh relief and withdrew Aegis’s magic.

“Thank you, Eco.”

“N-Nothing… And I’m not even doing this for you.”

Eco turned her face aside but her face was definitely blushing. Ash gave a dry smile but now is still not the time to lower their guard.

Anyway... Silvia was piloting Lancelot with all her skill as they fought Nuada one on one. It was a situation where both of their front legs were interlocked somewhat like in a wrestling match. For attacks each of them use magic and tail swipes for advantage.

“Princess! I’ll be there to help you in a short moment!”

Ash who was prepared to help had met a blank wall.

“I don’t need any help! Go and capture Milgauss! Lancelot and I will calm down Nuada’s spirit.”

Silvia’s talk made Ash speechless.

Silvia was really angry. Even so… she still hasn’t lost her cool. She had sworn to defeat Nuada in the name of the Royal Knight’s Family and perhaps she truly thought that this is her mission.

“Roger that! Princess I’ll leave it in your hands!”

After Ash shouted back to Silvia he started running.

Right in front of him was Nuada’s tombstone. The tip of the slanting winged cross was pointing at the hole of the ceiling. Milgauss was still standing at the side of the hole looking down.

Ash jumped towards the sky along the side of the winged cross and stepped on the middle of it, gave himself a hop, landing on the tip of the wing and continued to jump up from there. With the aid of the Ark… Ash accomplished a jump that a normal human can’t do.

His body passed up and through the hole of the ceiling.

The misty air of the inner part of the cave had suddenly become replaced by the fresh and cool nighttime air.

However… The air is very cold and it doesn’t seem like summer anymore.

At the top of the nearby hills there are many stubs of bare rock.

Luckily, although the surroundings are dark, the Ark produces a dim light. Also, since he had been in the dark cave for a long time, his eyes are already used to the darkness.

“Milgauss!”

Ash started a fight with Milgauss. Although Eco was mad about it he still chose to use hand to hand combat which is the easiest.

He remembered the time when he met Milgauss for the first time in the forest.

Ash didn’t even have the ability to fight back during that time. Because, before he managed to land a hit on Milgauss, Ash was ambushed by Milgauss's underling. He was nearly killed by that girl.

But the situation right now is different. Ash was protected by Eco’s Ark and he had decided to KO his opponent in one hit.

But-

With only his left hand Milgauss, had blocked Ash’s right punch. He had focused all his strength in that punch too.

“How is this possible…?”

“Hmph. Is the strength of an Ark-Dragner just like this?”

“Urgh…”

He can’t move his right hand at all. It is similar to being clenched by a pair of pliers.

“This proves that you are just a fake.”

Milgauss tone was as cold as iron.

There was a gigantic sword in his right hand.

“Wha…!”

Ash widened his eyes in disbelief. It is as if the sword was made out of darkness. The large bright-dragon-crystals mounted on the hilt definitely proved it was not an ordinary sword.

“A fake like you has no right to touch me.”

-A flash from the black sword.

There is a sudden black gust. Ash, whose right hand is now handicapped, had nowhere to run to. He could only use the Manoplas on his left hand to protect himself.

As if a big hammer was hitting his head, the impact passed through his body in a short moment. The impact was so strong that even the Ark couldn’t endure it fully.

''“*Cough...*”''

“Where is your big talk just now?”

Milgauss let go of Ash’s right hand and then wielded the gigantic sword with both hands.

Then then lifted the sword brought it down all in one motion.

“Guak!”

The dark metal blade sunk into his abdomen. In that short moment… Ash felt that his waist was going to be chopped in two. Then the Ark made a ''‘click’'' sound. Even the Ark was groaning…

''“-Aegis!”''

Obviously, Milgauss was not an opponent for him to fight with in hand to hand combat. So Ash resummoned Aegis. The five units split out immediately and attacked Milgauss. As long as a light managed to hit him, he will then turn into a stone.

“Too slow!”

But Milgauss, with extraordinary nimble moves, avoided all the light rays. Then he swung the black sword at a lightning speed.

The units were being attacked and destroyed by a tornado-like slash. One after another they disappeared.

“What is he actually made of…!”

After Ash groaned, he was on his knees. The amount of magic collected in the Ark has a limit and Ash felt that the armour was slowly disappearing.

After Milgauss dealt with the five units his target had shifted once again to Ash. He gave Ash a kick without any delay. Even with the protection of the Ark, the impact was still transmitted into his abdomen.

''“*-Cough!*”''

Ash was out of breathe and was kicked around like a puppet. He finally landed hard, with his back facing the rocks.

Blood started flowing out from his mouth…

“Ku…”

Ash spit out saliva with blood in it and immediately hid behind the rock. The size of the rock is just enough to keep him hidden.

“Hmph. Are you trying to hide to drag out the time?”

Ash remained silent. He was sitting at the back of the rock waiting for a good moment. His body was in a mess and he probably had only one more chance…

''-Ssss, ssss…''

Milgauss was not buying any of his tricks and marched right towards Ash.

“Anything wrong right there? Can’t you use Aegis?”

''Milgauss was probably laughing his ass off right now''. Ash answered to himself while thinking of his disgusting face:

“Too bad. I’m out of magic…”

“Luck is not on your side today, shounen.”

Followed by a shout, there was an impact on the rock behind Ash.

===Part 28===
“Shoo. Shoo…!”

With the aid of the Ark, Ash easily jumped out through the ceiling’s hole but Eco wasn’t that lucky. She left Lancelot who was in a brutal fight with Nuada and climbed the huge winged cross.

“W-Wait for me…!”

Looking downwards, she saw Lucca was trying her best to cling onto the winged cross.

“Tsk… Just don’t blame me if you fall.”

Eco stepped on the wing of the winged cross without being bothered by Lucca. If she is not careful––she will definitely fall head down. Her current height was about ten meters. Although, she was frightened by it, she still needed to move forward.

Even though she felt guilty, about leaving Lucca, Eco still wanted to rush to Ash’s side as soon as possible.

The moment Eco saw the guy called Milgauss, she felt disgusted.

She remembered the nightmare that made her wet her bed.

Eco was attacked by a scary dragon in her dream.

It had nine eyes, numerous tentacles and was far scarier than a Necromancia…

The unbelievable thing was, the moment she saw Milgauss, the first thing that came into her mind was that dragon. It will be fine if she was just worrying too much… But just in case Eco’s instinct was right… Then Milgauss is a dangerous being. Eco couldn’t guarantee that the Ark has enough power to go against him.

Ash’s body condition also worried her.

Ash was, even in the beginning, a heavily injured patient. Logically speaking he should rest for a month, but…

But, even after she arrived at the location, apart from making the (mimic) Ark, there was nothing else she could do. It will not be surprising that she will be a burden.

Even so… Eco still couldn’t calm down her worrisome emotions and chose to climb the winged cross.

After some effort Eco finally arrived at the ceiling’s hole. She then took a look up, outside under the cloudy night sky.

“-Huh…?”

Eco had seen it all in that short moment.

Milgauss was holding a gigantic sword up high, looking like it had merged together with the night sky, and was going split open a rock.

Eco’s instinct told her that Ash was hiding behind the rock.

In an direct combat Ash was definitely out of his league. He was now going to be sliced open together with the rock by Milgauss…!

“Ash!”

Eco called out his name in desperation.

===Part 29===
''This blow will definitely crush the rock and Ash into pieces.'' Milgauss, who thought that he had a sure win, split open the rock in front of him.

The rock scattered into tiny fragments and powder.

A thick dust spread all over and blocked his sight.

After the explosion like power cooled down…

“What…?”

Milgauss remained in the exact posture of his finishing the blow.

After most of the dust falls, what was in front of Milgauss was not Ash’s body.

A unit in mid-air was pinning on to Milgauss.

A light was released from the front of the unit.

“Urgh…!”

Milgauss immediately lifted his left hand to block the light and also slashed the unit with his sword in his right hand. Although Aegis was reduced to light particles, and disappeared, its effect was still ongoing. Milgauss, who felt something was wrong, looked at his own body and saw his left arm starting to turn into stone.

“-Milgauss!”

Ash suddenly came down from the sky.

He had used the stone fragments as a screen and used an Aegis unit as a stepping stone to jump…

There was no longer an Ark on Ash. He probably used all his magic to summon the two units.

…Wait… He still has his Manoplas on his right hand!

“What an eyesore!”

Milgauss swung the black sword with only his right hand, but he had only manage to destroy the unit that Ash was stepping on.

“Uwooooo!”

Ash, who was experiencing free fall, uses the momentum and swings a punch with the Manoplas.

Milgauss immediately put up a defensive posture, with the huge sword above his head, but he still couldn’t avoid the powerful impact.

“Urgh…!’

Milgauss was knocked off together with his sword.

===Part 30===
“Huff, puff… How is this punch?”

At the same time Ash landed, his Manoplas disappeared. He next felt a terrible pain, as if his flesh was being sliced off.

But now is not the time for him to show his weak side. Even though Milgauss fell down hard on the ground, he still remains conscious. Ash could only try to bear with his pain.

“Hehe… Weren’t you out of magic?”

Milgauss, using the gigantic sword as a walking stick to support himself, slowly stood up. His left arm was hanging freely and lifelessly. It had been converted to stone.

“I didn’t say that I couldn’t summon Aegis again. It’s you who had been fooled. You had lost.”

“Hmph. I thought you were an idiot who only had strength. So it seems that you can actually do some scheming? But this can only be called as a trick and its still to much to call it a scheme."

After Milgauss made a haughty smile he seemed to remember something… He then pulled off his left arm and threw it to Ash.

“Wha…!”

Ash was staring at the left arm that landed on the ground.

“…Prosthetic arm?”

“That’s right. This is a creation of the Empire’s proud mechanical engineering.”

Ash was clenching his teeth. Ash is not only just a normal human without the protection of the Ark… He is also a seriously injured patient.

On the opposing side, Milgauss had only lost a prosthetic arm.

He was in a fix.

But- Just when Ash lost hope, there was a heroic voice coming from behind him.

“Listen carefully, Milgauss! I Silvia Lautreamont and Lancelot, have altogether defeated the young dragon Nuada’s spirit!”

Ash turned around to have a look and cheered happily.

“Princess! Lancelot!”

Nuada’s head was still in Lancelot’s mouth when it landed in between Ash and Milgauss. The only word that could describe its condition was 'terrible'. Its white skin had become dirty and full of blood.

Although injured… Lancelot’s blue eyes still looked as if they were full of spirit. Apart from Silvia, who was riding on its back, Eco and Lucca were also there.

Lancelot gave a menacing growl, while lowering down its neck, and placed Nuada’s head in front of Milgauss.

As if it wants Milgauss to apologize…

After Nuada’s severed head stared at Milgauss for a short moment, it turned into ashes. In the blink of an eye they were blown off by the nights breeze.

After Silvia witnessed the ashes being carried away by the wind she focused her attention back to Milgauss.

“…Princess?”

Ash knew something was wrong with her.

In this situation, winning was already in the grasp of their hand. No matter how strong Milgauss is, he will still face trouble when he is going against Silvia.

Logically speaking, Silvia should also know about this but she continued to stand still without any reasons.

“Hmph… It seems that I must change my opinion towards the Fourth Princess. I’ll withdraw for today.”

Milgauss placed the gigantic sword on his shoulder and slowly retreated.

“But the training campsite had already become a battle field. Just how many of them could survive? I would love to know…” Milgauss provoked.

After that, he jumped out into the night.

Surprisingly… He had jumped off the cliff.

Even so, from his previous battle experience with Milgauss, Ash knew that he is not just some average ordinary guy. He should have survived the fall.

And he will be back…

Just as if she had calculated the time, for Milgauss to withdraw, Silvia spoke:

“Thanks a lot, Lancelot. You may take your rest.”

Lancelot immediately bent its knees and lay down and, after closing its eyes, started to snore gently.

Silvia first climbed off its back then helped Eco and Lucca down from Lancelot.

“Is Lancelot alright?”

Ash worriedly looked at the sleeping Lancelot.

“Rest assured, it doesn’t have any vital injuries. It's just that… It has run out of magic. We only had the strength left to frighten Milgauss just now."

Ash only now knew why Silvia would let him escape. Because she didn’t even have the ability left to order him around. Back to the topic, if it was not because of Silvia’s and Lancelot’s intimidation, Ash would have died under Milgauss sword.

“And also, maybe… That guy…”

Silvia’s troubled looks made Ash curious.

“Princess?”

“N-Nothing. Just pretend that I didn’t say anything!”

Silvia, panicky, waved Ash off which in turns worried him further.

At this instant, Lucca said. “The training campsite is…”

Eco was also looking at the direction of the campsite dumbstruck.

“How come…!”

By following their sight… Ash also turned speechless.

Just like Milgauss declared, the training campsite had become a battlefield. The Necromancia's attack had yet to be stopped.

There were numerous sounds of explosions and the lights from the magic were flashing here and there. Although the campsite was safe, the dragon house beside was on fire and there were black smokes all over the night sky.

''Is everyone still alright? What about Rebecca? Max? And the rest? The instructors? The staffs for the training campsite? The girls who were in charge of the food service?''

“Damn… Even when we wanted to help them…”

Ash felt that he was filled with desperation.

''Apart from standing on the hills and looking from afar… We couldn’t even do a thing-''

As if to cheer him up, Lucca pulled Ash’s sleeves.

“I had a favor… To ask from you.”

As if she had made up her mind, Lucca was staring at Ash. Ash was troubled by it because her face was too close to his.

“W-What is it?”

Her Yōsei eyes were clear and shining even under the night sky.

Her eyes, full of determination, caused Ash to return her stare.

“Please… Come with me.”

“Why?”

“For Gawain and me… You had wagered your life for us. Just to let us feel the same like old times… If you are together with me… I think I could muster up some courage.”

“Could it be that you know a way to save everyone?”

Lucca extended her hand towards Ash.

“I want to save them… No, I must save them.”

Ash held Lucca’s palm as if he was going to be sucked in by the determination in her eyes.

Her body temperature was transmitted to Ash through her tiny leaf size like palm.

“Alright. I believe in you.”

After Ash answered with a steady tone Lucca smiled in embarrassment.

===Part 31===
Under the silent eyes of both Silvia and Eco Lucca and Ash move towards the edge of the cliff… Which was also the place where Milgauss jumped off from.

''Shoo… Shoo…'' The sounds of the winds pass through the darkness down below.

“Lucca…? What do you intend to do?”

Ash took a peek at Lucca’s face whilst being frightened.

“Jump down… From here.”

“J-Jump down-?”

Lucca didn’t answer. She just hurdled herself into Ash’s arms. Behind them there were immediate sounds of disparagement coming from both Silvia and Eco. There wasn't any time to worry about it.

Lucca placed her hands around Ash and hugged him as if she was hurting him on purpose. Although his organs were screaming in pain Ash still managed to bear with it. If he groaned in pain at this moment he will disappoint Lucca.

''Even so, what was Lucca actually thinking…?''

“We are going to jump.”

When her voice reaches Ash… He is already in mid-air.

Just like what she said, Lucca jumped down from the cliff.

And she was falling together with Ash-

The feeling of floating in mid-air only lasted for a second… Then both of them, gathering speed, fell in a straight line.

“Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Whilst listening to the sound of the winds buzzing past his ear, Ash was swallowed into the dark abyss. He thought that he heard Eco’s and Silvia’s screams, for a short moment from far above, but the voices were soon lost.

===Part 32===
They kept on falling.

Ash and Lucca were hugging each other when they fall towards the bottom of the cliff.

Thinking back carefully… The same thing happened when Eco was born. It seems that he was fated for such things…

Suddenly he seemed to hear Lucca’s voice, somewhat obscured by the sound of the wind.

She seemed to be speaking to herself while huddling to Ash.

“Sorry… Gawain. I’ll never again be afraid of you.”

''Aah… So that's it.''

Ash finally understands Lucca’s determination. Just like Gawain's overprotection of Lucca, which had caused itself cut off its Astral, this time Lucca wagered her own life.

After Lucca hugged Ash tighter, she shouted loudly:

“Please accept me once more, Gawain!”

It is hard to believe that such a loud voice would come from such a petite girl. Her voice sounded so strong that it was enough to pierce through the night.

There was a glaring light coming from Lucca suddenly.

The golden rays started to surround her body.

“Could this be… Astral?”

Ash, who was still falling with Lucca, was stunned. He couldn’t believe that he could see Astral with mortal eyes.

“Quick… Suck them in Gawain! Taken my Astral… No, absorb me! You are my… Pal!”

The shout that she put her full effort in was echoing in the night.

Just before the voice disappeared-

There was an explosion around the hills near Willing Mausoleum. Gawain emerged from it while releasing a magic that brightened the night sky.

Ash's gaze was attracted to Gawain’s movement. With the Astral flow resumed he had totally recovered.

After Gawain gave a roar, that a young dragon couldn’t possible make, it carefully catches both Lucca and Ash with its back.

===Part 33===
“I have… Another request.”

“I’ll do anything, as long as it is in my range of ability.”

Ash replied loudly. Their priority is to save the students and Ash is willing to suffer any kind of pain for it. Lucca worriedly stated her request in a low voice.

“…I’m going to challenge the Dragon Riding Dance. So… I hoped you could hold on to me tightly.”

“No problem!”

Ash recalled what Navi had said.

That is the Eckbald’s traditional dance.

Because of Lucca’s failure while practicing the dance it had caused her to have problems when facing Gawain.

Ash was unable to imagine what kind of a dance is that, but he was mentally prepared.

Now he could only place his hopes on Lucca’s Dragon Riding Dance.

Ash hugged Lucca’s waist tightly with both of his hands.

“Is this alright?”

“…Tighter.”

“How about this?”

“Tighter.”

“Urgh…What about this?”

Lucca answered by nodding.

Suddenly, there was a clear metallic sound coming from Lucca’s leg. Her dragsuit was modified with standard spurs. Gawain received the signal, lifted its head high, roared and then rushed up into the sky.

===Part 34===
The Ark had disappeared after Rebecca annihilate a group of Strada type Necromancia with her magic spear, Gáe Bolg.

Rebecca reluctantly sighed. Cú Chulainn's magic was almost used up and could no longer maintain its flight. It landed beside the lake.

“Should we end it here-”

The training campsite, that acted as a temporary battle headquarters, was still fine, but the dragon house nearby was being swallowed by a great fire.

Both parties were still fighting by the lakeside.

Just like Cú Chulainn all the dragons had already used up their magic and many of the were fighting using only hand to hand combat in its true and brutal form.

Because their opponents were Necromancias they had extraordinary endurance. Every time they receive a fatal blow, they still continue to regenerate and stand back up.

This batch of students had been performing well in this fight and they were worthy to become the selected participants of this training camp.

But there was no end to the amount of enemies. Everyone was wondering how many dragons had been buried at the mausaleum while reinforcements for the enemy just kept on arriving.

Apart from that, Rebecca could no longer summon the power of an Ark-Dragner. This fact alone had lowered the students fighting moral.

“We don’t have any more choices left. Should we just give up on the training campsite… And retreat?”

Rebecca made the bitter decision. Everyone would be devastated to lose such a great traditional facility. The training campsite, at Allonnes Lakeside, is also a place with long history.

But she must prioritize the students’ lives. If they give up right now they still have the chance to retreat in one piece. ''Once the retreating path had been blocked off by the Necromancias…'' Rebecca felt a cold chill just by thinking about it.

Currently: three students were heavily injured, fifteen were slightly injured and seven dragons were also injured. Although they had not yet suffered any fatalities yet… Still, if they continued to hold on… The situation will become irreversible.

Rebecca made up her mind. She took a deep breath and was about to order the students to retreat...

Just at this moment… A flying object shot passed in the sky.

From the bright silver track left behind by its excessive magic––that must be a Maestro.

“Is it Lancelot?”

No. The tracks left behind by in its dance were obviously not accomplished by any ordinary Maestro. It was as if it took the sky as its own drawing space and spread its wings boldly while flying…

“Could that be… Gawain?”

===Part 35===
''-What type of dragon riding is this? This is the first time in my whole life I saw Dragner control their dragon using this method…!''

Under the effect of the strong centrifugal force Ash nearly lost his consciousness.

He felt as if he was suffering from anemia. He was already facing trouble just holding on to Lucca.

If he had been careless even for one moment… He would most probably be facing a watery grave right now.

The Eckbald’s Dragon Riding Dance couldn’t be reasoned with human knowledge.

A sharp corner turn.

A strong centrifugal force that could even rattle the brain.

The ruffeling sounds of the wind rushing beside his ears.

Although he also faced groups of Strada type Necromancia along his way Gawain wasn't distracted by them, in the same way a lion is not bothered by ants, and it continued to fly on.

The Strada type Necromancia couldn’t keep up with Gawain’s speed and scattered like being blown off by a storm.

''-Is this really a… Dance?''

''If this is also considered a type of dance… How do we classify the flying method in the academy? This is totally at a different level! Obviously… There is too much of a difference…!''

''-Lucca is undoubtedly a genius!''

Ash finally knows the reason why Lucca was still selected for the training camp even after she had been absent for three months.

At the same time… He experienced personally the terrifying feeling of falling off in the midst of the Dragon Riding Dance. Just by thinking of it, Ash's entire body stiffened, knowing it was a miracle that Lucca's body remained intact even after she had fallen from Gawain during practice.

Also… Lucca was not flying blindly.

Ash realized that, onto the night sky, Gawain was tracing a magic pattern, all within a circle, with its tracks.

Not long after that, the huge magic diagram had been completed.

Thinking back… Navi had mentioned something before.

''-Once the Dragon riding dance had been completed, many effects of magic will be activated.''

Ash’s eyes widen.

“Isn’t this a ‘Seikoku’!”

That’s right! The image that Lucca and Gawain completed together is a ‘Seikoku’.

There was the head of a dragon in the middle of a circle and it looked unique. The diameter should be more than a hundred meters.

The moment the magic circle was completed Lucca shouted:

“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''!" <ref>From Sanskrit, means immortality</ref>

The magic circle started glowing, and then brightened into a glaring light.

===Part 36===
[[Image:SnRK V03 285.jpg|thumb|“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''."]]
All the students who were busy fighting by the lakeside were shocked by the sudden lights.

The huge magic circle- ‘Seikoku’ was hanging at a corner of the night sky.

“So you had succeeded… Lucca.”

Rebecca smiled in relief.

After being exposed to the strong glaring light the tough Necromancias had returned back to ashes one by one.

On the other hand, the students had recovered their energy as if they had been treated with healing magic.

Rebecca also felt that her body had become lighter and the gloom in her heart had departed. It's as if her desperation from before was only an illusion.

She now felt that she can still continue the battle.

Upon seeing all the Necromancia at the lakeside had been defeated, the student cheered in unison. Even the injured patients who were taking refuge back at the training campsite ran out to the lakeside and cheered.

Looking at Gawain, who was flying energetically through the night sky, Rebecca chuckled.

“Since the ancient times the Eckbalds, who were dragners, were called ‘Elfn Dancer’. The Lucca right now best fits the descriptions-”

"Elfn Dancer ~A.S.B 1365.6~"is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 4

2018-10-07T17:47:07Z

Foggy glasses: minor changes.. will continue with editing.

==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 couldn'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 while 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 had hoped that it would be a more peaceful game. But the swimsuits worn by both Eco and Silvia was deeply engraved in Ash’s mind. Eco was wearing a white swimsuit which brought out her cute self. Even though her body was still far from perfect… There were still guys who were sure to fall for her innocent look. Although her true ruthless attitude would be exposed as soon as she opened 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 wouldn't have been Silvia who chose a bikini exposing so much of her skin, but Cosette, the culprit who must have forced it on her. Ash quickly removed all these troubles from his mind and left his bed. The bedroom in the training camp was a twin sharing bedroom. Max was sleeping soundly at the bed beside. Eco was not in the room 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 defence 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 honour 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 coloured 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 coloured crystals on top of each of the flasks. Ash found out that they are those expensive Bright Dragon Crystals with healing effect.

It was said that the training given in the training camp was strict and thus the amount of injured students were high. These should be the medical supplies prepared by the academy.

“I see… Thanks to the healing magic. I can continue to live on.” Ash nodded after it dawned on him.

His chest suddenly hurts.

“It hurts!"

Even when they have used healing magic, it seems that, he won’t be able to fully recover in a short time. Ash unintentionally placed his hand on his head and found out that he also had bandages on his head too.

From his injuries, it is apparent, he will be treated as a patient for some time.

Just when Ash sighed, Lucca unwittingly made a small noise.

“Nn...”

Her pointy ears twitched cutely.

“Fuuwa!”

After a few moments Lucca, with a very sleepy face, slowly sat up. She generously showed her flat chest to Ash and dazed at him with her sleepy eyes… Until the moment when her vision was focused. She suddenly grabs and hugs Ash.

“Luckily… You were all right…!”

“Uwaaa!” Ash was thrown into a panic after being hugged by a lovely Yōsei girl.

To make it worse… They were on a bed… Naked.

“It huuuurts!”

The moment Lucca hugged him tightly his entire chest hurts. Now is not the time for him to blush in the presence of a naked Yōsei body .

“S-Sorry...”

She let go of Ash gloomily.

Ash, averting his eyes away from the white tender naked body, simply came out with the question...

“I-It’s alright, because I’m already healed, b-but could you please put on some clothes? Back to the topic… Why were you sleeping on the same bed with me?”

“…”

Lucca reached to pick up her one-piece pajama from the floor, while Ash made use of this time to cover his own naked body with the blanket.

Lucca, who had gotten up to put on her pajama, sat down on a chair beside the bed and only then did she answer Ash's question.

“It was because your body’s temperature was dropping… So I’m trying to warm you up.

“I-Is that so. Thank you very much.”

After thanking her kindly… Ash remembered the incident that happened in the Dragon Workshop.

“That’s right…! It may be hard to believe, but… I was at the Dragon Workshop!”

“Dragon Workshop?”

Lucca was surprised.

“That’s it. The workshop where the dragons fabricate their creations. I had a conversation there with Gawain.”

“Huh…?”

Ash tried to explain to Lucca who was stunned.

===Part 7===
After Ash told her the truth, Lucca was in tears.

“Why… Gawain… Because of me… Just because to protect me… It would rather sacrifice its life...”

When he saw Lucca’s shaking shoulders, as she was crying, Ash discovered something.

He had thought of her as a girl without emotions. But that's not the truth. She is just someone who can’t express her emotions well. Her crying for Gawain is the only proof needed.

Thinking back carefully. It was the same during that time.

In the forest during the full moon… Lucca also cried. Ash decision to challenge Gawain was also because of his sympathy for her-

“That’s right. Gawain didn’t allow you to ride on its back because it was worried about you. If the rider was to be afraid of its pal… Then his life will be threatened…”

“It’s… All because of me…”

“Summon your courage!” Although he knows this is a little cruel to her, Ash still shouts it.

Because Navi had already notified him in the Dragon Workshop that Gawain’s life has…

“Please calm down and hear me out. Gawain had only a few more days to live… According to the information that I had received from the Dragon Workshop it can only live for a mere five more days.”

Upon hearing that… Lucca was visibly shaken.

“Before that… How many days have I been sleeping?”

After Ash had asked… Lucca answered by mumbling with her face looking more pale than ever.

“Today is… The sixth day.”

“Huh?”

Ash was taken aback. This means that he had lost consciousness since the first night of the training camp until just now.

Although the training camp lasts for seven days, in reality, there is nothing wrong about taking the sixth day as the last. Because on the seventh day they would only be returning to Ansarivan- just like that.

Also… The main event of the sixth day of the training camp would be cleaning the campsite. The closing ceremony would be held that evening.

In another words… The Selective Training Camp is as good as over.

But Ash didn’t think that he had wasted his time here. The truth wouldn't have been revealed if he had not challenged Gawain.

The thing is… They must make sure of Gawain’s safety. If Navi's prediction is correct… Gawain will die any moment.

“Lucca! Look for Gawain immediately!”

“But… I can’t leave you.”

“I’m already alright. Right now, you must only think about Gawain!”

“…Understood.”

Lucca rubbed off her tears and lifted her head.

Her gaze was full of determination and it moved his heart.

After Ash had nodded to her… Lucca rushed out from the infirmary.

Navi had made a ‘five days’ death declaration.

But Ash had slept for five days…

Just when Ash was worried and held his fist up without being interfered by the pain-

“Ash!”

The owner of the voice who rushed into the room seems to be Eco. Her shiny hair sways as she rushed up to the bed side.

It's likely that Ash was thinking too much when he thought Eco looked tired. Just maybe she hadn’t slept well and her red swollen eyes are alone enough to give him a heartache. It's possibly because she cried a lot after the incident. Ash thought that his heart was going to break.

''-I will not be able to escape from a punch or two from her…'' Ash fears rightly.

Ash was prepared to be hit, but surprisingly Eco was only cuddling in front of the blanket.

“Baka, baka, baka! <ref>Moron</ref> I thought that… Thought that you were going to die! What were you doing? You are owned by me! Don't you know that…!”

Eco hid her face in the blanket and started sobbing.

“Sorry. Eco.”

Ash was petting Eco’s head while bearing with the pain.

Thinking back carefully… The morning alarm must not have rung yet. But Eco, who usually was a sleep-in, had rushed here early in the morning.

''Although she refuses to admit it. She is evidently still my pal…'' Ash was happy down to the depths of his heart.

But the peaceful moment only lasted for a while.

“It is good to hear that you had regained consciousness.”

The student council’s members, led by Rebecca, rushed into the infirmary as a crowd.

“You moron!”

Silvia unhappily scolded.

“Thanks to you for being an idiot I can fully enjoy a twin-sharing bedroom by myself.”

Max was insulting him while adjusting his spectacles on his nose.

“…”

Only Jessica remained troubled and moved her suprisingly sensitive nose around Ash’s blanket. Logically speaking… She should be the first person to hug Ash…

“…What are you doing?”

Upon asking that… Jessica sharply glared at him.

“What is this about…! Why is the blanket full of Lucca-san’s smell! Could it be that Ash-sama… Likes those types of young girls?”

“No… It's not like that!”

Ash became nervous, since it was true that Lucca was sleeping with him, which made it all that much harder to give an explanation.

“What did you say!”

Eco was the first to react after hearing Jessica’s words. It was as if she had transformed into another person. She sniffed the blanket with a cold expression and her eyes widen.

“It's true! This smell of herbal medicine… Is from that Eckbald!”

“C-Calm down. I beg you to calm down first Eco.”

Ash was under great pressure. Although he desperatly wanted to escape through the window he was still stark naked. Once he climbed out from the window his naked body will be exposed. This was a situation where he couldn’t do what he wanted.

“Hold on… Are you insane? Even I, as your master, was not allowed to enter and had to give up on visiting you. But you…”

“I-Is that so?” Ash had wondered about that.

Judging from what she had said… Lucca seemed to have entered the infirmary without permission.

“Ash. You rascal… There are so many to choose from and yet you choose a young junior and lured her into your bed…? Yet why aren't you concerned about the condition of your own health and how we worried about you…”

Silvia’s body was trembling.

“That’s not it… I didn’t lure anyone into my bed! Don’t go on spouting nonsense!”

Too bad for him, but, Silvia didn’t have any intention of listening.

“An enemy of women must face the judgment of the hammer of death!”

Aahh, it seems, that inevitably, I’m going to face some pain… Ash felt like crying.

“Ho-Hold on! I’m still a patient… No?”

But Silvia had long ago clenched her fist tightly and was not at all bothered by Ash’s begging.

Eco too also angrily lifted her right foot.

“This is Lautreamont’s family's rules!”

“I’m gonna trample you!”

===Part 8===

“Huu… In the end, there isn’t a single useful result that was obtained.”

On her right hand was a bright dragon crystal powered torch and on her left’s was a map of the Willingham Mausoleum. Angela sigh in disappointment.

Angela alone had gone through the journey of the exploration of the Willingham Mausoleum.

Although basically she came here as a campsite instructor… Her original motive was still the Willingham Mausoleum. If not because of this… She would never have agree to go to the Selective Training Camp full of sweat and smells.

This was the sixth day she was investigating the Willingham Mausoleum. Since, the first day she arrived at Allonnes Lakeside, she had immediately came here.

“Although the historical value is hard to predict… This is really a letdown.”

Willingham Mausoleum was a grave that was built from a natural cave. The atmosphere was peaceful inside the Willingham Mausoleum which was due to its two thousand years of history.

Angela found quite a number of dragon fossils. She had originally thought that since this is a mausoleum, all the bodies will be buried nicely. But, there seems to be exception.

“…Huh?”

Just when Angela was marching towards the exit. -She suddenly stood still.

In front of her was a strange fork road. Angela, who was always calm, had just turned pale.

“Could it be…”

Angela had inspected the map for one more time. This was a totally different place compared to the intended route. It seems that she was lost because of her carelessness. Her deduction skills had dropped probably because of her lack of sleep.

''No matter what, if I don’t find a way out… I’m sure to meet the same fate as these dragons.'' Angela feared.

“Since I had been in love with the dragons for a long time… It's not a bad idea to be buried with them... Like hell I would!”

Angela, while commenting to herself, was thinking about her troubles.

Basically. All the instructors and students knew she is at Willingham Mausoleum. If she returned late… They will send someone to search for her.

“I’m really… How could I be this unlucky!”

After putting down her luggage Angela rested with her back facing the rocks. She thinks that this is not a time for her to be running around in panic.

''-Click.''

In a few moments… She heard voices that could never be found in nature.

“…?"

At the same time, while making a ‘Ssssssss’ sound, the wall behind Angela moved.

“T-This is?"

Angela immediately turned her head around. The place where there originally should have been rocks now has a rectangular hole. She immediately shine the hole with her bright dragon crystal powered torch.

The hole is suspected to be a secret passage where the end couldn't even be seen.

“Could it be that… This mechanism was designed by the dragons?"

Although the details weren't clear… What she can be sure of is that she accidentally set off the trigger. But under the eyes of a commoner this passage would just seem like a normal natural cave…

After wiping of the dust off her spectacles Angela shouted in joy.

“Who would know that such mechanisms exist. This is the century’s biggest discovery!”

Angela had forgotten that she was in a fix and lifted her bright dragon crystal powered torch while stepping into the secret passage.

===Part 9===
“This is just too good to be true…!”

At the end of the secret passage Angela gave another cheer.

There was a space here that had nothing to do with the mausoleum at all.

It is the size of a classroom at the academy. In this dug out space, bookshelves, tables, sofas and other furniture can be seen.

There were carpets of different designs on the floor that gave it an elegant atmosphere.

After the torch was shone on the ceiling, Angela was stunned.

“That’s…”

On the ceiling was an extravagant chandelier. But it still seemed logical since it had bright-dragon-crystal in it. If any grave robbers had found it, they will be sure to move it away immediately.

Angela looked upwards and sang a chant. What she was singing was a basic level oracle and the light immediately lightens up. A light far stronger than the torch had lit the room and thus Angela was able to explore every single corner.

“This carpet, without a doubt, it is a dragon’s creation. This design was once very popular among the dragons of about a thousand years ago. The rest of the furniture also has the dragons’ style…”

The dragons, who were at the same time artisans, have special taste for beauty. It is totally different from humans’ design.

“What is the reason for the dragons to build this room…?”

Angela suddenly looked at the table.

There was a book that was an inch thick lying on the antique table. The book itself emits a serious feeling that made it seem like it was the owner of this room.

“Is it… To pass this book to the humans…?’

Angela approached the table and took the book. The over luxurious looks gave a deep impression and the weight is extremely heavy, just like an encyclopedia.

“Could…. This be the ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’…?”

Angela’s spectacles nearly slide off her nose.

The Chevron Kingdom and the Knight Country worships Rosa Maria and made it as the country’s religion. The bible that records the teaching is usually called the Stella Biblia

The Stella Biblia records about the life of Saint Rosa Maria and her pal Eco. The believers learn the religion’s teaching through the study of Rosa Maria and Eco’s way of life. The reason why Ash named his pal ‘Eco’ is because of he was influenced by this Stella Biblia.

By the way, although it was said that the ‘Stella Biblia’ have two versions which are the ‘Old Testament’ and ‘New Testament”, but only the ‘New Testament’ is recognized by the headquarters for the Rosa Maria religion's - Holy Espada Agency. Just not too long ago even the Old Testament was banned…

Angela happily flipped over the pages and read out a few sentences.

“…After the wise dragon Inbroke, two major bloodlines were formed. They are the Avalon’s holy dragons’ emperor’s family and the Nehalennia’s dark dragons’ king’s family. An endless war started from these two families-.”

Angela was confused.

“T-This… did this happen during the ancient kingdom…? But it felt like a legend after reading…”

As if it was to help Angela to get rid of her trouble, a sound of another person was heard in the room.

“No, that is exactly the truth.”

“-!”

Angela immediately hid the Old Testament of the Stella Biblia in between her arms and coldly glared at the intruder.

“A grave robber? No… You don’t look like that kind of person.”

“In the ancient times… When the Zono Ton Enlightenment had started in this Ark Strada Continent… The two families who inherited the wise dragon Inbroke’s bloodline had started the bloody war."

A tall and skinny guy said this story.

The only thing that can be clearly seen was his silver mask. His expression was hard to be judged because his eyes were covered. There were a few strands of red hairs mixing in with the rest of his silvery hair and he emits an evil aura.

Although, his attire is of a mercenary, he gave out an extraordinary feel that made his clothes stand out.

An oat coloured skin girl was silently standing behind him. Her face looks handsome and cute but her eyes express strong determination.

This small sized girl was wearing her tribal gear. The metal glove in her left hand attracts attention and there is a high possibility that there are weapons in it.

“Both of you are…!”

Angela remembered.

The two suspicious people that Ash met in the forest about two months ago.

Angela had also gone through the reports that the student council sorted. According to it… The girl called the guy ‘Milgauss-sama’.

“Why would both of you come to these ruins?”

Angela acted calm and asked them coolly.

On her right hand was a bright-dragon-crystal made ring. The red crystal signifies a fire element.

Her only winning chance will be the element of surprise…

But Milgauss, as if he had already knew what she was thinking, said:

“You wanted to use the red-flame dragon’s-breath as an attack. No?”

Angela gasped after her intention of using the oracle had been found out.

“I’ll advise you for not doing that. Those puny flames, that can only kill dragonflies, can hurt me? To dragons, those flames were nothing. Am I wrong Ann?”
[[Image:SnRK V03 201.jpg|thumb|“You wanted to use the red flame dragon’s breath as an attack. No?”]]

“What…!”

Angela’s eyes widen. If that guy addressed her as ‘Professor Cornwell’ she wouldn’t even be surprised. Since she is one of the top researchers for the dragons it would be normal if people of the Zepharos Empire recognized her.

But Milgauss addressed her as ‘Ann’.

“Y-You… Could you be…!”

In the mean time, she felt something was off. Until the moment her feeling turned into reality, the ‘Old Testament of the Stella Biblia’ had fallen on to the ground.

Angela was no stranger to Milgauss's elegant voice.

Logically speaking… This is their first meeting but Angela recognized that voice.

Once she realized the truth, in her eyes, Milgauss's standing posture and his hidden smile overlapped with ‘the person’ she recognized.

''-I knew this guy! But he… Shouldn't even be living…''

Angela’s lips trembled while looking at Milgauss’s face. ''How could this be''… Angela couldn’t help but keep on thinking about the face underneath the mask.

===Part 10===
It was twelve years before.

The young genius girl - Angela Cornwell, who was thirteen at that time, had graduated from the University of Fontaine City and wanted to move overseas for further studies.

The location was the highest academy institution in Chevron Kingdom, University of Feachador. The education fees were fully covered by the Knight’s royal family.

It was in the university’s research lab that Angela met the ‘Ouji-sama’<ref>Prince</ref>

That time should be around mid-summer. In the month of Leo.

That day was the University of Feachador’s anniversary and the whole place was crowded.

But only Angela alone was in the research lab still doing research about dragons. The lecturers and the students had gone out to enjoy the celebration.

But someone appeared in front Angela who was in the middle of her research. That person was Julius.

Julius Lautreamont made use of the Ansarivan’s Dragon Riding Academy’s summer break opportunity to visit the Chevron Kingdom. Apart from vacation he also bears the job of a diplomat.

“Haha. I thought I saw an angel! Are you the daughter of a lecturer or a sister of a student?”

“I-I, myself, am a student!”

According to Julius… He ran into the university to escape from some troublesome fans. In the end… He had gotten lost.

He had a handsome look about him and yet also a, somewhat, mischievous behavior.

Julius was only sixteen during that time and he was already a dragner.

Not only he was strong and smart… He was also an attractive boy. The meeting she had with Julius had left a deep impression in her mind.

Julius smile had melted, the lonely genius, Angela’s heart.-

===Part 11===
The feeling that Milgauss gave out is almost the same as Julius’s. Even after he put on the mask and changed his hair style… The manner in which he speaks was still the same as years before.

“H-How… Is this possible…!”

Angela was stunned.

Milgauss had given orders to the girl behind him coldly.

“Do it!”

The girl immediately adjusted the weapon in her left hand’s metal glove- It is a leather whip that the mountains tribes love to use.

“Haa!”

The whip bends according to the girls shout.

The whip swept past Angela with a ‘sss’ and she bend her knees to avoid. Her spectacles were hit and fell to the ground.

“Urgh…”

Even though the girl attacked from the front… Angela’s back was in pain. It seems that the whip easily avoided Angela’s field of vision and attacked from the back.

“B-Both of you… What is the reason you… Come to Willingham Mausoleum-”

At the same time… Angela thought of the only possibility.

The culprit guilty of using the Necromancia, to attack Ansarivan, has yet to be found out.

But, according to the time when Milgauss appeared at Ansarivan, it is reasonable to suspect him.

''-The crucial material of creating the Necromancia are the bones of the dragons.''

If Milgauss is the culprit for releasing the Necromancia, then shouldn’t the Willingham Mausoleum become very dangerous? Since there were many bones buried underground…!

“I beg you… Immediately... Leave this place-”

Angela with a trembling voice said towards the students who were at the lakeside preparing for the closing ceremony.

Needless to say… No one is able to receive her warning-

The girl knocked her with a hatchet and she lost consciousness.

===Part 12===
After making sure that Angela had fainted… Anya turned around and looked at Milgauss.

“About this woman… How are we gonna deal with her? She is still a good scholar; it is a pity for us to kill her…”

Milgauss replied coldly.

“I don’t need anyone like her. Just end her lif- Guuk!”

The next moment, Milgauss looked strange. He was suddenly breathing heavily in pain and struggling while kneeling down on the floor.

“Guu… This damn person! Such determination… Must he interfere with me-!”

Milgauss was muttering something weird.

“M-Milgauss-sama!”

Anya was nervous when she ran to Milgauss. This was the first time she saw Milgauss suffer to this extend. She had never heard before that Milgauss had any ailment disease…

“…Fear not. I’m absolutely alright.”

Milgauss suddenly stood up which made the pain before look like a show. The feeling though is like after a demon being excoriated.

“Err… Milgauss-sama? Are you really alright? Anything wrong with your-“

“I’m very fine. The main point is-“

Milgauss was looking at the floor. Angela was still unconscious. Milgauss who addressed her as ‘Ann’. The sound of it made it seem like he was calling a close friend or a lover…

"Let’s not bother about this woman. This is a Mausoleum for the dragons. The dead body of a human will only dirty this place."

“…Understoood.”

Until Anya replied, even when she was still troubled by it, Milgauss had turned around facing another side.

“Milgauss-sama…?’

Anya was confused.

She doesn’t understand what was happening around Milgauss.

Just before he turned strange, Milgauss wanted to kill Angela… ''But why did he change his mind?''

Milgauss continued to give orders to Anya who was still letting her thoughts wonder.

“I’ll activate the Necromancia in a few moments. Be prepared to head back to Ansarivan.”

“Understood.”

Although she was still worried, about Milgauss's physical condition, Anya still answered immediately.

The time for the battle is about to begin.

===Part 13===
In the evening… Ash had nothing to do.

Under the assistance of the healing magic his injuries were now much better. Although his body still hurts he can now walk on his own. Also… He was now able to wear a patients’ gown. Anyway. It was embarrassing to remain naked.

Having said that. It is the truth that he was still badly injured.

Not only his head but his entire body warped up into a mummy. Apart from going to the washroom he was forbiden from going anywhere let alone outside.

Ash was staring at the scenery outside the window for quite some time.

“Is the closing ceremony starting…?” He wondered.

At the lakeside, as dusk is now ending, the preparations for the campfire are still going on. In about an hours time those logs, that were stacked up high, will be burned.

Rebecca, Silvia, Jessica, Cosette, Max… These friends, who had visited him a few times in the morning, were hardly seen just before and during the sunset. This is also because they were busy preparing for the ceremony.

On the other hand… Lucca should be meeting with Gawain deep in the Norg Forest.

Three hours ago, she purposely came back and told Ash that Gawain was still living. After knowing that Gawain was still breathing Ash breathed a sigh of relieve.

The next thing to do is for Lucca to overcome her fear towards Gawain so the Astral, that connects both of them, may continue to flow.

“Zzz… Zzz…”

Eco was sleeping peacefully with her head on the bed. It is probable that she didn’t get enough sleep while Ash was in a comma.

“I’m entering. Ash!”

At this moment Rebecca’s voice and a knock on the door sounded at the same time. Before Ash could reply she had already walked into the room.

Rebecca, who was in her swimming wear, wore only a thin shirt covering her top which made her look quite sexy.

Rebecca’s swimming wear was red in colour. Since the shirt was unbuttoned, her deep cleavage, thin white waist and the bikini lines can totally be seen.

“Rebecca-san…!”

Ash doesn’t know where to look at.

“Do you feel better now?”

After looking at Eco with her gentle eyes, she looked at Ash with a serious expression.

“I’m fine. I can even go to the toilet on my own!”

“Good. Back to the main point… I’m worried about something.”

“What’s it?”

“Angela-sensei hasn't yet returned from the ruins even after I had advised her that she must attend the closing ceremony...”

Ash was stunned. He had heard about Angela going to Willingham Mausoleum on the first evening of the training camp. In another words… Angela didn’t know that Ash was badly injured.

“According to her standard behavior… Angela must be too immersed in her explorations. No?”

Ash gave an arbitrary smile but Rebecca was still troubled by it.

“It is alright if it is just like that… I’m worried that she had accidentally met with a grave robber.”

-Bang! Just as Rebecca was talking.

The door suddenly opened and Lucca entered from outside. Because she was running there was a lot of sweat which was probably the cause for her summer uniform to be wet.

It is rare to see her panicking when she always does things so deliberately.

Eco seems to have been woken by the all the commotion. “Nyuu.“ She made a sleepy sound and she slowly sat up rubbing her eyes while looking around.

“What happened?” Ash, more than concerned, asked.

Lucca answered slowly since she was breathing heavily:

“That… kid… Gawain…!”

===Part 14===
Lucca told the whole story slowly.

''-Gawain is dead?''

Ash was thinking about the worst outcome but the truth was not like what he had expected.

Gawain seemed to hide itself when Lucca was not around.

Lucca had been together with Gawain for the entire morning.

As long as she overcomes her fear of falling from Gawain’s back, Gawain will once again accept her. Thus their Astral will once again be connected and Gawain won’t die.

Lucca was facing Gawain with only this thought- But not only did Gawain not accept Lucca it had also hidden itself.

Rebecca gently hugged Lucca who was crying.

“Gawain will never discard you. It probably felt that it was finally going to die and didn’t want you to suffer anymore by seeing its dying expression. So…”

After hearing Rebecca’s assumption, Ash also agreed with it, but Lucca continued...

“We will look for Gawain immediately! Didn’t we already find out the reason why the astral couldn’t connect? With a little more effort… We will be able to save Gawain! But it had already given up… How can we let this happen!”

Rebecca, still willing to help, nodded in agreement.

“That’s right… I also think so. We need not follow exactly what Gawain wants. The problem is… Where is it hiding right now…”

“T-That…”

Lucca provided information to Rebecca who was thinking deeply. She had rubbed off her tears and set herself with a determined look.

“I think… It must have gone into Willing Mausoleum. That is a grave specially for young dragons… Gawain was still at its juvenile age.”

Rebecca nodded.

“Hmm.. That’s possible. Have you ever before heard the story of ‘The dragon of Willingham’?”

“I had heard of it before. My mom always told me this story when I was younger.”

===Part 15===
-It was a disaster that happened to a young dragon.

When Nuada was young… it still managed to become a maestro. But it could not bear to see its young master suffering in her illness so it cut off its Astral. In the end… Nuada had become very weak.

But Nuada swore never to let its master see its dying moment so it left quietly. Later, although the girl recovered, Nuada had died in Willingham Mausoleum alone after some time.

When Ash heard this story from his mother, when he was still a child, he cried.

Rebecca as if wanted to change the atmosphere in the room declared:

“I’ll never let Gawain meet the same fate as Nuada. So… The closing ceremony will be temporally canceled. I’ll ask all the students to look for Gawain. It will be even better if we could find Angela-sensei at the same time.”

“No! please hold on.”

Ash was against this proposal.

“Let the students enjoy the closing ceremony. I had been unconscious for these few days, so I don’t know what kind of training that they had been through, but everyone must have placed their best effort into it. The point for organizing the closing ceremony… Ain’t it to congratulate those students who completed the training camp?”

“You are right, but, what were you planning? Could it be…”

Ash smiled.

“That’s right. I’ll be responsible for the search. Rest assure, thanks to the healing magic, I’m almost fully recovered.”

This is actually a lie. Every time Ash moved he felt pain in both his organs and joints. Even so… He still wouldn’t give up.

Upon hearing this Eco, who was silent the whole time, became angry.

“Are you kidding! Or you must be an idiot! It is clear that your body is still weak… And yet you want to look for that weak dragon!”

Ash places his hand on Eco’s head to calm her down. Even though she was angry, it was still because that she cares and worries about Ash.

“Please, forgive me, Eco. I couldn’t just kept on watching silently. That fella is not a weak dragon.”

“B-But…”

“If you worry about me Eco, then why won't you come with me?”

Eco immediately blushed like a wildfire.

“W-What… M-Me… I never worried about you!”

Ash was not bothered by Eco, who kept on denying herself while shaking her hands, and bowed down in front of Rebecca.

“I beg you… Rebecca.”

“Tsk… I don’t think I can say no. Or else, the closing ceremony will go on as usual but all the student council’s members will help in the search."

“No, that won’t work out, if Rebecca-san is absent everyone will be suspicious about it. For such a ceremony… I hope that every student will enjoy it to the fullest.”

“But-”

Just when Rebecca wanted to explain… The infirmary room’s door opened with a loud bang.

“If that’s the case… I’ll take over that job of yours. As a dragner; We must help those who are in trouble. - This is the Lautreamont’s family’s rules!”

The person who said this was Silvia.

===Part 16===
The search party that had been decided upon consisted of four members which were Ash, Silvia, Eco and Lucca.

Max and Jessica had agreed to go with them but were stopped by Rebecca. Because if too many of the student council members were absent, suspicion will still arise among the students.

Lancelot was now giving four people a ride with Silvia in front holding the reins.

''-Behind princess…''

Ash, who was right behind Silvia, was in fear.

Riding on the dragon while wearing the dragsuit designed for the palace and having her hair tied up nicely… Silvia’s charms as a dragner and a princess emerged.

Although Ash had previously rode on Lancelot with Silvia, during the Necromancia’s attack, he was totally immersed in the battle that time. He didn’t noticed Silvia’s appeal as the opposite sex.

“What are you doing? If you don’t hold on tightly… You’ll fall.”

After being scolded by Silvia ash made up his mind and stretched out his arms. When his arms finally surrounded Silvia’s waist… He was surprised that her abdomen was so thin and fragile.

The third person was Eco. She held on to Ash’s waist gently which probably is because that she was worrying about Ash’s injuries.

“You must also hold on tightly.”

When Ash turned his head around, Eco blushed.

“If I use my true strength… Then your body will be squashed!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Eco cared about Ash’s condition, in her own way, which made his happiness run deep down to the bottom of his heart.

The last person to ride the dragon was Lucca. She was not sitting on the saddle but the end of the tail.

“Hey, Lucca. Are you alright… Sitting like that?”

Silvia asked in surprised.

“It’s alright.”

Lucca answered lightly. It seems that she doesn’t like the riding gear.

Lancelot, who was now carrying four people, gracefully flew up and towards the sky.

===Part 17===
Walking from the traing camp’s location, by the lake, to the Willingham Mausoleum would take about an hour. But, using Lancelot, they arrive in an instant.

Ash thought about Gawain while riding on Lancelot’s back...

''-Tsk… Damn that Gawain… Playing hide and seek when it knew it was dying? What is it trying to act cool for… I’ll never allow it to follow Nuada’s footsteps…!''

Not much later. A stretch of high grounds appeared.

“That should be the entrance to Willingham Mausoleum.”

Silvia said while controlling the reins.

Just as Silvia had said… There was an entrance like building at the middle of the hills. The area surrounding the structure was well shrouded by a thin layer of silky mist. There was an alter-like entrance adorned with shining bright-dragon-crystal powered lights that illuminated the surrounding area.

''Did Angela walk into that type of place alone…?'' Ash felt a cold chill just by thinking about it. It doesn’t matter how you look at it; This place is just not suitable for a lady to enter into alone. It's reasonable for Rebecca to become worried. They also mustn’t ignore the possibility she was attacked by some grave robbers…

Just like sweeping away Ash’s thoughts. Silvia shouted:

“Alright, get ready for landing!”

Lancelot gave a brave roar and started the high speed landing maneuver.

===Part 18===
Milgauss was standing at the top of the hill looking at the world below.

Before his eyes was the entrance to Willingham Mausoleum.

Looking at the landscape further out; There is the Norg Forest and Allonnes Lakeside. Not to mention the buildings for the training camp.

The campfire along the Allonnes Lakeside had been lit at and the closing ceremony had officially begun.

On the ground was a coffin-like box. Milgauss opened the lid and took out a gigantic black sword.

This same gigantic sword is the tool used to summon the Necromancia.

This is the great result of the Empires’ proud mechanical engineering and the development of the dragons. - The remnant of the Magic Techniques. <ref>魔導工学 Magic based mechanics</ref>

After Milgauss had returned to his country… He had improvised this device.

This gigantic sword, that once looked like a piece of art work, had now become more dangerous and mechanized.

The bright dragon crystals on the hilt had increased tremendously. There are a total of nine big crystals and more than twenty smaller ones. If it was to be for sale it could surely fetch large amount of money. But in Milgauss eyes… The expensive crystals were but tools.

Milgauss easily lifted the gigantic sword and stabbed it deep into the ground. This was to send it's magic into the inner part of the mausoleum.

The dragon jaw shaped sword made a deep heavy sound and sunk into the rocks.

“This looks like a tombstone.”

Just when Milgauss was mumbling… A white shape swept passed his eyes. A flying object, that he thought to be a dragon, was getting nearer at a rapid pace.

As it flew over he spied the shadow which looked exactly like Lancelot's. Milgauss widened his eyes, that were under the mask, and looked at the evening sky.

“Hmph… The princess. On patrol?”

Milgauss immediately hid behind the rocks. Even though he thought that the sky was dark enough to hide him from the eyes of the rider he must never underestimate the eyes of a dragon.

Luckily, Lancelot had quickly begun its landing. It seems that they were heading for the mausoleum’s entrance. In a few moments he lost sight of Lancelot.

“Let’s begin.” Exiting from the cover of the rocks.

Milgauss grabbed the hilt of the gigantic sword and started to sing out the spell.

''“Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Show yourself by the crystals of the Magic Techniques. The spirits of the young dragons now be revived.”''

In a moments time… The bright-dragon-crystals on the hilt began to shine brightly.

===Part 19===
“A-Angela-sensei… Came to this cave?”

Silvia, who just alighted from Lancelot, was shocked after she examined at Willingham’s Mausoleum’s entrance.

She didn’t expect the mausoleum to be this scary.

It was fine while the sun was still bright but the now darkening sky made it seem a lot scarier.

The mist surrounding the entrance made it look like the doors to hell. Although there were bright-dragon-crystal powered lights around the entrance… They still didn’t ease her fear.

“Gawain…”

Ash placed his hand on Lucca’s head because of her worried looks.

“Rest assured. We will definitely find Gawain.”

“Nnn…” Lucca softly answered.

At the same time… A bolt struck out deep into the evening sky followed by the roaring sound of thunder.

“Kyaa!”

The first person to scream was Silvia.

Ash made a sympathetic smile. Although, under Veronica’s training, she had become stronger, she was still a coward.

But this mildly amusing situation was immediately interrupted by Eco.

“…Just like that time.”

Eco was looking at the sky with her sharp eyes.

Lancelot had also assumed it's alert posture and was growling with a "Grrrrrr…."

In the blink of an eye… Dark clouds had almost entirely filled the sky.

“Are you saying about the time when the Necromancia attacks…?”

Eco nodded while answering seriously.

“That’s right. This bad feeling… I can't be wrong about it!”

At this time the earth started and kept on shaking.

Ash nearly fell because of the strong continuous shaking. He already had a hard time to keeping balanced.

“Kyaa!”

But the other girl that fell in his direction had dragged him down together with her.

The girl who fell into his chest was Eco. Silvia, who already wouldn’t let go of his right arm, and also Lucca was tightly clinging onto his left arm. Even under this type of situation… Ash couldn’t enjoy it not one bit.

“Urgh-!”

His whole body was in pain. The rest had forgotten that Ash was a serious patient that had been advised by the doctor to have a sufficient amount of rest.

“S-Sorry! Are you alright?”

“S…orry!”

“It’s all because of me…”

Silvia, Lucca and Eco immediately apologized.

“Don’t worry… I’m alright.”

Ash didn’t want the others to worry about him and squeeze out a smile. But, his smile doesn’t look natural and he prayed that the dark sky can provide some cover for him.

After the earthquake stopped… Ash stood up.

“Fhuss…”

A sound as if it was laughing at Ash stubbornness was heard.

“-!”

One by one… A scary sight appeared from the dark corner of the mausoleum. They were not humans. Although they looked like dragons, they didn’t have the holy feelings that the dragons emit.

“Necromancia!”

At the same time that Eco warned the others… Something rushed out from the mausoleum.

Something that was bigger than a horse but too small compared to a dragon. Alas, there wasn't only just one, there were a bunch of them.

There were around five of them and each of them looked like a young Asia. Their bodies were black and have mad eyes, sharp teeth and a strong rotten smell.

“A young dragon sized… Necromancia?”

Just as Ash was speaking his thoughts… The leader of the Necromancia's attacked. After its mouth opened, shining rays could be seen- ''Don!'' And a ball of flames came flying along the ground.

Lancelot made a scary roar and activated its defensive magic’s shield and immediately the breath attack was nullified.

But there is no time to thank Lancelot.

The group had already extended their many deep red coloured 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 coloured tentacles rushed forward. However, Lancelot was not intimidated by them. It stood up, with its hind legs supporting its body, and slashed the Necromancia with its hammer like front legs. The sharp claws made a screeching sound and the tentacles were torn up like knives slicing rubber bands.

The scene could only be described as 'dead bodies everywhere.'

In only a few minutes the second batch of Asia type Necromancia were totally wiped out.

“S-Strong...!”

Lancelot’s heroic fight amazed Ash while Silvia’s dragon controlling skill had also improved significantly.

Silvia looked down towards the rest of the gang with a skillful look.

“Ride on Lancelot! Quickly, we are going into the mausoleum.”

===Part 20===
[[Image:SnRK V03 006-007.jpg|thumb|''... Rebecca is just too great. Jessica, who led the group of Hydras, was muttering while looking at Cú Chulainn who was flying above in the night sky.'']]
“All of you here had gone through the five days Selective Training Camp! Your skills have improved significantly! You must have faith in yourself! Your skills are far better than what you had imagined!”

Under Rebecca’s command the students had mounted their pals.

The Stradas were flying, the Asias were on their way to Norg Forest and the Hydras gathered at Allonnes Lake. Their strategy––An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

“... Rebecca is just too great.”

Jessica, who led the group of Hydras, was muttering while looking at Cú Chulainn who was flying above in the night sky.

===Part 21===
Rebecca was standing at the high end of Cú Chulainn’s neck. She was already in her Ark. The enormous amount of magic was surrounding her entire body. Max was acting as her second in command riding behind her on Arianrhod.

Not long before… The students were happily enjoying the cozzy atmosphere around the closing ceremony’s campfire.

But the Necromancias attacking from three directions, which were land, water and air, had drastically changed the mood. Just like heaven and hell the students were all in a panic, but thanks to Rebecca the tables had turned. Just a simple talk from Rebecca had given them the courage to fight.

Now, not only were the students not in any fear, they even trembled in excitement.

A huge amount of Necromancias were approaching.

There was only about a hundred meters in between them.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Rebecca naturally led the attack.

“Gáe Bolg!”

A bright light appeared after the spell had ended and a long spear appeared. Gáe Bolg’s light pierced through the dark sky followed by an explosion. One by one the Strada type Necromancia fell to the ground.

“Attack!”

Rebecca commanded like a general.

''“Oooooo!”''

Upon receiving the order… All the students attacked at the same time.

===Part 22===
Dim white lights were emitted from Lancelot’s horn.

This was a basic magic for the dragons. Thus, Ash and the rest didn’t have to rely on the bright-dragon-crystal torch while traversing the cave. Lancelot was walking forward silently and steadily through the cave. Its usual earth shaking footsteps almost couldn't be felt.

This had lessened the amount of burden that Ash’s, medically weak, body had to endure.

“Thank you. Princess.”

Silvia was surprised that Ash spoke behind her ears and her neck suddenly gave a jerk.

Because her hair was tied up with a red ribbon her white neck was exposed.

“Why are you acting with such ambiguity! I had done nothing that deserves your thanks!”

“You were worried about me and purposely asked Lancelot to slow down. Right? So…”

“I-I had never thought that far! How can we move quickly in this narrow space!”

Ash gave a wry smile. Silvia was shy about it. For such a great dragon like Lancelot… To move quickly in such a narrow space is but child’s play.

“-Careful!”

Silvia suddenly shouted.

“Ksharrrr!”

Three Strada type Necromancia attacked from the front. They looked more like bats than dragons.

Even though they were once noble dragons in their own time, after they became Necromancia, they were no different from any undistinguished animal.

Ash tensed. The next second...

“Grooooo….!”

Lancelot gave an angry roar… Along the path, where the brilliant dragon stepped passed, there were only ashes left behind.

“Such excellence.”

Upon hearing Ash’s murmur… Silvia proudly lifted her chest.

“Hmph… During your time spent recovering… I had completed every single course in the Selective Training Camp. The days when I did battle stimulations with the president was every day… I felt like crying when I said that."

What Silvia said felt like a sad tone hidden in it. She seemed to experience something terrible. Ash who had only experienced the first day’s sea water bath was regretting. 

But… The main reason Silvia became strong was mainly because of Princess Veronica’s encouragement.

If Veronica hadn’t visited Ansarivan last week… Silvia may not have turned over a new leaf.

“Back to the topic. Why haven’t we seen Angela-sensei yet?... I'm hoping she wasn’t attacked by the Necromancia.”

Silvia sighed while looking at the mausoleum’s map.

“We also haven’t found Gawain yet… Lucca. Have you felt anything?”

“I can’t… Because the Astral was not connected… My ‘Seikoku’ was not responding."

Sinca Lucca couldn’t feel anything; They could only ransack the entire cave. Although it will be a tiresome job, just by only imagining it, it was still an emergency.

“Another thing… Eco. There is something that I must tell you first hand.”

Ash was looking at Eco through his shoulders.

“Anything?”

Eco who was clinging tightly at Ash’s back lifted her head while feeling annoyed.

“The next time I ask you to hand me the Ark… Please do so immediately. Any doubt at that moment could make you regret for your whole life.”

“Wha…!”

Eco immediately explode. She kept on hitting Ash with her fist.

“I won’t allow you to order me! Be careful or I’ll trample you!”

Although the way she was hitting was more like emotionally pouting… The strength that she put in still made him suffer.

“I-It hurts! S-Stop hitting me!”

“Have you forgotten that you are still a patient! Even though those were temporally made mimic-Arks they still burden your body!”

Although she said it angrily… She was still concerned about Ash. The way she thinks made Ash happy but the situation right now was an emergency and maybe the mastermind was still somewhere in this mausoleum.

“If not… Could you create an Ark that doesn’t cause much burden to the body?”

“What did you say?”

“Please, I believed that you are able to make an Ark that was suitable for my current situation.”

“H-How… Could you speak with such confidence!”

“Do you even need to ask? Because Eco is my excellent pal!”

“…!”

It was possible that she was moved by Ash… Eco was speechless and blushed.

“Alright… B-But, during the time I’m in the dragon workshop, my body…”

Ash immediately knew what she was going to say.

Only a spirit can enter the dragon workshop and the true body will be left in this world.

When the spirit left the body the empty shell will be defenceless.

“Worry not. I’ll protect your body.”

Ash loosened his grip on Silvia’s waist and carefully switched places with Eco while trying not to fall off from Lancelot.

“Ash…?”

Eco was dumbstruck and turned around to look at Ash.

Ash then hugged Eco’s waist tightly.

“Wha-W-Wha…!”

Eco’s shoulders twisted for one moment and her body had become log like.

Her ears hidden in her hairs were red.

As if hot air is going to burst out anytime.

“I-If you don’t hold on to me tightly… You better watch out!” Eco said angrily

After that she relaxed and rested her back up against Ash’s chest. He could smell the fragrance of her shampoo.

The next moment Eco’s body went limp and was like a puppet whose strings had snapped. She loses her strength and lays her head on Ash’s right shoulder.

Ash had felt that her spirit had left her body.

“Our hopes are on you… Eco.”

Ash murmur was like praying as he held on tightly to Eco’s limp body.

===Part 23===
“Huh?”

Silvia immediately stopped Lancelot when they arrived at a large cavern.

It doesn’t look like a place that has Necromancia.

Lancelot increased the light intensity of its horns to brighten the extra space.

Silvia was holding the reins with her right hand and was checking the map with her left.

“According to this map… This should be the centre of the mausoleum.”

“Centre...”

Ash was holding on to Eco who was still unconscious tightly while looking around.

Silvia turned back and was secretly looking at Ash’s face.

“...”

Just to make a new Ark for Ash, Eco had went to the dragon workshop. Ash kept on holding to her petite body tightly for some time.

Of course the reason Ash did so was to prevent Eco from falling off from Lancelot... But Silvia had been jumpy since and couldn’t remain completely calm.

''-Damn, what am I getting nervous about!''

Silvia had reaffirmed herself and was looking around her surrounding carefully.

The size of the space was about the size of the academy’s lecture hall. The cavern ceiling was extremely high estimated at about fifteen meters. There were a lot of winged-cross shaped tombstones all around on the floor.

All the tombstones were at least five meters in height. The winged cross in the middle was far bigger than the rest. Its height almost touched the stone ceiling. Is there a powerful dragon buried there?

Too bad they still haven’t found Angela and Gawain. Logically speaking, this large empty space, located in the middle of the entire mausoleum, should be the place with the highest probability of finding them...

After Silvia gave a long sigh Ash said to her:

“Princess. Look up at the ceiling.”

“-Huh?”

Silvia’s eyes widened. There was a volcano like hole in the middle of the ceiling and the night sky could be seen from within. Before they had entered the mausoleum… Eco had described this dark sky as a ‘bad feeling’.

On a clear night there would have been moonlight shining through that hole to create a dreamy situation.

“Grrrrr...”

Lancelot suddenly lifted its neck and gave a warning growl.

It was staring intensely at the hole above.

“What’s it. Lancelot?”

Just when Silvia asked in surprised-

“We meet again. Shounen.” <ref>Shounen-Teenage boy.</ref>

A guy’s voice could be heard from above. A tall and thin person stood at the edge of the hole.

“You’re... Milgauss!”

Ash's sudden gasp could even be felt by Silvia.

Lancelot maneuvered so that his horn's light illuminated the scene above.

A lone guy wearing a mask appeared pale white in colour under the light. Silvia had also read the report book and immediately knew who he was.

“The ruffian who was called Milgauss! Who knew that I would meet you here! I, under the name of Lautreamont’s Royal Knight’s family, will punish you in the name of god!”

Even while facing Silvia, who was excited and indignant, Milgauss only replied with a laugh.

“Hmph... Come on… Even Veronica Lautreamont, who was a top warrior, wasn't even chosen to be a breeder... And yet a coward like you was chosen.”

“What... Did you say?”

The way Milgauss speaks, as if he knew a lot of her background in formations, made Silvia felt uneasy.

“Are you alright. Princess?”

Ash asked from behind.

“N-No... Nothing.”

Silvia’s mind was already in a mess even when she said so.

''-What is this feeling? That guy called Milgauss... Even though this is the first time I met him, but, he felt familiar. Why would I feel this way?''

“Princess? You... Are crying?”

“Huh!?”

Ash’s words woke her up.

She had only just found out that her tears already started falling.

“This... Why would I...?”

Even Silvia didn’t know why she cried. But, if she even glances at Milgaus, her heart will tighten.

Milgauss suddenly gave a smile.

A smile of a father who cares about his child. A peaceful and caring smile.

“You had grown… Sylvie.”

“Wha-!”

Silvia felt a cold chill.

No matter how wide is the world… The only ones who would call her by her pet name will be family members. Not only that… His suddenly gentle voice had caused her to recall forgotten memories.

''-Onii-sama! Julius onii-sama!''

''-Haha, Silvia, you pampered child.''

''-It’s because... Onii-sama kept on talking to Glenn-dono and had forgotten about me!''

Her childhood memories resurfaced in her mind.

How is this possible.

-‘Dragon Slayer’.

Brother Julius had committed such a serious offense and had been punished. Silvia was only five during that time.

In Lautreamont Knight Country… Killing a dragon is the utmost offense. Even if it was the prince of the Knight’s royal family… He will still be punished. To make it worse… The dragon that Julius killed was his pal… Maestro Mordred.

Julius was already dead.

But... Milgauss had the same feel as Julius with every movement he made.

At this moment Lancelot had again given a warning growl. As if it was trying to tell Silvia to raise her guard.

“Could it be...!”

Silvia had also felt that something was very wrong.

The ground was slightly shaking.

''-Something was hidden in the ground!''

“Kuku... Up to what extent Lancelot can fight is something worth seeing. Or is it that… The guy over there will come out with some weird tactics?”

“Urgh...”

Ash kept silent.

Eco had remained silent and had yet to wake up. Silvia also couldn’t predict the amount of time needed for Eco to create a new Ark.

Milgauss, as if he saw through Ash’s Achilles heel, gave an expression of ridicule.

“But, judging by Avalon’s Princess behavior, I believe that you won’t be able to come up with anything unusual. No?”

“Avalon’s Princess? Why would you also know about-” Ash was obviously shaken.

''Avalon- This word was suspected to originate from the ancient language.'' Silvia doesn’t know what that means. ''Anyway… what’s this about a princess?''

''-No... This isn't the time to worry about those things...''

Silvia cleared her mind and focused on the current situation.

“Let me tell you, the dragons buried in this mausoleum were but young dragons! Even after they became Necromancia… They are still no match for my Lancelot!”

Silvia declared but Milgauss was not even bothered by it.

“Is it so? I had sent most of them to the training campsite. Those Necromancias that you had beaten were small fries. Also… The dragons buried here were Maestros in their past life.”

As if to answer Milgauss's words… The ground split into two. The enormously loud sound was echoing around the cave while the large tombstone followed it by falling to the ground.

A huge object could be seen appearing from beneath.

“Roarrrrr...!”

A roar, as if it had arisen from hell, followed and their fight with Lancelot had started.

Strong wing. Thick jaws and sharps horns…

Apart from their dark skin… They have the looks of a maestro.

“Kuku... Let me tell you! Its name is Nuada!”

Upon hearing this… Silvia was stunned.

“A tragedy that every citizen of the Knight Country knew. You should had heard about it before, right? It is the dragon who loves its master and chose to commit suicide-”

===Part 24===
“Have you gotten everything that I had said, Navi?”

Eco was having a conversation in the dragon workshop.

Navi, as usual, was wearing an evening dress while sitting on an antique chair.

“The Ark that suits his current condition most…? Hehe. This is interesting.”

Her mature version of Eco’s look was as beautiful as usual. Perhaps it was because of this… Eco hated this woman very much. Even after saying that to herself… Right now she must focus on the main situation.

“I don’t have much time. Can you replace my job for the restructuring process?”

“Ara. Why do you even need my help?”

Navi impishly smiled.

“Do I even have a choice! Even though I don’t like it... You are still more knowledgeable than me... And I expect that you could come out with a better result compared to me."

“Your judgment is correct. We are like two faces on a coin. If you are the person who lives in the outer world then I am the person who lives in the inner world. Of course I will help you.”

“So you have agreed to help me?”

“As long as you promise me one thing.”

“Promise? What do you want me to do?”

“You must promise me that, one day, you will present an Ark to Ash Blake. It must not be a mimic but a top rate piece of work that you had created.”

“W-What are you talking about! How could I agree to this!”

“Ara. Have you already given up before you even challenged it?”

“B-Because... To present the Ark to him also means…”

Navi smiled.

“That’s right. You are going to give him your everything.”

“How could I…”

Eco was speechless. Her whole body was hot as if it was burning. To give her everything to Ash, just by thinking about it, Eco was already very embarrassed about it.

“Are you willing to agree to my condition? Or not?”

“Urgh...”

Navi’s provocation made her mad but… It takes time to do the review. Since there were more than a thousand Ark blueprints left by her ancestral legacy…

To do the review is to search amongst all the various parts, or component blueprints, and identify those that suit Ash the most.

She will be fine, if just that were so, but… There was this ‘not to burden Ash’s body’ rule this time.

This is much more difficult than the ‘ice element’ that Ask asked for during the church terrorist incident.

Strictly speaking. Eco didn’t even know if there was even one Ark that doesn’t overly burden the person wearing it. So this problem had nothing to do with time and she can only rely on Navi’s knowledge.

“...Alright. I promise.”

After Eco had made her mental preparations… Navi smiled and the place suddenly was filled with soothing bright lights.

At the same time, there were many blueprints moving about Navi’s field of view. Those were the various Ark designs that the dragons, over the ages, left behind.

Navi, with her glossy and watery lips, begins to sing out the name of each part of the new Ark-

''“Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas, Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes, Espolón.”''

Eco was speechless.

A few thousands of those blueprints were spinning around on Navi’s head. Those that were determined as unnecessary disappear immediately and whats left over are the ones that are important.

“W-What a fast searching speed...” Eco was stunned…

At that moment all the blueprints, that were flying around Navi’s head, vanished.

The lights that filled the dragon workshop had also disappeared. Navi slowly stood up from the chair and walked towards Eco.

“W-What is it...?’

Navi was too beautiful to look at and she unconsciously took a step backwards. Navi playfully smiled and placed her palm on Eco’s head.

“This is...!”

Eco felt a cold chill. An enormous amount of information entered her brain from Navi’s palm. But half way through the process… It was interrupted.

“W-Why?”

“...He is facing great danger.”

Navi was looking at the three dimension projected screen in mid-air with a serious expression.

“Then be quick!” Eco cried.

“It seems that we must act quickly.”

Navi again placed her palm on Eco’s head and retransferred the information.

===Part 25===
“Is it really Nuada…!”

Ash shouted but he was immediately back to his calm self.

That's right! The problem is not whether it is Nuada or not. The main point is; This Necromancia is a Maestro.

Also, the Necromancia revived from the ground was not only Nuada alone. The tombstones around also fell to the ground one by one. A total of nine Asia type Necromancia crawled out from the ground.

“Princess. It is better that we retreat for the time being-”

After giving a glance at the passage behind, Ash calmly made the suggestion.

The escape path was not yet blocked by the enemies. To fight in this open space, the enemies will surely attack from all directions. It will be a tough battle even though Lancelot is strong.

But if they retreat to the narrow passage, the enemies will be forced to come at them in a line. They may have a chance in winning like this.

“No!” Silvia stubbornly disagreed with retreat.

She was so angry that her hands, while holding the reins, were trembling.

“Milgauss… Do you know what you had done! You… You've stained Nuada’s spirit, and that you should never have done!”

“P-Princess…?”

Ash was at a loss when he looked at Silvia being angry.

Silvia had obviously believed what Milgauss had said. She probably had the experience of crying after hearing Nuada’s story in her childhood.

At this moment Lucca, who had remained silent the whole time, cried out.

“I also… Will never forgive that person!”

It is easy to understand how she felt. Because Gawain had followed in Nuada’s footsteps and had disappeared for Lucca's sake. Her emotional reaction was probably founded on this.

Ash was worried about the current situation.

“Young dragon Nuada! I swear, in the name of the Lautreamont Royal Knight's Family, I will defeat you! This is the only thing that I can do for you!”

In reply, to Silvia’s sworn oath, Lancelot roared with a high pitch and immediately attacked Nuada. It stood on its hind legs and piled on attacks with its front. Upon seeing this Nuada also stood up and defended with its front legs.

The two ferocious dragon began a battle between titans.

All of a sudden… Nuada opened its lower jaw and blew out some black gas. It was almost a zero range, point blank, attack…

“Urgh…!”

Ash felt something was wrong and he hugged Eco tightly to protect her. He was angry at his useless self who couldn’t do anything.

Lancelot also remained strong. Just before Nuada’s breath attack exploded it triggered its own defensive magic.

-The sound of explosions kept shaking their ears.

The explosions were reflected back to Nuada, who was too close to the defensive magic, and immediately more explosions were heard. Lancelot's defensive magic was extremely sturdy and Ash only felt a slight vibration.

“Great…!”

Right until now… Ash had kept his eyes open. Half of Nuada’s head had disappeared and its grey coloured 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 coloured 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 defence 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 ‘defence’! 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 colourful lights.

These units were not normal shields. They all have the characteristics of a magic cannon.

The continuous lights that were attacking the Asia type Necromancias were like spider webs.

Not only that… There were some unexpected weird changes on the Necromancia that were directly struck by the lights. In a very short time, they had become stones .

Aegis was not releasing the usual degree of attacking type magic.

That was a high level magic that, upon coming into contact with the light, turned living things into stone . Even though it is from one of the dangerous areas of magic, named in the list of banned spells by the Knight Country, now is not the time to act like a good model citizen.

In just a few seconds time all seven Necromancias had turned into stones. Ash breathed a sigh relief and withdrew Aegis’s magic.

“Thank you, Eco.”

“N-Nothing… And I’m not even doing this for you.”

Eco turned her face aside but her face was definitely blushing. Ash gave a dry smile but now is still not the time to lower their guard.

Anyway... Silvia was piloting Lancelot with all her skill as they fought Nuada one on one. It was a situation where both of their front legs were interlocked somewhat like in a wrestling match. For attacks each of them use magic and tail swipes for advantage.

“Princess! I’ll be there to help you in a short moment!”

Ash who was prepared to help had met a blank wall.

“I don’t need any help! Go and capture Milgauss! Lancelot and I will calm down Nuada’s spirit.”

Silvia’s talk made Ash speechless.

Silvia was really angry. Even so… she still hasn’t lost her cool. She had sworn to defeat Nuada in the name of the Royal Knight’s Family and perhaps she truly thought that this is her mission.

“Roger that! Princess I’ll leave it in your hands!”

After Ash shouted back to Silvia he started running.

Right in front of him was Nuada’s tombstone. The tip of the slanting winged cross was pointing at the hole of the ceiling. Milgauss was still standing at the side of the hole looking down.

Ash jumped towards the sky along the side of the winged cross and stepped on the middle of it, gave himself a hop, landing on the tip of the wing and continued to jump up from there. With the aid of the Ark… Ash accomplished a jump that a normal human can’t do.

His body passed up and through the hole of the ceiling.

The misty air of the inner part of the cave had suddenly become replaced by the fresh and cool nighttime air.

However… The air is very cold and it doesn’t seem like summer anymore.

At the top of the nearby hills there are many stubs of bare rock.

Luckily, although the surroundings are dark, the Ark produces a dim light. Also, since he had been in the dark cave for a long time, his eyes are already used to the darkness.

“Milgauss!”

Ash started a fight with Milgauss. Although Eco was mad about it he still chose to use hand to hand combat which is the easiest.

He remembered the time when he met Milgauss for the first time in the forest.

Ash didn’t even have the ability to fight back during that time. Because, before he managed to land a hit on Milgauss, Ash was ambushed by Milgauss's underling. He was nearly killed by that girl.

But the situation right now is different. Ash was protected by Eco’s Ark and he had decided to KO his opponent in one hit.

But-

With only his left hand Milgauss, had blocked Ash’s right punch. He had focused all his strength in that punch too.

“How is this possible…?”

“Hmph. Is the strength of an Ark-Dragner just like this?”

“Urgh…”

He can’t move his right hand at all. It is similar to being clenched by a pair of pliers.

“This proves that you are just a fake.”

Milgauss tone was as cold as iron.

There was a gigantic sword in his right hand.

“Wha…!”

Ash widened his eyes in disbelief. It is as if the sword was made out of darkness. The large bright-dragon-crystals mounted on the hilt definitely proved it was not an ordinary sword.

“A fake like you has no right to touch me.”

-A flash from the black sword.

There is a sudden black gust. Ash, whose right hand is now handicapped, had nowhere to run to. He could only use the Manoplas on his left hand to protect himself.

As if a big hammer was hitting his head, the impact passed through his body in a short moment. The impact was so strong that even the Ark couldn’t endure it fully.

''“*Cough...*”''

“Where is your big talk just now?”

Milgauss let go of Ash’s right hand and then wielded the gigantic sword with both hands.

Then then lifted the sword brought it down all in one motion.

“Guak!”

The dark metal blade sunk into his abdomen. In that short moment… Ash felt that his waist was going to be chopped in two. Then the Ark made a ''‘click’'' sound. Even the Ark was groaning…

''“-Aegis!”''

Obviously, Milgauss was not an opponent for him to fight with in hand to hand combat. So Ash resummoned Aegis. The five units split out immediately and attacked Milgauss. As long as a light managed to hit him, he will then turn into a stone.

“Too slow!”

But Milgauss, with extraordinary nimble moves, avoided all the light rays. Then he swung the black sword at a lightning speed.

The units were being attacked and destroyed by a tornado-like slash. One after another they disappeared.

“What is he actually made of…!”

After Ash groaned, he was on his knees. The amount of magic collected in the Ark has a limit and Ash felt that the armour was slowly disappearing.

After Milgauss dealt with the five units his target had shifted once again to Ash. He gave Ash a kick without any delay. Even with the protection of the Ark, the impact was still transmitted into his abdomen.

''“*-Cough!*”''

Ash was out of breathe and was kicked around like a puppet. He finally landed hard, with his back facing the rocks.

Blood started flowing out from his mouth…

“Ku…”

Ash spit out saliva with blood in it and immediately hid behind the rock. The size of the rock is just enough to keep him hidden.

“Hmph. Are you trying to hide to drag out the time?”

Ash remained silent. He was sitting at the back of the rock waiting for a good moment. His body was in a mess and he probably had only one more chance…

''-Ssss, ssss…''

Milgauss was not buying any of his tricks and marched right towards Ash.

“Anything wrong right there? Can’t you use Aegis?”

''Milgauss was probably laughing his ass off right now''. Ash answered to himself while thinking of his disgusting face:

“Too bad. I’m out of magic…”

“Luck is not on your side today, shounen.”

Followed by a shout, there was an impact on the rock behind Ash.

===Part 28===
“Shoo. Shoo…!”

With the aid of the Ark, Ash easily jumped out through the ceiling’s hole but Eco wasn’t that lucky. She left Lancelot who was in a brutal fight with Nuada and climbed the huge winged cross.

“W-Wait for me…!”

Looking downwards, she saw Lucca was trying her best to cling onto the winged cross.

“Tsk… Just don’t blame me if you fall.”

Eco stepped on the wing of the winged cross without being bothered by Lucca. If she is not careful––she will definitely fall head down. Her current height was about ten meters. Although, she was frightened by it, she still needed to move forward.

Even though she felt guilty, about leaving Lucca, Eco still wanted to rush to Ash’s side as soon as possible.

The moment Eco saw the guy called Milgauss, she felt disgusted.

She remembered the nightmare that made her wet her bed.

Eco was attacked by a scary dragon in her dream.

It had nine eyes, numerous tentacles and was far scarier than a Necromancia…

The unbelievable thing was, the moment she saw Milgauss, the first thing that came into her mind was that dragon. It will be fine if she was just worrying too much… But just in case Eco’s instinct was right… Then Milgauss is a dangerous being. Eco couldn’t guarantee that the Ark has enough power to go against him.

Ash’s body condition also worried her.

Ash was, even in the beginning, a heavily injured patient. Logically speaking he should rest for a month, but…

But, even after she arrived at the location, apart from making the (mimic) Ark, there was nothing else she could do. It will not be surprising that she will be a burden.

Even so… Eco still couldn’t calm down her worrisome emotions and chose to climb the winged cross.

After some effort Eco finally arrived at the ceiling’s hole. She then took a look up, outside under the cloudy night sky.

“-Huh…?”

Eco had seen it all in that short moment.

Milgauss was holding a gigantic sword up high, looking like it had merged together with the night sky, and was going split open a rock.

Eco’s instinct told her that Ash was hiding behind the rock.

In an direct combat Ash was definitely out of his league. He was now going to be sliced open together with the rock by Milgauss…!

“Ash!”

Eco called out his name in desperation.

===Part 29===
''This blow will definitely crush the rock and Ash into pieces.'' Milgauss, who thought that he had a sure win, split open the rock in front of him.

The rock scattered into tiny fragments and powder.

A thick dust spread all over and blocked his sight.

After the explosion like power cooled down…

“What…?”

Milgauss remained in the exact posture of his finishing the blow.

After most of the dust falls, what was in front of Milgauss was not Ash’s body.

A unit in mid-air was pinning on to Milgauss.

A light was released from the front of the unit.

“Urgh…!”

Milgauss immediately lifted his left hand to block the light and also slashed the unit with his sword in his right hand. Although Aegis was reduced to light particles, and disappeared, its effect was still ongoing. Milgauss, who felt something was wrong, looked at his own body and saw his left arm starting to turn into stone.

“-Milgauss!”

Ash suddenly came down from the sky.

He had used the stone fragments as a screen and used an Aegis unit as a stepping stone to jump…

There was no longer an Ark on Ash. He probably used all his magic to summon the two units.

…Wait… He still has his Manoplas on his right hand!

“What an eyesore!”

Milgauss swung the black sword with only his right hand, but he had only manage to destroy the unit that Ash was stepping on.

“Uwooooo!”

Ash, who was experiencing free fall, uses the momentum and swings a punch with the Manoplas.

Milgauss immediately put up a defensive posture, with the huge sword above his head, but he still couldn’t avoid the powerful impact.

“Urgh…!’

Milgauss was knocked off together with his sword.

===Part 30===
“Huff, puff… How is this punch?”

At the same time Ash landed, his Manoplas disappeared. He next felt a terrible pain, as if his flesh was being sliced off.

But now is not the time for him to show his weak side. Even though Milgauss fell down hard on the ground, he still remains conscious. Ash could only try to bear with his pain.

“Hehe… Weren’t you out of magic?”

Milgauss, using the gigantic sword as a walking stick to support himself, slowly stood up. His left arm was hanging freely and lifelessly. It had been converted to stone.

“I didn’t say that I couldn’t summon Aegis again. It’s you who had been fooled. You had lost.”

“Hmph. I thought you were an idiot who only had strength. So it seems that you can actually do some scheming? But this can only be called as a trick and its still to much to call it a scheme."

After Milgauss made a haughty smile he seemed to remember something… He then pulled off his left arm and threw it to Ash.

“Wha…!”

Ash was staring at the left arm that landed on the ground.

“…Prosthetic arm?”

“That’s right. This is a creation of the Empire’s proud mechanical engineering.”

Ash was clenching his teeth. Ash is not only just a normal human without the protection of the Ark… He is also a seriously injured patient.

On the opposing side, Milgauss had only lost a prosthetic arm.

He was in a fix.

But- Just when Ash lost hope, there was a heroic voice coming from behind him.

“Listen carefully, Milgauss! I Silvia Lautreamont and Lancelot, have altogether defeated the young dragon Nuada’s spirit!”

Ash turned around to have a look and cheered happily.

“Princess! Lancelot!”

Nuada’s head was still in Lancelot’s mouth when it landed in between Ash and Milgauss. The only word that could describe its condition was 'terrible'. Its white skin had become dirty and full of blood.

Although injured… Lancelot’s blue eyes still looked as if they were full of spirit. Apart from Silvia, who was riding on its back, Eco and Lucca were also there.

Lancelot gave a menacing growl, while lowering down its neck, and placed Nuada’s head in front of Milgauss.

As if it wants Milgauss to apologize…

After Nuada’s severed head stared at Milgauss for a short moment, it turned into ashes. In the blink of an eye they were blown off by the nights breeze.

After Silvia witnessed the ashes being carried away by the wind she focused her attention back to Milgauss.

“…Princess?”

Ash knew something was wrong with her.

In this situation, winning was already in the grasp of their hand. No matter how strong Milgauss is, he will still face trouble when he is going against Silvia.

Logically speaking, Silvia should also know about this but she continued to stand still without any reasons.

“Hmph… It seems that I must change my opinion towards the Fourth Princess. I’ll withdraw for today.”

Milgauss placed the gigantic sword on his shoulder and slowly retreated.

“But the training campsite had already become a battle field. Just how many of them could survive? I would love to know…” Milgauss provoked.

After that, he jumped out into the night.

Surprisingly… He had jumped off the cliff.

Even so, from his previous battle experience with Milgauss, Ash knew that he is not just some average ordinary guy. He should have survived the fall.

And he will be back…

Just as if she had calculated the time, for Milgauss to withdraw, Silvia spoke:

“Thanks a lot, Lancelot. You may take your rest.”

Lancelot immediately bent its knees and lay down and, after closing its eyes, started to snore gently.

Silvia first climbed off its back then helped Eco and Lucca down from Lancelot.

“Is Lancelot alright?”

Ash worriedly looked at the sleeping Lancelot.

“Rest assured, it doesn’t have any vital injuries. It's just that… It has run out of magic. We only had the strength left to frighten Milgauss just now."

Ash only now knew why Silvia would let him escape. Because she didn’t even have the ability left to order him around. Back to the topic, if it was not because of Silvia’s and Lancelot’s intimidation, Ash would have died under Milgauss sword.

“And also, maybe… That guy…”

Silvia’s troubled looks made Ash curious.

“Princess?”

“N-Nothing. Just pretend that I didn’t say anything!”

Silvia, panicky, waved Ash off which in turns worried him further.

At this instant, Lucca said. “The training campsite is…”

Eco was also looking at the direction of the campsite dumbstruck.

“How come…!”

By following their sight… Ash also turned speechless.

Just like Milgauss declared, the training campsite had become a battlefield. The Necromancia's attack had yet to be stopped.

There were numerous sounds of explosions and the lights from the magic were flashing here and there. Although the campsite was safe, the dragon house beside was on fire and there were black smokes all over the night sky.

''Is everyone still alright? What about Rebecca? Max? And the rest? The instructors? The staffs for the training campsite? The girls who were in charge of the food service?''

“Damn… Even when we wanted to help them…”

Ash felt that he was filled with desperation.

''Apart from standing on the hills and looking from afar… We couldn’t even do a thing-''

As if to cheer him up, Lucca pulled Ash’s sleeves.

“I had a favor… To ask from you.”

As if she had made up her mind, Lucca was staring at Ash. Ash was troubled by it because her face was too close to his.

“W-What is it?”

Her Yōsei eyes were clear and shining even under the night sky.

Her eyes, full of determination, caused Ash to return her stare.

“Please… Come with me.”

“Why?”

“For Gawain and me… You had wagered your life for us. Just to let us feel the same like old times… If you are together with me… I think I could muster up some courage.”

“Could it be that you know a way to save everyone?”

Lucca extended her hand towards Ash.

“I want to save them… No, I must save them.”

Ash held Lucca’s palm as if he was going to be sucked in by the determination in her eyes.

Her body temperature was transmitted to Ash through her tiny leaf size like palm.

“Alright. I believe in you.”

After Ash answered with a steady tone Lucca smiled in embarrassment.

===Part 31===
Under the silent eyes of both Silvia and Eco Lucca and Ash move towards the edge of the cliff… Which was also the place where Milgauss jumped off from.

''Shoo… Shoo…'' The sounds of the winds pass through the darkness down below.

“Lucca…? What do you intend to do?”

Ash took a peek at Lucca’s face whilst being frightened.

“Jump down… From here.”

“J-Jump down-?”

Lucca didn’t answer. She just hurdled herself into Ash’s arms. Behind them there were immediate sounds of disparagement coming from both Silvia and Eco. There wasn't any time to worry about it.

Lucca placed her hands around Ash and hugged him as if she was hurting him on purpose. Although his organs were screaming in pain Ash still managed to bear with it. If he groaned in pain at this moment he will disappoint Lucca.

''Even so, what was Lucca actually thinking…?''

“We are going to jump.”

When her voice reaches Ash… He is already in mid-air.

Just like what she said, Lucca jumped down from the cliff.

And she was falling together with Ash-

The feeling of floating in mid-air only lasted for a second… Then both of them, gathering speed, fell in a straight line.

“Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Whilst listening to the sound of the winds buzzing past his ear, Ash was swallowed into the dark abyss. He thought that he heard Eco’s and Silvia’s screams, for a short moment from far above, but the voices were soon lost.

===Part 32===
They kept on falling.

Ash and Lucca were hugging each other when they fall towards the bottom of the cliff.

Thinking back carefully… The same thing happened when Eco was born. It seems that he was fated for such things…

Suddenly he seemed to hear Lucca’s voice, somewhat obscured by the sound of the wind.

She seemed to be speaking to herself while huddling to Ash.

“Sorry… Gawain. I’ll never again be afraid of you.”

''Aah… So that's it.''

Ash finally understands Lucca’s determination. Just like Gawain's overprotection of Lucca, which had caused itself cut off its Astral, this time Lucca wagered her own life.

After Lucca hugged Ash tighter, she shouted loudly:

“Please accept me once more, Gawain!”

It is hard to believe that such a loud voice would come from such a petite girl. Her voice sounded so strong that it was enough to pierce through the night.

There was a glaring light coming from Lucca suddenly.

The golden rays started to surround her body.

“Could this be… Astral?”

Ash, who was still falling with Lucca, was stunned. He couldn’t believe that he could see Astral with mortal eyes.

“Quick… Suck them in Gawain! Taken my Astral… No, absorb me! You are my… Pal!”

The shout that she put her full effort in was echoing in the night.

Just before the voice disappeared-

There was an explosion around the hills near Willing Mausoleum. Gawain emerged from it while releasing a magic that brightened the night sky.

Ash's gaze was attracted to Gawain’s movement. With the Astral flow resumed he had totally recovered.

After Gawain gave a roar, that a young dragon couldn’t possible make, it carefully catches both Lucca and Ash with its back.

===Part 33===
“I have… Another request.”

“I’ll do anything, as long as it is in my range of ability.”

Ash replied loudly. Their priority is to save the students and Ash is willing to suffer any kind of pain for it. Lucca worriedly stated her request in a low voice.

“…I’m going to challenge the Dragon Riding Dance. So… I hoped you could hold on to me tightly.”

“No problem!”

Ash recalled what Navi had said.

That is the Eckbald’s traditional dance.

Because of Lucca’s failure while practicing the dance it had caused her to have problems when facing Gawain.

Ash was unable to imagine what kind of a dance is that, but he was mentally prepared.

Now he could only place his hopes on Lucca’s Dragon Riding Dance.

Ash hugged Lucca’s waist tightly with both of his hands.

“Is this alright?”

“…Tighter.”

“How about this?”

“Tighter.”

“Urgh…What about this?”

Lucca answered by nodding.

Suddenly, there was a clear metallic sound coming from Lucca’s leg. Her dragsuit was modified with standard spurs. Gawain received the signal, lifted its head high, roared and then rushed up into the sky.

===Part 34===
The Ark had disappeared after Rebecca annihilate a group of Strada type Necromancia with her magic spear, Gáe Bolg.

Rebecca reluctantly sighed. Cú Chulainn's magic was almost used up and could no longer maintain its flight. It landed beside the lake.

“Should we end it here-”

The training campsite, that acted as a temporary battle headquarters, was still fine, but the dragon house nearby was being swallowed by a great fire.

Both parties were still fighting by the lakeside.

Just like Cú Chulainn all the dragons had already used up their magic and many of the were fighting using only hand to hand combat in its true and brutal form.

Because their opponents were Necromancias they had extraordinary endurance. Every time they receive a fatal blow, they still continue to regenerate and stand back up.

This batch of students had been performing well in this fight and they were worthy to become the selected participants of this training camp.

But there was no end to the amount of enemies. Everyone was wondering how many dragons had been buried at the mausaleum while reinforcements for the enemy just kept on arriving.

Apart from that, Rebecca could no longer summon the power of an Ark-Dragner. This fact alone had lowered the students fighting moral.

“We don’t have any more choices left. Should we just give up on the training campsite… And retreat?”

Rebecca made the bitter decision. Everyone would be devastated to lose such a great traditional facility. The training campsite, at Allonnes Lakeside, is also a place with long history.

But she must prioritize the students’ lives. If they give up right now they still have the chance to retreat in one piece. ''Once the retreating path had been blocked off by the Necromancias…'' Rebecca felt a cold chill just by thinking about it.

Currently: three students were heavily injured, fifteen were slightly injured and seven dragons were also injured. Although they had not yet suffered any fatalities yet… Still, if they continued to hold on… The situation will become irreversible.

Rebecca made up her mind. She took a deep breath and was about to order the students to retreat...

Just at this moment… A flying object shot passed in the sky.

From the bright silver track left behind by its excessive magic––that must be a Maestro.

“Is it Lancelot?”

No. The tracks left behind by in its dance were obviously not accomplished by any ordinary Maestro. It was as if it took the sky as its own drawing space and spread its wings boldly while flying…

“Could that be… Gawain?”

===Part 35===
''-What type of dragon riding is this? This is the first time in my whole life I saw Dragner control their dragon using this method…!''

Under the effect of the strong centrifugal force Ash nearly lost his consciousness.

He felt as if he was suffering from anemia. He was already facing trouble just holding on to Lucca.

If he had been careless even for one moment… He would most probably be facing a watery grave right now.

The Eckbald’s Dragon Riding Dance couldn’t be reasoned with human knowledge.

A sharp corner turn.

A strong centrifugal force that could even rattle the brain.

The ruffeling sounds of the wind rushing beside his ears.

Although he also faced groups of Strada type Necromancia along his way Gawain wasn't distracted by them, in the same way a lion is not bothered by ants, and it continued to fly on.

The Strada type Necromancia couldn’t keep up with Gawain’s speed and scattered like being blown off by a storm.

''-Is this really a… Dance?''

''If this is also considered a type of dance… How do we classify the flying method in the academy? This is totally at a different level! Obviously… There is too much of a difference…!''

''-Lucca is undoubtedly a genius!''

Ash finally knows the reason why Lucca was still selected for the training camp even after she had been absent for three months.

At the same time… He experienced personally the terrifying feeling of falling off in the midst of the Dragon Riding Dance. Just by thinking of it, Ash's entire body stiffened, knowing it was a miracle that Lucca's body remained intact even after she had fallen from Gawain during practice.

Also… Lucca was not flying blindly.

Ash realized that, onto the night sky, Gawain was tracing a magic pattern, all within a circle, with its tracks.

Not long after that, the huge magic diagram had been completed.

Thinking back… Navi had mentioned something before.

''-Once the Dragon riding dance had been completed, many effects of magic will be activated.''

Ash’s eyes widen.

“Isn’t this a ‘Seikoku’!”

That’s right! The image that Lucca and Gawain completed together is a ‘Seikoku’.

There was the head of a dragon in the middle of a circle and it looked unique. The diameter should be more than a hundred meters.

The moment the magic circle was completed Lucca shouted:

“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''!" <ref>From Sanskrit, means immortality</ref>

The magic circle started glowing, and then brightened into a glaring light.

===Part 36===
[[Image:SnRK V03 285.jpg|thumb|“Dragon Riding Dance, the First Dance- '''‘The Amrita of purification’'''."]]
All the students who were busy fighting by the lakeside were shocked by the sudden lights.

The huge magic circle- ‘Seikoku’ was hanging at a corner of the night sky.

“So you had succeeded… Lucca.”

Rebecca smiled in relief.

After being exposed to the strong glaring light the tough Necromancias had returned back to ashes one by one.

On the other hand, the students had recovered their energy as if they had been treated with healing magic.

Rebecca also felt that her body had become lighter and the gloom in her heart had departed. It's as if her desperation from before was only an illusion.

She now felt that she can still continue the battle.

Upon seeing all the Necromancia at the lakeside had been defeated, the student cheered in unison. Even the injured patients who were taking refuge back at the training campsite ran out to the lakeside and cheered.

Looking at Gawain, who was flying energetically through the night sky, Rebecca chuckled.

“Since the ancient times the Eckbalds, who were dragners, were called ‘Elfn Dancer’. The Lucca right now best fits the descriptions-”

"Elfn Dancer ~A.S.B 1365.6~"is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
|-
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3

2018-10-03T10:24:04Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring to flow better.

==Chapter 3 - The Lakeside Vacation==
===Part 1===
Danebury was one of the few commercial cities in Ansarivan. In this heavily fortified town, many trade guilds from different countries could be seen. All the businessmen were doing their best to sell their goods. Just don't get fooled by this peaceful town, this town adopted to many changes. Danebury was also a place famous for its nickname ‘Pot of different races’. No one even bothered with Anya, who was from the Tantalos tribe, when she was walking on the streets. There were 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 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 one else 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, definitely caught the attention of others even in this so called ‘Pot of different races’.

“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 whom Anya had not seen before. Though the title "Count of a borderland" always gave the impression of an old man - Klaus was a noble 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 hadn'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 her 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 around that time. After that, it became a tradition to bury young dragons there.”

Today was 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 would 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 experimentation. To summon a Necromancia… The bones and ashes of a dragon were 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 resolved to 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 the young dragon Eco that Anya had collected. Even though the data was incomplete… Milgauss still managed to find a hidden clue in a short time.

“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 rose… 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 off the top students was 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 town walls, the students followed the instruction of their instructors and were separated into three groups. '''(!)''' It was because the upcoming paths would be chosen according to the type of dragon. The Maestros and Stradas would take the sky path, Asias would take the land path and Hydras, 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 were still playing in the water. Each group was 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 to 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 coloured 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 could move on land they showed their true ability only 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 seemed 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 then pulled 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 was an incredible guy. He hadn't spoken much to Silvia in the three years of his basic class years. That was 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 of the 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 went back to his village empty handed. The Princess of the Knight’s Royal Family and the village boy.

Logically speaking… They never had 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 didn'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 was 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 decided to calm down her emotions first.

“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 will allow 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 though?”

“What!”

With a ‘crack’… The time had frozen. In this moment, Silvia realized that she had misunderstood.

To put it bluntly… The person who was 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 heating up by due to 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 did not receive any Astral, there wasn'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 must never 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 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.” said Silvia happily.

At the center of the endless plains… Ansarivan was like a beautiful model. The streets for the dragon riding festival’s competition and Fianna Forest could be seen all together.

The Strada’s group, lead by the instructors, was some distance away and looked 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 was probably she didn't want the rest of the students to find out about Lucca and Gawain. Even though it was 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 emitted a killing intent that immediately frightened 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 ‘honourable and extraordinary dragons’ she still faced human-liked troubles.

“That’s because of Ash… Sometimes… He will either stare at yours or Rebecca's breasts. 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 is 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 way of thinking and 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 didn'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 defences are full of holes!”

Eco squeezed her hand under the both sides of Silvia’s armpits and Silvia’s muscles suddenly had a shock. Eco was right; Silvia, who was now in control of the reins, now has zero protection as far as she could 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 had the largest surface area of any lake in the Knight Country. It was also the place where ayu and funa were produced. <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 contained high amounts of Astral. It was also well known as a recuperative resting spot for dragons.

There were many villas scattered around the lakeside that could 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 its sheer size. Also, at the same time, a little distance away from the lakeside there were some large rocky hills. One of which was the location of the ancient mausoleum.

All scholars specialized in dragons knew that that was the 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 through dragon flight. 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 path 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 path.

Rebecca who acted as the master of ceremony stood up and glanced at the students.

“I’m student council president Rebecca Randall and 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 their 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 didn't feel 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 set. Although Ash didn't bring his swim wear with him, he never regretted that. It was because he never had any intention to have fun in the water. If he changed into his swimming wear the ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand will be exposed and going into the water with the bandages on didn't look natural at all. Ash changed into his casual wear, which included 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 was 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 seemed 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 coloured 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 was because of Cosette acted naturally when she handed her her swimming wear? The design was just too much of an exaggeration. Although the colour blue was Silvia’s favorite it was also a two piece bikini which...

But hold on, there was 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 had white colour as a base with cute ribbons as accessories. ''If there was 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 coloured 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 could only be described with the word 'perfect'. The dark red coloured bikini suited 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 then said to her with another mischievous smile:

“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 didn'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 is 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 was 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 was right in front of her and the students who had changed into their colourful swimming wear. In the corner of her eyes… Ash could be seen playing with Jessica on the back of the hydra. In this case… there was 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 2

2018-09-28T10:34:30Z

Foggy glasses: A whole bunch of grammar changes. Plus some restructuring sprinkled throughout..

==Chapter 2 - Rebecca's Dangerous Command==
===Part 1===
After class, Ash anxiously went to the student council’s office. Even though he was worried about Eco who had stayed in the dorm for the entire day, he insisted that he must speak to Rebecca face to face.

"Excuse me!"

Ash walked into the student council’s office without even knocking on the door. Just as he had expected, Rebecca was in the office, sitting on the couch comfortably, drinking her cup of tea. The sweet aroma of the Ansal tea could be smelled. Apart from Rebecca, there were no other students in the office.

"Hi, Ash. I had expected that you’ll show yourself."

Seeing Ash rush into the room, Rebecca smiled.

"What is that about? Why am I also a participant in the Selective Training Camp with those kinds of results......"

"Don’t you worry, please have a seat first before we start talking."

Ash unwillingly sat down opposite of Rebecca. Upon seeing this, Rebecca suddenly patted the empty space next to her.

"Didn't I tell you before that it is more effective to get to know each other when two people are sitting next to each other? This is the iron rule when you are dating."

"...Understood."

Although his current mood had nothing to do with dating, Ash obediently sat next to Rebecca. A refreshing scent wafted from her. It was the perfume that Rebecca loved to use. After Rebecca put her cup down, she looked at Ash. Her emerald-like eyes were reflecting Ash's face.

"Are you so concerned about yourself being selected?"

"Of course, I don’t know why I was even chosen......"

"The Specially Recommended System was only adopted this year. It was evaluated by the student council president, so I choose you. It is just as simple as this."

But upon saying this, Rebecca showed her tongue. This was the first time Ash saw Rebecca's playful look. That cute posture made his heart beat faster.

"To tell you the truth, the person who suggested the Specially Recommended System was me."

"What!? What is your purpose?"

Seeing Ash was dumbfounded, Rebecca calmly placed her hand on his lap and gently stroked his knee. Not only that, her mouth was getting closer to Ash’s ear. Rebecca exhaled on his earlobe, which made Ash shiver.

"Are you forcing me to tell you personally? Of course, it is to allow you to participate in the training camp!"

"W-Why...?"

"By following the previous selection method, an irregular like you will surely not be selected. But you have a genuine talent. To even have the incredible power of riding other people’s Pal.... and to have a special pal is also a fact. Additionally, you defeated the Necromancia and ‘Avdocha the Convicted’. That is why, I insist in letting you participate in the training camp, The Specially Recommended System is used to accomplish this task. "

"So it is really... for me?"

Ash was staring at Rebecca's beauty. ''Am I thinking too much?'' There was also the fact that Rebecca's cheeks were turning red.

"About that... right until now, I never fell in love with any particular boy."

"Huh...?"

"Because no matter how good that boy is, he can never be in the same position as me."

If these words were from the mouth of another girl, it might have sounded arrogant. But since it was Rebecca, it will be an another story. After all, she was a unique Ark-Dragner.

"But whenever I see you... It is a little strange, but I am always looking forward to it. I've never had these feelings. Maybe... I am easily attracted to 'hidden talents'."

Ash was surprised that there were times when Rebecca stuttered. Moreover, she looked like she didn't know how to deal with her feelings.

“W-What you mean... is it?"

Ash's heartbeat was almost at its peak. Rebecca as if leaking her secret, uttered that sentence.

"Can I expect it from you?"

Despite feeling flattered, Ash still had the urge to hug Rebecca tightly. This was the first time Ash had this kind of feelings for Rebecca. Their shoulders leaned closely together. No, it was done intentionally by Rebecca. Since the summer uniform was made from thin material, Ash was able to clearly feel Rebecca's body heat. ''Maybe summer uniforms also has its advantages...'' This was the first time Ash thought so.

"Rebecca-san......!"

Just when Ash was quietly murmuring like he was dreaming-

''-Bang!''

The door was suddenly opened with a loud sound. Meanwhile, two girls who had lost their balance plunged into the office. With a closer look, the two were Silvia and Jessica. Ash quickly stood up from the couch.

"What are you doing!?"

"I-It is not me! It was Jessica who suddenly pushed me...”

Silvia quickly climbed up while rubbing her waist. A while back, she showed her royal dignity which made him admire her a little. But after she had shown her useless side, he felt a little regret.

"Rebecca! I am not gonna let you off easily today!" said Jessica rushing up from the ground.

"There are so many people for you to seduce and you choose my Ash-sama!"

Rebecca replied with a nonchalant look:

"Jessica, you are mistaken. Ash at this stage does not belong to anyone! Logically speaking, I am not seducing him."

"You're lying! The scene just now..."

"Although, I won’t deny that I might like him in the near future..."

After hearing that, Jessica's expression instantly stiffened. It seemed that she never thought that Rebecca would declare war on her in this case. Not only Jessica, even Silvia was also speechlessly staring at Rebecca.

"I actually would like to ask what you two were doing suspiciously behind the door. Since you are in the student council, why not walk in proudly?"

Rebecca retorted with sharp words, which resulted in Silvia and Jessica explaining with a "Uuh!".

"I-I accidentally saw Ash-sama in the corridor and I came to take a look and I found out that Princess was standing at the
doorway..."

Jessica quietly stared at Silvia.

"I-I initially wanted to ask president about issues of the selective training camp, but I saw president and Ash... Err... The
atmosphere was a little embarrassing, so I was embarrassed to come in...

After listening to the two explanations, Rebecca sighed.

"The two of you are a proud members of the student council, at the same time, both of you are participants of the Selective training camp. I hope that you two have some self-respect, and remind yourselves to keep an honest attitude."

"Understood..."

Silvia humbly accepted the advice, but Jessica refuted.

"Hmph! Rebecca are you in any position to make those irresponsible remarks? I wonder who was the girl who embraced Ash-sama on the student council’s office's sofa? If Her Royal Highness and I had not broke in, God knows at what stage you will be progressing!"

"Ara, such attitude. I'm happy to talk about the trouble you made in your childhood right here? Anyhow you are my childhood playmate. Well, there were many things that could become the topic."

Despite the smile made by the smooth lips, Rebecca's eyes did not show any smiling sign. Like an eagle forcing its prey into its beak, they were bursting out with dazzling light.

"Eek...!"

Her previous arrogance disappeared. Jessica who turned pale was sweating profusely.

"I-It was my b-bad."

"Hmm, it is good to admit you are wrong honestly."

When Rebecca was answering while smiling- someone frantically rushed in through the opened door.

"President! Something is very wrong...!"

It was Max, who was in charge of the accounts. Perhaps he was running at full speed along the way because he was out of breath. He didn't even notice that his spectacle was not in the right place. How urgent was the situation for the calm Max to become this way? Ash was also feeling very tense since the city had been full of disaster recently, .

"What happened, Max? To be panicked to this extent is not your style."

The student council president was sure to be very experienced, Rebecca was still calm even after seeing Max's expression. She was calmly waiting for Max to reply.

"W-We received a report... there is smoke emerging from the Merk House of the women's dormitory-!"

"Is it a small fire?"

"The details are unclear. But, the smoke is suspected to be emerging from Lucca Sarlinen's room......"

Upon hearing Lucca Sarlinen’s name, Rebecca face became pale.

"I'll leave for Merk house... In my name Rebecca Randall I order! Respond to my summon, Cú Chulainn-"

The next moment, Maestro Cú Chulainn who responded to Rebecca’s summoning spell appeared in front of the window.

===Part 2===
Rebecca stood on Cú Chulainn's neck heroically, but Ash, Silvia and Jessica were struggling to cling on to its fur. Because Max was almost out of breath, he was left behind in the Student Council’s office. The other reason was that it would not be appropriate to leave the office empty when an emergency situation had occurred. In the end, there was no need for such a large group of people to march forth to the scene. As long as Rebecca was dealing with it personally, she was sure to come up with the most appropriate solution.

However, after Rebecca and Ash jumped on Cú Chulainn, a strange thing happened. Silvia and Jessica also stepped on the window and jumped. After giving a wry smile, Rebecca immediately changed back to her serious looks.

"Take us to the Merk house!"

After receiving Rebecca’s orders, Cú Chulainn gave an earth shattering roar and spread its wings. Ash and the rest just felt a floating sensation and a strong pressure. The Merk house, which took twenty minutes
to walk to, was right in front of them in the blink of an eye. The Merk house was designed as the accommodation for the basic class female students. Unsurprisingly, the outside of the dormitory was packed with girls. They should be the ones who escaped after finding out about the smoke. The girls screamed after they saw Rebecca jump down from Cú Chulainn. The Student council president Rebecca Randall had always been regarded as an idol by the low-grade students.

"We are from the student council! Is the warden here?"

After Rebecca stated her name loudly, an old lady walked towards her.

"Is Lucca still in her room?"

Rebecca quickly asked and the warden nodded.

"That’s right. The other students called her several times, but she didn’t respond...."

According to the warden, the conclusion were as follows-

Not long before, the students living on the same floor as Lucca discovered smoke coming out from her room. If such an event occurred in the advance class dormitory, the advance class students would have had a way to calmly handle it. However, the lower class students who were still mentally immature, were shocked by the unexpected events. Their fear spread like an epidemic and it finally become a commotion. The warden said that she had gotten a headache just by trying to get the panicking girls to safety. Logically speaking, she should have the spare key to open Lucca's room, but she was busy with some other stuff. The warden who finished speaking handed over the silver keys to Rebecca.

"This is the spare key to Lucca-san's room.”

"I understand. Please stay here and take care of the students."

After receiving the key, she started to run. Ash and the others followed behind Rebecca. On the way there, Ash asked Rebecca.

"Rebecca-san... I would like to ask what kind of problem the girl named Lucca Sarlinen is facing."

Perhaps this was not an important enough question for them to talk about while running. But even the calm Rebecca had mobilized Cú Chulainn to rush to the Merk house after she heard Lucca's name. It meant that the situation right now was not some small matter.

"She is now being severely tortured because she as a Dragner lost her ability to ride her Pal... Although she gave excuses like being unwell; in fact, the problem is much more serious. Since she was unable to ride her Pal, she secluded herself in her dormitory. Recently, there were many students who began to show concern about Lucca's problem."

"I see...."

It was not rare for a breeder to be unable to ride his Pal. For example, illnesses, injuries, etc and many other strange things could be the reason. At the school assembly, "That rumor" that Raymond said could be this.

“Don’t tell me that because she couldn’t ride, and thus…”

An ominous possibility brushed through Ash's mind.

"That's not impossible... no one can guarantee anything, that’s why I’m so anxious."

After finishing this sentence, Rebecca kept silent. The group rushed into the dorm, walked down the hallway and climbed the stairs. Soon, Rebecca stopped in front of a door. It was located at the end of the corridor on the third floor. The name list beside the door showed only the name Lucca Sarlinen. The basic class dormitory was generally a three person bedroom, but it appeared that she was living alone. Leaving the question aside, the main focus was on the source of the smoke. In fact, some visible white smoke could be seen floating out from the cracks around the door. Compared to the big commotion, the amount of smoke could only be regarded as insignificant.

"Lucca! Answer me!"

Rebecca knocked on the door, but there still wasn't any response from inside.

"I’m going to open the door!"

Rebecca put the key in the keyhole. With some 'rattling' sound of metal, the door unlocked. Once the door was opened, the white smoke poured into the corridor. Rebecca entered the room followed by Ash. Most of the smoke drifted into the corridor after the door was opened.

Ash looked around the room. The room was cramped with all kinds of dried plants, which did not look like a girl's room. To force a description, this was more like a pharmacist’s workroom. To Ash's surprise, in addition to the furniture that the dormitory provided, the room also had some working tables. They must have been Lucca's private property.

In the center of the room, there was a low round table, which was of a design that wasn't normally seen in the Knight Country and the Kingdom. In addition, the surprising number of flower pots made the others curious. Flower pots were lined from the wall side to the window side of the room. Each flower pot contained plants that Ash had never seen before. The reason why she could have this amazingly large number of personal belongings in a room was that she was using a room for three alone. Although there was a double bed and a single bed by the wall, they were used to place her stuff.

"Lucca!"

Just when Rebecca shouted the room’s owner’s name...

Ash was shocked by what he saw. A girl suspected to be Lucca was lying in the middle of the room. The problem was, Lucca's body was lying in a container that looked like a coffin. The base of the container was covered with a layer of soft flowers. Her hands were also folded over her chest.

The only words that could be used to describe Lucca were- it was her corpse. <ref>this sentence is originally short and made is seems like it is a dead body</ref>

"It can’t be...?"

Silvia and Jessica rushed past Ash who was muttering towards the side of the coffin.

After witnessing Lucca's appearance, Silvia and Jessica froze. At that point...

"Fyuaa..."

Followed by a cute yawn, the body slowly sat up. Even though it had a sleepy look, Ash was almost scared out of his skin. She was like a Fairy from the fairy tales. Her whitish gold straight hair was shoulder length. Beneath the neatly trimmed fringes were a pair of mysterious big amethyst-like watery shining eyes. Her skin was like white porcelain, to which normal whiteness couldn't be compared with. On the surface, she looked like an exquisite doll. Her petite height was no different from Eco. But she gave a feeling of a dreamy easily breakable object, which was different from the lively Eco. The most important feature, were those protruding ears that could be seen sticking out from her beautiful hair. Even the tip of her ear was pointy. Ash had long ago heard about the existence of this race, but until today, it was the first time he actually saw one.

"...Anything?"

Facing a group of stunned people, Lucca lazily looked at the faces around while speaking with a clear voice.

===Part 3===
Lucca put out the flames in the incense burner one by one and the smoke in the room slowly dissipated. The smoke seemed to be produced by burning a special bright dragon crystal so it was harmless. The students outside had returned to their rooms after the situation had settled down.

"To put it bluntly, the smoke was produced in the incense burner."

Lucca answered Rebecca questions. With her back facing the crowd, she covered the final incense burner’s lid. While looking at Lucca's small ass, Ash became surprised. The shape of her hips could be seen through the one-piece pajamas. But right now, the focus was not on the traces of her underwear.

''-Is she...?''

Just when Ash was troubled about where he was looking, Lucca turned around and faced the rest.

"I'm sorry to give you all a shock."

Lucca was sitting on her heels<ref>正座 Seiza, a formal way of sitting.</ref> and respectfully apologize by bowing down. Her every move made people worry. Describing this in another way, she was the kind of person who would provoke the urge of others to protect her unconditionally.

"You need not apologize. It is enough as long as you're safe. But please do not light so much incense in the future, otherwise the others students could think that it was a fire."

Lucca nodded humbly while Rebecca was reminding her.

"....Rebecca's words have always been right. I will try to pay more attention next time.”

"Come on, must you make the scene to look so deserted! Besides, what is that coffin about?"

"Coffin...? You are wrong. This is an Eckbald styled bed. It can be used directly in funerals; its features are very good."
[[Image:SnRK V03 057.jpg|thumb]]

"Sure enough, that’s a coffin! I can no longer bear with you, do you think as long as you give others a dreamy feel, you will be forgiven regardless of what you do? Without mentioning the rest, while facing your senpai, don’t you think that your tone of speaking is a little rude!"

"That’s enough! Lucca had always been timid and she is not like you. Don’t be too hard on her."

Jessica was angered after being scolded by Rebecca.

"Wha… I am as timid as most people are!"

Although Ash thought that she was speaking that way to make herself feel better, but it was better for him not to comment on anything.

"Excuse me, Jessica. Please be a little quiet."

Even Silvia also tried to correct Jessica this time.

"Back to the topic, president, could you ask her to re-introduce herself? After all, apart from you, all of us here have just met her for the
first time."

Rebecca nodded while smiling at Silvia’s proposal.

"Hmm, what a good idea. Lucca please introduce yourself."

Even when Rebecca asked her to self-introduce, Lucca remained silent. Her head kept on facing downwards with a timid appearance. In the end-

“I’ll make some tea.”

She suddenly stood up and hid in the kitchen. Seeing Lucca had left, Rebecca smiled.

"She is still the same and has always been shy. I will introduce her in her place. As you had known, she is called Lucca Sarlinen. She had such an uncommon name because she is an Eckbald."

-Eckbald

Commonly known as the ‘forest Yōsei '. Since ancient times they had lived in the forest, a race with beautiful looks. By looking at Lucca's appearance, you would be able to know that the ‘forest Yōsei ' description fit very well. Their pointed ears were exactly the same as the Yōsei from the fairy tales. Apart from their beautiful looks, they were also famous for their herbology. The efficiency of the herbs made by the Eckbald was acknowledged by people around the world and the market price for them was always high. However, the most important feature of an Eckbald was neither their beautiful appearance, nor their profound knowledge of herbs.

-But as a heroic race of Dragners.

That was the reason why the Eckbalds were called Eckbald. Why was there the need to use the past tense? Because today, the heroic legend of the Eckbalds had become the legends of yesterday. Written in the history textbooks, because of the declining of the Dragons, the number of people who became a breeder had also declined. At that moment, Rebecca suddenly lowered down her voice and whispered.

"Currently, Lucca is the only Eckbald in this academy. That is why all the Eckbalds in the Eckbald autonomous regions have high hopes for Lucca. But, I have to say that some of those people’s thinking are behind time..."

"Behind time?" Silvia looked confused.

"Nn... they harbor a strong admiration over the Dragner. Since the Dragners were ordered to be involved in the Xenoglavia War, their thinking had been behind time. There are now many parents praying for their children to not become a Dragner. Especially the more affluent their family is and it is getting more and more serious. After all, most parents do not want their child to be ordered into the battlefield. "

"This issue really is no trivial matter! I really want to interrogate those people, for those who lost their admiration for the Dragners, can they call themselves the people of the Knight country!"

"Uuh... Princess? The focus is now on Lucca!"

Being reminded by Ash, Silvia blushed.

"S-Sorry, I’m a little too excited."

Silvia immediately controlled her temper.

"In short, even when bearing such a heavy burden, she was eventually just a fourteen year old girl. I hope she can get rid of the shackles of her family and happily enjoy her campus life, so please be sure to get along with Lucca."

When Rebecca summed up this conclusion-

"... Sorry, it is just some simple tea."

Lucca was back with a tray. On the tray, there were cups which were equal to the number of people. There was also hot white smoke coming from the cups. Since it was summer, they would like to drink some cold drinks instead of tea, but they couldn't complain about what she had specially made for them. Lucca placed the hot teas on the low round table.

Ash was slightly not used to it. Because he experienced drinking tea while sitting on the ground. However, since Eco's birth, Ash had been sleeping on the ground, so he could still accept the idea of drinking tea on the ground. Rebecca on the other hand was very relaxed. However, Silvia and Jessica couldn't seem to accept the habit of sitting on the ground, They sat on the bed while holding their hot tea. Although the beds were also filled with debris, they still managed to squeeze out a space for two girls.

Ash also took a cup of hot tea. Judging from the rugged shape, this cup should have been made personally. It was probably an item from her hometown. The thing that made the others worry was the steaming dark green liquid in the cups. Maybe it was mixed with various herbs; the liquid exuded a strong smell. Ash casually turned around for a glance and found out that Rebecca was already drinking. The way she was drinking could be called heroic.

"That, I would like to ask... What tea is this?"

After being asked by Ash, Lucca held her cup and stayed silent for a moment. For such a simple question, why did she even need to think? Ash
became increasingly uneasy.

"This tea was created by me... so it has no name. But I'm sure that it has the effect for enhancing one’s energy after drinking."

"The effect… Of enhancing one’s energy...!"

After listening to Lucca’s description Jessica reacted. She shoved her cup of tea at Ash and looked at him with a pair of pleading eyes.

"I beg you, Ash-sama! Please drink my share! Then please give me your sperm!"

"How could you say such shameless words....! Don’t you have some shame? Any sense of shame!

Silvia who was red in the face commented on Jessica.

"Ara, why does Princess want to even bother with me?"

"It is because you're too shameless! As a lady of the Knight Country, can’t you show some modesty!"

"Is it really just because of this...?"

"O-Otherwise is there any other reason?"

While the two kept on quarreling, Ash on the other side had made up his mind to finish it as if he was drinking poison.

''Glup...''

Ash felt like he was drinking mud and just barely managed to keep himself from spitting it out.

Silvia and Jessica also tried to follow. But they both looked a lot healthier before they started drinking. Only Rebecca alone was unaffected...

"Anyway, Lucca. How are you now?"

"It seems that I still can’t." answered Lucca dejectedly.

"That... I heard that you seemed to have lost the ability to ride your Pal. Do you have any clue for the reason it happened?"

Ash asked with a calm tone and Lucca murmured.

"...I do not know, but I have not forgotten the riding method."

"Otherwise, what else could it be?"

"It is... Gawain is rejecting me."

After a simple explanation, Lucca remained silent. Perhaps she lacked emotions, her face was as expressionless as a doll. So Rebecca answered the questions in Lucca's place.

"Gawain had been rejecting Lucca for three months. Until now, we are yet to find a solution to this problem."

"Since the reason is still unknown, it is no wonder that nothing can be done. So we can only wait and see how will it progress, no?"

Jessica looked disappointed.

"No, the problem mustn’t continue to drag on."

Rebecca suddenly became serious.

"The point is, the Astral that links Lucca and Gawain had been cut off. If we continue to wait, then Gawain’s life would be in danger."

This sudden development made Ash speechless.

===Part 4===
After leaving the Merk house and breaking up from the group of student council members, Ash went to the city alone. He intended to buy crepes for Eco as an apology for coming home late because it was Eco’s favorite food. The works in St Durham Square had been successfully completed and the crowds there were back like the old times. Ash soon found a street vendor selling crepes, and asked the vendor to wrap up the vanilla flavored crepes in a wrapping paper.

Written on notice given out by the vendor was the message about a new chocolate banana flavored crepe that was going to be launched. ''I must tell Eco about this when I return''- Ash while thinking so, walked back to his home.

===Part 5===
Back on the school grounds, after passing by the dragon homes, Ash again began to think about Lucca’s problem.

''-Astral.''

It was a must substance for the creatures on this planet to sustain their life. It was said that, Astral was the main reason for the declining of the Dragons.

Even the great Dragons couldn't supply Astral to their bodies themselves. Thanks to the connection between the humans who were rich in Astral since birth, the dragons were able to survive.

According to Rebecca, Gawain's body was getting weaker by the day. It was now eating food with high content of Astral to survive... The problem was that the content of Astral in the food was very little. If the dragons could survive through this method, then they would not need to bow down to the humans.

''Is there anything that I can be of help...?'' Ash was thinking deeply. Lucca was now being tested as a breeder and as a Dragner. The reason she was shutting herself in was mainly because of the pressure.

...In the end, Ash had returned to the boys’ dormitory, the Apollo home before he could come up with a method.

===Part 6===
It was evening. Eco had passed her day alone in the room of the Apollo home. Except, Cosette who was worried about her and had visited her for a few times, she hadn't spoken to anyone. Fortunately, the summer sun was very strong and the cushions and sheets that Eco wet were completely dried. Eco, who usually let Ash do the housework alone, had brought in the clothes on her own. This was also her first attempt to make her bed. Although the results can only be considered so-so, but she still had completed it. Eco lay down on the bed lazily. The air was full of the smell of the sun.

"............"

The embarrassment of wetting her bed this morning had left a scar in her heart. For the highly noble dragon to wet her bed, this was unforgivable. After all, how could she do something so embarrassing?

"That dream... What is it about?"

Yes, the culprit was the ominous nightmare. The nine fiercely frightening eyes. The sticky tentacles that was all over. Just by recalling them in her mind, Eco's body was trembling with fear. She crawled out from the bed and quickly locked the door and windows. Even when it was a hot day, she still took out the fur blankets for the closet. Next, Eco was back to the bed and covered her whole body with the blanket.

Her limbs were madly trembling. ''I’m scared. I’m really scared. Why would I be frightened to this extend?''

''By the way... Before I woke up, the thing seems to say something.''

''It seems to be a very important, but...''

"...I really can’t remember anything."

Eco rolled over while being wrapped in the blanket. After rolling left and right for a while, she became angry.

"Damn him...! Why is he not back yet?"

Eco started to complain about Ash. Logically speaking, the school had finished but Ash has still not yet returned. He should have been taken away by the student council as a slave.

''-Why doesn’t he even think that I had been waiting for him to come home for a long time!''

Right at this moment, Eco suddenly came to her senses.

"No, no! I-I didn’t... Who will wait for that type of person!"

Her cheeks were red hot. Eco told herself that she had misunderstood; her cheeks were hot because of the blanket that she had been covering herself with. It was not because of Ash’s absence she had become lonely. She had just become a little timid because of that nightmare. Having said that, Eco inevitably still thought that, if Ash had rushed home immediately, she wouldn't need to be afraid... Moreover, they were linked together by the Astral. They were partners who signed the sacred contract. Logically speaking, it was their right to accompany each other. In other words, Ash is the one who should be condemned!

Just when Eco came to that conclusion... someone with a'' 'Kon Kon' '' knocked at the door.

"......!"

Eco literally, jumped up on the spot.

===Part 7===
Ash was confused because there was no reply after he knocked the door.

"Where had that Eco run to...?"

Just as Ash reluctantly reached into his pocket to pull out his keys, the door suddenly sprang open.

"It hurts!"

Because his forehead was hit by the door, he was now in pain. Then Eco, like a cannon ball, rushed to him from the room.

"Uwaa!"

Ash fell to the ground after the impact. His Crepes also fell to the ground. Because of the lightning speed Eco also fell into Ash's arms. The feel of her soft skin was passed through the thin summer clothing.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash asked in surprise, but Eco refused to answer even a word. She just buried her face in his chest. Whenever she exhaled on his chest, Ash became nervous. For Eco to show such attitude, Ash began to worry about her.

"D-Don’t tell me you are drunk? Didn’t I tell you a few times already to not touch the Ansal grass?"

After talking to her in a stern tone, Eco finally replied.

"....Right, I'm drunk. What complaint do you have about it?"

It was rare for Eco to talk in such ambiguous tone.

"Eco...?"

Even while she verbally declared herself to be "drunk", Eco was obviously awake. If she was really drunk, the things that she would do would not be limited to this extent. Fortunately, there were no other students in the corridor right now. So Ash could temporarily condone Eco’s behavior. Eco’s forehead was next to Ash's chest and her body was trembling without control. She was almost like a child. What could she possibly be frightened by? Though Ash still could not understand why she was so frightened, he still put his hand on her head to comfort her.

"Rest assured, I am here."

The two of them hugged each other for quite some time. After a long while, Eco finally stopped trembling.

===Part 8===
After a while, Eco released Ash and flew back into the room.

"Uuu ~ ~!"

She seemed to be troubled. Perhaps embarrassed by her own actions just now, Ash felt that her every movement was very entertaining. The most surprising thing was that she actually took the initiative to make the bed. Even that deserved a praise, but still the work done couldn't be something called good. But still, Ash was glad from the bottom of his heart. Because of that push, Eco could now automatically do the house chores.

“That’s right; I had bought some snacks for you." smiled Ash cheekily while placing a bag of Crepes on Eco’s hands.

"This is the vanilla flavored crepes. It is your favorite, right?"

Once said, Eco’s stomach growled loudly. Perhaps it was rude to describe the sound was earth-shattering, but the way it sounded could only be made by a dragon. Eco suddenly blushed.

"M-My favorite flavor is Ansal!"

Then she snappily said as if to cover up the embarrassment. Looking at Eco who was finally back to her usual reactions, Ash finally calmed down. Eco, as if she had risen to heaven, tore out the wrapping papers. Although the shapes had changed because they were dropped on the floor just now, but Eco didn't even mind one bit and just gave it a bite.

"How does it taste?"

Eco didn’t answer. She could be seen with her mouth stuffed with crepes and stay motionless.

"....Anything?"

Without warning, there were tears dripping from her eyes which made Ash panic.

"Hey hey, does it really taste so bad to the point you need to cry?"

"That’s not it..."

Eco shook her head and silently ate the crepes.

===Part 9===
Eco who ate three crepes alone sat on the bed and quietly explained the whole story.

"This morning ... I had a dream."

"What dream?"

"A horrible nightmare... It seems that I was attacked by a Necromancia. It stretched it’s tentacles towards m-me... The reason that I wet the bed... I am afraid it is because of this."

Eco shivered and grabbed her shoulders with both hands. It must be terrifying in her dream. Ash wanted to try helping Eco to overcome her fear. After a deep thought, he finally stretched out his trembling hand and move towards her shoulders from behind. He then gently held those glass-like shoulders. Not only did Eco not refuse, but she was also relieved and leaned her body on Ash’s. This is the first time Ash saw her to be so cute and docile. Under such warmth, his heart was racing.

"The Necromancia had been beaten by us! You need not fear it!"

"No, it wasn't Necromancia." said Eco feebly shaking her head.

"It true that the monster looked like Necromancia... but it is not the same. That monster... is not something that can be defeated easily, not to mention it has nine eyes."

Nine eyes. Just imagining it will give people the creeps.

"How should it describe it... it was gigantic and its look was unknown... it is absolutely the incarnation of evil. And.... the most incredible thing is that though I shouldn't have recognized that monster... I feel that we have encountered each other several times before."

"How could that be? If you came in contact with such a dangerous monster, I would have found out. After all, we live under the same roof."

"I guess you're right."

"It was just a dream. I advise you not to think too much about it."

"But..."

Eco looked unusually depressed. At this time, what should I do? While clutching Eco’s shoulder, Ash was secretly thought.

...... The memories of his hometown suddenly surfaced.

Ash has a sister. When she was a child, she often came crying to Ash complaining about her nightmare. Whenever she had a nightmare, his sister would sneak into his room. Ash could still remember his sister hugging his personal pillow while crying. Once Ash agreed to let his sister squeeze into his bed, she murmured while half crying and half laughing, "I’m no longer scared”..

''-I know what to do!''

Ash had made up his decision and was ready to perform tonight's operation.

===Part 10===
Once it was time for lights-out, the students in the dormitory put out the Bright Dragon Crystal lights. Ash was no exception. If he was to be caught with the lights on, he will be lambasted by the warden. Eco as usual was lying on the bed naked. He will sleep on the same bed with Eco tonight- this was Ash’s plan. However once it is time, all he could think about was Eco’s naked body. To build up the courage to sneak into a naked girl’s bed, it was near impossible. However, today’s Eco couldn't be compared with her past. The Eco now was a poor frightened girl who had a nightmare.

As long as he considered her as his sister, there would be no longer any problem. Even when she was naked the room was still dark. If he didn't focus his thought on this, then this problem would be immediately solved. After Ash ensured himself, he crawled out from the futon from the floor. With a pillow under his arm, he walked towards the side of the bed.

"Please excuse me!"

After a slight notice, Ash got into the empty space next to Eco. The thin summer blanket felt somewhat nice and warm because of Eco’s body temperature. The only thing is, make sure not to touch Eco’s naked body

"W-What are you doing? What are you up to!"

Once she discovered Ash climbed on the bed, with a look of horror, Eco rushed to keep their distance.

"Do not worry. I’ll stay with you for tonight."

"What?"

Ash was confused. He did not expect such a response from Eco. He thought that she would be grateful. His confidence that he previously built up was collapsing.

"Err, I just want to accompany you while sleeping so you’ll no longer wet the bed-"

"....What did you say?"

Eco slowly sat up. Although the room was too dark to see Eco’s naked body...... but her curves could still be seen. But now was not the time to feel nervous. It was now an alarming situation. And Ash’s instinct was now ringing.

"Do you really think...? I might commit the same embarrassment?"

Eco's voice trembled. She was apparently very furious about it. When Ash found out that he had spoken the wrong thing, it was already too late to take it back.

"Err-err... In short please calm down first. I didn't meant anything bad for saying those things-"

Unfortunately, Ash failed to finish his sentence.

"Don’t get carried away!”

With a ''‘Donk!’'', he was hit by a violent kick.

''‘Gwak!’''

Ash as if being hit by a hammer was knocked back for quite a distance. Fortunately, he fell on his futon and at least he was avoided from feeling the pain for being hit directly on the floor.

"Hmph!"

After Eco snappily grunted, she lay back on her bed. It seemed that Ash made a huge mistake. But having said that, since she had the spirit to cause such a fuss, perhaps she had gotten rid of the nightmare. At least, Eco who sent Ash flying with a kick was back to her formal self.

===Part 11===
The next day after school...

President Rebecca, Silvia of Discipline, Max of Accounting and as the replacement for the secretary, Ash and Jessica of General Affairs as well as the mascot Eco were gathered in the Student Council’s office.

Secretary Lucca and the vice president who was like a genius from the outer world were also absent today. Perhaps last night's incident had a positive effect; Eco was back to her old self. She wore a summer uniform borrowed from Cosette and attended the meeting as if she had something to do with it. Eco’s duty was just simply playing the role of a mascot which had no need to attend meetings, but she was back to her old-self who didn't let anyone to leave her by the side. Of course Eco’s well-behaved attitude yesterday was full of charm, but the lively Eco still suited her best suited her. Ash believed so.

"Today's topic is on the student council secretary, Lucca Sarlinen."

Rebecca looked around at the faces with her sharp eyes.

"Sooner or later she would become the soul to lead the school. But right now she should not be troubled by this obstacle. I personally strongly hope to solve the problem as soon as possible and take her to participate in the training camp."

The first person to respond to this was Jessica.

"I can understand that you are worried about her, but what can we do to help? I think that it is better to hand this problem for Angela-sensei to handle..."

Angela anyhow was the research authority for dragons. She should have the ability to teach in the highest institution and was extremely talented. Ash also agreed with Jessica’s views.

"Unfortunately, I had discussed with Angela-sensei about it. Basically, the person who is responsible for finding out that the astral between Lucca and Gawain had been cut off was none other that Angela-sensei."

"Based on Angela-sensei's judgment, what is the cause of it?"

Once Ash asked, Rebecca shrugged her shoulders.

"It seems that she also can do nothing about it."

"How could...!"

For those who did research on the dragons, there is almost not one who is in the same league as Angela. When the well versed Angela couldn't do anything, what help would the student council be?

"The situation is indeed desperate, but we cannot just stand aside idly. If it goes on like this, sooner or later it would be a certain death for Gawain who will run out of Astral."

Those heavy words made Ash shudder again.

"All of you are elite students; do you have any good suggestion?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hands.

"In times like this, we should ask ‘Silver Knight’-sama to make his appearance! No matter how difficult the situation is, ‘Silver Knight’-sama can use his wisdom, courage and magic to solve them! Right, Ash-sama! "

"The ‘Silver Knight’ that you are talking about is the one in the novel, right? To confuse him with me would be a little too..."

"Waa... Even the humble Ash-sama looks handsome!"

Jessica was not bothered by the presence of others and hugged Ash’s head tightly. Because Ash was sitting on the chair, his face sunk into Jessica’s breast.

"...Uwaa!"

In contrast to her slender waist, Jessica's breast were rather large. The breasts changed their shape softly and had covered Ash’s cheek.

"Wait a minute! This guy is my meat slave! If you dare to continue to stick to him, I’ll have you crushed!"

Upon seeing this, Eco immediately suddenly stood up. Incidentally, the ‘meat slave’ here had absolutely no indecent meaning. It meant to supply its master with food when its master was hungry.

"T-To have such unsightly behavior in the sacred student council office... As a knight, you should have known that there must be a distance between men and women! This is the Lautreamont family’s rules!"

Even Silvia was also feeling angry and stood up straight.

"Enough!."

Fortunately, Rebecca intervened to prevent anything bad from happening.

Silvia and Jessica returned to their seats. Perhaps Eco instinctively sensed some danger coming from Rebecca, she obediently sat down and didn't even dare to say a thing.

"Jessica, can’t you calm down a little?"

Rebecca warned by calling her name, but Jessica just snappily answered.

"Hmph... You only know how to complain about others, what about yourself? You only know how to seek opinions from others and didn't even give your own views...... you are not acting like Rebecca Randall. Or is it that even the ‘Scarlet Empress’ is also unable to do anything?"

"My idea? It is not that I don’t have any, but it is risky."

"Risky... what do you mean?"

Jessica was surprised. Somehow, Rebecca gave a stabbing like look to Ash. Her emerald eyes were intently staring straight at him which almost stopped his heartbeat.

"Ash, you are said to be able to ride all dragons. Even the Necromancia is no exception, right?'

"Rebecca... san?"

Ash gulped, waiting for Rebecca to give out her order.

"Go and ride Gawain."

"What did you say!"

"When you were riding the Necromancia, you sensed its will, right?"

"Uh... just faintly."

The memories resurfaced. In fact, Ash had heard the dead grey dragon speak. Even though it had happened at the beginning of last month, Ash still felt like it had happened for a long time.

"So, I hope you can use the same technique on Gawain. Gawain might be willing to open his heart to you."

Ash remembered about Lucca. Even when yesterday was a weekday, she hid herself in her room in broad daylight, wearing pajamas. Perhaps she was poor in expressing her emotions; she didn't look as if she was greatly depressed. However, she should have received a huge blow. Maybe, this has a thing or two that was related to the Eckbald.

''-I want to save her.'' thought Ash sincerely.

''Is it because I am her senior in the same school? Is it because that we are fellow breeder? A Student council's member’s responsibility?''

Those reasons could not be denied. However, even if those factors were to be cast aside, Ash just couldn't sit back and watch a helpless girl to continue languish. Ash decided to obey his feelings deep inside.

"I understand. I am willing to gamble for it."

"Thank you for your cooperation. Then, the task is scheduled to be performed after school tomorrow-"

===Part 12===
The next day, the ringing of the noon bell also signified that the school had ended for the rest of the day. Because there was a staff meeting in the afternoon, they only had classes for the morning session.

“Kuu… Kuu…”

Eco, who sneaked into the classroom today, occupied the seat next to Ash. Like usual, she was lying on the table fast asleep. Even when
the bell had rung, she still didn’t have signs of waking up.

"I... really don’t know how to deal with her."

Since she wanted to sleep that much, there really was no need to come to the classroom... Ash secretly complained. Leaving the issue aside, Eco’s sleeping face was like an angel. Every time he saw her sleeping face, his heart became soft and forgave her usual bad behavior. Even Ash himself felt strange. Looking at her soft face, Ash suddenly had the thought of poking her.

"-To be peeking at a girl’s sleeping face, you really have a low taste."

For someone to suddenly speak from behind, Ash almost jumped.

"Princess?"

Many students who had begun to pack up and go home, gave a surprised look at Silvia. For her to start a conversation with someone in the classroom was like the sun rising from the west. Silvia was not bothered by the rest and continued to just stare at Ash. Her ice blue coloured eyes were as if they are gently swaying.

"Do you really intend to ride... Gawain?"

"Why ask me this question now?"

"B-Because..."

Silvia looked aside, suddenly revealing an anxious look. Silvia who was usually noble and acted highly, somehow looked very cute as she suddenly blushed.

"Well, that... I-I just..."

"Just?"

"N-Nothing! Just don’t try too hard! In the end, this is Lucca and Gawain’s problem. If you intervene and result in a heavy injury... I
will never forgive you! "

Silvia finished her confusing talk, she suddenly turned around and walk off. Her gorgeous shiny blonde hair swayed gently with the wind. Leaving a faint fragrance, Silvia marched out of the classroom.

"She... What is she angry about?"

Ash watched Silvia’s back blankly.

===Part 13===
The top floor in the center tower in the campus. While facing the student council members who gathered in the student council office, Rebecca announced loudly:

"So, I’ll announce your work today, I’ll first go to the Seventh Dragon House and explain it to the staffs, Max is responsible to look for Angela-sensei, because basically we must have a teacher to be present while doing the job. Ash, Eco, Silvia, Jessica are to meet with Lucca. Are there any other questions?"

Jessica was the first to raise her hand and comment.

"To fetch Lucca over, a person is enough."

"Do not underestimate her. Just to just drag her out of her room, should cause enough trouble for you. She is an absolute indoor type<ref>This is the original text, a direct translation.</ref>, it is just that this incident had intensified her symptoms."

After listening to Rebecca's answer, Jessica sighed.

"Haa.. I understand. We will take responsibility to bring her out. Princess also doesn't have any problems with this, right?...
Princess?"

Silvia seemed like she had just come out of her trance and raised her head to reply:

"Ah, ahh.... Understood."

Since she had spoken those confusing words in the classroom, Silvia looked lost. This made Ash worry endlessly

"So I’ll be waiting for everyone to report in the Seventh Dragon House. Members report. Kaisan!" <ref>解散Kaisan it means to disband the meeting in a commanding tone.</ref>

===Part 14===
"Lucca-san... Lucca-san! Are you in there! Please answer me!"

Jessica was shouting while knocking. But there was no response.

"Don’t know what had happened to her?"

Jessica stiffened her face, while looking at Ash and the rest. It seemed that she was not certain on what she was going to do next. Eco who lost patience, impatiently lifted her feet.

"For a paper thin door like this, why don’t we just-"

Eco intended to use her abnormal dragon strength to break the door.

"Hold on!"

Ash quickly stopped Eco.

"Do you know who is going to pay for it after you break them! Please do not do anything necessary!"

"Hey! How dare you try to order me when it is obviously me who is taking care of you? Meat slave!"

"Who is your meat slave!"

"What are you arguing about...?"

Silvia who arrived a little later was dumbfounded when Ash and Eco were quarreling. Silvia was holding a silver key.

"I guessed that might be the case, so I borrowed a spare key from the warden."

"Just what is expected of our princess."

Jessica took the key and inserted it into the key hole.

"Lucca-san I am going to open the door!"

The door opened with a ‘''Click''’ and Jessica marched into the room. Sure enough, Lucca was fast asleep in her coffin. Although the room was filled with the smell of incense like yesterday, she seemed to have followed Rebecca's instruction to control the amount of smoke.

"I don’t really get her... to be sleeping in broad daylight."

After Jessica complained, she pulled back the half-opened curtains. The noon sunlight had filled the room.

"Uuu... Nnn... Stop... I’m going to melt..."

Lucca muttered and then rolled over. The hem of her one-piece pajamas lifted up and her snow-white lower body was exposed.

"......!"

Lucca was without her panties. Ash saw her small and rounded hips. On her ass was her Seikoku - the contract with the dragons.

"Hey! I forbid you from staring!"

Silvia grabbed Ash's head and twisted it regardless.

"Ash-sama you mustn't peek! If you like hips this much, then it is fine for you to look at mine!"

On the other hand, Jessica was lecturing something that was off topic to him while helping Lucca with her pajamas.

"Uuu..."

At that time, Lucca finally woke up and like an electric doll slowly sat up. Then, with her dreamy eyes, she looked around with a shocked expression..

"....Who are you?"

"We just met yesterday!" commented Ash. She really was a perverse girl.

Logically speaking, anyone will get a shock when some stranger walks into their room. But, she was completely unmoved. Is this a behavior of an Eckbald or Lucca's own- ''It feels like the latter, or else the Eckbald would have perished long ago''.

"Ah, I remember. You are Johnny?"

"Who is Johnny! That name has nothing to do with me. I am Ash, Ash!"

"S-Sorry."

Lucca disappointedly lowered her shoulders.

"Hey! This is outrageous. How dare you bully a girl from a lower grade! Buzz off!"

Silvia who looked flustered stepped forward. She with her golden thread-like hair and highly tone ordered her without any explanation.

"Lucca Sarlinen we need cooperation from you and Gawain. We will immediately head to the Seventh Dragon House, please get ready."

Lucca looked straight into Silvia's face as if she was going to pierce a hole in her face. After a long while, Lucca murmured:

"Who are you?"

“Wha…!”

After hearing that, Silvia turned pale. She probably didn't expect someone from this school to not recognize Silvia Lautreamont the fourth princess from the Knights royal family. She moved around unsteadily as if she had suffered a knock, while muttering facing the wall.

"T-There is a student who does not recognize me... Is my presence such unimportant... Am I not fit to be a royal... I'm ashamed to face Onee-sama who came here to motivate me..."

"That, Princess are you okay?"

Jessica rushed to Silvia’s side. While letting Jessica to comfort Silvia, the hope was now on Ash and Eco. Regardless of anything, they must drag her out from her bed to the Seventh Dragon House. At this time, Lucca seemed to have a strong interest in Eco. She suddenly clung to her waist tightly.

“Huh…!”

Eco who was attacked lost her footing and was dragged into the coffin shaped bed by Lucca.

"Wait... What are you doing!"

Eco naturally became furious, but Lucca was not bothered by it. She held Eco who fell on the bed and drag her closer. Then, she stared at her head closely. It seems that she had taken interest in Eco’s pair of horns.

"This is not decoration... It grew out from the head?"

"What if it is! This is my proof of being a Dragon!"

"Cute."

"Huh?"

"Very cute."

"I-Is it......?"

Eco was probably shy and thus gave up on resisting. Lucca as if taking care of a baby, gently stroked Eco’s horn. Halfway through that, Lucca suddenly came out with a ridiculous request.

"Can you give me your horns?"

Eco became transfixed in fear, but then it was followed by her expression of ferocity.

"What? Want me to give the my horns to you... you're dreaming!"

"Can’t you pull them down?"

"Pull them down! What do you think a dragon horn is!"

"Otherwise, can I taste it?"

"What? Taste?... Hyaa!"

Eco gave an eccentric voice and then remained motionless. Ash was also dumbfounded by what he was saw. Lucca hugged Eco from behind, then bit the horn on the head. The way she was tasting Eco’s horn was like a small animal nibbling its owner.

"Ah... don’t bite my horn...!"

Surprisingly, Eco didn’t even resist, but she showed an exhausted expression and let her do whatever she wanted. The seductive expression on her face made Ash’s heart race. Apart from her face, even her limbs were dyed a vague hint of pink.

"W-What are you doing to a honourable and noble dragon... what are you doing... W-Watch out or else I will trample you... Ahh,
huff...!"

Her cheeks were red, judging from her panting. Perhaps she was trying her best to resist.
[[Image:SnRK V03 002-003.jpg|thumb|S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!'' Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin, desperately trying to escape. '']]

"S-Stop...... P-Please spare me...... Awu!"

Eco’s body shuddered and lifted her chin. Desperately trying to escape, she inadvertently bent her knees which lifted her skirt. The white
cloth could be seen.

"-!"

Ash was dumbfounded but he quickly looked away. Although her position made imagination run wild, Eco who was under Lucca's
control didn't realize that her panties were exposed. Two girls were entangled in the coffin-like bed. That alone will enough to cause a nose bleed. Anyway, who would have thought by biting her horn, she would become weak... Ash concealed his surprise after finding out another Eco’s weakness.

"...It really has the taste of a dragon."

Soon, Lucca who was finally satisfied released Eco.

Eco seizing that chance, immediately jumped out of the coffin and hid behind Ash. She just stuck a face out and stared fiercely at Lucca. Looking like she was almost out of breath, it was as if she was a beast that lost her fight.

"Well... I'll continue with my sleep."

Lucca was totally not bothered by Eco’s sight. She comfortably lay herself flat in the coffin.

"You still want to sleep!"

Ash came back to his sense and grabbed Lucca's shoulder. Although he was shocked by how thin her shoulders are, now was not the time to retreat.

"Rebecca-san is waiting at the Seventh Dragon House. I beg you, can you please immediately get ready? It is for you and Gawain."

"... What are you going to do to my Pal?"

Lucca's eyes soon become serious. Ash nodded to her firmly and tried to calm her down.

"Rest assured, we will not do anything bad to Gawain."

''But rather I am a little worried that I’ll be thrown up far away by Gawain...'' Ash silently added in his heart.

Lucca stared at Ash’s face for a good while. Then, she finally got up from the coffin.

"...Alright, I'll get ready right now."

"Thank you."

Ash who was relieved tried to express his gratitude to her- However, Lucca without a warning put her hand on the button on her one-piece pajamas. Regardless of Ash’s presence, she unbuttoned them one by one. From her collarbone to her chest area... Her ceramic-like skin was exposed bit by bit.

"Wait a minute!"

Ash rushed to seize Lucca by her shoulders. Lucca stopped what she was doing and looked at Ash face confusedly.

"What?"

''It is wrong for her to look at me in the eyes...'' Ash secretly groaned. Her delicate and charming appearance, nearly had Ash entranced. Her facial features were like a doll, her amethyst-like eyes, pointed ears, and a delicate body that looked like it might disappear with just a touch and a vanilla-like fragrance... It was like everything about her had a mysterious charm, as if something that did not belong to this world. Ash forced himself to look away, and spoke to her in a tone for disciplining children:

"I-I’ll look aside, please hurry up and change, okay?"

Even though Lucca still looked confused, at least she understood his sincerity and gently nodded.

Ash was relieved and turned his back against Lucca. He caught a glimpse of Silvia still being taken care by Jessica from the corner of his eyes. At the same time, she was constantly reciting something like a curse.

"F-For someone to actually not know the princess... which means... My royal family's dignity must be further strengthened..."

In addition, Eco was furious behind Ash.

"How dare she bite my precious dragon horn... T-T-This is a great insult...!"

===Part 15===
"...I'm ready."

After hearing Lucca’s voice, Ash took a deep breath.

From the time Ash heard the sound of the clothes rubbing against each other from his back, he unconsciously held his breath. That was how tense the situation was just now.. Moreover, Lucca who had stayed in her room for a long time didn't know what season was right now. She started to wear her winter uniforms initially. Therefore some additional time was spent to put on her summer uniform. Ash intently looked at Lucca who was now in her uniform. The beauty of a yōsei together with the familiar uniform, with this combination, Lucca looked like the world's most delicate and charming girl.

"Hey... Where are you staring at?"

Eco who was finally back to her old self, angrily stared at Ash.

"Y-You mustn’t misunderstand! I absolutely didn’t look at her with a perverted thought!"

"...Is that so?"

Ash who couldn't stand Eco’s condemnation, walked towards the door.

"Well, let's go. Rebecca-san and the rest are still waiting for us."

After hearing Ash's urging, Silvia also finally looked upwards.

Then, Lucca said something.

"...You had stepped on it."

Lucca's sight was set on Ash’s foot. Ash confusedly looked down toward his foot-

"Uwa!"

In the end, he nearly jumped on the spot. His right foot had indeed stepped on something. No matter how you looked at it, it appeared to be a girl’s pair of panties. A white pair of panties with pale-green stripes. Opposite to the panicking Ash, Lucca gracefully stepped forward and picked it up. Then, she spread it out in front of Ash. Without hesitating, she lifted up a leg and put it in.

"-!"

The moment Lucca lifted her knee, the things under her skirt were almost seen. Ash was sweating in shock. The school uniform skirt was originally designed to be short. The next second, there was a murderous intend behind Ash.

"It appears... Slaves that do not know how to behave have to be given punishment."

Eco’s body was trembling.

"An enemy of all women must receive the sanctions of the hammer of death!"

Silvia swept away her previous depression and a raging fire ignited behind her.

"Please stop, that was unintentional!"

Ash’s justification was in vain, Eco and Silvia were kicking with their might as well as giving him the iron fist.

"I’m going to crush you!"

“This is the family rule of the Lautreamont family!”

===Part 16===
"It's really strange; the experiment had obviously not yet begun... how come you were badly bruised?"

Rebecca, who was waiting at the Seventh Dragon House, was stunned after seeing his condition which was like rags and asked him. Behind Rebecca was Angela who was wearing a white robe and Max.

"Nothing important, err... Ah haha."

Ash could only use giggle. But Eco and Silvia were furious. Seeing their faces, Rebecca smiled.

"There is no need to act violent just because of being jealous... why don’t you two try to learn how to be more lady-like? If your personalities are so crude, then you must beware that Ash will be dragged into bed by Jessica?"

Upon hearing Rebecca, Silvia reacted and her face became red hot.

"Dragged into bed- How could the student council president say such dirty words!"

"Haha. I just thought you now looked a little more like a royal... After seeing your useless appearance, Princess Veronica may soon come looking for you."

Silvia became pale and shut her mouth. It was said that a horrible Ogre will capture disobedient kids - this type of story has long been rumored in Ash's hometown. But for Silvia, the Ogre was Veronica. Angela finally spoke with a serious tone as if she was representing everyone:

"Rebecca-san has explained the whole incident to me . This challenge is considered to be foolhardy... Are you ready for it Ash-san?"

Ash felt a chill for being looked through the spectacles. However, if he got scared just because of this, then he will be unable to proceed with today’s main objective. Because what Ash was going to challenge was nothing but a great Maestro.

"I’ll be alright."

"If it is so, then remember to put on your dragsuit! You still remember the rules for the dragon riding academy right?"

Angela with a rare teacher-like attitude reminded him. But Ash had no intention of wasting valuable time on changing clothes.

"Never mind it. I just want to try to have a conversation as a human with Gawain."

===Part 17===
The Seventh Dragon House was purpose-built for the use of the Maestro. At the same time, it was a sacred place in the campus. Even the building looked more luxurious than the other dragons houses. Judging by its appearance alone, it gave a feeling of a villa owned by a noble. Currently there were five Maestros at the Seventh Dragon House. By rummaging the Ansarivan Academy's history, it was rare for the Seventh Dragon House to be this grand. It also indirectly proved just how unusual was the existence of a Maestro. Rebecca's Pal Cú Chulainn was the one who shone the most. It was as if it was only right to do so because it was sitting in the middle of the Seventh Dragon House.

Facing the huge sacred body, one couldn't help but became amazed. In contrast with that huge body, even large ceilings designed for an adult dragon felt low. Apart from Cú Chulainn and Gawain, there were Silvia’s Lancelot and Max's Arianrhod. For Ash, these two Maestros could be considered as familiar faces. Incidentally, the vice president's Pal was not present.

"Gawain is here."

Led by Angela, Ash and the rest came to the innermost section of the dragon house. Gawain was lying on the ground looking weak. Although its physical size was of a young dragon, its fur was silvery white which proved it to be a Maestro. The dragon horn which looked like a stag was also quite unique and made it looked mighty. But perhaps it was weak, there was no majestic feeling. Ash was worried about Gawain by just looking at it.

"Angela-sensei is there any hope... For a cure?"

"Right now, it's not sick. I think the cause of this is the link between it and Lucca-san had been broken off. As long as there is a supplement of Astral its spirit will be restored."

Ash was slightly reassured after hearing Angela’s answer.

"Lets us begin now -"

Ash wanted to rushed to Gawain, however ..

"Hold on, Ash."

Someone grabbed his shoulder from behind. After looking back, it turned out to be Rebecca.

"We’ll let Lucca and Gawain meet first. Come here Lucca, say hello to Gawain."

Under Rebecca's urging, Lucca timidly stepped forward. But after a few steps, she stopped.

''Surely, as an owner, she could touch its fur...'' Even when Ash thought so, but it seems that Lucca had no such intention. Perhaps after hiding herself for three months, there was probably a barrier between her and Gawain. Or, could she have any better reason for not standing close to Gawain......?

"Gawain..."

Upon hearing Lucca calling its name, Gawain coldly turn its head away and treated her like a stranger.

"Sure enough, there is no other way…."

Lucca was dejected and turned her back against Gawain. She could be seen crying and intended to run away.

"Stop! Lucca!"

But Silvia had blocked her path. Unsure whether she was angered by Gawain’s attitude, Silvia pulled a long face.

"Listen clearly; the ideal relationship between humans and dragons is definitely not harmony, but the status itself. Lucca.... Did you spoil Gawain in the past? From its attitude earlier, Gawain did not seem to treat you as its master. "

Lucca lowered her head without a word. After a long while she finally raised her head.

"Perhaps what you are saying is right… But to me… it is an important family member... I don’t think that there is a need for a master-servant relationship...."

Silvia sighed.

"Me too. I love Lancelot as a family. Yet, because of love, we need to be strict sometimes and discipline them. You mustn't forget this."

"I’m... going back."

After leaving this sentence, Lucca rushed out of the dragon house. Ash clearly saw the moment when she ran away, her eyes were shedding tears.

"I'll give it a try."

As if to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, this time, Ash had officially confronted Gawain. Ignoring the gradually approaching Ash, Gawain remained motionless. Is it because it doesn't acknowledge Ash? Or does it not have the strength to bother with Ash...? Being anticipated and gazed by the crowds, Ash carefully prepared.

Gawain didn't seem to be on alert. This time should be an easy win.... Ash who was confidence made a leap. Gawain was not equipped with a saddle. Like riding on a bare horse, Ash went up Gawain back. Because there were no reins, he could only cling to its neck to maintain his center of gravity.

"Alright, I will start...!"

At this moment, Gawain gave a fierce roar and was fiercely resisting. Being shook vigorously, making Ash's body sent flying out.

"Urggh...!"

After being spun in mid-air, Ash abruptly fell to the ground. Even when he managed to make a roll to reduce the impact, it was strong enough to make him feel suffocated. In between his back and his waist, the pain slowly spread. Gawain who threw out Ash was lying down obediently.

"Ash!"

Rebecca and the other arrived while looking miserable.

"I-I'm fine..."

Ash force himself to sit up. Although his pain had not yet disappeared, at least there was nothing abnormal with his bones. The grounds at the dragon house were soft, which was fortunate for him.

"Ahh, Ash-sama...! My Ash-sama is...!"

"It is alright, it is alright. Please move aside."

Angela pushed the panicking Jessica to one side. With both hands she held Ash’s cheeks and ask questions.

"Did you knock your head?"

"No... My head is all right."

"Don’t look down on me, I have a doctor's license. If you feel any pain or even uncomfortable, try to be honest and tell me!"

"Really... so sensei have a doctor's license?"

"Only that it is a veterinarian’s."

Ash revealed a bitter smile. Angela probably took a veterinarian license because she wanted to study about the dragons. After everyone knew that Ash was alright, the group of people become relieved.

"Sorry Ash, it was because of my ridiculous proposal..."

Rebecca revealed a rare dignified expression and apologized to Ash which made Ash felt uneasy.

"W-What are you talking about! Challenging Gawain is entirely my own idea; Rebecca-san has not done wrong."

"In short, the experiment will end here. I cannot let you to continue to face the dangers."

"No, don’t rush to conclusions! I have my trump card too."

"Trump card?"

"That’s right. When I was dealing with the Necromancia I had failed again and again. Later I succeed with the use of the Ark."

Rebecca crossed her arms with a serious look.

"Hmm... I see. But Ash, as a student council president, I cannot allow you to continue to take the risks. As a teacher, Angela-san also should not permit it right?"

Being watched by Rebecca, Angela replied with a flirtatious smile:

"Me? I don’t have any comment in this. I never get tired of seeing Eco creating the Ark!"

Angela's reply was nothing like what a teacher will say. But she was initially not a teacher but a researcher. Just because she wanted the opportunity to encounter with Eco, she became a teacher. So it was futile to have Angela acting like one.

"From sensei's personality, I’m not surprised for you to say such things.... have you decided yet, Ash?"

"Of course, I have decided to try again."

After Ash promised, Eco exploded in anger.

"Wait a minute! Who allowed you to decide anything without my permission! Again, for me to create an Ark for such a small... are you still sane!"

Ash lightly put his hand on the furious Eco’s head.

"Hey, don’t answer so quickly. What about if I treat you to vanilla crepes?"

"Hmph! I would not be bribed by those kinds of things!"

"Otherwise I’ll add in a strawberry flavored."

"W-What are you joking about! What are you taking an extraordinary dragon for!"

Although Eco didn't promise, but Ash could tell that she was slightly moved through her eyes.

"Yeah, a new flavored crepe is going to be on sale! I remember that... It was chocolate banana flavored?"

"Chocolate banana...?"

''Gulp''. Ash clearly heard Eco swallowing her saliva. The blow undoubtedly triggered Eco’s curiosity and appetite.

"...I have to tell you clearly, this is an exception!"

After struggling for a moment in her heart, Eco closed her eyes on the spot, and started reciting her spells.

''“Almete, Gorjal… Peto, Espaldar, Brafoneras, Faldaje… Escarcelas, Bufetas, Hombreras… Brazales, Codales… Antebrazos…”''

Rebecca smiled after seeing Eco started reciting.

"Hehe. You are getting better in controlling!"

“T-This can’t be considered as controlling!”

Ash felt embarrassed and his cheeks were red hot.

===Part 18===
''“Manoplas… Quijotes, Guardas…Grebas, Escarpes…”''

Eco's incantation was about to enter its final stage. This was the fourth time she had created the Ark and the way she chanted felt a lot smoother. Perhaps the experience that she had accumulated made her to be more skillful in her technique.

''“-Espolón!”''

After Eco finished her spell, a divine light filled their entire field of vision followed by a thunderous bang. Ash's body could be seen surrounded by gentle lights. The ‘Seikoku’ on his left hand strangely became painful. After the dazzling light faded, Ash was in a silver Ark. This set of Ark was the same as the first Ark that Eco created when he fought the Necromancia. Although it was an imitation rebuilt from the design that were passed down by the Dragons, it still consumed Eco’s own magic to create the Ark.

"Ahh... the genuine ‘Silver Knight’!"

Jessica was deeply moved like a believer who had witnessed miracles from God.

"The hopes are on you, Ash."

Ash nodded to Rebecca who cheers for him. By turning his back toward the crowd, he again was facing Gawain. Just when Ash moved closer, Gawain gave a warning growl. It slowly climbed up from the ground to stand on all fours and fiercely stared Ash. It obviously was on guard against Ash who was equipped with the Ark.

"Don’t be angry, I just want to have a talk with you alone."

Ash leaped and since the Ark was constructed with a huge amount of magic, it had a variety of additional effects. That was why he could float in mid-air for some time. Ash’s jump had passed the normal height of a normal human and was gliding towards Gawain. Right at the moment, he believed that he could succeed for sure -

"Huh...!"

But Ash had landed on the ground. His sabotons had sunk into the soft land. The area he was standing was the place where Gawain was resting previously.

"Disappea...r?"

Ash was stunned. He obviously thought that he had successfully landed on Gawain's back, but the big thing had disappeared in a blink of an eye as if it had teleported .

"Above you, Ash!"

Rebecca's warning instantly brought him back to his sense. He quickly looked up and saw Gawain. Gawain was clinging to the ceiling on all fours with his head facing the ground. It is exactly like a bat. At that moment, Gawain growled with a roar full of fighting spirit that shook the air around and emitted a breath.

"-!"

Ash immediately crossed his arms into a defensive posture, but he was in the trajectory for the attack. Ash felt a strong pressure of wind and heat and was knocked back. Ash only stopped floating when he abruptly collided with the stone wall.

“Ah…Ark…!”

Ash was suffocating because his Ark couldn't withstand this impact. Suddenly, he had a thought that he had broken into pieces. At the same time he knelled down, the Ark turned into particles of light and vanished...

"H-How is this possible...!"

Just like sand, the Ark slipped passed his fingers. It was but only a mere hit, but the damage was already more than what the Ark could withstand. Ash had long ago heard in class about how destructive the Dragon’s Breath was… Only when he had personally experienced it, it was far more horrifying than what you could imagine. Of course, it was clear that Gawain had shown some mercy. If it really had the killing intent, let alone a mere dragon house, even the whole school would be turned into ashes.

''If I’m not equipped with the Ark...'' Ash shivered just by think about what will be going to happen next.

"Damn!"

The frustrated Ash stare ruthlessly at Gawain. Just like when the winner was decided, Gawain landed on the ground lightly and lied down. But it seemed to detect the hostility from Ash and looked at him coldly.

“Grrrrrrrrrr…..”

And it did not forget to threaten with its growl. Ash wall full of cold sweat and leaned against the stone .

"That arrogant attitude reminds me of somebody...."

Hearing the angry curse, Eco who arrived together with Rebecca and the rest immediately reacted.

"What did you say just now?"

With her crimson eyes staring at Ash, even Gawain had to admit its loss to those frightening eyes.

In the end, because Ash terribly lost even when he was equipped with the Ark, the crowd dissolved. As for what to do to make Gawain accept Lucca- Rebecca declared with a serious tone ''"A separate meeting will be held to discuss about it on another day."''

===Part 19===
The student restaurant ‘La Tene’ was located in the campus. It was a bungalow built with red bricks for its outer wall. The chimney was its iconic feature. It was open only at weekdays, starting at half past eleven in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. Whether it was about the dining table or chairs, all of them used the Chevron design, which gave off a feeling of elegance.

"Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

It was evening. Anya who became a restaurant waitress was busily working. Currently ‘La Tene’ was just like the manager had said, lacking manpower. That was why Anya was busy until she had nearly no time to take a breath. Even so, Anya did not forget her mission - collect intelligence. But she also had used her waitress identity to collect useful intelligence from the conversation with the students. Perhaps she should thank the manager for recommending her to be a waitress. If she had given the infield job that she had originally chosen, there might have been no opportunity to come into contact with the students. As the students here were all breeders, Anya had a little wariness in the beginning. But once she had actually come into contact with them, she found out that they were just ordinary teenagers.

''-The peoples of the Knight’s country are really unbearably vulgar.''

Especially the boys. They seem to be very curious about Anya who had a foreigner’s look and actively took the initiative to talk with her. Among them, there were obviously guys who didn't have a pure motive. Anya skillfully uncovered intelligence from those guys. Ash was a famous person. None of those who talked to Anya didn't know about him. Some praised him as a wonder student who could easily ride a Pal belonging to others. He was also criticized for being a problem student who caused trouble all day long.

There was also information that he recently received a strong support from Rebecca, the student council president. But, about Ash saving the city by controlling the Necromancia and defeating 'Avdocha the Convict’, none of these students knew about them.

''Sure enough, the intelligence is controlled''- Anya intuitively though so.

It was probably interfered by the Academy’s Council or the student council. Veronica should also have a thing or two to do with this. On the other hand, there was also useful information. It was said that Ash’s Pal, a young dragon Eco was not a normal dragon, but a delicate and charming girl. This was really unbelievable. For a dragon to be born in a human form, it was unheard of. However, since Ash himself was not a breeder who could be described with normal logic, she didn't feel that it was really unbelievable. No, it should be said that.... ''who knows if that young dragon called Eco is the key making Ash unique.''

If she had the choice, Anya wanted to come into contact with Ash and Eco. Now, Anya as student restaurant waitress had fully blended into the environment. Even when she made contact, Ash would not be wary about her. The point was Ash had never entered ‘La Tene’. Evidently he did not seem to have the habit to dine in ‘La Tene’.

===Part 20===
After she asked the manager while pretending to have a chat, the manager said that among the regulars customers of ‘La Tene’ students from the middle class family had accounted for more than half of its customers. Students from the upper class family usually go downtown to dine. As for those from the lower class family, they choose the dormitory restaurant where the food was the cheapest. Ash didn't look like a person who came from the upper class, so he should be from the latter one.

''-Ding..''

At that time, the entrance bell rang. After she saw the face of the guest when she turned back, Anya suddenly gasped.

"It is that guy...!"

The person in the doorway was none other than Ash Blake. There was a beautiful girl in uniform standing beside him. At first glance they looked a bit like lovers - but the girl had a very fresh and refined beauty. Also there were circular stubs on her head. That was a unique horn of a young dragon.

''The girl should be the Eco....'' Anya secretly made her own speculation.

===Part 21===
On the way to ‘La Tene’, Eco’s stomach had given out a thundering noise for three times and had frightened the students that passed by.

"That... What is bad about eating in the dormitory restaurant? Not only is it cheaper, but we also can eat until we are full..."

"I'm sorry! But I’m tired of eating the dormitory’s food! Don’t you know that just having a balanced nutrient in the meals is not enough!"

"Haa... it was said that dragons were foodies and it really is true."

Ash moaned and groaned when he recalled the contents of the basic class. Opposite to the description of the barbarian dragons from the foreign folk tales, dragons were artistic creatures and cooking was also taken as a part of art. Soon, Ash and Eco had arrived at ‘La Tene’. After Eco energetically opened the door, they smelled an appetizing smell immediately.

"Wow! What nice smell...! When the school had such a nice restaurant, why do you not bring me here earlier?"

“You want me to go bankrupt! Today is an exception!"

While those two quarreling by the door, a waitress appeared. She was wearing ‘La Tene’s’ signature maid attire.

"W-Welcome to ‘La Tene’!"

The waitress seemed to be newly employed and looked extremely tense. She had a foreign air about her - her tan skin, deep facial contour and her dark hair that was tied up at the back of her head.

"...Nn?"

Ash frowned and carefully stare at the girl's face. As if he had seen her before...?

"T-That..."

Just when the girl was a little reluctant and was muttering-

"Urrrggh!"

There was sudden harp pain in Ash toes which made him jump on the spot. It seemed that it was Eco who had ruthlessly stepped on his foot.

"What are you doing!"

Eco was in a furious temper.

"Who asked you to be charmed by some female! Hey, the female over there! Why don’t you hurry up a little to help us look for a place!"

"O-Okay!"

Ash sympathized the waitress who was given orders by the arrogant Eco.

===Part 22===
In contrary to Eco who was attentively studying the menu, Ash had long ago decided.

"That... I want a plate of ‘pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom'."

"‘Pasta with Allonne's oyster and mushroom’ is that right? Are there any other needs?"

"No, this is enough."

"Will you be full with this?"

''As a boy, he really has a small appetite...'' Anya poked her nose into his business.

"Huh?"

Ash looked at Anya with a puzzled expression. It seemed that, he was surprised for Anya to be this cordial when speaking to him.

"S-Sorry for being nosy..."

After Anya apologized for a number of times, Ash smiled back.

"I don’t really have much of an appetite today. I just had a duel with a dragon and I suffered a crushing defeat..."

"Duel with s dragon? What’s that about?"

When Anya curiously asked, Ash's face clearly stated the words ''I’m done for''. He kept his mouth shut and refused to speak anymore. It seems that it was likely a confidential project of the student council.

"N-Nothing... this is very popular game recently. I’m just playing that game."

"Haha... I also think so."
[[Image:SnRK V03 119.jpg|thumb]]

Even when Anya responded with a polite smile, she secretly thought that this man really did not know how to tell a lie.

"I had decided for good!"

After Eco shouted, she stared at Anya. The pair of charming crimson eyes was reflecting Anya's face.

"...What would you like to order?"

"Two hundred and fifty grams of Chevron beef, lamb chops with herb, fried Allonne's oyster, a half boiled omelet, corn soup... give me all this first for the time being."

"Huh?"

Anya suspected that she heard it wrong and stared at Eco’s petite body.

"What is your reaction about! That’s why I always say that humans are folly and ignorant being!"

"S-Sorry..."

At this moment, Ash spoke on Anya’s behalf:

"Hey, Eco! Please do not bully the waitress! Besides... can you finish so many things?"

Seeing Ash showing his owner like side, Anya started to admire him a little. However, not only Eco failed to calm down, but she also had gotten furious.

"You...! Today I had only eaten three meals! A dragon must eat five times a day! Don’t tell me you have forgotten!"

"Huh... you've only eaten three meals today?"

"I will crush you! It is because of you wasting time on saving that dragon that cannot be saved!"

"S-Sorry..."

Seeing that Ash was going to be trampled anytime, Anya secretly sighed.

"Lucca & Maestro Gawain ~A.S.B. 1365.6~" is closed.

<noinclude>

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

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|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 3 Chapter 1

2018-09-27T08:16:40Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and some restructuring.

==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 ran, she couldn'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 had long exceeded her self-esteem limit.

"Ash… Please help me!"

Even when she had shouted a name, that she rarely mentioned, there was no response.

"Urk......!"

Eco suddenly fell to the ground hitting her face hard. The cause seemed 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 appeared 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 worm 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's face emerged in Eco’s mind Why did he sit back, while watching his master experience such misery, and yet still refused 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 was 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 intended to accept it with her heart. The tentacles swarmed over her body gradually and eventually covered her-

Right at that moment... A low sound originated from the ground and was 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 caused him to wake up from his sleep.

"Hmm...... Eco?"

While rubbing his sleepy eyes Ash looked around. The room was dark and the sun's rays that managed to pass through the curtains silts were still very weak. It seemed to be some time before the morning bell rang. Ash was rather surprised for such a rare thing to happen. Eco had actually woken up early and, then of course, woken up Ash. It was a rare sight for Eco, who was 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 surprisingly he felt nothing of her usual aggressiveness.

"What’s wrong with you?"

Suddenly sweeping away his sleepiness, 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 could make such an expression. Even her pair of stubs, that signified a young dragon, looked pale. In addition, he 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 emanating 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 bed.

"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 blushed. Judging by the looks on 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 thought. 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 humbly pleading, Ash’s heart started 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 wanted 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. And just when Ash was secretly thinking so...

"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 who was carrying a basket full of dirty clothes like himself. 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 feels 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 was 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 concentrated on washing his clothes. If he continued to go on chatting, he will be too late to catch up with the morning's scheduled assembly. Raymond was also concentrating on washing his clothes, in the beginning. But Raymond was not the type of person who kept 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 that 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 made known to 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 she 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 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. That was something what Ash couldn't deny. But that was just an accident. At that time Eco had just eaten an Ansal sweet, becoming 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 honourable thing to be selected to the Selective Training Camp. 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 this, had ultimately decided to cover his left arms’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 and the hall become silent immediately .

"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 continued 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 her heart desired it."

"- 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 in 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 an 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 commanding voice:

"Silence! It is true that Lucca-san has been absent for a long time. But she has left good results. Her total results topped the fifth so we selected Lucca-san."

The chancellor's righteous explanation 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, you picked this student personally, 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 />

{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi:Volume 3 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

2018-09-26T09:00:47Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and some restructuring

==Prologue==
Lautreamont Knight Country, the 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, this 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!”

“Alright! I’ll be in your care!” replied Anya with a smile to the manager:

This place was 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 was 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 was 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 when Ash had saved Anya from the landslide. As fate would have it, the person who Ash was trying to save was actually 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 rescued her again, 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 that statement but still suspected something. The female terrorist who occupied the church sure looked like a young child and was a totally different person from the portrait in the wanted poster. Also. her body was very petite and 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. the authorities had mentioned nothing about Ash Blake, who had been an active negotiator at the time. The information appeared 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 was 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 wanting to sweep away the awkward atmosphere, asked 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 look 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 reason 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 also a 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 abandoning your work without any reason...... I have seen many cases like this."

The manager had spoke a quite far-fetched reason, then, she suddenly leaned forward.

"Admire...... someone?"

At that moment, a lonely image of the delightful Milgauss emerged in Anya’s mind. – She had initially expected this so she was totally surprised 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, she found out that the manager was 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 couldn'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. he will definitely participate in it. 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!" declared Anya firmly to the manager. But the manager remained in silence and was staring at Anya.

"That... Tenchou? Anything wrong?"

"Y~an! How can you be so cute… Anya!"

The manager immediately leaped towards Anya. So suddenly that even Anya, who possessed extraordinary skills, couldn't manage to respond in time. Although her breasts were big and soft, which brought peace to her mind for a short moment, but...

“Muuu…”

Anya, whose whole face was buried deep within them, was suddenly suffocating.

"Yes! I have something which I hope you will accept it."

The manager suddenly released Anya and moved to the locker by the wall.

"... What?"

Anya breathed heavily and at the same time looked 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."

Anya 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 was full of frills.

"Excuse me ... this is?"

"It is the waitress uniforms. Ain’t it cute?"

"P-Please wait a moment!" panicked Anya. Regardless of how she thought… This attire was way off her style.

"I applied for an 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 were 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]]
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|}
</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Epilogue

2018-09-24T14:15:24Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and restructuring.

==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> And, like always. still sleept naked. The morning light, shining through a slit of the curtain, fell upon her white skin. After he realized that, his heartbeats began to increase… Ash quickly looked 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 meant that she was ready to proceed with 'that' "behavior".

"... Ow!"

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

"Mmm. Hmm ..."

Her rose like lips and her teeth were constantly nibbling him, and her tongue was also licking him all over. After all, since this was a young dragon’s natural instinct, she couldn't be blamed......

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

When Ash felt that something was wrong, Eco gave a hard bite. That strength has long passed the stage of nibbling, her teeth were 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, was wrestling with Eco. At that moment… There was a sudden knock.

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

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

===Part 2===
Ash, led by Rebecca, was brought to the airship Silvanus. Eco, who had 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 pulled out a folded paper from her pocket. After Ash received it, he flipped it open and read 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 that Ash was surprised for a moment.

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

Ash was 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 was rare Rebecca to 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 peeped 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 was 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 was leisurely sitting in the captain's seat, and the person beside her was actually the convict Avdocha. She remained 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 couldn't help but wonder why Avdocha was in the navigation room freely.

"...... Ash. It was all part of Anee-ue's strategy."

Silvia, who arrived earlier, revealed a regretful expression and sighed while talking to Ash. Cosette and Prim were 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 spoke there wasn't even the slightest hint of an apology. Captain Glenn was also beside Veronica. He seems displeased, but is it his own thought?

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

Ash was speechless. He pretended to casually glance at Rebecca from the side but it seems that she didn't feel surprised.

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

Rebecca said grimly.

"I did think that this was a little strange, but I’m not that sure. Any way. This particular terrorist act was too low for the 'Avdocha the Convict' standard. Plus the coincidence that Silvia was involved… So it became 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 spoke, she was frozen.

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

Avdocha straightforwardly answered Ash.

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

"What ...!"

Ash was 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 operated the controls. After a few seconds, Silvia's voice with a slight static was 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 seemed 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, departed from Ansarivan. Apart from the mayor and the principal––the student’s council members led by Rebecca, Maestro Cú Chulainn and Maestro Lancelot were 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 so that she considered to arrange that farce?[[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.]]

"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 was enough to run people dry… She even managed to design it to let Silvia grow up. That's totally genius.

This time Silvia 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 was simple. Because before the airship took flight… What Veronica said to Silvia was 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

2018-09-24T14:01:37Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and some restructuring - continued.

==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 had 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 opened the door without hesitation but just as he did so… An object, like a cannon, flew into his arms.

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

Eco’s body was soft. Yesterday she probably went to stay in Rebecca's room for the night. She smelled a sweet scent. One that did not tire you of it and yet made you feel refreshed.

"Something wrong?"

Eco’s attitude made Ash feel troubled. The feeling was 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 buried her face in Ash’s chest and was reluctant to let go. Not only did she not let go, but there were also signs that she was hugging him a lot more tightly. The heat from her was transferring to Ash's body. If it was only just that… Then he could have 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 hand into the gap between tie and neck, which barely enabled him to breathe again. At least he was now free from the danger of suffocating. What was wrong with Eco so early in the morning? Her cheeks were bright pink and her eyes were watery. Ash was struggling but Eco continues to attack.

"Huff......"

After making that cute sound… Eco’s feet began to wrap 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 shivered.

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

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

Her half opened lips moved 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 came 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 was now like she was a different person. Her cheeks were getting redder and she stared 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 fell 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 held 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 opened her mouth halfway. Behind her pearl white teeth, a pink tongue was 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 Ansal was harmless to humans, it brought a strong intoxicating effect to the dragons. Like alcohol was to humans… Ansal's smell brought pleasure to dragons. The problem was that Eco was only a young dragon. Even with only a small amount of Ansal the result it brought was hard to predict.

"Come on. Quickly spit it out!"

"Nn....”

Eco exhaled a mouthful of heat, and firmly grasped Ash’s tie. Even though Eco was a petite girl, her strength was still like a dragon. Ash, unable to do anything, could only let her pull him–– Eco, with Ash immobilised, and whose mouth was half-opened with her lips...

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

"...!"

The two sticky and slippery tongues entangled. The unimaginable shock made Ash’s mind go blank and transfixed in place.

"Tee hee..."

During that time of contact, the candy was rolled into Ash’s mouth. Through his mouth, Ash could still feel Eco’s body radiating from the mouth-fed candy, which was melted into half of its original volume. Ash was utterly entranced.

"You… Just now..."

His face was so hot that it felt as if flame was going to burst out from it. Before, Ash was wholly concentrated on the mouth-fed candy. That was why it was only now that Ash found their lips were sticking tightly together. Eco then slowly averted her face, revealing a devilish smile. Thinking hard of what had just happened… Wasn't that his and Eco’s first kiss?

"Nn....”

Suddenly, like a puppet whose strings were cut, Eco fell limp. She buried her face in Ash’s arms and fell into a deep sleep. Seems like the drunken Eco had 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 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 was accidentally swallowed.

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

Rebecca leisurely crossed her arms in front of her chest, as she stood in the doorway. Her face was 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 wore those kind of underwear–– After getting lost in his imagination Ash returned 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 bad 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 was lying on the couch. The Vice President and the Secretary didn't seem like they intended 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 sensed 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 was commonly known as a 'Wanted Poster'. The entire sheet of paper was full of the details of the criminal’s characteristics and looks. The reward offered actually reached up to one million Eccles<ref>The currency in this story. From a town in UK.</ref>. Compared to a normal reward this amount was 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 were well underway. The noise, hustle and bustle of construction and repair 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 suddenly changed into full of cheers.

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

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

"That armour really looks valiant!"

Every worker stopped doing their work as they were 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 were 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, couldn't 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 was looking around aimlessly.

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

"Eco? Is there anything suspicious?"

Ash asked Eco with a nervous voice, 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 was dumbstruck. What Eco liked to eat the most was none-other than the crepes sold in the stall 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 was so disappointed that she showed a dejected expression and there were 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 heard this, Eco immediately smiled dazzlingly.

"...!"

Her smile was like a full blooming rose of which Ash could not help but stare at her deeply.

"Is 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 a pumped up attitude, cleared his throat.

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

In short. His bribery had been successful and Eco will, temporarily, quiet down. After all, he was 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 was 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 Ash was trying to keep Eco calmed down, Veronica’s condolence trip was smoothly being carried out. Apart from the square, the surrounding buildings had also been damaged by the Necromancia. Which was why there were many carpenters working there right now. The carpenter Veronica was talking to seemed 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 was 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 had the blood of a Tantalos. From a young age she had 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 was 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 were yet to be verified but they still 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 was the bell to indicate one o’clock in the afternoon.

"It is already this late...?"

Listening to the solemn bell, Silvia's face suddenly emerged in Ash's mind. The building around St Durham Square had 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 took Silvia’s feelings into account, and his mood was subsequently depressed, something happened.

Suddenly. ''-Boom!''

The sound of an explosion was 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 came up in Ash mind. The location where the black smoke arose were 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 were particularly extreme.

“-Princess please return to Silvanus.”

Glenn’s voice was heard at this time.

"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 interruptted Ash:

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

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

===Part 4===
Silvia arrived at the St Valeria’s Church under Veronica’s order and she did not even bring her maid Cosette with her. St Valeria’s statue was positioned on the altar and was one of the Twelve Apostles who served St Rosa Maria. In the denomination of Rosa Maria's bible; St Valeria was not only portrayed as a woman full of compassion, but also the protector of law. In addition to Silvia, there were also many people who patronised the church. Most of them looked like tourists though. So, those who were like Silvia––who had their own troubles––were of the minority.

“St Valeria. Please forgive my imprudent actions."

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

"St Valeria..."

At this time, someone else right beside Silvia was non-stop praying. That voice felt 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 was so shocked by the other roaring voice that she screamed and fell backwards. Silvia carefully looked at her face.

"...I knew 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 did not understand the reason Silvia was 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 felt her weakness 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's 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 could’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 turned 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."

Lips trembling, Jessica fiercely glared at Silvia.

"Then I’ll ask you... Can you can guarantee that your actions are never related to falsehood?"

"I-I..."

Silvia was also afraid that someone will see through her timid side, which was why she was always pretending to be strong. As one of the Lautreamont Knight Country’s Princess' she was 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 intended 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 seemed to have been an explosion upstairs.

"Kyaa!"

Silvia was so frightened she inadvertently clung to Jessica. Maybe Jessica was equally caught up in the panic she wrapped her arms around Silvia and hugged her hard. Silvia and Jessica’s screams were like a trigger which made 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 am 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 remembered 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 had the face of a child, a petite body, and a childlike appearance, which caused others to disbelieve she was a battle-hardened terrorist. She was totally different from the picture in the wanted poster. But the woman looked at the visitor with a calm expression.

Even while her body looked petite, she was still able to look down from up high. That was 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 caused 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 were well known as close relatives of an Asia, judging from the body's appearance, there was not even a slightest hint that they had 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, were at their posts; They were ready to take off at any time.

"Huhu... It's hard even for me to tolerate this, Glenn." said Veronica who was smiling while sitting on the captain seat.

"Yes. Veronica-sama." nodded Glenn seriously in agreement.

Apart from the escort’s captain Glenn who was by Veronica’s side, the other six escorts were 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.... How 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 crossed 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 was 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 was a lot of static noise, the scene shown on the screen looked like the interior of the St Valeria’s church–– St Valeria’s statue set on the altar statue proved this fact. The only thing was, the screen didn't show the hostages. Of course, that didn't rule out that Silvia could have been abducted.... which made Ash anxiously clench his fists.

At this moment… The projection screen suddenly showed a woman's face.

『 "I am 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 showed the calm demeanor of a royal family.

"She is...'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Ash's eyes widened and he turned 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 were 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 was magnificently decorated with its symbolic totem wing like crucifix. However, there is a person tied to the winged cross.

Ash and the others turned speechless and not just because of Avdocha's fetishes.

"Jessica...?"

Rebecca, who knew her since childhood, muttered blankly.

She was not wrong, the one tied on the winged cross was––the president of the SKFC––Jessica Valentine, of all people. Evidently she seemed to have inadvertently become a hostage.

"That’s t-too much!"

Ash's lips were trembling. Jessica was actually only wearing her underwear. Apart from her underwear and knee socks the rest of her clothing were mercilessly stripped away. The humiliated Jessica was desperately struggling to hold back her tears. Not only that, there are also squiggles on top of her bare belly that read:[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p190.jpg|thumb|The humiliated Jessica was desperately struggling to hold back her tears.]]

''- The Head of Valkyrie!''

"That. Is that text in blood...?"

"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 remarked. Even after witnessing Jessica’s inhumane treatment, Veronica was still so easy going. At this time, the screen slowly moves downwards, and the altar was shown.

"...What is that?"

Ash frowns.

Around the altar, there were black objects that give the impression of a ''"machine"''. Although it was an extremely strange and rarely seen thing, they were filled with a dangerous atmosphere that can never be found coming from equipment within the church.

From the screen Avdocha's voice was 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 clenched his fists. She was threatening that every hour there will be someone who will lose their life. Until the next time the bell rings… there was 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 was 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 were trembling endlessly while still trying to grasp the situation that they were in. The terrorist’s mastermind was 'Avdocha the Convicted’. There were nine soldiers surrounding them.

The nine soldiers give off the feeling that they were from the mountains and were large, muscular men. They were dressed in their folk costumes; With an eagle looking mask on their face they were equipped with the mountain people's usual whip and shamshir<ref>Half-moon shaped dagger.</ref> dagger among others. The nine men seemed to be loyal to Avdocha. In contrast to their savage like looks, they accepted orders just like any regular army soldiers. Avdocha's objective was to defeat Veronica and she probably wanted to take advantage of the 100 hostages to achieve her 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 was 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 tried 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 was almost scared out of her wits. However. Jessica was 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 imagined 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 bore all this, but it was not difficult to tell what she was 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 was not that Silvia didn't have this idea; the problem was, as long there were hostages, there was no way to summon Lancelot while in the church. This space in the church was 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 was disguised as a flower girl, was 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 Ansarivan. She only went to the St Valeria’s Church to gather information but was unfortunately drawn into Avdocha's terrorist act. 'Avdocha the Convict' was a legend in the mountains. Since she was lost in a military operation 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 was 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 was a perfect match with the title 'Avdocha the Convicted'. The record breaking reward amount, one million Eccles, was also a stunner. Anyway, the person herself was 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, was the best evidence that she was 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 were too many things that didn’t fit.

''- Such a terrorist act... is nothing but foolhardy.''

In this world… There were plenty of rebels who recklessly sacrificed their own lives. The Tantalos tribe, since a long time ago, seemed to be popular with suicide attackers. However, judging from the rumors spread on many parts of the mountains, at the very least Avdocha was 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 was the part that made Avdocha so scary and also added some style to her legend. Against such legendary exploits, it was impossible for her to do such a foolhardy act as this......

Anya felt 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. Not to forget each time the bell rang… 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 emigrants, that had the same tanned skin colour as Anya's increasing.

Moreover. There were rumors:

Princess Veronica established a force consisting of foreigners. She also intended to use a different army system for them than from the Knight's army. They were also for other uses. Also, there seemed to be many mountain people who were 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 was disguised as a flower girl… But that woman was 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 was hugging her knees with her hands and her head was buried in between them. This way she did 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 was probably that her act was funny but fortunately the baby also gave a happy grin.

She silently felt relieved within her heart, but at the same time she started 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 was speaking to is Veronica, Rebecca was 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 responded with a confident smile to Veronica.

"Public order of Ansarivan, since ancient times, has been 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 felt anxious. Since Silvia was taken as hostage, and the vice president and secretary were nowhere in sight as usual, the candidates left behind were the trio of Rebecca, Max, and Ash.

Of course, everyone knew that Rebecca was the most suitable person for this task, but -

"I recommend Ash Blake as negotiator."

Rebecca made a very surprising recommendation.

"Huh?"

Ash suspected he'd heard it wrongly.

"That... Rebecca-san, you're serious about it?"

Just when Ash was 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 replied 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 the officers who were in charge of the steering and the communication secretly peeped at Ash as if he was a suspicious person.

"Wait! Don’t talk any nonsense that’ll make people misunderstand!"

The ‘meat slave’ that Eco means was 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 were 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 was 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 was stunned.

"You are really strange. If there is any other meaning… Why don’t you speak it out loud?"

Veronica replied with a serious expression. As if she only knew this meaning. Eco and Veronica's thinking seemed to have something in common.

"Yes, you're right! That’s what Eco’s ‘meat slave‘ means!"

After Ash grasped the opportunity to explain… The atmosphere of the navigation room finally calmed down. Finally, Ash escaped from those sharp glares and he let out a sigh of relief, but the most fundamental problem was not yet solved.

"In short, without my permission, you'll never be going to send him there!"

Eco, who was stubborn, refused to back down. Similarly, like her, Rebecca looked like she wasn'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 was not unreasonable. If Ash was with the terrorists he would not greet Rebecca with open arms either.

"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 could only smile. Rebecca's technique was really amazing. He didn't know whether it was 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 was so close that they could sense each other's breath. Even when it was 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 didn't understand what she meant.

"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, was 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 understood Rebecca's intentions; he knew she did not mean to ill treat him. Max, who still remained in the stage of a Dragner, can only show his true colours when he was riding his dragon. 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 was very suitable for this kind of combat. Rebecca was right, despite the time constraints, Ash had that ability and 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 Ansarivan, 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 did 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 was puzzled.

"Huh? How do I know whether I can do it or not?"

"No. You can do it." smiled Ash with confidence 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 remembered the tie clip. This was given to him by the communication officer before departing. Inside The tie clip, even though it looked ordinary, a small piece of Bright-Dragon-Crystal was inside and it sent any sound it received back to the Silvanus' navigation room. To put it bluntly. It was an ultra-micro magic communication tool. Only then Ash realise that this type of machinery existed in this world.

Who would think that he would actually take on such a chore? Ash couldn't help but secretly cry. But Rebecca's analysis was very reasonable; He couldn't deny that he was the most suitable person to play this role. After all Ash as a student, was unknown to the public but at the same time he had 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 trousers. He then maintained his speed and continued to walk forward. Rebecca and Glenn should now have departed towards the church through the underground tunnels. Just when Ash was 20 meters from the main entrance of the church––

''-Shoo!''

Beside his ears, a whizzing sharp sound was heard and the stone on the ground was 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 was clearly a warning. If the sniper had the intention to kill, that shot probably would have killed Ash. After realizing he was one step away from death, Ash had a cold sweat. But he can't retreat at a time like this. Because Silvia was a hostage 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 did not think he sounded convincing but the ‘Student Council’ in this academy town held a great position. Since Avdocha was 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 hoped 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 was led to the altar. Fortunately. the soldiers didn't notice the tie clip and Ash was 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 was not moving Ash thought that she was dead. However. With a closer look there was still a sign of breathing in her chest. It seems that she just lost consciousness. The red text written on her belly was more shocking than 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 was able to find her.

"...!"

With a stunned look Silvia stared at Ash. Ash nodded slightly for Silvia to be at ease and moved 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 sound loud 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 understood why Avdocha deliberately brought up the sister topic. Because she wanted Veronica to also taste the same bitter feeling. Avdocha was not likely to let Silvia off lightly once she was exposed. Unfortunately, there were no signs that Rebecca and Glenn were about to break into the church.

''- Are you alright Eco...?''

With a desperate feeling Ash focused his attention on his left arm’s ‘Seikoku’. Through this 'Seikoku' Eco and Ash were able to communicate.

''- Eco... Can you hear me?''

But Eco did not respond.

===Part 11===
--- Dragon Workshop ---

This is but a space used by dragons to create their works. Even though Eco only had some knowledge about this space there was no doubt that this place was different from the real world. If the real world was defined as the physical world, then this can be compared to the spiritual world. Since they were 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 was protected in Silvanus's navigation room so she didn't need to worry about the safety of her body. The floor was paved with checkerboard like white and black square tiles. On the wall, there were 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 was not good at dealing with her. Today Navi was wearing a dark red dress and was sitting on an antique chair. When I grow up, will I become like her? Eco hated to look at her. Even her horns were 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 talked 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 form' and let him ride on you...Then you may be addicted to that feeling."

''“'True Form'?”''

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 was very unhappy with Navi's long-winded behaviour… Conditions did not allow her to continue to waste 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 were well over a thousand. What Eco can do now, was to extract the parts which were 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 was in the enemy’s den, and also for her favorite crepes, Eco could 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 had to leave this church alive, otherwise there was no meaning behind this. Not only each time the bell rings, they will kill a hostage… Veronica was 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 was… Anya was 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 was that the situation was still at 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 touched 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 couldn't produce any milk, and the baby's mother was 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 was cursing in the bottom of her heart, the baby started to fondle her breast. All of a sudden it squeezed it with its hands, and the next moment it rubbed them with its face. Compare to its mother’s breasts Anya’s were a lot smaller. Maybe the baby is troubled with the difference between the two?

Finally, through the clothing, the baby actually bit Anya’s nipples.

"...... Ah!"

Under the strange sensation… Anya let out a weird noise. That caused 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 turned sour...

"Woo Woo ... ''hick…'' ... Waaaaaa!"

It suddenly burst into tears. Anya looks ashed, even when she tried to please the baby, but it was a complete failure. She couldn't be blamed for this because she had never taken care of a child

''- Damn...... if Avdocha......''

However, in only five seconds, Anya’s worries become reality.

"So noisy...... Can’t a mother of the Knight country discipline her child properly?"

Anya, still hidden in the crowd, felt 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 took action.

''––I-It can’t be!'' Anya was horrified.

Avdocha actually wanted to feed the winged lizard with her and the baby......

One step, two steps. The soldiers moved through the crowd and were coming nearer. Since their expressions couldn't be seen under the mask, many people shuddered.

“Uuu..."<ref>Voice of being scared.</ref> The crowd moaned. Anya was scared and begins to shed tears. Even though Anya has cheated death a few times, and was a veteran, she still couldn't withstand Avdocha's heavy pressure and her mind instantly turned blank. The soldiers were now closer.

''"I can’t be saved anymore...!"''

Just when Anya gave up hope––

"Hold on!"

A loud voice echoed in the church and someone came forward to stand in front of Anya. The first thing that emerged in Anya’s eyes was 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 her child!"

===Part 13===
The voice in the church, through the magic communicator in Max’s hand, was 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 was 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 was 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 struggled, the soldiers didn't give the slightest stir. Even the 'School’s number one problem child' was 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 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 was already prepared as Silvia opened her arms to both sides and made a declaration:

"To die like a knight...... is what I wish for!"

"I admire your guts!"

Avdocha lifted the shamshir.

"Stop––!"

Ash’s scream couldn't stop the merciless blade.

''-Shaa!'' As the blade passed through the air. Killed... Silvia was killed.

Ash lost hope.

===Part 15===
"...?"

Silvia was still standing. There was no blood on her body. The incredible thing was… Silvia did not even feel the pain. The next moment–– Silvia found out that the tight uniform was no longer binding her. Pieces of clothes like snowflakes were 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, were peeled off, and her almost naked body lay exposed. Coincidentally. The same thing was recently done by Veronica. Her body, which was 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 was 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 was trembling more than ever. But it was not because of fear. She was trembling because she was 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 was not because he had any indecent thoughts. Rather, it was 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, were like Ash. Everyone's eyes were 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 was a terrible shake and just then, in a surge of raging magic, a hole was neatly cut through the floor of the church.

"Sorry to keep you waiting Ash!"

Equipped in their Arks Rebecca and Glenn jumped out from the large, newly created hole in the floor.

“––Enemy ambush!” Avdocha’s men shouted.

In the blink of an eye the soldiers moved into formation and attacked Rebecca and Glenn. The one holding Ash was no exception.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Right after Rebecca summoned her magic spear, Glenn followed 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, swung the sword just like an image of lightning speed. No wonder he was Veronica’s escort’s captain.

"Hmph...... An unsightly person!"

Even as she cursed them Avdocha was still able to smile. Ash couldn't understand how she managed to stay calm. At that time… Avdocha suddenly jumped off the back of the basilisk and rushed toward the back of the altar.

"Is she...!"

Ash, who realised what she was about to do, clenched his teeth. Even when he wanted to continue chasing, the basilisk blocked his way. The basilisk's eyeballs, as it manoeuvred in the way, rotating and continuing to stare at Ash.

"Hehehe. Don’t forget I still have the bombs. It is your loss." laughed Avdocha from back at the altar.

The reinforcements, Rebecca and Glenn, were still fighting the enemy soldiers. As worthy of the people of the mountains they successfully pinned down the Ark-Dragners. Of course,if Rebecca and Glenn showed 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 continued… Then Avdocha was going to press the button. No, before that, he had to deal with the basilisk or else he can’t get himself closer to the altar. The problem was that, for an unarmed human to win against a basilisk, it was indeed a fantasy.

''"Shoo......"''

In that instant. The basilisk issued terrible breath and started stomping around. It moved its limbs with high-speed and, like gliding on the ground, it rushed towards Ash.

"Ha…?’’

Its speed surprised Ash. Although he was conscious about it his two legs refused to move. Ash was jinxed to become a statue as his whole body involuntarily stiffened.

"Uwaaaa!"

Ash helplessly screamed. The basilisk was right in front of him opening its mouth. In his mind there was 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 that time, "Oh... A divine light...!" A hostage muttered with a praising tone.

And the others around him were also affected.

"...?" Silvia wiped off her tears and raised her head. A pale white light filled her entire field of vision. After a short moment the light was no longer be seen, and there was 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 was so hot. His consciousness was almost swept away by the powerful magic.

''『 "- Sorry for the long wait."』''

Eco's voice finally echoed in his mind.

''"It's so scary... Do you know that I was nearly eaten by this thing."''

Ash, who now felt the Ark’s magic, smiled brashly. He looked down to re-examine his own body and he saw 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 were bright red.

"How is this possible? You are also an Ark-Dragner? How did we miss this information-?"

While witnessing the dazzling Ark, Avdocha's almond eyes widened with a look of surprise.

"My Pal is different from the others!" shouted Ash!

At the same time Ash lightly pushed the basilisk’s chin. The basilisk was 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 stepped forward, the basilisk obediently stepped 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!" screamed Avdocha.

“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 twisted 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 panicked, simply looked like a child. While sitting on Kuu's back, Ash was searching for the information regarding his Ark-weapon.

Soon… A strange weapon design 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 narrowed.

Avdocha's face also turned pale.

"Appear!...... The absolute Zero Holy gun––"

Under Ash’s summons, an extremely long gun emerges out of thin air. Its shape was similar to the Empire made sniper rifle and yet also like a spear. Its aim was locked on the altar. While pulling the bolt, ''<nowiki/>'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 ejected with a ''‘Clang’''. It then hit the ground and rolled.

"Uuu ...!"

The shot created a powerful recoil which almost caused Ash to fall from Kuu's back, but fortunately he was in his blue Ark and stayed firm in the saddle. At the same time the magic bullet shot towards the altar, a pale blue flash was seen.

“Kuu. Retreat!”

Kuu, listening to Ash's order and quickly turned around and ran in the direction opposite of the altar.

"What!"

Avdocha cried out in dismay. After the freezing magic was launched… Shining ice crystals were coalescing and 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 were required. However, even though Knight Country and the Kingdom had many exiled scientists from the Empire, the problem was not enough time to recruit, train and deploy them. If that being the case… It was better to risk trying to use the oracle’s power for freezing the bombs to the point they became disabled. This was Ash's basic strategy. Ash asked Eco to produce an Ark with ice properties.

Needless to say… This idea was obtained when he was in the Silvanus' lounge reading the novel ‘The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'. The protagonist in the series ‘Silver Knight’ used the freezing magic to interrupt the operation of the machine.

Of course Ash couldn't guarantee the actual effect in real life. He could only gamble––at least at this stage the bombs that became ice 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 did 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 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 Asia 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 prayed in hope that Veronica will treat it well.

More importantly, he now needs to complete the task that is at hand. Even though he knew his actions were wrong, Ash still climbed up the icy altar and started to rescue Jessica who was 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 became 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 was carrying her, her eyes widened.

"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 ran out, he can only continue wearing it. Clearly there was no way to continue hiding the truth anymore, Ash could only give an excuse to explain it.

"... Yeah. The 'Silver Knight' is me. It's just that today my Ark is not silver in colour."

After Ash honestly confessesed, Jessica’s cheeks turn red.

"To use ice attacks against those mechanical bombs is simply ‘Silver Knight’ himself! Waa-wah. Ash-sama!"

"Sama?"

Ash was stunned. Jessica eyes were now watery. Moreover. Jessica was only wearing her underwear. The cleavage made by her breasts were clearly seen. Even under such occasion, Ash couldn't help but being seduced. In front of the beauty that was Jessica, even the blue Ark's strength couldn't come in handy.

"I have dreamed 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 took off was her panties instead of her bra.

"Your order of taking off your underwear is too strange, or rather, who even asked you to take them off!"

Ash quickly held Jessica's hands to stop her.

"Do not worry."

Jessica sexy lower abdomen was slowly exposed. Eventually, even the following parts were––

"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 was disturbing Ash.

"Uuh!"

Ash inexplicably feels dizzy; and almost fell down from the altar together with Jessica. At this time, Rebecca spoke to Ash from behind.

"Hey, Ash! Hand her to me, you go and take care of Silvia."

Rebecca had long removed her Ark and was helping the escorts to do their tasks. She should have been very busy. However she probably saw that Ash was in trouble and could not bear just being a bystander.

“Sorry to trouble you Rebecca-san."

Ash handed 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 broke into sparkling fragments.

===Part 18===
Silvia was standing against the wall. Her body was wrapped in blankets given to her by the escorts. Her naked body, that has been exposed not long ago, was now wrapped up tightly. The thing was, her curves could 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 became lost and only squeezed out those few words. It was a little embarrassing.

"Ahh. I’m not injured...... You saved me again."

"My performance is nothing much, but rather... Princess you were so cool."

"Y-You... What are you talking about!”

Silvia, who was now blushing, probably lost all her strength, and unsurprisingly stumbled.

"... Careful!"

Ash immediately reached out, and caught Silvia's body. But only after the blanket, wrapped around Silvia’s body, slipped 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 set her down on her feet.

"S-Sorry. That…. My waist ... I just suddenly..."

Silvia's eyes filled with tears as she quickly picked up her blanket and wrapped 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's breasts, pressing on his back were changing their shape.

"...huh!"

"What’s wrong. Ash?"

"N-Nothing ..."

Ash blushed while being unexpectedly stimulated, continued his pace at the same time.

===Part 19===
On her way to the magicship Silvanus while being piggybacked by Ash.

"...?"

Silvia was 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 was so strong that Silvia barely held 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]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4

2018-09-24T12:47:43Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes. Incomplete though.

==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 had 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 opened the door without hesitation but just as he did so… An object, like a cannon, flew into his arms.

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

Eco’s body was soft. Yesterday she probably went to stay in Rebecca's room for the night. She smelled a sweet scent. One that did not tire you of it and yet made you feel refreshed.

"Something wrong?"

Eco’s attitude made Ash feel troubled. The feeling was 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 buried her face in Ash’s chest and was reluctant to let go. Not only did she not let go, but there were also signs that she was hugging him a lot more tightly. The heat from her was transferring to Ash's body. If it was only just that… Then he could have 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 hand into the gap between tie and neck, which barely enabled him to breathe again. At least he was now free from the danger of suffocating. What was wrong with Eco so early in the morning? Her cheeks were bright pink and her eyes were watery. Ash was struggling but Eco continues to attack.

"Huff......"

After making that cute sound… Eco’s feet began to wrap 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 shivered.

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

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

Her half opened lips moved 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 came 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 was now like she was a different person. Her cheeks were getting redder and she stared 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 fell 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 held 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 opened her mouth halfway. Behind her pearl white teeth, a pink tongue was 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 Ansal was harmless to humans, it brought a strong intoxicating effect to the dragons. Like alcohol was to humans… Ansal's smell brought pleasure to dragons. The problem was that Eco was only a young dragon. Even with only a small amount of Ansal the result it brought was hard to predict.

"Come on. Quickly spit it out!"

"Nn....”

Eco exhaled a mouthful of heat, and firmly grasped Ash’s tie. Even though Eco was a petite girl, her strength was still like a dragon. Ash, unable to do anything, could only let her pull him–– Eco, with Ash immobilised, and whose mouth was half-opened with her lips...

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

"...!"

The two sticky and slippery tongues entangled. The unimaginable shock made Ash’s mind go blank and transfixed in place.

"Tee hee..."

During that time of contact, the candy was rolled into Ash’s mouth. Through his mouth, Ash could still feel Eco’s body radiating from the mouth-fed candy, which was melted into half of its original volume. Ash was utterly entranced.

"You… Just now..."

His face was so hot that it felt as if flame was going to burst out from it. Before, Ash was wholly concentrated on the mouth-fed candy. That was why it was only now that Ash found their lips were sticking tightly together. Eco then slowly averted her face, revealing a devilish smile. Thinking hard of what had just happened… Wasn't that his and Eco’s first kiss?

"Nn....”

Suddenly, like a puppet whose strings were cut, Eco fell limp. She buried her face in Ash’s arms and fell into a deep sleep. Seems like the drunken Eco had 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 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 was accidentally swallowed.

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

Rebecca leisurely crossed her arms in front of her chest, as she stood in the doorway. Her face was 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 wore those kind of underwear–– After getting lost in his imagination Ash returned 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 bad 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 was lying on the couch. The Vice President and the Secretary didn't seem like they intended 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 sensed 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 was commonly known as a 'Wanted Poster'. The entire sheet of paper was full of the details of the criminal’s characteristics and looks. The reward offered actually reached up to one million Eccles<ref>The currency in this story. From a town in UK.</ref>. Compared to a normal reward this amount was 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 were well underway. The noise, hustle and bustle of construction and repair 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 suddenly changed into full of cheers.

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

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

"That armour really looks valiant!"

Every worker stopped doing their work as they were 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 were 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, couldn't 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 was looking around aimlessly.

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

"Eco? Is there anything suspicious?"

Ash asked Eco with a nervous voice, 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 was dumbstruck. What Eco liked to eat the most was none-other than the crepes sold in the stall 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 was so disappointed that she showed a dejected expression and there were 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 heard this, Eco immediately smiled dazzlingly.

"...!"

Her smile was like a full blooming rose of which Ash could not help but stare at her deeply.

"Is 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 a pumped up attitude, cleared his throat.

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

In short. His bribery had been successful and Eco will, temporarily, quiet down. After all, he was 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 was 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 Ash was trying to keep Eco calmed down, Veronica’s condolence trip was smoothly being carried out. Apart from the square, the surrounding buildings had also been damaged by the Necromancia. Which was why there were many carpenters working there right now. The carpenter Veronica was talking to seemed 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 was 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 had the blood of a Tantalos. From a young age she had 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 was 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 were yet to be verified but they still 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 was the bell to indicate one o’clock in the afternoon.

"It is already this late...?"

Listening to the solemn bell, Silvia's face suddenly emerged in Ash's mind. The building around St Durham Square had 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 took Silvia’s feelings into account, and his mood was subsequently depressed, something happened.

Suddenly. ''-Boom!''

The sound of an explosion was 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 came up in Ash mind. The location where the black smoke arose were 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 were particularly extreme.

“-Princess please return to Silvanus.”

Glenn’s voice was heard at this time.

"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 interruptted Ash:

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

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

===Part 4===
Silvia arrived at the St Valeria’s Church under Veronica’s order and she did not even bring her maid Cosette with her. St Valeria’s statue was positioned on the altar and was one of the Twelve Apostles who served St Rosa Maria. In the denomination of Rosa Maria's bible; St Valeria was not only portrayed as a woman full of compassion, but also the protector of law. In addition to Silvia, there were also many people who patronised the church. Most of them looked like tourists though. So, those who were like Silvia––who had their own troubles––were of the minority.

“St Valeria. Please forgive my imprudent actions."

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

"St Valeria..."

At this time, someone else right beside Silvia was non-stop praying. That voice felt 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 was so shocked by the other roaring voice that she screamed and fell backwards. Silvia carefully looked at her face.

"...I knew 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 did not understand the reason Silvia was 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 felt her weakness 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's 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 could’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 turned 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."

Lips trembling, Jessica fiercely glared at Silvia.

"Then I’ll ask you... Can you can guarantee that your actions are never related to falsehood?"

"I-I..."

Silvia was also afraid that someone will see through her timid side, which was why she was always pretending to be strong. As one of the Lautreamont Knight Country’s Princess' she was 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 intended 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 seemed to have been an explosion upstairs.

"Kyaa!"

Silvia was so frightened she inadvertently clung to Jessica. Maybe Jessica was equally caught up in the panic she wrapped her arms around Silvia and hugged her hard. Silvia and Jessica’s screams were like a trigger which made 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 am 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 remembered 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 had the face of a child, a petite body, and a childlike appearance, which caused others to disbelieve she was a battle-hardened terrorist. She was totally different from the picture in the wanted poster. But the woman looked at the visitor with a calm expression.

Even while her body looked petite, she was still able to look down from up high. That was 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 caused 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 were well known as close relatives of an Asia, judging from the body's appearance, there was not even a slightest hint that they had 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, were at their posts; They were ready to take off at any time.

"Huhu... It's hard even for me to tolerate this, Glenn." said Veronica who was smiling while sitting on the captain seat.

"Yes. Veronica-sama." nodded Glenn seriously in agreement.

Apart from the escort’s captain Glenn who was by Veronica’s side, the other six escorts were 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.... How 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 crossed 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 was 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 was a lot of static noise, the scene shown on the screen looked like the interior of the St Valeria’s church–– St Valeria’s statue set on the altar statue proved this fact. The only thing was, the screen didn't show the hostages. Of course, that didn't rule out that Silvia could have been abducted.... which made Ash anxiously clench his fists.

At this moment… The projection screen suddenly showed a woman's face.

『 "I am 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 showed the calm demeanor of a royal family.

"She is...'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Ash's eyes widened and he turned 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 were 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 was magnificently decorated with its symbolic totem wing like crucifix. However, there is a person tied to the winged cross.

Ash and the others turned speechless and not just because of Avdocha's fetishes.

"Jessica...?"

Rebecca, who knew her since childhood, muttered blankly.

She was not wrong, the one tied on the winged cross was––the president of the SKFC––Jessica Valentine, of all people. Evidently she seemed to have inadvertently become a hostage.

"That’s t-too much!"

Ash's lips were trembling. Jessica was actually only wearing her underwear. Apart from her underwear and knee socks the rest of her clothing were mercilessly stripped away. The humiliated Jessica was desperately struggling to hold back her tears. Not only that, there are also squiggles on top of her bare belly that read:[[Image:Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi v2 p190.jpg|thumb|The humiliated Jessica was desperately struggling to hold back her tears.]]

''- The Head of Valkyrie!''

"That. Is that text in blood...?"

"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 remarked. Even after witnessing Jessica’s inhumane treatment, Veronica was still so easy going. At this time, the screen slowly moves downwards, and the altar was shown.

"...What is that?"

Ash frowns.

Around the altar, there were black objects that give the impression of a ''"machine"''. Although it was an extremely strange and rarely seen thing, they were filled with a dangerous atmosphere that can never be found coming from equipment within the church.

From the screen Avdocha's voice was 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 clenched his fists. She was threatening that every hour there will be someone who will lose their life. Until the next time the bell rings… there was 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 was 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 were trembling endlessly while still trying to grasp the situation that they were in. The terrorist’s mastermind was 'Avdocha the Convicted’. There were nine soldiers surrounding them.

The nine soldiers give off the feeling that they were from the mountains and were large, muscular men. They were dressed in their folk costumes; With an eagle looking mask on their face they were equipped with the mountain people's usual whip and shamshir<ref>Half-moon shaped dagger.</ref> dagger among others. The nine men seemed to be loyal to Avdocha. In contrast to their savage like looks, they accepted orders just like any regular army soldiers. Avdocha's objective was to defeat Veronica and she probably wanted to take advantage of the 100 hostages to achieve her 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 was 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 tried 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 was almost scared out of her wits. However. Jessica was 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 imagined 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 bore all this, but it was not difficult to tell what she was 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 was not that Silvia didn't have this idea; the problem was, as long there were hostages, there was no way to summon Lancelot while in the church. This space in the church was 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 was disguised as a flower girl, was 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 Ansarivan. She only went to the St Valeria’s Church to gather information but was unfortunately drawn into Avdocha's terrorist act. 'Avdocha the Convict' was a legend in the mountains. Since she was lost in a military operation 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 was 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 was a perfect match with the title 'Avdocha the Convicted'. The record breaking reward amount, one million Eccles, was also a stunner. Anyway, the person herself was 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, was the best evidence that she was 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 were too many things that didn’t fit.

''- Such a terrorist act... is nothing but foolhardy.''

In this world… There were plenty of rebels who recklessly sacrificed their own lives. The Tantalos tribe, since a long time ago, seemed to be popular with suicide attackers. However, judging from the rumors spread on many parts of the mountains, at the very least Avdocha was 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 was the part that made Avdocha so scary and also added some style to her legend. Against such legendary exploits, it was impossible for her to do such a foolhardy act as this......

Anya felt 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. Not to forget each time the bell rang… 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 emigrants, that had the same tanned skin colour as Anya's increasing.

Moreover. There were rumors:

Princess Veronica established a force consisting of foreigners. She also intended to use a different army system for them than from the Knight's army. They were also for other uses. Also, there seemed to be many mountain people who were 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 was disguised as a flower girl… But that woman was 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 was hugging her knees with her hands and her head was buried in between them. This way she did 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 was probably that her act was funny but fortunately the baby also gave a happy grin.

She silently felt relieved within her heart, but at the same time she started 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 was speaking to is Veronica, Rebecca was 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 responded with a confident smile to Veronica.

"Public order of Ansarivan, since ancient times, has been 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 felt anxious. Since Silvia was taken as hostage, and the vice president and secretary were nowhere in sight as usual, the candidates left behind were the trio of Rebecca, Max, and Ash.

Of course, everyone knew that Rebecca was the most suitable person for this task, but -

"I recommend Ash Blake as negotiator."

Rebecca made a very surprising recommendation.

"Huh?"

Ash suspected he'd heard it wrongly.

"That... Rebecca-san, you're serious about it?"

Just when Ash was 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 replied 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 the officers who were in charge of the steering and the communication secretly peeped at Ash as if he was a suspicious person.

"Wait! Don’t talk any nonsense that’ll make people misunderstand!"

The ‘meat slave’ that Eco means was 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 were 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 was 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 was stunned.

"You are really strange. If there is any other meaning… Why don’t you speak it out loud?"

Veronica replied with a serious expression. As if she only knew this meaning. Eco and Veronica's thinking seemed to have something in common.

"Yes, you're right! That’s what Eco’s ‘meat slave‘ means!"

After Ash grasped the opportunity to explain… The atmosphere of the navigation room finally calmed down. Finally, Ash escaped from those sharp glares and he let out a sigh of relief, but the most fundamental problem was not yet solved.

"In short, without my permission, you'll never be going to send him there!"

Eco, who was stubborn, refused to back down. Similarly, like her, Rebecca looked like she wasn'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 was not unreasonable. If Ash was with the terrorists he would not greet Rebecca with open arms either.

"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 could only smile. Rebecca's technique was really amazing. He didn't know whether it was 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 was so close that they could sense each other's breath. Even when it was 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 didn't understand what she meant.

"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, was 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 understood Rebecca's intentions; he knew she did not mean to ill treat him. Max, who still remained in the stage of a Dragner, can only show his true colours when he was riding his dragon. 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 was very suitable for this kind of combat. Rebecca was right, despite the time constraints, Ash had that ability and 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 Ansarivan, 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 did 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 was puzzled.

"Huh? How do I know whether I can do it or not?"

"No. You can do it." smiled Ash with confidence 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 remembered the tie clip. This was given to him by the communication officer before departing. Inside The tie clip, even though it looked ordinary, a small piece of Bright-Dragon-Crystal was inside and it sent any sound it received back to the Silvanus' navigation room. To put it bluntly. It was an ultra-micro magic communication tool. Only then Ash realise that this type of machinery existed in this world.

Who would think that he would actually take on such a chore? Ash couldn't help but secretly cry. But Rebecca's analysis was very reasonable; He couldn't deny that he was the most suitable person to play this role. After all Ash as a student, was unknown to the public but at the same time he had 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 trousers. He then maintained his speed and continued to walk forward. Rebecca and Glenn should now have departed towards the church through the underground tunnels. Just when Ash was 20 meters from the main entrance of the church––

''-Shoo!''

Beside his ears, a whizzing sharp sound was heard and the stone on the ground was 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 was clearly a warning. If the sniper had the intention to kill, that shot probably would have killed Ash. After realizing he was one step away from death, Ash had a cold sweat. But he can't retreat at a time like this. Because Silvia was a hostage 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 did not think he sounded convincing but the ‘Student Council’ in this academy town held a great position. Since Avdocha was 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 hoped 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 was led to the altar. Fortunately. the soldiers didn't notice the tie clip and Ash was 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 was not moving Ash thought that she was dead. However. With a closer look there was still a sign of breathing in her chest. It seems that she just lost consciousness. The red text written on her belly was more shocking than 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 was able to find her.

"...!"

With a stunned look Silvia stared at Ash. Ash nodded slightly for Silvia to be at ease and moved 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 sound loud 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 understood why Avdocha deliberately brought up the sister topic. Because she wanted Veronica to also taste the same bitter feeling. Avdocha was not likely to let Silvia off lightly once she was exposed. Unfortunately, there were no signs that Rebecca and Glenn were about to break into the church.

''- Are you alright Eco...?''

With a desperate feeling Ash focused his attention on his left arm’s ‘Seikoku’. Through this 'Seikoku' Eco and Ash were able to communicate.

''- Eco... Can you hear me?''

But Eco did not respond.

===Part 11===
--- Dragon Workshop ---

This is but a space used by dragons to create their works. Even though Eco only had some knowledge about this space there was no doubt that this place was different from the real world. If the real world was defined as the physical world, then this can be compared to the spiritual world. Since they were 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 was protected in Silvanus's navigation room so she didn't need to worry about the safety of her body. The floor was paved with checkerboard like white and black square tiles. On the wall, there were 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 was not good at dealing with her. Today Navi was wearing a dark red dress and was sitting on an antique chair. When I grow up, will I become like her? Eco hated to look at her. Even her horns were 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 talked 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 form' and let him ride on you...Then you may be addicted to that feeling."

''“'True Form'?”''

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 was very unhappy with Navi's long-winded behaviour… Conditions did not allow her to continue to waste 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 were well over a thousand. What Eco can do now, was to extract the parts which were 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 was in the enemy’s den, and also for her favorite crepes, Eco could 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 had to leave this church alive, otherwise there was no meaning behind this. Not only each time the bell rings, they will kill a hostage… Veronica was 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 was… Anya was 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 was that the situation was still at 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 touched 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 couldn't produce any milk, and the baby's mother was 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 was cursing in the bottom of her heart, the baby started to fondle her breast. All of a sudden it squeezed it with its hands, and the next moment it rubbed them with its face. Compare to its mother’s breasts Anya’s were a lot smaller. Maybe the baby is troubled with the difference between the two?

Finally, through the clothing, the baby actually bit Anya’s nipples.

"...... Ah!"

Under the strange sensation… Anya let out a weird noise. That caused 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 turned sour...

"Woo Woo ... ''hick…'' ... Waaaaaa!"

It suddenly burst into tears. Anya looks ashed, even when she tried to please the baby, but it was a complete failure. She couldn't be blamed for this because she had never taken care of a child

''- Damn...... if Avdocha......''

However, in only five seconds, Anya’s worries become reality.

"So noisy...... Can’t a mother of the Knight country discipline her child properly?"

Anya, still hidden in the crowd, felt 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 took action.

''––I-It can’t be!'' Anya was horrified.

Avdocha actually wanted to feed the winged lizard with her and the baby......

One step, two steps. The soldiers moved through the crowd and were coming nearer. Since their expressions couldn't be seen under the mask, many people shuddered.

“Uuu..."<ref>Voice of being scared.</ref> The crowd moaned. Anya was scared and begins to shed tears. Even though Anya has cheated death a few times, and was a veteran, she still couldn't withstand Avdocha's heavy pressure and her mind instantly turned blank. The soldiers were now closer.

''"I can’t be saved anymore...!"''

Just when Anya gave up hope––

"Hold on!"

A loud voice echoed in the church and someone came forward to stand in front of Anya. The first thing that emerged in Anya’s eyes was 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 her child!"

===Part 13===
The voice in the church, through the magic communicator in Max’s hand, was 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 was 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 was 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]]
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</noinclude>

Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 3

2018-09-24T11:14:30Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and some restructuring..

==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 was actually the name of a fictional company. In other words… This was 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 had 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 was that, surprisingly, there were only a few sightings and reports which caused the investigations to run into a bottleneck. So far, the information related to the true identity of the 'Silver Knight' was still not yet known. After all, as the people who happened to be there were in chaos, such a result was not surprising. The ones who had the most precise grasp of the situation, perhaps, were none other than Milgauss and Anya who were witnesses to the scene of the incident.

As a result… What was presently and widely spoken were just rumors and thus they couldn't find any valuable clues. No. There was 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 so happened that, because of some difficulties, Anya was afraid to inform Milgauss of this. If she did report this to him, it would be 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 would 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 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 had wheat-coloured skin and dark hair. He was 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 was the leader of a Tantalos tribe. No matter how familiar he was to her, there would still be hierarchy, otherwise it would be impossible to rule the others.

"So then what happened that is wrong?"

"Th-That is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie' just came to visit Ansarivan, has caused quite a stir."

"What?!"

Anya’s eyes widened.

'Ironblood Valkyrie'- The Lautreamont Knight Country’s first Princess. Princess Veronica. Her reputation had shaken the whole continent. Veronica intervened in many ethnic strifes around the continent thus increasing the loss of various guerrilla forces. This also included many Tantalos fighters. It was not exaggerating to say she was an enemy to all Tantalos.

"How long is Veronica expected to stay?"

"According to official sources. Five days......"

If she rushed there non-stop she would arrive at Ansarivan in three days. For Anya, who trained in the mountainous areas, it was but a slight distance. It has long been known that Ansarivan's defence was very weak and vulnerable. If she took a gamble… She 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 wa all the same… Milgauss' command was supreme and not to be defied. Milgauss had only ordered them to spy. Even if it was a godsend opportunity 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, were the Tantalos who had followed Anya down from the mountains to assist Milgauss. They were also Anya’s subordinates.

"I, I 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 was because she knew that those who were always careless were not fit for spying activities. The rest, since they heard the name 'Veronica', got carried away by their emotions, Anya understood this. The problem was that blindly provoking the Knight country was 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, did not have the strength that was on an equal footing with the Dragons. They still had 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 rushed out of the room.

===Part 2===
"It is not suitable for me...... is what I should say, unfortunately, it does suit me."

Ash, who was forcibly taken to the airship Silvanus, had put on the attire of a butler for the first time in his life. His black tuxedo gave out an extra formal feeling, and there was a white bow tied at his neckline. With the exception of his left hand which was wrapped up in bandages like usual, it was better to say that he used 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 was frozen in front of the mirror turned around, the owner of the voice opened the door and walked into the dressing room. She was dressed in a 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 nice 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 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 was grabbing the maid's breast. He was shocked, because her breast was not only soft, but 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 recovered from the ground and reached out his hand to give the maid a lift. The maid, somehow quite adorably, blushed while she held his hand. Only then, again, did Ash face 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 sounded 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 a deja Vu. The only thing was… Prim gave off a more matured feeling than Cosette. Especially her body, as he remembered 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 explained:

"You have misunderstood. I did not come here to work!"

"Err. Is that so?"

Prim was 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 by 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?"

Ash couldn't help but sigh at Prim’s simple question.

"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 was none other than the culprit, Veronica! As usual she was in her suit of armour, majestically standing in the doorway.

"Princess!"

Prim was shocked, but still respectfully bowed. In contrast. Ash couldn't help but burst out roaring:

"Not bad. I really wish that you will immediately tell me!"

"I'll tell you why–– Because it's fun."

Ash doubted 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 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 and said

"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 was 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 and complete it on her behalf. This confused many people regarding who was the real senpai<ref>Literally senior.</ref>. There was a huge mountain of work that needed to be done. So much so that Ash realised it was already nightfall only after the sky had turned dark. According to Prim the ship was now in its rest state so typically, strictly speaking, there was less work. The workload during flight increased drastically. This gigantic machine can actually carry dozens of crew and cargo during flight–– Even now it was 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 and started his meal. The menu tonight was walnut bread, vegetable stewed duck, cabbage and corn salad. There was not much difference in eating this compared to the students’ restaurant. The taste was not too bad, but it was not so good that someone will shed tears in appreciation. Ash suddenly remembered an image of Veronica's dinner. The dishes that Veronica ate were similar to his. It seemed that, rather than the taste, she paid 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 was born in the form of a delicate and charming girl she was no exception. For now Ash didn't have any spare energy to take care of Eco, so he could only look forward to Cosette’s and Rebecca's help. After eating Ash looked around the lounge. The bookshelf placed beside the wall had novels and manuals. Anyway, there was still time to rest, so Ash walked towards the bookshelf to look for books that he was interested in. In the end he found a title that aroused his curiosity.

"This is... 'The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'?"

The bookshelf had volumes one to nine of the series. The books seemed to be very popular. and came in sizes that can be put into a bag and easily carried around. The cover illustration seemed to depict girls who were 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 was angry and had complained… Ash decided to read this one. Since he couldn't find any other more interesting books, and at least it was better than nothing. The protagonist Kane was 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 and 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' appeared and successfully saved her out of the woods and also 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 this interesting."

In the story, the efforts that Kane made in order to avoid his true identity from being revealed would make people cry. This made Ash think about himself. In the second half of the story; Kane was in a bitter struggle with a mysterious dragon. The results were 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 was Kane going to fight against it? ––Ash was attracted to the exciting plot and quickly flipped the page. Later… Kane used ice magic to freeze the dragon's control device, reducing the temperature low enough until its power supply malfunctioned, forcing the device to cease functioning.

Therefore, the story ended 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? Is something wrong? 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" was heard, and there was 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 it, so just walk in boldly."

Even though Prim gave him a nudge while smiling, Ash, no matter what, stood still. Veronica was in the bathroom with her armour ''off''. This was most clearly evident by the outline of her body, shown on the frosted glass that separated the bathroom and the dressing room. Needless to say… That outline was 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 were 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 resort 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 moved his sight away, he still could not help but comment.

"Hey! Prim, could you please not intervene!"

The four maids pushed Prim aside and surrounded 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 were all women, even if Ash tried to resist, he couldn't do so too roughly... Before Ash could make up his mind his tuxedo and shirt were stripped off and even his undergarments were cast aside.

"Urgh..."

After the bandage on his left hand is also removed mercilessly by the maids, Ash, completely naked, was 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 turned the warm water from clear to a cloudy white. Although the bathroom was 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 was that because of the big bathtub, he was able to keep a safe distance from Veronica. If they were too close it would be difficult not to pay attention to Veronica’s nude body. Veronica, who could not understand Ash’s thoughts, started the conversation.

"Is something wrong? You seem unhappy."

"Who do you think the culprit is..." accused Ash.

"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."

Even 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 dragner 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 believed that there is no place safer than this ship. At this time, through the frosted glass, a maid reported 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 was dumbfounded.

"Princess?"

Silvia was standing in the doorway of the bathroom… Naked! The phrase "The Fourth Princess” and Silvia's face finally connected. Even though his vision was blurred because of water vapor… The dazzling beauty of Silvia couldn't 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 appeared that Silvia hadn't been notified that Ash was also present. Of course, this was also because she firmly believed that there are only women present in the bathroom.

Silvia’s body was 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 was 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 the 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 was very much aware of Veronica because Silvia maintained a fairly wide distance. On the other hand she was sitting closer towards Ash.

"What are you afraid about? Sit a little closer." Prodded Veronica.

"Y-Yes ..."

Silvia moved slightly closer. Even so, she was still three meters away from Veronica. She was now almost in the middle, position wise, of Veronica and Ash. Veronica, looked 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?" Silvia seemed 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 that? 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 the 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."

"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 was only listening, Ash also couldn't help but feel embarrassed.

"What are you talking about, Anee-ue!"

"If you 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 looked 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, stood 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 was furious; Veronica was 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 was right as Silvia’s eyes were wandering. Moreover, even though Veronica had been soaking in the water for a longer time, Silvia's face was redder.

“-Uwaa!”

Only then did Ash remember that he was naked and immediately sank his body in the water.

===Part 7===
The Imperial game began the next day which was organised by the students. This so-called Imperial game, to put it bluntly, was 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 activities was a well-established tradition of the dragon riding Academy. Even during the time Ash was away to serve Veronica, the preparations for the Imperial game were still running normally in the arena. Even Veronica, who had always been rigorous and comprehensive, did not reject this tradition and promised to attend the match.

The game event was–– 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 was looking on from the arena’s VIP seats, and today she was also dressed in heavy armour. Captain Glenn McGuire, still equipping 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 attempted 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, 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 had 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 audiences' cheers reached up into the sky her voice was still loud and clear.

"Well... In a way."

"What’s to worry 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 was halfway through explaining…..

"Found you!" yelled Eco while rushing to him.

Although the escorts led by Glenn immediately put on an alert posture, it was also clear to them the incoming person was someone who could be excluded from the use of force. Veronica also lifted her hand and waved for them to stop.

"What are you messing around… Right here?!"

When Eco closed the distance she immediately leaped, doing 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 was severely kicked, and Ash painfully moaned out loud while kneeling down on the spot. Eco glared angrily at Ash who was suffering without any reason.

“You better get ready… Hurry up! How am I able to play this game if you aren't present! "

Ash was 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 was 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, who became 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 of an Ark-Dragner crawling while lying on the ground. Moreover, the rules prohibit the use of magic!"

The two of them were having a argument. At last… Eco gave in. She seemed 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." lectured Veronica.

"... 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 was staring at Veronica, the whistle signifying the start of the game was 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 was 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 was suspended because Silvia temporarily lost consciousness. Veronica, looked at the running Ash and muttered:

"That kid... He didn't even hesitate to run towards a group of dragons. He sure has some guts."

"Hmm. What’s so strange about that?"

Eco snapped at Veronica.

“But it seems that he isn't used to women." laughed Veronica cheekily.

Eco continued questioning her without giving up:

"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 to 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 to make people angry just by having them look at you!” yelled Eco.

While Eco was angrily stomping around… Glenn quietly whispered 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 was 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 was resumed.

===Part 9===
"Err ..."

The instant she opened her eyes... she was greeted by the familiar chandeliers. This was the girl’s dormitory––The top floor of Epona, inside the royal family’s room–– and 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 did 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 remembered the incident that happened, but after that she completely failed to recall anything.

“- Ow!”

She looked on her body, and found out that she was not wearing a dragonsuit, but pajamas. 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 was 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<ref>A boudoir is a woman's private sitting room or salon in a furnished accommodation usually between the dining room and the bedroom, but can also refer to a woman's private bedroom.</ref>!

“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... Carried 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 were also many others who were injured..."

"Today's nurse office is simply no different from a field hospital." added Cosette with a wry smile.

"Once the doctors 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 were 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 spoke so confidently–– Silvia's heart could not help but feel moved and beat 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 was indeed the truth. Maestro Cú Chulainn was 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 was 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 smiled.

Her thoughts were seen through completely.

"Haa... I am simply unworthy of becoming Lancelot's master."

Silvia became ashamed and couldn't help but say some discouraging words.

"You don't have to belittle yourself!..."

Ash, even though puzzled, tried to comfort her but she became 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 realized 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 was terribly frightened, but the name from the warden mouth was 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 uses a very polite form of speaking or what we call 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 was 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 remained, but people could not feel any change in his expressions. The feeling one got, while looking at his face, was 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 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 that is so, as you can see, I do not have any serious problems. Are you satisfied?"

She obviously doesn't want to say this, but Silvia still blurted 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 that so......"

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 that 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 responded:

"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 that so?"

Even though marriage was a lifetime event… Glenn's attitude was cold, and almost without feeling.

"...... There is nothing more. You may leave."

Glenn respectfully bowed and got ready to leave the room, but––

"This is the first time I've seen such a detestable carrier pigeon."

Unexpectedly, from the side, Ash called 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 threw 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 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 in contrast to Ash, Silvia was not being stared at her, yet her whole body was trembling, and her fingers and knees were 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 also couldn't believe it.

===Part 10===
"Damn... Who the hell does he think he is."

While complaining angrily, Ash walked around the room. Presumably… He was annoyed at Glenn for not being able to talk it over with him. It seemed that it never occurred 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 sat down obediently on the chair beside the bed, it was still difficult to banish the feeling of hatred.

"Princess… Aren't you angry? In any case. His attitude is a little too cold!" rambled Ash, a bit incoherently.

"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 something 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 of the felony Anii-ue committed not only was the Lautreamont Royal Family hurt 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 was sudden knock on the door. Silvia, who was traumatized by recent events, shrank in to a ball. At first they thought Glenn came back, but the truth was......

"I’m entering."

The one swinging open the door was actually Rebecca.

"President!"

Rebecca moved towards the bedside and looked at Silvia's face, beginning an explanation...

"Just then, I didn’t hold back. Looking at you with a murderous aura while rushing over, I couldn't help but show my real ability. I have reflected on my immaturity."

Silvia was terrified and 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 deal with her but......"

"I'm sorry, but now, Princess’s problem alone has already caused me a lot of problem."

Standing against the wall, Cosette bowed and apologized 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 interrupted 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, stated the impossible conditions like she was gloating, . 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]]
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| 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

2018-09-24T09:15:27Z

Foggy glasses: Grammar changes and rewrite of some sentences... Seriously though I need to review this again.

==Chapter 2 - Ironblood Valkyrie==
===Part 1===
The following morning, Ash was having his ecology class.

Eco, as usual, was also attending class in her uniform. But since the lecture was too abstruse…

"Huff… Puff…"

She was fast asleep on the table.

"…In other words; Stradas' element is wind, Asias' element is wind/earth and Hydras' element is water."

The one standing on the lectern, lecturing all the students, was Professor Angela. She had an unusual concern for Eco as a researcher, so Ash did not wish to let her gain opportunities to approach Eco…

"Well, then what is a Maestro’s element?"

Angela questioned with a stern tone as her eyes fell on the class register.

"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 remained 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.

"Right… is what I would like to say, but unfortunately you were only half-right. A Maestro’s element is light, but it'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 something wrong with the Princess?"

Raymond, who was not paying attention to Angela’s explanation, asked Ash.

Ash sighed.

"She… she has been out of it since she heard that the Ironblood Valkyrie was coming to Ansarivan. It looks like she has received a great and devastating blow…"

Raymond seemed confused.

"‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ is the princess’s elder blood sister, 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 were serving the royals. It was hard not to notice her.

"Hehehe. Since Her Royal Highness The Princess is dispirited, I must guard her quietly from the shadows. I have also received the permission of Angela-sensei."

"You call this 'quietly from the shadows'? Anyways, I'm concerned about the reason she is suffering."

"Are you concerned for her as her classmate or as a man?"

Ash suddenly felt his cheeks turn hot.

"Y-You… What are you talking about!? The princess and I have fought alongside each other as comrades and we are both members of the Student Council. It's normal that I’m concerned about her."

"Are you sure? Then let's leave it at that. 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 the princess was forced to do a lot of training when she was young."

“The training… was it tough?"

"In fact… I’m not exaggerating when I say she was living in hell every day. The princess had not only been pushed into lakes, she was also sent into ruins to do explorations, climbed the city walls and was brought to well-known haunted forests to learn to survive in the wild… "

Ash was 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…"

Her violent attitude aside, it seemed that Veronica had a lot of personality problems. Ash, as one of the Student Council members, must greet this 'difficult' princess. He had a headache just from imagining it.

"The title ‘Ironblood’ is not just for show. However, Ash… I also like women who are strong." muttered Raymond with a grin.

"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, would not be interrupted.

"Ash. Please answer this question."

"What? Me?"

Called rather abruptly, Ash appeared to have felt embarrassed. Angela's sight was as sharp as a scalpel. Just 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 as he silently stood up from his seat.

“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 is yet to be found out."

Angela closed the textbook and looked around the students.

"Old records show that all dragons will eventually become a Maestro naturally. However, since recovering from the verge of extinction, the conversion 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 this.

"That is why the existence of breeders has been called into question. Why is it that now, in modern times, dragons that die before they become a Maestro have become the majority…? Perhaps the key factor to becoming a Maestro is in the hands of a breeder."

The school bell, that announced the class's dismissal, sounded at that time. Silvia, with Cosette's assistance, shakily left the classroom. Meanwhile, Ash had this uneasy feeling.

"The Princess is alright, right…?"

There were six more days before Princess Veronica’s visit… Even though Silvia still couldn't calm down, the day of Princess Veronica’s visit was nearing. Why did Veronica choose this time to visit Ansarivan?

"Officially, this visit is being made 'to inspect the City of Ansarivan, which was under attack'. But according to rumours, Veronica is coming as 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 was probably a cover. The true reason was to investigate the condition of the city and the strength of the Necromancia – this was Rebecca's view on the matter. In fact, Veronica had been involved in the strife between races all across the continent and she even had the experience of stopping a war. It was 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 also braver than anyone on the battlefield. She led the way and charged forward, chopping down the enemy mercilessly one by one. There was 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 was no swordsman whose skills were on par with her. Veronica became famous after she killed a basilisk with just her sword alone. Even poet laureates turned her achievements into poetry. Basilisks were big violent lizards. Some saw them as a close relative of the Asia.

This famous Veronica was given the nickname ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’ by the people. According to Rebecca, once people heard that Veronica was coming to Ansarivan, they suddenly frowned. Veronica, in order to extinguish the flames of war on the continent, heroically fought in a 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 could tell that the chief of Ansarivan was 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 coat for her rarely seen formal dress, also joined the welcoming party. Angela, who unexpectedly became a lecturer recently, was in fact a national treasure who was given much authority to do 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. Usually, 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 preference to keep things simple. They even received prior notice to dispense with all complicated ceremonies, so even the school was operating as usual. The Student Council was represented by Rebecca, Max, Ash, as well as Eco. Not only that, but the figures of Maestro Cú Chulainn and Maestro Arianrhod could also be seen.

Cú Chulainn was Rebecca's Pal and was also truly the Academy’s strongest Maestro. His silver fur was really dazzling and his unbelievable growth made it unable to put on any mounting gear on his mammoth like body. It made anyone who saw him stare, dumbfounded. Arianrhod was Max's Pal, and although already a noble Maestro, his age is still that of a child. Different from the imposing Cú Chulainn, he was filled with an atmosphere that made people to pamper him.

"Hey, Eco, are you 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 was wearing the same black dress that she wore during the ceremony before. It seemed she had 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 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…!"

The 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 her hair was also 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 was 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.

"Is that so? Well, 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 it, 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 and said:

"That is Princess Veronica’s personal plane–– The magicship ‘Silvanus’."

===Part 3===
—Silvanus.

This was done by Princess Veronica as she had gathered many exiled scientists of the Zepharos Empire who successfully developed the beta version of the ship. Silvanus, which looked 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 a lake, the landing was very stable. The magicship design was based on a streamlined shape, which often made people think that it was a Maestro with outspread wings. The red lines together with the white colored armour produced a stunning appearance. Attached at many locations across the body of the magicship were the cannons’ trapdoors.

Ash stared at the magnificent magicship dumbly. He had heard so much about Silvanus but this was 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 magic and Mechanical Engineering technology from the Empire to construct the Silvanus."

"So, literally, it is 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 have a smaller size, but it also has defensive 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 escorts precisely landed each of their dragons on the ground. Out of the seven Dragners, only the leading one had an Ark. He was likely the escort’s captain.

"Veronica is going to alight the ship so please do not whisper." scolded Rebecca, with a low voice.

Ash and Silvia had no choice but to keep their mouths shut. As the crowd watched Silvanus' door slowly open accompanied by the operating noise of it's gears, 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…'' thought Ash.

It is not surprising that she is Silvia’s sister, the two of them looked identical. Their dazzling blond hair and white skin was their common feature. However, the aura of command, emitted by the tall slender figure, outshone Silvia's. The important thing was her eyes -- Like an eagle that fixed on its prey from up high. Her eyes were as sharp as blade. Just by being stared at by her, it would feel 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 was powerful like a highly resilient whip. When the cloak was flipped up, the armour adorning Veronica’s limbs became instantly exposed. Obviously they were crafted with steel, heavy and dazzling. Only then did Ash realize that the unusual sounds of footsteps were the sounds of her sabatons<ref>Foot guards or iron boots, generally not found on most armour.</ref> striking the ground. She wore a broad sword which required both hands to wield. Presumably that sword was the weapon that drew the blood of numerous rebels and the basilisk. Veronica, leading the seven escorts, began marching their 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 spoke with such fluency was calmer than what he had expected. Ash quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

However-

The next instant, Ironblood Valkyrie revealed her true nature that matched 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 somersault 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 was the first time seeing Silvia laugh that way.

"How dare you make fun of 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." muttered Rebecca softly, standing beside Ash.

It seemed 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 was 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 was––

"Cosette?"

Ash was dumbfounded.

The 20 people from the welcome party led by the mayor also became 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 not 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 didn’t she 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 made 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, was 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 left with a serious expression on her face.

===Part 4===
Under the gaze of the welcome party and guard 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 haven't grown 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 swung 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 praised."

Ash was surprised. Because the one who drove out the Necromancia was no other than Ash himself!

"But what did you do? Even though there was someone who witnessed Lancelot flying in the sky, but… you were helplessly circling aimlessly in the sky, right?"

Silvia became 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 was 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 was anxious, but Veronica naturally didn't not know about this, and thus she declared:

"Accept the punishment, Silvia."

Among those watching… there was no one who wasn't looking pale.

Veronica pulled out a the broad-sword hanging around her waist and before there was 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!"[[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.'']]

"Doctor, quickly call for a doctor!"

The welcome party members moaned one after another. 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 witnessed Silvia’s <Seikoku> Ash suddenly sensed something strange, although confused, but now was not the time to be concerned about such problems. Veronica looked coldly at Ash’s action and then 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 wear 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 was holding back for a long time suddenly exploded. Even though he faced the first Princess, he couldn't 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 turned a deaf ear. Logically speaking the one who should be the first to stop Ash ought to be Rebecca but without knowing what she was thinking or maybe she was just waiting for a nice show… She didn't comment on anything.

Ash sternly talked 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 was the Dragner who he suspected was the captain of the escort. The man had a beautiful face, and there was nothing wrong in calling him good-looking. Just that his pair of eyes hidden under his Ark had 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 felt free from the sword he broke out into a cold sweat. It was lucky that the sword pointing at him was 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 replied with her elegant response to 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 sudden 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 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 made even Cú Chulainn, Arianrhod, Eco and the other Dragons feel fear.

There was a rumour in the society–– It is said that the reason that Veronica was not chosen as a breeder during the 'Orphan Ceremony', was that the Mother Of Dragons 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 was swinging his limbs and struggling. But the more Ash struggled… Glenn’s hands, holding his body, became tighter and tighter. That kind of strength surprised everyone and maybe it was the Ark that 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 did not appear to be visiting Ansarivan for the first time, as she was familiar with the environment, she headed directly to and opened the door of the guest room.

––In the beginning, there were 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' was not as simple as its literal meaning, but to find and to remove suspicious persons and or items which acted as a cypher. Even Ash understood this. This was Ash's first time in the guest room. Anyhow, since Ansarivan was a special Academy for dragon breeders, naturally there were always a lot of domestic and foreign nobles who came 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, were all imported from the Chevron Kingdom.

Unfortunately, Ash couldn't enjoy such a classy atmosphere.

"Glenn, put that kid on the chair."

"Yes, Princess." answered Glenn, without any expression.

Ash was dragged to then nearby chair and was made to 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 was, without a doubt no match for him. With some rope and binding tools, Ash was easily tied onto the chair, and he even lost his own ability to stand up.

"What do you want!?"

A 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, they even dared to talk about courtesy. Unfortunately, Ash’s complaints were completely ignored.

"But, Veronica-sama, this student is way too 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 was 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 was Angela.

Beside Angela was Rebecca with a bitter smile.

"You still cause a lot of trouble. Ash. "

So-

The meeting with Veronica was going to start with the absence of the mayor, the council and the principal.

===Part 6===
Even though she was in the guest room, Veronica refused to take off her armour. This made Ash remember about the Valkyries in fairy tales.

"That armour… isn’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 was stunned, Veronica looked around the crowd.

"We will sit right there."

Following Veronica’s proposal everyone moved towards the sofa. Angela, Rebecca, and Eco followed in sequence until they were sitting opposite to Veronica.

"Uh … What about me?"

Seeing that the sofa seemed 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 he was 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 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 forestall 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 stared at Ash without warning.

"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 grinned 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 didn't know where he was 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 considered 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 repelled––Young Dragon Eco."

To help Eco to get rid of her embarrassment, Angela respectfully explained.

"Oh. This shorty?… I see, when you look closely, there are horns on her head."

Veronica's eyes suddenly shined.

"Then you must quickly transform and show it to me."

"Huh? What am I going to transform?" Eco impetuously looked 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… that 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, was curiously and wildly interested, seemingly from the depths of her heart. She intended to scrutinize Eco. Angela then explained with a bitter smile:

“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 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-order to you instantly show the Ark you wore when defeating the Necromancia. And also, not letting the others help you, show me how you got loose from being tied."

After hearing that, Ash understood why Veronica wanted him to be tied up. All of that was for this moment. Perhaps she thinks that, when Ash is in the ark, it would be child's play for him to break himself free from those ropes! Veronica even gave her orders as Princess.

The situation did not easily allow either Eco or Ash to refuse.

"Are you able to do it, Eco?" asked Ash nervously.

But Eco replied with confidence:

"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 closed her eyes while beginning to chant incantations.

"Almete, Gorjal, Peto, Espaldar…"

Even this was Ash’s first time witnessing the process of Eco constructing the Ark.

"Brafoneras, Faldaje, Escarcelas …"

Veronica, who always looked calm before, was witnessing the whole process with a nervous expression. Rebecca, was also observing Eco with a keen look. Even Glenn, who was normally emotionless, unconsciously glanced at Eco.

“Bufetas, Hombreras, Brazales, Codales, Antebrazos, Manoplas… "

As for Angela, she quickly took out a pen and paper and recorded the detail of the situation.

"Quijotes, Guardas, Grebas, Escarpes…"

The only thing was, although it was a very solemn ceremony, since Ash was the only one to be tied to a chair, he had 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 felt his own body coated by powerful magic.

––Similar to that time…!

Ash remembered the fight with the Necromancia. The <Seikoku> on his left arm glowed and became 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 couldn't 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 have the feel of its creator at all."

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 was undeniable that Eco was still a young dragon and did 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. As far as I know, he is the only person who can ride other people's pal and his own. "

"I see. So that 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 have never 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 that 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."

Veronica’s tone angered Ash.

"This is not a sideshow! Although it is just temporarily 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 was also unexpected.

"I-I. How are we a couple?!"

"Hmm. A weird reaction, which makes people unsatisfied… 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 flipped back her cloak and left the room with Glenn, carrying the resisting Ash, following her.

"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

2018-09-24T07:00:45Z

Foggy glasses: Minor grammar changes

==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 this 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, 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 honourable 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 (Silver 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 was 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 just 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. And so 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 the 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 then, did the dense Ash ask in amazement. There were classes to 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 skipped 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."

"Could su-such a thing 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, is Bright Dragon Crystals 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 and so she 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 who 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!”

Someone suddenly pulled his sleeve. He was surprised and his thoughts returned to reality.

"Eco... Is there something wrong??"

"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 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 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 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 that can't tolerate even a single speck of dust’ 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."

"Something?"

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 to have a 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 is 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 that 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’ was powerful enough to defeat that Necromancia. Moreover, he was 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.

"With 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 the 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 with everyone’s attention focused on the suspicious group which had 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 and 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, 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 it. 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. She was obviously shaken when Jessica hit the bull’s eye. It would be 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 as 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 more but 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 no different; She was the only one showing no signs of fear.

"Ash, stay calm! She's a noble!"

Raymond gave a out loud warning but Ash was 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, both of them 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 that 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…... That 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!" cried Eco.

===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 was changed into homeroom. Even though the students of Ansarivan possesed 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 job 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." said Rebecca and 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, he decided in the end that 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 other'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 has a particularly strong sense for nobility, and even now she 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's 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 was 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 cheekily spoke 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 had a good reason to doubt. Rebecca was not only an Ark Dragner but was also the president of the school’s student council. She was 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 came to her. To take Rebecca as her rival. No matter how you think of it, it was not normal.

"Jessica ...... in fact, she is very motivated for her own self improvement, but it is always futile or she is very persistent in doing things that are meaningless. I cannot deny that she is one of those who think 'they 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 had some skill.

"In conclusion. The SKFC, that Jessica leads, wants to expose the true identity of the 'Silver Knight'. If their objective was only that 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 seemed to be ashamed and embarrassed to enunciate that word. It was rare that Eco was 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! 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 that!"

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 looked 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 were not smiling in the slightest.

"I-I understand ......"

Eco was reluctant to sit down on her seat. Perhaps her animal instinct made her detect Rebecca's 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’ was 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 started to act arrogant again.

"In short… Jessica is not the kind of person who would 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 in this academy. It would be harsh on her if it were to be exposed…… Now on to the main topic."

Rebecca placed her elbows on the table with her fingers overlapping, then she gently lifted her beautiful chin. Ash noticed that Rebecca was worrying about something. How tough was the problem that she was facing?

"The thing is… I received a message… The first princess of Lautreamont, Veronica Lautreamont, will be coming to Ansarivan to visit for a week."

After they heard this news, everyone knew the seriousness of this situation. They all suddenly turned solemn and silent, but right at the next second……

"Noooooo……!"

Silvia was moaning abnormally.

"What's wrong, Silvia?"

Rebecca was concerned about Silvia, but she 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 was trembling and turned pale as if the end of the world was coming. She huddled up and hid under the table. She was shaking with her hands protecting her head. Silvia, who was usually always energetic, actually had a timid side–– Even when Ash had already known this fact, it was still hard to imagine that Silvia would act like this.

"Are you alright, princess?"

As he was looking under the table, Ash remembered First Princess Veronica Lautreamont's moniker…

She was called the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’.

"The Legend of Silver Knight ~A.S.B.1365.5~" 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

2018-09-21T09:32:42Z

Foggy glasses: Minor grammar changes.. incomplete yet.

==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 this 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, 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 honourable 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 (Silver 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 was 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 just 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. And so 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 the 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 then, did the dense Ash ask in amazement. There were classes to 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 skipped 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."

"Could su-such a thing 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, is Bright Dragon Crystals 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 and so she 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 who 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!”

Someone suddenly pulled his sleeve. He was surprised and his thoughts returned to reality.

"Eco... Is there something wrong??"

"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 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 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 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 that can't tolerate even a single speck of dust’ 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."

"Something?"

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 to have a 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 is 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 that 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’ was powerful enough to defeat that Necromancia. Moreover, he was 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.

"With 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 the 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 with everyone’s attention focused on the suspicious group which had 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 and 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, 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 it. 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. She was obviously shaken when Jessica hit the bull’s eye. It would be 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 as 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 more but 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 no different; She was the only one showing no signs of fear.

"Ash, stay calm! She's a noble!"

Raymond gave a out loud warning but Ash was 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, both of them 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 that 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…... That 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!" cried Eco.

===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 was changed into homeroom. Even though the students of Ansarivan possesed 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 job 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." said Rebecca and 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, he decided in the end that 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 other'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 has a particularly strong sense for nobility, and even now she 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's 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 was 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 cheekily spoke 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 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, she is very motivated for her own self improvement, but it is always futile or she is very persistent in doing things that are meaningless. I cannot deny that she is one of those who think 'they 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 repeatit! 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 that!"

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 was reluctant to sit down on her seat. Perhaps her animal instinct made 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’ was 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 started to act arrogant again.

"In short… Jessica is not the kind of person who would 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 in this academy. It would be harsh on her if it were to be exposed…… Now on to the main topic."

Rebecca placed her elbows on the table with her fingers overlapping, then she gently lift up her beautiful chin.

Ash noticed that Rebecca was worrying about something.

How tough was the problem that Rebecca was facing?

"The thing is… I received a message… The first princess of Lautreamont, Veronica Lautreamont, will be coming to Ansarivan to visit for a week."

After they heard this news, everyone knew the seriousness of this situation. They all suddenly turned solemn and silent, but right at the next second……

"Noooooo……!"

Silvia was moaning abnormally.

"What's wrong, Silvia?"

Rebecca was concerned about Silvia, but she 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 was trembling and turned pale as if the end of the world was coming. She huddled up and hid under the table. She was shaking with her hands protecting her head.

Silvia, who was usually always energetic, actually had a timid side–– Even when Ash had already known this fact, it was still hard to imagine that Silvia would act like this.

"Are you alright, princess?"

As he was looking under the table, Ash remembered First Princess Veronica Lautreamont's moniker…

She was called the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’.

"The Legend of Silver Knight ~A.S.B.1365.5~" 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 Prologue

2018-09-21T08:52:37Z

Foggy glasses: Minor grammar changes.

==Prologue==
Lautreamont Knight Country - the people called it the country of Dragon Breeders.To its north was the Zepharos Empire while to its 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 which educated and guided 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 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",

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 caused many whispers among the students. The overbearing aura of arrogance that previously surrounded Silvia had suddenly disappeared. She 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, she 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..."

Perhaps because she wasn't accustomed to being praised, Silvia blushed in embarrassment and 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 was the school's most problematic student, naturally, this would be his first time 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'."

"Don't be silly. I also felt tense!"

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 to be able to participate in many ceremonies, so 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 surprised.

"So even Her Royal Highness can be nervous. Ah... then it is quite okay for ordinary people like me to feel nervous too. After knowing about this, I suddenly feel relieved. Thank you!"

"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 filled his entire field of vision.

"Shit..."

Obviously, just before this moment, he could relax thanks to Silvia's help, but after he stood on 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 was 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 ears. Ash pretended to turn his head around casually and found out that Silvia is 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-

A 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 the two… 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 a moment, Silvia immediately resumed her usually chilly attitude. However, Ash decided to take it as a 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 was by no means only for Ash and Silvia. Some time ago, during the celebration of the birth of young dragon Eco, the '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, and 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 fogey, 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 that 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 her steps, "Knock, knock"<ref>Sound of footsteps.</ref> a chilled sound echoed in the hall. Cosette followed behind Eco, 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, but she has the appearance of a human even though she’s a Dragon, so 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!"

The audience clearly felt the strong will behind her bright, ruby-coloured, eyes as Eco gazed around the whole school from the stage. 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 was still a young dragon the shape of her horns didn'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 was not only beautiful but her whole body radiated with an elegant atmosphere. Even if anyone said that she is a princess there was no reason not to 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 with 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. 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 was the student dormitory where the male upperclassmen lived. Ash's personal room was located on the third floor and Eco had settled here for about a month. Although she was 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 there 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. Looking closely you'll notice that she was 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 feet to draw 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 was finally getting ready for the school's reopening.

"Initiation ~A.S.B.1365.5~" is closed.

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==References and Translation Notes==
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