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Kaze no Stigma:Registration Page

2007-06-14T09:36:20Z

Kwok: /* ''Kaze no Stigma '' / 風の聖痕 */

To re-iterate the registration procedure:

*"First Come, First Served": please register your intended chapters here

*The maximum number of chapters you are recommended to work on is no more then half of any given volume

*Maximum number of Translators per volume is two

*Maximum number of volumes you may be active on is one

*This is not some Binding Contract of "I must do the work I put down here". Choices put down here are negotiable between translators (including their own selves who signed up for it).

== List ==

=== ''Kaze no Stigma '' / 風の聖痕 ===
::*Chapter 1 - [[User:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*Chapter 2 - [[User:erehwon|erehwon]]
::*Chapter 3 - [[User:erehwon|erehwon]]
::*Chapter 4 - [[User:erehwon|erehwon]]
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 - [[User:kwok|kwok]]
::*Epilogue -
::*Author's Note -

===''Kaze no Stigma 2: The Price of a Soul'' / 風の聖痕2 -魂の値段 ===
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Chapter 6
::*Epilogue
::*Author's Notes

===''Kaze no Stigma 3: The Confession under the moon '' / 風の聖痕3 -月下の告白 ===
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Chapter 6
::*Epilogue
::*Author's Notes

===''Kaze no Stigma 4: '' / 風の聖痕4 -瑠璃色の残影 ===
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Author's Notes

===''Kaze no Stigma 5: '' / 風の聖痕5 -緋色の誓約 ===
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Chapter 6
::*Epilogue
::*Author's Notes

===''Kaze no Stigma 6: '' / 風の聖痕6 -疾風の槍 ===
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Author's Notes

==='' Kaze no Stigma Ignition 1: Ayano-chan's disaster'' / 綾乃ちゃんの災難 ===

=== ''Kaze no Stigma Ignition 2: Just my Madonna'' / 僕だけのマドンナ ===

===''Kaze no Stigma Ignition 3: Ren-kun's Suffering'' / 煉くんの受難===

----

[[Category:Registration Page]]

Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter2

2007-06-11T08:42:00Z

Kwok: /* 3 */

== Chapter Two - The sudden disaster ==

=== 1 ===
“Not ready yet? How much longer do we have to wait, Hyoue?”

“— — Please wait a little longer,” Hyoue replied to the seemingly impatient person.

Then, that person closed his eyes pensively and walked away. The wind was blowing against Hyoue. Within the blowing wind was the air full of the ki of youma, passing beneath Hyoue’s palm. The ki of youma that passed beneath this palms was like an air that would swallow anyone, no matter whom.

By the time the shredded remains of the three people were discovered, it was already dawn. This unbelievably serious situation completely shocked the entire Kannagi clan.

The Kannagi clan was astonished; this is an undeniable fact. Faster than human reflexes, the 3 defensively alert people were killed without anyone being alerted.

In order to better understand this situation, the Fuuga clan was summoned. Because of this, Hyoue himself gathered the youma ki to understand who the enemy was. “Hmm, T—, This is….”

Sounds of concentration. Hyoue gathered the youma ki in this palms without missing any. It was a very cold air. Even for very powerful jutsu practitioners, the ki provided sufficient reason to fear it.

“This was caused by fuujutsu, and was created by a jutsu practitioner that is on a completely different category from us, the Fuuga clan. It trapped the three people in the wind “kekkai” and then killed them.”

Hyoue’s report wasn’t anything beneficial and could be easily understood from the setting of the place.

“I understand, but who did it?!”

“If you require a detailed report, I hope more time is allowed,” Hyoue replied indistinctly, facing this inquiry.

“Then do it quickly, you and your clan can act...”

“Everyone be quiet!”

At Juugo's angry voice, everyone present became silent; substituted only by the sound of Juugo's condoling voice.

“Is it like that, good job, you can retire. — — Right, how’s the health of Ryuuya?"

At that moment, Hyoue appeared surprised due to the Suzerain’s concern over his son’s health.

“Yes… If he quietly recuperates, there shouldn’t be any problems. He can no longer recover to the level of working for the Kannagi clan anymore. This unworthy son is really an embarrassment.”

Given Juugo’s words of gratitude, Hyoue bows.

“Yes… Thank you very much. I will go give instructions to my subordinates, for I will retire….”

“Then please, I await your reply, Hyoue.”
The head of the Fuuga clan bows silently and leaves.

The enemy is a fuujutsu practitioner that loathes the Kannagi clan. Everyone naturally thinks of a certain person who had, coincidentally, just returned to Japan.

“It’s Kazuma! He obtained strength for revenge, and returned to Japan! My fellow clan members, let us destroy the traitor Kazuma. Find him without delay and kill him!”

The person that made such an aggressive comment was the previous suzerain, Yorimichi. Even though he has retired, he still has an air of the previous suzerain. The entire clan intensely dislikes him, although he is the only one that doesn’t know.

“Otou-san, first to clarify, we don’t have evidence that Kazuma did this.”
Juugo seriously said in order to defect Yorimichi's tirade.

“You! Who else if it is not Kazuma…”

“Yorimichi, please hold silent. When you open your mouth to speak such words, it becomes impossible for us discuss the issue.”

Facing Yorimichi with ear impairment, Genma coldly looks on. In those eyes appear an insulting look that cannot be hidden.

Facing this person that has no strength except for scheming ability and was chosen suzerain. Genma from the depth of his heart condescends him.

In Yorimichi’s thirty years as suzerain, the strength of the Kannagi Clan had hit rock bottom. Given Yorimichi's inability to control the representative sword of the Kannagi Clan, and his incapacity of passing the sword to someone else, resulted in it being deeply buried in the warehouse before Juugo’s accession to the suzerain position.

Of course Genma was not thinking about such a foolish item.
Genma’s notion is that the strongest jutsu practitioner should be the one that succeeds the suzerain position; therefore Genma does not hate the suzerain, Juugo, only that his own strength isn’t enough in comparison.

He had previously wanted to prepare his son to be the next suzerain, even though it is not really a scheme, he just wanted to train and prepare Kazuma with the strength to become the next suzerain.

Though Yorimichi doesn’t really have any such thoughts as beliefs, he only has the ambition for power. This is what Genma thought. Logically, no matter how Genma tried to hide his thoughts, those thoughts are revealed when he further enraged Yorimichi.

Even though they are of a close family/blood relationship of uncle and nephew, the loathing between the two again deepens.

“Y, You want to shield Kazuma? No, I should say that is your scheme? Allow Kazuma to go outside the country to learn jutsu then kill off Juugo and Ayano, then allow Ren to succeed the position of suzerain?

Yorimichi turned the arrowhead towards Genma. This kind of bad will was almost materializing like “sticky things connecting items together”, allowing the crowd to start agitating.

“That kind of idea only comes from someone with “low moral fiber.” 
For Yorimichi to say such things, the almost insulting provocation, Genma didn’t contradict —— because the reply would be extremely disrespectful.

“Otou-san, that’s enough!”

Juugo wouldn’t allow the continuation of such an insulting diatribe; therefore he forcefully hurried the people to take him away.

“The [Previous Generation] is tired, please return to your room to rest.”

“Wait, Juugo! Genma is not to be trusted! If you don’t listen to me now you will end up regretting it sooner or later!”
Yorimichi was carried away like luggage. That harsh voice slowly decreases in volume until nothing is heard.

“Really sorry for the insulting diatribes of my father, with regards to me please forgive him.”

Juugo puts both of his hands on the tatami in a slight bow. Genma replied indifferently, “I didn’t pay attention; the reason for such words is that the previous suzurain cared deeply about the Kannagi Clan.”

With an exchange of looks, understanding the others reasoning they smiled at the same time, and with that they understood that chatting time is over, now is time to enter to serious points.

“Like what the previous suzerain said, the timing is too much of a coincidence. It is better to meet again and have a discussion.”

Genma maintained his silence from the start, possibly because he did not want to discuss about his son.

“Would Kazuma easily submit to our instructions?”

“If he doesn’t submit, we will use strength to bring him here. Even though he has obtained strength, that person is Kazuma. 2 or 3 people will be more than enough to capture him.”

“….That’s good then. The selection of persons in charge of the assignment will be your responsibility. No matter what, it is necessary to quickly bring Kazuma back.”
“Understood”

Even though Genma received an order to capture his own son, Genma was tranquil comparable to facing someone else.

“Ayano-sama has returned!”

The serious expression on Juugo’s face started to relax, and Genma wore a highly energetic and fierce look.
Not even waiting a little, she just appeared.

“pah” and she pulled the sliding door, collecting everyone’s look towards that direction.

“I'm home, Otou-san! Ehh… What’s going on?” 
Appearing on scene was a sufficiently commanding young teenage girl, who asked the question when she saw the atmosphere of the gathering. That black hair that almost reaches the back, flowing straight and sideways created by the movements of her head, simply represented the blooming of a bishoujo. At the same moment, the “dark and cold” atmosphere had completely vanished. That is the spiritual energy that comes from the breath that cleansed the atmosphere of the room.

The appearance of an unclear enemy who killed some people at home. Those people that have been discussing this situation nonstop, are now facing a blinding light, that uncomfortable and distressing feeling has completely vanished.

As if before the rays of the sun, all the movements in the dark were not allowed to exist. The one right there was the person that had the ability to vanquish the dark with spiritual powers not beneath the powers for light, the next suzerain in waiting and owner of Enraiha, is Juugo’s daughter, Kannagi Ayano.

“How’s the report, Ayano?”
Juugo was testing his daughter with a serious expression, like when he asks other people. This is the best way for a father to direct his daughter, at least this is what Juugo thinks.

“Excuse me”
Ayano at that moment also finished bowing.
“The youma that was released was completely vanquished.”

“Hmm, good job.”
Finishing her report to the suzurain as a jutsu practicioner, Ayano innocently continued her questioning.
“Then, what had actually happened, otou-san?”

“Hmm——, previously 3 people have been killed and nobody had noticed. This is a serious situation!”

Although they were distant relatives, Ayano quieted after hearing that 3 people from the family had been killed. “A serious situation” wasn’t that “3 people have been killed” instead it was because “nobody had noticed.”

This was not some callous sentiment, but it is an understanding of what is of primary importance. For a girl of only sixteen years of age, who has such a strong will and discipline, it is surprising.

“Nobody saw that fuujutsu-shi?”
“Of course, there is a suspect.”

Faced with Ayano’s questioning, Juugo replied heavily.
“It’s Kazuma”

“Who’s that? That’s?”

Faced with this kind of close and revealing speech, Juugo’s “sun vein” furrowed.

“Think carefully about your older cousin’s name. “Successor Ceremony” betting Enraiha who fought with you.”

“Older cousin… Could it be the Kazuma that left the family 4 years ago? Could that be labeled as a fight?”

Given his daughter’s direct words, Juugo secretly spied on Genma’s expression to see if there were any changes. Even though the inner feelings are not apparent, the outer unreadable appearance of Genma had no change at all.

“Right, I heard that he left the country… and trained there. Later he became a fuujutsu-shi?”

“That’s how it is, he supposedly returned to Japan recently, and changed his name to Yagami Kazuma. Yesterday, he met with the killed Shinji during a job, where he beautifully completed it. It seems like he trained very hard in those 4 years.

“Kazuma… Looks like he hates us…”
Finally remembering, Ayano said looking towards a distant place.

“It could be like that”
Genma replied with a void of facial expression.

“But, even though it is like that, we can’t easily kill him. If it was done by him, we need to use his life to pay for the crimes.”

“If?...”

Ayano turned her glance toward Genma, Genma without any change accepted Ayano’s look. The one that disinherited Kazuma and the one that provided the reason for the disinheritance crossed their gazes.

The first to avoid looking was Ayano. Without regards to strength as jutsu practitioners, life experience is immensely surpassed. In reality, even with careful searching (she’s) still void of self-confidence in order to win.

After stopping the unsatisfied challenge/look , Ayano looked towards Juugo.

“Then, what will be done? Defeat him?

“Now we haven’t decided whether it was done by Kazuma, anyways, we would like to meet with him and discuss it.”

Faced with his daughter’s simplistic and dangerous words, Genma deeply felt the danger.
Even though she has the Enraiha’s overwhelming power, Ayano tends to resort to violence in anything she does. Genma frequently hopes that as she is the next suzerain she would have a less impulsive way of thinking.

“Now is not time for you, wait until there are other missions to be done.”

“…Yes”

Faced with a barely compliant daughter, Juugo said condolingly.

“You have just finished a mission, you must be tired, get a good rest for today.”

“… I understand.”

Even though it seems like it is not acceptable, Ayano still obeys what her father has said. After “bowing”, she rapidly leaves the room. Until the “door” closed, Juugo didn’t blink, releasing a deeply unhappy expression about her.

“……………This stubborn daughter.”

Juugo seemingly says “not acceptable” and sighs deeply. Even though it is with this kind of strict manner of speech, the care and love for her daughter no matter what is hard to hide.

These two people have said the sayings for many times. To put it correctly, Shingo, due to his younger brother’s death, has a burning fire for revenge. Takeya, no matter how many times you tell him to pay attention to his orders will still forget it, said he was nagging 

They are waiting for the report, and then immediately go towards Kazuma’s direction. 

=== 2 ===
For the Kannagi Clan's information network to find the place Kazuma was staying was really simple.

To find him the next morning did not really require any special methods, because he used his own name to register at the hotel.

So given Genma’s command, two jutsu practitioners were sent.

Yuuki Shingo and Oogami Takeya were the strongest jutsu practitioners of the branch families. Even though they have opposing personalities, they are great friends. This combination excluding the main family can be said to be without rivals.

From Genma viewpoint, he has thrown in the two strongest cards on hand. But, possibly the selection of oldest son of the Yuuki family can be said as deadly mistake. Why, because this man has absolutely no desire to convince Kazuma.

“Kazuma, you “bastard”, I will cut you ten-thousand pieces.” (Note: there is one character, I think in Mandarin, Japanese, and Korean that is equal to ten-thousand. Historically ten-thousand is also a big number, can also be infinite.)

“If he is dead, it will become problematic. At least let’s leave him with the ability to talk when we take him back.”

As they wait for the upcoming report, they will directly head towards Kazuma’s direction. Of course, they have absolutely no desire to persuade him. At least they didn’t have this kind of desire, but what they never contemplated was that they would be ones assaulted.

“Still not ready yet?”

“It’s going to be ready soon.”

This kind of discussion cannot satisfy them at all; don’t know how many times they have repeatedly asked. Given that the two of them are waiting to receive the same report, they should know it doesn’t matter how they ask… .

“What the hell are they doing, that useless Fuuga clan! It’s only that one person Kazuma, can’t they easily bring him over!”

Shingo reprimanded angrily, in reality they have turn the arrowhead towards the Fuuga clan.

“This is worrying, Fuga clan might even be connected to this situation.”
Takeya forcefully said some pretty words to sway Shingo, Fuga shielding him isn’t impossible, using words that attack them, in order to change the attention of Shingo is certainly welcomed.

Thinking momentarily, Shingo grinded his teeth angrily and said.

“Damn, they only have slightly sharper senses, what is there to be complacent about.”

“Don’t say it like that; they are just a bunch of sad people with non-discussable/nil fighting power. Even failing to do something simple, are they not very pathetic?”

“That’s right, hahaahahahahahaaaaa…”

Just like Takeya have wished, Shingo have completely forgotten about the issue to reprimand. Hearing this sudden liberated laughter, Takeya has a thought — — Not like what was heard 10 seconds ago “Still not ready yet?” Similarly he feels very slow and lengthy.

“Incoming, in the area right head about 500 meters, looks like he hasn’t noticed.”

Suddenly, amidst the conversation between the two a voice appears. This is a jutsu used by Fuuga clan called “Method of Summoning/Calling Spirits” used for sending the voice.
This allows the wind to carry the voice, even works for large distances.

“Coming, won’t leave him no limbs, neither legs nor arms, burn it all. Let’s attack!”

This was not voiced for anybody to hear, only Shingo’s mumblings to himself. This can be seen from the hatred-filled eyes; certainly really problematic.

Even though they didn’t continue their discussion how to punish, at least put up some resistance, that’s how he thinks. Until he’s half dead, could slowly torture him besides what was mentioned before, there’s plenty more.

Takeya slightly separated himself and quickly glanced, being with someone this dangerous, his thoughts from inner self a certain divide. 

Just like that a divide in the friendship, appears Kazuma.

Facing that with no alertness, completely nonchalant——viewed from their perspective—— walks along Kazuma, Takeya in order to alert him shouted.

“Long time no see, Kazuma!”

“Ah, the successor from the Oogami?”

At that instance, to connect your recollection and present needs time. But, Takeya is waiting for that instance.

It’s this kind of prideful self-elevation that results in lagging concentration.

“Know why we are looking for you?”

Takeya pressures that Shingo with blood-filled eyes ready to release fireballs, using a condescending method of speech.

“Nope, I completely don’t know.”

Kazuma reply could be described as “couldn’t be more direct”, but also apparently has some percentage of challenge. By crunching his head and neck and making a certain exaggerating and sarcastic action, then shook his head in denial, predictably piss Takeya off enough for veins to be showing.
Takeya succeeded in controlling his anger, and recovering his cool begins to explain.

“Yesterday night, Kannagi Clan had three jutsu practitioners killed.

“uhmm ——, and?

And like with all the authority Kazuma asked pressuringly.

“The one that killed was a fuujutsu practitioner.

“……………………..”

“……………………..”

The surroundings was covered by silence. Warm wind blowing through the dusk “Tree-Shadow” Road  , the red leaves lightly started to dance, shining upon by crimson sun the red leaves are dyed even a darker shade of red, this is the beauty that appears before the darkness controlled world.

“……………..”

The first to open his mouth was Kazuma’s side, compared to silence, it seems like he further detest being stared by men.

“So what is the matter?”

“The suzerain has things to ask you, follow!”

“It wasn’t me! Finished!”

The instance after saying such words and was thinking to leave, Kazuma suddenly bounced horizontally
outwards, an instance before in the space where Kazuma existed, without touching anything appeared a fireball.

Kazuma —— doesn’t know why Takeya —— looks towards Shingo , consequently Shingo using a deep, like a natural born deep voiced snigger.

“Hmhmhm, what’s the matter, you finally did it? Then, there is no other way besides using power to suppress!”

At the same time of the shout, surrounding Shingo tongues of crimson begin to burn and dance.
The flames that appear at the same time as the yell, even though connected to Shingo’s body, the clothes were not burnt. Shingo had surprisingly unthought-of carefulness.

Like the flames that continue to move on his body, Shingo was so happy that his lips were slanted, and said in like a proclamation.

“If you can’t speak about it then it is questionable, I'll burn off your arms and legs! Lessening the weight will make it easier to transport around! Won’t kill you now, but you can’t continue living in such a humiliating condition? After the suzerain finishes his questioning I’ll be nice and kill you! Within one week! Use this time for you to fully regret living. I want you to know! Killing Shinji, absolutely cannot allow you to continue living untroubled!”

Assuming the future will be like that was his words were saying. But, Kazuma facing crazily laughing Shingo, looked as if he was watching some rare animal, asked very seriously.

“Kannagi Clan has recently given food to this kind of thing?”

“—No, Ahh….hu….”

Takeya really had no reply. Considering himself to be normal, did want to recognize that the thing with him is the same kind.

“That person usually adores Shinji, now he hates you who killed Shinji is quite within reason.”

“That’s why I said it wasn’t me.”

“Then please go and clarify everything with the suzerain.”

“I am no longer part of the Kannagi Clan; if he has business with me tell him to come look for me himself, please pass it like that to him.”

“… Negotiation is broken then, it seems.”

In order to make good the words, Takeya raised his ki. He then directed the surrounding dancing fire spirits to dance with his self-conscious.

The surrounding temperature was raised enough to be felt by the skin. Even though the fire spirits haven’t materialize, the surroundings have evidently changes in physics.

Seems like frightened in faced of such elevated fighting spirit, scores of red leaves continually fluttered down, the bright red leaves before touching Takeya’s body instantly changes to ashes and floated off.

Still Kazuma, like before, stood there with hands in the leather jacket watched the two of them. It seems like he has no desire to confront the Kannagi Clan, of course it is hard to see from that kind of pose.

“This is the last opportunity; yield humbly to us, Kazuma.”

Faced with Takeya last ultimatum, Kazuma raises his middle finger and says.

“Take a good look at yourselves before coming.”

“Die!!!!!”

“You idiot!”

At the instance of starting the jutsus, the two believed that victory would be certain. Because in the clan the two of the strongest class attacking at the same time. No matter what kind of strategy Kazuma had, face with kind of massive power is useless.

But——

Poou! 

The fireball from Takeya hand, suddenly instanteously explodes. Above the sound, the fireball in his credulity had such a big categorical runaway explosion.

The fireball that left Takeya’s control, was like a wild animal with its tooth pulled. Even with the protection of the fire spirit, it is still no possible to shield the crash of the explosion’s force.
Instantly the force of the explosion hits the entire body, Takeya was simply KO-ed.

(W,What? What had happened…? Shit, Shingo, leave….)

Even though “Leave the rest to you” this kind of saying, but Shingo similarly lost his conscious, because on his face the black and blue continuously pulsed.

Kazuma returns his hands back in the pockets of the leather jacket; lowering his head at the two people. After releasing a condescending grin, he walked right by the two unconscious persons' side.

Even though it seems like he wanted to directly leave, at that time Kazuma stops his footsteps. Then as if he felt something, looked towards the trees where no one is at.

“If you want to pick a fight with me, I won’t be merciful!?”

At the same time of this warning, one of the trees separated. Without any noise from the chopped tree following the break slowly slid down.

Already forgetting to hide the body, stood dumbly staring at Kazuma, then Kazuma turns to leave. The guarding jutsu practitioner was fearful. The one that was lured was himself? The prey we were hunting is this frightening thing——?

=== 3 ===
“Seriously, Father worries too much. I alone is enough don’t know how many times this has been repeated. When will he acknowledge me? Am I this untrustworthy?”

“The suzerain acknowledges Young Mistress' abilities, only as a father he simply worries about his daughter.”

Confronted with the disgruntled Ayano, the man in his forties cajoled.

At this time, Ayano was ordered to a certain temple in the city of Yokohama Yamate, to strengthen the weakening seal inside. The day before the accident, encountered the employer of Kazuma —— of course, single mindedness heading to location to vanquish the spirits, and not understand the reason. '''! '''

Upon arrival to the location and discovering that the seal has deteriorated to point beyond the previously assumed limits, Ayano immediately destroys the idea of the resealing, and instead decided to eliminate it. Then without any testing she immediately ripped off the seal.

Popular saying was. “This method is faster.” 

People without significant confidence in ones own ability would not say something like that, certainly the two men that accompanied her also know that she has the necessary ability to go along with such self-confidence.

Certainly, Juugo also knows that she has this kind of ability, but such worries of a father are within reason. Even describing Juugo as stupid or foolish, most of times he sends two or more people to protect her.

“Don’t mix the work with private life, is frequently lectured no matter when. Don’t follow your own desires and do things, Uncle Masato?” 

Still discharging her annoyances, Ayano faced that guy —— the younger brother of the Yuuki family head, complaining to Masato.
“Because he is the suzerain, he cannot mull over such minor issues.”
In this manner on Masato’s thin face appeared a smile and laughter. As a member of the branch families, he certainly wasn’t thinking about the consequences. But, it seems like Ayano hasn’t really noticed or cared.

This man——Oogami Masato, although possessing a strength greater than his older brother, disliked scheming for the position of family head, so went off to Tibet to train like a eccentric person.

When he returned to Japan he was given the “Protect Ayano” mission. Juugo has a high regard of him, and from the first time Ayano went on a mission he continually was responsible for this kind of protecting job.

Certainly, Ayano also has good feelings about this easy-going relative. Due to the surrounding people’s princess like treatment of her, faced with Masato’s kind of causal attitude is quite refreshing for her, furthermore it feels very good.

Consequently “Uncle Masato, ojo-sama this kind of terminology, is like a real family without any separation.

“Maybe it is to allow the younger jutsu practitioner to learn, this kind of reasoning is still possible. Isn’t that, Takeshi… Takeshi?”

“Ahh, Yes!?”

The young jutsu practitioner using admiring eyes staring at Ayano —— Oogami Takeshi’s uncle hollered many times before he finally paid attention.

“Did you not hear… Stopping staring stupidly at Ojo-sama, be prepared, it is not known when the seal will be released.”
“Yes, I have understood! Just like what Uncle have said! To be allowed to watch Ayano-sama striking fighting method is really a great honor!”

In order to not screw-up in front of Ayano, Takeshi uselessly shouts in a loud voice. In that stare at Ayano, appears compared to respect, has more admiration and reverence. For Takeshi’s generation of jutsu practitioners, Ayano has existence of a goddess. Hoping to watch her striking manner from close by guarding is something everyone will accept.

“Yes——It’s——like——this?”
“Yes, it’s like that!”

The exhilaration to be able to talk to Ayano is something seen through Takeshi’s entire body language. Of course, Ayano doesn’t like being seen like that. Seems like herself is being separated from being “normal”, changed to something she can’t wait.

No matter what, no matter how it is explained is useless. That’s only Takeshi’s simple, compared to himself much stronger and beautiful existence, means of showing deference.

“Ah, forget it. … It’s about time.”

Ayano sensing the expanding ki of the youma, relaxingly turns herself towards the main hall. Mini-skirt starting to flutter and dance.

Now recalling, why would Ayano be wearing her high school uniform.

This is not only to allow her to normally attend a high school.

Because if you think about it, the best suited outfit for a high school student is the uniform. So Juugo, especially focused on this point, used within his the range of abilities added the best class of defensive spells.

The material, in order to allow better transpiration, was the best type of silk. That is during the process of fabrication air is mixed in, furthermore everything is made from expensive materials.

A result by inputting great amounts of money and time, a high school uniform; it is not wrong to say that it is a work of art. Its cost could be comparable. It could be said that is enough to buy a car, no, not really, correctly said it can buy a luxury house without being wrong.

Of course Ayano pays attention to this outfit —— not towards its capabilities —— because it is a gift given by her father —— so she frequently wears this outfit in combat.

Wearing this outfit that can be said as the world’s most expensive combat outfit, protecting Ayano, watching as the seal is about to be broken, took a deep breath, then moving and warming-up her own inner strength.

Pah!

The clear sound of clapping starts to vibrate the space. When the two close palms were opened, in between the two palms appears a flaming line. Then Ayano grasp it with her right hand, making a horizontal outwards swinging motion.

The around 1 meter burning line, at that instance materializes, a crimson red sword.

This is a no blunt side, having two edges bright crimson red sword. The [body] of the sword is surrounded by a golden flame, releasing vivid beauty of a light. Just like that, as beautiful as one will imagine. 

That sword is the Kannagi Clan’s supreme treasure, Enraiha. That is Kannagi Clan founder, [huh], rewarded by King of the Flame Spirits passed down defeating devils/evil of treasured sword. '''!'''

Ayano lifts upwards the Enraiha, then adds her left hand to grasp the sword making a downward stroke. Along the path of the stroke, appear spreading golden pieces. Then instantly and prettily stopping the sword before her eyes, no matter if it is done ten-thousands times or hundred thousand times, it is a beautiful motion that can be forgiven.

A vase that has already approached its limits, with a “pong” bursts open. Even faster than the falling pieces, a white light shoots towards Ayano.

Ayano from the front makes a downward stroke with Enraiha, and then goes forward to attack. Attacking that white object that produces a sound “like the sound produce when the water is evaporated by a flat frying pan”.

“Sticky stuff…!?” 
Ayano faced with the string that was smashed by her and said mumbling.
Then changed her vision to the inside of the main hall, there was a few points like something like lights. That thing slowly moves forward, and then reveals its own appearance.

“Wah…”

Ayano inadvertently surprised, that thing that appeared is ——

Having multiple eyes, beyond eight feet, the entire body covered with dirty yet rigid fur, a segmented animal producing sounds, “kulah, kulah”, as its legs moved. When you see its full appearance, no matter whom, will feel shivers not due to cold. Really is a horrify spider freak.

“Earth Spider huh... Need help?”

“Not necessary”

Ayano immediately replies. Even though it produces a very disgusting feeling, but now is not the time for complaints. Seems like she’s more afraid of disappointing her otou-san, compared to that, fighting against spiders or cockroaches is nothing in comparison.

(Come here…)

Summoning fire spirits do not need chants and such. As if following Ayano’s thinking, fire spirits itself assemble, flying into Enraiha. Along the sword blade the flame, the light transformed to even brighter.

With the range that’s reachable by her awareness, Ayano continuously summoning spirits. Juugo don’t know how many times instructed her many times, don’t be like other jutsu practitioners, it is not commanding the spirits, you can’t be too arrogant.

“They and we have same level of existence.” 

This saying is frequently repeated by Juugo, spirits are the means to safeguard the existence of the world’s order. Because the Kannagi Clan have contract with the spirit king, therefore the spirits are only helpers.

Of course Ayano also understands, her own strength is borrowed. Only to seal or vanquish the inconsistencies in the world’s order that the power is gifted for a short period of time.

That’s why it isn’t ordering them. Because knowing such matters are not necessary. If the known the correct way of thinking, fire spirits will certainly answer.

Like having respect for the world, it’s not in order to obtain huge powers and being arrogant, Ayano no matter when always calls like this: “Please, lend me your strength….”

“V… Very formidable….”

Takeshi watches dumbfounded, this enormous number of spirits gathering on Ayano’s body, the amount of spirits he can manage is only one small portion of this in comparison. For him it’s the first time seeing the main family’s power, the difference is between the sky and the ground.

“Ah, formidable, right!?”

Just like show off his own condition, Masato said smiling.

“Even though we recently said it, no matter how hard we work, we won’t be able to reach such levels.”

Already forgotten his uncle’s reply, Takeshi one again looks at Ayano.

Ayano holding the Enraiha, continues to confront the earth spider.

(What should be done… looks like can’t get close…)

Even though enough spirits are already summoned to destroy the earth spider, but given this long distance really don’t have the confidence. Even though Enraiha is an ancient sword for [summoning], but to using a sword it is necessary to employ it to its fullest potential.

In other words get close, from a close distance to puncture or split the earth spider, then from inside its body burn it completely.

(Of course if that was done, certainly from the cut’s aperture will fly out adhesive matter… after the explosion fragments will all fly towards the body… if it’s female, after opening its skin, there might be hundreds of spiders coming out… No———!)

Just thinking about it makes the hairs stand, inside Ayano starts complaining bitter. If Takeshi could read Ayano’s inner thoughts then, maybe the thoughts of reverence might be corrected can even be said. 

The earth spider seems to capture the currently mulling Ayano’s openings; “palapala” using the long legs changed his body moving forwards.

“You want to escape!?”

Suddenly towards the chasing Ayano, from the tail spits out white silk, at the same time Ayano pulls up Enraiha to face it.

From Enraiha emerges an golden flame, even though it burned the spider’s web, but because of the blockage by the silk, Ayano still could not get close to the earth spider.

Then Ayano only could stop, focus her mind. Then she took a deep breath tuning her ki, calmed down.

(This kind of things can’t do any kind of obstruction, kill it in couple seconds.)

Then bringing up the Enraiha, then with her full strength performed a downwards swing. Golden Flame ——the highest level of fire of purification, not only completely burned the earth spider’s web, then closed-in directly at the earth spider itself.

Pong!!

With the sounds of explosion, the in the explosion earth spider is surrounded by flames.

“Got…Gotcha…?”

But as Ayano dubiously mumbles while looking into the flames, appearing into her vision was only a white cocoon-like object. What really surprised Ayano, the “pishpiish” sound that splits open.

Pang!

Just like a thin layer of glass shattering, from the middle the cocoon splits open, that earth spider completely without harm again appears.

Probably the web contained some special component that could block spiritual energies, then using that covering its body to hide, avoiding the purifying powers to be completely purified.

“It’s, it’s quite formidable, hu…”

Ayano said using a sing-song voice. At first glance seems very calm, but carefully studying will discover her “sun-vein”  has already risen.

Even though this was not a full strength strike, but was completely deflected, Ayano’s self-confidence certainly was hurting a lot.

“Only a little bug don’t be so haughty ——!!”

Resonating Ayano’s anger, an even greater amount of fire spirits was gathered, even though there is no materialization, but in the vicinity, already gathered the equal spirits to a volcano opening.

“Then… regretting it now?”

Accompanying anger, Ayano already entered selfless state. Composure has completely been commanded by anger, and then transformed into strength.

Continously summoning stronger, even stronger spirits. This time it isn’t directed releasing towards one area, but given immovable strength of mind, at the same time directly releasing in one direction. 

This time Ayano holds Enraiha in a direction perpendicular to her body, then seriously chasing it, took a deep breath, then with sharp kiai releasing it.

“Haa!!”

At that instance, the flame flew into the earth spider’s body. Then the abdomen expanded and exploded, changed it into a miniature torch.

In this seemly small torch, can be described as gathering the entire area’s fire spirits. The explosion of the fireball became even bigger, this time the earth spider is certainly transformed to ashes.

Afterwards nothing was left, spider’s body pieces and the youma spirit around was completed purified. Right now, the temple where the youma was vanquished was full on a “special air” that only temples have.

If attacking from the outside can be defended, then simply attack from the inside. Even though describing is easy, to actually do it is close to something impossible.

This is like what the world’s own close relationship with the spirits. That’s right, like the life force/life activity of living beings.

In the body living beings that have water, cannot be uninfluenced by the water spirits, and those living beings that have heat, within the body resides fire spirits.

For example, just like the youma, even though it materializes, it can’t escape this rule.

In ordinary circumstances, to control the spirit residing within the body is impossible.

These kind of infinitely close to a living beings’ survival instinct involves enormous willpower, the origin of life can be said to not allow anyone to control.

Even for a genius, can’t control it so easily according to one’s likings. But, in this world, no matter when there are people entire day saying “logical boundaries” foolish and sad humans.

“Heh. It’s this kind of thing.”

Ayano releasing a pleasing smile, turn around in order to go back.

“Then, let’s go!...”

During this dialogue that couldn’t continue, Ayano stupidly stares at the two’s body language. Probably the bigger body is Masato, on his left is Takeshi. From the clothes it should be right.

But——

(How come there’s no head…?)

These two guys, the taller one both hands still in the pockets, the other one seems not able to control his exhilaration, in front of his chest holding a fist, standing naturally.

When you look at it and there’s no head, doesn’t seem like an odd situation.

So Ayano looks toward the ground, there is two round objects entering her eyes. Ayano stumbling, seems like about to fall, close in and kneeled, then lifted it onto her knees. Even though it’s quite heavy, but as Ayano smelled the odor of the guy that she really liked, smiled. Ayano, from very young fought together, taught her the ways of survival/existence, hugged the head. Quietly mumbles.

“Uncle… head… fell down… uh…’

On Ayano appears sad smile, and then tries to put Masato’s head back on. Although thinking by doing this, he will return to life, stubbornly forcing the head back in.

Like mocking Ayano this kind of useless actions, hidden an unseen sword blade, lightly carves Masato’s body. In one second, this big body was separated into hundreds or even thousands slices of meat.

Because the heart has stopped pumping a while ago, so the fresh blood did not fly out from the sharp cuts.

But, although there is no sound of blood flow, nor the sounds of flesh breaking, still abnormally gives a person a feeling of reality.

Under the blowing of the wind, Masato’s body without sound was taken apart. Like gone through a paper shredder the pieces of meat, like flower petals dancing in the sky.

In the instance of the image, Ayano watched as if frozen.

Drop.

Accompaning the like water droplet sound something drops on the face, Ayano unconsciously tries to remove it.

That is a bright red piece, still has some remaining warmth of a meat slice. When understood what is carried on here fingers, Ayano’s consciousness seem to be passed through a filter, small amount of recovering.

“No.”

That is once a part belonging on Masato’s body. But those miserable remains no longer can be described as a corpse.

“Don’t want!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

At this moment, Ayano screams as far as can be heard.

“Kukuku—————“

That sound, even though it can vibrate the air, this snigger sound, it wasn’t directly sent into the brain. If you want to describe it, accompany this “snigger” are the strong feelings. This kind of derision towards one opponent’s “awareness”, seems like it provoked Ayano, it’s just that annoying.

Faced with situation of the appearance of the enemy, normally frequently training the body and the spirit, Ayano, instantly enters fighting mode.

Then burying deep within the feelings of anguish, substituting a feeling of animation and anticipation.

Changing the arrowhead of the anger towards the opponent, and especially challenging the opponent.

“Come out!”

Already surpassing the limits of anger, on the face of humans that already cannot be expressed. But Ayano seems to determine it can, looks upwards.

There exists ''that thing''. In the front on a branch where a huge tree stands a human shadow completely not fearing dangers, right hand in the pockets of his clothing.

Because that is place of little light, was not able to clearly see the opponents face, but it doesn’t really matter anymore. The out flowing evil ki already told her “This is the enemy.”

Ayano silently swings Enraiha upwards.

There is no need to know who, nor the need to accumulate strength. Only calmly mix in the killing intention, and then kill it in one strike. This kind of sharpened killing intention transformed into a flaming sword blade running upwards.

Lightly, clearly moving without regards to weight, ''that thing'' avoids the flaming sword blade. Then flew onto the roof (with a leap?). Afterwards, ''that thing'' looks towards Ayano, ''that thing'' slowly moves the body. Seems to say chase away.

This is clearly a trap and Ayano bravely accepts this kind of provocation.

(Even it is a trap, it doesn't matter, I will absolutely annihilate you.)

Deep within submitting to such type of anger, Ayano has already changed into a rampage for revenge.

=== 4 ===
In the sky suddenly appears ki of youma.

“Hmm…”

Kazuma suddenly looks towards the sky, it seems like in order for the strength to not spread, it is gathering bit by bit in the sky. Suddenly a wind blade flashes, there really is no time to even defend, and even flying backwards to escape took the full effort.

The wind blade passes right by the still rolling Kazuma, then slightly corrects its angle, with one stroke separated into two pieces the Fuuga practitioner, Shingo, Takeya the three of them.

“Wait, Wait a second!!”

Kazuma without thinking yelled, this would changed the situation into something unthought-of.

(I, I was actually ambushed?)

To face an ambush situation, actually is first time this had happened. Further, it was an ambush by a wind spirit? No matter who had summoned it, gathering this degree of wind spirit, it is impossible that Kazuma didn’t feel it. No matter how great of a fuujutsu-shi, using fuu-jutsu cannot deceive Kazuma. This question is not simply the difference in distance in abilities, but the rules are simply that this.

But, now occurred an impossible situation. Kazuma immediately broke off his thoughts, focus towards the thing in the sky.

“What’s… that thing...?”

Really small, maybe a thing smaller than 20 mm, was floating in the sky about 20-30 meters above. Nearby five risen things fly out.

“One’s hand…? Doesn’t seem so, red leaf…?

No matter how you look it doesn’t seem like it’s flying in the sky, it’s not controlling the wind. In a questioning look, suddenly Kazuma discovers what that thing really is.

It’s a human hand. A strange human hand is flying in the sky. Even recognizing it doesn’t solve anything, still can’t change that 3 people have been killed.

(Anyway, first let’s defeat it!)

Using only a voice that can be hear by himself mumbles, what looks like a hand flies into the upper sky —— then disappears.

“Wait! What are you actually thinking!?”

Kazuma then protested towards the wind spirit, this is clearly against the agreement. But, the spirit only has uncertain sound, and couldn’t tell Kazuma the actual place of the disappeared hand.

“What is going on…”

The miserable condition in front of his eyes —— the divided into two portion Fuuga practitioner and the separated corpses of Shingo and Takeya —— if like this, it seems just like it was done by Kazuma.

Spirit disobeyed the covenant? —— impossible.

To Kazuma, if he heard this kind of situation from someone else, would be quite skeptical of the correct mindset of the opponent. That’s why what just happened is a very irregular situation. 

Spirit does have cognizant qualities. [Original Rules] —— it’s when the world was first created, don’t know by whom, towards this existential world created immutable laws—— and to obey it, allowing this world to remain this kind of shape and reality. Just like the bees have to live in a beehive, just like one part of itself recognizes him, one part even though it has intelligence is still impossible that it thinks. Of course, it’s impossible for it to have the type of free will to break a covenant.

If the spirits had the free will to move about, then the laws of science will be broken. The world will be destroyed within 3 days.

All the wind spirits will obey Kazuma. [What belongs to Him] This kind of covenant certainly reflects this kind of meaning. For example—— 
“That’s impossible…”

Kazuma thinking of the worst scenario, weakly sighs saying.

(There’s someone like me? No way…)

Just thinking about it brings shivers not from cold, but it can’t be said as good luck —— no matter what, Kazuma doesn’t want to think that—— but right now it’s not the best time to stop and think.

Because he sensed a huge fire spirits coming towards here.

(This time even Infrit has come? Crap, when has Japan become world of youma!? Note: Infrit is the name of fire god.)

Even before finishing talking, appeared a situation that Kazuma could not have predicted.

Appearing is a shoujo. Accompanying the red fire and eyes where resides that hatred-filled fire, holding in the right hand accumulated power is ——

“Kazuma —— !!”

The strength of the fire spirits gathered in the right hand has already crystallized. Ayano seems to in that instance made up her mind.

Chop!!

Entering the rapidly retreating Kazuma’s eyes is, Ayano swings the red sword. For his clan, more important compared to everything else. Also the thing that made his life very chaotic.

Kazuma, when faced with the godly sword no matter what would like to escape, sees this, yells.

“Enraiha !? Are you, Ayano!”

Only answer is a sword flash from the Enraiha, faced with filled with killing intent and not listening to anything Ayano, tries really hard to explain.

“Hey, hey wait a moment, misunderstanding! Wasn’t killed by me… hey, you should listen to what other people are saying!”

Flaming white fireballs continuously approaching, Kazuma continuously dodging and saying, but Ayano seems like completely not hearing it.

Because the esteemed Masato got killed, Ayano is already too angry and has already forgotten herself. Really have no time to listen to people talking. Furthermore, given what her otou-san told her that this is guy is quite suspicious.

Dang!!

“Hey!!!”

Believing already evading the fireball suddenly together it explodes, then blocking Kazuma’s retreat. Then noticed, Ayano using the explosion time sealing off the way, appears in front of his eyes swinging the Enraiha.

“Uncle’s revenge !!”

“!!”

That motion a two part strike which wants to split Kazuma like a bamboo, escapes by shifting his body sideways, then from the top using his palm pressuring the sword handle. Facing Ayano who’s with fiery anger, face filling with blood yells.

“Otou-san —— Genma died?”

But before finishing saying such, figured out there was a mistake, even though Ayano and Genma’s relationship isn’t so bad that it can been seen from the outside, certainly if Genma were to die, Ayano would not be getting revenge for him.

A person appears in his head, a man, “uncle”, from the Oogami family that Ayano is very close to.

The name probably was —— like !!

“—— pong” 

Suddenly Ayano butted her head upwards, and then heavily hit his chin. Because of his pondering, his reflexes are slower, even though it was quickly evaded, but still the hit caused his head to be dizzy and painful.

Even though dizzy, but he still calmly asked.

“Oogami Masato died?

But Ayano faced became even more somber, further forcefully focus more strength into the Enraiha in her hand, from a distance it can be clearly seen.

(Seems like the opposite effect is done…)

Shruggin his shoulders, faced with a person filled with anger, having no more questions to ask. Faced with this confused by anger little girl no matter what is done is useless.

But, she can’t be killed. If he hurt her, probably the fool’s father, Juugo, would completely recognize him as an enemy. This needs to be avoided. 

This is not because he fears Juugo, who is the Kannagi clan’s historically strongest jutsu practitioner. But it is because as “Kannagi Kazuma”, Juugo can be said to be his only friend. In order not to not create sorrow to him, so there is only one method.

“Ah—— Ayano-chan? I’m —— leaving then, the issue with cleaning up the corpses will be left to you. Then see-ya.”

Prettily avoiding the completely tenacious approaching flames, Kazuma decides to escape.

“——Wait, Wait a second!”

Kazuma with his back towards Ayano who wants to stop him leaps up, then surrounded by wind flying upwards about 10 meters, then suddenly disappears.

“What—— where at?”

Right on top of, the still looking around, Kazuma floats along.

Employing the air to change the reflection rate of light, becoming see-through just like wearing a transparent robe. If look closely one can see the parts where there’s waves created by high heat, but for Ayano, who is being controlled by anger and has forgotten herself, she didn’t noticed.

But Kazuma didn’t take pleasure in watching the troubled Ayano, but was thinking about what to do later on.

What is realizable now is that the guilty person who killed Shingo and Takeya no matter how you described it is Kazuma, furthermore also killing Oogami Masato.

(They want to enter complete war with the Kannagi clan? If that’s the case it might be quite interesting, allows people to get excited… then, how will it progress?)

hehe, hmmhmmhmm.

Kazuma burst out laughing. Kannagi clan and the mysterious fuujutsu-shi, two strong things already assaulting his life, of course Kazuma cannot ignore this.

<noinclude>
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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Back to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter2

2007-06-11T08:36:45Z

Kwok: /* 2 */ - I love grammarr~ wo ai grammarr~

== Chapter Two - The sudden disaster ==

=== 1 ===
“Not ready yet? How much longer do we have to wait, Hyoue?”

“— — Please wait a little longer,” Hyoue replied to the seemingly impatient person.

Then, that person closed his eyes pensively and walked away. The wind was blowing against Hyoue. Within the blowing wind was the air full of the ki of youma, passing beneath Hyoue’s palm. The ki of youma that passed beneath this palms was like an air that would swallow anyone, no matter whom.

By the time the shredded remains of the three people were discovered, it was already dawn. This unbelievably serious situation completely shocked the entire Kannagi clan.

The Kannagi clan was astonished; this is an undeniable fact. Faster than human reflexes, the 3 defensively alert people were killed without anyone being alerted.

In order to better understand this situation, the Fuuga clan was summoned. Because of this, Hyoue himself gathered the youma ki to understand who the enemy was. “Hmm, T—, This is….”

Sounds of concentration. Hyoue gathered the youma ki in this palms without missing any. It was a very cold air. Even for very powerful jutsu practitioners, the ki provided sufficient reason to fear it.

“This was caused by fuujutsu, and was created by a jutsu practitioner that is on a completely different category from us, the Fuuga clan. It trapped the three people in the wind “kekkai” and then killed them.”

Hyoue’s report wasn’t anything beneficial and could be easily understood from the setting of the place.

“I understand, but who did it?!”

“If you require a detailed report, I hope more time is allowed,” Hyoue replied indistinctly, facing this inquiry.

“Then do it quickly, you and your clan can act...”

“Everyone be quiet!”

At Juugo's angry voice, everyone present became silent; substituted only by the sound of Juugo's condoling voice.

“Is it like that, good job, you can retire. — — Right, how’s the health of Ryuuya?"

At that moment, Hyoue appeared surprised due to the Suzerain’s concern over his son’s health.

“Yes… If he quietly recuperates, there shouldn’t be any problems. He can no longer recover to the level of working for the Kannagi clan anymore. This unworthy son is really an embarrassment.”

Given Juugo’s words of gratitude, Hyoue bows.

“Yes… Thank you very much. I will go give instructions to my subordinates, for I will retire….”

“Then please, I await your reply, Hyoue.”
The head of the Fuuga clan bows silently and leaves.

The enemy is a fuujutsu practitioner that loathes the Kannagi clan. Everyone naturally thinks of a certain person who had, coincidentally, just returned to Japan.

“It’s Kazuma! He obtained strength for revenge, and returned to Japan! My fellow clan members, let us destroy the traitor Kazuma. Find him without delay and kill him!”

The person that made such an aggressive comment was the previous suzerain, Yorimichi. Even though he has retired, he still has an air of the previous suzerain. The entire clan intensely dislikes him, although he is the only one that doesn’t know.

“Otou-san, first to clarify, we don’t have evidence that Kazuma did this.”
Juugo seriously said in order to defect Yorimichi's tirade.

“You! Who else if it is not Kazuma…”

“Yorimichi, please hold silent. When you open your mouth to speak such words, it becomes impossible for us discuss the issue.”

Facing Yorimichi with ear impairment, Genma coldly looks on. In those eyes appear an insulting look that cannot be hidden.

Facing this person that has no strength except for scheming ability and was chosen suzerain. Genma from the depth of his heart condescends him.

In Yorimichi’s thirty years as suzerain, the strength of the Kannagi Clan had hit rock bottom. Given Yorimichi's inability to control the representative sword of the Kannagi Clan, and his incapacity of passing the sword to someone else, resulted in it being deeply buried in the warehouse before Juugo’s accession to the suzerain position.

Of course Genma was not thinking about such a foolish item.
Genma’s notion is that the strongest jutsu practitioner should be the one that succeeds the suzerain position; therefore Genma does not hate the suzerain, Juugo, only that his own strength isn’t enough in comparison.

He had previously wanted to prepare his son to be the next suzerain, even though it is not really a scheme, he just wanted to train and prepare Kazuma with the strength to become the next suzerain.

Though Yorimichi doesn’t really have any such thoughts as beliefs, he only has the ambition for power. This is what Genma thought. Logically, no matter how Genma tried to hide his thoughts, those thoughts are revealed when he further enraged Yorimichi.

Even though they are of a close family/blood relationship of uncle and nephew, the loathing between the two again deepens.

“Y, You want to shield Kazuma? No, I should say that is your scheme? Allow Kazuma to go outside the country to learn jutsu then kill off Juugo and Ayano, then allow Ren to succeed the position of suzerain?

Yorimichi turned the arrowhead towards Genma. This kind of bad will was almost materializing like “sticky things connecting items together”, allowing the crowd to start agitating.

“That kind of idea only comes from someone with “low moral fiber.” 
For Yorimichi to say such things, the almost insulting provocation, Genma didn’t contradict —— because the reply would be extremely disrespectful.

“Otou-san, that’s enough!”

Juugo wouldn’t allow the continuation of such an insulting diatribe; therefore he forcefully hurried the people to take him away.

“The [Previous Generation] is tired, please return to your room to rest.”

“Wait, Juugo! Genma is not to be trusted! If you don’t listen to me now you will end up regretting it sooner or later!”
Yorimichi was carried away like luggage. That harsh voice slowly decreases in volume until nothing is heard.

“Really sorry for the insulting diatribes of my father, with regards to me please forgive him.”

Juugo puts both of his hands on the tatami in a slight bow. Genma replied indifferently, “I didn’t pay attention; the reason for such words is that the previous suzurain cared deeply about the Kannagi Clan.”

With an exchange of looks, understanding the others reasoning they smiled at the same time, and with that they understood that chatting time is over, now is time to enter to serious points.

“Like what the previous suzerain said, the timing is too much of a coincidence. It is better to meet again and have a discussion.”

Genma maintained his silence from the start, possibly because he did not want to discuss about his son.

“Would Kazuma easily submit to our instructions?”

“If he doesn’t submit, we will use strength to bring him here. Even though he has obtained strength, that person is Kazuma. 2 or 3 people will be more than enough to capture him.”

“….That’s good then. The selection of persons in charge of the assignment will be your responsibility. No matter what, it is necessary to quickly bring Kazuma back.”
“Understood”

Even though Genma received an order to capture his own son, Genma was tranquil comparable to facing someone else.

“Ayano-sama has returned!”

The serious expression on Juugo’s face started to relax, and Genma wore a highly energetic and fierce look.
Not even waiting a little, she just appeared.

“pah” and she pulled the sliding door, collecting everyone’s look towards that direction.

“I'm home, Otou-san! Ehh… What’s going on?” 
Appearing on scene was a sufficiently commanding young teenage girl, who asked the question when she saw the atmosphere of the gathering. That black hair that almost reaches the back, flowing straight and sideways created by the movements of her head, simply represented the blooming of a bishoujo. At the same moment, the “dark and cold” atmosphere had completely vanished. That is the spiritual energy that comes from the breath that cleansed the atmosphere of the room.

The appearance of an unclear enemy who killed some people at home. Those people that have been discussing this situation nonstop, are now facing a blinding light, that uncomfortable and distressing feeling has completely vanished.

As if before the rays of the sun, all the movements in the dark were not allowed to exist. The one right there was the person that had the ability to vanquish the dark with spiritual powers not beneath the powers for light, the next suzerain in waiting and owner of Enraiha, is Juugo’s daughter, Kannagi Ayano.

“How’s the report, Ayano?”
Juugo was testing his daughter with a serious expression, like when he asks other people. This is the best way for a father to direct his daughter, at least this is what Juugo thinks.

“Excuse me”
Ayano at that moment also finished bowing.
“The youma that was released was completely vanquished.”

“Hmm, good job.”
Finishing her report to the suzurain as a jutsu practicioner, Ayano innocently continued her questioning.
“Then, what had actually happened, otou-san?”

“Hmm——, previously 3 people have been killed and nobody had noticed. This is a serious situation!”

Although they were distant relatives, Ayano quieted after hearing that 3 people from the family had been killed. “A serious situation” wasn’t that “3 people have been killed” instead it was because “nobody had noticed.”

This was not some callous sentiment, but it is an understanding of what is of primary importance. For a girl of only sixteen years of age, who has such a strong will and discipline, it is surprising.

“Nobody saw that fuujutsu-shi?”
“Of course, there is a suspect.”

Faced with Ayano’s questioning, Juugo replied heavily.
“It’s Kazuma”

“Who’s that? That’s?”

Faced with this kind of close and revealing speech, Juugo’s “sun vein” furrowed.

“Think carefully about your older cousin’s name. “Successor Ceremony” betting Enraiha who fought with you.”

“Older cousin… Could it be the Kazuma that left the family 4 years ago? Could that be labeled as a fight?”

Given his daughter’s direct words, Juugo secretly spied on Genma’s expression to see if there were any changes. Even though the inner feelings are not apparent, the outer unreadable appearance of Genma had no change at all.

“Right, I heard that he left the country… and trained there. Later he became a fuujutsu-shi?”

“That’s how it is, he supposedly returned to Japan recently, and changed his name to Yagami Kazuma. Yesterday, he met with the killed Shinji during a job, where he beautifully completed it. It seems like he trained very hard in those 4 years.

“Kazuma… Looks like he hates us…”
Finally remembering, Ayano said looking towards a distant place.

“It could be like that”
Genma replied with a void of facial expression.

“But, even though it is like that, we can’t easily kill him. If it was done by him, we need to use his life to pay for the crimes.”

“If?...”

Ayano turned her glance toward Genma, Genma without any change accepted Ayano’s look. The one that disinherited Kazuma and the one that provided the reason for the disinheritance crossed their gazes.

The first to avoid looking was Ayano. Without regards to strength as jutsu practitioners, life experience is immensely surpassed. In reality, even with careful searching (she’s) still void of self-confidence in order to win.

After stopping the unsatisfied challenge/look , Ayano looked towards Juugo.

“Then, what will be done? Defeat him?

“Now we haven’t decided whether it was done by Kazuma, anyways, we would like to meet with him and discuss it.”

Faced with his daughter’s simplistic and dangerous words, Genma deeply felt the danger.
Even though she has the Enraiha’s overwhelming power, Ayano tends to resort to violence in anything she does. Genma frequently hopes that as she is the next suzerain she would have a less impulsive way of thinking.

“Now is not time for you, wait until there are other missions to be done.”

“…Yes”

Faced with a barely compliant daughter, Juugo said condolingly.

“You have just finished a mission, you must be tired, get a good rest for today.”

“… I understand.”

Even though it seems like it is not acceptable, Ayano still obeys what her father has said. After “bowing”, she rapidly leaves the room. Until the “door” closed, Juugo didn’t blink, releasing a deeply unhappy expression about her.

“……………This stubborn daughter.”

Juugo seemingly says “not acceptable” and sighs deeply. Even though it is with this kind of strict manner of speech, the care and love for her daughter no matter what is hard to hide.

These two people have said the sayings for many times. To put it correctly, Shingo, due to his younger brother’s death, has a burning fire for revenge. Takeya, no matter how many times you tell him to pay attention to his orders will still forget it, said he was nagging 

They are waiting for the report, and then immediately go towards Kazuma’s direction. 

=== 2 ===
For the Kannagi Clan's information network to find the place Kazuma was staying was really simple.

To find him the next morning did not really require any special methods, because he used his own name to register at the hotel.

So given Genma’s command, two jutsu practitioners were sent.

Yuuki Shingo and Oogami Takeya were the strongest jutsu practitioners of the branch families. Even though they have opposing personalities, they are great friends. This combination excluding the main family can be said to be without rivals.

From Genma viewpoint, he has thrown in the two strongest cards on hand. But, possibly the selection of oldest son of the Yuuki family can be said as deadly mistake. Why, because this man has absolutely no desire to convince Kazuma.

“Kazuma, you “bastard”, I will cut you ten-thousand pieces.” (Note: there is one character, I think in Mandarin, Japanese, and Korean that is equal to ten-thousand. Historically ten-thousand is also a big number, can also be infinite.)

“If he is dead, it will become problematic. At least let’s leave him with the ability to talk when we take him back.”

As they wait for the upcoming report, they will directly head towards Kazuma’s direction. Of course, they have absolutely no desire to persuade him. At least they didn’t have this kind of desire, but what they never contemplated was that they would be ones assaulted.

“Still not ready yet?”

“It’s going to be ready soon.”

This kind of discussion cannot satisfy them at all; don’t know how many times they have repeatedly asked. Given that the two of them are waiting to receive the same report, they should know it doesn’t matter how they ask… .

“What the hell are they doing, that useless Fuuga clan! It’s only that one person Kazuma, can’t they easily bring him over!”

Shingo reprimanded angrily, in reality they have turn the arrowhead towards the Fuuga clan.

“This is worrying, Fuga clan might even be connected to this situation.”
Takeya forcefully said some pretty words to sway Shingo, Fuga shielding him isn’t impossible, using words that attack them, in order to change the attention of Shingo is certainly welcomed.

Thinking momentarily, Shingo grinded his teeth angrily and said.

“Damn, they only have slightly sharper senses, what is there to be complacent about.”

“Don’t say it like that; they are just a bunch of sad people with non-discussable/nil fighting power. Even failing to do something simple, are they not very pathetic?”

“That’s right, hahaahahahahahaaaaa…”

Just like Takeya have wished, Shingo have completely forgotten about the issue to reprimand. Hearing this sudden liberated laughter, Takeya has a thought — — Not like what was heard 10 seconds ago “Still not ready yet?” Similarly he feels very slow and lengthy.

“Incoming, in the area right head about 500 meters, looks like he hasn’t noticed.”

Suddenly, amidst the conversation between the two a voice appears. This is a jutsu used by Fuuga clan called “Method of Summoning/Calling Spirits” used for sending the voice.
This allows the wind to carry the voice, even works for large distances.

“Coming, won’t leave him no limbs, neither legs nor arms, burn it all. Let’s attack!”

This was not voiced for anybody to hear, only Shingo’s mumblings to himself. This can be seen from the hatred-filled eyes; certainly really problematic.

Even though they didn’t continue their discussion how to punish, at least put up some resistance, that’s how he thinks. Until he’s half dead, could slowly torture him besides what was mentioned before, there’s plenty more.

Takeya slightly separated himself and quickly glanced, being with someone this dangerous, his thoughts from inner self a certain divide. 

Just like that a divide in the friendship, appears Kazuma.

Facing that with no alertness, completely nonchalant——viewed from their perspective—— walks along Kazuma, Takeya in order to alert him shouted.

“Long time no see, Kazuma!”

“Ah, the successor from the Oogami?”

At that instance, to connect your recollection and present needs time. But, Takeya is waiting for that instance.

It’s this kind of prideful self-elevation that results in lagging concentration.

“Know why we are looking for you?”

Takeya pressures that Shingo with blood-filled eyes ready to release fireballs, using a condescending method of speech.

“Nope, I completely don’t know.”

Kazuma reply could be described as “couldn’t be more direct”, but also apparently has some percentage of challenge. By crunching his head and neck and making a certain exaggerating and sarcastic action, then shook his head in denial, predictably piss Takeya off enough for veins to be showing.
Takeya succeeded in controlling his anger, and recovering his cool begins to explain.

“Yesterday night, Kannagi Clan had three jutsu practitioners killed.

“uhmm ——, and?

And like with all the authority Kazuma asked pressuringly.

“The one that killed was a fuujutsu practitioner.

“……………………..”

“……………………..”

The surroundings was covered by silence. Warm wind blowing through the dusk “Tree-Shadow” Road  , the red leaves lightly started to dance, shining upon by crimson sun the red leaves are dyed even a darker shade of red, this is the beauty that appears before the darkness controlled world.

“……………..”

The first to open his mouth was Kazuma’s side, compared to silence, it seems like he further detest being stared by men.

“So what is the matter?”

“The suzerain has things to ask you, follow!”

“It wasn’t me! Finished!”

The instance after saying such words and was thinking to leave, Kazuma suddenly bounced horizontally
outwards, an instance before in the space where Kazuma existed, without touching anything appeared a fireball.

Kazuma —— doesn’t know why Takeya —— looks towards Shingo , consequently Shingo using a deep, like a natural born deep voiced snigger.

“Hmhmhm, what’s the matter, you finally did it? Then, there is no other way besides using power to suppress!”

At the same time of the shout, surrounding Shingo tongues of crimson begin to burn and dance.
The flames that appear at the same time as the yell, even though connected to Shingo’s body, the clothes were not burnt. Shingo had surprisingly unthought-of carefulness.

Like the flames that continue to move on his body, Shingo was so happy that his lips were slanted, and said in like a proclamation.

“If you can’t speak about it then it is questionable, I'll burn off your arms and legs! Lessening the weight will make it easier to transport around! Won’t kill you now, but you can’t continue living in such a humiliating condition? After the suzerain finishes his questioning I’ll be nice and kill you! Within one week! Use this time for you to fully regret living. I want you to know! Killing Shinji, absolutely cannot allow you to continue living untroubled!”

Assuming the future will be like that was his words were saying. But, Kazuma facing crazily laughing Shingo, looked as if he was watching some rare animal, asked very seriously.

“Kannagi Clan has recently given food to this kind of thing?”

“—No, Ahh….hu….”

Takeya really had no reply. Considering himself to be normal, did want to recognize that the thing with him is the same kind.

“That person usually adores Shinji, now he hates you who killed Shinji is quite within reason.”

“That’s why I said it wasn’t me.”

“Then please go and clarify everything with the suzerain.”

“I am no longer part of the Kannagi Clan; if he has business with me tell him to come look for me himself, please pass it like that to him.”

“… Negotiation is broken then, it seems.”

In order to make good the words, Takeya raised his ki. He then directed the surrounding dancing fire spirits to dance with his self-conscious.

The surrounding temperature was raised enough to be felt by the skin. Even though the fire spirits haven’t materialize, the surroundings have evidently changes in physics.

Seems like frightened in faced of such elevated fighting spirit, scores of red leaves continually fluttered down, the bright red leaves before touching Takeya’s body instantly changes to ashes and floated off.

Still Kazuma, like before, stood there with hands in the leather jacket watched the two of them. It seems like he has no desire to confront the Kannagi Clan, of course it is hard to see from that kind of pose.

“This is the last opportunity; yield humbly to us, Kazuma.”

Faced with Takeya last ultimatum, Kazuma raises his middle finger and says.

“Take a good look at yourselves before coming.”

“Die!!!!!”

“You idiot!”

At the instance of starting the jutsus, the two believed that victory would be certain. Because in the clan the two of the strongest class attacking at the same time. No matter what kind of strategy Kazuma had, face with kind of massive power is useless.

But——

Poou! 

The fireball from Takeya hand, suddenly instanteously explodes. Above the sound, the fireball in his credulity had such a big categorical runaway explosion.

The fireball that left Takeya’s control, was like a wild animal with its tooth pulled. Even with the protection of the fire spirit, it is still no possible to shield the crash of the explosion’s force.
Instantly the force of the explosion hits the entire body, Takeya was simply KO-ed.

(W,What? What had happened…? Shit, Shingo, leave….)

Even though “Leave the rest to you” this kind of saying, but Shingo similarly lost his conscious, because on his face the black and blue continuously pulsed.

Kazuma returns his hands back in the pockets of the leather jacket; lowering his head at the two people. After releasing a condescending grin, he walked right by the two unconscious persons' side.

Even though it seems like he wanted to directly leave, at that time Kazuma stops his footsteps. Then as if he felt something, looked towards the trees where no one is at.

“If you want to pick a fight with me, I won’t be merciful!?”

At the same time of this warning, one of the trees separated. Without any noise from the chopped tree following the break slowly slid down.

Already forgetting to hide the body, stood dumbly staring at Kazuma, then Kazuma turns to leave. The guarding jutsu practitioner was fearful. The one that was lured was himself? The prey we were hunting is this frightening thing——?

=== 3 ===
“Seriously, otou-san (father) worries too much. I alone is enough don’t know how many times this has been repeated. When will he acknowledge me? Am I this untrustworthy?”

“The suzerain acknowledges ojo-sama’s (mistress) abilities, only as a father he simply worries about his daughter.”

Confronted with the disgruntled Ayano, the man of fortieth generation/years-old cajoled.

At this time, Ayano was ordered to a certain temple in the city of Yokohama Yamate, to strengthen the weakening seal inside. The day before the accident, encountered the employer of Kazuma —— of course, single mindedness heading to location to vanquish the spirits, and not understand the reason. '''! '''

Upon arrival to the location discovered the seal has deteriorated to point beyond the previously assumed limits. Ayano immediately destroys the idea of the resealing, instead decided to eliminate it. Then without any testing she immediately ripped off the seal.

Popular saying was. “This method is faster.” 

People without significant confidence in ones own ability would not say something like that, certainly the two men that accompanied her also know that she has the necessary ability to go along with such self-confidence.

Certainly, Juugo also knows that she has this kind of ability, but such worries of a father are within reason. Even describing Juugo as stupid or foolish, most of times he sends two or more people to protect her.

“Don’t mix the work with private life, is frequently lectured no matter when. Don’t follow your own desires and do things, Uncle Masato?” 

Still discharging her annoyances, Ayano faced that guy —— the younger brother of the Yuuki family head, complaining to Masato.
“Because he is the suzerain, he cannot mull over such minor issues.”
In this manner on Masato’s thin face appeared a smile and laughter. As a member of the branch families, he certainly wasn’t thinking about the consequences. But, it seems like Ayano hasn’t really noticed or cared.

This man——Oogami Masato, although possessing a strength greater than his older brother, disliked scheming for the position of family head, so went off to Tibet to train like a eccentric person.

When he returned to Japan he was given the “Protect Ayano” mission. Juugo has a high regard of him, and from the first time Ayano went on a mission he continually was responsible for this kind of protecting job.

Certainly, Ayano also has good feelings about this easy-going relative. Due to the surrounding people’s princess like treatment of her, faced with Masato’s kind of causal attitude is quite refreshing for her, furthermore it feels very good.

Consequently “Uncle Masato, ojo-sama this kind of terminology, is like a real family without any separation.

“Maybe it is to allow the younger jutsu practitioner to learn, this kind of reasoning is still possible. Isn’t that, Takeshi… Takeshi?”

“Ahh, Yes!?”

The young jutsu practitioner using admiring eyes staring at Ayano —— Oogami Takeshi’s uncle hollered many times before he finally paid attention.

“Did you not hear… Stopping staring stupidly at Ojo-sama, be prepared, it is not known when the seal will be released.”
“Yes, I have understood! Just like what Uncle have said! To be allowed to watch Ayano-sama striking fighting method is really a great honor!”

In order to not screw-up in front of Ayano, Takeshi uselessly shouts in a loud voice. In that stare at Ayano, appears compared to respect, has more admiration and reverence. For Takeshi’s generation of jutsu practitioners, Ayano has existence of a goddess. Hoping to watch her striking manner from close by guarding is something everyone will accept.

“Yes——It’s——like——this?”
“Yes, it’s like that!”

The exhilaration to be able to talk to Ayano is something seen through Takeshi’s entire body language. Of course, Ayano doesn’t like being seen like that. Seems like herself is being separated from being “normal”, changed to something she can’t wait.

No matter what, no matter how it is explained is useless. That’s only Takeshi’s simple, compared to himself much stronger and beautiful existence, means of showing deference.

“Ah, forget it. … It’s about time.”

Ayano sensing the expanding ki of the youma, relaxingly turns herself towards the main hall. Mini-skirt starting to flutter and dance.

Now recalling, why would Ayano be wearing her high school uniform.

This is not only to allow her to normally attend a high school.

Because if you think about it, the best suited outfit for a high school student is the uniform. So Juugo, especially focused on this point, used within his the range of abilities added the best class of defensive spells.

The material, in order to allow better transpiration, was the best type of silk. That is during the process of fabrication air is mixed in, furthermore everything is made from expensive materials.

A result by inputting great amounts of money and time, a high school uniform; it is not wrong to say that it is a work of art. Its cost could be comparable. It could be said that is enough to buy a car, no, not really, correctly said it can buy a luxury house without being wrong.

Of course Ayano pays attention to this outfit —— not towards its capabilities —— because it is a gift given by her father —— so she frequently wears this outfit in combat.

Wearing this outfit that can be said as the world’s most expensive combat outfit, protecting Ayano, watching as the seal is about to be broken, took a deep breath, then moving and warming-up her own inner strength.

Pah!

The clear sound of clapping starts to vibrate the space. When the two close palms were opened, in between the two palms appears a flaming line. Then Ayano grasp it with her right hand, making a horizontal outwards swinging motion.

The around 1 meter burning line, at that instance materializes, a crimson red sword.

This is a no blunt side, having two edges bright crimson red sword. The [body] of the sword is surrounded by a golden flame, releasing vivid beauty of a light. Just like that, as beautiful as one will imagine. 

That sword is the Kannagi Clan’s supreme treasure, Enraiha. That is Kannagi Clan founder, [huh], rewarded by King of the Flame Spirits passed down defeating devils/evil of treasured sword. '''!'''

Ayano lifts upwards the Enraiha, then adds her left hand to grasp the sword making a downward stroke. Along the path of the stroke, appear spreading golden pieces. Then instantly and prettily stopping the sword before her eyes, no matter if it is done ten-thousands times or hundred thousand times, it is a beautiful motion that can be forgiven.

A vase that has already approached its limits, with a “pong” bursts open. Even faster than the falling pieces, a white light shoots towards Ayano.

Ayano from the front makes a downward stroke with Enraiha, and then goes forward to attack. Attacking that white object that produces a sound “like the sound produce when the water is evaporated by a flat frying pan”.

“Sticky stuff…!?” 
Ayano faced with the string that was smashed by her and said mumbling.
Then changed her vision to the inside of the main hall, there was a few points like something like lights. That thing slowly moves forward, and then reveals its own appearance.

“Wah…”

Ayano inadvertently surprised, that thing that appeared is ——

Having multiple eyes, beyond eight feet, the entire body covered with dirty yet rigid fur, a segmented animal producing sounds, “kulah, kulah”, as its legs moved. When you see its full appearance, no matter whom, will feel shivers not due to cold. Really is a horrify spider freak.

“Earth Spider huh... Need help?”

“Not necessary”

Ayano immediately replies. Even though it produces a very disgusting feeling, but now is not the time for complaints. Seems like she’s more afraid of disappointing her otou-san, compared to that, fighting against spiders or cockroaches is nothing in comparison.

(Come here…)

Summoning fire spirits do not need chants and such. As if following Ayano’s thinking, fire spirits itself assemble, flying into Enraiha. Along the sword blade the flame, the light transformed to even brighter.

With the range that’s reachable by her awareness, Ayano continuously summoning spirits. Juugo don’t know how many times instructed her many times, don’t be like other jutsu practitioners, it is not commanding the spirits, you can’t be too arrogant.

“They and we have same level of existence.” 

This saying is frequently repeated by Juugo, spirits are the means to safeguard the existence of the world’s order. Because the Kannagi Clan have contract with the spirit king, therefore the spirits are only helpers.

Of course Ayano also understands, her own strength is borrowed. Only to seal or vanquish the inconsistencies in the world’s order that the power is gifted for a short period of time.

That’s why it isn’t ordering them. Because knowing such matters are not necessary. If the known the correct way of thinking, fire spirits will certainly answer.

Like having respect for the world, it’s not in order to obtain huge powers and being arrogant, Ayano no matter when always calls like this: “Please, lend me your strength….”

“V… Very formidable….”

Takeshi watches dumbfounded, this enormous number of spirits gathering on Ayano’s body, the amount of spirits he can manage is only one small portion of this in comparison. For him it’s the first time seeing the main family’s power, the difference is between the sky and the ground.

“Ah, formidable, right!?”

Just like show off his own condition, Masato said smiling.

“Even though we recently said it, no matter how hard we work, we won’t be able to reach such levels.”

Already forgotten his uncle’s reply, Takeshi one again looks at Ayano.

Ayano holding the Enraiha, continues to confront the earth spider.

(What should be done… looks like can’t get close…)

Even though enough spirits are already summoned to destroy the earth spider, but given this long distance really don’t have the confidence. Even though Enraiha is an ancient sword for [summoning], but to using a sword it is necessary to employ it to its fullest potential.

In other words get close, from a close distance to puncture or split the earth spider, then from inside its body burn it completely.

(Of course if that was done, certainly from the cut’s aperture will fly out adhesive matter… after the explosion fragments will all fly towards the body… if it’s female, after opening its skin, there might be hundreds of spiders coming out… No———!)

Just thinking about it makes the hairs stand, inside Ayano starts complaining bitter. If Takeshi could read Ayano’s inner thoughts then, maybe the thoughts of reverence might be corrected can even be said. 

The earth spider seems to capture the currently mulling Ayano’s openings; “palapala” using the long legs changed his body moving forwards.

“You want to escape!?”

Suddenly towards the chasing Ayano, from the tail spits out white silk, at the same time Ayano pulls up Enraiha to face it.

From Enraiha emerges an golden flame, even though it burned the spider’s web, but because of the blockage by the silk, Ayano still could not get close to the earth spider.

Then Ayano only could stop, focus her mind. Then she took a deep breath tuning her ki, calmed down.

(This kind of things can’t do any kind of obstruction, kill it in couple seconds.)

Then bringing up the Enraiha, then with her full strength performed a downwards swing. Golden Flame ——the highest level of fire of purification, not only completely burned the earth spider’s web, then closed-in directly at the earth spider itself.

Pong!!

With the sounds of explosion, the in the explosion earth spider is surrounded by flames.

“Got…Gotcha…?”

But as Ayano dubiously mumbles while looking into the flames, appearing into her vision was only a white cocoon-like object. What really surprised Ayano, the “pishpiish” sound that splits open.

Pang!

Just like a thin layer of glass shattering, from the middle the cocoon splits open, that earth spider completely without harm again appears.

Probably the web contained some special component that could block spiritual energies, then using that covering its body to hide, avoiding the purifying powers to be completely purified.

“It’s, it’s quite formidable, hu…”

Ayano said using a sing-song voice. At first glance seems very calm, but carefully studying will discover her “sun-vein”  has already risen.

Even though this was not a full strength strike, but was completely deflected, Ayano’s self-confidence certainly was hurting a lot.

“Only a little bug don’t be so haughty ——!!”

Resonating Ayano’s anger, an even greater amount of fire spirits was gathered, even though there is no materialization, but in the vicinity, already gathered the equal spirits to a volcano opening.

“Then… regretting it now?”

Accompanying anger, Ayano already entered selfless state. Composure has completely been commanded by anger, and then transformed into strength.

Continously summoning stronger, even stronger spirits. This time it isn’t directed releasing towards one area, but given immovable strength of mind, at the same time directly releasing in one direction. 

This time Ayano holds Enraiha in a direction perpendicular to her body, then seriously chasing it, took a deep breath, then with sharp kiai releasing it.

“Haa!!”

At that instance, the flame flew into the earth spider’s body. Then the abdomen expanded and exploded, changed it into a miniature torch.

In this seemly small torch, can be described as gathering the entire area’s fire spirits. The explosion of the fireball became even bigger, this time the earth spider is certainly transformed to ashes.

Afterwards nothing was left, spider’s body pieces and the youma spirit around was completed purified. Right now, the temple where the youma was vanquished was full on a “special air” that only temples have.

If attacking from the outside can be defended, then simply attack from the inside. Even though describing is easy, to actually do it is close to something impossible.

This is like what the world’s own close relationship with the spirits. That’s right, like the life force/life activity of living beings.

In the body living beings that have water, cannot be uninfluenced by the water spirits, and those living beings that have heat, within the body resides fire spirits.

For example, just like the youma, even though it materializes, it can’t escape this rule.

In ordinary circumstances, to control the spirit residing within the body is impossible.

These kind of infinitely close to a living beings’ survival instinct involves enormous willpower, the origin of life can be said to not allow anyone to control.

Even for a genius, can’t control it so easily according to one’s likings. But, in this world, no matter when there are people entire day saying “logical boundaries” foolish and sad humans.

“Heh. It’s this kind of thing.”

Ayano releasing a pleasing smile, turn around in order to go back.

“Then, let’s go!...”

During this dialogue that couldn’t continue, Ayano stupidly stares at the two’s body language. Probably the bigger body is Masato, on his left is Takeshi. From the clothes it should be right.

But——

(How come there’s no head…?)

These two guys, the taller one both hands still in the pockets, the other one seems not able to control his exhilaration, in front of his chest holding a fist, standing naturally.

When you look at it and there’s no head, doesn’t seem like an odd situation.

So Ayano looks toward the ground, there is two round objects entering her eyes. Ayano stumbling, seems like about to fall, close in and kneeled, then lifted it onto her knees. Even though it’s quite heavy, but as Ayano smelled the odor of the guy that she really liked, smiled. Ayano, from very young fought together, taught her the ways of survival/existence, hugged the head. Quietly mumbles.

“Uncle… head… fell down… uh…’

On Ayano appears sad smile, and then tries to put Masato’s head back on. Although thinking by doing this, he will return to life, stubbornly forcing the head back in.

Like mocking Ayano this kind of useless actions, hidden an unseen sword blade, lightly carves Masato’s body. In one second, this big body was separated into hundreds or even thousands slices of meat.

Because the heart has stopped pumping a while ago, so the fresh blood did not fly out from the sharp cuts.

But, although there is no sound of blood flow, nor the sounds of flesh breaking, still abnormally gives a person a feeling of reality.

Under the blowing of the wind, Masato’s body without sound was taken apart. Like gone through a paper shredder the pieces of meat, like flower petals dancing in the sky.

In the instance of the image, Ayano watched as if frozen.

Drop.

Accompaning the like water droplet sound something drops on the face, Ayano unconsciously tries to remove it.

That is a bright red piece, still has some remaining warmth of a meat slice. When understood what is carried on here fingers, Ayano’s consciousness seem to be passed through a filter, small amount of recovering.

“No.”

That is once a part belonging on Masato’s body. But those miserable remains no longer can be described as a corpse.

“Don’t want!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

At this moment, Ayano screams as far as can be heard.

“Kukuku—————“

That sound, even though it can vibrate the air, this snigger sound, it wasn’t directly sent into the brain. If you want to describe it, accompany this “snigger” are the strong feelings. This kind of derision towards one opponent’s “awareness”, seems like it provoked Ayano, it’s just that annoying.

Faced with situation of the appearance of the enemy, normally frequently training the body and the spirit, Ayano, instantly enters fighting mode.

Then burying deep within the feelings of anguish, substituting a feeling of animation and anticipation.

Changing the arrowhead of the anger towards the opponent, and especially challenging the opponent.

“Come out!”

Already surpassing the limits of anger, on the face of humans that already cannot be expressed. But Ayano seems to determine it can, looks upwards.

There exists ''that thing''. In the front on a branch where a huge tree stands a human shadow completely not fearing dangers, right hand in the pockets of his clothing.

Because that is place of little light, was not able to clearly see the opponents face, but it doesn’t really matter anymore. The out flowing evil ki already told her “This is the enemy.”

Ayano silently swings Enraiha upwards.

There is no need to know who, nor the need to accumulate strength. Only calmly mix in the killing intention, and then kill it in one strike. This kind of sharpened killing intention transformed into a flaming sword blade running upwards.

Lightly, clearly moving without regards to weight, ''that thing'' avoids the flaming sword blade. Then flew onto the roof (with a leap?). Afterwards, ''that thing'' looks towards Ayano, ''that thing'' slowly moves the body. Seems to say chase away.

This is clearly a trap and Ayano bravely accepts this kind of provocation.

(Even it is a trap, it doesn't matter, I will absolutely annihilate you.)

Deep within submitting to such type of anger, Ayano has already changed into a rampage for revenge.

=== 4 ===
In the sky suddenly appears ki of youma.

“Hmm…”

Kazuma suddenly looks towards the sky, it seems like in order for the strength to not spread, it is gathering bit by bit in the sky. Suddenly a wind blade flashes, there really is no time to even defend, and even flying backwards to escape took the full effort.

The wind blade passes right by the still rolling Kazuma, then slightly corrects its angle, with one stroke separated into two pieces the Fuuga practitioner, Shingo, Takeya the three of them.

“Wait, Wait a second!!”

Kazuma without thinking yelled, this would changed the situation into something unthought-of.

(I, I was actually ambushed?)

To face an ambush situation, actually is first time this had happened. Further, it was an ambush by a wind spirit? No matter who had summoned it, gathering this degree of wind spirit, it is impossible that Kazuma didn’t feel it. No matter how great of a fuujutsu-shi, using fuu-jutsu cannot deceive Kazuma. This question is not simply the difference in distance in abilities, but the rules are simply that this.

But, now occurred an impossible situation. Kazuma immediately broke off his thoughts, focus towards the thing in the sky.

“What’s… that thing...?”

Really small, maybe a thing smaller than 20 mm, was floating in the sky about 20-30 meters above. Nearby five risen things fly out.

“One’s hand…? Doesn’t seem so, red leaf…?

No matter how you look it doesn’t seem like it’s flying in the sky, it’s not controlling the wind. In a questioning look, suddenly Kazuma discovers what that thing really is.

It’s a human hand. A strange human hand is flying in the sky. Even recognizing it doesn’t solve anything, still can’t change that 3 people have been killed.

(Anyway, first let’s defeat it!)

Using only a voice that can be hear by himself mumbles, what looks like a hand flies into the upper sky —— then disappears.

“Wait! What are you actually thinking!?”

Kazuma then protested towards the wind spirit, this is clearly against the agreement. But, the spirit only has uncertain sound, and couldn’t tell Kazuma the actual place of the disappeared hand.

“What is going on…”

The miserable condition in front of his eyes —— the divided into two portion Fuuga practitioner and the separated corpses of Shingo and Takeya —— if like this, it seems just like it was done by Kazuma.

Spirit disobeyed the covenant? —— impossible.

To Kazuma, if he heard this kind of situation from someone else, would be quite skeptical of the correct mindset of the opponent. That’s why what just happened is a very irregular situation. 

Spirit does have cognizant qualities. [Original Rules] —— it’s when the world was first created, don’t know by whom, towards this existential world created immutable laws—— and to obey it, allowing this world to remain this kind of shape and reality. Just like the bees have to live in a beehive, just like one part of itself recognizes him, one part even though it has intelligence is still impossible that it thinks. Of course, it’s impossible for it to have the type of free will to break a covenant.

If the spirits had the free will to move about, then the laws of science will be broken. The world will be destroyed within 3 days.

All the wind spirits will obey Kazuma. [What belongs to Him] This kind of covenant certainly reflects this kind of meaning. For example—— 
“That’s impossible…”

Kazuma thinking of the worst scenario, weakly sighs saying.

(There’s someone like me? No way…)

Just thinking about it brings shivers not from cold, but it can’t be said as good luck —— no matter what, Kazuma doesn’t want to think that—— but right now it’s not the best time to stop and think.

Because he sensed a huge fire spirits coming towards here.

(This time even Infrit has come? Crap, when has Japan become world of youma!? Note: Infrit is the name of fire god.)

Even before finishing talking, appeared a situation that Kazuma could not have predicted.

Appearing is a shoujo. Accompanying the red fire and eyes where resides that hatred-filled fire, holding in the right hand accumulated power is ——

“Kazuma —— !!”

The strength of the fire spirits gathered in the right hand has already crystallized. Ayano seems to in that instance made up her mind.

Chop!!

Entering the rapidly retreating Kazuma’s eyes is, Ayano swings the red sword. For his clan, more important compared to everything else. Also the thing that made his life very chaotic.

Kazuma, when faced with the godly sword no matter what would like to escape, sees this, yells.

“Enraiha !? Are you, Ayano!”

Only answer is a sword flash from the Enraiha, faced with filled with killing intent and not listening to anything Ayano, tries really hard to explain.

“Hey, hey wait a moment, misunderstanding! Wasn’t killed by me… hey, you should listen to what other people are saying!”

Flaming white fireballs continuously approaching, Kazuma continuously dodging and saying, but Ayano seems like completely not hearing it.

Because the esteemed Masato got killed, Ayano is already too angry and has already forgotten herself. Really have no time to listen to people talking. Furthermore, given what her otou-san told her that this is guy is quite suspicious.

Dang!!

“Hey!!!”

Believing already evading the fireball suddenly together it explodes, then blocking Kazuma’s retreat. Then noticed, Ayano using the explosion time sealing off the way, appears in front of his eyes swinging the Enraiha.

“Uncle’s revenge !!”

“!!”

That motion a two part strike which wants to split Kazuma like a bamboo, escapes by shifting his body sideways, then from the top using his palm pressuring the sword handle. Facing Ayano who’s with fiery anger, face filling with blood yells.

“Otou-san —— Genma died?”

But before finishing saying such, figured out there was a mistake, even though Ayano and Genma’s relationship isn’t so bad that it can been seen from the outside, certainly if Genma were to die, Ayano would not be getting revenge for him.

A person appears in his head, a man, “uncle”, from the Oogami family that Ayano is very close to.

The name probably was —— like !!

“—— pong” 

Suddenly Ayano butted her head upwards, and then heavily hit his chin. Because of his pondering, his reflexes are slower, even though it was quickly evaded, but still the hit caused his head to be dizzy and painful.

Even though dizzy, but he still calmly asked.

“Oogami Masato died?

But Ayano faced became even more somber, further forcefully focus more strength into the Enraiha in her hand, from a distance it can be clearly seen.

(Seems like the opposite effect is done…)

Shruggin his shoulders, faced with a person filled with anger, having no more questions to ask. Faced with this confused by anger little girl no matter what is done is useless.

But, she can’t be killed. If he hurt her, probably the fool’s father, Juugo, would completely recognize him as an enemy. This needs to be avoided. 

This is not because he fears Juugo, who is the Kannagi clan’s historically strongest jutsu practitioner. But it is because as “Kannagi Kazuma”, Juugo can be said to be his only friend. In order not to not create sorrow to him, so there is only one method.

“Ah—— Ayano-chan? I’m —— leaving then, the issue with cleaning up the corpses will be left to you. Then see-ya.”

Prettily avoiding the completely tenacious approaching flames, Kazuma decides to escape.

“——Wait, Wait a second!”

Kazuma with his back towards Ayano who wants to stop him leaps up, then surrounded by wind flying upwards about 10 meters, then suddenly disappears.

“What—— where at?”

Right on top of, the still looking around, Kazuma floats along.

Employing the air to change the reflection rate of light, becoming see-through just like wearing a transparent robe. If look closely one can see the parts where there’s waves created by high heat, but for Ayano, who is being controlled by anger and has forgotten herself, she didn’t noticed.

But Kazuma didn’t take pleasure in watching the troubled Ayano, but was thinking about what to do later on.

What is realizable now is that the guilty person who killed Shingo and Takeya no matter how you described it is Kazuma, furthermore also killing Oogami Masato.

(They want to enter complete war with the Kannagi clan? If that’s the case it might be quite interesting, allows people to get excited… then, how will it progress?)

hehe, hmmhmmhmm.

Kazuma burst out laughing. Kannagi clan and the mysterious fuujutsu-shi, two strong things already assaulting his life, of course Kazuma cannot ignore this.

<noinclude>
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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Back to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter1

2007-06-10T10:21:19Z

Kwok: no more indents

== Chapter One - The Disinherited Son Returns ==

=== 1 ===

"What bad taste……"

That was the first impression he had of the client. Incidentally, it should also be noted, that this is an impression that did not change in the slightest all the way to the end.

In this hilly high-class residential area, the mansion was sitting arrogantly on display. With a design that completely disregarded the harmony of its surroundings, there were plenty of reasons to doubt the owner's true character.

If one were to disregard the bad taste thus far, one might have to say it was rather magnificent. Climbing up Governor's Hill, about as close by as the famous Catholic girl's school, was the mansion. When he saw it, he was honestly, completely stunned.

(Did Turkish harems have this feel?)

Yagami Kazuma didn't seem to be joking when he thought that. "Don't paint the walls of a Japanese house in such wild colors!" he wanted to preach, while grabbing that person's collar. It was that kind of house.

This could probably be considered the place of origin of Japan's Westernization movement. The first gaslight was lit here; ice cream was put on sale here first. One would have expected it to be a stylish, refined town with a distinguished history.

(Considering that, this is probably some kind of breach of contract……)

He saw a decorated golden carp on the roof and let out a sigh. The image that was held dear in Yokohama, had crumbled away completely, with a clattering sound.

When he had accepted the job at the agency, he was given not only an address, but also a detailed map. It had been completely unnecessary, however. By asking the neighborhood residents, "What's the house with the poorest taste around here?" probably even a monkey could manage to find his way here.

A structure that was painful to the eyes —— he didn't want to call that a house —— that upon viewing, made Kazuma look up to the sky, begging. The sky was empty and blue.

"Hey, at least it's work……"

He muttered to convince himself.

However, this is the same Kazuma whose look probably couldn't by any means be called appropriate for work.

Jeans and sneakers, a checkered shirt and a black jacket. His youth, at 22 years old, and his relaxed facial expression made him seem, no matter how you looked at it, no different from a student from the nearby university.

He was completely blind to his own faults. While continuing his observations, he noticed something strange.

The darkness covering the mansion was thicker than he had been told. Because of this, maybe even an ordinary person with no spirit sight could sense darkness in the mansion's surroundings.

(Maybe I'll just go back……)

Nagged by a horribly bad premonition, Kazuma was halfway seriously thinking about that.

The darkness that covered the mansion —— it was something more unearthly than he had expected, but it wasn't so much that he couldn't deal with it. For this reason, this premonition was a bad omen. There was something else up.

Judging from his experiences up to now, it was a credible and important premonition. However, he couldn't just throw away work on that alone.

This was his first assignment in Japan. If he broke off the arrangement with only a "For some reason or another," he probably wouldn't be able to get jobs in the future.

With heavy steps, he made his way toward the mansion. He stopped once more, in front of a nonsensically huge gate.

While standing in front of the doorbell, Kazuma was still unsure. Danger signals were bombarding his instincts. He couldn't help wanting to run away. However ——

"Yagami-sama, I presume."

Without any warning, a voice came from the intercom, and completely disrupted Kazuma's thinking. He jumped back with a start, and stood guarded. The voice continued from before, without concern for this.

"You have been expected. Kindly enter through the auxiliary entrance on the side."

Click.

Simultaneous with those words, a small door to the ride side of the gate unlocked. Apparently he was supposed to just go in.

(Compared with that "You have been expected," that's some rude treatment…)

He was feeling uncomfortable, but he was dealing with a customer. As instructed, he entered through the side door.

Inside the fence was awash with a large number of security cameras and sensors. They must live a very shadowy life.

Upon walking into the entranceway, multiple cameras followed him. With anger almost to the point of wanting to kill whoever was putting him under this rude surveillance, Kazuma somehow repressed himself.

"Eeek……"

That's what he'd intended, but apparently it had shown on his face. The face of the maid, who had come to greet him, was filled with a fear akin to having come across a man-eating bear. Kazuma hurriedly smoothed over his expression.

"Welcome, please come this way."

She went from a horrible face, as if she were being picked up and eaten, to an overly bright smile.

It didn't seem possible for someone to change their expression that dramatically, forgetting their suspicions, but the maid smiled as if nothing had happened. A pro.

As the maid walked ahead, Kazuma observed her gratifyingly swaying bottom, while going to the living room to wait.

(It would have been better if I'd left……)

As soon as he was guided into the living room, Kazuma felt deep regret at his choice. There inside, was a thin little man, self-importantly lying back, legs outstretched —— the master of the mansion, and client, Sakamoto Nanigashi —— but he wasn't alone. There was one practitioner as well, a face he knew well.

That practitioner, upon recognizing Kazuma, showed fear on his face for a moment, and then immediately twisted his lips into a sneer, glaring at Kazuma with a face full of scorn.

"What, the other practitioner was you, Kazuma? You became a disinherited child of the Kannagi's because of your incompetence, and now you dare to call yourself a practitioner?"

Probably, those explanatory words were for Sakamoto to hear. Practitioner —— Kannagi. The youngest child of the branch family Yuuki, Shinji truly took great pleasure in abusing Kazuma.

Sakamoto showed the response Shinji had expected. His expression changed, and he approached Kazuma.

"So this is true, then? Isn't this different from what you said? You said you were a top class spiritual practitioner, so I hired you!"

Kazuma calmly —— while retreating the same distance as the other advanced —— answered.

"I don't know what the person at the agency said. If you're dissatisfied, perhaps I should leave?"

"Hmmph, that's right."

Sakamoto's eyes showed a faintly cunning light. Kazuma's, even at the best of times, scarce desire to work, quickly neared zero.

"Mmmm, how about this? Why don't you both try the exorcism, and only the successful one gets paid. Ahh, naturally I won't tell the loser to return the advance payment."

"Good idea, yeah."

They had been flippant words, but Shinji had immediately accepted them. And then, with the face of someone who has been completely made a fool of, he asked Kazuma.

"And what are you going to do?"

"I'm out."

Kazuma gave an immediate reply. In the scornful stares of the two, not even one muscle of an eyebrow moved.

"Hmmph, coward, sucking your finger. I'll show you a model example of Enjutsu."

"Model example, eh. Didn't you say that? Just like the youngest child of the branch family."

"Y-you!"

Having the one he looked down upon, in return look down upon him, Shinji was enraged. He completely forgot about being in front of a client, tightened a fist, and struck out.

It was a fist intent on crushing the skull, which Kazuma handled by opening his body to the left.

In the instant that Shinji's right thrust was dodged, he transferred the movement energy to his left leg, without stopping the rotation of his hips.

In reaction to the shift in center of gravity, his left leg flew up in a rotating kick from Kazuma's blind spot, aiming for his temple.

However, Kazuma, as if he had seen it, lightly bent his head back. The heel of Shinji's left leg passed by a few millimeters in front of his eyes.

Kazuma's movements were like the leaves of a tree swaying in the wind, without hesitation. Into the space the kicking foot had left, he entered, with complete spontaneity, and lightly swept Shinji's pivot leg. Shinji, his left leg still floating in the air, under the power of his own rotational power, violently slammed into the floor.

"Sh-shit!"

Shinji had just barely managed to do ukemi, and quickly got back up. Incorrigibly, he assumed a fighting posture.

"You — thinking you could beat me in Taijutsu? Even four years ago, you weren't a match for me. There's no way you could be an opponent for my current self."

"Sh-shut up!"

Kazuma showed not the least bit of triumph. He chided disinterestedly, as if facing a defiant child. Being looked down upon from such a securely elevated position, Shinji's reason made a sound and broke.

"Stop it right there, you two."

However, just then, a restraining voice spoke, and the two turned at the same time to the voice's owner. Sakamoto showed great satisfaction at having gotten their attention. Then, in a tone as if he were an extremely important person, he scolded them.

"I didn't call you here to have a fight. The furnishings in this room, no matter which one you look at, are each more expensive than what I'm paying you. Any kind of rough behavior would be troublesome, okay?"

Suddenly, around the vicinity of the money talk, there was a scumbag. The person in question was probably attempting to flaunt his assets, but for the ones made to listen, it was nothing but the stink of the nouveau riche pushed up their noses.

(Maybe I'll leave…… since I still get the advance payment.)

With the discomfort index continuing to rise, with no end in sight, Kazuma's desire to work had already dropped into minus territory. He couldn't help feeling that even being in this place was agony.

"Mm……?"

However, without warning, the unearthly presence began to converge, heralding a new development.

"——It's coming."

The unearthly presence that had been spread throughout the mansion, directed its focus to one point in the living room. Kazuma moved casually, putting Sakamoto and Shinji in between himself and that presence.

"What's that? What just……"

The unearthly presence had solidified into something black. Shinji, over 10 seconds slower than Kazuma, had finally noticed it as well.

"Mmmm, so it came out?"

"Wh-what? What's wrong?"

Hesitatingly breaking the suddenly tense atmosphere, Sakamoto shouted in a shrill voice.

Kazuma answered in place of Shinji, who was already beginning to focus his mind for the use of jutsu.

"It's work time. The 'evil spirit' or whatever you've been struggling with just came out."

While giving that offhand explanation, Kazuma felt a beyond-ordinary sense of unease.

(That's no evil spirit. What kind of thing is it?)

When Kazuma had first accepted the assignment, the person at the agency had said "Just a normal evil spirit exorcism."

—— Hey, your first job should be one of these, right? If you're as good as the rumors say, you should be able to take that evil spirit with one hand ——

A superficial seeming man, but with definite achievements, he had heard. Their kind of work was, in some sense, even more than for practitioners, something where confidence was life. Making a mistake this big was extremely unlikely. It wasn't an easy business, that that kind of irresponsible agency person could survive.

(Was I set up? Well, fine. Should I just observe his skill?)

Kazuma learned against the wall, crossed his arms, and looked about as if sightseeing.

Preparing himself for the appearance of the "evil spirit," Shinji was focusing his mind.

It seemed he was planning to burn it away as soon as it appeared. It was clear to see in his expression.

Suddenly, the space in front of Shinji turned dark and thick. Shinji faced both his palms towards each other, in order to set up a transparent ball in front of his chest. A small fire was held between those palms.

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooon……

A voice full of resentment shook the air as the evil spirit showed itself. A melted-away face projected an infinite hatred to all living beings.


"Eeep!"

"HAAAA!!"

Paying no attention to the screaming Sakamoto, Shinji released a devastating flame, along with a sharp yell. The evil spirit became cleansed due to the fire; it had disappeared without a trace —— or so Shinji believed.

However——

"Idiot"

Gioooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo……

While the evil spirit's cries of agony echoed and Shinji was snickering —

Flame exploded.

"Gahhhhhhhhhh!?"

Shinji screamed, wrapped in flame. The uselessly large living room, in a moment, became a sea of flame.

Kakakakakakakakakakakakakakakaka

Shinji's flame had been eclipsed by the evil spirit. The flame had been completely devoured. The youma began to laugh sneeringly.

=== 2 ===

The Kannagi family is, even among the "Enjutsu users" who can freely manipulate fire, the strongest and most famous family. It is not simply just because their power is great. There is a special ability in the family's blood; the reason surely lies there. The flame that they manipulate is not through the physical phenomenon of the simple acceleration of molecular motion. It possesses the power to burn away impurities and destroy evil.

Because of this "purifying flame," the Kannagi family practitioners hold absolute dominance over youma, evil spirits, and all beings that transgress the law. Even with the ability given by blood, to the extent that blood is diluted, it is inevitable that that power will deteriorate.

Already, the branch family practitioners had long lost the highest rank of "gold". If a youma with fire attributes were the opponent, the released flame would even be likely to be absorbed.

For example, like just now —— the living room had been turned into purgatory. The high-class furniture and the shag carpet were already carbonizing. The glass from the chandelier on the ceiling had melted, turning into some grotesque art object.

"Wonder if he's dead?"

Kazuma muttered with a refreshed-looking face. A cool breeze wrapped around Kazuma; the raging flame wasn't even allowed to get close to him. Even the heat was sealed off; not a drop of sweat was apparent.

"H-help……"

A frail voice stimulated his eardrums. Kazuma looked down at the blackish object at his feet.

What had rolled screaming into the kekkai, was the former client, Sakamoto. He was burned here and there, but he didn't seem to be dead.

"Aaaaaa, he-help me!"

Sakamoto screamed while clinging onto Kazuma's legs. However Kazuma heartlessly kicked away his former client.

Thud!

Sakamoto's face began writhing in a new kind of pain, as it was mercilessly trampled upon. Since he didn't want to touch with anything beyond slippers, instead of stepping on him, he brought down his heel. It seemed like you could the skull making a creaking sound, but that wasn't a big problem.

Kazuma, trampled, grinding on Sakamoto's head, and clearly stated:

"You're not a client and I don't have the habit of saving middle-aged men."

"If it's money, I'll pay. Twice as much, or so……"

"Twice? Your life's worth only one million?

Kazuma took a cigarette from his pocket. He gently stretched out his hand, only exposing the cigarette's tip to the outside of the kekkai. He filled his lungs with tobacco smoke, and slowly let it out.

Sakamoto didn't have the leisure to be that relaxed. Whether on purpose, or by chance, only around Sakamoto, were there holes in the kekkai. The tongues of flame were beginning to lick him.

"Hot-, Ee-eeee, Help! I'll pay 10 million!"

"Thanks for your business."

Upon tossing away his cigarette, Kazuma changed suddenly, smiling brightly. The smile of a demon that had made a profitable deal.

"Alright now. Then, won't you please stand back?"

Kazuma kicked Sakamoto in the rear, sending him rolling, and as if it were obvious, proclaimed:

"You're in the way."

He began muttering in a staccato voice, and waved his right hand sideways in a mowing motion. As if being squeezed out by the hand, the raging fire was taken care of, expelled out the window.

The fire didn't spread to the grass and trees in the garden, but scattered and vanished.

And then, inside the room, a distorted face attached to a fireball — only the youma's true body remained.

Hyuuoou-

In place of the extinguished fire, wind raged around the room. Kazuma stood quietly. With his hand still in his jacket pocket, he did not move a finger. And yet, the wind followed Kazuma's intentions and erased the flame.

Already, the fight was over. In front of Kazuma's overwhelming power, the youma wasn't even able to put up any resistance as it was torn to pieces. All that was left to do was wait for its annihilation.

"And with this…"

Kazuma slowly raised his right hand. For someone with the power to see spirits, the density of spirits crowding that hand would have been terrifying.

"…the end!"

Ten times faster than it came up, the hand swung down. In a straight-line extension from the right hand, an invisible blade that cut even air molecules, cleaved the youma precisely in two.

Without sound, without any spirit fragments remaining, Kazuma regarded the destroyed youma with a calm look.

"Finished."

Kazuma pronounced to Sakamoto, who was still lying on the floor, dumbfounded.

"Pay the money in 3 days. Otherwise, would you like to regret having ever been born?"

They were completely like a criminal's words. Even if that was a mistake, it wasn't the way you'd speak to a customer.

However, Sakamoto, realizing the horror of going against Kazuma, did not complain.

"Y-yes. Understood. But something terrible has happened to Yuuki-kun. I never thought something so serious would happen."

Kazuma wordlessly came closer to what appeared to be the ashes of Shinji's remains and despairingly trampled on them. As expected, Sakamoto also raised his voice.

"Wh-what are you doing!? I don't know whatever happened between you two, but you still shouldn't desecrate a corpse, right!?"

"He's not dead."

Kazuma spat the words out dryly, and then continued to kick him again and again.

Upon doing so, the ash covering the surface began to fall off, and almost unscalded skin appeared.

"Wh-wha……?"

Sakamoto doubted his eyes, with this unbelievable scene. Kazuma gave an offhand explanation.

"All of Kannagi's people receive the divine protection of fire spirits. Even people from the branch family wouldn't die in this degree of fire."

Kazuma curled his lips in self-derision, and added,

"I'm the exception though."

"Uu……Guu……"

Upon doing that, Shinji woke up. Upon looking out around him, he confirmed that the youma had already been destroyed.

"You did this?"

"It's just like you saw."

Who do you think you are, saying whatever you please? —— Kazuma answered with that kind of tone. He had already seen through, that Shinji had kept his consciousness. Shinji hurriedly attempted an explanation.

"So you noticed……? But I couldn't help. I honestly couldn't move."

"I don't want to hear your excuses."

Kazuma coldly spoke that over his shoulder, as he turned his back. Shinji called out to the unhesitating figure leaving. There was still something that had to be said.

"Why did you return?"

"Must have been for something, I guess."

At that play-dumb answer, thinking he was being evaded, Shinji's gaze became sharp.

"'For something' …. Do you think the elders are going to understand that?"

"I was only disinherited, I wasn't deported. Where I am is my business."

"What are you planning?"

"Nothing in particular."

Kazuma answered curtly, shrugging his shoulders.

"Are you returning to the Kannagi?"

"Idiotic talk. Not even if I die."

He answered as if spitting out the words, and then Kazuma, this time, without hesitating, walked off.

Shinji was driven by an unease he couldn't stop. He continued to stare at Kazuma.

(I have to tell this to the suzerain as soon as possible……)

Shinji's unease was, in a sense, on the mark. A war to push the Kannagi into an abyss of ruin, was currently, from this moment, beginning.

===3===

"Do you know, it seems Kazuma has returned to Japan. What's more he became a fuujutsu practitioner."

"What, that incompetent has? It must be dead simple, then, to be a fuujutsu practitioner.

"Nope, 'I am a dark magician' is what I heard. For him to become a practitioner, he'd have to sell his soul to the devil, right?"

"Ah, that's probably true."

"Ahahahahahahahahahahahaha……"

That day, rumors of Kazuma were the talk of the Kannagi main house. Of the elders — the general term for one retired from active service and now overseeing the management of the practitioners — having heard Shinji's report, only one wasn't jokingly spreading around nonsense.

For the offense of the aforesaid Shinji's failure in his duty, he was currently under probation. Tail fin, dorsal fin, belly fins, all being wildly added to the rumor, until it grew to maturity, and not one person tried to stop it.

The source of the rumors, the elders, appeared to be in complete delight. The kind of people called elders, if you excepted the extremely serious exceptions, were basically men of leisure. "Looking important is work," and so on, was the gossip that some attacked with.

When there was no work, all day, they would drink tea, and amuse themselves by talking about various topics. Obviously, they could not resist something interesting to talk about.

Upon hearing Shinji's news, they were dancing for joy on the inside. The elders, when they passed the verdict of probation on the dejected Shinji, had even something of a skipping type of light gait, while they drank tea and turned back to each other. They haphazardly began talking like this:

"Ohh, did you know……?"

The elders were, during this work time, like different people, in energetic activity.

Within the hour, there was almost nobody in the huge mansion that had not heard of Kazuma's return to the country. It certainly reached the servants, and then all kinds of people heard about it.

It was, in short, a situation where almost nobody knew the true facts, but it wasn't a big problem for the elders, since "If it's interesting, who cares what happens later!" was the elders' basic attitude.

And so, news of Kazuma spread — the exact opposite direction that Shinji was hoping for,

To wit——

"Kazuma returned as a dark magician."

"Kazuma was secretly murdered; he's buried in the back garden."

"Kazuma clashed with Shinji during work and killed him suddenly."

"Kazuma made a contract with the wind spirits. An evil demon."

The truth was subtly mixed in, but having come this far, nobody could really interpret it. Obviously, no one feared Kazuma's retribution.

The main family's failure had left all his talent in his mother's womb, like liquid skimmed off the top, had somewhat found a preferable power to take in, it seemed. Nobody laughed at that.

However, there were a small number of exceptions. One of those was the current suzerain, Kannagi Juugo. During supper, in the humorous talk that was being told, there was one item that Juugo was interested in.

"Ohhhh? Kazuma chose fuujutsu? Did you know that, Genma?"

Juugo spoke to his cousin sitting next to him. For some reason, as if harboring some ill will, he smiled a hating smile.

"……Oh"

Genma answered in brief. The rumor having apparently already reached his ears, and he didn't appear disturbed.

However, it was clear that he wasn't happy about the rumor either. The saying "like someone chewing up a bitter bug" perfectly described his frown, as he gripped a tight fist.

If Kazuma was in front of me, I'd want to strangle him to death. It was that kind of face.

"It's shameful."

"It's not especially shameful."

Juugo answered lightly, and then gave a command to a servant.

"I would like to hear a detailed account. Call Shinji."

"Certainly."

Shinji went as far as scraping down to the tatami in his prostration. His tension was great, sweat floated on his forehead, and his breathing was disordered.

Regarding the Kannagi family, it would be fitting to say that the difference between the main family and the branch family's status was absolute. To even dream of a revolution was foolish.

Tradition, social status —— it wasn't a system based on that kind of abstract idea. The thing separating the two was only, only the overwhelming difference in power.

If all the practitioners of the branch family were to fight, if it was with someone like Juugo or Genma, they could be smashed by the wiggle of a little finger. Because of that kind of hopeless power difference, no thoughts of rebellion were harbored.

You could say it was understandable that Shinji would be under such tension. In front of Juugo, who had something similar to a god's absolute superiority, and having to recount his clumsy failure. This was definitely worse than his original feelings.

"Raise your face. You don't have to humble yourself like that."
　　
Juugo spoke in a friendly manner, but to look into the suzerain's face and speak, was far too overwhelming for Shinji. In the end, he raised his face, but his eyes still stared towards the tatami, as he submitted his report.

"A-and, I now have the privilege of being allowed to give this report."

"……I see."

When Shinji had finished recounting everything, Juugo said that, and was silent for a while.

"……I see."

As if to confirm, he repeated it one more time. He closed his eyes lightly, and reminisced back to when his nephew — to be accurate, the relation was more separated than that, but he used that label since it was too much trouble — had left 4 years ago.

(——What a poor child he was.)

If he had been born to any but the Kannagi family, he would have been considered a superior child, probably. Excellent intellect, good reflexes too, and he also showed great promise in learning the jutsu. Except for one; only if you excepted the ability to manipulate fire.

However, that was certainly, for the Kannagi family, the most necessary ability.

Someone with no talent for manipulating fire, no matter what else he was proficient at, was treated as an incompetent. As a result of that, Kazuma was no longer part of the Kannagi.

Yet —— Juugo thought.

(Why didn't you ask me for help, Kazuma? There was no need to disown you from the family. If it was me, I would have made a place for you. Whatever Genma said, I wouldn't have cared about the Enjutsu, I would have made use of your talent, yet despite that…..)

Juugo looked down upon his right leg. That right leg was a thing made of metal and plastic. If that accident hadn't happened, and the "rule of inheritance" hadn't been rushed, maybe Kazuma would be here right now?

However, it was far too late. Kazuma had thrown away the family, the family name, all that was Kannagi, and had left Japan. This was reality. "The past," a thing that could never be changed.

"……Suzerain?"

That uncertain sounding voice brought Juugo back to reality. Upon looking around, he found everyone in an uncomfortable silence. It wasn't surprising. Among these, there were almost none who had not tormented Kazuma.

However, the one who had driven Kazuma out was calm. That person —— Genma, spoke out, without a single change in his expression.

"Suzerain. Kazuma is already someone without any connection to the Kannagi. There is no need to worry about him."

"Genma, you would, of your own son ——"

"I have only one son, Ren."

Genma spoke coolly, interrupting the suzerain's words. Juugo tried to say something else in reply, but disliking unproductive battles, he put other, safer words into his mouth.

"It's fine then. After all, Kazuma has become successful with fuujutsu. Maybe it was best that he left the Kannagi. Or maybe, Hyoue, if he had been entrusted to your place, he would have become skilled and powerful?"

"Perhaps."

Sitting at a lower seat, the head of the Fuuga clan answered sullenly. 

At that, Genma again cut in with an objection.

"We are afraid, yet Fuujutsu and such, are after all, lower arts. The most they are capable of is acting as assistants to Enjutsu. Even supposing 4 years ago, we knew of Kazuma's talent for Fuujutsu, for us to leave him to people like the Fuuga clan, clearly, we would still have to disinherit him."

Hearing his art publicly insulted, Hyoue twisted his face in humiliation. However, nobody paid any attention to Hyoue, nor to his face.

For the Kannagi family, who only noticed the value of fighting power, the Fuuga clan, having been given the reconnaissance and battle support duties, were limited to a lower status. Genma's words were not reckless. They weren't anything beyond the normal beliefs of the other Kannagi.

"……We will go no further with this talk. Dinner will become unpleasant."

At Juugo's words, everyone showed clearly relieved expressions on their faces. As if on cue, cheerful talk began, and they rolled around laughing at silly jokes.

Though awkwardly, the usual dining hall atmosphere returned.

And so, nobody noticed the dark light harbored in Hyoue's eyes. He suppressed the expression on his face, and murmured in a voice so small that it did not reach even his own ears.

"I will not forget this disgrace, Genma……"

=== 4 ===

"Kannagi……no, Yagami Kazuma……? You came back at a very good time!"

"Huo-huo-huo……"

In a darkness-filled single room, without even one streak of light in it, a hoarse laugh broke into the strained silence.

"And……?"

"Yes, it's better if everyone hears this. Finally the time has come. The time when we must dispel the disgrace that has lasted 300 years. Now is the time for us to regain the power we lost and return to our previous glorious position."

"Ohhhhhhhhh…………"

A stifled commotion filled the air. No one shouted. Afraid of being discovered, they kept their breaths in check, keeping their tension locked in themselves.

"Oh, when you finally realize it, you Kannagi. We will overthrow you and leave not a single one remaining……Kukuku……"

A low and gloomy voice echoed with a resentment darker than darkness.

"U-uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! Wha-what, what are you doing-!"

That same day, late at night, Shinji screamed out. Nearby were two freshly severed heads, and two headless corpses tumbled down. And then, standing before him, a —— human?

Shinji wasn't able to say for certain. By outward appearance, there was nothing different from a human, but that unearthliness was something a person could not possibly have.

The two who had been living up until 30 seconds ago, had been captured in a kekkai without even any chance to prepare themselves, and had been immediately decapitated.

The mysterious person had not moved a single finger. And yet, Shinji had clearly witnessed two heads being sliced off with incredible force, as if it was nothing. Or rather, had been forced to witness.

Shinji was the only person left living, even though the other two surpassed him in skill. It wasn't because of luck. Shinji realized this more than anyone else.

He was being toyed with. This demon in human shape was feeding on Shinji's fear and hopelessness. For a moment, it held off killing him, playing with him lazily, enjoying his empty resistance.

"What the hell! What did I do……?"

''That thing'' gave no answers. Without even footsteps, it came near, taking its time.

''That thing'' was completely silent. Not even the hint of a sound, as it drew closer. wielding an invisible sword.

Even when those heads had been severed, silence. The two blood-covered heads rolling on the ground seemed not to have noticed their own deaths, still with drunken, relaxed, slack smiles.

Shinji knew of only one person who could do what ''that thing'' could do. He had just met him yesterday. In addition, that man had a motive to kill them.

Shinji became frantic, begging ''that thing'' for forgiveness. His voice did a complete about-face.

"Ka-Kazuma? You're Kazuma, right? Forgive me, it was my fault, I'm regretting it, so please, forgive meeee"

The only reply was the flash of the wind-blade. It severed his right arm at the base. The blade formed of a high density of spirits, cut through meat and bone as if it were tofu.

"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

While screaming, Shinji threw himself fully into starting Enjutsu. The intense concentration from being so close to death brought forth the greatest power of his 25 years of life.

''That thing'' was covered in golden flame. Destroying any and all demons, the highest level of purification. The flame burned through the darkness.

"Y-yeah! I think I——"

Suddenly, ''that thing'', now changed into a huge torch, began to move. Shinji's face, full of hope, froze.

''That thing'' stretched out a hand, easily taking hold of the golden flame, and in one movement, tore it from its body! 

''That thing'' had escaped from the flame's restraints, completely uninjured. To say nothing of its body, not even the clothes showed any sign of having been burned.

''That thing'' slowly turned to Shinji and began walking. Underneath the freezing moonlight, without a sound, it came closer, an ominous shadow.

This was in some ways, twisted. There was something there that the eye could not help being fascinated by. A scene filled with beauty that one had to admit was of the spirit world.

"Hee, heehee, heeheeeeheeheehee-, kyahahahaha, ahahahaha!"

Suddenly, Shinji began laughing in a strange voice.

From an overload of fear, apparently his mental equilibrium had snapped. Even when the wind blade soundlessly sliced through his body, splitting it, without even showing a reaction, he tumbled over laughing.

Perhaps ''that thing'' had tired of Shinji's lack of response. As if throwing away an unwanted toy, it casually sliced off his head.

There was a dull thunk. The third head rolled on the ground.

Even having finished killing everyone alive, ''that thing'' was still dissatisfied. It persistently continued slicing up the bodies. Though it was only a few minutes, the three bodies had been turned into many small pieces. To not even speak of the parents being able to recognize them, they wouldn't even be able to tell what kind of flesh it was.

The raw stink of blood and meat drifted through the kekkai. ''That thing'' laughed cruelly, and as if melting into the air, vanished.

Afterwards, three severed heads remained. In contrast to the bodies, there was not one injury on those heads.

Somehow, the three heads had ended up in a straight line to the gate; each had a strange smile, as if to say to anyone coming through that gate,

"Welcome to a nightmare world."

Words that appeared to be delivered smilingly.

And so the tragedy began——

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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
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Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter1

2007-06-10T10:07:37Z

Kwok: no more indents

== Chapter One - The Disinherited Son Returns ==

=== 1 ===

"What bad taste……"

That was the first impression he had of the client. Incidentally, it should also be noted, that this is an impression that did not change in the slightest all the way to the end.

In this hilly high-class residential area, the mansion was sitting arrogantly on display. With a design that completely disregarded the harmony of its surroundings, there were plenty of reasons to doubt the owner's true character.

If one were to disregard the bad taste thus far, one might have to say it was rather magnificent. Climbing up Governor's Hill, about as close by as the famous Catholic girl's school, was the mansion. When he saw it, he was honestly, completely stunned.

(Did Turkish harems have this feel?)

Yagami Kazuma didn't seem to be joking when he thought that. "Don't paint the walls of a Japanese house in such wild colors!" he wanted to preach, while grabbing that person's collar. It was that kind of house.

This could probably be considered the place of origin of Japan's Westernization movement. The first gaslight was lit here; ice cream was put on sale here first. One would have expected it to be a stylish, refined town with a distinguished history.

(Considering that, this is probably some kind of breach of contract……)

He saw a decorated golden carp on the roof and let out a sigh. The image that was held dear in Yokohama, had crumbled away completely, with a clattering sound.

When he had accepted the job at the agency, he was given not only an address, but also a detailed map. It had been completely unnecessary, however. By asking the neighborhood residents, "What's the house with the poorest taste around here?" probably even a monkey could manage to find his way here.

A structure that was painful to the eyes —— he didn't want to call that a house —— that upon viewing, made Kazuma look up to the sky, begging. The sky was empty and blue.

"Hey, at least it's work……"

He muttered to convince himself.

However, this is the same Kazuma whose look probably couldn't by any means be called appropriate for work.

Jeans and sneakers, a checkered shirt and a black jacket. His youth, at 22 years old, and his relaxed facial expression made him seem, no matter how you looked at it, no different from a student from the nearby university.

He was completely blind to his own faults. While continuing his observations, he noticed something strange.

The darkness covering the mansion was thicker than he had been told. Because of this, maybe even an ordinary person with no spirit sight could sense darkness in the mansion's surroundings.

(Maybe I'll just go back……)

Nagged by a horribly bad premonition, Kazuma was halfway seriously thinking about that.

The darkness that covered the mansion —— it was something more unearthly than he had expected, but it wasn't so much that he couldn't deal with it. For this reason, this premonition was a bad omen. There was something else up.

Judging from his experiences up to now, it was a credible and important premonition. However, he couldn't just throw away work on that alone.

This was his first assignment in Japan. If he broke off the arrangement with only a "For some reason or another," he probably wouldn't be able to get jobs in the future.

With heavy steps, he made his way toward the mansion. He stopped once more, in front of a nonsensically huge gate.

While standing in front of the doorbell, Kazuma was still unsure. Danger signals were bombarding his instincts. He couldn't help wanting to run away. However ——

"Yagami-sama, I presume."

Without any warning, a voice came from the intercom, and completely disrupted Kazuma's thinking. He jumped back with a start, and stood guarded. The voice continued from before, without concern for this.

"You have been expected. Kindly enter through the auxiliary entrance on the side."

Click.

Simultaneous with those words, a small door to the ride side of the gate unlocked. Apparently he was supposed to just go in.

(Compared with that "You have been expected," that's some rude treatment…)

He was feeling uncomfortable, but he was dealing with a customer. As instructed, he entered through the side door.

Inside the fence was awash with a large number of security cameras and sensors. They must live a very shadowy life.

Upon walking into the entranceway, multiple cameras followed him. With anger almost to the point of wanting to kill whoever was putting him under this rude surveillance, Kazuma somehow repressed himself.

"Eeek……"

That's what he'd intended, but apparently it had shown on his face. The face of the maid, who had come to greet him, was filled with a fear akin to having come across a man-eating bear. Kazuma hurriedly smoothed over his expression.

"Welcome, please come this way."

She went from a horrible face, as if she were being picked up and eaten, to an overly bright smile.

It didn't seem possible for someone to change their expression that dramatically, forgetting their suspicions, but the maid smiled as if nothing had happened. A pro.

As the maid walked ahead, Kazuma observed her gratifyingly swaying bottom, while going to the living room to wait.

(It would have been better if I'd left……)

As soon as he was guided into the living room, Kazuma felt deep regret at his choice. There inside, was a thin little man, self-importantly lying back, legs outstretched —— the master of the mansion, and client, Sakamoto Nanigashi —— but he wasn't alone. There was one practitioner as well, a face he knew well.

That practitioner, upon recognizing Kazuma, showed fear on his face for a moment, and then immediately twisted his lips into a sneer, glaring at Kazuma with a face full of scorn.

"What, the other practitioner was you, Kazuma? You became a disinherited child of the Kannagi's because of your incompetence, and now you dare to call yourself a practitioner?"

Probably, those explanatory words were for Sakamoto to hear. Practitioner —— Kannagi. The youngest child of the branch family Yuuki, Shinji truly took great pleasure in abusing Kazuma.

Sakamoto showed the response Shinji had expected. His expression changed, and he approached Kazuma.

"So this is true, then? Isn't this different from what you said? You said you were a top class spiritual practitioner, so I hired you!"

Kazuma calmly —— while retreating the same distance as the other advanced —— answered.

"I don't know what the person at the agency said. If you're dissatisfied, perhaps I should leave?"

"Hmmph, that's right."

Sakamoto's eyes showed a faintly cunning light. Kazuma's, even at the best of times, scarce desire to work, quickly neared zero.

"Mmmm, how about this? Why don't you both try the exorcism, and only the successful one gets paid. Ahh, naturally I won't tell the loser to return the advance payment."

"Good idea, yeah."

They had been flippant words, but Shinji had immediately accepted them. And then, with the face of someone who has been completely made a fool of, he asked Kazuma.

"And what are you going to do?"

"I'm out."

Kazuma gave an immediate reply. In the scornful stares of the two, not even one muscle of an eyebrow moved.

"Hmmph, coward, sucking your finger. I'll show you a model example of Enjutsu."

"Model example, eh. Didn't you say that? Just like the youngest child of the branch family."

"Y-you!"

Having the one he looked down upon, in return look down upon him, Shinji was enraged. He completely forgot about being in front of a client, tightened a fist, and struck out.

It was a fist intent on crushing the skull, which Kazuma handled by opening his body to the left.

In the instant that Shinji's right thrust was dodged, he transferred the movement energy to his left leg, without stopping the rotation of his hips.

In reaction to the shift in center of gravity, his left leg flew up in a rotating kick from Kazuma's blind spot, aiming for his temple.

However, Kazuma, as if he had seen it, lightly bent his head back. The heel of Shinji's left leg passed by a few millimeters in front of his eyes.

Kazuma's movements were like the leaves of a tree swaying in the wind, without hesitation. Into the space the kicking foot had left, he entered, with complete spontaneity, and lightly swept Shinji's pivot leg. Shinji, his left leg still floating in the air, under the power of his own rotational power, violently slammed into the floor.

"Sh-shit!"

Shinji had just barely managed to do ukemi, and quickly got back up. Incorrigibly, he assumed a fighting posture.

"You — thinking you could beat me in Taijutsu? Even four years ago, you weren't a match for me. There's no way you could be an opponent for my current self."

"Sh-shut up!"

Kazuma showed not the least bit of triumph. He chided disinterestedly, as if facing a defiant child. Being looked down upon from such a securely elevated position, Shinji's reason made a sound and broke.

"Stop it right there, you two."

However, just then, a restraining voice spoke, and the two turned at the same time to the voice's owner. Sakamoto showed great satisfaction at having gotten their attention. Then, in a tone as if he were an extremely important person, he scolded them.

"I didn't call you here to have a fight. The furnishings in this room, no matter which one you look at, are each more expensive than what I'm paying you. Any kind of rough behavior would be troublesome, okay?"

Suddenly, around the vicinity of the money talk, there was a scumbag. The person in question was probably attempting to flaunt his assets, but for the ones made to listen, it was nothing but the stink of the nouveau riche pushed up their noses.

(Maybe I'll leave…… since I still get the advance payment.)

With the discomfort index continuing to rise, with no end in sight, Kazuma's desire to work had already dropped into minus territory. He couldn't help feeling that even being in this place was agony.

"Mm……?"

However, without warning, the unearthly presence began to converge, heralding a new development.

"——It's coming."

The unearthly presence that had been spread throughout the mansion, directed its focus to one point in the living room. Kazuma moved casually, putting Sakamoto and Shinji in between himself and that presence.

"What's that? What just……"

The unearthly presence had solidified into something black. Shinji, over 10 seconds slower than Kazuma, had finally noticed it as well.

"Mmmm, so it came out?"

"Wh-what? What's wrong?"

Hesitatingly breaking the suddenly tense atmosphere, Sakamoto shouted in a shrill voice.

Kazuma answered in place of Shinji, who was already beginning to focus his mind for the use of jutsu.

"It's work time. The 'evil spirit' or whatever you've been struggling with just came out."

While giving that offhand explanation, Kazuma felt a beyond-ordinary sense of unease.

(That's no evil spirit. What kind of thing is it?)

When Kazuma had first accepted the assignment, the person at the agency had said "Just a normal evil spirit exorcism."

—— Hey, your first job should be one of these, right? If you're as good as the rumors say, you should be able to take that evil spirit with one hand ——

A superficial seeming man, but with definite achievements, he had heard. Their kind of work was, in some sense, even more than for practitioners, something where confidence was life. Making a mistake this big was extremely unlikely. It wasn't an easy business, that that kind of irresponsible agency person could survive.

(Was I set up? Well, fine. Should I just observe his skill?)

Kazuma learned against the wall, crossed his arms, and looked about as if sightseeing.

Preparing himself for the appearance of the "evil spirit," Shinji was focusing his mind.

It seemed he was planning to burn it away as soon as it appeared. It was clear to see in his expression.

Suddenly, the space in front of Shinji turned dark and thick. Shinji faced both his palms towards each other, in order to set up a transparent ball in front of his chest. A small fire was held between those palms.

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooon……

A voice full of resentment shook the air as the evil spirit showed itself. A melted-away face projected an infinite hatred to all living beings.


"Eeep!"

"HAAAA!!"

Paying no attention to the screaming Sakamoto, Shinji released a devastating flame, along with a sharp yell. The evil spirit became cleansed due to the fire; it had disappeared without a trace —— or so Shinji believed.

However——

"Idiot"

Gioooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo……

While the evil spirit's cries of agony echoed and Shinji was snickering —

Flame exploded.

"Gahhhhhhhhhh!?"

Shinji screamed, wrapped in flame. The uselessly large living room, in a moment, became a sea of flame.

Kakakakakakakakakakakakakakakaka

Shinji's flame had been eclipsed by the evil spirit. The flame had been completely devoured. The youma began to laugh sneeringly.

=== 2 ===

The Kannagi family is, even among the "Enjutsu users" who can freely manipulate fire, the strongest and most famous family. It is not simply just because their power is great. There is a special ability in the family's blood; the reason surely lies there. The flame that they manipulate is not through the physical phenomenon of the simple acceleration of molecular motion. It possesses the power to burn away impurities and destroy evil.

Because of this "purifying flame," the Kannagi family practitioners hold absolute dominance over youma, evil spirits, and all beings that transgress the law. Even with the ability given by blood, to the extent that blood is diluted, it is inevitable that that power will deteriorate.

Already, the branch family practitioners had long lost the highest rank of "gold". If a youma with fire attributes were the opponent, the released flame would even be likely to be absorbed.

For example, like just now —— the living room had been turned into purgatory. The high-class furniture and the shag carpet were already carbonizing. The glass from the chandelier on the ceiling had melted, turning into some grotesque art object.

"Wonder if he's dead?"

Kazuma muttered with a refreshed-looking face. A cool breeze wrapped around Kazuma; the raging flame wasn't even allowed to get close to him. Even the heat was sealed off; not a drop of sweat was apparent.

"H-help……"

A frail voice stimulated his eardrums. Kazuma looked down at the blackish object at his feet.

What had rolled screaming into the kekkai, was the former client, Sakamoto. He was burned here and there, but he didn't seem to be dead.

"Aaaaaa, he-help me!"

Sakamoto screamed while clinging onto Kazuma's legs. However Kazuma heartlessly kicked away his former client.

Thud!

Sakamoto's face began writhing in a new kind of pain, as it was mercilessly trampled upon. Since he didn't want to touch with anything beyond slippers, instead of stepping on him, he brought down his heel. It seemed like you could the skull making a creaking sound, but that wasn't a big problem.

Kazuma, trampled, grinding on Sakamoto's head, and clearly stated:

"You're not a client and I don't have the habit of saving middle-aged men."

"If it's money, I'll pay. Twice as much, or so……"

"Twice? Your life's worth only one million?

Kazuma took a cigarette from his pocket. He gently stretched out his hand, only exposing the cigarette's tip to the outside of the kekkai. He filled his lungs with tobacco smoke, and slowly let it out.

Sakamoto didn't have the leisure to be that relaxed. Whether on purpose, or by chance, only around Sakamoto, were there holes in the kekkai. The tongues of flame were beginning to lick him.

"Hot-, Ee-eeee, Help! I'll pay 10 million!"

"Thanks for your business."

Upon tossing away his cigarette, Kazuma changed suddenly, smiling brightly. The smile of a demon that had made a profitable deal.

"Alright now. Then, won't you please stand back?"

Kazuma kicked Sakamoto in the rear, sending him rolling, and as if it were obvious, proclaimed:

"You're in the way."

He began muttering in a staccato voice, and waved his right hand sideways in a mowing motion. As if being squeezed out by the hand, the raging fire was taken care of, expelled out the window.

The fire didn't spread to the grass and trees in the garden, but scattered and vanished.

And then, inside the room, a distorted face attached to a fireball — only the youma's true body remained.

Hyuuoou-

In place of the extinguished fire, wind raged around the room. Kazuma stood quietly. With his hand still in his jacket pocket, he did not move a finger. And yet, the wind followed Kazuma's intentions and erased the flame.

Already, the fight was over. In front of Kazuma's overwhelming power, the youma wasn't even able to put up any resistance as it was torn to pieces. All that was left to do was wait for its annihilation.

"And with this…"

Kazuma slowly raised his right hand. For someone with the power to see spirits, the density of spirits crowding that hand would have been terrifying.

"…the end!"

Ten times faster than it came up, the hand swung down. In a straight-line extension from the right hand, an invisible blade that cut even air molecules, cleaved the youma precisely in two.

Without sound, without any spirit fragments remaining, Kazuma regarded the destroyed youma with a calm look.

"Finished."

Kazuma pronounced to Sakamoto, who was still lying on the floor, dumbfounded.

"Pay the money in 3 days. Otherwise, would you like to regret having ever been born?"

They were completely like a criminal's words. Even if that was a mistake, it wasn't the way you'd speak to a customer.

However, Sakamoto, realizing the horror of going against Kazuma, did not complain.

"Y-yes. Understood. But something terrible has happened to Yuuki-kun. I never thought something so serious would happen."

Kazuma wordlessly came closer to what appeared to be the ashes of Shinji's remains and despairingly trampled on them. As expected, Sakamoto also raised his voice.

"Wh-what are you doing!? I don't know whatever happened between you two, but you still shouldn't desecrate a corpse, right!?"

"He's not dead."

Kazuma spat the words out dryly, and then continued to kick him again and again.

Upon doing so, the ash covering the surface began to fall off, and almost unscalded skin appeared.

"Wh-wha……?"

Sakamoto doubted his eyes, with this unbelievable scene. Kazuma gave an offhand explanation.

"All of Kannagi's people receive the divine protection of fire spirits. Even people from the branch family wouldn't die in this degree of fire."

Kazuma curled his lips in self-derision, and added,

"I'm the exception though."

"Uu……Guu……"

Upon doing that, Shinji woke up. Upon looking out around him, he confirmed that the youma had already been destroyed.

"You did this?"

"It's just like you saw."

Who do you think you are, saying whatever you please? —— Kazuma answered with that kind of tone. He had already seen through, that Shinji had kept his consciousness. Shinji hurriedly attempted an explanation.

"So you noticed……? But I couldn't help. I honestly couldn't move."

"I don't want to hear your excuses."

Kazuma coldly spoke that over his shoulder, as he turned his back. Shinji called out to the unhesitating figure leaving. There was still something that had to be said.

"Why did you return?"

"Must have been for something, I guess."

At that play-dumb answer, thinking he was being evaded, Shinji's gaze became sharp.

"'For something' …. Do you think the elders are going to understand that?"

"I was only disinherited, I wasn't deported. Where I am is my business."

"What are you planning?"

"Nothing in particular."

Kazuma answered curtly, shrugging his shoulders.

"Are you returning to the Kannagi?"

"Idiotic talk. Not even if I die."

He answered as if spitting out the words, and then Kazuma, this time, without hesitating, walked off.

Shinji was driven by an unease he couldn't stop. He continued to stare at Kazuma.

(I have to tell this to the suzerain as soon as possible……)

Shinji's unease was, in a sense, on the mark. A war to push the Kannagi into an abyss of ruin, was currently, from this moment, beginning.

===3===

"Do you know, it seems Kazuma has returned to Japan. What's more he became a fuujutsu practitioner."

"What, that incompetent has? It must be dead simple, then, to be a fuujutsu practitioner.

"Nope, 'I am a dark magician' is what I heard. For him to become a practitioner, he'd have to sell his soul to the devil, right?"

"Ah, that's probably true."

"Ahahahahahahahahahahahaha……"

That day, rumors of Kazuma were the talk of the Kannagi main house. Of the elders — the general term for one retired from active service and now overseeing the management of the practitioners — having heard Shinji's report, only one wasn't jokingly spreading around nonsense.

For the offense of the aforesaid Shinji's failure in his duty, he was currently under probation. Tail fin, dorsal fin, belly fins, all being wildly added to the rumor, until it grew to maturity, and not one person tried to stop it.

The source of the rumors, the elders, appeared to be in complete delight. The kind of people called elders, if you excepted the extremely serious exceptions, were basically men of leisure. "Looking important is work," and so on, was the gossip that some attacked with.

When there was no work, all day, they would drink tea, and amuse themselves by talking about various topics. Obviously, they could not resist something interesting to talk about.

Upon hearing Shinji's news, they were dancing for joy on the inside. The elders, when they passed the verdict of probation on the dejected Shinji, had even something of a skipping type of light gait, while they drank tea and turned back to each other. They haphazardly began talking like this:

"Ohh, did you know……?"

The elders were, during this work time, like different people, in energetic activity.

Within the hour, there was almost nobody in the huge mansion that had not heard of Kazuma's return to the country. It certainly reached the servants, and then all kinds of people heard about it.

It was, in short, a situation where almost nobody knew the true facts, but it wasn't a big problem for the elders, since "If it's interesting, who cares what happens later!" was the elders' basic attitude.

And so, news of Kazuma spread — the exact opposite direction that Shinji was hoping for,

To wit——

"Kazuma returned as a dark magician."

"Kazuma was secretly murdered; he's buried in the back garden."

"Kazuma clashed with Shinji during work and killed him suddenly."

"Kazuma made a contract with the wind spirits. An evil demon."

The truth was subtly mixed in, but having come this far, nobody could really interpret it. Obviously, no one feared Kazuma's retribution.

The main family's failure had left all his talent in his mother's womb, like liquid skimmed off the top, had somewhat found a preferable power to take in, it seemed. Nobody laughed at that.

However, there were a small number of exceptions. One of those was the current suzerain, Kannagi Juugo. During supper, in the humorous talk that was being told, there was one item that Juugo was interested in.

"Ohhhh? Kazuma chose fuujutsu? Did you know that, Genma?"

Juugo spoke to his cousin sitting next to him. For some reason, as if harboring some ill will, he smiled a hating smile.

"……Oh"

Genma answered in brief. The rumor having apparently already reached his ears, and he didn't appear disturbed.

However, it was clear that he wasn't happy about the rumor either. The saying "like someone chewing up a bitter bug" perfectly described his frown, as he gripped a tight fist.

If Kazuma was in front of me, I'd want to strangle him to death. It was that kind of face.

"It's shameful."

"It's not especially shameful."

Juugo answered lightly, and then gave a command to a servant.

"I would like to hear a detailed account. Call Shinji."

"Certainly."

Shinji went as far as scraping down to the tatami in his prostration. His tension was great, sweat floated on his forehead, and his breathing was disordered.

Regarding the Kannagi family, it would be fitting to say that the difference between the main family and the branch family's status was absolute. To even dream of a revolution was foolish.

Tradition, social status —— it wasn't a system based on that kind of abstract idea. The thing separating the two was only, only the overwhelming difference in power.

If all the practitioners of the branch family were to fight, if it was with someone like Juugo or Genma, they could be smashed by the wiggle of a little finger. Because of that kind of hopeless power difference, no thoughts of rebellion were harbored.

You could say it was understandable that Shinji would be under such tension. In front of Juugo, who had something similar to a god's absolute superiority, and having to recount his clumsy failure. This was definitely worse than his original feelings.

"Raise your face. You don't have to humble yourself like that."
　　
Juugo spoke in a friendly manner, but to look into the suzerain's face and speak, was far too overwhelming for Shinji. In the end, he raised his face, but his eyes still stared towards the tatami, as he submitted his report.

"A-and, I now have the privilege of being allowed to give this report."

"……I see."

When Shinji had finished recounting everything, Juugo said that, and was silent for a while.

"……I see."

As if to confirm, he repeated it one more time. He closed his eyes lightly, and reminisced back to when his nephew — to be accurate, the relation was more separated than that, but he used that label since it was too much trouble — had left 4 years ago.

(——What a poor child he was.)

If he had been born to any but the Kannagi family, he would have been considered a superior child, probably. Excellent intellect, good reflexes too, and he also showed great promise in learning the jutsu. Except for one; only if you excepted the ability to manipulate fire.

However, that was certainly, for the Kannagi family, the most necessary ability.

Someone with no talent for manipulating fire, no matter what else he was proficient at, was treated as an incompetent. As a result of that, Kazuma was no longer part of the Kannagi.

Yet —— Juugo thought.

(Why didn't you ask me for help, Kazuma? There was no need to disown you from the family. If it was me, I would have made a place for you. Whatever Genma said, I wouldn't have cared about the Enjutsu, I would have made use of your talent, yet despite that…..)

Juugo looked down upon his right leg. That right leg was a thing made of metal and plastic. If that accident hadn't happened, and the "rule of inheritance" hadn't been rushed, maybe Kazuma would be here right now?

However, it was far too late. Kazuma had thrown away the family, the family name, all that was Kannagi, and had left Japan. This was reality. "The past," a thing that could never be changed.

"……Suzerain?"

That uncertain sounding voice brought Juugo back to reality. Upon looking around, he found everyone in an uncomfortable silence. It wasn't surprising. Among these, there were almost none who had not tormented Kazuma.

However, the one who had driven Kazuma out was calm. That person —— Genma, spoke out, without a single change in his expression.

"Suzerain. Kazuma is already someone without any connection to the Kannagi. There is no need to worry about him."

"Genma, you would, of your own son ——"

"I have only one son, Ren."

Genma spoke coolly, interrupting the suzerain's words. Juugo tried to say something else in reply, but disliking unproductive battles, he put other, safer words into his mouth.

"It's fine then. After all, Kazuma has become successful with fuujutsu. Maybe it was best that he left the Kannagi. Or maybe, Hyoue, if he had been entrusted to your place, he would have become skilled and powerful?"

"Perhaps."

Sitting at a lower seat, the head of the Fuuga clan answered sullenly. 

At that, Genma again cut in with an objection.

"We are afraid, yet Fuujutsu and such, are after all, lower arts. The most they are capable of is acting as assistants to Enjutsu. Even supposing 4 years ago, we knew of Kazuma's talent for Fuujutsu, for us to leave him to people like the Fuuga clan, clearly, we would still have to disinherit him."

Hearing his art publicly insulted, Hyoue twisted his face in humiliation. However, nobody paid any attention to Hyoue, nor to his face.

For the Kannagi family, who only noticed the value of fighting power, the Fuuga clan, having been given the reconnaissance and battle support duties, were limited to a lower status. Genma's words were not reckless. They weren't anything beyond the normal beliefs of the other Kannagi.

"……We will go no further with this talk. Dinner will become unpleasant."

At Juugo's words, everyone showed clearly relieved expressions on their faces. As if on cue, cheerful talk began, and they rolled around laughing at silly jokes.

Though awkwardly, the usual dining hall atmosphere returned.

And so, nobody noticed the dark light harbored in Hyoue's eyes. He suppressed the expression on his face, and murmured in a voice so small that it did not reach even his own ears.

"I will not forget this disgrace, Genma……"

=== 4 ===

　　"Kannagi……no, Yagami Kazuma……? You came back at a very good time!"

　　"Huo-huo-huo……"

　　In a darkness-filled single room, without even one streak of light in it, a hoarse laugh broke into the strained silence.

　　"And……?"

　　"Yes, it's better if everyone hears this. Finally the time has come. The time when we must dispel the disgrace that has lasted 300 years. Now is the time for us to regain the power we lost and return to our previous glorious position."

　　"Ohhhhhhhhh…………"

　　A stifled commotion filled the air. No one shouted. Afraid of being discovered, they kept their breaths in check, keeping their tension locked in themselves.

　　"Oh, when you finally realize it, you Kannagi. We will overthrow you and leave not a single one remaining……Kukuku……"

　　A low and gloomy voice echoed with a resentment darker than darkness.

　　"U-uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! Wha-what, what are you doing-!"

　　That same day, late at night, Shinji screamed out. Nearby were two freshly severed heads, and two headless corpses tumbled down. And then, standing before him, a —— human?

　　Shinji wasn't able to say for certain. By outward appearance, there was nothing different from a human, but that unearthliness was something a person could not possibly have.

　　The two who had been living up until 30 seconds ago, had been captured in a kekkai without even any chance to prepare themselves, and had been immediately decapitated.

　　The mysterious person had not moved a single finger. And yet, Shinji had clearly witnessed two heads being sliced off with incredible force, as if it was nothing. Or rather, had been forced to witness.

　　Shinji was the only person left living, even though the other two surpassed him in skill. It wasn't because of luck. Shinji realized this more than anyone else.

　　He was being toyed with. This demon in human shape was feeding on Shinji's fear and hopelessness. For a moment, it held off killing him, playing with him lazily, enjoying his empty resistance.

　　"What the hell! What did I do……?"

　　''That thing'' gave no answers. Without even footsteps, it came near, taking its time.

　　''That thing'' was completely silent. Not even the hint of a sound, as it drew closer. wielding an invisible sword.

　　Even when those heads had been severed, silence. The two blood-covered heads rolling on the ground seemed not to have noticed their own deaths, still with drunken, relaxed, slack smiles.

　　Shinji knew of only one person who could do what ''that thing'' could do. He had just met him yesterday. In addition, that man had a motive to kill them.

　　Shinji became frantic, begging ''that thing'' for forgiveness. His voice did a complete about-face.

　　"Ka-Kazuma? You're Kazuma, right? Forgive me, it was my fault, I'm regretting it, so please, forgive meeee"

　　The only reply was the flash of the wind-blade. It severed his right arm at the base. The blade formed of a high density of spirits, cut through meat and bone as if it were tofu.

　　"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

　　While screaming, Shinji threw himself fully into starting Enjutsu. The intense concentration from being so close to death brought forth the greatest power of his 25 years of life.

　　''That thing'' was covered in golden flame. Destroying any and all demons, the highest level of purification. The flame burned through the darkness.

　　"Y-yeah! I think I——"

　　Suddenly, ''that thing'', now changed into a huge torch, began to move. Shinji's face, full of hope, froze.

　　''That thing'' stretched out a hand, easily taking hold of the golden flame, and in one movement, tore it from its body! 

　　''That thing'' had escaped from the flame's restraints, completely uninjured. To say nothing of its body, not even the clothes showed any sign of having been burned.

　　''That thing'' slowly turned to Shinji and began walking. Underneath the freezing moonlight, without a sound, it came closer, an ominous shadow.

　　This was in some ways, twisted. There was something there that the eye could not help being fascinated by. A scene filled with beauty that one had to admit was of the spirit world.

　　"Hee, heehee, heeheeeeheeheehee-, kyahahahaha, ahahahaha!"

　　Suddenly, Shinji began laughing in a strange voice.

　　From an overload of fear, apparently his mental equilibrium had snapped. Even when the wind blade soundlessly sliced through his body, splitting it, without even showing a reaction, he tumbled over laughing.

　　Perhaps ''that thing'' had tired of Shinji's lack of response. As if throwing away an unwanted toy, it casually sliced off his head.

　　There was a dull thunk. The third head rolled on the ground.

　　Even having finished killing everyone alive, ''that thing'' was still dissatisfied. It persistently continued slicing up the bodies. Though it was only a few minutes, the three bodies had been turned into many small pieces. To not even speak of the parents being able to recognize them, they wouldn't even be able to tell what kind of flesh it was.

　　The raw stink of blood and meat drifted through the kekkai. ''That thing'' laughed cruelly, and as if melting into the air, vanished.

　　Afterwards, three severed heads remained. In contrast to the bodies, there was not one injury on those heads.

　　Somehow, the three heads had ended up in a straight line to the gate; each had a strange smile, as if to say to anyone coming through that gate,

　　"Welcome to a nightmare world."

　　Words that appeared to be delivered smilingly.

　　And so the tragedy began——

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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
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Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter1

2007-06-10T09:45:08Z

Kwok: No more indents

== Chapter One - The Disinherited Son Returns ==

=== 1 ===

"What bad taste……"

That was the first impression he had of the client. Incidentally, it should also be noted, that this is an impression that did not change in the slightest all the way to the end.

In this hilly high-class residential area, the mansion was sitting arrogantly on display. With a design that completely disregarded the harmony of its surroundings, there were plenty of reasons to doubt the owner's true character.

If one were to disregard the bad taste thus far, one might have to say it was rather magnificent. Climbing up Governor's Hill, about as close by as the famous Catholic girl's school, was the mansion. When he saw it, he was honestly, completely stunned.

(Did Turkish harems have this feel?)

Yagami Kazuma didn't seem to be joking when he thought that. "Don't paint the walls of a Japanese house in such wild colors!" he wanted to preach, while grabbing that person's collar. It was that kind of house.

This could probably be considered the place of origin of Japan's Westernization movement. The first gaslight was lit here; ice cream was put on sale here first. One would have expected it to be a stylish, refined town with a distinguished history.

(Considering that, this is probably some kind of breach of contract……)

He saw a decorated golden carp on the roof and let out a sigh. The image that was held dear in Yokohama, had crumbled away completely, with a clattering sound.

When he had accepted the job at the agency, he was given not only an address, but also a detailed map. It had been completely unnecessary, however. By asking the neighborhood residents, "What's the house with the poorest taste around here?" probably even a monkey could manage to find his way here.

A structure that was painful to the eyes —— he didn't want to call that a house —— that upon viewing, made Kazuma look up to the sky, begging. The sky was empty and blue.

"Hey, at least it's work……"

He muttered to convince himself.

However, this is the same Kazuma whose look probably couldn't by any means be called appropriate for work.

Jeans and sneakers, a checkered shirt and a black jacket. His youth, at 22 years old, and his relaxed facial expression made him seem, no matter how you looked at it, no different from a student from the nearby university.

He was completely blind to his own faults. While continuing his observations, he noticed something strange.

The darkness covering the mansion was thicker than he had been told. Because of this, maybe even an ordinary person with no spirit sight could sense darkness in the mansion's surroundings.

(Maybe I'll just go back……)

Nagged by a horribly bad premonition, Kazuma was halfway seriously thinking about that.

The darkness that covered the mansion —— it was something more unearthly than he had expected, but it wasn't so much that he couldn't deal with it. For this reason, this premonition was a bad omen. There was something else up.

Judging from his experiences up to now, it was a credible and important premonition. However, he couldn't just throw away work on that alone.

This was his first assignment in Japan. If he broke off the arrangement with only a "For some reason or another," he probably wouldn't be able to get jobs in the future.

With heavy steps, he made his way toward the mansion. He stopped once more, in front of a nonsensically huge gate.

While standing in front of the doorbell, Kazuma was still unsure. Danger signals were bombarding his instincts. He couldn't help wanting to run away. However ——

"Yagami-sama, I presume."

Without any warning, a voice came from the intercom, and completely disrupted Kazuma's thinking. He jumped back with a start, and stood guarded. The voice continued from before, without concern for this.

"You have been expected. Kindly enter through the auxiliary entrance on the side."

Click.

Simultaneous with those words, a small door to the ride side of the gate unlocked. Apparently he was supposed to just go in.

(Compared with that "You have been expected," that's some rude treatment…)

He was feeling uncomfortable, but he was dealing with a customer. As instructed, he entered through the side door.

Inside the fence was awash with a large number of security cameras and sensors. They must live a very shadowy life.

Upon walking into the entranceway, multiple cameras followed him. With anger almost to the point of wanting to kill whoever was putting him under this rude surveillance, Kazuma somehow repressed himself.

"Eeek……"

That's what he'd intended, but apparently it had shown on his face. The face of the maid, who had come to greet him, was filled with a fear akin to having come across a man-eating bear. Kazuma hurriedly smoothed over his expression.

"Welcome, please come this way."

She went from a horrible face, as if she were being picked up and eaten, to an overly bright smile.

It didn't seem possible for someone to change their expression that dramatically, forgetting their suspicions, but the maid smiled as if nothing had happened. A pro.

As the maid walked ahead, Kazuma observed her gratifyingly swaying bottom, while going to the living room to wait.

(It would have been better if I'd left……)

As soon as he was guided into the living room, Kazuma felt deep regret at his choice. There inside, was a thin little man, self-importantly lying back, legs outstretched —— the master of the mansion, and client, Sakamoto Nanigashi —— but he wasn't alone. There was one practitioner as well, a face he knew well.

That practitioner, upon recognizing Kazuma, showed fear on his face for a moment, and then immediately twisted his lips into a sneer, glaring at Kazuma with a face full of scorn.

"What, the other practitioner was you, Kazuma? You became a disinherited child of the Kannagi's because of your incompetence, and now you dare to call yourself a practitioner?"

Probably, those explanatory words were for Sakamoto to hear. Practitioner —— Kannagi. The youngest child of the branch family Yuuki, Shinji truly took great pleasure in abusing Kazuma.

Sakamoto showed the response Shinji had expected. His expression changed, and he approached Kazuma.

"So this is true, then? Isn't this different from what you said? You said you were a top class spiritual practitioner, so I hired you!"

Kazuma calmly —— while retreating the same distance as the other advanced —— answered.

"I don't know what the person at the agency said. If you're dissatisfied, perhaps I should leave?"

"Hmmph, that's right."

Sakamoto's eyes showed a faintly cunning light. Kazuma's, even at the best of times, scarce desire to work, quickly neared zero.

"Mmmm, how about this? Why don't you both try the exorcism, and only the successful one gets paid. Ahh, naturally I won't tell the loser to return the advance payment."

"Good idea, yeah."

They had been flippant words, but Shinji had immediately accepted them. And then, with the face of someone who has been completely made a fool of, he asked Kazuma.

"And what are you going to do?"

"I'm out."

Kazuma gave an immediate reply. In the scornful stares of the two, not even one muscle of an eyebrow moved.

"Hmmph, coward, sucking your finger. I'll show you a model example of Enjutsu."

"Model example, eh. Didn't you say that? Just like the youngest child of the branch family."

"Y-you!"

Having the one he looked down upon, in return look down upon him, Shinji was enraged. He completely forgot about being in front of a client, tightened a fist, and struck out.

It was a fist intent on crushing the skull, which Kazuma handled by opening his body to the left.

In the instant that Shinji's right thrust was dodged, he transferred the movement energy to his left leg, without stopping the rotation of his hips.

In reaction to the shift in center of gravity, his left leg flew up in a rotating kick from Kazuma's blind spot, aiming for his temple.

However, Kazuma, as if he had seen it, lightly bent his head back. The heel of Shinji's left leg passed by a few millimeters in front of his eyes.

Kazuma's movements were like the leaves of a tree swaying in the wind, without hesitation. Into the space the kicking foot had left, he entered, with complete spontaneity, and lightly swept Shinji's pivot leg. Shinji, his left leg still floating in the air, under the power of his own rotational power, violently slammed into the floor.

"Sh-shit!"

Shinji had just barely managed to do ukemi, and quickly got back up. Incorrigibly, he assumed a fighting posture.

"You — thinking you could beat me in Taijutsu? Even four years ago, you weren't a match for me. There's no way you could be an opponent for my current self."

"Sh-shut up!"

Kazuma showed not the least bit of triumph. He chided disinterestedly, as if facing a defiant child. Being looked down upon from such a securely elevated position, Shinji's reason made a sound and broke.

"Stop it right there, you two."

However, just then, a restraining voice spoke, and the two turned at the same time to the voice's owner. Sakamoto showed great satisfaction at having gotten their attention. Then, in a tone as if he were an extremely important person, he scolded them.

"I didn't call you here to have a fight. The furnishings in this room, no matter which one you look at, are each more expensive than what I'm paying you. Any kind of rough behavior would be troublesome, okay?"

Suddenly, around the vicinity of the money talk, there was a scumbag. The person in question was probably attempting to flaunt his assets, but for the ones made to listen, it was nothing but the stink of the nouveau riche pushed up their noses.

(Maybe I'll leave…… since I still get the advance payment.)

With the discomfort index continuing to rise, with no end in sight, Kazuma's desire to work had already dropped into minus territory. He couldn't help feeling that even being in this place was agony.

"Mm……?"

However, without warning, the unearthly presence began to converge, heralding a new development.

"——It's coming."

The unearthly presence that had been spread throughout the mansion, directed its focus to one point in the living room. Kazuma moved casually, putting Sakamoto and Shinji in between himself and that presence.

"What's that? What just……"

The unearthly presence had solidified into something black. Shinji, over 10 seconds slower than Kazuma, had finally noticed it as well.

"Mmmm, so it came out?"

"Wh-what? What's wrong?"

Hesitatingly breaking the suddenly tense atmosphere, Sakamoto shouted in a shrill voice.

Kazuma answered in place of Shinji, who was already beginning to focus his mind for the use of jutsu.

"It's work time. The 'evil spirit' or whatever you've been struggling with just came out."

While giving that offhand explanation, Kazuma felt a beyond-ordinary sense of unease.

(That's no evil spirit. What kind of thing is it?)

When Kazuma had first accepted the assignment, the person at the agency had said "Just a normal evil spirit exorcism."

—— Hey, your first job should be one of these, right? If you're as good as the rumors say, you should be able to take that evil spirit with one hand ——

A superficial seeming man, but with definite achievements, he had heard. Their kind of work was, in some sense, even more than for practitioners, something where confidence was life. Making a mistake this big was extremely unlikely. It wasn't an easy business, that that kind of irresponsible agency person could survive.

(Was I set up? Well, fine. Should I just observe his skill?)

Kazuma learned against the wall, crossed his arms, and looked about as if sightseeing.

Preparing himself for the appearance of the "evil spirit," Shinji was focusing his mind.

It seemed he was planning to burn it away as soon as it appeared. It was clear to see in his expression.

Suddenly, the space in front of Shinji turned dark and thick. Shinji faced both his palms towards each other, in order to set up a transparent ball in front of his chest. A small fire was held between those palms.

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooon……

A voice full of resentment shook the air as the evil spirit showed itself. A melted-away face projected an infinite hatred to all living beings.


"Eeep!"

"HAAAA!!"

Paying no attention to the screaming Sakamoto, Shinji released a devastating flame, along with a sharp yell. The evil spirit became cleansed due to the fire; it had disappeared without a trace —— or so Shinji believed.

However——

"Idiot"

Gioooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo……

While the evil spirit's cries of agony echoed and Shinji was snickering —

Flame exploded.

"Gahhhhhhhhhh!?"

Shinji screamed, wrapped in flame. The uselessly large living room, in a moment, became a sea of flame.

Kakakakakakakakakakakakakakakaka

Shinji's flame had been eclipsed by the evil spirit. The flame had been completely devoured. The youma began to laugh sneeringly.

=== 2 ===

The Kannagi family is, even among the "Enjutsu users" who can freely manipulate fire, the strongest and most famous family. It is not simply just because their power is great. There is a special ability in the family's blood; the reason surely lies there. The flame that they manipulate is not through the physical phenomenon of the simple acceleration of molecular motion. It possesses the power to burn away impurities and destroy evil.

Because of this "purifying flame," the Kannagi family practitioners hold absolute dominance over youma, evil spirits, and all beings that transgress the law. Even with the ability given by blood, to the extent that blood is diluted, it is inevitable that that power will deteriorate.

Already, the branch family practitioners had long lost the highest rank of "gold". If a youma with fire attributes were the opponent, the released flame would even be likely to be absorbed.

For example, like just now —— the living room had been turned into purgatory. The high-class furniture and the shag carpet were already carbonizing. The glass from the chandelier on the ceiling had melted, turning into some grotesque art object.

"Wonder if he's dead?"

Kazuma muttered with a refreshed-looking face. A cool breeze wrapped around Kazuma; the raging flame wasn't even allowed to get close to him. Even the heat was sealed off; not a drop of sweat was apparent.

"H-help……"

A frail voice stimulated his eardrums. Kazuma looked down at the blackish object at his feet.

What had rolled screaming into the kekkai, was the former client, Sakamoto. He was burned here and there, but he didn't seem to be dead.

"Aaaaaa, he-help me!"

Sakamoto screamed while clinging onto Kazuma's legs. However Kazuma heartlessly kicked away his former client.

Thud!

Sakamoto's face began writhing in a new kind of pain, as it was mercilessly trampled upon. Since he didn't want to touch with anything beyond slippers, instead of stepping on him, he brought down his heel. It seemed like you could the skull making a creaking sound, but that wasn't a big problem.

Kazuma, trampled, grinding on Sakamoto's head, and clearly stated:

"You're not a client and I don't have the habit of saving middle-aged men."

"If it's money, I'll pay. Twice as much, or so……"

"Twice? Your life's worth only one million?

Kazuma took a cigarette from his pocket. He gently stretched out his hand, only exposing the cigarette's tip to the outside of the kekkai. He filled his lungs with tobacco smoke, and slowly let it out.

Sakamoto didn't have the leisure to be that relaxed. Whether on purpose, or by chance, only around Sakamoto, were there holes in the kekkai. The tongues of flame were beginning to lick him.

"Hot-, Ee-eeee, Help! I'll pay 10 million!"

"Thanks for your business."

Upon tossing away his cigarette, Kazuma changed suddenly, smiling brightly. The smile of a demon that had made a profitable deal.

"Alright now. Then, won't you please stand back?"

Kazuma kicked Sakamoto in the rear, sending him rolling, and as if it were obvious, proclaimed:

"You're in the way."

He began muttering in a staccato voice, and waved his right hand sideways in a mowing motion. As if being squeezed out by the hand, the raging fire was taken care of, expelled out the window.

The fire didn't spread to the grass and trees in the garden, but scattered and vanished.

And then, inside the room, a distorted face attached to a fireball — only the youma's true body remained.

Hyuuoou-

In place of the extinguished fire, wind raged around the room. Kazuma stood quietly. With his hand still in his jacket pocket, he did not move a finger. And yet, the wind followed Kazuma's intentions and erased the flame.

Already, the fight was over. In front of Kazuma's overwhelming power, the youma wasn't even able to put up any resistance as it was torn to pieces. All that was left to do was wait for its annihilation.

"And with this…"

Kazuma slowly raised his right hand. For someone with the power to see spirits, the density of spirits crowding that hand would have been terrifying.

"…the end!"

Ten times faster than it came up, the hand swung down. In a straight-line extension from the right hand, an invisible blade that cut even air molecules, cleaved the youma precisely in two.

Without sound, without any spirit fragments remaining, Kazuma regarded the destroyed youma with a calm look.

"Finished."

Kazuma pronounced to Sakamoto, who was still lying on the floor, dumbfounded.

"Pay the money in 3 days. Otherwise, would you like to regret having ever been born?"

They were completely like a criminal's words. Even if that was a mistake, it wasn't the way you'd speak to a customer.

However, Sakamoto, realizing the horror of going against Kazuma, did not complain.

"Y-yes. Understood. But something terrible has happened to Yuuki-kun. I never thought something so serious would happen."

Kazuma wordlessly came closer to what appeared to be the ashes of Shinji's remains and despairingly trampled on them. As expected, Sakamoto also raised his voice.

"Wh-what are you doing!? I don't know whatever happened between you two, but you still shouldn't desecrate a corpse, right!?"

"He's not dead."

Kazuma spat the words out dryly, and then continued to kick him again and again.

Upon doing so, the ash covering the surface began to fall off, and almost unscalded skin appeared.

"Wh-wha……?"

Sakamoto doubted his eyes, with this unbelievable scene. Kazuma gave an offhand explanation.

"All of Kannagi's people receive the divine protection of fire spirits. Even people from the branch family wouldn't die in this degree of fire."

Kazuma curled his lips in self-derision, and added,

"I'm the exception though."

"Uu……Guu……"

Upon doing that, Shinji woke up. Upon looking out around him, he confirmed that the youma had already been destroyed.

"You did this?"

"It's just like you saw."

Who do you think you are, saying whatever you please? —— Kazuma answered with that kind of tone. He had already seen through, that Shinji had kept his consciousness. Shinji hurriedly attempted an explanation.

"So you noticed……? But I couldn't help. I honestly couldn't move."

"I don't want to hear your excuses."

Kazuma coldly spoke that over his shoulder, as he turned his back. Shinji called out to the unhesitating figure leaving. There was still something that had to be said.

"Why did you return?"

"Must have been for something, I guess."

At that play-dumb answer, thinking he was being evaded, Shinji's gaze became sharp.

"'For something' …. Do you think the elders are going to understand that?"

"I was only disinherited, I wasn't deported. Where I am is my business."

"What are you planning?"

"Nothing in particular."

Kazuma answered curtly, shrugging his shoulders.

"Are you returning to the Kannagi?"

"Idiotic talk. Not even if I die."

He answered as if spitting out the words, and then Kazuma, this time, without hesitating, walked off.

Shinji was driven by an unease he couldn't stop. He continued to stare at Kazuma.

(I have to tell this to the suzerain as soon as possible……)

Shinji's unease was, in a sense, on the mark. A war to push the Kannagi into an abyss of ruin, was currently, from this moment, beginning.

===3===

　　"Did you hear it? It seems Kazuma has returned to Japan."

　　"What, that incompetent has? It must be dead simple to be a fuujutsu practitioner.

　　"Nope, 'I am a dark magician' is what I heard. For him to become a practitioner, he'd have to sell his soul to the devil, right?"

　　"Ah, that's probably true."

　　"Ahahahahaha……"

　　That day, rumors of Kazuma were the talk of the Kannagi main house. Of the elders — the general term for one retired from active service and now overseeing the management of the practitioners — having heard Shinji's report, only one wasn't jokingly spreading around nonsense.

　　For the offense of the aforesaid Shinji's failure in his duty, he was currently under probation. Tail fin, dorsal fin, belly fins, all being wildly added to the rumor, until it grew to maturity, and not one person tried to stop it.

　　The source of the rumors, the elders, appeared to be in complete delight. The kind of people called elders, if you excepted the extremely serious exceptions, were basically men of leisure. "Looking important is work," and so on, was the gossip that some attacked with.

　　When there was no work, all day, they would drink tea, and amuse themselves by talking about various topics. Obviously, they could not resist something interesting to talk about.

　　Upon hearing Shinji's news, they were dancing for joy on the inside. The elders, when they passed the verdict of probation on the dejected Shinji, had even something of a skipping type of light gait, while they drank tea and turned back to each other. They haphazardly began talking like this:

　　"Ohh, did you know……?"

　　The elders were, during this work time, like different people, in energetic activity.

　　Within the hour, there was almost nobody in the huge mansion that had not heard of Kazuma's return to the country. It certainly reached the servants, and then all kinds of people heard about it.

　　It was, in short, a situation where almost nobody knew the true facts, but it wasn't a big problem for the elders, since "If it's interesting, who cares what happens later!" was the elders' basic attitude.

　　And so, news of Kazuma spread — the exact opposite direction that Shinji was hoping for,

　　To wit——

　　"Kazuma returned as a dark magician."

　　"Kazuma was secretly murdered; he's buried in the back garden."

　　"Kazuma clashed with Shinji during work and killed him suddenly."

　　"Kazuma made a contract with the wind spirits. An evil demon."

　　The truth was subtly mixed in, but having come this far, nobody could really interpret it. Obviously, no one feared Kazuma's retribution.

　　The main family's failure had left all his talent in his mother's womb, like liquid skimmed off the top, had somewhat found a preferable power to take in, it seemed. Nobody laughed at that.

　　However, there were a small number of exceptions. One of those was the current suzerain, Kannagi Juugo. During supper, in the humorous talk that was being told, there was one item that Juugo was interested in.

　　"Ohhhh? Kazuma chose fuujutsu? Did you know that, Genma?"

　　Juugo spoke to his cousin sitting next to him. For some reason, as if harboring some ill will, he smiled a hating smile.

　　"……Oh"

　　Genma answered in brief. The rumor having apparently already reached his ears, and he didn't appear disturbed.

　　However, it was clear that he wasn't happy about the rumor either. The saying "like someone chewing up a bitter bug" perfectly described his frown, as he gripped a tight fist.

　　If Kazuma was in front of me, I'd want to strangle him to death. It was that kind of face.

　　"It's shameful."

　　"It's not especially shameful."

　　Juugo answered lightly, and then gave a command to a servant.

　　"I would like to hear a detailed account. Call Shinji."

　　"Certainly."

　　Shinji went as far as scraping down to the tatami in his prostration. His tension was great, sweat floated on his forehead, and his breathing was disordered.

　　Regarding the Kannagi family, it would be fitting to say that the difference between the main family and the branch family's status was absolute. To even dream of a revolution was foolish.

　　Tradition, social status —— it wasn't a system based on that kind of abstract idea. The thing separating the two was only, only the overwhelming difference in power.

　　If all the practitioners of the branch family were to fight, if it was with someone like Juugo or Genma, they could be smashed by the wiggle of a little finger. Because of that kind of hopeless power difference, no thoughts of rebellion were harbored.

　　You could say it was understandable that Shinji would be under such tension. In front of Juugo, who had something similar to a god's absolute superiority, and having to recount his clumsy failure. This was definitely worse than the original feeling.

　　"Raise your face. You don't have to humble yourself like that."
　　
　　Juugo spoke in a friendly manner, but to look into the suzerain's face and speak, was far too overwhelming for Shinji. In the end, he raised his face, but his eyes still stared towards the tatami, as he submitted his report.

　　"A-and, I now have the privilege of being allowed to give this report."

　　"……I see."

　　When Shinji had finished recounting everything, Juugo said that, and was silent for a while.

　　"……I see."

　　As if to confirm, he repeated it one more time. He closed his eyes lightly, and reminisced back to when his nephew — to be accurate, the relation was more separated than that, but he used that label since it was too much trouble — had left 4 years ago.

　　(——What a poor child he was.)

　　If he had been born to any but the Kannagi family, he would have been considered a superior child, probably. Excellent intellect, good reflexes too, and he also showed great promise in learning the jutsu. Except for one; only if you excepted the ability to manipulate fire.

　　However, that was certainly, for the Kannagi family, the most necessary ability.

　　Someone with no talent for manipulating fire, no matter what else he was proficient at, was treated as an incompetent. As a result of that, Kazuma was no longer part of the Kannagi.

　　Yet —— Juugo thought.

　　(Why didn't you ask me for help, Kazuma? There was no need to disown you from the family. If it was me, I would have made a place for you. Whatever Genma said, I wouldn't have cared about the Enjutsu, I would have made use of your talent, yet despite that…..)

　　Juugo looked down upon his right leg. That right leg was a thing made of metal and plastic. If that accident hadn't happened, and the "rule of inheritance" hadn't been rushed, maybe Kazuma would be here right now?

　　However, it was far too late. Kazuma had thrown away the family, the family name, all that was Kannagi, and had left Japan. This was reality. "The past," a thing that could never be changed.

　　"……Suzerain?"

　　That uncertain sounding voice brought Juugo back to reality. Upon looking around, he found everyone in an uncomfortable silence. It wasn't surprising. Among these, there were almost none who had not tormented Kazuma.

　　However, the one who had driven Kazuma out was calm. That person —— Genma, spoke out, without a single change in his expression.

　　"Suzerain. Kazuma is already someone without any connection to the Kannagi. There is no need to worry about him."

　　"Genma, you would, of your own son ——"

　　"I have only one son, Ren."

　　Genma spoke coolly, interrupting the suzerain's words. Juugo tried to say something else in reply, but disliking unproductive battles, he put other, safer words into his mouth.

　　"It's fine then. After all, Kazuma has become successful with fuujutsu. Maybe it was best that he left the Kannagi. Or maybe, Hyoue, if he had been entrusted to your place, he would have become skilled and powerful?"

　　"Perhaps."

　　Sitting at a lower seat, the head of the Fuuga clan answered sullenly. 

　　At that, Genma again cut in with an objection.

　　"We are afraid, yet Fuujutsu and such, are after all, lower arts. The most they are capable of is acting as assistants to Enjutsu. Even supposing 4 years ago, we knew of Kazuma's talent for Fuujutsu, for us to leave him to people like the Fuuga clan, clearly, we would still have to disinherit him."

　　Hearing his art publicly insulted, Hyoue twisted his face in humiliation. However, nobody paid any attention to Hyoue, nor to his face.

　　For the Kannagi family, who only noticed the value of fighting power, the Fuuga clan, having been given the reconnaissance and battle support duties, were limited to a lower status. Genma's words were not reckless. They weren't anything beyond the normal beliefs of the other Kannagi.

　　"……We will go no further with this talk. Dinner will become unpleasant."

　　At Juugo's words, everyone showed clearly relieved expressions on their faces. As if on cue, cheerful talk began, and they rolled around laughing at silly jokes.

　　Though awkwardly, the usual dining hall atmosphere returned.

　　And so, nobody noticed the dark light harbored in Hyoue's eyes. He repressed the expression on his face, and murmured in a voice so small that it did not reach even his own ears.

　　"I will not forget this disgrace, Genma……"

=== 4 ===

　　"Kannagi……no, Yagami Kazuma……? You came back at a very good time!"

　　"Huo-huo-huo……"

　　In a darkness-filled single room, without even one streak of light in it, a hoarse laugh broke into the strained silence.

　　"And……?"

　　"Yes, it's better if everyone hears this. Finally the time has come. The time when we must dispel the disgrace that has lasted 300 years. Now is the time for us to regain the power we lost and return to our previous glorious position."

　　"Ohhhhhhhhh…………"

　　A stifled commotion filled the air. No one shouted. Afraid of being discovered, they kept their breaths in check, keeping their tension locked in themselves.

　　"Oh, when you finally realize it, you Kannagi. We will overthrow you and leave not a single one remaining……Kukuku……"

　　A low and gloomy voice echoed with a resentment darker than darkness.

　　"U-uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! Wha-what, what are you doing-!"

　　That same day, late at night, Shinji screamed out. Nearby were two freshly severed heads, and two headless corpses tumbled down. And then, standing before him, a —— human?

　　Shinji wasn't able to say for certain. By outward appearance, there was nothing different from a human, but that unearthliness was something a person could not possibly have.

　　The two who had been living up until 30 seconds ago, had been captured in a kekkai without even any chance to prepare themselves, and had been immediately decapitated.

　　The mysterious person had not moved a single finger. And yet, Shinji had clearly witnessed two heads being sliced off with incredible force, as if it was nothing. Or rather, had been forced to witness.

　　Shinji was the only person left living, even though the other two surpassed him in skill. It wasn't because of luck. Shinji realized this more than anyone else.

　　He was being toyed with. This demon in human shape was feeding on Shinji's fear and hopelessness. For a moment, it held off killing him, playing with him lazily, enjoying his empty resistance.

　　"What the hell! What did I do……?"

　　''That thing'' gave no answers. Without even footsteps, it came near, taking its time.

　　''That thing'' was completely silent. Not even the hint of a sound, as it drew closer. wielding an invisible sword.

　　Even when those heads had been severed, silence. The two blood-covered heads rolling on the ground seemed not to have noticed their own deaths, still with drunken, relaxed, slack smiles.

　　Shinji knew of only one person who could do what ''that thing'' could do. He had just met him yesterday. In addition, that man had a motive to kill them.

　　Shinji became frantic, begging ''that thing'' for forgiveness. His voice did a complete about-face.

　　"Ka-Kazuma? You're Kazuma, right? Forgive me, it was my fault, I'm regretting it, so please, forgive meeee"

　　The only reply was the flash of the wind-blade. It severed his right arm at the base. The blade formed of a high density of spirits, cut through meat and bone as if it were tofu.

　　"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

　　While screaming, Shinji threw himself fully into starting Enjutsu. The intense concentration from being so close to death brought forth the greatest power of his 25 years of life.

　　''That thing'' was covered in golden flame. Destroying any and all demons, the highest level of purification. The flame burned through the darkness.

　　"Y-yeah! I think I——"

　　Suddenly, ''that thing'', now changed into a huge torch, began to move. Shinji's face, full of hope, froze.

　　''That thing'' stretched out a hand, easily taking hold of the golden flame, and in one movement, tore it from its body! 

　　''That thing'' had escaped from the flame's restraints, completely uninjured. To say nothing of its body, not even the clothes showed any sign of having been burned.

　　''That thing'' slowly turned to Shinji and began walking. Underneath the freezing moonlight, without a sound, it came closer, an ominous shadow.

　　This was in some ways, twisted. There was something there that the eye could not help being fascinated by. A scene filled with beauty that one had to admit was of the spirit world.

　　"Hee, heehee, heeheeeeheeheehee-, kyahahahaha, ahahahaha!"

　　Suddenly, Shinji began laughing in a strange voice.

　　From an overload of fear, apparently his mental equilibrium had snapped. Even when the wind blade soundlessly sliced through his body, splitting it, without even showing a reaction, he tumbled over laughing.

　　Perhaps ''that thing'' had tired of Shinji's lack of response. As if throwing away an unwanted toy, it casually sliced off his head.

　　There was a dull thunk. The third head rolled on the ground.

　　Even having finished killing everyone alive, ''that thing'' was still dissatisfied. It persistently continued slicing up the bodies. Though it was only a few minutes, the three bodies had been turned into many small pieces. To not even speak of the parents being able to recognize them, they wouldn't even be able to tell what kind of flesh it was.

　　The raw stink of blood and meat drifted through the kekkai. ''That thing'' laughed cruelly, and as if melting into the air, vanished.

　　Afterwards, three severed heads remained. In contrast to the bodies, there was not one injury on those heads.

　　Somehow, the three heads had ended up in a straight line to the gate; each had a strange smile, as if to say to anyone coming through that gate,

　　"Welcome to a nightmare world."

　　Words that appeared to be delivered smilingly.

　　And so the tragedy began——

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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
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Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter1

2007-06-10T09:17:32Z

Kwok: the indents are gone!

== Chapter One - The Disinherited Son Returns ==

=== 1 ===

"What bad taste……"

That was the first impression he had of the client. Incidentally, it should also be noted, that this is an impression that did not change in the slightest all the way to the end.

In this hilly high-class residential area, the mansion was sitting arrogantly on display. With a design that completely disregarded the harmony of its surroundings, there were plenty of reasons to doubt the owner's true character.

If one were to disregard the bad taste thus far, one might have to say it was rather magnificent. Climbing up Governor's Hill, about as close by as the famous Catholic girl's school, was the mansion. When he saw it, he was honestly, completely stunned.

(Did Turkish harems have this feel?)

Yagami Kazuma didn't seem to be joking when he thought that. "Don't paint the walls of a Japanese house in such wild colors!" he wanted to preach, while grabbing that person's collar. It was that kind of house.

This could probably be considered the place of origin of Japan's Westernization movement. The first gaslight was lit here; ice cream was put on sale here first. One would have expected it to be a stylish, refined town with a distinguished history.

(Considering that, this is probably some kind of breach of contract……)

He saw a decorated golden carp on the roof and let out a sigh. The image that was held dear in Yokohama, had crumbled away completely, with a clattering sound.

When he had accepted the job at the agency, he was given not only an address, but also a detailed map. It had been completely unnecessary, however. By asking the neighborhood residents, "What's the house with the poorest taste around here?" probably even a monkey could manage to find his way here.

A structure that was painful to the eyes —— he didn't want to call that a house —— that upon viewing, made Kazuma look up to the sky, begging. The sky was empty and blue.

"Hey, at least it's work……"

He muttered to convince himself.

However, this is the same Kazuma whose look probably couldn't by any means be called appropriate for work.

Jeans and sneakers, a checkered shirt and a black jacket. His youth, at 22 years old, and his relaxed facial expression made him seem, no matter how you looked at it, no different from a student from the nearby university.

He was completely blind to his own faults. While continuing his observations, he noticed something strange.

The darkness covering the mansion was thicker than he had been told. Because of this, maybe even an ordinary person with no spirit sight could sense darkness in the mansion's surroundings.

(Maybe I'll just go back……)

Nagged by a horribly bad premonition, Kazuma was halfway seriously thinking about that.

The darkness that covered the mansion —— it was something more unearthly than he had expected, but it wasn't so much that he couldn't deal with it. For this reason, this premonition was a bad omen. There was something else up.

Judging from his experiences up to now, it was a credible and important premonition. However, he couldn't just throw away work on that alone.

This was his first assignment in Japan. If he broke off the arrangement with only a "For some reason or another," he probably wouldn't be able to get jobs in the future.

With heavy steps, he made his way toward the mansion. He stopped once more, in front of a nonsensically huge gate.

While standing in front of the doorbell, Kazuma was still unsure. Danger signals were bombarding his instincts. He couldn't help wanting to run away. However ——

"Yagami-sama, I presume."

Without any warning, a voice came from the intercom, and completely disrupted Kazuma's thinking. He jumped back with a start, and stood guarded. The voice continued from before, without concern for this.

"You have been expected. Kindly enter through the auxiliary entrance on the side."

Click.

Simultaneous with those words, a small door to the ride side of the gate unlocked. Apparently he was supposed to just go in.

(Compared with that "You have been expected," that's some rude treatment…)

He was feeling uncomfortable, but he was dealing with a customer. As instructed, he entered through the side door.

Inside the fence was awash with a large number of security cameras and sensors. They must live a very shadowy life.

Upon walking into the entranceway, multiple cameras followed him. With anger almost to the point of wanting to kill whoever was putting him under this rude surveillance, Kazuma somehow repressed himself.

"Eeek……"

That's what he'd intended, but apparently it had shown on his face. The face of the maid, who had come to greet him, was filled with a fear akin to having come across a man-eating bear. Kazuma hurriedly smoothed over his expression.

"Welcome, please come this way."

She went from a horrible face, as if she were being picked up and eaten, to an overly bright smile.

It didn't seem possible for someone to change their expression that dramatically, forgetting their suspicions, but the maid smiled as if nothing had happened. A pro.

As the maid walked ahead, Kazuma observed her gratifyingly swaying bottom, while going to the living room to wait.

(It would have been better if I'd left……)

As soon as he was guided into the living room, Kazuma felt deep regret at his choice. There inside, was a thin little man, self-importantly lying back, legs outstretched —— the master of the mansion, and client, Sakamoto Nanigashi —— but he wasn't alone. There was one practitioner as well, a face he knew well.

That practitioner, upon recognizing Kazuma, showed fear on his face for a moment, and then immediately twisted his lips into a sneer, glaring at Kazuma with a face full of scorn.

"What, the other practitioner was you, Kazuma? You became a disinherited child of the Kannagi's because of your incompetence, and now you dare to call yourself a practitioner?"

Probably, those explanatory words were for Sakamoto to hear. Practitioner —— Kannagi. The youngest child of the branch family Yuuki, Shinji truly took great pleasure in abusing Kazuma.

Sakamoto showed the response Shinji had expected. His expression changed, and he approached Kazuma.

"So this is true, then? Isn't this different from what you said? You said you were a top class spiritual practitioner, so I hired you!"

Kazuma calmly —— while retreating the same distance as the other advanced —— answered.

"I don't know what the person at the agency said. If you're dissatisfied, perhaps I should leave?"

"Hmmph, that's right."

Sakamoto's eyes showed a faintly cunning light. Kazuma's, even at the best of times, scarce desire to work, quickly neared zero.

"Mmmm, how about this? Why don't you both try the exorcism, and only the successful one gets paid. Ahh, naturally I won't tell the loser to return the advance payment."

"Good idea, yeah."

They had been flippant words, but Shinji had immediately accepted them. And then, with the face of someone who has been completely made a fool of, he asked Kazuma.

"And what are you going to do?"

"I'm out."

Kazuma gave an immediate reply. In the scornful stares of the two, not even one muscle of an eyebrow moved.

"Hmmph, coward, sucking your finger. I'll show you a model example of Enjutsu."

"Model example, eh. Didn't you say that? Just like the youngest child of the branch family."

"Y-you!"

Having the one he looked down upon, in return look down upon him, Shinji was enraged. He completely forgot about being in front of a client, tightened a fist, and struck out.

It was a fist intent on crushing the skull, which Kazuma handled by opening his body to the left.

In the instant that Shinji's right thrust was dodged, he transferred the movement energy to his left leg, without stopping the rotation of his hips.

In reaction to the shift in center of gravity, his left leg flew up in a rotating kick from Kazuma's blind spot, aiming for his temple.

However, Kazuma, as if he had seen it, lightly bent his head back. The heel of Shinji's left leg passed by a few millimeters in front of his eyes.

Kazuma's movements were like the leaves of a tree swaying in the wind, without hesitation. Into the space the kicking foot had left, he entered, with complete spontaneity, and lightly swept Shinji's pivot leg. Shinji, his left leg still floating in the air, under the power of his own rotational power, violently slammed into the floor.

"Sh-shit!"

Shinji had just barely managed to do ukemi, and quickly got back up. Incorrigibly, he assumed a fighting posture.

"You — thinking you could beat me in Taijutsu? Even four years ago, you weren't a match for me. There's no way you could be an opponent for my current self."

"Sh-shut up!"

Kazuma showed not the least bit of triumph. He chided disinterestedly, as if facing a defiant child. Being looked down upon from such a securely elevated position, Shinji's reason made a sound and broke.

"Stop it right there, you two."

However, just then, a restraining voice spoke, and the two turned at the same time to the voice's owner. Sakamoto showed great satisfaction at having gotten their attention. Then, in a tone as if he were an extremely important person, he scolded them.

"I didn't call you here to have a fight. The furnishings in this room, no matter which one you look at, are each more expensive than what I'm paying you. Any kind of rough behavior would be troublesome, okay?"

Suddenly, around the vicinity of the money talk, there was a scumbag. The person in question was probably attempting to flaunt his assets, but for the ones made to listen, it was nothing but the stink of the nouveau riche pushed up their noses.

(Maybe I'll leave…… since I still get the advance payment.)

With the discomfort index continuing to rise, with no end in sight, Kazuma's desire to work had already dropped into minus territory. He couldn't help feeling that even being in this place was agony.

"Mm……?"

However, without warning, the unearthly presence began to converge, heralding a new development.

"——It's coming."

The unearthly presence that had been spread throughout the mansion, directed its focus to one point in the living room. Kazuma moved casually, putting Sakamoto and Shinji in between himself and that presence.

"What's that? What just……"

The unearthly presence had solidified into something black. Shinji, over 10 seconds slower than Kazuma, had finally noticed it as well.

"Mmmm, so it came out?"

"Wh-what? What's wrong?"

Hesitatingly breaking the suddenly tense atmosphere, Sakamoto shouted in a shrill voice.

Kazuma answered in place of Shinji, who was already beginning to focus his mind for the use of jutsu.

"It's work time. The 'evil spirit' or whatever you've been struggling with just came out."

While giving that offhand explanation, Kazuma felt a beyond-ordinary sense of unease.

(That's no evil spirit. What kind of thing is it?)

When Kazuma had first accepted the assignment, the person at the agency had said "Just a normal evil spirit exorcism."

—— Hey, your first job should be one of these, right? If you're as good as the rumors say, you should be able to take that evil spirit with one hand ——

A superficial seeming man, but with definite achievements, he had heard. Their kind of work was, in some sense, even more than for practitioners, something where confidence was life. Making a mistake this big was extremely unlikely. It wasn't an easy business, that that kind of irresponsible agency person could survive.

(Was I set up? Well, fine. Should I just observe his skill?)

Kazuma learned against the wall, crossed his arms, and looked about as if sightseeing.

Preparing himself for the appearance of the "evil spirit," Shinji was focusing his mind.

It seemed he was planning to burn it away as soon as it appeared. It was clear to see in his expression.

Suddenly, the space in front of Shinji turned dark and thick. Shinji faced both his palms towards each other, in order to set up a transparent ball in front of his chest. A small fire was held between those palms.

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooon……

A voice full of resentment shook the air as the evil spirit showed itself. A melted-away face projected an infinite hatred to all living beings.


"Eeep!"

"HAAAA!!"

Paying no attention to the screaming Sakamoto, Shinji released a devastating flame, along with a sharp yell. The evil spirit became cleansed due to the fire; it had disappeared without a trace —— or so Shinji believed.

However——

"Idiot"

Gioooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo……

While the evil spirit's cries of agony echoed and Shinji was snickering —

Flame exploded.

"Gahhhhhhhhhh!?"

Shinji screamed, wrapped in flame. The uselessly large living room, in a moment, became a sea of flame.

Kakakakakakakakakakakakakakakaka

Shinji's flame had been eclipsed by the evil spirit. The flame had been completely devoured. The youma began to laugh sneeringly.

=== 2 ===

　　The Kannagi family is, even among the "Enjutsu users" who can freely manipulate fire, the strongest and most famous family. It is not simply just because their power is great. There is a special ability in the family's blood; the reason surely lies there. The flame that they manipulate is not through the physical phenomenon of the simple acceleration of molecular motion. It possesses the power to burn away impurities and destroy evil.

　　Because of this "purifying flame," the Kannagi family practitioners hold absolute dominance over youma, evil spirits, and all beings that transgress the law. Even with the ability given by blood, to the extent that blood is diluted, it is inevitable that that power will deteriorate.

　　Already, the branch family practitioners had long lost the highest rank of "gold". If a youma with fire attributes were the opponent, the released flame would even be likely to be absorbed.

　　For example, like just now —— the living room had been turned into purgatory. The high-class furniture and the shag carpet were already carbonizing. The glass from the chandelier on the ceiling had melted, turning into some grotesque art object.

　　"Wonder if he's dead?"

　　Kazuma muttered with a refreshed-looking face. A cool breeze wrapped around Kazuma; the raging flame wasn't even allowed to get close to him. Even the heat was sealed off; not a drop of sweat was apparent.

　　"H-help……"

　　A frail voice stimulated his eardrums. Kazuma looked down at the blackish object at his feet.

　　What had rolled screaming into the kekkai, was the former client, Sakamoto. He was burned here and there, but he didn't seem to be dead.

　　"Aaaaaa, he-help me!"

　　Sakamoto screamed while clinging onto Kazuma's legs. However Kazuma heartlessly kicked away his former client.

　　Thud!

　　Sakamoto's face began writhing in a new kind of pain, as it was mercilessly trampled upon. Since he didn't want to touch with anything beyond slippers, instead of stepping on him, he brought down his heel. It seemed like you could the skull making a creaking sound, but that wasn't a big problem.

　　Kazuma, trampled, grinding on Sakamoto's head, and clearly stated:

　　"You're not a client and I don't have the habit of saving middle-aged men."

　　"If it's money, I'll pay. Twice as much, or so……"

　　"Twice? Your life's worth only one million?

　　Kazuma took a cigarette from his pocket. He gently stretched out his hand, only exposing the cigarette's tip to the outside of the kekkai. He filled his lungs with tobacco smoke, and slowly let it out.

　　Sakamoto didn't have the leisure to be that relaxed. Whether on purpose, or by chance, only around Sakamoto, were there holes in the kekkai. The tongues of flame were beginning to lick him.

　　"Hot-, Ee-eeee, Help! I'll pay 10 million!"

　　"Thanks for your business."

　　Upon tossing away his cigarette, Kazuma changed suddenly, smiling brightly. The smile of a demon that had made a profitable deal.

　　"Alright now. Then, won't you please stand back?"

　　Kazuma kicked Sakamoto in the rear, sending him rolling, and as if it were obvious, proclaimed:

　　"You're in the way."

　　He began muttering in a staccato voice, and waved his right hand sideways in a mowing motion. As if being squeezed out by the hand, the raging fire was taken care of, expelled out the window.

　　The fire didn't spread to the grass and trees in the garden, but scattered and vanished.

　　And then, inside the room, a distorted face attached to a fireball — only the youma's true body remained.

　　Hyuuoou-

　　In place of the extinguished fire, wind raged around the room. Kazuma stood quietly. With his hand still in his jacket pocket, he did not move a finger. And yet, the wind followed Kazuma's intentions and erased the flame.

　　Already, the fight was over. In front of Kazuma's overwhelming power, the youma wasn't even able to put up any resistance as it was torn to pieces. All that was left to do was wait for its annihilation.

　　"And with this…"

　　Kazuma slowly raised his right hand. For someone with soul sight, the density of spirits crowding that hand would have been terrifying.

　　"…the end!"

　　Ten times faster than it came up, the hand swung down. In a straight-line extension from the right hand, an invisible blade that cut even air molecules, cleaved the youma precisely in two.

　　Without sound, without any spirit fragments remaining, Kazuma regarded the destroyed youma with a calm look.

　　"Finished."

　　Kazuma pronounced to Sakamoto, who was still lying on the floor, dumbfounded.

　　"Pay the money in 3 days. Otherwise, would you like to regret having ever been born?"

　　They were completely like a criminal's words. Even if that was a mistake, it wasn't the way you'd speak to a customer.

　　However, Sakamoto, realizing the horror of going against Kazuma, did not complain.

　　"Y-yes. Understood. But something terrible has happened to Yuuki-kun. I never thought something so serious would happen."

　　Kazuma wordlessly came closer to what appeared to be the ashes of Shinji's remains and despairingly trampled on them. As expected, Sakamoto also raised his voice.

　　"Wh-what are you doing!? I don't know whatever happened between you two, but you still shouldn't desecrate a corpse, right!?"

　　"He's not dead."

　　Kazuma spat the words out dryly, and then continued to kick him again and again.

　　Upon doing so, the ash covering the surface began to fall off, and almost unscalded skin appeared.

　　"Wh-wha……?"

　　Sakamoto doubted his eyes, with this unbelievable scene. Kazuma gave an offhand explanation.

　　"All of Kannagi's people receive the divine protection of fire spirits. Even people from the branch family wouldn't die in this degree of fire."

　　Kazuma curled his lips in self-derision, and added,

　　"I'm the exception though."

　　"Uu……Guu……"

　　Upon doing that, Shinji woke up. Upon looking out around him, he confirmed that the youma had already been destroyed.

　　"You did this?"

　　"It's just like you saw."

　　Who do you think you are, saying whatever you please? —— Kazuma answered with that kind of tone. He had already seen through, that Shinji had kept his consciousness. Shinji hurriedly attempted an explanation.

　　"So you noticed……? But I couldn't help. I honestly couldn't move."

　　"I don't want to hear your excuses."

　　Kazuma coldly spoke that over his shoulder, as he turned his back. Shinji called out to the unhesitating figure leaving. There was still something that had to be said.

　　"Why did you return?"

　　"Must have been for something, I guess"

　　At that play-dumb answer, thinking he was being evaded, Shinji's gaze became sharp.

　　"'For something' …. Do you think the elders are going to understand that?"

　　"I was only disinherited, I wasn't deported. Where I am is my business."

　　"What are you planning?"

　　"Nothing in particular."

　　Kazuma answered curtly, shrugging his shoulders.

　　"Are you returning to the Kannagi?"

　　"Idiotic talk. Not even if I die."

　　He answered as if spitting out the words, and then Kazuma, this time, without hesitating, walked off.

　　Shinji was driven by an unease he couldn't stop. He continued to stare at Kazuma.

　　(I have to tell this to the suzerain as soon as possible……)

　　Shinji's unease was, in a sense, on the mark. A war to push the Kannagi into an abyss of ruin, was currently, from this moment, beginning.

===3===

　　"Did you hear it? It seems Kazuma has returned to Japan."

　　"What, that incompetent has? It must be dead simple to be a fuujutsu practitioner.

　　"Nope, 'I am a dark magician' is what I heard. For him to become a practitioner, he'd have to sell his soul to the devil, right?"

　　"Ah, that's probably true."

　　"Ahahahahaha……"

　　That day, rumors of Kazuma were the talk of the Kannagi main house. Of the elders — the general term for one retired from active service and now overseeing the management of the practitioners — having heard Shinji's report, only one wasn't jokingly spreading around nonsense.

　　For the offense of the aforesaid Shinji's failure in his duty, he was currently under probation. Tail fin, dorsal fin, belly fins, all being wildly added to the rumor, until it grew to maturity, and not one person tried to stop it.

　　The source of the rumors, the elders, appeared to be in complete delight. The kind of people called elders, if you excepted the extremely serious exceptions, were basically men of leisure. "Looking important is work," and so on, was the gossip that some attacked with.

　　When there was no work, all day, they would drink tea, and amuse themselves by talking about various topics. Obviously, they could not resist something interesting to talk about.

　　Upon hearing Shinji's news, they were dancing for joy on the inside. The elders, when they passed the verdict of probation on the dejected Shinji, had even something of a skipping type of light gait, while they drank tea and turned back to each other. They haphazardly began talking like this:

　　"Ohh, did you know……?"

　　The elders were, during this work time, like different people, in energetic activity.

　　Within the hour, there was almost nobody in the huge mansion that had not heard of Kazuma's return to the country. It certainly reached the servants, and then all kinds of people heard about it.

　　It was, in short, a situation where almost nobody knew the true facts, but it wasn't a big problem for the elders, since "If it's interesting, who cares what happens later!" was the elders' basic attitude.

　　And so, news of Kazuma spread — the exact opposite direction that Shinji was hoping for,

　　To wit——

　　"Kazuma returned as a dark magician."

　　"Kazuma was secretly murdered; he's buried in the back garden."

　　"Kazuma clashed with Shinji during work and killed him suddenly."

　　"Kazuma made a contract with the wind spirits. An evil demon."

　　The truth was subtly mixed in, but having come this far, nobody could really interpret it. Obviously, no one feared Kazuma's retribution.

　　The main family's failure had left all his talent in his mother's womb, like liquid skimmed off the top, had somewhat found a preferable power to take in, it seemed. Nobody laughed at that.

　　However, there were a small number of exceptions. One of those was the current suzerain, Kannagi Juugo. During supper, in the humorous talk that was being told, there was one item that Juugo was interested in.

　　"Ohhhh? Kazuma chose fuujutsu? Did you know that, Genma?"

　　Juugo spoke to his cousin sitting next to him. For some reason, as if harboring some ill will, he smiled a hating smile.

　　"……Oh"

　　Genma answered in brief. The rumor having apparently already reached his ears, and he didn't appear disturbed.

　　However, it was clear that he wasn't happy about the rumor either. The saying "like someone chewing up a bitter bug" perfectly described his frown, as he gripped a tight fist.

　　If Kazuma was in front of me, I'd want to strangle him to death. It was that kind of face.

　　"It's shameful."

　　"It's not especially shameful."

　　Juugo answered lightly, and then gave a command to a servant.

　　"I would like to hear a detailed account. Call Shinji."

　　"Certainly."

　　Shinji went as far as scraping down to the tatami in his prostration. His tension was great, sweat floated on his forehead, and his breathing was disordered.

　　Regarding the Kannagi family, it would be fitting to say that the difference between the main family and the branch family's status was absolute. To even dream of a revolution was foolish.

　　Tradition, social status —— it wasn't a system based on that kind of abstract idea. The thing separating the two was only, only the overwhelming difference in power.

　　If all the practitioners of the branch family were to fight, if it was with someone like Juugo or Genma, they could be smashed by the wiggle of a little finger. Because of that kind of hopeless power difference, no thoughts of rebellion were harbored.

　　You could say it was understandable that Shinji would be under such tension. In front of Juugo, who had something similar to a god's absolute superiority, and having to recount his clumsy failure. This was definitely worse than the original feeling.

　　"Raise your face. You don't have to humble yourself like that."
　　
　　Juugo spoke in a friendly manner, but to look into the suzerain's face and speak, was far too overwhelming for Shinji. In the end, he raised his face, but his eyes still stared towards the tatami, as he submitted his report.

　　"A-and, I now have the privilege of being allowed to give this report."

　　"……I see."

　　When Shinji had finished recounting everything, Juugo said that, and was silent for a while.

　　"……I see."

　　As if to confirm, he repeated it one more time. He closed his eyes lightly, and reminisced back to when his nephew — to be accurate, the relation was more separated than that, but he used that label since it was too much trouble — had left 4 years ago.

　　(——What a poor child he was.)

　　If he had been born to any but the Kannagi family, he would have been considered a superior child, probably. Excellent intellect, good reflexes too, and he also showed great promise in learning the jutsu. Except for one; only if you excepted the ability to manipulate fire.

　　However, that was certainly, for the Kannagi family, the most necessary ability.

　　Someone with no talent for manipulating fire, no matter what else he was proficient at, was treated as an incompetent. As a result of that, Kazuma was no longer part of the Kannagi.

　　Yet —— Juugo thought.

　　(Why didn't you ask me for help, Kazuma? There was no need to disown you from the family. If it was me, I would have made a place for you. Whatever Genma said, I wouldn't have cared about the Enjutsu, I would have made use of your talent, yet despite that…..)

　　Juugo looked down upon his right leg. That right leg was a thing made of metal and plastic. If that accident hadn't happened, and the "rule of inheritance" hadn't been rushed, maybe Kazuma would be here right now?

　　However, it was far too late. Kazuma had thrown away the family, the family name, all that was Kannagi, and had left Japan. This was reality. "The past," a thing that could never be changed.

　　"……Suzerain?"

　　That uncertain sounding voice brought Juugo back to reality. Upon looking around, he found everyone in an uncomfortable silence. It wasn't surprising. Among these, there were almost none who had not tormented Kazuma.

　　However, the one who had driven Kazuma out was calm. That person —— Genma, spoke out, without a single change in his expression.

　　"Suzerain. Kazuma is already someone without any connection to the Kannagi. There is no need to worry about him."

　　"Genma, you would, of your own son ——"

　　"I have only one son, Ren."

　　Genma spoke coolly, interrupting the suzerain's words. Juugo tried to say something else in reply, but disliking unproductive battles, he put other, safer words into his mouth.

　　"It's fine then. After all, Kazuma has become successful with fuujutsu. Maybe it was best that he left the Kannagi. Or maybe, Hyoue, if he had been entrusted to your place, he would have become skilled and powerful?"

　　"Perhaps."

　　Sitting at a lower seat, the head of the Fuuga clan answered sullenly. 

　　At that, Genma again cut in with an objection.

　　"We are afraid, yet Fuujutsu and such, are after all, lower arts. The most they are capable of is acting as assistants to Enjutsu. Even supposing 4 years ago, we knew of Kazuma's talent for Fuujutsu, for us to leave him to people like the Fuuga clan, clearly, we would still have to disinherit him."

　　Hearing his art publicly insulted, Hyoue twisted his face in humiliation. However, nobody paid any attention to Hyoue, nor to his face.

　　For the Kannagi family, who only noticed the value of fighting power, the Fuuga clan, having been given the reconnaissance and battle support duties, were limited to a lower status. Genma's words were not reckless. They weren't anything beyond the normal beliefs of the other Kannagi.

　　"……We will go no further with this talk. Dinner will become unpleasant."

　　At Juugo's words, everyone showed clearly relieved expressions on their faces. As if on cue, cheerful talk began, and they rolled around laughing at silly jokes.

　　Though awkwardly, the usual dining hall atmosphere returned.

　　And so, nobody noticed the dark light harbored in Hyoue's eyes. He repressed the expression on his face, and murmured in a voice so small that it did not reach even his own ears.

　　"I will not forget this disgrace, Genma……"

=== 4 ===

　　"Kannagi……no, Yagami Kazuma……? You came back at a very good time!"

　　"Huo-huo-huo……"

　　In a darkness-filled single room, without even one streak of light in it, a hoarse laugh broke into the strained silence.

　　"And……?"

　　"Yes, it's better if everyone hears this. Finally the time has come. The time when we must dispel the disgrace that has lasted 300 years. Now is the time for us to regain the power we lost and return to our previous glorious position."

　　"Ohhhhhhhhh…………"

　　A stifled commotion filled the air. No one shouted. Afraid of being discovered, they kept their breaths in check, keeping their tension locked in themselves.

　　"Oh, when you finally realize it, you Kannagi. We will overthrow you and leave not a single one remaining……Kukuku……"

　　A low and gloomy voice echoed with a resentment darker than darkness.

　　"U-uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! Wha-what, what are you doing-!"

　　That same day, late at night, Shinji screamed out. Nearby were two freshly severed heads, and two headless corpses tumbled down. And then, standing before him, a —— human?

　　Shinji wasn't able to say for certain. By outward appearance, there was nothing different from a human, but that unearthliness was something a person could not possibly have.

　　The two who had been living up until 30 seconds ago, had been captured in a kekkai without even any chance to prepare themselves, and had been immediately decapitated.

　　The mysterious person had not moved a single finger. And yet, Shinji had clearly witnessed two heads being sliced off with incredible force, as if it was nothing. Or rather, had been forced to witness.

　　Shinji was the only person left living, even though the other two surpassed him in skill. It wasn't because of luck. Shinji realized this more than anyone else.

　　He was being toyed with. This demon in human shape was feeding on Shinji's fear and hopelessness. For a moment, it held off killing him, playing with him lazily, enjoying his empty resistance.

　　"What the hell! What did I do……?"

　　''That thing'' gave no answers. Without even footsteps, it came near, taking its time.

　　''That thing'' was completely silent. Not even the hint of a sound, as it drew closer. wielding an invisible sword.

　　Even when those heads had been severed, silence. The two blood-covered heads rolling on the ground seemed not to have noticed their own deaths, still with drunken, relaxed, slack smiles.

　　Shinji knew of only one person who could do what ''that thing'' could do. He had just met him yesterday. In addition, that man had a motive to kill them.

　　Shinji became frantic, begging ''that thing'' for forgiveness. His voice did a complete about-face.

　　"Ka-Kazuma? You're Kazuma, right? Forgive me, it was my fault, I'm regretting it, so please, forgive meeee"

　　The only reply was the flash of the wind-blade. It severed his right arm at the base. The blade formed of a high density of spirits, cut through meat and bone as if it were tofu.

　　"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

　　While screaming, Shinji threw himself fully into starting Enjutsu. The intense concentration from being so close to death brought forth the greatest power of his 25 years of life.

　　''That thing'' was covered in golden flame. Destroying any and all demons, the highest level of purification. The flame burned through the darkness.

　　"Y-yeah! I think I——"

　　Suddenly, ''that thing'', now changed into a huge torch, began to move. Shinji's face, full of hope, froze.

　　''That thing'' stretched out a hand, easily taking hold of the golden flame, and in one movement, tore it from its body! 

　　''That thing'' had escaped from the flame's restraints, completely uninjured. To say nothing of its body, not even the clothes showed any sign of having been burned.

　　''That thing'' slowly turned to Shinji and began walking. Underneath the freezing moonlight, without a sound, it came closer, an ominous shadow.

　　This was in some ways, twisted. There was something there that the eye could not help being fascinated by. A scene filled with beauty that one had to admit was of the spirit world.

　　"Hee, heehee, heeheeeeheeheehee-, kyahahahaha, ahahahaha!"

　　Suddenly, Shinji began laughing in a strange voice.

　　From an overload of fear, apparently his mental equilibrium had snapped. Even when the wind blade soundlessly sliced through his body, splitting it, without even showing a reaction, he tumbled over laughing.

　　Perhaps ''that thing'' had tired of Shinji's lack of response. As if throwing away an unwanted toy, it casually sliced off his head.

　　There was a dull thunk. The third head rolled on the ground.

　　Even having finished killing everyone alive, ''that thing'' was still dissatisfied. It persistently continued slicing up the bodies. Though it was only a few minutes, the three bodies had been turned into many small pieces. To not even speak of the parents being able to recognize them, they wouldn't even be able to tell what kind of flesh it was.

　　The raw stink of blood and meat drifted through the kekkai. ''That thing'' laughed cruelly, and as if melting into the air, vanished.

　　Afterwards, three severed heads remained. In contrast to the bodies, there was not one injury on those heads.

　　Somehow, the three heads had ended up in a straight line to the gate; each had a strange smile, as if to say to anyone coming through that gate,

　　"Welcome to a nightmare world."

　　Words that appeared to be delivered smilingly.

　　And so the tragedy began——

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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
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Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter1

2007-06-10T09:08:28Z

Kwok: indents, or no indents?

== Chapter One - The Disinherited Son Returns ==

=== 1 ===

　　"What bad taste……"

　　That was the first impression he had of the client. Incidentally, it should also be noted, that this is an impression that did not change in the slightest all the way to the end.

　　In this hilly high-class residential area, the mansion was sitting arrogantly on display. With a design that completely disregarded the harmony of its surroundings, there were plenty of reasons to doubt the owner's true character.

　　If one were to disregard the bad taste thus far, one might have to say it was rather magnificent. Climbing up Governor's Hill, about as close by as the famous Catholic girl's school, was the mansion. When he saw it, he was honestly, completely stunned.

　　(Did Turkish harems have this feel?)

　　Yagami Kazuma didn't seem to be joking when he thought that. "Don't paint the walls of a Japanese house in such wild colors!" he wanted to preach, while grabbing that person's collar. It was that kind of house.

　　This could probably be considered the place of origin of Japan's Westernization movement. The first gaslight was lit here; ice cream was put on sale here first. One would have expected it to be a stylish, refined town with a distinguished history.

　　(Considering that, this is probably some kind of breach of contract……)

　　He saw a decorated golden carp on the roof and let out a sigh. The image that was held dear in Yokohama, had crumbled away completely, with a clattering sound.

　　When he had accepted the job at the agency, he was given not only an address, but also a detailed map. It had been completely unnecessary, however. By asking the neighborhood residents, "What's the house with the poorest taste around here?" probably even a monkey could manage to find his way here.

　　A structure that was painful to the eyes —— he didn't want to call that a house —— that upon viewing, made Kazuma look up to the sky, begging. The sky was empty and blue.

　　"Hey, at least it's work……"

　　He muttered to convince himself.

　　However, this is the same Kazuma whose look probably couldn't by any means be called appropriate for work.

　　Jeans and sneakers, a checkered shirt and a black jacket. His youth, at 22 years old, and his relaxed facial expression made him seem, no matter how you looked at it, no different from a student from the nearby university.

　　He was completely blind to his own faults. While continuing his observations, he noticed something strange.

　　The darkness covering the mansion was thicker than he had been told. Because of this, maybe even an ordinary person with no spirit sight could sense darkness in the mansion's surroundings.

　　(Maybe I'll just go back……)

　　Nagged by a horribly bad premonition, Kazuma was halfway seriously thinking about that.

　　The darkness that covered the mansion —— it was something more unearthly than he had expected, but it wasn't so much that he couldn't deal with it. For this reason, this premonition was a bad omen. There was something else up.

　　Judging from his experiences up to now, it was a credible and important premonition. However, he couldn't just throw away work on that alone.

　　This was his first assignment in Japan. If he broke off the arrangement with only a "For some reason or another," he probably wouldn't be able to get jobs in the future.

　　With heavy steps, he made his way toward the mansion. He stopped once more, in front of a nonsensically huge gate.

　　While standing in front of the doorbell, Kazuma was still unsure. Danger signals were bombarding his instincts. He couldn't help wanting to run away. However ——

　　"Yagami-sama, I presume."

　　Without any warning, a voice came from the intercom, and completely disrupted Kazuma's thinking. He jumped back with a start, and stood guarded. The voice continued from before, without concern for this.

　　"You have been expected. Kindly enter through the auxiliary entrance on the side."

　　Click.

　　Simultaneous with those words, a small door to the ride side of the gate unlocked. Apparently he was supposed to just go in.

　　(Compared with that "You have been expected," that's some rude treatment…)

　　He was feeling uncomfortable, but he was dealing with a customer. As instructed, he entered through the side door.

　　Inside the fence was awash with a large number of security cameras and sensors. They must live a very shadowy life.

　　Upon walking into the entranceway, multiple cameras followed him. With anger almost to the point of wanting to kill whoever was putting him under this rude surveillance, Kazuma somehow repressed himself.

　　"Eeek……"

　　That's what he'd intended, but apparently it had shown on his face. The face of the maid, who had come to greet him, was filled with a fear akin to having come across a man-eating bear. Kazuma hurriedly smoothed over his expression.

　　"Welcome, please come this way."

　　She went from a horrible face, as if she were being picked up and eaten, to an overly bright smile.

　　It didn't seem possible for someone to change their expression that dramatically, forgetting their suspicions, but the maid smiled as if nothing had happened. A pro.

　　As the maid walked ahead, Kazuma observed her gratifyingly swaying bottom, while going to the living room to wait.

　　(It would have been better if I'd left……)

　　As soon as he was guided into the living room, Kazuma felt deep regret at his choice. There inside, was a thin little man, self-importantly lying back, legs outstretched —— the master of the mansion, and client, Sakamoto Nanigashi —— but he wasn't alone. There was one practitioner as well, a face he knew well.

　　That practitioner, upon recognizing Kazuma, showed fear on his face for a moment, and then immediately twisted his lips into a sneer, glaring at Kazuma with a face full of scorn.

　　"What, the other practitioner was you, Kazuma? You became a disinherited child of the Kannagi's because of your incompetence, and now you dare to call yourself a practitioner?"

　　Probably, those explanatory words were for Sakamoto to hear. Practitioner —— Kannagi. The youngest child of the branch family Yuuki, Shinji truly took great pleasure in abusing Kazuma.

　　Sakamoto showed the response Shinji had expected. His expression changed, and he approached Kazuma.

　　"So this is true, then? Isn't this different from what you said? You said you were a top class spiritual practitioner, so I hired you!"

　　Kazuma calmly —— while retreating the same distance as the other advanced —— answered.

　　"I don't know what the person at the agency said. If you're dissatisfied, perhaps I should leave?"

　　"Hmmph, that's right."

　　Sakamoto's eyes showed a faintly cunning light. Kazuma's, even at the best of times, scarce desire to work, quickly neared zero.

　　"Mmmm, how about this? Why don't you both try the exorcism, and only the successful one gets paid. Ahh, naturally I won't tell the loser to return the advance payment."

　　"Good idea, yeah."

　　They had been flippant words, but Shinji had immediately accepted them. And then, with the face of someone who has been completely made a fool of, he asked Kazuma.

　　"And what are you going to do?"

　　"I'm out."

　　Kazuma gave an immediate reply. In the scornful stares of the two, not even one muscle of an eyebrow moved.

　　"Hmmph, coward, sucking your finger. I'll show you a model example of Enjutsu."

　　"Model example, eh. Didn't you say that? Just like the youngest child of the branch family."

　　"Y-you!"

　　Having the one he looked down upon, in return look down upon him, Shinji was enraged. He completely forgot about being in front of a client, tightened a fist, and struck out.

　　It was a fist intent on crushing the skull, which Kazuma handled by opening his body to the left.

　　In the instant that Shinji's right thrust was dodged, he transferred the movement energy to his left leg, without stopping the rotation of his hips.

　　In reaction to the shift in center of gravity, his left leg flew up in a rotating kick from Kazuma's blind spot, aiming for his temple.

　　However, Kazuma, as if he had seen it, lightly bent his head back. The heel of Shinji's left leg passed by a few millimeters in front of his eyes.

　　Kazuma's movements were like the leaves of a tree swaying in the wind, without hesitation. Into the space the kicking foot had left, he entered, with complete spontaneity, and lightly swept Shinji's pivot leg. Shinji, his left leg still floating in the air, under the power of his own rotational power, violently slammed into the floor.

　　"Sh-shit!"

　　Shinji had just barely managed to do ukemi, and quickly got back up. Incorrigibly, he assumed a fighting posture.

　　"You — thinking you could beat me in Taijutsu? Even four years ago, you weren't a match for me. There's no way you could be an opponent for my current self."

　　"Sh-shut up!"

　　Kazuma showed not the least bit of triumph. He chided disinterestedly, as if facing a defiant child. Being looked down upon from such a securely elevated position, Shinji's reason made a sound and broke.

　　"Stop it right there, you two."

　　However, just then, a restraining voice spoke, and the two turned at the same time to the voice's owner. Sakamoto showed great satisfaction at having gotten their attention. Then, in a tone as if he were an extremely important person, he scolded them.

　　"I didn't call you here to have a fight. The furnishings in this room, no matter which one you look at, are each more expensive than what I'm paying you. Any kind of rough behavior would be troublesome, okay?"

　　Suddenly, around the vicinity of the money talk, there was a scumbag. The person in question was probably attempting to flaunt his assets, but for the ones made to listen, it was nothing but the stink of the nouveau riche pushed up their noses.

　　(Maybe I'll leave…… since I still get the advance payment.)

　　With the discomfort index continuing to rise, with no end in sight, Kazuma's desire to work had already dropped into minus territory. He couldn't help feeling that even being in this place was agony.

　　"Mm……?"

　　However, without warning, the unearthly presence began to converge, heralding a new development.

　　"——It's coming."

　　The unearthly presence that had been spread throughout the mansion, directed its focus to one point in the living room. Kazuma moved casually, putting Sakamoto and Shinji in between himself and that presence.

　　"What's that? What just……"

　　The unearthly presence had solidified into something black. Shinji, over 10 seconds slower than Kazuma, had finally noticed it as well.

　　"Mmmm, so it came out?"

　　"Wh-what? What's wrong?"

　　Hesitatingly breaking the suddenly tense atmosphere, Sakamoto shouted in a shrill voice.

　　Kazuma answered in place of Shinji, who was already beginning to focus his mind for the use of jutsu.

　　"It's work time. The 'evil spirit' or whatever you've been struggling with just came out."

　　While giving that offhand explanation, Kazuma felt a beyond-ordinary sense of unease.

　　(That's no evil spirit. What kind of thing is it?)

　　When Kazuma had first accepted the assignment, the person at the agency had said "Just a normal evil spirit exorcism."

　　—— Hey, your first job should be one of these, right? If you're as good as the rumors say, you should be able to take that evil spirit with one hand ——

　　A superficial seeming man, but with definite achievements, he had heard. Their kind of work was, in some sense, even more than for practitioners, something where confidence was life. Making a mistake this big was extremely unlikely. It wasn't an easy business, that that kind of irresponsible agency person could survive.

　　(Was I set up? Well, fine. Should I just observe his skill?)

　　Kazuma learned against the wall, crossed his arms, and looked about as if sightseeing.

　　Preparing himself for the appearance of the "evil spirit," Shinji was focusing his mind.

　　It seemed he was planning to burn it away as soon as it appeared. It was clear to see in his expression.

　　Suddenly, the space in front of Shinji turned dark and thick. Shinji faced both his palms towards each other, in order to set up a transparent ball in front of his chest. A small fire was held between those palms.

　　Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooon……

　　A voice full of resentment shook the air as the evil spirit showed itself. A melted-away face projected an infinite hatred to all living beings.


　　"Eeep!"

　　"HAAAA!!"

　　Paying no attention to the screaming Sakamoto, Shinji released a devastating flame, along with a sharp yell. The evil spirit became cleansed due to the fire; it had disappeared without a trace —— or so Shinji believed.

　　However——

　　"Idiot"

　　Gioooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo……

　　While the evil spirit's cries of agony echoed and Shinji was snickering —

　　Flame exploded.

　　"Gahhhhhhhhhh!?"

　　Shinji screamed, wrapped in flame. The uselessly large living room, in a moment, became a sea of flame.

　　Kakakakakakakakakakakakakakakaka

　　Shinji's flame had been eclipsed by the evil spirit. The flame had been completely devoured. The youma began to laugh sneeringly.

=== 2 ===

　　The Kannagi family is, even among the "Enjutsu users" who can freely manipulate fire, the strongest and most famous family. It is not simply just because their power is great. There is a special ability in the family's blood; the reason surely lies there. The flame that they manipulate is not through the physical phenomenon of the simple acceleration of molecular motion. It possesses the power to burn away impurities and destroy evil.

　　Because of this "purifying flame," the Kannagi family practitioners hold absolute dominance over youma, evil spirits, and all beings that transgress the law. Even with the ability given by blood, to the extent that blood is diluted, it is inevitable that that power will deteriorate.

　　Already, the branch family practitioners had long lost the highest rank of "gold". If a youma with fire attributes were the opponent, the released flame would even be likely to be absorbed.

　　For example, like just now —— the living room had been turned into purgatory. The high-class furniture and the shag carpet were already carbonizing. The glass from the chandelier on the ceiling had melted, turning into some grotesque art object.

　　"Wonder if he's dead?"

　　Kazuma muttered with a refreshed-looking face. A cool breeze wrapped around Kazuma; the raging flame wasn't even allowed to get close to him. Even the heat was sealed off; not a drop of sweat was apparent.

　　"H-help……"

　　A frail voice stimulated his eardrums. Kazuma looked down at the blackish object at his feet.

　　What had rolled screaming into the kekkai, was the former client, Sakamoto. He was burned here and there, but he didn't seem to be dead.

　　"Aaaaaa, he-help me!"

　　Sakamoto screamed while clinging onto Kazuma's legs. However Kazuma heartlessly kicked away his former client.

　　Thud!

　　Sakamoto's face began writhing in a new kind of pain, as it was mercilessly trampled upon. Since he didn't want to touch with anything beyond slippers, instead of stepping on him, he brought down his heel. It seemed like you could the skull making a creaking sound, but that wasn't a big problem.

　　Kazuma, trampled, grinding on Sakamoto's head, and clearly stated:

　　"You're not a client and I don't have the habit of saving middle-aged men."

　　"If it's money, I'll pay. Twice as much, or so……"

　　"Twice? Your life's worth only one million?

　　Kazuma took a cigarette from his pocket. He gently stretched out his hand, only exposing the cigarette's tip to the outside of the kekkai. He filled his lungs with tobacco smoke, and slowly let it out.

　　Sakamoto didn't have the leisure to be that relaxed. Whether on purpose, or by chance, only around Sakamoto, were there holes in the kekkai. The tongues of flame were beginning to lick him.

　　"Hot-, Ee-eeee, Help! I'll pay 10 million!"

　　"Thanks for your business."

　　Upon tossing away his cigarette, Kazuma changed suddenly, smiling brightly. The smile of a demon that had made a profitable deal.

　　"Alright now. Then, won't you please stand back?"

　　Kazuma kicked Sakamoto in the rear, sending him rolling, and as if it were obvious, proclaimed:

　　"You're in the way."

　　He began muttering in a staccato voice, and waved his right hand sideways in a mowing motion. As if being squeezed out by the hand, the raging fire was taken care of, expelled out the window.

　　The fire didn't spread to the grass and trees in the garden, but scattered and vanished.

　　And then, inside the room, a distorted face attached to a fireball — only the youma's true body remained.

　　Hyuuoou-

　　In place of the extinguished fire, wind raged around the room. Kazuma stood quietly. With his hand still in his jacket pocket, he did not move a finger. And yet, the wind followed Kazuma's intentions and erased the flame.

　　Already, the fight was over. In front of Kazuma's overwhelming power, the youma wasn't even able to put up any resistance as it was torn to pieces. All that was left to do was wait for its annihilation.

　　"And with this…"

　　Kazuma slowly raised his right hand. For someone with soul sight, the density of spirits crowding that hand would have been terrifying.

　　"…the end!"

　　Ten times faster than it came up, the hand swung down. In a straight-line extension from the right hand, an invisible blade that cut even air molecules, cleaved the youma precisely in two.

　　Without sound, without any spirit fragments remaining, Kazuma regarded the destroyed youma with a calm look.

　　"Finished."

　　Kazuma pronounced to Sakamoto, who was still lying on the floor, dumbfounded.

　　"Pay the money in 3 days. Otherwise, would you like to regret having ever been born?"

　　They were completely like a criminal's words. Even if that was a mistake, it wasn't the way you'd speak to a customer.

　　However, Sakamoto, realizing the horror of going against Kazuma, did not complain.

　　"Y-yes. Understood. But something terrible has happened to Yuuki-kun. I never thought something so serious would happen."

　　Kazuma wordlessly came closer to what appeared to be the ashes of Shinji's remains and despairingly trampled on them. As expected, Sakamoto also raised his voice.

　　"Wh-what are you doing!? I don't know whatever happened between you two, but you still shouldn't desecrate a corpse, right!?"

　　"He's not dead."

　　Kazuma spat the words out dryly, and then continued to kick him again and again.

　　Upon doing so, the ash covering the surface began to fall off, and almost unscalded skin appeared.

　　"Wh-wha……?"

　　Sakamoto doubted his eyes, with this unbelievable scene. Kazuma gave an offhand explanation.

　　"All of Kannagi's people receive the divine protection of fire spirits. Even people from the branch family wouldn't die in this degree of fire."

　　Kazuma curled his lips in self-derision, and added,

　　"I'm the exception though."

　　"Uu……Guu……"

　　Upon doing that, Shinji woke up. Upon looking out around him, he confirmed that the youma had already been destroyed.

　　"You did this?"

　　"It's just like you saw."

　　Who do you think you are, saying whatever you please? —— Kazuma answered with that kind of tone. He had already seen through, that Shinji had kept his consciousness. Shinji hurriedly attempted an explanation.

　　"So you noticed……? But I couldn't help. I honestly couldn't move."

　　"I don't want to hear your excuses."

　　Kazuma coldly spoke that over his shoulder, as he turned his back. Shinji called out to the unhesitating figure leaving. There was still something that had to be said.

　　"Why did you return?"

　　"Must have been for something, I guess"

　　At that play-dumb answer, thinking he was being evaded, Shinji's gaze became sharp.

　　"'For something' …. Do you think the elders are going to understand that?"

　　"I was only disinherited, I wasn't deported. Where I am is my business."

　　"What are you planning?"

　　"Nothing in particular."

　　Kazuma answered curtly, shrugging his shoulders.

　　"Are you returning to the Kannagi?"

　　"Idiotic talk. Not even if I die."

　　He answered as if spitting out the words, and then Kazuma, this time, without hesitating, walked off.

　　Shinji was driven by an unease he couldn't stop. He continued to stare at Kazuma.

　　(I have to tell this to the suzerain as soon as possible……)

　　Shinji's unease was, in a sense, on the mark. A war to push the Kannagi into an abyss of ruin, was currently, from this moment, beginning.

===3===

　　"Did you hear it? It seems Kazuma has returned to Japan."

　　"What, that incompetent has? It must be dead simple to be a fuujutsu practitioner.

　　"Nope, 'I am a dark magician' is what I heard. For him to become a practitioner, he'd have to sell his soul to the devil, right?"

　　"Ah, that's probably true."

　　"Ahahahahaha……"

　　That day, rumors of Kazuma were the talk of the Kannagi main house. Of the elders — the general term for one retired from active service and now overseeing the management of the practitioners — having heard Shinji's report, only one wasn't jokingly spreading around nonsense.

　　For the offense of the aforesaid Shinji's failure in his duty, he was currently under probation. Tail fin, dorsal fin, belly fins, all being wildly added to the rumor, until it grew to maturity, and not one person tried to stop it.

　　The source of the rumors, the elders, appeared to be in complete delight. The kind of people called elders, if you excepted the extremely serious exceptions, were basically men of leisure. "Looking important is work," and so on, was the gossip that some attacked with.

　　When there was no work, all day, they would drink tea, and amuse themselves by talking about various topics. Obviously, they could not resist something interesting to talk about.

　　Upon hearing Shinji's news, they were dancing for joy on the inside. The elders, when they passed the verdict of probation on the dejected Shinji, had even something of a skipping type of light gait, while they drank tea and turned back to each other. They haphazardly began talking like this:

　　"Ohh, did you know……?"

　　The elders were, during this work time, like different people, in energetic activity.

　　Within the hour, there was almost nobody in the huge mansion that had not heard of Kazuma's return to the country. It certainly reached the servants, and then all kinds of people heard about it.

　　It was, in short, a situation where almost nobody knew the true facts, but it wasn't a big problem for the elders, since "If it's interesting, who cares what happens later!" was the elders' basic attitude.

　　And so, news of Kazuma spread — the exact opposite direction that Shinji was hoping for,

　　To wit——

　　"Kazuma returned as a dark magician."

　　"Kazuma was secretly murdered; he's buried in the back garden."

　　"Kazuma clashed with Shinji during work and killed him suddenly."

　　"Kazuma made a contract with the wind spirits. An evil demon."

　　The truth was subtly mixed in, but having come this far, nobody could really interpret it. Obviously, no one feared Kazuma's retribution.

　　The main family's failure had left all his talent in his mother's womb, like liquid skimmed off the top, had somewhat found a preferable power to take in, it seemed. Nobody laughed at that.

　　However, there were a small number of exceptions. One of those was the current suzerain, Kannagi Juugo. During supper, in the humorous talk that was being told, there was one item that Juugo was interested in.

　　"Ohhhh? Kazuma chose fuujutsu? Did you know that, Genma?"

　　Juugo spoke to his cousin sitting next to him. For some reason, as if harboring some ill will, he smiled a hating smile.

　　"……Oh"

　　Genma answered in brief. The rumor having apparently already reached his ears, and he didn't appear disturbed.

　　However, it was clear that he wasn't happy about the rumor either. The saying "like someone chewing up a bitter bug" perfectly described his frown, as he gripped a tight fist.

　　If Kazuma was in front of me, I'd want to strangle him to death. It was that kind of face.

　　"It's shameful."

　　"It's not especially shameful."

　　Juugo answered lightly, and then gave a command to a servant.

　　"I would like to hear a detailed account. Call Shinji."

　　"Certainly."

　　Shinji went as far as scraping down to the tatami in his prostration. His tension was great, sweat floated on his forehead, and his breathing was disordered.

　　Regarding the Kannagi family, it would be fitting to say that the difference between the main family and the branch family's status was absolute. To even dream of a revolution was foolish.

　　Tradition, social status —— it wasn't a system based on that kind of abstract idea. The thing separating the two was only, only the overwhelming difference in power.

　　If all the practitioners of the branch family were to fight, if it was with someone like Juugo or Genma, they could be smashed by the wiggle of a little finger. Because of that kind of hopeless power difference, no thoughts of rebellion were harbored.

　　You could say it was understandable that Shinji would be under such tension. In front of Juugo, who had something similar to a god's absolute superiority, and having to recount his clumsy failure. This was definitely worse than the original feeling.

　　"Raise your face. You don't have to humble yourself like that."
　　
　　Juugo spoke in a friendly manner, but to look into the suzerain's face and speak, was far too overwhelming for Shinji. In the end, he raised his face, but his eyes still stared towards the tatami, as he submitted his report.

　　"A-and, I now have the privilege of being allowed to give this report."

　　"……I see."

　　When Shinji had finished recounting everything, Juugo said that, and was silent for a while.

　　"……I see."

　　As if to confirm, he repeated it one more time. He closed his eyes lightly, and reminisced back to when his nephew — to be accurate, the relation was more separated than that, but he used that label since it was too much trouble — had left 4 years ago.

　　(——What a poor child he was.)

　　If he had been born to any but the Kannagi family, he would have been considered a superior child, probably. Excellent intellect, good reflexes too, and he also showed great promise in learning the jutsu. Except for one; only if you excepted the ability to manipulate fire.

　　However, that was certainly, for the Kannagi family, the most necessary ability.

　　Someone with no talent for manipulating fire, no matter what else he was proficient at, was treated as an incompetent. As a result of that, Kazuma was no longer part of the Kannagi.

　　Yet —— Juugo thought.

　　(Why didn't you ask me for help, Kazuma? There was no need to disown you from the family. If it was me, I would have made a place for you. Whatever Genma said, I wouldn't have cared about the Enjutsu, I would have made use of your talent, yet despite that…..)

　　Juugo looked down upon his right leg. That right leg was a thing made of metal and plastic. If that accident hadn't happened, and the "rule of inheritance" hadn't been rushed, maybe Kazuma would be here right now?

　　However, it was far too late. Kazuma had thrown away the family, the family name, all that was Kannagi, and had left Japan. This was reality. "The past," a thing that could never be changed.

　　"……Suzerain?"

　　That uncertain sounding voice brought Juugo back to reality. Upon looking around, he found everyone in an uncomfortable silence. It wasn't surprising. Among these, there were almost none who had not tormented Kazuma.

　　However, the one who had driven Kazuma out was calm. That person —— Genma, spoke out, without a single change in his expression.

　　"Suzerain. Kazuma is already someone without any connection to the Kannagi. There is no need to worry about him."

　　"Genma, you would, of your own son ——"

　　"I have only one son, Ren."

　　Genma spoke coolly, interrupting the suzerain's words. Juugo tried to say something else in reply, but disliking unproductive battles, he put other, safer words into his mouth.

　　"It's fine then. After all, Kazuma has become successful with fuujutsu. Maybe it was best that he left the Kannagi. Or maybe, Hyoue, if he had been entrusted to your place, he would have become skilled and powerful?"

　　"Perhaps."

　　Sitting at a lower seat, the head of the Fuuga clan answered sullenly. 

　　At that, Genma again cut in with an objection.

　　"We are afraid, yet Fuujutsu and such, are after all, lower arts. The most they are capable of is acting as assistants to Enjutsu. Even supposing 4 years ago, we knew of Kazuma's talent for Fuujutsu, for us to leave him to people like the Fuuga clan, clearly, we would still have to disinherit him."

　　Hearing his art publicly insulted, Hyoue twisted his face in humiliation. However, nobody paid any attention to Hyoue, nor to his face.

　　For the Kannagi family, who only noticed the value of fighting power, the Fuuga clan, having been given the reconnaissance and battle support duties, were limited to a lower status. Genma's words were not reckless. They weren't anything beyond the normal beliefs of the other Kannagi.

　　"……We will go no further with this talk. Dinner will become unpleasant."

　　At Juugo's words, everyone showed clearly relieved expressions on their faces. As if on cue, cheerful talk began, and they rolled around laughing at silly jokes.

　　Though awkwardly, the usual dining hall atmosphere returned.

　　And so, nobody noticed the dark light harbored in Hyoue's eyes. He repressed the expression on his face, and murmured in a voice so small that it did not reach even his own ears.

　　"I will not forget this disgrace, Genma……"

=== 4 ===

　　"Kannagi……no, Yagami Kazuma……? You came back at a very good time!"

　　"Huo-huo-huo……"

　　In a darkness-filled single room, without even one streak of light in it, a hoarse laugh broke into the strained silence.

　　"And……?"

　　"Yes, it's better if everyone hears this. Finally the time has come. The time when we must dispel the disgrace that has lasted 300 years. Now is the time for us to regain the power we lost and return to our previous glorious position."

　　"Ohhhhhhhhh…………"

　　A stifled commotion filled the air. No one shouted. Afraid of being discovered, they kept their breaths in check, keeping their tension locked in themselves.

　　"Oh, when you finally realize it, you Kannagi. We will overthrow you and leave not a single one remaining……Kukuku……"

　　A low and gloomy voice echoed with a resentment darker than darkness.

　　"U-uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! Wha-what, what are you doing-!"

　　That same day, late at night, Shinji screamed out. Nearby were two freshly severed heads, and two headless corpses tumbled down. And then, standing before him, a —— human?

　　Shinji wasn't able to say for certain. By outward appearance, there was nothing different from a human, but that unearthliness was something a person could not possibly have.

　　The two who had been living up until 30 seconds ago, had been captured in a kekkai without even any chance to prepare themselves, and had been immediately decapitated.

　　The mysterious person had not moved a single finger. And yet, Shinji had clearly witnessed two heads being sliced off with incredible force, as if it was nothing. Or rather, had been forced to witness.

　　Shinji was the only person left living, even though the other two surpassed him in skill. It wasn't because of luck. Shinji realized this more than anyone else.

　　He was being toyed with. This demon in human shape was feeding on Shinji's fear and hopelessness. For a moment, it held off killing him, playing with him lazily, enjoying his empty resistance.

　　"What the hell! What did I do……?"

　　''That thing'' gave no answers. Without even footsteps, it came near, taking its time.

　　''That thing'' was completely silent. Not even the hint of a sound, as it drew closer. wielding an invisible sword.

　　Even when those heads had been severed, silence. The two blood-covered heads rolling on the ground seemed not to have noticed their own deaths, still with drunken, relaxed, slack smiles.

　　Shinji knew of only one person who could do what ''that thing'' could do. He had just met him yesterday. In addition, that man had a motive to kill them.

　　Shinji became frantic, begging ''that thing'' for forgiveness. His voice did a complete about-face.

　　"Ka-Kazuma? You're Kazuma, right? Forgive me, it was my fault, I'm regretting it, so please, forgive meeee"

　　The only reply was the flash of the wind-blade. It severed his right arm at the base. The blade formed of a high density of spirits, cut through meat and bone as if it were tofu.

　　"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

　　While screaming, Shinji threw himself fully into starting Enjutsu. The intense concentration from being so close to death brought forth the greatest power of his 25 years of life.

　　''That thing'' was covered in golden flame. Destroying any and all demons, the highest level of purification. The flame burned through the darkness.

　　"Y-yeah! I think I——"

　　Suddenly, ''that thing'', now changed into a huge torch, began to move. Shinji's face, full of hope, froze.

　　''That thing'' stretched out a hand, easily taking hold of the golden flame, and in one movement, tore it from its body! 

　　''That thing'' had escaped from the flame's restraints, completely uninjured. To say nothing of its body, not even the clothes showed any sign of having been burned.

　　''That thing'' slowly turned to Shinji and began walking. Underneath the freezing moonlight, without a sound, it came closer, an ominous shadow.

　　This was in some ways, twisted. There was something there that the eye could not help being fascinated by. A scene filled with beauty that one had to admit was of the spirit world.

　　"Hee, heehee, heeheeeeheeheehee-, kyahahahaha, ahahahaha!"

　　Suddenly, Shinji began laughing in a strange voice.

　　From an overload of fear, apparently his mental equilibrium had snapped. Even when the wind blade soundlessly sliced through his body, splitting it, without even showing a reaction, he tumbled over laughing.

　　Perhaps ''that thing'' had tired of Shinji's lack of response. As if throwing away an unwanted toy, it casually sliced off his head.

　　There was a dull thunk. The third head rolled on the ground.

　　Even having finished killing everyone alive, ''that thing'' was still dissatisfied. It persistently continued slicing up the bodies. Though it was only a few minutes, the three bodies had been turned into many small pieces. To not even speak of the parents being able to recognize them, they wouldn't even be able to tell what kind of flesh it was.

　　The raw stink of blood and meat drifted through the kekkai. ''That thing'' laughed cruelly, and as if melting into the air, vanished.

　　Afterwards, three severed heads remained. In contrast to the bodies, there was not one injury on those heads.

　　Somehow, the three heads had ended up in a straight line to the gate; each had a strange smile, as if to say to anyone coming through that gate,

　　"Welcome to a nightmare world."

　　Words that appeared to be delivered smilingly.

　　And so the tragedy began——

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| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
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Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter1

2007-06-10T09:02:07Z

Kwok: /* 1 */

== Chapter One - The Disinherited Son Returns ==

=== 1 ===

　　"What bad taste……"

　　That was the first impression he had of the client. Incidentally, it should also be noted, that this is an impression that did not change in the slightest all the way to the end.

　　In this hilly high-class residential area, the mansion was sitting arrogantly on display. With a design that completely disregarded the harmony of its surroundings, there were plenty of reasons to doubt the owner's true character.

　　If one were to disregard the bad taste thus far, one might have to say it was rather magnificent. Climbing up Governor's Hill, about as close by as the famous Catholic girl's school, was the mansion. When he saw it, he was honestly, completely stunned.

　　(Did Turkish harems have this feel?)

　　Yagami Kazuma didn't seem to be joking when he thought that. "Don't paint the walls of a Japanese house in such wild colors!" he wanted to preach, while grabbing that person's collar. It was that kind of house.

　　This could probably be considered the place of origin of Japan's Westernization movement. The first gaslight was lit here; ice cream was put on sale here first. One would have expected it to be a stylish, refined town with a distinguished history.

　　(Considering that, this is probably some kind of breach of contract……)

　　He saw a decorated golden carp on the roof and let out a sigh. The image that was held dear in Yokohama, had crumbled away completely, with a clattering sound.

　　When he had accepted the job at the agency, he was given not only an address, but also a detailed map. It had been completely unnecessary, however. By asking the neighborhood residents, "What's the house with the poorest taste around here?" probably even a monkey could manage to find his way here.

　　A structure that was painful to the eyes —— he didn't want to call that a house —— that upon viewing, made Kazuma look up to the sky, begging. The sky was empty and blue.

　　"Hey, at least it's work……"

　　He muttered to convince himself.

　　However, this is the same Kazuma whose look probably couldn't by any means be called appropriate for work.

　　Jeans and sneakers, a checkered shirt and a black jacket. His youth, at 22 years old, and his relaxed facial expression made him seem, no matter how you looked at it, no different from a student from the nearby university.

　　He was completely blind to his own faults. While continuing his observations, he noticed something strange.

　　The darkness covering the mansion was thicker than he had been told. Because of this, maybe even an ordinary person with no spirit sight could sense darkness in the mansion's surroundings.

　　(Maybe I'll just go back……)

　　Nagged by a horribly bad premonition, Kazuma was halfway seriously thinking about that.

　　The darkness that covered the mansion —— it was something more unearthly than he had expected, but it wasn't so much that he couldn't deal with it. For this reason, this premonition was a bad omen. There was something else up.

　　Judging from his experiences up to now, it was a credible and important premonition. However, he couldn't just throw away work on that alone.

　　This was his first assignment in Japan. If he broke off the arrangement with only a "For some reason or another," he probably wouldn't be able to get jobs in the future.

　　With heavy steps, he made his way toward the mansion. He stopped once more, in front of a nonsensically huge gate.

　　While standing in front of the doorbell, Kazuma was still unsure. Danger signals were bombarding his instincts. He couldn't help wanting to run away. However ——

　　"Yagami-sama, I presume."

　　Without any warning, a voice came from the intercom, and completely disrupted Kazuma's thinking. He jumped back with a start, and stood guarded. The voice continued from before, without concern for this.

　　"You have been expected. Kindly enter through the auxiliary entrance on the side."

　　Click.

　　Simultaneous with those words, a small door to the ride side of the gate unlocked. Apparently he was supposed to just go in.

　　(Compared with that "You have been expected," that's some rude treatment…)

　　He was feeling uncomfortable, but he was dealing with a customer. As instructed, he entered through the side door.

　　Inside the fence was awash with a large number of security cameras and sensors. They must live a very shadowy life.

　　Upon walking into the entranceway, multiple cameras followed him. With anger almost to the point of wanting to kill whoever was putting him under this rude surveillance, Kazuma somehow repressed himself.

　　"Eeek……"

　　That's what he'd intended, but apparently it had shown on his face. The face of the maid, who had come to greet him, was filled with a fear akin to having come across a man-eating bear. Kazuma hurriedly smoothed over his expression.

　　"Welcome, please come this way."

　　She went from a horrible face, as if she were being picked up and eaten, to an overly bright smile.

　　It didn't seem possible for someone to change their expression that dramatically, forgetting their suspicions, but the maid smiled as if nothing had happened. A pro.

　　As the maid walked ahead, Kazuma observed her gratifyingly swaying bottom, while going to the living room to wait.

　　(It would have been better if I'd left……)

　　As soon as he was guided into the living room, Kazuma felt deep regret at his choice. There inside, was a thin little man, self-importantly lying back, legs outstretched —— the master of the mansion, and client, Sakamoto Nanigashi —— but he wasn't alone. There was one practitioner as well, a face he knew well.

　　That practitioner, upon recognizing Kazuma, showed fear on his face for a moment, and then immediately twisted his lips into a sneer, glaring at Kazuma with a face full of scorn.

　　"What, the other practitioner was you, Kazuma? You became a disinherited child of the Kannagi's because of your incompetence, and now you dare to call yourself a practitioner?"

　　Probably, those explanatory words were for Sakamoto to hear. Practitioner —— Kannagi. The youngest child of the branch family Yuuki, Shinji truly took great pleasure in abusing Kazuma.

　　Sakamoto showed the response Shinji had expected. His expression changed, and he approached Kazuma.

　　"So this is true, then? Isn't this different from what you said? You said you were a top class spiritual practitioner, so I hired you!"

　　Kazuma calmly —— while retreating the same distance as the other advanced —— answered.

　　"I don't know what the person at the agency said. If you're dissatisfied, perhaps I should leave?"

　　"Hmmph, that's right."

　　Sakamoto's eyes showed a faintly cunning light. Kazuma's, even at the best of times, scarce desire to work, quickly neared zero.

　　"Mmmm, how about this? Why don't you both try the exorcism, and only the successful one gets paid. Ahh, naturally I won't tell the loser to return the advance payment."

　　"Good idea, yeah."

　　They had been flippant words, but Shinji had immediately accepted them. And then, with the face of someone who has been completely made a fool of, he asked Kazuma.

　　"And what are you going to do?"

　　"I'm out."

　　Kazuma gave an immediate reply. In the scornful stares of the two, not even one muscle of an eyebrow moved.

　　"Hmmph, coward, sucking your finger. I'll show you a model example of Enjutsu."

　　"Model example, eh. Didn't you say that? Just like the youngest child of the branch family."

　　"Y-you!"

　　Having the one he looked down upon, in return look down upon him, Shinji was enraged. He completely forgot about being in front of a client, tightened a fist, and struck out.

　　It was a fist intent on crushing the skull, which Kazuma handled by opening his body to the left.

　　In the instant that Shinji's right thrust was dodged, he transferred the movement energy to his left leg, without stopping the rotation of his hips.

　　In reaction to the shift in center of gravity, his left leg flew up in a rotating kick from Kazuma's blind spot, aiming for his temple.

　　However, Kazuma, as if he had seen it, lightly bent his head back. The heel of Shinji's left leg passed by a few millimeters in front of his eyes.

　　Kazuma's movements were like the leaves of a tree swaying in the wind, without hesitation. Into the space the kicking foot had left, he entered, with complete spontaneity, and lightly swept Shinji's pivot leg. Shinji, his left leg still floating in the air, under the power of his own rotational power, violently slammed into the floor.

　　"Sh-shit!"

　　Shinji had just barely managed to do ukemi, and quickly got back up. Incorrigibly, he assumed a fighting posture.

　　"You — thinking you could beat me in Taijutsu? Even four years ago, you weren't a match for me. There's no way you could be an opponent for my current self."

　　"Sh-shut up!"

　　Kazuma showed not the least bit of triumph. He chided disinterestedly, as if facing a defiant child. Being looked down upon from such a securely elevated position, Shinji's reason made a sound and broke.

　　"Stop it right there, you two."

　　However, just then, a restraining voice spoke, and the two turned at the same time to the voice's owner. Sakamoto showed great satisfaction at having gotten their attention. Then, in a tone as if he were an extremely important person, he scolded them.

　　"I didn't call you here to have a fight. The furnishings in this room, no matter which one you look at, are each more expensive than what I'm paying you. Any kind of rough behavior would be troublesome, okay?"

　　Suddenly, around the vicinity of the money talk, there was a scumbag. The person in question was probably attempting to flaunt his assets, but for the ones made to listen, it was nothing but the stink of the nouveau riche pushed up their noses.

　　(Maybe I'll leave…… since I still get the advance payment.)

　　With the discomfort index continuing to rise, with no end in sight, Kazuma's desire to work had already dropped into minus territory. He couldn't help feeling that even being in this place was agony.

　　"Mm……?"

　　However, without warning, the unearthly presence began to converge, heralding a new development.

　　"——It's coming."

　　The unearthly presence that had been spread throughout the mansion, directed its focus to one point in the living room. Kazuma moved casually, putting Sakamoto and Shinji in between himself and that presence.

　　"What's that? What just……"

　　The unearthly presence had solidified into something black. Shinji, over 10 seconds slower than Kazuma, had finally noticed it as well.

　　"Mmmm, so it came out?"

　　"Wh-what? What's wrong?"

　　Hesitatingly breaking the suddenly tense atmosphere, Sakamoto shouted in a shrill voice.

　　Kazuma answered in place of Shinji, who was already beginning to focus his mind for the use of jutsu.

　　"It's work time. The 'evil spirit' or whatever you've been struggling with just came out."

　　While giving that offhand explanation, Kazuma felt a beyond-ordinary sense of unease.

　　(That's no evil spirit. What kind of thing is it?)

　　When Kazuma had first accepted the assignment, the person at the agency had said "Just a normal evil spirit exorcism."

　　—— Hey, your first job should be one of these, right? If you're as good as the rumors say, you should be able to take that evil spirit with one hand ——

　　A superficial seeming man, but with definite achievements, he had heard. Their kind of work was, in some sense, even more than for practitioners, something where confidence was life. Making a mistake this big was extremely unlikely. It wasn't an easy business, that that kind of irresponsible agency person could survive.

　　(Was I set up? Well, fine. Should I just observe his skill?)

　　Kazuma learned against the wall, crossed his arms, and looked about as if sightseeing.

　　Preparing himself for the appearance of the "evil spirit," Shinji was focusing his mind.

　　It seemed he was planning to burn it away as soon as it appeared. It was clear to see in his expression.

　　Suddenly, the space in front of Shinji turned dark and thick. Shinji faced both his palms towards each other, in order to set up a transparent ball in front of his chest. A small fire was held between those palms.

　　Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooon……

　　A voice full of resentment shook the air as the evil spirit showed itself. A melted-away face projected an infinite hatred to all living beings.


　　"Eeep!"

　　"HAAAA!!"

　　Paying no attention to the screaming Sakamoto, Shinji released a devastating flame, along with a sharp yell. The evil spirit became cleansed due to the fire; it had disappeared without a trace —— or so Shinji believed.

　　However——

　　"Idiot"

　　Gioooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo……

　　While the evil spirit's cries of agony echoed and Shinji was snickering —

　　Flame exploded.

　　"Gahhhhhhhhhh!?"

　　Shinji screamed, wrapped in flame. The uselessly large living room, in a moment, became a sea of flame.

　　"Kakakakakakakakakakakakakakakaka"

　　Shinji's flame had been eclipsed by the evil spirit. The flame had been completely devoured. The youma began to laugh sneeringly.

=== 2 ===

　　The Kannagi family is, even among the "Enjutsu users" who can freely manipulate fire, the strongest and most famous family. It is not simply just because their power is great. There is a special ability in the family's blood; the reason surely lies there. The flame that they manipulate is not through the physical phenomenon of the simple acceleration of molecular motion. It possesses the power to burn away impurities and destroy evil.

　　Because of this "purifying flame," the Kannagi family practitioners hold absolute dominance over youma, evil spirits, and all beings that transgress the law. Even with the ability given by blood, to the extent that blood is diluted, it is inevitable that that power will deteriorate.

　　Already, the branch family practitioners had long lost the highest rank of "gold". If a youma with fire attributes were the opponent, the released flame would even be likely to be absorbed.

　　For example, like just now —— the living room had been turned into purgatory. The high-class furniture and the shag carpet were already carbonizing. The glass from the chandelier on the ceiling had melted, turning into some grotesque art object.

　　"Wonder if he's dead?"

　　Kazuma muttered with a refreshed-looking face. A cool breeze wrapped around Kazuma; the raging flame wasn't even allowed to get close to him. Even the heat was sealed off; not a drop of sweat was apparent.

　　"H-help……"

　　A frail voice stimulated his eardrums. Kazuma looked down at the blackish object at his feet.

　　What had rolled screaming into the kekkai, was the former client, Sakamoto. He was burned here and there, but he didn't seem to be dead.

　　"Aaaaaa, he-help me!"

　　Sakamoto screamed while clinging onto Kazuma's legs. However Kazuma heartlessly kicked away his former client.

　　Thud!

　　Sakamoto's face began writhing in a new kind of pain, as it was mercilessly trampled upon. Since he didn't want to touch with anything beyond slippers, instead of stepping on him, he brought down his heel. It seemed like you could the skull making a creaking sound, but that wasn't a big problem.

　　Kazuma, trampled, grinding on Sakamoto's head, and clearly stated:

　　"You're not a client and I don't have the habit of saving middle-aged men."

　　"If it's money, I'll pay. Twice as much, or so……"

　　"Twice? Your life's worth only one million?

　　Kazuma took a cigarette from his pocket. He gently stretched out his hand, only exposing the cigarette's tip to the outside of the kekkai. He filled his lungs with tobacco smoke, and slowly let it out.

　　Sakamoto didn't have the leisure to be that relaxed. Whether on purpose, or by chance, only around Sakamoto, were there holes in the kekkai. The tongues of flame were beginning to lick him.

　　"Hot-, Ee-eeee, Help! I'll pay 10 million!"

　　"Thanks for your business."

　　Upon tossing away his cigarette, Kazuma changed suddenly, smiling brightly. The smile of a demon that had made a profitable deal.

　　"Alright now. Then, won't you please stand back?"

　　Kazuma kicked Sakamoto in the rear, sending him rolling, and as if it were obvious, proclaimed:

　　"You're in the way."

　　He began muttering in a staccato voice, and waved his right hand sideways in a mowing motion. As if being squeezed out by the hand, the raging fire was taken care of, expelled out the window.

　　The fire didn't spread to the grass and trees in the garden, but scattered and vanished.

　　And then, inside the room, a distorted face attached to a fireball — only the youma's true body remained.

　　Hyuuoou-

　　In place of the extinguished fire, wind raged around the room. Kazuma stood quietly. With his hand still in his jacket pocket, he did not move a finger. And yet, the wind followed Kazuma's intentions and erased the flame.

　　Already, the fight was over. In front of Kazuma's overwhelming power, the youma wasn't even able to put up any resistance as it was torn to pieces. All that was left to do was wait for its annihilation.

　　"And with this…"

　　Kazuma slowly raised his right hand. For someone with soul sight, the density of spirits crowding that hand would have been terrifying.

　　"…the end!"

　　Ten times faster than it came up, the hand swung down. In a straight-line extension from the right hand, an invisible blade that cut even air molecules, cleaved the youma precisely in two.

　　Without sound, without any spirit fragments remaining, Kazuma regarded the destroyed youma with a calm look.

　　"Finished."

　　Kazuma pronounced to Sakamoto, who was still lying on the floor, dumbfounded.

　　"Pay the money in 3 days. Otherwise, would you like to regret having ever been born?"

　　They were completely like a criminal's words. Even if that was a mistake, it wasn't the way you'd speak to a customer.

　　However, Sakamoto, realizing the horror of going against Kazuma, did not complain.

　　"Y-yes. Understood. But something terrible has happened to Yuuki-kun. I never thought something so serious would happen."

　　Kazuma wordlessly came closer to what appeared to be the ashes of Shinji's remains and despairingly trampled on them. As expected, Sakamoto also raised his voice.

　　"Wh-what are you doing!? I don't know whatever happened between you two, but you still shouldn't desecrate a corpse, right!?"

　　"He's not dead."

　　Kazuma spat the words out dryly, and then continued to kick him again and again.

　　Upon doing so, the ash covering the surface began to fall off, and almost unscalded skin appeared.

　　"Wh-wha……?"

　　Sakamoto doubted his eyes, with this unbelievable scene. Kazuma gave an offhand explanation.

　　"All of Kannagi's people receive the divine protection of fire spirits. Even people from the branch family wouldn't die in this degree of fire."

　　Kazuma curled his lips in self-derision, and added,

　　"I'm the exception though."

　　"Uu……Guu……"

　　Upon doing that, Shinji woke up. Upon looking out around him, he confirmed that the youma had already been destroyed.

　　"You did this?"

　　"It's just like you saw."

　　Who do you think you are, saying whatever you please? —— Kazuma answered with that kind of tone. He had already seen through, that Shinji had kept his consciousness. Shinji hurriedly attempted an explanation.

　　"So you noticed……? But I couldn't help. I honestly couldn't move."

　　"I don't want to hear your excuses."

　　Kazuma coldly spoke that over his shoulder, as he turned his back. Shinji called out to the unhesitating figure leaving. There was still something that had to be said.

　　"Why did you return?"

　　"Must have been for something, I guess"

　　At that play-dumb answer, thinking he was being evaded, Shinji's gaze became sharp.

　　"'For something' …. Do you think the elders are going to understand that?"

　　"I was only disinherited, I wasn't deported. Where I am is my business."

　　"What are you planning?"

　　"Nothing in particular."

　　Kazuma answered curtly, shrugging his shoulders.

　　"Are you returning to the Kannagi?"

　　"Idiotic talk. Not even if I die."

　　He answered as if spitting out the words, and then Kazuma, this time, without hesitating, walked off.

　　Shinji was driven by an unease he couldn't stop. He continued to stare at Kazuma.

　　(I have to tell this to the suzerain as soon as possible……)

　　Shinji's unease was, in a sense, on the mark. A war to push the Kannagi into an abyss of ruin, was currently, from this moment, beginning.

===3===

　　"Did you hear it? It seems Kazuma has returned to Japan."

　　"What, that incompetent has? It must be dead simple to be a fuujutsu practitioner.

　　"Nope, 'I am a dark magician' is what I heard. For him to become a practitioner, he'd have to sell his soul to the devil, right?"

　　"Ah, that's probably true."

　　"Ahahahahaha……"

　　That day, rumors of Kazuma were the talk of the Kannagi main house. Of the elders — the general term for one retired from active service and now overseeing the management of the practitioners — having heard Shinji's report, only one wasn't jokingly spreading around nonsense.

　　For the offense of the aforesaid Shinji's failure in his duty, he was currently under probation. Tail fin, dorsal fin, belly fins, all being wildly added to the rumor, until it grew to maturity, and not one person tried to stop it.

　　The source of the rumors, the elders, appeared to be in complete delight. The kind of people called elders, if you excepted the extremely serious exceptions, were basically men of leisure. "Looking important is work," and so on, was the gossip that some attacked with.

　　When there was no work, all day, they would drink tea, and amuse themselves by talking about various topics. Obviously, they could not resist something interesting to talk about.

　　Upon hearing Shinji's news, they were dancing for joy on the inside. The elders, when they passed the verdict of probation on the dejected Shinji, had even something of a skipping type of light gait, while they drank tea and turned back to each other. They haphazardly began talking like this:

　　"Ohh, did you know……?"

　　The elders were, during this work time, like different people, in energetic activity.

　　Within the hour, there was almost nobody in the huge mansion that had not heard of Kazuma's return to the country. It certainly reached the servants, and then all kinds of people heard about it.

　　It was, in short, a situation where almost nobody knew the true facts, but it wasn't a big problem for the elders, since "If it's interesting, who cares what happens later!" was the elders' basic attitude.

　　And so, news of Kazuma spread — the exact opposite direction that Shinji was hoping for,

　　To wit——

　　"Kazuma returned as a dark magician."

　　"Kazuma was secretly murdered; he's buried in the back garden."

　　"Kazuma clashed with Shinji during work and killed him suddenly."

　　"Kazuma made a contract with the wind spirits. An evil demon."

　　The truth was subtly mixed in, but having come this far, nobody could really interpret it. Obviously, no one feared Kazuma's retribution.

　　The main family's failure had left all his talent in his mother's womb, like liquid skimmed off the top, had somewhat found a preferable power to take in, it seemed. Nobody laughed at that.

　　However, there were a small number of exceptions. One of those was the current suzerain, Kannagi Juugo. During supper, in the humorous talk that was being told, there was one item that Juugo was interested in.

　　"Ohhhh? Kazuma chose fuujutsu? Did you know that, Genma?"

　　Juugo spoke to his cousin sitting next to him. For some reason, as if harboring some ill will, he smiled a hating smile.

　　"……Oh"

　　Genma answered in brief. The rumor having apparently already reached his ears, and he didn't appear disturbed.

　　However, it was clear that he wasn't happy about the rumor either. The saying "like someone chewing up a bitter bug" perfectly described his frown, as he gripped a tight fist.

　　If Kazuma was in front of me, I'd want to strangle him to death. It was that kind of face.

　　"It's shameful."

　　"It's not especially shameful."

　　Juugo answered lightly, and then gave a command to a servant.

　　"I would like to hear a detailed account. Call Shinji."

　　"Certainly."

　　Shinji went as far as scraping down to the tatami in his prostration. His tension was great, sweat floated on his forehead, and his breathing was disordered.

　　Regarding the Kannagi family, it would be fitting to say that the difference between the main family and the branch family's status was absolute. To even dream of a revolution was foolish.

　　Tradition, social status —— it wasn't a system based on that kind of abstract idea. The thing separating the two was only, only the overwhelming difference in power.

　　If all the practitioners of the branch family were to fight, if it was with someone like Juugo or Genma, they could be smashed by the wiggle of a little finger. Because of that kind of hopeless power difference, no thoughts of rebellion were harbored.

　　You could say it was understandable that Shinji would be under such tension. In front of Juugo, who had something similar to a god's absolute superiority, and having to recount his clumsy failure. This was definitely worse than the original feeling.

　　"Raise your face. You don't have to humble yourself like that."
　　
　　Juugo spoke in a friendly manner, but to look into the suzerain's face and speak, was far too overwhelming for Shinji. In the end, he raised his face, but his eyes still stared towards the tatami, as he submitted his report.

　　"A-and, I now have the privilege of being allowed to give this report."

　　"……I see."

　　When Shinji had finished recounting everything, Juugo said that, and was silent for a while.

　　"……I see."

　　As if to confirm, he repeated it one more time. He closed his eyes lightly, and reminisced back to when his nephew — to be accurate, the relation was more separated than that, but he used that label since it was too much trouble — had left 4 years ago.

　　(——What a poor child he was.)

　　If he had been born to any but the Kannagi family, he would have been considered a superior child, probably. Excellent intellect, good reflexes too, and he also showed great promise in learning the jutsu. Except for one; only if you excepted the ability to manipulate fire.

　　However, that was certainly, for the Kannagi family, the most necessary ability.

　　Someone with no talent for manipulating fire, no matter what else he was proficient at, was treated as an incompetent. As a result of that, Kazuma was no longer part of the Kannagi.

　　Yet —— Juugo thought.

　　(Why didn't you ask me for help, Kazuma? There was no need to disown you from the family. If it was me, I would have made a place for you. Whatever Genma said, I wouldn't have cared about the Enjutsu, I would have made use of your talent, yet despite that…..)

　　Juugo looked down upon his right leg. That right leg was a thing made of metal and plastic. If that accident hadn't happened, and the "rule of inheritance" hadn't been rushed, maybe Kazuma would be here right now?

　　However, it was far too late. Kazuma had thrown away the family, the family name, all that was Kannagi, and had left Japan. This was reality. "The past," a thing that could never be changed.

　　"……Suzerain?"

　　That uncertain sounding voice brought Juugo back to reality. Upon looking around, he found everyone in an uncomfortable silence. It wasn't surprising. Among these, there were almost none who had not tormented Kazuma.

　　However, the one who had driven Kazuma out was calm. That person —— Genma, spoke out, without a single change in his expression.

　　"Suzerain. Kazuma is already someone without any connection to the Kannagi. There is no need to worry about him."

　　"Genma, you would, of your own son ——"

　　"I have only one son, Ren."

　　Genma spoke coolly, interrupting the suzerain's words. Juugo tried to say something else in reply, but disliking unproductive battles, he put other, safer words into his mouth.

　　"It's fine then. After all, Kazuma has become successful with fuujutsu. Maybe it was best that he left the Kannagi. Or maybe, Hyoue, if he had been entrusted to your place, he would have become skilled and powerful?"

　　"Perhaps."

　　Sitting at a lower seat, the head of the Fuuga clan answered sullenly. 

　　At that, Genma again cut in with an objection.

　　"We are afraid, yet Fuujutsu and such, are after all, lower arts. The most they are capable of is acting as assistants to Enjutsu. Even supposing 4 years ago, we knew of Kazuma's talent for Fuujutsu, for us to leave him to people like the Fuuga clan, clearly, we would still have to disinherit him."

　　Hearing his art publicly insulted, Hyoue twisted his face in humiliation. However, nobody paid any attention to Hyoue, nor to his face.

　　For the Kannagi family, who only noticed the value of fighting power, the Fuuga clan, having been given the reconnaissance and battle support duties, were limited to a lower status. Genma's words were not reckless. They weren't anything beyond the normal beliefs of the other Kannagi.

　　"……We will go no further with this talk. Dinner will become unpleasant."

　　At Juugo's words, everyone showed clearly relieved expressions on their faces. As if on cue, cheerful talk began, and they rolled around laughing at silly jokes.

　　Though awkwardly, the usual dining hall atmosphere returned.

　　And so, nobody noticed the dark light harbored in Hyoue's eyes. He repressed the expression on his face, and murmured in a voice so small that it did not reach even his own ears.

　　"I will not forget this disgrace, Genma……"

=== 4 ===

　　"Kannagi……no, Yagami Kazuma……? You came back at a very good time!"

　　"Huo-huo-huo……"

　　In a darkness-filled single room, without even one streak of light in it, a hoarse laugh broke into the strained silence.

　　"And……?"

　　"Yes, it's better if everyone hears this. Finally the time has come. The time when we must dispel the disgrace that has lasted 300 years. Now is the time for us to regain the power we lost and return to our previous glorious position."

　　"Ohhhhhhhhh…………"

　　A stifled commotion filled the air. No one shouted. Afraid of being discovered, they kept their breaths in check, keeping their tension locked in themselves.

　　"Oh, when you finally realize it, you Kannagi. We will overthrow you and leave not a single one remaining……Kukuku……"

　　A low and gloomy voice echoed with a resentment darker than darkness.

　　"U-uwaaaaaaaaaaaa! Wha-what, what are you doing-!"

　　That same day, late at night, Shinji screamed out. Nearby were two freshly severed heads, and two headless corpses tumbled down. And then, standing before him, a —— human?

　　Shinji wasn't able to say for certain. By outward appearance, there was nothing different from a human, but that unearthliness was something a person could not possibly have.

　　The two who had been living up until 30 seconds ago, had been captured in a kekkai without even any chance to prepare themselves, and had been immediately decapitated.

　　The mysterious person had not moved a single finger. And yet, Shinji had clearly witnessed two heads being sliced off with incredible force, as if it was nothing. Or rather, had been forced to witness.

　　Shinji was the only person left living, even though the other two surpassed him in skill. It wasn't because of luck. Shinji realized this more than anyone else.

　　He was being toyed with. This demon in human shape was feeding on Shinji's fear and hopelessness. For a moment, it held off killing him, playing with him lazily, enjoying his empty resistance.

　　"What the hell! What did I do……?"

　　''That thing'' gave no answers. Without even footsteps, it came near, taking its time.

　　''That thing'' was completely silent. Not even the hint of a sound, as it drew closer. wielding an invisible sword.

　　Even when those heads had been severed, silence. The two blood-covered heads rolling on the ground seemed not to have noticed their own deaths, still with drunken, relaxed, slack smiles.

　　Shinji knew of only one person who could do what ''that thing'' could do. He had just met him yesterday. In addition, that man had a motive to kill them.

　　Shinji became frantic, begging ''that thing'' for forgiveness. His voice did a complete about-face.

　　"Ka-Kazuma? You're Kazuma, right? Forgive me, it was my fault, I'm regretting it, so please, forgive meeee"

　　The only reply was the flash of the wind-blade. It severed his right arm at the base. The blade formed of a high density of spirits, cut through meat and bone as if it were tofu.

　　"Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

　　While screaming, Shinji threw himself fully into starting Enjutsu. The intense concentration from being so close to death brought forth the greatest power of his 25 years of life.

　　''That thing'' was covered in golden flame. Destroying any and all demons, the highest level of purification. The flame burned through the darkness.

　　"Y-yeah! I think I——"

　　Suddenly, ''that thing'', now changed into a huge torch, began to move. Shinji's face, full of hope, froze.

　　''That thing'' stretched out a hand, easily taking hold of the golden flame, and in one movement, tore it from its body! 

　　''That thing'' had escaped from the flame's restraints, completely uninjured. To say nothing of its body, not even the clothes showed any sign of having been burned.

　　''That thing'' slowly turned to Shinji and began walking. Underneath the freezing moonlight, without a sound, it came closer, an ominous shadow.

　　This was in some ways, twisted. There was something there that the eye could not help being fascinated by. A scene filled with beauty that one had to admit was of the spirit world.

　　"Hee, heehee, heeheeeeheeheehee-, kyahahahaha, ahahahaha!"

　　Suddenly, Shinji began laughing in a strange voice.

　　From an overload of fear, apparently his mental equilibrium had snapped. Even when the wind blade soundlessly sliced through his body, splitting it, without even showing a reaction, he tumbled over laughing.

　　Perhaps ''that thing'' had tired of Shinji's lack of response. As if throwing away an unwanted toy, it casually sliced off his head.

　　There was a dull thunk. The third head rolled on the ground.

　　Even having finished killing everyone alive, ''that thing'' was still dissatisfied. It persistently continued slicing up the bodies. Though it was only a few minutes, the three bodies had been turned into many small pieces. To not even speak of the parents being able to recognize them, they wouldn't even be able to tell what kind of flesh it was.

　　The raw stink of blood and meat drifted through the kekkai. ''That thing'' laughed cruelly, and as if melting into the air, vanished.

　　Afterwards, three severed heads remained. In contrast to the bodies, there was not one injury on those heads.

　　Somehow, the three heads had ended up in a straight line to the gate; each had a strange smile, as if to say to anyone coming through that gate,

　　"Welcome to a nightmare world."

　　Words that appeared to be delivered smilingly.

　　And so the tragedy began——

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| Return to [[Kaze_no_Stigma|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Kaze_no_Stigma:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
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</noinclude>

Kaze no Stigma:Volume1 Chapter2

2007-06-07T10:14:14Z

Kwok: minor edit

== Chapter Two - The sudden disaster ==

=== 1 ===
“Not ready yet? Until what time do we have to wait, Hyoue?”

“— — Please wait a little longer,” Hyoue replied towards the seemingly impatient person.

Then, that person closed his eyes pensively and walked away. The wind was blowing against Hyoue. Within the blowing wind was the air still with the ki of youma, passing through beneath Hyoue’s palm. The ki of youma that passed beneath his palms was like an air that would swallow anyone, no matter whom.

When the slices of meat of the three people was discovered, it was already dawn, and this unbelievably serious situation strongly shocked the entire Kannagi clan.

This is a certainty, using speed that surpasses the speed to cover your ears, killing 3 defensively prepared people without alerting anyone.

In order to understand the situation, the Fuga Clan were summoned, thus Hyoue himself gather the youma ki in the air to understand who the enemy is.
“hmm”
“T—, This is….”

Sounds of concentration. Hyoue used the reappeared youma ki, without missing any that passed through the palms, then gathering it together. This is a very cold air. Even for the very famous jutsu practitioners provides sufficient reasons to fear it.

“This is from fuujutsu, this is created by a jutsu practitioner that is in a completely different category from us the Fuga Clan, entrapping the 3 people in the wind “kekkai” and then killed.

The report of Hyoue isn’t something beneficial, and could be easily understood from settings of the place.

“This kind of things I understand, but who did it?!”

“If you required a detailed report, I hope more time is allowed…” facing this inquiry Hyoue made this indistinct reply.

“Then quickly go do it, you guys can only act...”

“All be quiet!”

Given Juugo angry voice all jutsu practitioners became silent, in substitution only Juugo’s condolingly voice.

“Is it like that, good job, you can retire. — — right, how’s the health of Ryuya?
At that instance, Hyoue appeared surprised due to the Suzerain’s concern over his son’s health.

“Yes… If he quietly recuperates there shouldn’t be any problems. Although he can no longer recover to the level to be working for the Kannagi clan anymore. This unworthy son, is really an embarrassment.”

Given Juugo’s words of gratitude, Hyoue bows .

“Yes… Thank you very much. I will go give indications to my subordinates, for I will retire….”

“Then please, I await your reply, Hyoue.”
The captain of the Fuuga family bows silently and then leaves.

The enemy is a fuujutsu practitioner that deeply hates the Kannagi Clan. Using some reasoning, everyone thinks the name of one person; the name of the man of the one that coincidentally at this time returned to Japan.

“It’s Kazuma! The strength he obtained for revenge, and then returned to Japan! Comrades, let’s kill the betrayer Kazuma. Let’s find him without delay, and then kill him!”

The person that made such an aggressive voice is the previous suzerain, Yorimichi. Even though he has retired, he still has an air of the previous suzerain. The entire clan intensely dislikes him, although he is the only one that doesn’t know.

“Oto-san, first to clarify, we don’t have evidences that Kazuma did this.”
Juugo seriously said in order to defect Yorimichi's tirade.

“You! Who else if it is not Kazuma…”

“[Previous Suzerain], please hold silent. From when you open your mouth to speak such words it is not possible for us discuss the issue.”

Facing Yorimichi with ear impairment, Genma coldly looks on. In those eyes appears aninsulting look that cannot be hidden.

Facing this person that has no strength except for scheming ability and was chosen suzerain. Genma from the depth of his heart condescends him.

In Yorimichi’s thirty years as suzerain, the strength of the Kannagi Clan has hit rock bottom. Given Yorimichi inability to control the representative sword of the Kannagi Clan, and his incapacity of passing the sword to someone else; resulting in it being deeply buried in the warehouse before Juugo’s accession to the suzerain position.

Of course this Genma was not thinking about such foolish item.
Genma’s notion is that the strongest jutsu practitioner should be one that succeeds the suzerain position; therefore Genma does not hate the suzerain, Juugo, only that his own strength isn’t enough in comparison.

Previously, he wanted to prepare his son to be next suzerain, even though it is not really a scheme, he just wanted to train and prepare Kazuma with the strength to become the next suzerain.

Though Yorimichi doesn’t really have any such thoughts as beliefs, he only has the ambition for power. This is what Genma thought. Logically, no matter how Genma tried to hide his thoughts, those thoughts are revealed when he further enraged Yorimichi.

Even though they are of a close family/blood relationship of uncle and nephew, the loathing between the two again deepens.

“Y, You want to shield Kazuma? No, I should say that is your scheme? Allow Kazuma to go outside the country to learn jutsu then kill off Juugo and Ayano, then allow Ren to succeed the position of suzerain?

Yorimichi turned the arrowhead towards Genma. This kind of bad will was almost materializing like “sticky things connecting items together”, allowing the crowd to start agitating.

“That kind of idea only comes from with “low moral fiber.” 
For Yorimichi’s such sayings, the almost insulting provocation, Genma didn’t contradict —— because the reply would be extremely disrespectful.

“Oto-san, that’s enough!”

Juugo wouldn’t allow the continuation of such insulting diatribe; therefore he forcefully hurried the people to take him away.

“The [Previous Generation] is tired, please return to your room to rest.”

“Wait, Juugo! Genma is not to be trusted! If you don’t listen to me, sooner or later you will regret it!”
Yorimichi was carried away like luggage. That harsh voice slowly decreases in volume until nothing is heard.

“Really sorry for the insulting diatribes of my father, with regards to me please forgive him.”

Juugo puts his both hands on the tatami in a slight bow. Genma replied indifferently, “I didn’t pay attention; the reason for such words is the previous generation caring deeply about the Kannagi Clan.”

With an exchange of looks, understanding the others reasoning they smiled at the same time, and with that they understood that chatting time is over, now is time to enter to serious points.

“Like the previous suzerain has said, the timing is too much of a coincidence. It is better to meet again and have a discussion.”

Genma from the start maintain his silence, seems like he doesn’t want to discuss about his son.

“Would Kazuma easily submit to our instructions?”

“If he doesn’t submit, we will use strength to bring him here. Even though he has obtained strength, that person is Kazuma. 2 or 3 people will be more than enough to capture him.”

“….That’s good then. The selection of person in charge of the assignment will be your responsibility. No matter what, it is necessary to quickly bring back Kazuma.”
“Understood”

Even though Genma received an order to capture his own son, Genma was tranquil comparable to facing someone else.

“Ayano-sama has returned!”

The serious expression on Juugo’s face started to relax, and Genma wore a highly energetic and fierce look.
Not even waiting a little, she just appeared.

“pah” and she pulled slided the door, collecting everyone’s look towards that direction.

“I home, Oto-san! Ehh… What’s going on?” 
Appearing on scene was a sufficiently commanding young teenage girl, asked when she saw the atmosphere of the gathering. That black hair that almost reaches the back, flowing straight and sideways created by the movements of her head, simply represents the blooming of a bishojo. At the same moment, the “dark and cold” atmosphere had completely vanished. That is a spiritual energy that comes from within that in one breath cleansed the atmosphere of the room.

The appearance of an unclear enemy who killed some people at home. Those people that have been discussing this situation nonstop, now is like facing a blinding light, that uncomfortable and distressing feeling is completely vanished.

Like before the rays of the sun, all the movements in dark are not allowed to exist. Only right there was the person that has the ability to vanquish the dark with spiritual powers not beneath the powers for light, the next suzerain in waiting owner of Enraiha person.
That’s person is Juugo’s daughter, Kannagi Ayano.

“How’s the report, Ayano?”
Juugo was testing his daughter with a serious expression, like when asking other people. This is best way as a father to direct his daughter; at least this is what Juugo thinks.

“Excuse me”
Ayano at that moment also finished bowing.
“The youma that was release was completely vanquished.”

“Hmm, good job.”
As a jutsu practitioner, after finish reporting to the suzerain, Ayano innocently continue questioning.
“Then, what had actually happened, oto-san?”

“Hmm——, previously 3 people have been killed and nobody had noticed. This is a serious situation!”

Although they were distant relatives, Ayano quieted after hearing that 3 people from the family had been killed. “A serious situation” wasn’t that “3 people have been killed” instead it was because “nobody had noticed.”

This was not some callous sentiment, but it is an understanding of what is of primary importance. A girl of only sixteen year old, who has such a strong will and discipline, is surprising.

“Nobody saw that fuujutsu-shi?”
“Of course, there is a suspect.”

Faced with Ayano’s questioning, Juugo replied heavily.
“It’s Kazuma”

“Who’s that? That’s?”

Faced with this kind of close and revealing speech, Juugo’s “sun vein” furrowed.

“Think carefully about your older cousin’s name. “Successor Ceremony” betting Enraiha who fought with you.”

“Older cousin… Could it be the Kazuma that left the family 4 years ago? Could that be label as a fight?”

Given his daughter’s direct words, Juugo secretly spied on Genma’s expression to see if there were any changes. Even though the inner feelings are not apparent, even the outer unreadable appearance of Genma had no change at all.

“Right, I heard that he left the country… and trained there. Later he became a fuujutsu-shi?”

“That’s how it is, supposedly returned to Japan recently, and changed his name to Yagami Kazuma. Yesterday, he met with the killed Shinji during a job, where he beautifully completed it. It seems like in these 4 years he trained very hard.

“Kazuma… Looks like he hates us…”
Finally remembering, Ayano said looking towards a distant place.

“It could be like that”
Genma replied with a void of facial expression.

“But, even though it is like that, we can’t easily kill him. If it was done by him, we need to use his life to pay for the crimes.”

“If?...”

Ayano turned her glance toward Genma, Genma without any change accepted Ayano’s look. The one that disinherited Kazuma and the one that provided the reason for the inheritance cross their gazes.

The first to avoid her look was Ayano. Without regards to strength as jutsu practitioners, life experience is immensely surpassed. In reality, even with careful searching (she’s) still void of self-confidence in order to win.

After stopping unsatisfied challenge/look , Ayano look towards Juugo.

“Then, what will be done? Defeat him?

“Now we haven’t decided whether it was done by Kazuma, anyways, we would like to meet with him and discuss it.”

Faced with his daughter’s simplistic and dangerous words, Genma deeply felt the danger.
Even though she has the Enraiha’s overwhelming power, Ayano no matter what she is doing tends to resort to violence. Genma frequently hopes that as she is the next suzerain she would have less impulsive way of thinking.

“Now is not time for you, wait until there are other missions to be done.”

“…Yes”

Faced with a barely compliant daughter, Juugo said condolingly.

“You have just finished a mission, you must be tired, today get some good rest.”

“… I understand.”

Even though it seems like it is not acceptable, Ayano still obeys what her father has said. After “bowing”, rapidly leaves the room. Until the “door” closed, Juugo didn’t blink, releasing a deep unhappy expression about her.

“……………This stubborn daughter.”

Juugo seemly saying “not acceptable” and sighing deeply. Even though it is with this kind of strict speech manner, the care and love for her daughter no matter what is hard to hide.

This two people have said the sayings for many times. To put it correctly, Shingo, due to his younger brother’s death has a burning fire for revenge. Takeya, no matter how many times you tell him to pay attention to his orders will still forget it, said he was nagging 

They are waiting for the report, and then immediately go towards Kazuma’s direction. 

=== 2 ===
For the information network of the Kannagi Clan to find the place Kazuma was staying was really simple.

To find him the next morning didn’t really require any special methods, because he used his own name to register at the hotel.

So given Genma’s command, two jutsu practitioners were sent.
Yuuki Shingo and Oogami Takeya were the strongest jutsu practitioners of the branch families. Even though they have opposing personalities, they are great friends. This combination excluding the main family can be said to be without rivals.

From Genma viewpoint, he has thrown in the two strongest cards on hand. But, possibly the selection of oldest son of the Yuuki family can be said as deadly mistake. Why, because this man has absolutely no desire to convince Kazuma.

“Kazuma, you “bastard”, I will cut you ten-thousand pieces.” (Note: there is one character, I think in Mandarin, Japanese, and Korean that is equal to ten-thousand. Historically ten-thousand is also a big number, can also be infinite.)

“If he is dead, it will become problematic. At least let’s leave him with the ability to talk when we take him back.”

As they wait for the upcoming report, they will directly head towards Kazuma’s direction. Of course, they have absolutely no desire to persuade him. At least they didn’t have this kind of desire, but what they never contemplated was that they would be ones assaulted.

“Still not ready yet?”

“It’s going to be ready soon.”

This kind of discussion cannot satisfy them at all; don’t know how many times they have repeatedly asked. Given that the two of them are waiting to receive the same report, they should know it doesn’t matter how they ask… .

“What the “hell” are they doing, those useless Fuga clan! It’s only that one person Kazuma, can’t they easily bring him over!”
Shingo reprimanded angrily, in reality they have turn the arrowhead towards the Fuga clan.

“This is worrying, Fuga clan might even be connected to this situation.”
Takeya forcefully said some pretty words to sway Shingo, Fuga shielding him isn’t impossible, using words that attack them, in order to change the attention of Shingo is certainly welcomed.

Thinking momentarily, Shingo grinded his teeth angrily and said.

“damn, they only have slightly sharper senses, what is there to be complacent about.”

“Don’t say it like that; they are just a bunch of sad people with non-discussable/nil fighting power. Even failing to do something simple, very pathetic?”

“That’s right, hahaahahahahahaaaaa…”

Just like Takeya have wished, Shingo have completely forgotten about the issue to reprimand. Hearing this sudden liberated laughter, Takeya has a thought — — Not like what was heard 10 seconds ago “Still not ready yet?” Similarly he feels very slow and lengthy.

“Incoming, in the area right head about 500 meters, looks like he hasn’t noticed.”

Suddenly, amidst the conversation between the two a voice appears. This is a jutsu used by Fuga clan called “Method of Summoning/Calling Spirits” used for sending the voice.
This allows the wind to carry the voice, even works for large distances.

“Coming, won’t leave him no limbs, neither legs nor arms, burn it all. Let’s attack!”

This was not voiced for anybody to hear, only Shingo’s mumblings to himself. This can be seen from the hatred-filled eyes; certainly really problematic.

Even though they didn’t continue their discussion how to punish, at least put up some resistance, that’s how he thinks. Until he’s half dead, could slowly torture him besides what was mentioned before, there’s plenty more.

Takeya slightly separated himself and quickly glanced, being with someone this dangerous, his thoughts from inner self a certain divide. 

Just like that a divide in the friendship, appears Kazuma.

Facing that with no alertness, completely nonchalant——viewed from their perspective—— walks along Kazuma, Takeya in order to alert him shouted.

“Long time no see, Kazuma!”

“ah, the successor from the Oogami?”

At that instance, to connect your recollection and present needs time. But, Takeya is waiting for that instance.

It’s this kind of prideful self-elevation that results in lagging concentration.

“Know why we are looking for you?”

Takeya pressures that Shingo with blood-filled eyes ready to release fireballs, using a condescending method of speech.

“Nope, completely don’t understand”

Kazuma reply could be described as “couldn’t be more direct”, but also apparently has some percentage of challenge. By crunching his head and neck and making a certain exaggerating and sarcastic action, then shook his head in denial, predictably piss Takeya off enough for veins to be showing.
Takeya succeeded in controlling his anger, and recovering his cool begins to explain.

“Yesterday night, Kannagi Clan had three jutsu practitioners killed.

“uhmm ——, and?
And like with all the authority Kazuma asked pressuringly.

“The one that killed was a fuujutsu-shi.

“……………………..”

“……………………..”

The environs were surrounded by silence. Warm wind blowing through the dusk “Tree-Shadow” Road  , the red leaves lightly started to dance, shining upon by crimson sun the red leaves are dyed even a darker shade of red, this is the beauty that appears before the darkness controlled world.

“……………..”

The first to open his mouth was Kazuma’s side, compared to silence, it seems like he further detest being stared by men.

“So what is the matter?”

“The suzerain has things to ask you, follow!”

“It wasn’t me! Finished!”

The instance after saying such words and was thinking to leave, Kazuma suddenly bounced horizontally
outwards, an instance before in the space where Kazuma existed, without touching anything appeared a fireball.

Kazuma —— doesn’t know why Takeya —— looks towards Shingo , consequently Shingo using a deep, like a natural born deep voiced snigger.

“hmhmhm, what’s the matter, you finally did it? Then, there is no other way besides using power to suppress!”

At the same time of the shout, surrounding Shingo tongues of crimson begin to burn and dance.
The flames that appear at the same time as the yell, even though connected to Shingo’s body, the clothes were not burnt. Shingo had surprisingly unthought-of carefulness.

Like the flames that continue to move on his body, Shingo was so happy that his lips were slanted, and said in like a proclamation.

“If you can’t speak about it then it is questionable, burn off your arms and legs! Lessening the weight will make it easier to transport around! Won’t kill you now, but you can’t continue living in such a humiliating condition? After the suzerain finishes his questioning I’ll be nice and kill you! Within one week! Use this time for you to fully regret living. I want you to know! Killing Shinji, absolutely cannot allow you to continue living untroubled!”

Assuming the future will be like that was his words were saying. But, Kazuma facing crazily laughing Shingo, looked as if he was watching some rare animal, asked very seriously.

“Kannagi Clan has recently given food to this kind of thing?”

“—No, Ahh….hu….”

Takeya really had no reply. Considering himself to be normal, did want to recognize that the thing with him is the same kind.

“That person usually adores Shinji, now he hates you who killed Shinji is quite within reason.”

“That’s why I said it wasn’t me.”

“Then please go and clarify everything with the suzerain.”

“I am no longer part of the Kannagi Clan, if he has business with me tell him to come look for me himself, please pass it like that to him.”

“… Negotiation is broken then, it seems.”
In order to make good the words, Takeya raised his “ki”. He then directed the surrounding dancing fire spirits to dance with his self-conscious.

The surrounding temperature was raised enough to be felt by the skin. Even though the fire spirits haven’t materialize, the surroundings have evidently changes in physics.

Seems like frightened in faced of such elevated fighting spirit, scores of red leaves continually fluttered down, the bright red leaves before touching Takeya’s body instantly changes to ashes and floated off.

Still Kazuma, like before, stood there with hands in the leather jacket watched the two of them. It seems like he has no desire to confront the Kannagi Clan, of course it is hard to see from that kind of pose.

“This is the last opportunity, yield humbly to us, Kazuma.”

Faced with Takeya last ultimatum, Kazuma raises his middle finger and says.
“Take a good look at yourselves before coming.”

“Die!!!!!”

“You idiot!”

At the instance of starting the jutsus, the two believed that victory would be certain. Because in the clan the two of the strongest class attacking at the same time. No matter what kind of strategy Kazuma had, face with kind of massive power is useless.

But——
Poou! 
The fireball from Takeya hand, suddenly instanteously explodes. Above the sound, the fireball in his credulity had such a big categorical runaway explosion.

The fireball that left Takeya’s control, was like a wild animal with its tooth pulled. Even with the protection of the fire spirit, it is still no possible to shield the crash of the explosion’s force.
Instantly the force of the explosion hits the entire body, Takeya was simply KO.

(W,What? What had happened…? Shit, Shingo, leave….)

Even though “Leave the rest to you” this kind of saying, but Shingo similarly lost his conscious, because on his face the black and blue continuously pulsed.

Kazuma returns his hands back in the pockets of the leather jacket; lower his head at the two people. After releasing a condescending grin, he walked right by the two unconscious person’s side.

Even though it seems like he wanted to directly leave, at that time Kazuma stops his footsteps. Then as if he felt something, looked towards the trees where no one is at.

“If you want to pick a fight with me, I won’t be merciful!?”

At the same time of this warning, one of the trees separated. Without any noise from the chopped tree following the break slowly slid down.

Already forgetting to hide the body, stood dumbly staring at Kazuma, then Kazuma turns to leave. The guarding jutsu practitioner was fearful. The one that was lured was himself? The prey we were hunting is this frightening thing——?

=== 3 ===
“Seriously, oto-san worries too much. I alone is enough don’t know how many times this has been repeated. When will he acknowledge me? Am I this untrustworthy?”

“The suzerain acknowledges ojo-sama’s abilities, only as a father he simply worries about his daughter.”

Confronted with the disgruntled Ayano, the man of fortieth generation/years-old cajoled.

At this time, Ayano was ordered to a certain temple in the city of Yokohama Yamate, to strengthen the weakening seal inside. The day before the accident, encountered the employer of Kazuma —— of course, single mindedness heading to location to vanquish the spirits, and not understand the reason. '''! '''

Upon arrival to the location discovered the seal has deteriorated to point beyond the previously assumed limits. Ayano immediately destroys the idea of the resealing, instead decided to eliminate it. Then without any testing she immediately ripped off the seal.

Popular saying was. “This method is faster.” 

People without significant confidence in ones own ability would not say something like that, certainly the two men that accompanied her also know that she has the necessary ability to go along with such self-confidence.

Certainly, Juugo also knows that she has this kind of ability, but such worries of a father are within reason. Even describing Juugo as stupid or foolish, most of times he sends two or more people to protect her.

“Don’t mix the work with private life, is frequently lectured no matter when. Don’t follow your own desires and do things, Uncle Masato?” 

Still discharging her annoyances, Ayano faced that guy —— the younger brother of the Yuuki family head, complaining to Masato.
“Because he is the suzerain, he cannot mull over such minor issues.”
In this manner on Masato’s thin face appeared a smile and laughter. As a member of the branch families, he certainly wasn’t thinking about the consequences. But, it seems like Ayano hasn’t really noticed or cared.

This man——Oogami Masato, although possessing a strength greater than his older brother, disliked scheming for the position of family head, so went off to Tibet to train like a eccentric person.

When he returned to Japan he was given the “Protect Ayano” mission. Juugo has a high regard of him, and from the first time Ayano went on a mission he continually was responsible for this kind of protecting job.

Certainly, Ayano also has good feelings about this easy-going relative. Due to the surrounding people’s princess like treatment of her, faced with Masato’s kind of causal attitude is quite refreshing for her, furthermore it feels very good.

Consequently “Uncle Masato, ojo-sama this kind of terminology, is like a real family without any separation.

“Maybe it is to allow the younger jutsu practitioner to learn, this kind of reasoning is still possible. Isn’t that, Takeshi… Takeshi?”

“Ahh, Yes!?”

The young jutsu practitioner using admiring eyes staring at Ayano —— Oogami Takeshi’s uncle hollered many times before he finally paid attention.

“Did you not hear… Stopping staring stupidly at Ojo-sama, be prepared, it is not known when the seal will be released.”
“Yes, I have understood! Just like what Uncle have said! To be allowed to watch Ayano-sama striking fighting method is really a great honor!”

In order to not screw-up in front of Ayano, Takeshi uselessly shouts in a loud voice. In that stare at Ayano, appears compared to respect, has more admiration and reverence. For Takeshi’s generation of jutsu practitioners, Ayano has existence of a goddess. Hoping to watch her striking manner from close by guarding is something everyone will accept.

“Yes——It’s——like——this?”
“Yes, it’s like that!”

The exhilaration to be able to talk to Ayano is something seen through Takeshi’s entire body language. Of course, Ayano doesn’t like being seen like that. Seems like herself is being separated from being “normal”, changed to something she can’t wait.

No matter what, no matter how it is explained is useless. That’s only Takeshi’s simple, compared to himself much stronger and beautiful existence, means of showing deference.

“Ah, forget it. … It’s about time.”

Ayano sensing the expanding ki of the youma, relaxingly turns herself towards the main hall. Mini-skirt starting to flutter and dance.

Now recalling, why would Ayano be wearing her high school uniform.

This is not only to allow her to normally attend a high school.

Because if you think about it, the best suited outfit for a high school student is the uniform. So Juugo, especially focused on this point, used within his the range of abilities added the best class of defensive spells.

The material, in order to allow better transpiration, was the best type of silk. That is during the process of fabrication air is mixed in, furthermore everything is made from expensive materials.

A result by inputting great amounts of money and time, a high school uniform; it is not wrong to say that it is a work of art. Its cost could be comparable. It could be said that is enough to buy a car, no, not really, correctly said it can buy a luxury house without being wrong.

Of course Ayano pays attention to this outfit —— not towards its capabilities —— because it is a gift given by her father —— so she frequently wears this outfit in combat.

Wearing this outfit that can be said as the world’s most expensive combat outfit, protecting Ayano, watching as the seal is about to be broken, took a deep breath, then moving and warming-up her own inner strength.

Pah!

The clear sound of clapping starts to vibrate the space. When the two close palms were opened, in between the two palms appears a flaming line. Then Ayano grasp it with her right hand, making a horizontal outwards swinging motion.

The around 1 meter burning line, at that instance materializes, a crimson red sword.

This is a no blunt side, having two edges bright crimson red sword. The [body] of the sword is surrounded by a golden flame, releasing vivid beauty of a light. Just like that, as beautiful as one will imagine. 

That sword is the Kannagi Clan’s supreme treasure, Enraiha. That is Kannagi Clan founder, [huh], rewarded by King of the Flame Spirits passed down defeating devils/evil of treasured sword. '''!'''

Ayano lifts upwards the Enraiha, then adds her left hand to grasp the sword making a downward stroke. Along the path of the stroke, appear spreading golden pieces. Then instantly and prettily stopping the sword before her eyes, no matter if it is done ten-thousands times or hundred thousand times, it is a beautiful motion that can be forgiven.

A vase that has already approached its limits, with a “pong” bursts open. Even faster than the falling pieces, a white light shoots towards Ayano.

Ayano from the front makes a downward stroke with Enraiha, and then goes forward to attack. Attacking that white object that produces a sound “like the sound produce when the water is evaporated by a flat frying pan”.

“Sticky stuff…!?” 
Ayano faced with the string that was smashed by her and said mumbling.
Then changed her vision to the inside of the main hall, there was a few points like something like lights. That thing slowly moves forward, and then reveals its own appearance.

“Wah…”

Ayano inadvertently surprised, that thing that appeared is ——

Having multiple eyes, beyond eight feet, the entire body covered with dirty yet rigid fur, a segmented animal producing sounds, “kulah, kulah”, as its legs moved. When you see its full appearance, no matter whom, will feel shivers not due to cold. Really is a horrify spider freak.

“Earth Spider huh... Need help?”

“Not necessary”

Ayano immediately replies. Even though it produces a very disgusting feeling, but now is not the time for complaints. Seems like she’s more afraid of disappointing her oto-san, compared to that, fighting against spiders or cockroaches is nothing in comparison.

(Come here…)

Summoning fire spirits do not need chants and such. As if following Ayano’s thinking, fire spirits itself assemble, flying into Enraiha. Along the sword blade the flame, the light transformed to even brighter.

With the range that’s reachable by her awareness, Ayano continuously summoning spirits. Juugo don’t know how many times instructed her many times, don’t be like other jutsu practitioners, it is not commanding the spirits, you can’t be too arrogant.

“They and we have same level of existence.” 

This saying is frequently repeated by Juugo, spirits are the means to safeguard the existence of the world’s order. Because the Kannagi Clan have contract with the spirit king, therefore the spirits are only helpers.

Of course Ayano also understands, her own strength is borrowed. Only to seal or vanquish the inconsistencies in the world’s order that the power is gifted for a short period of time.

That’s why it isn’t ordering them. Because knowing such matters are not necessary. If the known the correct way of thinking, fire spirits will certainly answer.

Like having respect for the world, it’s not in order to obtain huge powers and being arrogant, Ayano no matter when always calls like this: “Please, lend me your strength….”

“V… Very formidable….”

Takeshi watches dumbfounded, this enormous number of spirits gathering on Ayano’s body, the amount of spirits he can manage is only one small portion of this in comparison. For him it’s the first time seeing the main family’s power, the difference is between the sky and the ground.

“Ah, formidable, right!?”

Just like show off his own condition, Masato said smiling.

“Even though we recently said it, no matter how hard we work, we won’t be able to reach such levels.”

Already forgotten his uncle’s reply, Takeshi one again looks at Ayano.

Ayano holding the Enraiha, continues to confront the earth spider.

(What should be done… looks like can’t get close…)

Even though enough spirits are already summoned to destroy the earth spider, but given this long distance really don’t have the confidence. Even though Enraiha is an ancient sword for [summoning], but to using a sword it is necessary to employ it to its fullest potential.

In other words get close, from a close distance to puncture or split the earth spider, then from inside its body burn it completely.

(Of course if that was done, certainly from the cut’s aperture will fly out adhesive matter… after the explosion fragments will all fly towards the body… if it’s female, after opening its skin, there might be hundreds of spiders coming out… No———!)

Just thinking about it makes the hairs stand, inside Ayano starts complaining bitter. If Takeshi could read Ayano’s inner thoughts then, maybe the thoughts of reverence might be corrected can even be said. 

The earth spider seems to capture the currently mulling Ayano’s openings; “palapala” using the long legs changed his body moving forwards.

“You want to escape!?”

Suddenly towards the chasing Ayano, from the tail spits out white silk, at the same time Ayano pulls up Enraiha to face it.

From Enraiha emerges an golden flame, even though it burned the spider’s web, but because of the blockage by the silk, Ayano still could not get close to the earth spider.

Then Ayano only could stop, focus her mind. Then she took a deep breath tuning her ki, calmed down.

(This kind of things can’t do any kind of obstruction, kill it in couple seconds.)

Then bringing up the Enraiha, then with her full strength performed a downwards swing. Golden Flame ——the highest level of fire of purification, not only completely burned the earth spider’s web, then closed-in directly at the earth spider itself.

Pong!!

With the sounds of explosion, the in the explosion earth spider is surrounded by flames.

“Got…Gotcha…?”

But as Ayano dubiously mumbles while looking into the flames, appearing into her vision was only a white cocoon-like object. What really surprised Ayano, the “pishpiish” sound that splits open.

Pang!

Just like a thin layer of glass shattering, from the middle the cocoon splits open, that earth spider completely without harm again appears.

Probably the web contained some special component that could block spiritual energies, then using that covering its body to hide, avoiding the purifying powers to be completely purified.

“It’s, it’s quite formidable, hu…”

Ayano said using a sing-song voice. At first glance seems very calm, but carefully studying will discover her “sun-vein”  has already risen.

Even though this was not a full strength strike, but was completely deflected, Ayano’s self-confidence certainly was hurting a lot.

“Only a little bug don’t be so haughty ——!!”

Resonating Ayano’s anger, an even greater amount of fire spirits was gathered, even though there is no materialization, but in the vicinity, already gathered the equal spirits to a volcano opening.

“Then… regretting it now?”

Accompanying anger, Ayano already entered selfless state. Composure has completely been commanded by anger, and then transformed into strength.

Continously summoning stronger, even stronger spirits. This time it isn’t directed releasing towards one area, but given immovable strength of mind, at the same time directly releasing in one direction. 

This time Ayano holds Enraiha in a direction perpendicular to her body, then seriously chasing it, took a deep breath, then with sharp kiai releasing it.

“Haa!!”

At that instance, the flame flew into the earth spider’s body. Then the abdomen expanded and exploded, changed it into a miniature torch.

In this seemly small torch, can be described as gathering the entire area’s fire spirits. The explosion of the fireball became even bigger, this time the earth spider is certainly transformed to ashes.

Afterwards nothing was left, spider’s body pieces and the youma spirit around was completed purified. Right now, the temple where the youma was vanquished was full on a “special air” that only temples have.

If attacking from the outside can be defended, then simply attack from the inside. Even though describing is easy, to actually do it is close to something impossible.

This is like what the world’s own close relationship with the spirits. That’s right, like the life force/life activity of living beings.

In the body living beings that have water, cannot be uninfluenced by the water spirits, and those living beings that have heat, within the body resides fire spirits.

For example, just like the youma, even though it materializes, it can’t escape this rule.

In ordinary circumstances, to control the spirit residing within the body is impossible.

These kind of infinitely close to a living beings’ survival instinct involves enormous willpower, the origin of life can be said to not allow anyone to control.

Even for a genius, can’t control it so easily according to one’s likings. But, in this world, no matter when there are people entire day saying “logical boundaries” foolish and sad humans.

“Heh. It’s this kind of thing.”

Ayano releasing a pleasing smile, turn around in order to go back.

“Then, let’s go!...”

During this dialogue that couldn’t continue, Ayano stupidly stares at the two’s body language. Probably the bigger body is Masato, on his left is Takeshi. From the clothes it should be right.

But——

(How come there’s no head…?)

These two guys, the taller one both hands still in the pockets, the other one seems not able to control his exhilaration, in front of his chest holding a fist, standing naturally.

When you look at it and there’s no head, doesn’t seem like an odd situation.

So Ayano looks toward the ground, there is two round objects entering her eyes. Ayano stumbling, seems like about to fall, close in and kneeled, then lifted it onto her knees. Even though it’s quite heavy, but as Ayano smelled the odor of the guy that she really liked, smiled. Ayano, from very young fought together, taught her the ways of survival/existence, hugged the head. Quietly mumbles.

“Uncle… head… fell down… uh…’

On Ayano appears sad smile, and then tries to put Masato’s head back on. Although thinking by doing this, he will return to life, stubbornly forcing the head back in.

Like mocking Ayano this kind of useless actions, hidden an unseen sword blade, lightly carves Masato’s body. In one second, this big body was separated into hundreds or even thousands slices of meat.

Because the heart has stopped pumping a while ago, so the fresh blood did not fly out from the sharp cuts.

But, although there is no sound of blood flow, nor the sounds of flesh breaking, still abnormally gives a person a feeling of reality.

Under the blowing of the wind, Masato’s body without sound was taken apart. Like gone through a paper shredder the pieces of meat, like flower petals dancing in the sky.

In the instance of the image, Ayano watched as if frozen.

Drop.

Accompaning the like water droplet sound something drops on the face, Ayano unconsciously tries to remove it.

That is a bright red piece, still has some remaining warmth of a meat slice. When understood what is carried on here fingers, Ayano’s consciousness seem to be passed through a filter, small amount of recovering.

“No.”

That is once a part belonging on Masato’s body. But those miserable remains no longer can be described as a corpse.

“Don’t want!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

At this moment, Ayano screams as far as can be heard.

“Kukuku—————“

That sound, even though it can vibrate the air, this snigger sound, it wasn’t directly sent into the brain. If you want to describe it, accompany this “snigger” are the strong feelings. This kind of derision towards one opponent’s “awareness”, seems like it provoked Ayano, it’s just that annoying.

Faced with situation of the appearance of the enemy, normally frequently training the body and the spirit, Ayano, instantly enters fighting mode.

Then burying deep within the feelings of anguish, substituting a feeling of animation and anticipation.

Changing the arrowhead of the anger towards the opponent, and especially challenging the opponent.

“Come out!”

Already surpassing the limits of anger, on the face of humans that already cannot be expressed. But Ayano seems to determine it can, looks upwards.

There exists ''that thing''. In the front on a branch where a huge tree stands a human shadow completely not fearing dangers, right hand in the pockets of his clothing.

Because that is place of little light, was not able to clearly see the opponents face, but it doesn’t really matter anymore. The out flowing evil ki already told her “This is the enemy.”

Ayano silently swings Enraiha upwards.

There is no need to know who, nor the need to accumulate strength. Only calmly mix in the killing intention, and then kill it with one blow. This kind of sharpened killing intention transformed into flaming sword blade running upwards.

Lightly, clearing moving without regards to weight, that thing avoids the flaming sword blade. Then flies onto the roof, then a leap. Afterwards, again looks towards Ayano, ''that thing'' slowly moves the body. Seems to say chase away.

This is clearly a luring kind of motion; Ayano bravely accepts this kind of provocation.

(Even it is a trap still no matter, will absolutely annihilate you.)

Deep within submitting to such type of anger, Ayano already change into a rampage only for revenge.

=== 4 ===
In the sky suddenly appears ki of youma.

“Hmm…”

Kazuma suddenly looks towards the sky, it seems like in order for the strength to not spread, it is gathering bit by bit in the sky. Suddenly a wind blade flashes, there really is no time to even defend, and even flying backwards to escape took the full effort.

The wind blade passes right by the still rolling Kazuma, then slightly corrects its angle, with one stroke separated into two pieces the Fuuga practitioner, Shingo, Takeya the three of them.

“Wait, Wait a second!!”

Kazuma without thinking yelled, this would changed the situation into something unthought-of.

(I, I was actually ambushed?)

To face an ambush situation, actually is first time this had happened. Further, it was an ambush by a wind spirit? No matter who had summoned it, gathering this degree of wind spirit, it is impossible that Kazuma didn’t feel it. No matter how great of a fuujutsu-shi, using fuu-jutsu cannot deceive Kazuma. This question is not simply the difference in distance in abilities, but the rules are simply that this.

But, now occurred an impossible situation. Kazuma immediately broke off his thoughts, focus towards the thing in the sky.

“What’s… that thing...?”

Really small, maybe a thing smaller than 20 mm, was floating in the sky about 20-30 meters above. Nearby five risen things fly out.

“One’s hand…? Doesn’t seem so, red leaf…?

No matter how you look it doesn’t seem like it’s flying in the sky, it’s not controlling the wind. In a questioning look, suddenly Kazuma discovers what that thing really is.

It’s a human hand. A strange human hand is flying in the sky. Even recognizing it doesn’t solve anything, still can’t change that 3 people have been killed.

(Anyway, first let’s defeat it!)

Using only a voice that can be hear by himself mumbles, what looks like a hand flies into the upper sky —— then disappears.

“Wait! What are you actually thinking!?”

Kazuma then protested towards the wind spirit, this is clearly against the agreement. But, the spirit only has uncertain sound, and couldn’t tell Kazuma the actual place of the disappeared hand.

“What is going on…”

The miserable condition in front of his eyes —— the divided into two portion Fuuga practitioner and the separated corpses of Shingo and Takeya —— if like this, it seems just like it was done by Kazuma.

Spirit disobeyed the covenant? —— impossible.

To Kazuma, if he heard this kind of situation from someone else, would be quite skeptical of the correct mindset of the opponent. That’s why what just happened is a very irregular situation. 

Spirit does have cognizant qualities. [Original Rules] —— it’s when the world was first created, don’t know by whom, towards this existential world created immutable laws—— and to obey it, allowing this world to remain this kind of shape and reality. Just like the bees have to live in a beehive, just like one part of itself recognizes him, one part even though it has intelligence is still impossible that it thinks. Of course, it’s impossible for it to have the type of free will to break a covenant.

If the spirits had the free will to move about, then the laws of science will be broken. The world will be destroyed within 3 days.

All the wind spirits will obey Kazuma. [What belongs to Him] This kind of covenant certainly reflects this kind of meaning. For example—— 
“That’s impossible…”

Kazuma thinking of the worst scenario, weakly sighs saying.

(There’s someone like me? No way…)

Just thinking about it brings shivers not from cold, but it can’t be said as good luck —— no matter what, Kazuma doesn’t want to think that—— but right now it’s not the best time to stop and think.

Because he sensed a huge fire spirits coming towards here.

(This time even Infrit has come? Crap, when has Japan become world of youma!? Note: Infrit is the name of fire god.)

Even before finishing talking, appeared a situation that Kazuma could not have predicted.

Appearing is a shoujo. Accompanying the red fire and eyes where resides that hatred-filled fire, holding in the right hand accumulated power is ——

“Kazuma —— !!”

The strength of the fire spirits gathered in the right hand has already crystallized. Ayano seems to in that instance made up her mind.

Chop!!

Entering the rapidly retreating Kazuma’s eyes is, Ayano swings the red sword. For his clan, more important compared to everything else. Also the thing that made his life very chaotic.

Kazuma, when faced with the godly sword no matter what would like to escape, sees this, yells.

“Enraiha !? Are you, Ayano!”

Only answer is a sword flash from the Enraiha, faced with filled with killing intent and not listening to anything Ayano, tries really hard to explain.

“Hey, hey wait a moment, misunderstanding! Wasn’t killed by me… hey, you should listen to what other people are saying!”

Flaming white fireballs continuously approaching, Kazuma continuously dodging and saying, but Ayano seems like completely not hearing it.

Because the esteemed Masato got killed, Ayano is already too angry and has already forgotten herself. Really have no time to listen to people talking. Furthermore, given what her oto-san told her that this is guy is quite suspicious.

Dang!!

“Hey!!!”

Believing already evading the fireball suddenly together it explodes, then blocking Kazuma’s retreat. Then noticed, Ayano using the explosion time sealing off the way, appears in front of his eyes swinging the Enraiha.

“Uncle’s revenge !!”

“!!”

That motion a two part strike which wants to split Kazuma like a bamboo, escapes by shifting his body sideways, then from the top using his palm pressuring the sword handle. Facing Ayano who’s with fiery anger, face filling with blood yells.

“Oto-san —— Genma died?”

But before finishing saying such, figured out there was a mistake, even though Ayano and Genma’s relationship isn’t so bad that it can been seen from the outside, certainly if Genma were to die, Ayano would not be getting revenge for him.

A person appears in his head, a man, “uncle”, from the Oogami family that Ayano is very close to.

The name probably was —— like !!

“—— pong” 

Suddenly Ayano butted her head upwards, and then heavily hit his chin. Because of his pondering, his reflexes are slower, even though it was quickly evaded, but still the hit caused his head to be dizzy and painful.

Even though dizzy, but he still calmly asked.

“Oogami Masato died?

But Ayano faced became even more somber, further forcefully focus more strength into the Enraiha in her hand, from a distance it can be clearly seen.

(Seems like the opposite effect is done…)

Shruggin his shoulders, faced with a person filled with anger, having no more questions to ask. Faced with this confused by anger little girl no matter what is done is useless.

But, she can’t be killed. If he hurt her, probably the fool’s father, Juugo, would completely recognize him as an enemy. This needs to be avoided. 

This is not because he fears Juugo, who is the Kannagi clan’s historically strongest jutsu practitioner. But it is because as “Kannagi Kazuma”, Juugo can be said to be his only friend. In order not to not create sorrow to him, so there is only one method.

“Ah—— Ayano-chan? I’m —— leaving then, the issue with cleaning up the corpses will be left to you. Then see-ya.”

Prettily avoiding the completely tenacious approaching flames, Kazuma decides to escape.

“——Wait, Wait a second!”

Kazuma with his back towards Ayano who wants to stop him leaps up, then surrounded by wind flying upwards about 10 meters, then suddenly disappears.

“What—— where at?”

Right on top of, the still looking around, Kazuma floats along.

Employing the air to change the reflection rate of light, becoming see-through just like wearing a transparent robe. If look closely one can see the parts where there’s waves created by high heat, but for Ayano, who is being controlled by anger and has forgotten herself, she didn’t noticed.

But Kazuma didn’t take pleasure in watching the troubled Ayano, but was thinking about what to do later on.

What is realizable now is that the guilty person who killed Shingo and Takeya no matter how you described it is Kazuma, furthermore also killing Oogami Masato.

(They want to enter complete war with the Kannagi clan? If that’s the case it might be quite interesting, allows people to get excited… then, how will it progress?)

hehe, hmmhmmhmm.

Kazuma burst out laughing. Kannagi clan and the mysterious fuujutsu-shi, two strong things already assaulting his life, of course Kazuma cannot ignore this.

Talk:Interview with Tanigawa Nagaru

2007-05-18T06:52:27Z

Kwok: suggestions

''--Suzumiya Haruhi ,the craziest girl in school, who made a blowed-away introduction on the first day of high school life.''

to try and make 'blowed-away' sound more fluent, how about:

1. blowaway (no such word, but think Doublespeak)

2. 'who blew everyone away with her self-introduction on the first day of her high school life'

3. something else

(* the original word, [http://dictionary.goo.ne.jp/search.php?MT=%A4%D6%A4%C3%A4%C8%A4%D6&search_history=&kind=&kwassist=0&jn.x=56&jn.y=14&jn=%B9%F1%B8%EC&mode=0 'ぶっ飛んだ'], means to fly forcefully (or something)]

also suggests that 'the craziest girl in school' be changed to 'said to be the craziest girl in school'. I wanted to change it, then saw that discussions are encouraged beforehand, thus.

Interview with Tanigawa Nagaru

2007-05-18T06:42:29Z

Kwok: /* The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi by Tanigawa Nagaru (Published in June, 2003) */

This is a translation of an interview with Tanigawa Nagaru (the author of the Suzumiya Haruhi series) on Yahoo! Books in 2006.

You can read the original [http://books.yahoo.co.jp/interview/detail/31131493/01.html here] (written in Japanese)

'''If you find any mistakes(Engrish, mistranslations, misspelling, grammatical errors...), please feel free to correct the mistakes.(beforehand discussing is recommended)'''

== Tanigawa Nagaru ==

=== Profile ===

Currently living in Hyogo prefecture, Japan.

Debuted as a writer in 2003 with a grand prize of the 8th Kadokawa Sneakers Grand Prix.

The latest volume of Suzuhiya Haruhi series is currently Vol.8 "The Indignation of Suzumiya Haruhi".

His other works -- "Gakkou wo Deyou!" series, "Boku no Sekai wo Mamoru Hito" series, "Dengeki!! Aegis5" series, "Zetuboukei Tojirareta Sekai" are also published from Dengeki Bunko.

His hobbies include riding his motorcycle and playing mah-jong.

== The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi by Tanigawa Nagaru (Published in June, 2003) ==
"Normal humans don't interest me. If anyone here is an alien, a time traveler, slider, or an esper, then come find me! That is all."

--Suzumiya Haruhi ,the craziest girl in school, who made a blowed-away introduction on the first day of high school life.

The story describes fusses happen around the SOS-dan(Sekai wo Ooi ni moriagerutameno Suzumiya Haruhi no Dan), a brigade established by her.

The series, started with "The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi", sold over 2.8 million in total, expanding its fan base rapidly after it was made into an anime.

Its popularity keeps growing.
The story contains SF, misteries, cosplay, etc...

I interviewed Mr. Tanigawa Nagaru, the author, about this school-life story -- the story that blurs the definition of ordinariness and extraordinariness.

(Aug 16. 2006)

== Interview ==

'''Q: First of all, how did you start to pursue a literary career?'''

'''Tanigawa Nagaru:''' I had wanted to write novels for many years, rather than to be a author. I think it's because some "I wanna write novels by myself" neural networks were gradually established in my brain while I read various kinds of novels in my childhood. I still don't know if I'm a writer or whatever.

'''Q: You actually became a writer and your works have gained popularity so much as becoming a social phenomenon. Your lifestyle has changed?'''

'''Nagaru:''' I don't know much about the phenomenon, but my lifestyle hasn't changed at all. For now, I'd like to repair my day-and-night reversed life.

'''Q: Why did you think to write light novels?'''

'''Nagaru:''' Since I don't have a fine understanding about the word "light novel", I don't know whether what I write is a light novel or not, but I think I write novels for myself of my middle and high school days. I'm not sure if that myself might think they are fun, however.

'''Q: In another interview, you said "Basically I feel like I'm writing a 'plastic' youth novel, in which characters are not honest to their own feelings." That was impressive for me. For you, Mr.Tanigawa, what is an "orthodox" youth novel like?'''

'''Nagaru:''' A boy meets a girl and they farewell. And the boy and the girl meet again....That's all that I can say to express my concept of the orthodox youth novel. In one sentence, it is like a story of a pair of boy and girl meets each other somewhere once again after they met and parted, I think.

'''Q: I think Suzumiya Haruhi series is basically "a boy meets a girl" story. (TL Note: it's not "a boy-meets-girl story". This series is no typical romance story.) But why are the characters in the series not honest? '''

'''Nagaru:''' I didn't intend to describe them in that way. But while writing unconsciously, perhaps I (unconsciously again) think uncompliant characters make more conflictions and disagreements of their opinion and that makes the story easier to develop.

'''Q: When and how the typical uncompliant character, Suzumiya Haruhi, was born?'''

'''Nagaru:''' I can't remember at all. She had already existed in my head when I noticed. In a sleepless night at the beginning of the 21th century, the idea seemed to have came down from heaven into my head at the moment i rolled over in bed.

'''Q: Haruhi hates boredom the most of all and seek "extraordinariness" in school life. And the one who is always at her beck and call is the narrator of this story, Kyon. He is an ordinary boy with no particular feature, whose name is not even revealed. What do you think about him?'''

'''Nagaru:''' Though I could give him a decent name, i thought it feels stupid and funny that he is called in that queer nickname from beginning to end. As to feature, I originally planned he would be an esper, but while writing the Prologue, I had subconsciously turned him into an common person. And you said he is an ordinary boy, but I think, in a sense, he is not an ordinary boy, such as his way of thinking.

'''Q: For example, what in his way of thinking is unusual?'''

'''Nagaru:''' In a sense he considers philosophically though he is a first-year student of high school. And while he quibbles and complains, his actions aren't consistent with the mind. Perhaps he may be more uncompliant than Haruhi.--After all, he is an opposite person.

----
''50% Completed''

Interview with Tanigawa Nagaru

2007-05-18T06:39:25Z

Kwok: made grammar edits to help the English flow.

This is a translation of an interview with Tanigawa Nagaru (the author of the Suzumiya Haruhi series) on Yahoo! Books in 2006.

You can read the original [http://books.yahoo.co.jp/interview/detail/31131493/01.html here] (written in Japanese)

'''If you find any mistakes(Engrish, mistranslations, misspelling, grammatical errors...), please feel free to correct the mistakes.(beforehand discussing is recommended)'''

== Tanigawa Nagaru ==

=== Profile ===

Currently living in Hyogo prefecture, Japan.

Debuted as a writer in 2003 with a grand prize of the 8th Kadokawa Sneakers Grand Prix.

The latest volume of Suzuhiya Haruhi series is currently Vol.8 "The Indignation of Suzumiya Haruhi".

His other works -- "Gakkou wo Deyou!" series, "Boku no Sekai wo Mamoru Hito" series, "Dengeki!! Aegis5" series, "Zetuboukei Tojirareta Sekai" are also published from Dengeki Bunko.

His hobbies include riding his motorcycle and playing mah-jong.

== The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi by Tanigawa Nagaru (Published in June, 2003) ==
"Normal humans don't interest me. If anyone here is an alien, a time traveler, slider, or an esper, then come find me! That is all."

--Suzumiya Haruhi ,the craziest girl in school, who made a blowed-away introduction on the first day of high school life.

The story describes fusses happen around the SOS-dan(Sekai wo Ooi ni moriagerutameno Suzumiya Haruhi no Dan), a brigade established by her.

The series, started with "The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi", sold over 2.8 million in total, expanding its fan base rapidly after made into anime.

Its populaity keeps growing.
The story contains SF, misteries, cosplay, etc...

I interviewed Mr. Tanigawa Nagaru, the author, about this school-life story -- the story that blurs the definition of ordinariness and extraordinariness.

(Aug 16. 2006)

== Interview ==

'''Q: First of all, how did you start to pursue a literary career?'''

'''Tanigawa Nagaru:''' I had wanted to write novels for many years, rather than to be a author. I think it's because some "I wanna write novels by myself" neural networks were gradually established in my brain while I read various kinds of novels in my childhood. I still don't know if I'm a writer or whatever.

'''Q: You actually became a writer and your works have gained popularity so much as becoming a social phenomenon. Your lifestyle has changed?'''

'''Nagaru:''' I don't know much about the phenomenon, but my lifestyle hasn't changed at all. For now, I'd like to repair my day-and-night reversed life.

'''Q: Why did you think to write light novels?'''

'''Nagaru:''' Since I don't have a fine understanding about the word "light novel", I don't know whether what I write is a light novel or not, but I think I write novels for myself of my middle and high school days. I'm not sure if that myself might think they are fun, however.

'''Q: In another interview, you said "Basically I feel like I'm writing a 'plastic' youth novel, in which characters are not honest to their own feelings." That was impressive for me. For you, Mr.Tanigawa, what is an "orthodox" youth novel like?'''

'''Nagaru:''' A boy meets a girl and they farewell. And the boy and the girl meet again....That's all that I can say to express my concept of the orthodox youth novel. In one sentence, it is like a story of a pair of boy and girl meets each other somewhere once again after they met and parted, I think.

'''Q: I think Suzumiya Haruhi series is basically "a boy meets a girl" story. (TL Note: it's not "a boy-meets-girl story". This series is no typical romance story.) But why are the characters in the series not honest? '''

'''Nagaru:''' I didn't intend to describe them in that way. But while writing unconsciously, perhaps I (unconsciously again) think uncompliant characters make more conflictions and disagreements of their opinion and that makes the story easier to develop.

'''Q: When and how the typical uncompliant character, Suzumiya Haruhi, was born?'''

'''Nagaru:''' I can't remember at all. She had already existed in my head when I noticed. In a sleepless night at the beginning of the 21th century, the idea seemed to have came down from heaven into my head at the moment i rolled over in bed.

'''Q: Haruhi hates boredom the most of all and seek "extraordinariness" in school life. And the one who is always at her beck and call is the narrator of this story, Kyon. He is an ordinary boy with no particular feature, whose name is not even revealed. What do you think about him?'''

'''Nagaru:''' Though I could give him a decent name, i thought it feels stupid and funny that he is called in that queer nickname from beginning to end. As to feature, I originally planned he would be an esper, but while writing the Prologue, I had subconsciously turned him into an common person. And you said he is an ordinary boy, but I think, in a sense, he is not an ordinary boy, such as his way of thinking.

'''Q: For example, what in his way of thinking is unusual?'''

'''Nagaru:''' In a sense he considers philosophically though he is a first-year student of high school. And while he quibbles and complains, his actions aren't consistent with the mind. Perhaps he may be more uncompliant than Haruhi.--After all, he is an opposite person.

----
''50% Completed''

Talk:Clannad:Guidelines

2007-05-11T07:10:35Z

Kwok: /* 創立者祭 */

== Digits, Interjections, thinking words, shouts/screams and action words ==
I would like to clarify on some of the translation guidelines.

Firstly, do we substitute Arabic numerals on the original text for half-width digits (e.g. 20) or their English equivalents (Twenty)? If it had not been decided, I would suggest that we stick to digits for convention, clarity and conciseness. For kanji numerals, I'd rather we use English words.

In the translations I have seen, interjections were mostly substituted beautifully, but there were several crude ones, and some of those were translated in other ways for other scenarios.

May I suggest to translators and editors:

あの, ano -> Um

え, e -> Eh (repeated えs would be Eeeeh etc.)

ああ, aa -> Ya / K' / Yea / Aah (depending on context)

あ, a -> Ah

えっと, etto -> Erm / Err

っ, 'sokuon' -> ' (e.g. 「えっ？」 -> "Eh'?" , but only when the situation allows) (refer to the Yorkshire accent part on glottal stops in Wikipedia [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glottal_stop])

For those at the end of sentences:

よ, ね, な, ぞ etc. -> huh / not? / (nothing, for when it is an integral part of the sentence, i.e. sounds awkward without it) / reflected in the sentence as

だろう, だろ -> I wonder / I guess / right? / not? / probably / it is probable

I believe the rest have more obvious equivalents in English, and won't have much trouble integrating.

In the topic of screams, as they usually hold no meaning, might I suggest substituting them word for word (Hepburn romanization with kana spelling) with the ー, chouon substituted for a dash, small vowels as their english equivalent (I have thought of substituting large vowels with caps, but wouldn't it lose some aesthetic quality?) and っ with a 'h' where aesthetic standards allow.

For action words that occupy a single line, may I suggest the format as per in the following example, :''もぐもぐ… *mogu mogu, munch munch''

I used the above format for action words in sentences like じっと、そこを見た during my translation draft (which was only at its third day as per this project's founding, despite that I started it near the end of December). However, I find it sloppy when nested in sentences, and I guess it also breaks the flow of the script. Please criticize this suggestions mercilessly.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:34, 6 February 2007 (PST)

: I agree with most of the conventions used above, albeit with a few minor changes:
: - 'mogu mogu' should just be 'munch, munch'
: - IRJustman and I would like to go with using just words for numbers (e.g., five), unless it comes to maybe 10-yen coins. Not like someone can say "one million yen", right, as opposed to "1,000,000 yen"?
: - screams we'll have to think about, it's kind of hard to romanize say, Sunohara's ひぃぃぃぃぃぃ！！
: - most of the stuff above is freeform, so like you said, will depend on context.
: [[User:Velocity7|velocity7]] 10:09, 6 February 2007 (EST)

: Ditto with velocity7. But I think the interjection translations should be guidelines; translators should retain free rein in using alternatives to naturalise/normalise the speech. Same goes for wild random screaming, this should be translator's call?
: More importantly, characters need to sound consistent throughout the game. Either this should be handled by QC, or translators can route-specialise. Or something; i'm new to this game.
: American English, or British English?
: --[[User:Kwok|Kwok]] 05:40, 13 February 2007 (PST)

== Naming ==
May I suggest adding a Female Youth name as a translation for 少女, shoujo, as a name title especially for the first Kotomi scene. At that first meeting, Tomoya was not too fond of her, hence the more formal name (albeit more conventional, in my opinion), even though name titles are not actually supposed to reflect relations.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:34, 6 February 2007 (PST)

I'm inclined to follow your suggestion too, but will there be space constraints? Also, 'Female Youth' sounds rather detached and unemotional for a guy's thoughts, so would 'Girl' be simpler and sweeter? It's more casual and normalise the scenario that way. Same for shounen; we could call them "Guy".--[[User:Kwok|Kwok]] 05:29, 13 February 2007 (PST)

A bit of trouble with the main arc. Tomoya often refers to Akio as オッサン. Would that be 'Uncle'?--[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 01:46, 4 May 2007 (PDT)

== Punctuation and General Typography ==

In the guidelines page, ellipses were written as '...' (3 periods). However, there exists a special character for groups of 3 ellipses, '…'. This character is also used in the game text. Unless it is due to technical restrictions(which I doubt there is), the second ellipse should be used. That is to distinguish the ellipses from the period following, as per The Chicago Manual of Style[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E2%80%A6]. Yes, a period is required after ellipses when writing in English. I would not recommend using a program to substitute periods for this character after translating for fear that it might make some unwanted changes in the text.

There are also other things to take note of. The hyphen at your keyboard is only for hyphens. For dashes, use the following

For a limited range, e.g. '07–15' (haven't encountered any), or prefixing a term e.g. 'pre–World War II', use an en dash '–' (XP users: Alt+0150)

For an open range, e.g. 'Saturday—' an em dash '—'(XP users: Alt+0151)

A word that is cut off halfway (say, when some interrupts your conversation) is denoted by a character more commonly seen in Unicode art (well, it sure isn't ASCII, and it's not Shift-JIS)(part of the box drawing character set). It seems like Key used that character as it did not have gaps when placed consequentially. Long lines are usually multiples of this character too. I would recommend using the horizontal bar '―' (U+2013; ampersand, hash, 8213, semicolon), as it also joins with another itself.

As stated in the previous topic, the chouon is used for creative purposes in shouts and yells. The em dash is an excellent substitution for it.

The full width tilde '～' is used in several instances, like ぐっ～～. Seems like Key used it instead of the more politically correct wave symbol '〜' (they probably didn't know of it's existence). Both are in East Asian character sets. I can't find of any non-Asian character that imitates the full width tilde satisfactorily. Maybe we should default to half width tildes?

There is a quotation dash ⁓ (U+2053; ampersand, hash, 8275, semicolon). However, I currently cannot think of any instance it might be required in the script.
[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:05, 13 February 2007 (PST)

:I understand that there is a love for Unicode characters in the script at the moment. However, if you would all please have a look at [http://dev.haeleth.net/rldev/manual.html#htoc26 this website...]
:You'll notice that I am currently using Western encoding to encode the script with rlBabel. At the time of this writing, this is currently the only way to compile the script so that it looks and works fine. In other words, if the character is not supported under CP1251 or ISO-8859-1, it is not very likely to work. This includes all Japanese characters.

:That's the reasoning for my use of "..." at the moment. For all other characters, they will have to be replaced or modified in some way in order to match up with this. I haven't had time to go look back in scripts to fix this, so if you have time, please feel free to fix them.

:--[[User:Velocity7|velocity7]], February 13, 2007, 8:59 AM EST

CP1252 uses the code point 85 for ellipses, which is unassigned in ISO-8859-1. I'm guessing that this was what Haeleth meant by (ISO-8859-1 with extensions). Why not give it a try?

[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 12:37, 13 February 2007 (PST)

== 創立者祭 ==

A couple of possible translations for 創立者祭:[http://www.japanisdoomed.com/2006/10/01/school-festival/][http://web-japan.org/kidsweb/explore/calendar/november/festival.html]
*school festival (impossible due to SEEN2510)
*Founder's Day
*School Anniversary

Any comments? --[[User:Velocity7|velocity7]]

I would pick Founder's Day. --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 00:10, 11 May 2007 (PDT)

Talk:Clannad:Guidelines

2007-05-04T08:46:23Z

Kwok:

User:Kwok

2007-05-02T05:19:50Z

Kwok:

Hello. I'm new here. I'm even newer at using wiki, so please bear with me.
You can find me at lolicontrol. Clannad is awesome.

Kyou is awesome too.

Hello. I am quite sick. I'm not sure when I will get well. Apologies for disappointing everyone. No idea when I will recover either. Oh gods someone give me my own graduation ceremony. --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 22:19, 1 May 2007 (PDT)

Talk:Clannad:SEEN3001

2007-03-18T11:59:44Z

Kwok:

Hello I'm not dead yet. Also, need help. How would you translate 親バカ? --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 03:36, 18 March 2007 (PDT)
* Caring parents? Over-caring powers? Protective parents? Over protective parents? Doting parents? Parents that are really fond of their child? ^_^; It's about parents who love their child above everything. [[User:DGreater1|DGreater1]]
* Hmm thanks I guessed these were the only options too. The thing is that near the end of this script, we have a little pun of sorts with 親バカ and バカ親. I thought 'doting parents', but baka-oya would translate to 'dumb parent'? No idea how to make it work. --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 04:59, 18 March 2007 (PDT)

Talk:Clannad:SEEN3001

2007-03-18T10:36:22Z

Kwok: New page: Hello I'm not dead yet. Also, need help. How would you translate 親バカ? --~~~~

Hello I'm not dead yet. Also, need help. How would you translate 親バカ? --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 03:36, 18 March 2007 (PDT)

Talk:Clannad:SEEN6900

2007-02-15T13:45:16Z

Kwok: /* Translation of 幻想世界 */

== Translation of 幻想世界 ==

As some may already know, 幻想世界 appears in Nagisa's arc as the play, but at the same time it also affects the main character. There are a couple of translations I'd like to propose, if anyone would like to take any shots:
*Illusionary World (default)
*World of Illusion
*Mirage World
*Fake World

: Illusionary World sounds best. I have made slight amendments to the first 50-100 lines or so and added in a bit of what I thought should be better translations; you may wish to make the changes as you see fit.
: --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 05:43, 15 February 2007 (PST)

== A weird blunder ==
(rephrased below as per poster's wish)
[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 05:07, 6 February 2007 (PST)

<0011> I was holding something.

<0012> I pulled it out.

<0013> A hand of pure white.

<0014> It was a girl's hand.

<0015> Ahhh... that's right...

Those who are working on the script, please remember to change this when you convert to present tense. You don't want to kill her just yet ; )

For the moment, leave it alone, for the sake of a good laugh.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 13:44, 6 February 2007 (PST)

Talk:Clannad:SEEN6900

2007-02-15T13:43:44Z

Kwok:

== Translation of 幻想世界 ==

As some may already know, 幻想世界 appears in Nagisa's arc as the play, but at the same time it also affects the main character. There are a couple of translations I'd like to propose, if anyone would like to take any shots:
*Illusionary World (default)
*World of Illusion
*Mirage World
*Fake World

: Illusionary World sounds best. I have made slight amendments and added in a bit of what I thought should be better translations; you may wish to make the changes as you see fit.
: --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 05:43, 15 February 2007 (PST)

== A weird blunder ==
(rephrased below as per poster's wish)
[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 05:07, 6 February 2007 (PST)

<0011> I was holding something.

<0012> I pulled it out.

<0013> A hand of pure white.

<0014> It was a girl's hand.

<0015> Ahhh... that's right...

Those who are working on the script, please remember to change this when you convert to present tense. You don't want to kill her just yet ; )

For the moment, leave it alone, for the sake of a good laugh.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 13:44, 6 February 2007 (PST)

Talk:Clannad:SEEN3422

2007-02-14T13:37:42Z

Kwok:

I realize that 'ボタン' is literally 'Botan,' but I've been translating it as 'Button' as opposed to preserving it because it's cuter and I see no reason to preserve Katakanafied English in an English translation. If a character were named 'Arekusu,' you'd change it to 'Alex,' and I don't see this being any different.
I won't change it back for now, in case this will interfere with the continuity of other SEEN's. If this is not the case, I'll change it back and request using 'Button' in the future. Request input.

: Oh dear, I spent all my life thinking Kyou's pig should be translated as "Button", because there's a scene where when Kyou introduces him to Tomoya, she says "Isn't it a cute name?". I'm quite sure it's Button, and I'm in support of calling ボタン that. --[[User:Kwok|kwok]] 05:37, 14 February 2007 (PST)

Talk:Clannad:Guidelines

2007-02-13T13:40:08Z

Kwok: /* Digits, Interjections, thinking words, shouts/screams and action words */

== Digits, Interjections, thinking words, shouts/screams and action words ==
I would like to clarify on some of the translation guidelines.

Firstly, do we substitute Arabic numerals on the original text for half-width digits (e.g. 20) or their English equivalents (Twenty)? If it had not been decided, I would suggest that we stick to digits for convention, clarity and conciseness. For kanji numerals, I'd rather we use English words.

In the translations I have seen, interjections were mostly substituted beautifully, but there were several crude ones, and some of those were translated in other ways for other scenarios.

May I suggest to translators and editors:

あの, ano -> Um

え, e -> Eh (repeated えs would be Eeeeh etc.)

ああ, aa -> Ya / K' / Yea / Aah (depending on context)

あ, a -> Ah

えっと, etto -> Erm / Err

っ, 'sokuon' -> ' (e.g. 「えっ？」 -> "Eh'?" , but only when the situation allows) (refer to the Yorkshire accent part on glottal stops in Wikipedia [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glottal_stop])

For those at the end of sentences:

よ, ね, な, ぞ etc. -> huh / not? / (nothing, for when it is an integral part of the sentence, i.e. sounds awkward without it) / reflected in the sentence as

だろう, だろ -> I wonder / I guess / right? / not? / probably / it is probable

I believe the rest have more obvious equivalents in English, and won't have much trouble integrating.

In the topic of screams, as they usually hold no meaning, might I suggest substituting them word for word (Hepburn romanization with kana spelling) with the ー, chouon substituted for a dash, small vowels as their english equivalent (I have thought of substituting large vowels with caps, but wouldn't it lose some aesthetic quality?) and っ with a 'h' where aesthetic standards allow.

For action words that occupy a single line, may I suggest the format as per in the following example, :''もぐもぐ… *mogu mogu, munch munch''

I used the above format for action words in sentences like じっと、そこを見た during my translation draft (which was only at its third day as per this project's founding, despite that I started it near the end of December). However, I find it sloppy when nested in sentences, and I guess it also breaks the flow of the script. Please criticize this suggestions mercilessly.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:34, 6 February 2007 (PST)

: I agree with most of the conventions used above, albeit with a few minor changes:
: - 'mogu mogu' should just be 'munch, munch'
: - IRJustman and I would like to go with using just words for numbers (e.g., five), unless it comes to maybe 10-yen coins. Not like someone can say "one million yen", right, as opposed to "1,000,000 yen"?
: - screams we'll have to think about, it's kind of hard to romanize say, Sunohara's ひぃぃぃぃぃぃ！！
: - most of the stuff above is freeform, so like you said, will depend on context.
: [[User:Velocity7|velocity7]] 10:09, 6 February 2007 (EST)

: Ditto with velocity7. But I think the interjection translations should be guidelines; translators should retain free rein in using alternatives to naturalise/normalise the speech. Same goes for wild random screaming, this should be translator's call?
: More importantly, characters need to sound consistent throughout the game. Either this should be handled by QC, or translators can route-specialise. Or something; i'm new to this game.
: American English, or British English?
: --[[User:Kwok|Kwok]] 05:40, 13 February 2007 (PST)

== Naming ==
May I suggest adding a Female Youth name as a translation for 少女, shoujo, as a name title especially for the first Kotomi scene. At that first meeting, Tomoya was not too fond of her, hence the more formal name (albeit more conventional, in my opinion), even though name titles are not actually supposed to reflect relations.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:34, 6 February 2007 (PST)

I'm inclined to follow your suggestion too, but will there be space constraints? Also, 'Female Youth' sounds rather detached and unemotional for a guy's thoughts, so would 'Girl' be simpler and sweeter? It's more casual and normalise the scenario that way. Same for shounen; we could call them "Guy".--[[User:Kwok|Kwok]] 05:29, 13 February 2007 (PST)

== Punctuation and General Typography ==

In the guidelines page, ellipses were written as '...' (3 periods). However, there exists a special character for groups of 3 ellipses, '…'. This character is also used in the game text. Unless it is due to technical restrictions(which I doubt there is), the second ellipse should be used. That is to distinguish the ellipses from the period following, as per The Chicago Manual of Style[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E2%80%A6]. Yes, a period is required after ellipses when writing in English. I would not recommend using a program to substitute periods for this character after translating for fear that it might make some unwanted changes in the text.

There are also other things to take note of. The hyphen at your keyboard is only for hyphens. For dashes, use the following

For a limited range, e.g. '07–15' (haven't encountered any), or prefixing a term e.g. 'pre–World War II', use an en dash '–' (XP users: Alt+0150)

For an open range, e.g. 'Saturday—' an em dash '—'(XP users: Alt+0151)

A word that is cut off halfway (say, when some interrupts your conversation) is denoted by a character more commonly seen in Unicode art (well, it sure isn't ASCII, and it's not Shift-JIS)(part of the box drawing character set). It seems like Key used that character as it did not have gaps when placed consequentially. Long lines are usually multiples of this character too. I would recommend using the horizontal bar '―' (U+2013; ampersand, hash, 8213, semicolon), as it also joins with another itself.

As stated in the previous topic, the chouon is used for creative purposes in shouts and yells. The em dash is an excellent substitution for it.

The full width tilde '～' is used in several instances, like ぐっ～～. Seems like Key used it instead of the more politically correct wave symbol '〜' (they probably didn't know of it's existence). Both are in East Asian character sets. I can't find of any non-Asian character that imitates the full width tilde satisfactorily. Maybe we should default to half width tildes?

There is a quotation dash ⁓ (U+2053; ampersand, hash, 8275, semicolon). However, I currently cannot think of any instance it might be required in the script.
[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:05, 13 February 2007 (PST)

Talk:Clannad:Guidelines

2007-02-13T13:29:15Z

Kwok: /* Naming */

== Digits, Interjections, thinking words, shouts/screams and action words ==
I would like to clarify on some of the translation guidelines.

Firstly, do we substitute Arabic numerals on the original text for half-width digits (e.g. 20) or their English equivalents (Twenty)? If it had not been decided, I would suggest that we stick to digits for convention, clarity and conciseness. For kanji numerals, I'd rather we use English words.

In the translations I have seen, interjections were mostly substituted beautifully, but there were several crude ones, and some of those were translated in other ways for other scenarios.

May I suggest to translators and editors:

あの, ano -> Um

え, e -> Eh (repeated えs would be Eeeeh etc.)

ああ, aa -> Ya / K' / Yea / Aah (depending on context)

あ, a -> Ah

えっと, etto -> Erm / Err

っ, 'sokuon' -> ' (e.g. 「えっ？」 -> "Eh'?" , but only when the situation allows) (refer to the Yorkshire accent part on glottal stops in Wikipedia [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glottal_stop])

For those at the end of sentences:

よ, ね, な, ぞ etc. -> huh / not? / (nothing, for when it is an integral part of the sentence, i.e. sounds awkward without it) / reflected in the sentence as

だろう, だろ -> I wonder / I guess / right? / not? / probably / it is probable

I believe the rest have more obvious equivalents in English, and won't have much trouble integrating.

In the topic of screams, as they usually hold no meaning, might I suggest substituting them word for word (Hepburn romanization with kana spelling) with the ー, chouon substituted for a dash, small vowels as their english equivalent (I have thought of substituting large vowels with caps, but wouldn't it lose some aesthetic quality?) and っ with a 'h' where aesthetic standards allow.

For action words that occupy a single line, may I suggest the format as per in the following example, :''もぐもぐ… *mogu mogu, munch munch''

I used the above format for action words in sentences like じっと、そこを見た during my translation draft (which was only at its third day as per this project's founding, despite that I started it near the end of December). However, I find it sloppy when nested in sentences, and I guess it also breaks the flow of the script. Please criticize this suggestions mercilessly.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:34, 6 February 2007 (PST)

: I agree with most of the conventions used above, albeit with a few minor changes:
: - 'mogu mogu' should just be 'munch, munch'
: - IRJustman and I would like to go with using just words for numbers (e.g., five), unless it comes to maybe 10-yen coins. Not like someone can say "one million yen", right, as opposed to "1,000,000 yen"?
: - screams we'll have to think about, it's kind of hard to romanize say, Sunohara's ひぃぃぃぃぃぃ！！
: - most of the stuff above is freeform, so like you said, will depend on context.
: [[User:Velocity7|velocity7]] 10:09, 6 February 2007 (EST)

== Naming ==
May I suggest adding a Female Youth name as a translation for 少女, shoujo, as a name title especially for the first Kotomi scene. At that first meeting, Tomoya was not too fond of her, hence the more formal name (albeit more conventional, in my opinion), even though name titles are not actually supposed to reflect relations.[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:34, 6 February 2007 (PST)

I'm inclined to follow your suggestion too, but will there be space constraints? Also, 'Female Youth' sounds rather detached and unemotional for a guy's thoughts, so would 'Girl' be simpler and sweeter? It's more casual and normalise the scenario that way. Same for shounen; we could call them "Guy".--[[User:Kwok|Kwok]] 05:29, 13 February 2007 (PST)

== Punctuation and General Typography ==

In the guidelines page, ellipses were written as '...' (3 periods). However, there exists a special character for groups of 3 ellipses, '…'. This character is also used in the game text. Unless it is due to technical restrictions(which I doubt there is), the second ellipse should be used. That is to distinguish the ellipses from the period following, as per The Chicago Manual of Style[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E2%80%A6]. Yes, a period is required after ellipses when writing in English. I would not recommend using a program to substitute periods for this character after translating for fear that it might make some unwanted changes in the text.

There are also other things to take note of. The hyphen at your keyboard is only for hyphens. For dashes, use the following

For a limited range, e.g. '07–15' (haven't encountered any), or prefixing a term e.g. 'pre–World War II', use an en dash '–' (XP users: Alt+0150)

For an open range, e.g. 'Saturday—' an em dash '—'(XP users: Alt+0151)

A word that is cut off halfway (say, when some interrupts your conversation) is denoted by a character more commonly seen in Unicode art (well, it sure isn't ASCII, and it's not Shift-JIS)(part of the box drawing character set). It seems like Key used that character as it did not have gaps when placed consequentially. Long lines are usually multiples of this character too. I would recommend using the horizontal bar '―' (U+2013; ampersand, hash, 8213, semicolon), as it also joins with another itself.

As stated in the previous topic, the chouon is used for creative purposes in shouts and yells. The em dash is an excellent substitution for it.

The full width tilde '～' is used in several instances, like ぐっ～～. Seems like Key used it instead of the more politically correct wave symbol '〜' (they probably didn't know of it's existence). Both are in East Asian character sets. I can't find of any non-Asian character that imitates the full width tilde satisfactorily. Maybe we should default to half width tildes?

There is a quotation dash ⁓ (U+2053; ampersand, hash, 8275, semicolon). However, I currently cannot think of any instance it might be required in the script.
[[User:Jc100|Jc100]] 03:05, 13 February 2007 (PST)

User:Kwok

2007-02-13T13:26:46Z

Kwok: New page: Hello. I'm new here. I'm even newer at using wiki, so please bear with me. You can find me at lolicontrol. Clannad is awesome. Kyou is awesome too.

Hello. I'm new here. I'm even newer at using wiki, so please bear with me.
You can find me at lolicontrol. Clannad is awesome.

Kyou is awesome too.