https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=Shadowmaster850Baka-Tsuki - User contributions [en]2026-05-15T17:38:18ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.43.1https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Gate_-_Thus_the_JSDF_Fought_There&diff=502420Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There2016-09-20T19:55:21Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
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<div>{{Status|Active}}<br />
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[[File:GATESvol2.jpg|thumb|400px|right|''The cover art of novel volume 2'']]"Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There" (ゲート：自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Geito - Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri) is a Japanese fantasy novel series by [[:Category:Takumi Yanai|Takumi Yanai]]. <br />
<br />
Between 2006 and 2009, Gate was serialized online in a novel website called Arcadia.<br />
<br />
Later in 2010 it was published by Alphapolis. Compared to the online serialization, the published volumes place a lesser weight on political commentary. Also, volume three has been substantially rewritten. The ending was also different. The concluding fifth volume was published in late 2011. Two gaiden (side story) volumes were also published in 2012 and 2013.<br />
<br />
An ongoing [http://www.mangaupdates.com/series.html?id=72210 manga adaptation] of the story began serialization on 30th July, 2011. There are 5 volumes so far. As of 3rd July, 2015, anime adaptation started airing, with 24 episodes announced.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
[[File:GATE.jpg|thumb|400px|right|''The Gate'']]In August of 20XX, a portal to a parallel world, known as the "Gate", suddenly appeared in Ginza, Tokyo. Monsters and troops poured out of the portal, turning the shopping district into a bloody inferno.<br />
<br />
The Japan Ground-Self Defence Force immediately took action and pushed the fantasy creatures back to the "Gate". To facilitate negotiations and prepare for future fights, the JGSDF dispatched the Third Reconnaissance Team to the "Special Region" at the other side of the Gate.<br />
<br />
Youji Itami, a JSDF officer as well as a 33-year-old otaku, was appointed as the leader of the Team. Amid attacks from enemy troops the team visited a variety of places and learnt a lot about the local culture and geography. <br />
<br />
Thanks to their efforts in humanitarian relief, although with some difficulties they were gradually able to reach out to the locals. They even had a cute elf, a sorceress and a demigoddess in their circle of new friends. <br />
On the other hand, the major powers outside the Gate such as the United States,China and Russia were extremely interested in the abundant resources available in the Special Region. They began to exert diplomatic pressure over Japan.<br />
<br />
A suddenly appearing portal to an unknown world - to the major powers it may be no more than a mere asset for toppling the international order. But to our protagonists it is an invaluable opportunity to broaden knowledge, friendship, and ultimately their perspectives towards the world.<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
Some people find Gate difficult to translate, so prospective translators are encouraged to try their hand translating a page to see how it feels. Also, they should be cautious about registering many chapters at once.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they are working on. They can also post in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] if they have any questions about registration.'''<br />
<br />
=== Format Standards ===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
* [[Format guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Names and Terminology Guidelines|Names and Terminology Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in the in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4663 Teaser Feedback thread] and give the project a vote.'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
* November 17, 2013: Renovated page. Added light novel section.<br />
* June 11, 2011: Status of the prologue updated to 20% done.<br />
* June 8, 2011: A snippet of GATE 1 uploaded.<br />
* June 5, 2011: Project Page Created. Character introductions, prologue and a snippet of GATE 2 uploaded.<br />
<br />
== The "Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There" Series ==<br />
=== Novel ===<br />
==== Teasers ====<br />
::* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Rory the Reaper|(GATE 1) Rory the Reaper]]<br />
::* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Lelei's magic assessment|(GATE 2) Lelei's magic assessment]]<br />
<br />
==== GATE 1: CONTACT ====<br />
[[File:GateMainVolume1.jpg|thumb|x200px|Gate 1:Contact cover]]<br />
::* [[:File:GATE 1 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
::* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Character introductions|Character introductions]]<br />
::* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Volume1 Prologue|Prologue]] (~30%)<br />
::* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
::* [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]<br />
::* Chapter 3<br />
::* Chapter 4<br />
::* Chapter 5<br />
::* Chapter 6<br />
::* Chapter 7<br />
::* Chapter 8<br />
::* Chapter 9<br />
::* Chapter 10<br />
::* Chapter 11<br />
::* Chapter 12<br />
::* Chapter 13<br />
::* Chapter 14<br />
::* Chapter 15<br />
::* Chapter 16<br />
::* Chapter 17<br />
::* Chapter 18<br />
::* Chapter 19<br />
::* Chapter 20<br />
::* Chapter 21<br />
::* Chapter 22<br />
::* Chapter 23<br />
<br />
==== GATE 2: FLAME DRAGON ====<br />
::* [[:File:GATE 2 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 3: UPHEAVAL ====<br />
::* [[:File:GATE 3 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 4: ALL-OUT ATTACK ====<br />
::* [[:File:GATE 4 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 5: DARK GATE ====<br />
<br />
=== Light Novel ===<br />
A light novel was also released by Alphapolis. The illustrator is [http://www4.pf-x.net/~kurojishi/ Kurojishi]. There are slight differences between the light novel and the previously published novel.<br />
<br />
==== Volume 1 - Contact Chapter (First Half) ====<br />
<br />
[[File: Gate LN Vol 1 - 000a.jpg|thumb|x200px|Volume 1 cover]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/11/GJ12.html Skythewood] <br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/11/GJ13.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/11/GJ14.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ15.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 6|Chapter 6]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ16.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 7|Chapter 7]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ17.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 8|Chapter 8]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ18.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 9|Chapter 9]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ19.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 10|Chapter 10]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ20.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 11|Chapter 11]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ110.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 12|Chapter 12]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ111.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ112.html Skythewood]<br />
<br />
==== Volume 2 - Contact Chapter (Second Half) ====<br />
<br />
[[File: Gate Jietai LN Vol 2.jpg|thumb|x200px|Volume 2 cover]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 13|Chapter 13]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ213.html Skythewood] <br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 14|Chapter 14]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ214.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 15|Chapter 15]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ215.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 16|Chapter 16]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ216.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 17|Chapter 17]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ217.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 18|Chapter 18]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ218.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 19|Chapter 19]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ219.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 20|Chapter 20]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ220.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 21|Chapter 21]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ221.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 22|Chapter 22]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ222.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Chapter 23|Chapter 23]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ223.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 2 Afterword|Afterword]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ224.html Skythewood]<br />
<br />
==== Volume 3 - Flame Dragon Chapter (First Half) ====<br />
<br />
[[File: Gate Jietai LN Vol 3.jpg|thumb|x200px|Volume 3 cover]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ31.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ32.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ33.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ34.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2015/12/GJ35.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 6|Chapter 6]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ36.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 7|Chapter 7]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ37.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Chapter 8|Chapter 8]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ38.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 3 Afterword|Afterword]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ39.html Skythewood]<br />
<br />
==== Volume 4 - Flame Dragon Chapter (Second Half) ====<br />
<br />
[[File: Gate Jietai LN Vol 4.jpg|thumb|x200px|Volume 4 cover]]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 9|Chapter 9]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ49.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 10|Chapter 10]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ410.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 11|Chapter 11]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ411.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 12|Chapter 12]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ412.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 13|Chapter 13]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ413.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 14|Chapter 14]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ414.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 15|Chapter 15]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ415.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 16|Chapter 16]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ416.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Chapter 17|Chapter 17]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ417.html Skythewood]<br />
:* [[Gate LN:Volume 4 Afterword|Afterword]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.sg/2016/01/GJ418.html Skythewood]<br />
<br />
==== Volume 5 - Upheaval Chapter (First Half) ====<br />
<br />
==== Volume 6 - Upheaval Chapter (Second Half) ====<br />
<br />
==== Volume 7 - All-Out Attack Chapter (First Half) ====<br />
<br />
==== Volume 8 - All-Out Attack Chapter (Second Half) ====<br />
<br />
==== Volume 9 - Dark Gate Chapter (First Half) ====<br />
<br />
==== Volume 10 - Dark Gate Chapter (Second Half) ====<br />
<br />
== Project Staff ==<br />
<br />
* Project Administrator: N/A<br />
* Project Manager: N/A<br />
<br />
=== Translators ===<br />
<br />
'''Active'''<br />
:* [[user:lickymee|lickymee]] at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my/ Skythewood]<br />
:* [[user:Nigel|Nigel]] (A.K.A Robot with Translation Powers) at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my/ Skythewood]<br />
:* [[user:Skythewood|Skythewood]] (Master of Skythewood's Slaves) at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my/ Skythewood]<br />
'''K.I.A.'''<br />
:* [[user:RndCodeGen|RndCodeGen]]<br />
:* [[user:DNK|DNK]]<br />
<br />
For such a long series we are extremely short of translators to work on it. We welcome anyone who has good Japanese comprehension capability to join our team. Please leave a message in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4663 Discussion Thread] if you are interested.<br />
<br />
=== Editors ===<br />
* Beroin<br />
<br />
* Deemoney08<br />
* PervySageChuck (A.K.A Senile Old Fart) at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my Skythewood]<br />
* Nate at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my Skythewood]<br />
* Hexcolyte at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my Skythewood]<br />
* TaintedDreams at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my Skythewood]<br />
* ExLeecher-kun at [http://skythewood.blogspot.my Skythewood]<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
<br />
=== Main Series ===<br />
* '''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri'''<br />
** GATE 1: CONTACT / 接触編 (12 APR 2010, ISBN 978-4-434-14235-2)<br />
** GATE 2: FLAME DRAGON / 炎龍編 (5 AUG 2010, ISBN 978-4-434-14763-0)<br />
** GATE 3: UPHEAVAL / 動乱編 (24 DEC 2010, ISBN 978-4-434-15254-2)<br />
** GATE 4: ALL-OUT ATTACK / 総撃編 (24 JUN 2011, ISBN 978-4-434-15720-2)<br />
** GATE 5: DARK GATE / 冥門編 (22 DEC 2011, ISBN 978-4-434-16238-1)<br />
<br />
=== Spin-off ===<br />
* '''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦っちゃってます。/ Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakacchattemasu.'''<br />
** The Episode of Steaming Hot-springs / 湯煙温泉編 ([http://www.mai-net.net/bbs/sst/sst.php?act=dump&cate=original&all=1507&n=1#kiji Arcadia serialization])<br />
** The Episode of the Comike Winter Campaign / 混家冬の陣篇<br />
** The Episode of Thriving Business / 商売繁盛編 ([http://www.mai-net.net/bbs/sst/sst.php?act=dump&cate=original&all=1507&n=2#kiji Arcadia serialization])<br />
<br />
=== Light Novel ===<br />
* '''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri'''<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈1〉接触編〈上〉 (DEC 2012, ISBN 978-4-434-17474-2)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈1〉接触編〈下〉 (DEC 2012, ISBN 978-4-434-17475-9)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈2〉炎龍編〈上〉 (MAR 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-17702-6)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈2〉炎龍編〈下〉 (MAR 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-17703-3)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈3〉動乱編〈上〉 (JUN 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-17937-2)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈3〉動乱編〈下〉 (JUN 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-17938-9)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈4〉総撃編〈上〉 (SEP 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-18239-6)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈4〉総撃編〈下〉 (SEP 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-18240-2)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈5〉冥門編〈上〉 (DEC 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-18575-5)<br />
** ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈5〉冥門編〈下〉 (DEC 2013, ISBN 978-4-434-18576-2)<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Takumi Yanai]][[Category:Light novel (English)]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Boku_to_Kanojo_ni_Furu_Yoru&diff=502419Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru2016-09-20T19:54:34Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
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<div>{{Status|Stalled}}<br />
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{{Teaser|English}}<br />
<br />
[[File:BtKnFY V01_000.jpg|thumb|Volume 1 Cover]]<br />
<br />
'''''Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru''''' (ぼくと彼女に降る夜) is a light novel series written by Yachimata Ayumu (八街 歩) and illustrated by Misaki Kurehito (深崎暮人). This was published by Fujimishobo and has now ended with 9 volumes. <br />
<br />
<!--This series is also available in the following languages: <br />
<br />
Indonesian--><br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
Sugamu Naito is just your average schoolboy. However, his life was changed when he was dragged into a battle between magicians called Makai Jutsushi. Naito was saved by a Makai Juutsushi girl, Yoruyomiru. His meeting with her shook his lost memories. Now that he knows the existence of dark world, he was moved by something that was inside of him, and took a step into battle...<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
=== [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first discuss it/to notify the staff in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=6052 forum], and to [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on (see the [[Format guideline#Translators|Guideline]] page for usage rules).<br />
<br />
=== Format Standards ===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the General Format/Style Guideline and maintain the same terminology used. Editors are to check the standard if possible. Both translators and editors are required to participate actively in the forum in project standards.'''<br />
* [[Format guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
<!--*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Guidelines|Project Specific Guidelines and Terminology]]--><br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the teaser, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=6052 Feedback Thread]'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
* 2013 Sep 14:Teaser Initiated<br />
<br />
== ''Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru'' series by Yachimata Ayumu ==<br />
=== Volume 1 Night Successor - Those Who Succeed the Night ===<br />
* [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]] (62% Complete)<br />
<!--<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 Magic feast begin]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 八祖の禍家]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 Night before decisive battle]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 ”Master”]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
===Volume 2===<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Afterword|Afterword]]--><br />
<br />
== Project Staff ==<br />
* Project Administrator:<!--ask [[user:bicube|bicube]] for further information--><br />
* Project Manager:<!--ask [[user:bicube|bicube]] for further information--><br />
<br />
=== Translators ===<br />
* [[user:mada|mada]] <br />
<br />
=== Editors ===<br />
All editors that speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
* [[User:Nerokun|Nerokun]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
* ナイトサクセサ一～夜を継ぐ者 Night Successor - Those Who Succeed the Night, 25 March 2007/平成19年3月２５日, ISBN 978-4-8291-1910-5 c0193<br />
* 25 February 2008/平成20年2月２５日, ISBN 978-4-8291-3264-7 c0193</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Shadowmaster850&diff=471916User talk:Shadowmaster8502015-11-22T00:10:35Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Permission */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Permission ==<br />
<br />
Hi. I want to translate the novel Mimizuku to Vietnamese, but I couldn't contact Amazing Buffalo and Rage Beast said that he didn't do Vol 1. You are one of the staff, so would you mind if I translate it? And if you don't mind, please inform Buffalo of my intention. Thank you<br />
<br />
I do not mind if you do a Vietnamese translation and I will also inform Buffalo of your intentions. Just tell me your username so that I can contact you if there are any problems.<br />
<br />
Thank you. I'm Minhtun, from Sonako Wiki, if you know it.<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Permission'''<big></big> ==<br />
<big>Hi, i would like to translate Mimizuku and Iris on Rainy Days into Vietnamese, will that be okay? i promise to leave proper credit :)</big><br />
<br />
I see no problem with that. If you could please link the page where the thing is going on.</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User:Zzhk&diff=445786User:Zzhk2015-06-04T07:41:18Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>==Intro==<br />
<br />
Hello, welcome to my humble abode. Thank you for reading.<br />
<br />
There's really not much to say. I hope my work speaks for itself.<br />
<br />
I suppose my area of expertise is Chinese to English translation.<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
Hi there. My username is shadowmaster850 and I was looking at the Leviathan of the Covenant Light novel and saw that there were no editors. So would it be possible to help out?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Projects==<br />
<br />
*[[Campione!]]<br />
**Volumes 2,3,5-11,13-18 (completed)<br />
**Acknowledgements: florza, Kadi<br />
<br />
*[[CubexCursedxCurious]]<br />
**Volumes 1-17 (completed)<br />
**Acknowledgements: V1P,C1-2 by kage_musha<br />
<br />
*[[High School DxD]]<br />
**Volume 9 (completed)<br />
<br />
*[[Leviathan of the Covenant]] (Meiyaku no Leviathan)<br />
**Volume 2 (in progress)<br />
**Volume 1 (completed)<br />
<br />
*[[Seirei Tsukai no Blade Dance]]<br />
**Volume 14 (July)<br />
**Volumes 6,7,9-13 (completed)<br />
**Acknowledgements: florza, Kuroi_Hikari<br />
<br />
*[[Silver Cross and Draculea]]<br />
**Volume 4 Prologue, Ch.1-3 (completed)<br />
**Volumes 2-3 (completed)</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Mahou_Sensou:Volume_1_Prologue&diff=378275Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Prologue2014-08-05T11:47:59Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>==Prologue==<br />
"Nii-san!"<br />
<br />
Aiba Mui called out as she descended the stairs leading to a dimly lit subway platform.<br />
<br />
Though none of the lights in the area were lit, her surroundings were nonetheless covered in a hazy glow.<br />
<br />
This light emanated from several small spheres floating around her like balls of flame.<br />
<br />
Radiating a soft yellowish light, the three spheres dipped and bobbed as they followed her every movement.<br />
<br />
Responding to her call the young man turned his head to gaze back at her. He like she, was similarly shadowed by three spheres of light.<br />
<br />
These however glowed eerily with a pale white light.<br />
<br />
He coldly turned to face her, clothed not in the uniform she was accustomed to seeing, but rather in a white shirt and jeans.<br />
<br />
His lips never broke their silence.<br />
<br />
"Nii-san, I've been looking for you for so long. Please, come home with me!"<br />
<br />
As Mui neared the youth, reaching for his arm, a sharp pain flashed across her cheek.<br />
<br />
Before she knew what had happened she found herself on the ground.<br />
<br />
"...Nii-, Nii-san..."<br />
<br />
Although she'd already realized that she'd been struck, she raised her head and continued to plead with him.<br />
<br />
The youth's only reaction to the scene before him was a wintry smile.<br />
<br />
The contemptuous look in his frigid eyes filled Mui with fear.<br />
<br />
"...Nii-san?"<br />
<br />
Mui, however looked up tentatively with hope.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, the sneer filling her brother's face, an expression she'd never before seen him wear, quickly replaced any such feelings with despair.<br />
<br />
His mocking smile suddenly twisted into an angry snarl.<br />
<br />
His first words.<br />
<br />
"What're you crying for?"<br />
<br />
She hadn't noticed the tears.<br />
<br />
"Please remember, Nii-san! Remember Mom, and Dad, and me! I refuse to believe you've just forgotten everything!"<br />
<br />
Teardrops traced the angry red lines her brother had left on her cheek.<br />
<br />
Seeing Mui in this state the youth's irritation turned impetuous.<br />
<br />
With hate-filled eyes he drew his saber from its leather scabbard at his waist, and pressed its point between her eyes.<br />
<br />
"Are you going to kill me?" Mui asked her eyes still moist with tears.<br />
<br />
"I won't kill you. Your abilities, after all, are needed by we <Trailers>. Don't misunderstand, though; I could kill you without the slightest hesitation. And you call someone like that your brother?"<br />
<br />
Mui nodded.<br />
<br />
"Yes, I'll never give up. I'll do whatever it takes to return you to normal."<br />
<br />
At any moment the saber's tip might pierce on through.<br />
<br />
However she'd sooner die here to his blade than abandon him.<br />
<br />
"Nii-san, I beg you! Come back with me!"<br />
<br />
Mui's desperate cries were covered up by an earsplitting thunder, the sound coming from the depths of the tunnel behind the young man.<br />
<br />
It couldn't possibly have been a train however.<br />
<br />
The station the two found themselves in was abandoned like some desolate subterranean temple, and power had long since been cut.<br />
<br />
There simply wasn't any way a train would have made its way here.<br />
<br />
Though Mui continued to watch her brother, he had since turned to face the tunnel behind him.<br />
<br />
As the sound neared them, it became apparent that it was the roar of engines they heard. He sheathed his blade.<br />
<br />
Mui rose to her feet.<br />
<br />
The young man suddenly thrust his hand out, seeking her arm, but Mui had already stepped back.<br />
<br />
-- It's been so long and so hard finding Nii-san...<br />
<br />
She couldn't afford to lose him again.<br />
<br />
A motorcycle emerged from the tunnel's lip.<br />
<br />
Mui knew her brother was about to be taken once more, but her body refused to move.<br />
<br />
Because she understood that her brother aimed to deliver her to them.<br />
<br />
If that happened, it'd be all over.<br />
<br />
If both of them fell into the hands of the enemy, then any hope of saving her brother would vanish.<br />
<br />
That was something she couldn't allow to happen.<br />
<br />
-- If there's just one of them...<br />
<br />
Seated atop the motorcycle was a lone rider.<br />
<br />
As Mui calculated her chances, yet another motorcycle silently appeared from the other side. She'd been caught in an ambush.<br />
<br />
Once more she called out for her brother.<br />
<br />
"Nii-san!"<br />
<br />
She wished her brother would follow her.<br />
<br />
She wanted with all her heart to reach out her arm, take her brother's hand, and escape this place.<br />
<br />
The sinister smile on his face, making bare his malicious intent, dashed any such hopes to bits.<br />
<br />
The two other riders, one in front, and one behind, approached, stepping onto the platform.<br />
<br />
Mui's gaze never left her brother.<br />
<br />
"Please, please come with me!"<br />
<br />
The identities of the two men striding toward her were obscured by the helmets they wore.<br />
<br />
Mui's heart was wracked with sorrow at having to part from her brother once more. Nonetheless, she turned and began to race toward the stairs.<br />
<br />
A gale struck her from behind.<br />
<br />
"Aaah!"<br />
<br />
She fell, the sound of footsteps increasing in urgency as she struggled to rise.<br />
<br />
She knew what they had done.<br />
<br />
Though her palms and knees screamed with pain, she forced herself to her feet and into a run.<br />
<br />
Racing up the stairs two at a time, she bit her lip in frustration.<br />
<br />
Struggling to hold back her tears, they heedlessly filled her eyes.<br />
<br />
She passed through the empty ticket collection counters, and into the seemingly endless dark of the walkway.<br />
<br />
Charging up the stairs back to ground level without slowing, she caught sight of the sky, covered in a dusky light.<br />
<br />
Though dimly lit, the light was nonetheless piercing to her dark-adjusted eyes, and she squinted in reaction.<br />
<br />
Drawing her weapon from its holster, she turned around and pulled the trigger.<br />
<br />
A yellow light flashed down the stairwell. Without taking the time to confirm the result, she continued to rush up the stairs before her.<br />
<br />
Leaving the voices of the shouting men behind her, Mui wiped her tears and raced across the empty street.<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=NouCome:_Volume_1_Chapter_1&diff=371357NouCome: Volume 1 Chapter 12014-07-20T17:07:41Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>==Chapter 1 - Amakusa Kanade's bitter daily life==<br />
===Part 1===<br />
What does a person do if an erotic book has fallen by the roadside?<br />
<br />
<br />
The natural thing is to always take a glancing look.<br />
<br />
If they are a high school student, there is the problem of appearances they can not instantly pick it up, however they can go all out in taking peeks. <br />
<br />
And if the exposed pages are a little manic then there will be a rise in the tension. <br />
<br />
However such a small happiness is often crushed.<br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE: ① Press it up against your face and smell it ② Eat it]<br />
<br />
<br />
Right now, these choices appear in my head.<br />
<br />
And, this choice, I must choose one or the other. It is always that way.<br />
<br />
Erotic books are commonly read to get excited. If you are excited to smell or eat it then you are the type who would already be excited that way.<br />
<br />
However I........ smelt it.<br />
<br />
I wasn't excited at all. That's natural. Because you can only see skin color, and no details, so close to it. <br />
<br />
"Wowww, that guy."<br />
<br />
"Smelling the erotic book, pervert!"<br />
<br />
Grade school kids passing by pointed and yelled out.<br />
<br />
"EroSmeller is looking this way."<br />
<br />
"HAHA, that guy is absolutely a virgin. Virgin!"<br />
<br />
They ran off laughing.<br />
<br />
"......What am I doing so early in the morning."<br />
<br />
When it was satisfied I quietly placed the erotic book back down on the roadside.<br />
<br />
『Absolute Choice』 <br />
<br />
The name I gave the phenomenon is, as the name suggests, one where I absolutely have to choose one or the other. It creates a choice with neither spoken nor written letters in my head.<br />
<br />
Information is emitted from somewhere directly into my brain which instantly comprehends it.<br />
<br />
It ignores the five senses, and even if I closed my eyes or block my ears, it never disappears until a choice is made.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Kanade-chan."<br />
<br />
Abruptly, a deep voice comes from in front of me.<br />
<br />
"Ge......"<br />
<br />
When I looked up, there she stood, Gondou Daigo (49), a housewife who lives nearby whose weight exceeds three digits<ref>Kilograms, so 220lbs+.</ref>. Seeing her body was like being punched.<br />
<br />
"Kanade-chan, are you on your way to school now?"<br />
<br />
"Ye-yes, that's right."<br />
<br />
Daiko-san, who appeared to be returning from the convenience store, glued her eyes to me when I stepped into her view.<br />
<br />
"Nufufu, you are as cute as ever."<br />
<br />
"....!"<br />
<br />
Chills ran down my spine.<br />
<br />
This person, each time I see her, is weirdly happy to see me.<br />
<br />
It seems I look exactly like her ex-husband when he was young. What kind of useless miracle is that.<br />
<br />
With a reason like that, every day my virtue seems in danger. With school as an excuse I left quickly.<br />
<br />
"Th-thank you, I am running late."<br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE: ① "Please hold me" ② "Please hold me and go with your instincts"]<br />
<br />
<br />
......Are you serious?<br />
<br />
The choices sometimes force words not just actions.<br />
<br />
Even if it will be unreasonable the choices appear and have to be followed absolutely.<br />
<br />
Even if it says ①, and ②, how are they different?<br />
<br />
"......Please hold me."<br />
<br />
In a low voice that tried to disappear I whispered the words. At the same time a light shone in Daiko-san's eyes as though a beast was locking onto its prey.<br />
<br />
"Kanade-chan......finally."<br />
<br />
Dangerous, things like this are dangerous!<br />
<br />
"Wa-wait a moment, just now, nooooo!"<br />
<br />
"I accept, thanks!<ref>いただきます is mostly used for eating and often translated as "I'm digging in!" or "I'm starting" but the base words are 'Thankful acceptance'.</ref>"<br />
<br />
What is happening!?<br />
<br />
Lumps of meat dashed madly at me and I was hugged with all her might.<br />
<br />
"Gyaaa!"<br />
<br />
She's too strong! Even my bones are breaking<ref>Yabe is used with bones, it is a slang of Yabai which means beyond risky/amazing/terrible.</ref>! I have to say something before its too late!<br />
<br />
"Give......I give!"<br />
<br />
My scream was totally ignored.<br />
<br />
"Gyaaaaaa!"<br />
<br />
"Fuu, thank you for the feast."<br />
<br />
After several tens of seconds Daiko-san was satisfied(?), let me go, and laughed as she walked away with heavy lumbering footsteps. <br />
<br />
"Gu......"<br />
<br />
I braced my wobbing knees and barely prevented myself from sinking down.<br />
<br />
The time between absolute choices is completely random. It's not unusual to have them consecutively but the combo of the erotic book and Daiko was too severe.<br />
<br />
Feeling tired I began to walk. As I approached the crossroads...<br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE: ① A beautiful girl falls from the sky ② Daiko-san falls from the sky ]<br />
<br />
<br />
......No no no.<br />
<br />
Daiko-san just walked towards her house moments ago......how is that possible? I have experienced until I'm sick of it that this absolute choice doesn't accept the laws of physics.<br />
<br />
Once a choice states it, no matter how unscientific it is, it will happen without fail if you choose it.<br />
<br />
That is to say if you choose ② the probability of Daiko-san falling from the sky is 100%. If I was to be hit by her...... I'd die. Body and soul.<br />
<br />
By eliminating that, it left me wondering at the wording of ①.<br />
<br />
"However, what happens in that case?"<br />
<br />
Surely, a person will appear in the air? I looked up at the sky fearfully. Nothing was happening. <br />
<br />
"?"<br />
<br />
While I wondered and looked down in front of me for a moment.<br />
<br />
"Dowaaaa!"<br />
<br />
Something was falling at blistering speeds before my eyes and slammed into the ground.<br />
<br />
"Na......na"<br />
<br />
I was at a loss for words. Even though I had been somewhat mentally prepared......something seriously fell.<br />
<br />
But in the next moment, besides the idea of something falling, an intense question appeared in my brain.<br />
<br />
"What...... is this?"<br />
<br />
Because the person(?) was doing a human bridge position.<br />
<br />
Disagreeable as it is, the truth is there's no other way to describe it...... than the person(?) who <br />
fell......was doing a human bridge position.<br />
<br />
Not facing downwards, or facing up, instead they did a splendid bridge.<br />
<br />
......Why?<br />
<br />
It was too surreal a spectacle, I was frozen in place.<br />
<br />
I froze for a dozen seconds. The living bridge suddenly collapsed.<br />
<br />
Because of that I returned to my senses. It pushed the mental impact of seeing a human bridge land and reminded me that a person fell from the sky.<br />
<br />
"Ar-are you okay?"<br />
<br />
I am near panicking and am shaking the body.<br />
<br />
"N......Fumiyu?<ref>ふみゅ seems to be her little sound when waking or puzzled.</ref>"<br />
<br />
As though she was waking up, a weird sound escaped from her.<br />
<br />
"Go-good......"<br />
<br />
She was alive, my chest heaved a sigh of relief as she looked up.<br />
<br />
"Ah? Here......where am I?"<br />
<br />
She restlessly scanned the vicinity until settling on me.<br />
<br />
"Um......"<br />
<br />
She was breathtaking. Skin so white it was almost like a ghost, soft, fluffy blond hair and clear, round blue <br />
eyes. She wore chocolate colored fairy-tale like clothing. <br />
<br />
And above all, a figure too buxom for a non-white<ref>You see this occasionally where they comment a girls breasts are too big for her to be Japanese, this was just a bit more generic than that.</ref>. Her whole appearance was too surreal, I couldn't help but be stunned.<br />
<br />
Unlike me who couldn't find any words, her face suddenly brightened.<br />
<br />
"Amakusa Kanade-san right?"<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
I was bewildered by her suddenly saying my full name.<br />
<br />
"Ah......ah that's right."<br />
<br />
I searched my memories, but I can't find any memory of this beautiful girl in my brain.<br />
<br />
"Err......you are?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, my name is......Ah? My name is......ah......what was it?"<br />
<br />
"No......I don't know."<br />
<br />
The girl looked like she was thinking a moment then clapped her hands suddenly.<br />
<br />
"I understand, I have lost some memories, like amnesia."<br />
<br />
No, you shouldn't really say that so spunkily.<br />
<br />
"When I fell I likely received a strong shock to the head."<br />
<br />
No, you did that beautiful bridge and your head didn't touch the ground.<br />
<br />
"Oh well, I'll remember before too long. I'm the Heizamon of calmness."<br />
<br />
Heizaemon of calm<ref>reference to The Peony Latern a Edo-era story about a man who survived a poisoned by his second wife and her lover. He often flew into mad rages where he didn't recognize his daughter.</ref>......no one uses that expression these days. Especially an openly foreign girl saying that was extremely incongruous.<br />
<br />
"Ah......for now it would be good to call me Heizaemon."<br />
<br />
I'll pass.<br />
<br />
"Now, putting aside the name issue. Lets have an important talk Kanade-san."<br />
<br />
"Important?......Umm."<br />
<br />
She stepped close to his side with a defenseless smile and he suddenly felt strange. <br />
<br />
What is it? The sense of deja-vu was strong.<br />
<br />
"Please? Kanade-san?"<br />
<br />
I got it, it reminded me of a dog.<br />
<br />
It arbitrarily comes to your hand with unconditional trust and goodwill. This girl and a dog give off the same impression.<br />
<br />
By reflex I petted her head.<br />
<br />
Was it bad? Although I thought that, instead her face gave out a joyful expression that was far from hating it.<br />
<br />
"Hehehe."<br />
<br />
"Hmm?"<br />
<br />
Part of her forelock stiffened and raised up unnaturally. When I stopped stroking her head it returned to its original shape.<br />
<br />
"Ah, when I'm happy it stands freely."<br />
<br />
A tail......she is a dog after all.<br />
<br />
Unexpectedly, a desire appeared, somehow, really somehow, I stretched out my hand to her.<br />
<br />
"Hand."<br />
<br />
"Yes!"<br />
<br />
She held hers out.<br />
<br />
"Sit."<br />
<br />
"Yes!"<br />
<br />
She did it. She's perfectly like a dog.<br />
<br />
"Gugyuuuuuuu."<br />
<br />
Then suddenly, a terrible sound echoed. For a moment it sounded the cry of a voice actor but apparently it was this girl's stomach rumbling. <br />
<br />
"Ah, I'm hungry.<ref>おなかと背中が、うらがえりそうです literally means my stomach and back are reversed hence his follow-up thought.</ref>"<br />
<br />
It was a grotesque image.<br />
<br />
"You are really that hungry......ah, I might have something."<br />
<br />
Suddenly I reached and groped in my bag. <br />
<br />
I picked it up, a one bite chocolate. The moment I pulled it out her face lit up.<br />
<br />
"Ah, its chocolate!"<br />
<br />
"Do you like this?"<br />
<br />
"I love it!"<br />
<br />
[[image:NoucomeVol1 015.jpg|thumb]] <br />
<br />
Her smile covered all of her face. It's forbidden to give chocolate to a real dog, but this girl was only dog like, she was still human......she was human right?<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
I undid the wrapping and threw it lightly in the air. She hopped to where it was falling and jumping up caught it with her mouth.<br />
<br />
"Delish!<ref>おいひーです seems to be a mumbled 'delicious'</ref>"<br />
<br />
Seemingly blessed her face smiled happily. Like earlier her forelock rose like a tail, it stood......it was interesting.<br />
<br />
"Ah, lets go with that."<br />
<br />
She finished the chocolate and clapped her hands.<br />
<br />
"What was that?"<br />
<br />
"It's Chocolate."<br />
<br />
"Ah, what?"<br />
<br />
"That's my name."<br />
<br />
"No......I don't understand what you mean."<br />
<br />
"Kanade-san, do you like chocolate?"<br />
<br />
"Hmm, I guess so. To the extent of putting some in my bag and I do like sweet things in general."<br />
<br />
"Then, my name is Chocolate."<br />
<br />
What a simplistic way of thinking.<br />
<br />
"No, Chocolate isn't chocolate."<br />
<br />
"Ah, I'm not? Then......what about a French sounding Chocolat.<ref>her name switched from a 'Cho' spelling to 'Sho'. Normally they use 'Cho' for regular chocolate and 'Sho' when taking it from the French term for 'hot chocolate'. チョコレート (Chokoraato) vs ショコラ (Shokote). </ref>"<br />
<br />
I don't know which side of being intelligent she's on but when I think of Chocolat I think of a dog. The provisional name stuck though.<br />
<br />
"Yes, it is decided!"<br />
<br />
Ah, if she is convinced its likely good to go with it.<br />
<br />
It's only a part of her memory that's lost. If she hears many things maybe she will remember her name.<br />
Chocolat(?), first of all, in order to determine how much memory she had I asked her purpose.<br />
<br />
"It is to take care of Kanade-san."<br />
<br />
With no hesitation she declared that.<br />
<br />
"Ah? Caring...... for me?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, though my other memories aren't clear that is completely certain."<br />
<br />
Somehow......the situation has become weirder.<br />
<br />
"I-Is that so?......Then, your home, where are you from?<br />
<br />
"There!"<br />
<br />
She pointed above her head.<br />
<br />
"Um? From the north?"<br />
<br />
Judging by appearance she wasn't Asian, does she mean Russia or even Northern Europe?<br />
<br />
"No, above the sky.<ref>here she uses お空 which might be a very respectful way of saying the sky without meaning Heaven exactly.</ref>"<br />
<br />
"Above......the sky?"<br />
<br />
"That's right!"<br />
<br />
No......though she did fall from the sky.<br />
<br />
"In short, in order to take care of me you came from a world in the sky?"<br />
<br />
"Just like that."<br />
<br />
Chocolat took a guts pose<ref>Signature winning pose by Guts Ishimatsu where they pump their both fists straight in the air.</ref> with a huge smile on her face. In contrast, I felt chills in my heart.<br />
<br />
"Goodbye!"<br />
<br />
"Wh-why are you leaving? Please wait!"<br />
<br />
I don't like doing it but......it is all very dubious.<br />
<br />
"I'll absolutely benefit you if you let me try staying with you."<br />
<br />
Why did Chocolat run after him while rubbing her hands together.<br />
<br />
"No, things suit me fine now."<br />
<br />
"Right now I come with detergent."<br />
<br />
"No. You are not a newspaper."<br />
<br />
"I also come with watermelon and tempura."<br />
<br />
"That seems like it will give a stomach ache!"<br />
<br />
"With an apple and a gorilla!" <br />
<br />
"I don't need them or a trumpet and panties!"<br />
<br />
"Marriage and a letter of divorce come with me!"<br />
<br />
"That absolutely shouldn't go together."<br />
<br />
"I also come with a plot of Land and the deed."<br />
<br />
"I need that!"<br />
<br />
"Sorry, that's a lie."<br />
<br />
"『Guri and Gura』<ref>children's book</ref> also come with me."<br />
<br />
"I have them. I have it because its a masterpiece!"<br />
<br />
"Baka and Test also come with me."<br />
<br />
"Things like that aren't sufficient! If that's the case its a failure right?!"<br />
<br />
"Then, buy this suspicious jar. Sign here."<br />
<br />
"Trying to make a sale in a moment of confusion!"<br />
<br />
.....Ku, who on earth is this person.<br />
<br />
It's better not to get involved with her, I decided that and turned to walk away.<br />
<br />
"Aaa!"<br />
<br />
Behind me, a horrible fake voice rang out. But I ignored it and continued on.<br />
<br />
"Aaaa!"<br />
<br />
It was likely to keep going if I didn't react. Reluctantly I turned. Chocolat was coquettish lying on the ground while looking up at me.<br />
<br />
From somewhere a handkerchief is stuffed in her mouth as a prop......such an irritating person showed up.<br />
<br />
"Later."<br />
<br />
"Wait a moment, a weak girl has fallen down, you should be solicitously asking 『Are you okay Baby?』"<br />
<br />
Such lines are only permitted to Hanawa-kun<ref>Chibi Maruko-chan reference</ref>.<br />
<br />
"You see, I have to be at school so I don't have spare time to bother with you."<br />
<br />
I've become more rude and less friendly with her<ref>Actual saying is he changed from calling her Kimi to Omae, basically choosing a ruder version of 'you' for her.</ref>. My brain must have judged that I don't need to respect this creature.<br />
<br />
"It's okay, without saying so, I'll listen to anything, so more please!"<br />
<br />
"Then, don't pay attention to me."<br />
<br />
"Oh, I'm sorry. You have asked for a wish my power is not sufficient to fulfill."<br />
<br />
Are you Shenron?<ref>神龍 which means Holy or God dragon and is what they use for Shenron in Dragonball</ref><br />
<br />
Troubling......To shake off this strange creature, what should I do?<br />
<br />
While I'm thinking about that, a certain thing caught my eye......<br />
<br />
"Chocolat-san, Chocolat-san."<br />
<br />
"Yes, what is it?"<br />
<br />
I took the remainder out of the bag.<br />
<br />
"Ah, it is Chocolate!"<br />
<br />
"Can I have it?"<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
I dangled the chocolate from my hand overhead of her.<br />
<br />
"Please give it to me!"<br />
<br />
Even though Chocolat is hopping up and down, since she's small she can't reach it. While holding it high I <br />
measure the timing.<br />
<br />
Its good, the timing is just right. I'm sad to be wasting food but......<br />
<br />
"Here!"<br />
<br />
As it passed I threw the chocolate into the back of a pickup.<br />
<br />
"Ah, wait please chocolate!"<br />
<br />
Chocolat ran with light steps after the pickup. <br />
<br />
I watched the gap between them increase until they went around the corner, disappearing from my sight without <br />
her giving up.<br />
<br />
"Seriously......"<br />
<br />
Even with a long wait, there was no sign of her returning. Even though I thought she was an idiot I didn't think she'd be tricked that perfectly.<br />
<br />
Golden week was starting, it is when the calendar just reaches the summer, it comfortably warms your body, while a spring like atmosphere still strongly remains. <br />
<br />
"Oh well......I'll be careful about that strange person."<br />
<br />
I faced towards the school and began to walk to it.<br />
<br />
===Part 2===<br />
Our high school, Seikou private school, is proud of its 15 first year classes. It is a mammothly large school and has a wastefully large ground area.<br />
<br />
In simple its a moderately long distance from the front gate to the school doors. <br />
<br />
Sniffing the erotic book, Daiko-san's hug, and an encounter with the mysterious dog like creature, it was all a considerable burden on my mental and physical stamina, and left me feeling sick as I crossed the schoolyard.<br />
<br />
After a few minutes I finally reached the entrance deep in the grounds. Fortunately Class 1 of the second year is at this end of the 2nd floor, I just have to go up the stairs and I would be at my class.<br />
<br />
"Morning."<br />
<br />
I opened the door and exchanged greetings with the friends I could see.<br />
<br />
On my way to my seat I ran into a girl standing still by the window. Yukihira Furano.<br />
<br />
She stood there very casually, however even so she gave off a strange sense of presence. Only around Yukihira did the air seem strained.<br />
<br />
As if embodying the image of the name<ref>her name uses a Yuki kanji for snow and the hira kanji can mean flat/broad as in a broad expanse of snow</ref>, her white hair in the sunlight from the window gave off a bright light like the reflection off newly fallen snow. <br />
<br />
"Hey, morning Yukihira."<br />
<br />
In response to my voice, she turned around. Though there was an inorganic feel to her features they were very refined.<br />
<br />
Without an expression Yukihira replied.<br />
<br />
"Morning maggot<ref>Ujimushi means maggot, but mushi also means 'steaming' as in 'mushi atsui' is humid weather.</ref> jerk."<br />
<br />
"......huh?"<br />
<br />
Surprisingly abusive language was used.<br />
<br />
Normally you would think you misheard but, if its Yukihira, anything is possible.<br />
<br />
It's not a conversation if you flinch and back away.<br />
<br />
"Ah, the weather is nice today."<br />
<br />
"Yes it is, maggot jerk."<br />
<br />
"On a day like today I'd like to skip school and go play somewhere."<br />
<br />
"You are surprisingly naughty maggot jerk."<br />
<br />
"What day of the week is it today?"<br />
<br />
"Monday, does that please you maggot jerk."<br />
<br />
"Don't you know I'm trying to change your topic!?"<br />
<br />
In contrast to my raised voice, Yukihira's is serene.<br />
<br />
"Oh, sorry if it made you feel bad. It's just a little bug joke."<br />
<br />
"Bug......joke? What on earth is that?"<br />
<br />
It's the first time I've ever heard that in my life.<br />
<br />
"This morning, on the fortune telling segment on TV, it said there might be an insect related disaster. Even if I'm not that serious in believing it, I do still worry a bit?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, and?"<br />
<br />
"Then, I thought I'd make some jokes and we could laugh it off."<br />
<br />
"That's too much of a reversal......"<br />
<br />
"Hey, I don't settle for succumbing to fate because I'm a woman with a rebellious spirit. I'll fight it to the death if its not something I can accept."<br />
<br />
"No......I don't think it will be that big of an event."<br />
<br />
"By the way, Amakusa if you want I'll do more insect jokes."<br />
<br />
"No, you have done enough."<br />
<br />
"By the way, Amakusa if you want I'll do more insect jokes."<br />
<br />
It seems you want me to hear them. Even if I bluntly refuse it will just prolong things.<br />
<br />
"Then, tell me one."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"Yukihira?"<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"Hello, Yukihira-san?"<br />
<br />
"Hey, listen Monsieur. Today a stupid classmate was ignored<ref>This time Mushi was the verb to ignore.</ref> for you."<br />
<br />
It was endlessly trivial.<br />
<br />
"By the way, just now I didn't only use 'insect' and 'ignore', did you also see me play off the word Monsieur?<ref>Monsieur is Musshu, fairly close to Mushi.</ref>"<br />
<br />
"......I don't get it." <br />
<br />
Explaining a gag that didn't work, such a strong personality.<br />
<br />
"Then, George who was deprived of a turn for this, where should he put his anger!?"<br />
<br />
"Who is that?"<br />
<br />
This Yukihira Furano, though she should be a cool person, jokes around in a way that raises the tension, she <br />
just can't be a normal character.<br />
<br />
"Roughly what are you thinking about Amakusa? You have the face of someone about to go attack a little girl at any moment."<br />
<br />
"What in the hell kind of face is that?"<br />
<br />
"Or, the the face of villager at the entrance of the village of endlessly repeating 『The Starting Village』."<br />
<br />
"No, there is nothing in common with those two pieces."<br />
<br />
"Or, the the face of villager at the entrance of the village who is endlessly repeating 『Huh......huh......you want to look at little girls?』."<br />
<br />
"Don't force the two together!"<br />
<br />
......It's useless. You only get exhausted dealing with someone like her. I abandoned the conversation and started to go around her...<br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE ① "Hey, your breasts<ref>Oppai was used which is kind of a kids word meaning breasts or boobies.</ref>, let me touch your breasts" ② "Hey, my breasts, touch my breasts."]<br />
<br />
<br />
......Yeah, this is strange. This is strange right?<br />
<br />
People usually would resist such a choice at any price if compelled. At the start I also resisted......at first. When absolute choice first appeared I tried to avoid picking either......pain strikes your brain. I can't do it anymore. <br />
<br />
I'm not joking, at first the pain is only faint and dull, over time it feels like the brain is being tightened inside, until it develops into an extreme pain. The skull goes white and the fluid in your brain is scattering, how else can I represent it? Even the woman with 1 scar on her face couldn't deal with it.<br />
<br />
In other words resistance is useless, impossible and a waste of effort.<br />
<br />
A man takes a breathe. Dogs can't speak languages. And when an absolute choice appears, a choice is naturally choosen. <br />
<br />
With that said.<br />
<br />
"Hey, my breasts, touch my breasts."<br />
<br />
The moment I say those lines, Yukihira's eyebrows move slightly.<br />
<br />
"......Amakusa, you, just now, what!?"<br />
<br />
It's no wonder you ask that. It's a remark that anyone can hardly believe they heard right.<br />
<br />
"No, that is-"<br />
<br />
"Perhaps, you just asked me to touch your tits<ref>She replied back using パイオツ or Paiotsu which is more porn like/crude like Tits.</ref>?"<br />
<br />
"......Huh? Just now what?"<br />
<br />
I instinctively asked back, just now...... did she say tits?"<br />
<br />
"I would like to hear whether you said 『Please touch my tits』 or not."<br />
<br />
"No......I said something similar except I didn't say tits."<br />
<br />
"Tits weren't mentioned? Its funny, I'm sure I heard the word tits. Tits is a word that I'm absolutely sure I didn't hear wrongly......Ah, is it shameful to have said tits and now you are trying to conceal it? Even though I don't think tits is a vulgar word. Starting with tits is......"<br />
<br />
"You only want me to say tits!"<br />
<br />
"I admit it. But even you want to call out tits so badly sometimes."<br />
<br />
"I agree."<br />
<br />
"That's not a reason!"<br />
<br />
"I'm getting scolded suddenly!?"<br />
<br />
......Around now Yukihira, the weirdo, was good to deal with. If this choice had appeared in front of other women it would be a big problem.<br />
<br />
Actually, last year's class was disastrous. In front of the girls many things were done and said that can't be done......no, I won't remember it because I will want to cry.<br />
<br />
Anyway, this absolute choice seems pleased to make me have the worst experiences.<br />
<br />
In terms of a galgame, only the paths to bad endings were choosen this last year. I wasn't even able to taste the L of Love. <br />
<br />
I don't want to be popular, I just want to talk to women (without frightening them or being despised by them)......<br />
<br />
However today, there are a lot more absolute choices than ever, the choices are nasty too. I went to my seat quickly, it is better to be quiet.<br />
<br />
As I tried to pass quickly by Yukihira's side...<br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE ①"Hey, your tits, let me touch your tits" ②"Hey, my tits, touch my tits"] <br />
<br />
<br />
......I don't need this. I try to go with the flow but this isn't needed.<br />
<br />
However, no matter how much I complain in my heart, I have no veto power.<br />
<br />
"Hey, my tits, touch my tits."<br />
<br />
Yukihira who took that expressionlessly opened her mouth.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry. I don't want to talk to people who say such vulgar things."<br />
<br />
"Which mouth is saying that!"<br />
<br />
"This mouth. This mouth always says tits."<br />
<br />
"Is the word consistency not in your dictionary!"<br />
<br />
"In my dictionary, only the word tits appears."<br />
<br />
"Then all your life you have been calling them tits!"<br />
<br />
"Amakusa, you......are you really taking a joke like that seriously?"<br />
<br />
"Uuggg!"<br />
<br />
I crumple and tear at my head. It's useless......I can't deal with her. I've been playing the fool with Yukihira, I shook it off, turned and headed to my seat.<br />
<br />
Even though homeroom had not started I was already absurdly fatigued. With a sigh I sat down.<br />
<br />
I casually looked out the window.<br />
<br />
"......Eh?"<br />
<br />
There was a person's face in the window.<br />
<br />
"Waaa!"<br />
<br />
I stood from my chair by reflex.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Amacchi. Morning!"<br />
<br />
The person on the other side of the glass gave a smile and flung open the window.<br />
<br />
"Toe!"<br />
<br />
Feet come through the frame as the person dives through the window while giving off a cheer like a hero.<br />
<br />
While trailing elegant black hair that reached to her waist, she landed lightly.<br />
<br />
"You......where did you come from?"<br />
<br />
The girl who received all the classes's attention, Yuuouji Ouka<ref>Her name changed from the inside cover 遊王子調歌 to 遊王寺調歌 but the furigana spelling seems the same.</ref>, raised her thumb up and declared.<br />
<br />
"Ha, because the guidance counselors were at the entrance I climbed up the wall!"<br />
<br />
If you look at it......its not a large climb and you won't have a very bad fall but even if you happen to think of it you usually wouldn't do it.<br />
<br />
I stared at the girl intently. Glossy, long black hair. She is full bodied but on the whole is slender. The gentle features and appearance of a girl brought up by a fine family.<br />
<br />
However once she opens her mouth, she's noisy like a grade-schooler, her face flickers through expressions rapidly, and she repeatedly does unpredictable things.<br />
<br />
Climbing the wall of a school would usually be called an impossible act but in Yuuouji's case it doesn't seem so and is completed with a single word.<br />
<br />
"Hi Amacchi. Your face is looking tired, something wrong?"<br />
<br />
Without hesitation, she brought her face too close.<br />
<br />
"U......"<br />
<br />
We are already young men and women, I wish she was aware of it, but its impossible for this girl.<br />
<br />
"No, there were various things this morning......I mean, what's with the backpack?"<br />
<br />
On Yuuouji's back is a swollen to the limit rucksack, I want to hear where the heck<ref>Seems to be an implication that it looks like a nighttime burglars bag full of stuff but not sure I get it.</ref> did that come from.<br />
<br />
"Listen close. Nahaha, because I wanted to smuggle this I wasn't able to come in the front entrance."<br />
<br />
I waited as Yuuouji happily lowered the rucksack to the floor.<br />
<br />
She carried that up the wall......what on earth kind of strength is that.<br />
<br />
"Look, look, these are our prototypes."<br />
<br />
The contents are casually placed on the floor. <br />
<br />
Most of the items are stamped with the 『UOG』 logo.<br />
<br />
Though its hard to believe, Yuuouji is the daughter of the president of UOG, a very big and well known company.<br />
<br />
Their business is food, clothing, cosmetics, consumer electronics, books, etc. The produce many things indeed and it is hard to find a house that doesn't have a UOG product in it. It is a company closely tied into people's lives.<br />
<br />
"These were rejected in the planning stage, they were from our product development section. For now they are set aside but they still want the opinions of kids for future reference."<br />
<br />
Yuuouji's voice tempted and gathered our classmates in.<br />
<br />
Even if they are products that were killed, they were on the leading edge in UOG fashion so being interested in them was natural.<br />
<br />
"Ouka-chan, what is that?"<br />
<br />
Everyone could take a product and submit their opinions. One girl pointed at a poisonous red colored bottle.<br />
<br />
"Oh, that, that's for one's wife who is face with ennui, its an aphrodisiac for women. It appears to activate women's sex hormones."<br />
<br />
No, who would ask high school student's opinions of that......<br />
<br />
"No, the effect is outstanding, the price is cheap, but no questions were asked in the planning meeting, it was just dropped."<br />
<br />
"Hmm, why would that be."<br />
<br />
I casually grabbed a bottle and turned it around. The flashy, fancy brand name was visible. 『Abazuren<ref>Abazure means bitch.</ref> Z』.<br />
<br />
"Yes......the name is bad."<br />
<br />
"By the way this morning, I secretly mixed it into my mom's rice, she began to pant suddenly and said <br />
『Ouka......do you not want a little sister?』."<br />
<br />
"What are you doing to the wife of the president of UOG?"<br />
<br />
Yuuouji's mother was a former idol 20 years ago. The other idols of the time were all childishly cute but she gave off an intellectual air and ran as a star for a while. She retired to marry the darling of the business world, Yuuouji Ouma, and changed her media appearances. I see her often delivering the news as a commentator.<br />
<br />
In a word, she was cool. That said, to experiment on her parents, Yuuouji is shameless......It's unbelievable that Yuuouji Ouka came from Yuuouji Kyouka. <br />
<br />
The cancellation that puzzles Yuuouji, doesn't seem to be from the name 『Abazuren Z』 alone. If such a drug circulates in Japanese society, it will collapse.<br />
<br />
I take control of myself and look at the other projects.<br />
<br />
Giving off a strong presence in the corner is what looks like a small printer. In the center of the machine is a bunch of rectangular paper.<br />
<br />
"Yuuouji, what's this?"<br />
<br />
"Ah, its a toy for small children 『Money Maker』. You play with it and make money."<br />
<br />
Indeed, on the surface of the printed paper is a large animated cartoon character drawn in the center 『Bill』. <br />
<br />
I picked up a few and flipped through them.<br />
<br />
"Ah, its not very elaborate...... eh? The real thing is mixed in?"<br />
<br />
One piece in there is not clearly a fake no matter how you look at it. Yukichi-sensei<ref>Fukuzawa Yukichi is on the 10000 yen bill and is regarded as one of the founders of modern Japan.</ref>'s face was peering intently from it.<br />
<br />
"Nahaha, this is an amazingly good machine, when I tried an experiment it came out just like the genuine item."<br />
<br />
"That would be a scandal!?" <br />
<br />
It's completely out, out!<br />
<br />
"Geez, this looks a little more of an honest thing......it looks like 『Life Candy』."<br />
<br />
Life Candy, UOG's confectionery brand, 『Yuuouji』, its a long running product. Each, theme/『～Chapter』, has one package with three pieces, and several variations exist.<br />
<br />
For example it is like this.<br />
<br />
『Love Chapter: Unrequited Love flavor, Confession flavor, Falling in love flavor.』<br />
<br />
A sour taste to symbolize the sorrow, an extra hot taste that expresses the throbbing heart, and a sweet like a burning heart. The configuration of the taste is all over the place but good materials and a low price had made it another hot selling product and taken half the popularity of 『Animal Candy』 away.<br />
<br />
"No, when this was also rejected I grieved."<br />
<br />
Yuuouji picked some up and handed them out.<br />
<br />
『Chapter of the Lady Killer : The unfortunately I cheated on two people flavor, The unfortunate both know flavor, The unfortunate I was stabbed flavor』<br />
<br />
"You said the last part so cutely! I was forced to laugh!"<br />
<br />
『Chapter of Middle level manager: The flavor of stomache pain from dealing with above and below, The restructuring flavor, The flavor of dying a dog's death on the roadside at 50.』<br />
<br />
"It's too sad!"<br />
<br />
『Chapter of the Postmortem: The flavor of taking a bright memory into the next world, The flavor of a futile effort, The flavor of a one-way ticket to hell.』<br />
<br />
"Who would buy that!"<br />
<br />
『Chapter of the NEET: The really? flavor, My old age flavor, What will happen? flavor 』<br />
<br />
"I noticed!"<br />
<br />
『Chapter of If you win you get another: The flavor of wondering if I'll win, The I missed? flavor, You are an idiot if this is seen』<br />
<br />
"What are you doing to the idiot?!"<br />
<br />
None of those have any relation to flavors.<br />
<br />
"How many of these canceled major products?......hm?"<br />
<br />
I looked, trying to find something decent in the products on the floor. Squatting in the corner Yukihira caught my eye.<br />
<br />
What are you doing with 『Money maker』 in your hand and staring......What? Her eyes are scary.<br />
<br />
"Yukihira, what is it?"<br />
<br />
"Ah, Amakusa it is you. This toy, it could be dangerous if misused. Shouldn't a person with good sense take responsibility for it?"<br />
<br />
"Oh my......maybe so."<br />
<br />
Or rather, it should be destroyed here, right now.<br />
<br />
"Oh, me? No, it's impossible. Oh, I'm the only one? I guess it can't be helped, I guess I can since you ask."<br />
<br />
"What is this act? Nobody asked you!"<br />
<br />
"Tch......"<br />
<br />
'Tch' was said. Just now she tch'ed me.<br />
<br />
Yukihira stood expressionlessly, and Yuuouji's voice was raised.<br />
<br />
"Ah, Furanocchi over here, hey! "<br />
<br />
Yukihira returned the greeting casually.<br />
<br />
"Morning, Maggot's daughter."<br />
<br />
That joke, you're continuing it!<br />
<br />
"Eh? Maggot? Ah, so, speaking of maggots."<br />
<br />
Yuuouji groped and rustled through the bottom of the rucksack. Did she say 『Speaking of maggots』......that's the first time I've heard that said.<br />
<br />
"Yes, there's this too. Gee, what a coincidence, Furanocchi try to eat this."<br />
<br />
Yukihira was presented with an earth colored package. It was printed with 『Animal Candy Maggot Flavor』 <br />
<br />
What kind of miracle is that!<br />
<br />
"Indeed, misfortune concerning maggots, it seems to be this......the developer should die."<br />
<br />
If Yukihira eats it calmly, she will vomit it back up. Oh, I understand the feeling. What roughly do maggots taste like. Things of that type should already be canceled.<br />
<br />
Yukihira undid the wrapping paper, then threw it in her mouth. For a while she rolled it on her tongue then declared with a serious look.<br />
<br />
"Seriously, it gives the impression of a maggot."<br />
<br />
"What kind of an impression!"<br />
<br />
"The secret ingredient is one drop of Cicada pee, I think it adds to the flavor."<br />
<br />
"Increase? You say something like that about sesame oil!"<br />
<br />
While watching, I glanced at Yuuouji.<br />
<br />
"I mean is it......even safe to eat?"<br />
<br />
"It's okay, it's okay. The sweets have a 『Strawberry taste』 and a 『Melon taste』 without the strawberry or melon? Hey, Amacchi here is one too."<br />
<br />
"S-so......?"<br />
<br />
......I wonder what this is. It is not unpalatable, its not bad at all. It is a taste that can't be expressed.<br />
<br />
"This, what in the world is in this?"<br />
<br />
Yuuouji looked at the label.<br />
<br />
"Just a moment. Umm, the raw material......its maggot extract."<br />
<br />
"Waaaaaa?"<br />
<br />
By reflex I ended up spitting the candy out. Yuuouji saw it and immediately went into a guts pose again.<br />
<br />
"Amacchi, it's still good if you pick it up within 3 seconds!"<br />
<br />
"That isn't the problem!"<br />
<br />
"No Amacchi, I was just joking a moment ago, a joke! It doesn't contain any maggot juice."<br />
<br />
Yukihira heard Yuuouji's words and clapped her hands.<br />
<br />
"Oh, that is a wonderful maggot joke."<br />
<br />
"That's enough!"<br />
<br />
Arg......It's hard to tell the truth from Yuuouji's expression. I can't confirm it with my own eyes.<br />
<br />
"Show it a little."<br />
<br />
I half snatched it so that I could see the label side.<br />
<br />
『The ingredients cannot be listed.』 <br />
<br />
Scary!<br />
<br />
"Yu-yukihira, you aren't worried about this??"<br />
<br />
Yukihira put it in her mouth before me.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Amakusa, you aren't being very manly with this maggots issue."<br />
<br />
"You sound like an old man!"<br />
<br />
"Generally it is rude to spit out food people give you. I don't think it is quite the lowest act?"<br />
<br />
"That's not very persuasive when you are holding a tissue to your mouth Yukihira-san."<br />
<br />
"It's morning sickness."<br />
<br />
"That's not even a decent lie!"<br />
<br />
"Ahaha, both you, its okay, there are some cheeses in the world with maggots."<br />
<br />
"You just said it is in!"<br />
<br />
My voice that I was shouting with was going hoarse. How many times have I raised my voice this morning?<br />
<br />
"......To be expected when those three are together."<br />
<br />
I heard those annoying words spoken by someone. Speaking of Yukihira and Yuuouji bundled together with me, it could only be that.<br />
<br />
"Shit, it's not right....... I'm not like that."<br />
<br />
"Nahaha, Amacchisa, resign yourself and accept you are part of the 『Reject 5』.<br />
<br />
My shoulder is familiarly slapped by Yuuouji while the hated phrase was uttered.<br />
<br />
Twice each year here at Seikou, a vote is taken in the first and second half of the year. Put simply, its a beauty contest vote by all the boys, up to 3rd year, 45 classes in total, which ranks the best 5 men and women.<br />
<br />
Because there are so many entries the newspaper and broadcast department take it up and close to 100 percent of the school is aware of it.<br />
<br />
In it's brilliant shade an ominous ranking exists. Even though their appearance is excellent, their behavior and personalities make people judge it is impossible to fall in love with them, are 5 men and women. <br />
<br />
The dishonorable name given to them is the 『Reject 5』.<br />
<br />
Yukihira shows no sign that she minds. Yuuouji doesn't seem to care about feelings like that.<br />
<br />
However, I'm just a normal person and can't do that.<br />
<br />
[[image:NoucomeVol1 045.jpg|thumb]] <br />
<br />
"I'm different, I'm different......I'm just an ordinary high school student."<br />
<br />
However, no matter how much I lamented it, the title once given would not disappear for a half year or more.<br />
<br />
By the way, the current rankings were totaled in March at the end of the school year. Because the then third year students were included, as of May in the new year there are nine 『Reject 5』 remaining. <br />
<br />
Three people is one third of the list, and are concentrated in Second year class 1. The additional fact that not one of the students from the popular ranking is in the class it makes for a sad story for the class.<br />
<br />
I don't want to think I have a third of the responsibility.<br />
<br />
"Amacchimosa<ref>I think this is her made up suffix using 'mosa' as in Stalwart, Man of Valor</ref>, you are cool when you are silent."<br />
<br />
"No, you shouldn't be the one saying that......"<br />
<br />
So, the story I spoke frankly about, I think that objectively I look good. In middle school confessions and love letters were not unusual. It's not too much to say I was popular.<br />
<br />
However, March of last year just before I was entering high-school my life changed completely. The damn absolute choices happened to me, and I was forced into eccentric behaviour......and as of May in the second year of high-school the low quality label 『Reject 5』 was pasted onto me.<br />
<br />
However, my abnormality in the end is caused by the irregular absolute choices.<br />
<br />
The loose screws in the heads of Yukihira and Yuuouji are different. Amakusa Kanade, as a human, is a fairly normal character. So, even absolute choice doesn't <br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE: ① Strip to the waist and yell like a Japanese man ② Strip your lower half and yell like an Amazon warrior.]<br />
<br />
<br />
Are you screwing with me heaven!?<br />
<br />
Why come out with this now! Read the air! But, what prejudice is it that makes Amazon = naked lower half!<br />
<br />
......Yes, it is ignored like usual. I'll do it, I'll do it. I thought you'd say that, I'll do it well.<br />
<br />
I choose number ① and put my hands on my uniform, and I started to take it off despite hesitations. <br />
<br />
"Oh my god, look at that."<br />
<br />
What was sad that the girls scream 『Amakusa is doing something weird again』 didn't seem to come with a reaction like blushing, it had become such a typical atmosphere in the classroom.<br />
<br />
Only a month had passed in the new class and its already been recognized that I'm the guy you don't help out even if I begin stripping......<br />
<br />
I shook off the pain of that somehow and quietly(?) stripped to the waist. How about it choices, are you satisfied by this?"<br />
<br />
"Gu......"<br />
<br />
However, a headache hit signifying NO. Apparently it's not sufficient without shouting like a Japanese man.<br />
<br />
"Gahaha, this is a hero's spirit!"<br />
<br />
Already growing desperate I shouted that for the time being.<br />
<br />
The pain faded away...... hey is it good like that?<br />
<br />
"It's done."<br />
<br />
At that time, the door opens, and the teacher enters with the worst timing.<br />
<br />
My standing there doing the guts pose shirtless perfect draws her eyes.<br />
<br />
"You......what are you doing?"<br />
<br />
The teacher of Second year Class 1, Douraku Utage. With a body that can only make you think she is a grade school kid. But contrary to that is her speech and behavior which is crude and violent.<br />
<br />
In the fairly loose atmosphere of Seikou, the yankee aura she gave out was noticeably different.<br />
<br />
"No teacher, there's a deep reason for this......"<br />
<br />
"Hmm, tell me what it is."<br />
<br />
"No......I was ordered to do it."<br />
<br />
"By who?"<br />
<br />
"......by someone else in my head."<br />
<br />
Not this, not this, despite everything.<br />
<br />
"Come with me for a moment."<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei's small palm, beckoned me. <br />
<br />
"Sit."<br />
<br />
"No, I want to put on my clothes first."<br />
<br />
"Shut up."<br />
<br />
"......yes."<br />
<br />
As soon as my knees bent, I was grabbed by the base of the neck.<br />
<br />
"Let's go to the special guidance room."<br />
<br />
"Ow, it hurts!" <br />
<br />
Utage-sensei commanded the class president to take roll call in her place and I was dragged towards the door. <br />
<br />
Where does she store such power in that body!<br />
<br />
There was nothing I could do as I was, naked to the waist, dragged down the hallway.<br />
<br />
===Part 3===<br />
I was taken to the student guidance room.<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei sat her small body in the chair, with her head laid back, and lazily asked.<br />
<br />
"So, why are you naked to the waist?"<br />
<br />
"You didn't give me time to get dressed!"<br />
<br />
"Rather, quickly cough it up. Afterall I don't have free time."<br />
<br />
Although she asked the question she completely ignored it and put her feet up on the table.<br />
<br />
"No, no. I can guess. Or rather, I know you didn't do it on purpose."<br />
<br />
"Kuku, so what kind of choices did you have this time?"<br />
<br />
......After all that's true.<br />
<br />
I've met only one person, Utage-sensei, who knows the existence of the absolute choices.<br />
<br />
"I had to show either the upper half or the lower half......"<br />
<br />
"......You, so you choose the top? Geez, your a humorless guy."<br />
<br />
"Taking out my penis wouldn't be a humorous situation!"<br />
<br />
"It's no problem. At worst you would be forced to leave school."<br />
<br />
"That would be a big mistake!"<br />
<br />
"No skin off my nose, it would be someone else's problem."<br />
<br />
"I'm in front of you! I'm a student in your class!"<br />
<br />
Gu......I'm a student needing a good teacher but the only one around is this joker.<br />
<br />
"Take it a bit seriously for a moment sensei?"<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei dropped the joking manner and her expression became a bit clouded. A quiet reply is given.<br />
<br />
"However, well...... still vulgar."<br />
<br />
"Sensei......"<br />
<br />
So, as a matter of fact, sensei previously had the absolute choices.<br />
<br />
The absolute choice seems to be property that has moved through several people, from Utage-sensei, to the present holder, me.<br />
<br />
Why did it move to me? Even if I ask that she evades with things like, its not time yet, or its troublesome to answer.<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei lost her anxiety and went back to being lazy as always.<br />
<br />
"Head back. I can't not formally punish you for this. But I'll do my best so hang in there."<br />
<br />
Despite the dissatisfaction with the secretiveness, following last year it is good that the teacher for my homeroom understands, it has helped a lot.<br />
<br />
If there was no arrangement with Utage-sensei then the repetitions of eccentric behaviour would have led to suspension or worse......I'm tired of it even if I say so myself.<br />
<br />
"Ah, there is something I'm curious about."<br />
<br />
About the topic of choices, I suddenly recalled it. This morning the strange creature, Chocolat, fell from the sky.<br />
<br />
I don't know if there's a direct relationship to absolute choice, but maybe Utage-sensei who was a previous holder of it knows something.<br />
<br />
"This morning on the way to school a strange, beautiful girl fell from the sky."<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei, with faraway eyes, clapped me on the shoulder.<br />
<br />
"That's too bad......you've lost the ability to distinguish 3D from 2D."<br />
<br />
"No, no, its different."<br />
<br />
Even though I think its a wild story myself, it is unavoidably a fact.<br />
<br />
"Oh, during this time didn't you happily say 『In the galgame, if you clear the heroine route 100 times, you can get her to come out of the screen and propose to the girl. Fuhihi』"<br />
<br />
"I didn't say that! Is your memory okay?!?"<br />
<br />
"Ah, was it a 101 times?"<br />
<br />
"That's not the issue there!"<br />
<br />
"Then, 『Fuhihi sorry』 was it?"<br />
<br />
"That's not the point! Don't fake all those lines!"<br />
<br />
I've thought this all this last year, is this person really a teacher? Anyway you slice it this isn't the behaviour of a teacher.<br />
<br />
"You, what's with that stare......surely."<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei took a step back unnaturally.<br />
<br />
"It's good being in a closed room, that's your secret plan."<br />
<br />
"No, no, what are you suddenly saying."<br />
<br />
"Because you are naked to the waist in broad daylight."<br />
<br />
"That's because of you!"<br />
<br />
"Stay away pedophile."<br />
<br />
"Where's the pedophile, think of your age!"<br />
<br />
"I'm 12 years old. That's fine for a pedophile."<br />
<br />
"Don't lie like a elementary student."<br />
<br />
"It's noisy with you yelping and shouting. Well, what is it, you......"<br />
<br />
"......There's no way your a teacher, you've forgotten my name?"<br />
<br />
"Idiot, my class, hmm. I can't find it. Well, Ama......Ama......Ama........."<br />
<br />
"I was in your class last year too!"<br />
<br />
"Haha, it's bad it's bad, even as a joke Amakasa<ref>Deliberate mistake.</ref>."<br />
<br />
<nowiki>*pout*</nowiki><br />
<br />
"What," *smile*, "Is with this feeling!" <br />
<br />
I was completely made fun of!<br />
<br />
"I mean, I did say I didn't have spare time. So hurry up and say it."<br />
<br />
"No, no, this isn't going anywhere and you are to blame no matter what......"<br />
<br />
I returned to the story even while complaining.<br />
<br />
"So, there's the beautiful girl."<br />
<br />
"Yes, yes, she fell from the sky, your daydream girl."<br />
<br />
Ku......what an annoying way to talk.<br />
<br />
"She fell as a result of an absolute choice."<br />
<br />
"What was that?"<br />
<br />
Her expression changed.<br />
<br />
"......is that so?"<br />
<br />
Her face went from smiling to listless and she murmured.<br />
<br />
"Your face, do you have an idea?"<br />
<br />
Utage-sensei didn't deny it.<br />
<br />
"Well. But this, I can't just poke my nose in at a moment's notice."<br />
<br />
It was a very indecisive way of speaking. However, Utage-sensei's eyes had a serious look.<br />
<br />
"If I had to say something, it seems like the preparations for you to loose the absolute choice is complete."<br />
<br />
"What? What does that mean."<br />
<br />
The first period preliminary bell interrupted me.<br />
<br />
"It's time, return to the classroom quickly."<br />
<br />
"No sensei, I need more details."<br />
<br />
"For now I can't talk further about it."<br />
<br />
"No, but......"<br />
<br />
If its about absolute choice its a big deal since it controls my life.<br />
<br />
"Ssh, if you are too noisy I'll castrate your uvula."<br />
<br />
"That expression is a bit funny......what are you emailing?"<br />
<br />
"This? It's to Yukihira's cell, if you are not back in a minute she is allowed to burn your jacket."<br />
<br />
"What a contemptible thing to do!"<br />
<br />
No, if I think normally, just because she was told to there is no way to rule out the possibility that Yukihira would do it......no, there's no way......no, she might do it.<br />
<br />
"Um, and sent. If you tattle I'll kill you."<br />
<br />
"What the heck kind of person are you?"<br />
<br />
"Is it okay? There's 50 seconds left."<br />
<br />
"Ku, shit!"<br />
<br />
I opened the door of the student guidance room and ran full throttle down the hallway......shirtless.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Well......"<br />
<br />
I don't know the true character of the creature Chocolat and if she's integral to my absolute choice. All morning Utage-sensei's words stayed in my head, focusing on the lesson was impossible.<br />
<br />
That state didn't change even by lunchtime when I ate at my desk with several friends. I was absentminded during their conversation.<br />
<br />
"What?"<br />
<br />
Then, from the speaker above the blackboard came a voice that interrupted my thoughts.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ladies and Gentlemen, hello. It's Seikou Day Crash time.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Ah, its that time already?<br />
<br />
This program is done every lunchtime by the Broadcast Club. The MC Corner changes each day and it is quite an elaborate broadcast.<br />
<br />
Well, if my thinking is jumbled up, no answer will come out. I decided to listen to it for a change.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Well, this Monday, we've invited school celebrities to 『Poison's Mansion』></nowiki><br />
<br />
The light voice of the female MC speaks.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Today, from Second year Class 1, Yuuouji Ouka-san and Yukihira Furano-san have come.> </nowiki><br />
<br />
I look around the classroom as that is said, there's certainly no sign of them here.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Yoo-hoo, hello, I'm Yuuouji Ouka *Clapping*.></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Good evening, I am Yukihira Furano.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Yuuouji is always hyper, and why Shinichi Mori style Yukihira? These two people broadcasting together.....no, I have a bad premonition.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Yes, as everyone knows last term these two were named to the 『Reject 5』. Can you tell us how worthless that made you feel?></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC suddenly asked that rude question. Well that's her natural invective and S touch. She bluntly goes to areas that aren't normally touched upon and cuts deeply.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Yes, ah, what is this button?></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Wa-wait, don't touch that without permission!></nowiki><br />
<br />
With a bang, the sounds of the MC panicking and standing were heard.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><What, but the instrument over here is broadcasting, and it was said to not touch it.></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Then, even more so why did you push it?></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><It isn't a thing to touch?></nowiki><br />
<br />
This isn't a comedy show!<br />
<br />
As expected by Yuuouji, even with all the students listening she is very free.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Then, pull yourself together. Yukihira-san thank you very much.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The conversation has failed, Yukihira began speaking in a very theatrical tone.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ah I'd hate to brag? I didn't expect anything but yeah. The people surrounding me are worked up about it. I would have declined if I could do that. But that would be rude to the people who took great pains to choose me......I wonder if this side of me is embarrassing.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Why do I feel like she was awarded a prize?<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Well......></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC is at a loss for words. If it was me I'd give up on continuing. But she gave a small cough and continued as though nothing happened.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><The to all the students listening could the 『Reject 5』 give one word. Even if it will be worthless after all.></nowiki><br />
<br />
You are purposefully provoking them and showing your shallowness MC.<br />
<br />
However Yuuouji seemed to be entirely oblivious to the situation.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Hmm, I don't really know the 『However, it rejects!』 feeling?></nowiki><br />
<br />
That's a different meaning! The one being rejected is you!<br />
<br />
And, the same question was given to Yukihira.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><After half a year, for a person who reaches this height, there's a lot to be expected of me.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Why the condescending attitude looking down!<br />
<br />
<nowiki><......Indeed you two are unique.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Do the two of them not shake you at all? There was irritation in the MC's voice as she changed the topic.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><That reminds me, in your class is another of the 『Reject 5』. Amakusa Kanade is it?></nowiki><br />
<br />
My hand holding the chopsticks stops. It was completely a surprise attack.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Yes, it's a pity his brain is like that since his face is good, it must be a little difficult to be out in public.></nowiki><br />
<br />
I don't want that to be said by you.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ahaha, he suddenly began stripping in class today.></nowiki><br />
<br />
No, I did take it off......Yuuouji-san did you have to say it?<br />
<br />
<nowiki><He suddenly started stripping in the classroom......is Amakusa-san a flasher?></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><What? No, I think its different than that. I think he just suddenly wanted to take it off.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Isn't that a flasher?!<br />
<br />
<nowiki><He cannot live without a mosaic already.></nowiki><br />
<br />
It's like saying I'm an addict or something.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><As a classmate, I feel anxious for his future.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Then close your mouth now!<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Then, next week shouldn't Amakusacchi appear?></nowiki><br />
<br />
Yuuouji......why did you add that statement to this flow.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Then because you introduced him with so much trouble, next week we'll see if we can have the despicable, trashy, rascal Amakusa-san as our guest.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC is on a roll. In the confusion of the moment I've been terribly slandered.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Yes, then lets call him immediately.></nowiki><br />
<br />
In this broadcast it's said that the guest of the week will introduce an acquaintance. It's a rip-off of a certain daytime program. It's on a roll, usually you tell the person in question ahead of time.<br />
<br />
"Hmm?"<br />
<br />
While thinking that, my cell began vibrating. Why do they know my number......<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Hello, is this Amakusa Kanade-san?></nowiki><br />
<br />
Because I had no choice but to go with the flow I reluctantly pushed the call button. The MC's lively voice jumped out.<br />
<br />
"Ah......that's right."<br />
<br />
It seems the other side is in loudspeaker mode, almost simultaneously with my remarks the speaker repeated it. <br />
<br />
In other words all the students in the school can hear me as I talk.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Did you hear the current broadcast?></nowiki><br />
<br />
"Yeah, well."<br />
<br />
It's safe. If I refuse gently there's no problem.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Well Amakusa-san, though you are a pervert, why did it extend to doing such a goddamn unpleasant act?></nowiki><br />
<br />
Ku, what a blunt way of speaking. But it's useless, I need to calm down. If I get upset it is what they expect. <br />
<br />
I have to answer innocuously since they aren't neutral-<br />
<br />
<br />
[CHOOSE ① "Uhehe, I wanted to take off the bottoms in reality" ② "Gehehe, now, what color are your panties?]<br />
<br />
<br />
......Say that in return?<br />
<br />
However, I can't do anything but say it. If a choice appears, there's nothing I can do but say it.<br />
<br />
"Uhehe, I wanted to take off the bottoms in reality."<br />
<br />
I said it while almost crying. A complaint that differed by not a single word flowed from the speakers.<br />
<br />
Here you go MC, I can't expect anything but a counter. If I fend off the gag I might get away with a shallow wound.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><......Now, shall I question the two here in earnest?></nowiki><br />
<br />
It is being ignored!<br />
<br />
"Wait a minute!"<br />
<br />
Though my voice is raised, the mobile is already cut off.<br />
<br />
"......Amakusa, as I thought."<br />
<br />
My consciousness is pulled back by the voice of a friend and I looked around the class. The boys are laughing with wry smiles while the girls are pulling back completely.<br />
<br />
Aside from the top, it seems the bottom half has exceeded the borderline where they can laugh unenthusiastically.<br />
<br />
"No, it's not like that......"<br />
<br />
The moment I extended a hand out to explain myself. All the girls, together like in the army, looked away.<br />
<br />
"Ahaha......there is no god in this world."<br />
<br />
While giving out those dangerous words I put my face in my desk.<br />
<br />
I must dream a dream to access the traffic accident right? Surely my body is in the hospital for quite some time. Yes, I must be there dreaming this unpleasant dream. But it seems like I'm really here. I wish I was in a parallel word or comic but my common sense says I'm here with women showing the whites of their eyes looking at me. Ufufu.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><-----------></nowiki><br />
<br />
The show had been continuing from the speaker all along but I didn't absorb any of it.<br />
<br />
Before long it all became very vague as I sank into the sea named escapism.<br />
<br />
<br />
"Haa!"<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Huh......Really?......Indeed></nowiki><br />
<br />
After a few minutes as I came back to the world at last, I could hear the voice of the MC which seemed satisfied.<br />
<br />
"So, then because it approaches the end of lunch today......><br />
<br />
The voice gave the impression of wanting to finish early, a desire transmitted clearly. While I was in my trip I didn't follow how the talk with Yuuouji and Yukihira was going. Even with her sharp tongue it was heavy going with those two as opponents.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><That's the story of the boil on John's ass in front of an audience.></nowiki><br />
<br />
Did you talk about such a worthless thing!<br />
<br />
Following the regretful Yuuouji, Yukihira's voice seemed dignified.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Finally, I have a proposal for you but I wonder if it is good.></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ha, yes, what is it?></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC seems wary.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><First of all, I think the character at the end should be you.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The young woman is saying something strange.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><......Ha?......That's......I'm not sure I understand.></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><The listeners have become used to your, frankly speaking, vicious tongue and mannerism.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The tone of Yukihira was without any feeling in it like always, but what was that? It's almost like there's different emotions in it. It's angry?<br />
<br />
<nowiki><By the way, today you made remarks about my chest being undeveloped...... Moreover it was three times.></nowiki><br />
<br />
While I was gone to the other world, there was such a development?<br />
<br />
Indeed, Yukihira's chest can't be complimented as abundant. It bothered her.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><No, it was part of the material......></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Material? It was bad enough that even me who has an easy laugh wasn't able to laugh.></nowiki><br />
<br />
No, you are a person easily provoked to laughter......<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Anyway, if you mock other people's tits, you shouldn't think it would end safe and sound.></nowiki><br />
<br />
No, what is with that way of speaking, it sounds like there's another meaning......and be prudent about saying tits.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Therefore the main subject is how to break the inertia, I thought of a plan for a new era. The name is 『Sow MC's Moe Pig Paradise</nowiki><ref>The term hoihoi is used, which means something that can draw in lots of viewers who love something. In this case people who love Moe.</ref>』.<nowiki>></nowiki><br />
<br />
What is that......incidentally, there are various opinions on the definition and origin of Moe Pig, it is for Otaku's who agonize about beautiful girls in anime and manga.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><In response to the master's small erotic request we will turn you into a sow of absolute obedience by doing various things.></nowiki><br />
<br />
No, no, that's late night radio, you can't do that type of stuff during the day on the school broadcast system.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><No, that's impossible to choose. It's a school broadcast.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC has almost the same impression as me. That's a fairly normal reaction for a person.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><You seem to misunderstand something, it's already chosen, sow.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC is suddenly treated like a sow.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Now, stupid sharp tongued daughter, shall we being the true sow training?></nowiki><br />
<br />
There was a bang from someone standing up.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ah, umm, Yukihira-san? Why? Your eyes are scary.></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC was completely frightened. There was no trace of the poison tongued character remaining.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Yu-Yuuouji-san, please help this person lie down for a bit.></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki>*sleepy breathing*</nowiki><br />
<br />
Seriously, you have the nerve to sleep soundly during a live broadcast. Moreover, you have only stopped talking about the boil on John's ass a minute ago.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Fuaaa......the broadcast has already ended?></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Roughly, it ended in a good place Yuuouji-san. Can you press down on the sow here for a moment?></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><Eh? I don't understand why you want it but yes!></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><What? Before I knew it my hands were tied behind my back!? Let go!></nowiki><br />
<br />
The MC seems to have been restrained. Yuuouji's physical strength is overwhelming, and a normal girl can't compete against it at all.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Cho, afu, Yuuouji-san what are you doing?></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki> <Hmm, I'm not sure why you are frightened, its just a relaxing massage.> </nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><No, you don't have to do that, just release me......what, just a moment, please stop, I hate it, ahh!></nowiki><br />
<br />
The voice of the broadcaster flowed out. After that the boys, who weren't listening to the broadcast as they chatted with friends, stopped and began to listen attentively.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><The sides of Melon melon!></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><No, wait a moment, there...... I hate, why, is it so good, an!></nowiki><br />
<br />
This is......erotic. It was being broadcast through the entire school. I can't help but say, Yuuouji, do more! <br />
<br />
<nowiki><Aaa, you are unusually sensitive. Ahaha, interesting, interesting!></nowiki><br />
<br />
Yuuouji continued happily.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ah......stop it......stop!></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki><It's useless sow. This studio is completely locked. Even if you shout and cry, outside help can't reach here.></nowiki><br />
<br />
You, you are the villain here.<br />
<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Hii......hii......fuu></nowiki><br />
<br />
The training went for a dozens(?) of seconds but in the end the MC lost.<br />
<br />
The female MC was ready to talk properly.<br />
<br />
As opposed to her, Yukihira was indifferent but nevertheless her voice had a small bit of satisfaction in it.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><You bark in a fairly good voice for the first time. That's it sow, keep going.></nowiki><br />
<br />
She declared, there's definitely no next time.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Ahaha, have you gone a bit too far? Her whole body is affected. The supplement drink.....there's none left. She drank all of the <br />
『AbazurenZ』?></nowiki><br />
<br />
Stooopp!<br />
<br />
<nowiki><This can't go any longer. It's unavoidable, should I end it?></nowiki><br />
<br />
Yukihira used a theatrical tone into the microphone.<br />
<br />
<nowiki><Everyone listen to this. Starting next week is the new show 『Sow MC Moe Pig Paradise』. In addition, 『Yukihira Furano's All the sows with <br />
tits bigger than B's should die off』 will be broadcast, so wash your tits and apply young ladies.></nowiki><br />
<br />
<nowiki>*click*</nowiki><br />
<br />
The voice was cut abruptly. Immediately after that random classical music flowed from the speakers.<br />
<br />
......This, isn't this what's called a 'broadcasting accident'?<br />
<br />
It's awful. It's too awful. Year 2 Class 1 is the called the school's most regrettable class.<br />
<br />
The eyes of several classmates were on me. The eyes seem to be saying you are the same to me.<br />
<br />
You're wrong, you're all wrong. I'm an ordinary person. Because of these hateful absolute choices, its true I do a few small strange actions, but I'm an ordinary high school boy.<br />
<br />
However, calling out in my mind doesn't get consideration. With the awkward atmosphere, I ate the rest of my lunch, but there was no taste <br />
to it.<br />
<br />
<br />
As the lunch break was about to end, Yuuouji and Yukihira returned.<br />
<br />
"Yah-hoo, I'm back!"<br />
<br />
"As a matter of fact its incomprehensible."<br />
<br />
Both seem to have been squeezed hard in the staff office.<br />
<br />
Yukihira doesn't seem to be reflecting on it and said that with a cool face.<br />
<br />
"It's amusing. I thought in this country freedom of expression was allowed."<br />
<br />
"Repeatedly calling someone a sow is not freedom of expression!"<br />
<br />
"It's a little piggish joke."<br />
<br />
"What on earth type of line of jokes is that!"<br />
<br />
"Little piggish jokes."<br />
<br />
"What black jokes<ref>pun of piggish(my tl) 'butakku' and black 'burakku'</ref> are you saying you feel like!"<br />
<br />
"By the way, in case of black piggish jokes, it becomes blackpiggish jokes which isn't easy to say."<br />
<br />
"From the bottom of my heart stop, it's good."<br />
<br />
"Even the staff members of the broadcasting oinked a complaint."<br />
<br />
"Making them feel like a pig by force!"<br />
<br />
Yukihira was completing the first stage of the joke when Yuuouji pulled on my sleeve.<br />
<br />
"Hey hey Amacchi. Look look!"<br />
<br />
In her hand she held some photographs.<br />
<br />
"After the broadcast we took some photo's and printed them out."<br />
<br />
The first one. Was a picture of the MC with Yuuouji and Yukihira on both sides and was an ordinary picture. It's worrisome that the girl MC's expression is a bit hollow.<br />
<br />
I mean, after such a thing, you took a picture......<br />
<br />
It continued. The second picture.<br />
<br />
"Yuuouji. What's......this."<br />
<br />
In it the female MC has a smiling expression of ecstasy while her legs are completely spread in an M shape. Though the angle of the picture doesn't let you see under the skirt, it is a brutal situation.<br />
<br />
"Ahaha, after the 『AbazurenZ』 was given she became like this."<br />
<br />
"Seriously don't just give love aphrodisiacs!"<br />
<br />
It continued in the third picture.<br />
<br />
What's this...is it the stagehands of the broadcast club? The four men are queued up uniformly without energy and their faces were ashen.<br />
<br />
"Yuuouji......this?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, we handed out to everyone 『Life Candy』's 『Chapter of the Postmortem』."<br />
<br />
"Fire that fellow immediately!"<br />
<br />
"Yes yes, there's one more piece to report."<br />
<br />
Like a grade-school kid with something to report, Yuuouji raises her hand while her eyes shine brilliantly.<br />
<br />
"Yes, go ahead."<br />
<br />
I encouraged her recklessly.<br />
<br />
"You know, because I din't want you to have a preconception, it was presumed the Product Development Department made these. Actually the prototypes brought today......"<br />
<br />
What? Yuuouji had an unusual pretentious way of talking.<br />
<br />
"It was all made by me!"<br />
<br />
"It's you?"<br />
<br />
<br />
Well, even though he knew already, he felt it again anew.<br />
<br />
Yukihira Furano and Yuuouji Ouka.<br />
<br />
It's natural that they are rejected.<br />
<br />
===Part 4===<br />
"Phew......"<br />
<br />
I reached the entrance of my house at last and sighed unintentionally. I'm tired......today was a tiring day. In addition to the rush of choices, there was the tiresome combo of Yukihira and Yuuouji.<br />
<br />
However, at my home when I'm tired and open the door, there's no family to greet me.<br />
<br />
Because my mother went with my father when he transferred, as of now, there is only one resident in the Amakusa household. It's like I'm a guy in a galgame setting.<br />
<br />
It's time to prepare dinner, while holding that housewife like thought, I opened the door.<br />
<br />
"Supi."<br />
<br />
......What is that.<br />
<br />
"Supi."<br />
<br />
......There's the cause, someone's sleeping.<br />
<br />
They're sleeping. A horribly deep sleep. Someone is sleeping in my hallway.<br />
<br />
I don't understand......I don't know how this is happening. When? When was I hit with 'eye panic'<ref>Medapani, according to UltimateOTL's translation it's a spell in Dragon Quest</ref>?<br />
<br />
My head was still fully confused but my body moved on its own. Crouching down and crowding close, I shook their body strongly.<br />
<br />
That person slowly sat up while rubbing their eyes and looked at me with their sleepy eyes.<br />
<br />
"Fumyu......who is it?"<br />
<br />
"I want to hear that!"<br />
<br />
However, their identity was obvious. The fluffy blond hair, the small body, and soft voice......I had definitely met this creature, Chocolat, this morning.<br />
<br />
"Ah, Kanade-san isn't it? Welcome home!<ref>Out of order she said: おかえりなさいっ/okaerinasai which is welcome home, its normally the polite auto-reponse to his next phrase</ref>"<br />
<br />
"A-aah, I'm back<ref>He says: ただいま/tadaima which means 'right now' or 'just now' as in I just got home, normally said first when you step in the house</ref>.......you said welcome home!"<br />
<br />
No, a smiling face is too natural, in a place that's natural, so that I ended up replying to it.<br />
<br />
Calm down. It's too much to figure out at once.<br />
<br />
"First of all......first of all, you, how did you enter my house?"<br />
<br />
Before the purpose of this person, is the physical problem. The key used a moment ago is definitely in my pocket and the duplicate is in the house.<br />
<br />
Chocolat explained with a laugh and a smile.<br />
<br />
"I took an impression with a special clay and got a duplicate key made from a key merchant."<br />
<br />
......That's a serious crime.<br />
<br />
"Kanade-san what's the problem? You complexion looks bad."<br />
<br />
"That's beside the point. The point is your behavior."<br />
<br />
I understood. This person was simply a trespasser. It's not the time to leisurely ask her. You have no choice but to get them out by force. Just as I reached out with determination to do it-<br />
<br />
"I came to help release Kanade-san's 『Curse』."<br />
<br />
"Wh......at?"<br />
<br />
I stopped moving.<br />
<br />
"The curse......the absolute choice thing?"<br />
<br />
I felt intuitively that's what it meant. As expected Chocolat deeply nodded her head.<br />
<br />
Seriously......Indeed Utage-sensei said it meant the preparation to end the choices.<br />
<br />
"Now now, since you are talking about that, for now lets go deeper inside."<br />
<br />
"No, why are you the one saying that!"<br />
<br />
It's fishy......its very fishy. But, the absolute choices might be released. When I heard that it became impossible to drive her out immediately.<br />
<br />
"Then, lets go."<br />
<br />
Chocolat displayed the tension of going on an excursion as I guided her into the living room.<br />
<br />
"......What's this."<br />
<br />
The room temperate was exquisite, the fragrant smell of red tea tickled my nose, and the delightful sight of handmade cookies. The finest relaxation was prepared.<br />
<br />
"Kanade-san was slow in coming back so I prepared."<br />
<br />
Those are a wife's words, normally they would make a person feel happy but it felt weird hearing it from a stranger.<br />
<br />
"Please don't hesitate, go ahead."<br />
<br />
"No, why are you the one saying that......"<br />
<br />
I sat down on the sofa as urged and reached for the steaming tea.<br />
<br />
"How is it?"<br />
<br />
"Oh, good."<br />
<br />
Chocolat's face suddenly shone happily. Additionally the strand on top of her head started wagging.<br />
<br />
"That's right, that is very high class."<br />
<br />
No, I know since I'm the one who bought it.<br />
<br />
Chocolat continued by handing out a candy dish with cookies on it.<br />
<br />
"How are they?~"<br />
<br />
"Ah, good."<br />
<br />
Again her face suddenly brightened.<br />
<br />
"That's right isn't it, they take time and effort to make."<br />
<br />
No, I know because I baked them.<br />
<br />
"That doesn't matter......lets get down to business."<br />
<br />
I encouraged her to sit on the sofa on the other side.<br />
<br />
"Yes, what is it?"<br />
<br />
As I waited for her to sit I opened my mouth.<br />
<br />
"Let us avoid a roundabout story......you, know of a way to remove the absolute choices?"<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
Chocolat nodded easily.<br />
<br />
Seriously......it is possible to end it? The thing that's haunted me this last year?<br />
<br />
"I'm begging, tell me!"<br />
<br />
I couldn't resist my excitement and rose from my seat partly while asking.<br />
<br />
"Kanade-san, please settle down. I don't know it."<br />
<br />
"Then who on earth does?"<br />
<br />
When I asked my question, Chocolat followed her own pace until the end.<br />
<br />
"It's God."<br />
<br />
"........................Yes?"<br />
<br />
==Translator's Notes and References==<br />
<references/><br />
<br />
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| Return to [[Ore_no_Nounai_Sentakushi_ga,_Gakuen_Love_Come_o_Zenryoku_de_Jama_Shiteiru|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[NouCome:_Volume_1_Interlude_1|Interlude 1]]<br />
|-<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Mahou_Sensou&diff=370572Mahou Sensou2014-07-18T15:17:21Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
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<div>{{Status|Active}}<br />
<br />
{{Teaser|English}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Mahou_Sensou_cover_vol_1.jpg|thumb|250px]]<br />
'''''Mahou Sensou''''' (魔法戦争, ''Magical Warfare'') is a Japanese light novel series written by [[:Category:Hisashi Suzuki|Hisashi Suzuki]] and illustrated by Luna-Lia.<br />
Published by Media Factory under their MF Bunko J label, the series currently has seven volumes.<br />
An anime adaptation has been announced and started airing in January 2014<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
In this modern magic action story, Takeshi Nanase is an ordinary high school boy who has a somewhat dark past. Due to certain circumstances, he formed a "fake" couple with his childhood friend Kurumi Isoshima, but otherwise, he lives a normal life. However, one day, he comes across a girl named Mui Aiba, in a uniform he has never seen before, collapsed on the school campus. This encounters changes Takeshi's destiny completely. Mui tells Takeshi that she is a magician, and she apologizes, for she turned Takeshi into a magician, too. What Takeshi once knew as one world is actually two—the world where magicians live and the world where humans live.<br />
<br />
Source: ANN<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== Format Standards ===<br />
<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
* [[Format guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
* [[Mahou Sensou:Terminology and Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
=== [[Mahou Sensou:Registration Page|Registration page]] ===<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Mahou Sensou:Registration Page|register]] the chapters they want to work on.'''<br />
<br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the translation, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=6434 Teaser Feedback Thread].<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
* 6 November 2013 - Project page created.<br />
<br />
== The ''Mahou Sensou'' series by Hisashi Suzuki ==<br />
<br />
==== Volume 1 ====<br />
[[File:Mahou_Sensou_cover_vol_1.jpg|thumb|150px]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Magic Girl in Summer]] (32/58 pages complete)<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Collapsing World & Ghost Trailer]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - SUBARU Magic School in The Mirror]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Wizard's Rule]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 1 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
==== Volume 2 ====<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Grade 1-C in Magic school]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Aspect is Twilight]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Magic Festival and Love Fortune-telling]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - A Battle of the Collapsing World]]<br />
:* [[Mahou Sensou:Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
== Project Staff ==<br />
* Project Administrator:<br />
* Project Manager:<br />
<br />
==== Translators ====<br />
* [[User:Jin ssi|Jin ssi]]<br />
* [[User:13thdan| 13thdan]] RIP<br />
* [[User:MargoLol|MargoLol]]<br />
<br />
==== Editors ====<br />
* [[User:KanzakiAria|KanzakiAria]] (that guy up there... hm)<br />
* [[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
<br />
* 魔法戦争 I - November 25, 2011 ISBN 978-4-8401-4305-9<br />
* 魔法戦争 II - March 23, 2012 ISBN 978-4-8401-4530-5<br />
* 魔法戦争 III - August 24, 2012 ISBN 978-4-8401-4678-4<br />
* 魔法戦争 IV - December 25, 2012 ISBN 978-4-8401-4937-2<br />
* 魔法戦争 V - March 25, 2013 ISBN 978-4-8401-5138-2<br />
* 魔法戦争 VI - August 25, 2013 ISBN 978-4-8401-5284-6<br />
* 魔法戦争 VII - January 9, 2014 ISBN 978-4-04-066205-3<br />
* 魔法戦争 VIII - March 25, 2014 ISBN 978-4-04-066378-4<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hisashi Suzuki]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Ore_no_Nounai_Sentakushi_ga,_Gakuen_Love_Come_o_Zenryoku_de_Jama_Shiteiru&diff=370559Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru2014-07-18T14:28:04Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Status|Active}}<br />
<br />
{{Teaser|English}}<br />
<br />
[[File: NoucomeVol1_cover.jpg|286px|thumb|Volume 1 Cover]]<br />
<br />
The light-novel series '''Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru''' (俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している, short "NouCome", lit. "My Mental Choices are Completely Interfering with my School Romantic Comedy") is written by [[:Category:Takeru Kasukabe|Takeru Kasukabe]], illustrated by Yukiwo and published by Kadokawa Shoten. To this day it consists of 8 volumes (June 2014). It also has a manga and anime adaption. The anime, consisting of 10 episodes, aired from October 9th 2013 to December 11, 2013. The manga has been running in Famitsu Comic Clear since Febuary 1st, 2013.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
Kanade Amakusa is a high school student who is suffering from a curse called "Absolute Choices" (絶対選択肢, Zettai Sentakushi). This curse requires him to select an action from a list of two or three options that appear before him at any time, and has no control over what choices appear. Many of them are weird or perverse and as a result, the curse has tainted his reputation with his classmates and other people around him, making his life very difficult. However, one day, a choice he makes on his way home from school causes a mysterious, beautiful young girl to fall from the sky. Amakusa discovers that she was sent from the God World to assist him in completing a series of missions given to him directly by God himself. After completing these missions, the "Absolute Choices" curse will be lifted from Amakusa; but should he fail in completing any of the missions, he will be stuck with the curse forever.<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
* December 15th, 2013 - '''Volume 1 Chapter 1 completed'''<br />
* October 29th, 2013 - '''NouCome Teaser Page started'''<br />
<br />
'''Older updates''' can be found '''[['''NouCome Updates|here]]'''.<br />
<br />
== Formalities ==<br />
=== [[NouCome Registration Page|Registration Page]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[NouCome Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on.'''<br />
<br />
=== Format Standards ===<br />
'''Every chapter must after editing conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
<br />
* [[Format guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
* [[NouCome Specific Guidelines|NouCome Specific Translating/Editing Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
=== Changes to Main Page ===<br />
Before making changes to the main page, please ask a person in charge.<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<!--THE FOLLOWING CODE IS INTENTIONAL AND CHANGES MAY DAMAGE IT. SEE http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User:Cautr FOR MORE INFORMATION--><br />
<br />
== The "''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/My_Mental_Choices_are_Completely_Interfering_with_my_School_Romantic_Comedy Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru]''" series by Takeru Kasukabe ==<br />
If you enjoyed the story, why don't you tell us in the [http://baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=5763 Feedback Thread]?<br />
<br /><br /><br />
<div style="float: left; width:100%;"><br />
<div style="float: left; margin: 5px 20px"><br />
=== Volume 1 ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"> <br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1: Amakusa Kanade's bitter daily life]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Interlude 1|Interlude 1: A Certain Possibility's Story.]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2: Yukihira Furano's True Heart - 60/94]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Interlude 2|Interlude 2:]] <br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3: Yuuouji Ouka's New World]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Interlude 3|Interlude 3:]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]] <br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width:200px;"> <br />
[[File: NoucomeVol1_cover.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 1]] <br />
</div> <br />
</div> <br />
<br />
<div style="float: left; margin: 5px 20px"><br />
<br />
=== Volume 2 ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"><br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 2 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width:200px;"><br />
[[File: NouCome2.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 2]] <br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="float: left; width:100%;"><br />
<div style="float: left; margin: 5px 20px"><br />
=== Volume 3 ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"> <br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 3 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 3 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width:200px;"><br />
[[File: NoucomeVol03_cover.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 3]] <br />
</div> <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="float: left; margin: 5px 20px"><br />
=== Volume 4 ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"> <br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 4 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width:200px;"><br />
[[File: NouComeVol4_cover.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 4]] <br />
</div> <br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="float: left; width:100%;"><br />
<div style="float: left; margin: 5px 20px"><br />
=== Volume 5 ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"> <br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 5 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width:200px;"><br />
[[File: NouComeVol5_cover.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 5]] <br />
</div> <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="float: left; margin: 5px 20px"><br />
=== Volume 6 ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"> <br />
:* [[NouCome: Volume 6 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width:200px;"><br />
[[File: NouComeVol6_cover.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 6]] <br />
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=== Volume 7 ===<br />
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:* [[NouCome: Volume 7 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
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[[File: NouComeVol7_cover.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|Volume 7]] <br />
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=== Short Stories ===<br />
<div style="float: left; width:380px;"><br />
:* [[NouCome: Amakusa Kanade's bitter daily life|Amakusa Kanade's bitter daily life]]<br />
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<br /><br /><br />
<br />
== Project Staff ==<br />
* Project Administrator: <br />
* Project Manager:[[User:Talinnilat|Talinnilat]] <br />
<br />
=== Translators ===<br />
:* [[User:Talinnilat|Talinnilat]]<br />
<br />
=== Editors ===<br />
*[[user:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している (February 1st, 2012) ISBN 978-4-04-100181-3<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 2 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している2 (June 1st, 2012) ISBN 978-4-04-100307-7<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 3 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している3 (November 1st, 2012) ISBN 978-4-04-100541-5<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 4 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している4 (April 1st, 2013) ISBN 978-4-04-100720-4<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 5 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している5 (June 29th, 2013) ISBN 978-4-04-100891-1<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 6 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している6 (October 1st, 2013) ISBN 978-4-04-101022-8<br />
* Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru 7 俺の脳内選択肢が、学園ラブコメを全力で邪魔している7 (January 31st, 2014) ISBN 978-4-04-101197-3<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Takeru Kasukabe]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User:Talinnilat&diff=368905User:Talinnilat2014-07-12T15:04:25Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>I'm working on translating the first volume of Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru.<br />
<br />
I've taken some breaks to improve my japanese grammar and will be taking more off and on as I work through some exercises. In the meantime I might put up some teasers of other projects that I hope someone will pick up.<br />
<br />
== Rune Troopers ==<br />
<br><br />
June 12th, 2014 - Created Rune Troopers Teaser Page<br />
<br />
Do you mind If I help out as an edit for the project - shadowmaster850<br />
For Rune Troopers? Sure, but I posted on the forums that I won't be too active on that one because the grammar is pretty hard still for me. I might get a page or two done this week though.<br />
Sorry I was not specific, I was taking about ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru.</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Rental_Magica&diff=366788Rental Magica2014-07-06T17:20:03Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Status|Halted}}<br />
<br />
[[Image:レンタルマギカ第一巻.jpg|thumb|Volume 01 Cover]]<br />
<br />
Rental Magica is a light novel series by [[:Category:Makoto Sanda|Makoto Sanda]]. It has been running in Kadokawa's ''The Sneaker'' since 2004 and has since reached twenty four volumes(Including 1 Side-Story Volume) and spawned an anime series.<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
<br />
There is more magic in the world than people think.<br />
<br />
There is more mystery in the world than people think.<br />
<br />
The incredibly shy and weak high school student Iba Itsuki inherits his father's magician dispatch company, "Astral," after his father's disappearance outlasts seven years and his father is taken for dead. However, he has trouble getting used to the work involved with being president of the company, and also has a hard time dealing with his employees' wild personalities.<br />
<br />
<br />
''You can tell us what you think of the series by '''[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=1895 polling here and discussing it here]'''.''<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
=== [[Rental Magica: Registration Page|Registration]]===<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Rental Magica: Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Rental Magica:Guidelines|Project Specific Terminology and Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*10 September 2012<br />
**Volume 02 Prologue Complete<br />
*09 September 2012<br />
**Volume 01 Author's Word Complete<br />
**Volume 01 Epilogue Complete<br />
**Volume 01 Chapter 7 Complete<br />
*27 October 2011<br />
**Volume 01 Chapter 6 complete<br />
*22 July 2011<br />
**Volume 01 chapter 5 complete<br />
*8 June 2011<br />
**Volume 01 chapter 4 complete<br />
*29 May 2011<br />
**Volume 01 chapter 3 complete<br />
<br />
Older updates can be found [[Rental Magica:Updates|here]].<br />
<br />
==''Rental Magica'' by Makoto Sanda==<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 1: ~Magicians for Rent! ([[Rental Magica Volume 1|Full Text]]/ [[http://www.mediafire.com/?vbyaewszl1rbflx PDF]])===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Magicians for Rent!]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician's Offer]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - <Night> of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Taboo of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - Shape of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - End of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Chapter 7|Chapter 7 - Eye of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 1: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 2: Magicians V.S. Alchemists!===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Inheritance of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Flying Ship of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Magicians and Wings]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Magicians and Homunculi]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - Home of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - The Magician and the Story of Long Ago]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Chapter 7|Chapter 7 - Magicians V.S. Alchemists!]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 2: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 3: Magicians, Assemble!===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 3: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 3: Chapter 1|Magicians for Rent!]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 3: Chapter 2|The Magician and the Flower Thief]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 3: Chapter 3|The Magician and the Summer Festival]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 3: Chapter 4|The Magician and the Portrait]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 3: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 4: The Dragon and the Magician===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Magician and the Senior]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Town of the Magician's Choosing]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Pause|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Magicians in the Mist]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The Magician and the Changeling]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Pause (2)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Dragon and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - The Magician and the Fairy Eye]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 4: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 5: The Fate of the Magician!===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 5: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 5: Chapter 1|The Magician and the Sea of Summer]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 5: Chapter 2|The Magician and the School Ghost Story]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 5: Chapter 3|The Magician and the Tanabata Festival - Part 1]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 5: Chapter 4|The Magician and the Tanabata Festival - Part 2]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 5: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 6: Magicians in Training!===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Chapter 1|The Magician and the Red Lance]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Chapter 2|The Magician and Christmas]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Chapter 3|The Magician and the Blood of Solomon]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Chapter 4|The Magician and the Bonds of Solomon]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Special Section|Special Supplement: Basic Theory of ''Rental Magica'']]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 6: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 7: The Demon Festival and the Magician (Part 1)===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Magician that Doesn't Go Home]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician's Hometown]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Pause|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Hunter of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The Magician and the Mortal Hill]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Pause (2)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Laughing Demon and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Pause (3)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 7: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 8: The Demon Festival and the Magician (Part 2)===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Pause|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - The Magician and the Beginning of the Festival]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Chapter 7|Chapter 7 - The Stone and the Stage and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Chapter 8|Chapter 8 - The Magician and the Shadow of the Snake]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Pause (2)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Chapter 9|Chapter 9 - The Magician and the Demon that is a God]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Pause (3)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Chapter 10|Chapter 10 - The Magician and the End of the Festival]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Chapter 11|Chapter 11 - The Magician and the Demon's Dream]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Epilogue|Epilouge]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 8: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 9: The Magician's Classmate===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 9: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 9: Chapter 1|The Magician and the Spiriting Away]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 9: Chapter 2|The Magician's Illness]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 9: Chapter 3|The Magician's Closing Ceremony]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 9: Chapter 4|The Magician and the Aquapolis]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 9: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 10: Vampires V.S. Magicians!===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Magician, a Second Year!]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician's Secret Symbol]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Pause|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Magician's Offer II]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The Magician and the Night-Colored Woman]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Magician and the Monster]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - Vampires V.S. Magicians!]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 10: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 11: The Magician of the Fairy Metropolis===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Prolouge|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Magicians, to England]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Pause|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Magician Murder Mystery]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Pause (2)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Tower of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Inquisition of the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Magician's Defeat]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 11: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 12: The Magician's Memory===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 12: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 12: Chapter 1|The Magician's Investigation!]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 12: Chapter 2|The Magician's Supplementary Classes]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 12: Chapter 3|The Magician's Promise]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 12: Chapter 4|The Magician's Meeting]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 12: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 13: The Olden Day Magicians===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Lending Magicians]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Ghost City and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Pause|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Magician's Secret Poison]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The Dragon Egg and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Pause (2)|Pause]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Magician that Doesn't Use Magic]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Epilogue 1|Epilogue (after)]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Epilogue 2|Epilogue (before)]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 13: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 14: The Magician's Little Sister===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 14: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 14: Chapter 1|The Magician's Home Visit]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 14: Chapter 2|The Magician's Confession]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 14: Chapter 3|The Magician's Summer Vacation]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 14: Chapter 4|The Magician's Blind Snake]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 14: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 15: The Magician of the Old Capital===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Field Trip and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician's Instructor]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Magician's Production]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - What the Magician Must Protect]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Shattered Everyday Life and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 15: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 16: The Fallen Dragon and the Magician===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Magician in the Storm]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician and the Evil Miracle]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Magician and the Dragon of Degeneration]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The One Who Protects the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Red-Colored World and the Magician]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 16 Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 17: The Silver Knight and the Magician===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Magician of the Spring]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Magician's Blue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Magician's Decision]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The Magician's Trust]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - The Battle of the Magicians]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 17: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 18: The White Magician===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 18: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 19: The Magician's Little Sister, again===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 19: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 19: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Magician's Little Sister, again]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 19: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician's Punishment]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 19: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Magician's Memories]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 19: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 20: The Magicians of the Riot===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Magician's Meeting]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Magician's Calculations]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The Great Magician's Battle -Opening-]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - The Non-Magicians]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - Personal Battles]]<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 20: Author's Word|Author's Word]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 21: The Sichuan Magician===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 21: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
===Rental Magica Volume 22: The Last Magician===<br />
::*[[Rental Magica Volume 22: Novel Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
'''INACTIVE'''<br />
:* [[User:Amazing Buffalo|Amazing Buffalo]]<br />
<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
:* [[User:Akirina|Akirina]]<br />
<br />
All who are willing to help translate are welcome.<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
:*[[User:Darn2k|Darn2k]]<br />
:*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcome.<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
<br />
#''Rental Magica: ~Magicians for Rent!'' レンタルマギカ ～魔法使い、貸します! (August 2004, ISBN 978-4-04-424906-9)<br />
#''Rental Magica: Magicians V.S. Alchemists!'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使いV.S.錬金術師! (March 2005, ISBN 978-4-04-424907-6)<br />
#''Rental Magica: Magicians, Assemble!'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使い、集う! (July 2005, ISBN 978-4-04-424908-3)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Dragon and the Magician'' レンタルマギカ 竜と魔法使い (November 2005, ISBN 978-4-04-424910-6)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Fate of the Magician!'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使いの宿命! (December 2005, ISBN 978-4-04-424909-0)<br />
#''Rental Magica: Magicians in Training!'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使い、修行中! (June 2006, ISBN 978-4-04-424911-3)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Demon Festival and the Magician'' (Part 1) レンタルマギカ 鬼の祭りと魔法使い(上) (October 2006, ISBN 978-4-04-424912-0)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Demon Festival and the Magician'' (Part 2) レンタルマギカ 鬼の祭りと魔法使い(下) (November 2006, ISBN 978-4-04-424913-7)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magician's Classmate'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使いのクラスメイト (December 2006, ISBN 978-4-04-424914-4)<br />
#''Rental Magica: Vampires V.S Magicians!'' レンタルマギカ 吸血鬼V.S.魔法使い! (July 2007, ISBN 978-4-04-424915-1)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magician of the Fairy Metropolis '' レンタルマギカ 妖都の魔法使い (October 2007, ISBN 978-4-04-424916-8)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magician's Memory'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使いの記憶 (January 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-424918-2)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Olden Day Magicians'' レンタルマギカ ありし日の魔法使い (April 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-424919-9)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magician's Little Sister'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使いの妹 (August 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-424920-5)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magician of the Old Capital'' レンタルマギカ 旧き都の魔法使い (March 2009, ISBN 978-4-04-424921-2)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Fallen Dragon and the Magician'' レンタルマギカ 滅びし竜と魔法使い (July 2009, ISBN 978-4-04-424922-9)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Silver Knight and the Magician'' レンタルマギカ 銀の騎士と魔法使い (February 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-424923-6)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The White Magician'' レンタルマギカ 白の魔法使い (July 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-424924-3)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magician's Little Sister, again'' レンタルマギカ 魔法使いの妹、再び (February 2011, ISBN 978-4-04-424925-0)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Magicians of the Riot'' レンタルマギカ 争乱の魔法使いたち (August 2011, ISBN 978-4-04-424927-4)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Sichuan Magician'' レンタルマギカ 死線の魔法使いたち (February 2012, ISBN 978-4-04-424926-7)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Last Magician'' レンタルマギカ 最後の魔法使いたち (August 2012, ISBN 978-4-04-100396-1-C0193)<br />
#''Rental Magica: The Future Magician'' レンタルマギカ 未来の魔法使い (March 2013, ISBN 978-4041007587)<br />
<br />
'''Others'''<br />
*''Rental Magica: Magical Method Encyclopedia'' レンタルマギカ 魔導書大全 (December 2007, ISBN 978-4-04-424917-5)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Sneaker Bunko]]<br />
[[Category:Light novel (English)]]<br />
[[Category:Makoto Sanda]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Shadowmaster850&diff=366780User talk:Shadowmaster8502014-07-06T17:15:50Z<p>Shadowmaster850: Blanked the page</p>
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<div></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User:Talinnilat&diff=366778User:Talinnilat2014-07-06T17:13:53Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>I'm working on translating the first volume of Ore no Nounai Sentakushi ga, Gakuen Love Come o Zenryoku de Jama Shiteiru.<br />
<br />
I've taken some breaks to improve my japanese grammar and will be taking more off and on as I work through some exercises. In the meantime I might put up some teasers of other projects that I hope someone will pick up.<br />
<br />
Updates:<br />
<br><br />
June 12th, 2014 - Created Rune Troopers Teaser Page<br />
<br />
Do you mind If I help out as an edit for the project - shadowmaster850</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Kyoukai_Senjou_no_Horizon&diff=366777Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon2014-07-06T17:08:11Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
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<div>{{Status|Active}}<br />
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[[Image:Horizon cover1.jpg|thumb|300px|Cover art]]<br />
'''''Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon''''' (境界線上のホライゾン/Horizon on the Middle of Nowhere) is a light novel series written by Kawakami Minoru and ilustrated by Satoyasu (TENKY). It takes place in the distant future of [[Owari no Chronicle]], another of Kawakami's light novel series. It conforms the GENESIS series of the universe.<br />
<br />
==Alternative Languages==<br />
The ''Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon'' series is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon ~ Russian|Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon ~ Russian]]<br />
(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
<br />
In the distant future, Earth has been devastated and its inhabitants seek a new home in the heavens. However, constant warfare forces humans to return to Earth, which has turned into an uninhabitable planet except for a certain area called the Divine States.<br />
<br />
The Divine States are too small to accommodate all the humans, so they duplicated the area and created the Harmonic Divine States. In order to retrace their steps and rediscover their journey to the heavens, the returned humans began to reproduce history from the year 10,000 BC, using a mysterious history book called Testament.<br />
<br />
History reproduction proceeds smoothly until A.D. 1413, when a war broke out in the Divine States. This causes the Harmonic Divine States to crash onto the original world. The humans living in the Harmonic Divine States lose their land and invade the original world. The people of the Divine States surrender and they are divided by the invaders from the Harmonic Divine States. They try to resume the reproduction of history from A.D.1457, but the update of history terminates in A.D.1648. A rumor of apocalypse begins to spread around the world.<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
=== [[Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they are working on''' <br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon:guidelines|Project-Specific Guidelines: Format, Names, and Terminology]]<br />
<br />
===Recruitment===<br />
<br />
Editors are welcome.<br />
<br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4618 forum].'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
<br />
*24 February 2014 - Volume 2-A completed<br />
*17 April 2014 - Volume 1-B completed<br />
*10 September 2013 - Volume 1-A completed<br />
*21 November 2011 - Upgraded to full project<br />
*September 12, 2011 - Teaser page created<br />
<br />
==Terminologies==<br />
*All terminologies, character information, and other series details are hosted on [http://genesis-horizon.wikia.com/wiki/Kyoukai_Senjou_no_Horizon_Wiki this wiki]. Alternative glossary page [http://kyoukaisen.tumblr.com/glossary here].<br />
*Alternatively, for a Baka-Tsuki translation affiliated list of terminology and their translations, check the [[Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon:guidelines|Project-Specific Guidelines]].<br />
*You may also consult the novels' glossaries.<br />
<br />
==The ''GENESIS Series - Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon'' by Kawakami Minoru==<br />
<br />
This novel is also translated by [http://kyousenthetranslation.wordpress.com/ Nanodesu]. <br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 1-A ([[Horizon:Volume_1|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/download/pg2vk65mmhlx9xe/Horizon_1-A_v3.epub ePUB])===<br />
[[File:1A.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 1A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1A_Preface|Preface]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1A_Character_Introduction|Character Introduction]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1A_Glossary|Glossary]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1A_History|History]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_School Rules|School Rules]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Prologue|Prologue - Those Lined Up Before the Horizon]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 1 Chapter 01|Chapter 01 - Participants in a Chance Meeting by the Storefront]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_02|Chapter 02 - The Wrecking Crew in the Classroom]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_03|Chapter 03 - Innocents at the Table]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_04|Chapter 04 - The Foreigner King]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_05|Chapter 05 - Those Reunited Under the Fair Sky]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_06|Chapter 06 - Fated Ones Beyond the Door]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter 07|Chapter 07 - Philosophers Atop the Stairs]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_08|Chapter 08 - Doubters in the Depths of a Ravine]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_09|Chapter 09 - The One Waiting Beyond the Door]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_10|Chapter 10 - Commandos In Town]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_11|Chapter 11 - Adults in the Pub]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_12|Chapter 12 - Innocents in Remorse Way]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_13|Chapter 13 - The Authorities at the Rendezvous Point]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_14|Chapter 14 - Covert Operatives Under the Night Sky]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_15|Chapter 15 - Gathered Friends in the Confined Room]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_16|Chapter 16 - Those Who Prepare in the Courtyard]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_17|Chapter 17 - Usurper in the Street]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_18|Chapter 18 - The School Teacher]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_19|Chapter 19 - He who Dashes through the Air]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_20|Chapter 20 - Graduates Under the Moon]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1A_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 1-B ([[Horizon:Volume_1B|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/download/nv3azcpryxz717z/Horizon_1-B.epub ePUB])===<br />
[[File:1B.jpg|thumb]]<br />
Partial translations by [http://pastebin.com/u/midorikasa Midorikasa]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 1B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Preface|Preface]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Table of Contents|Table of Contents]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Character|Character Introduction]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Glossary|Glossary]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_SchoolRules|School Rules]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_21|Chapter 21 - Worrier in the Twilight]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter22|Chapter 22 - Unconcerned Colleagues]]<br />
**[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_22.5|Study - Religion on Musashi]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/GbjscVLf Midorikasa])'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_23|Chapter 23 - Skeptics in the Meeting Session]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/tAbZs3r7 Midorikasa] )'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_24|Chapter 24 - The Determined on the Plains]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/4dFYtj35 Midorikasa] )'''<br />
**[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_24.5|Study - The Musashi Ariadust Academy]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/pBEGA8P3 Midorikasa])'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_25|Chapter 25 - Advocate at the Confession Grounds]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/rdDX7AWK Midorikasa] )'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_26|Chapter 26 - Refuter at the Execution Grounds]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/HRqXZpmH Midorikasa] )'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_27|Chapter 27 - The Powerful Below Ground]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/pzNn91SR Midorikasa] )'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_28|Chapter 28 - The Usurper in Town]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/M6v3FedQ Midorikasa] )'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_29|Chapter 29 - Musashi's Knights]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/2wQi2EWY Midorikasa])'''<br />
**[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_29.5|Study - Musashi's Knights]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/Np9Czzpr Midorikasa])'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_30|Chapter 30 - Me at the Last Moment]] '''(by [http://pastebin.com/FfTDPDpz Midorikasa])'''<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_31|Chapter 31 - As I Stand at the Last Moment]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_32|Chapter 32 - Absolute Supporter]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_33|Chapter 33 - The Summit's Flower]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_34|Chapter 34 - Those Running Toward the Borderline]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_35|Chapter 35 - The Trumpeter at the Start Line]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_36|Chapter 36 - Communicator between Two People]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_37|Chapter 37 - Those Travelling Through the Blue Sky]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_38|Chapter 38 - Musashi's Mr. Impossible]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_39|Chapter 39 - He who Gouges Holes in the Mainstream]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_40|Chapter 40 - She who Seeks the Realm of Speed]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1_Chapter_41|Chapter 41 - Those Facing Each Other from Parallel Lines]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_42|Chapter 42 - Those Facing Each Other on the Borderline]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_43|Chapter 43 - Continuous Adherent]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Chapter_44|Last Chapter - Myself From Now On]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_1B_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 2-A ([[Horizon:Volume_2A|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/download/a1jjp3xy8xzbq83/Horizon_2-A.epub ePUB])===<br />
[[File:2A.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Preface|Preface]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Table of Content|Table of Contents]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Character Introduction|Character Introduction]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Glossary|Glossary]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 School Rules|School Rules]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Prologue|Prologue: Lecturers Surrounded by Tranquility]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 01|Chapter 01: Members of the Vermilion Field]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 02|Chapter 02: Uninvited Guest in the Classroom]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 03|Chapter 03: Travelers in the Sky]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 04|Chapter 04: Those who Intermingle between Heaven and Earth]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 05|Chapter 05: Restraint from Every Direction]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 06|Chapter 06: Greeter on the Deck]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 07|Chapter 07: Creators on the Battlefield]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 08|Chapter 08: Herald on the Stage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 09|Chapter 09: Onlooker at the Crash Site]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 10|Chapter 10: Hopeful People with Nothing to Do]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 11|Chapter 11: Groups of National Leaders]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 12|Chapter 12: Those who Wait in a Place of Yearning]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 13|Chapter 13: Conversations between Worriers]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 14|Chapter 14: Distant Affirmers]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 15|Chapter 15: Immigrants to England]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 16|Chapter 16: Interceptor in a Place of Peace]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 17|Chapter 17: Recluses around the Corner]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 18|Chapter 18: One who Remembers in a Place of Forgetting]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 19|Chapter 19: Those Descending to the Surface]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 20|Chapter 20: Those Meeting in a Separate Place]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 21|Chapter 21: The Two in the Meeting Place]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 22|Chapter 22: Replier on the Chopping Block]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 23|Chapter 23: Scarred Ones in a Closed Room]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 24|Chapter 24: Guide to a New World]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 25|Chapter 25: Ruler of the Theatre]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 26|Chapter 26: Flower Presenter on the Street]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 27|Chapter 27: One who Stands Alone in the Stage Wing]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 28|Chapter 28: Defenders of the Bulwark]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 29|Chapter 29: Pilot in a Preparatory Place]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 30|Chapter 30: Humanitarian of the Hunting Ground]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2 Chapter 31|Chapter 31: Protector on the Round Stage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2A Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 2-B===<br />
[[File:2B.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Preface|Preface]]<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Character Introduction|Character Introduction]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Glossary|Glossary]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B School Rules|School Rules]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 32|Chapter 32: Man and Woman in the Plaza]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 33|Chapter 33: One who Lies on the Road]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 34|Chapter 34: Swimmer on the Road]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 35|Chapter 35: Detective Above the Stairs]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 36|Chapter 36: Rude One in a Hiding Place]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 37|Chapter 37: Protector of the Plaza]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 38|Chapter 38: Users of the Plaza]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 39|Chapter 39: The One Left Behind in the Cage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 40|Chapter 40: Standing Alone on the Parting Paths]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 41|Chapter 41: Hermit on the Stage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 42|Chapter 42: Those who Move About in the Wings of the Stage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 43|Chapter 43: Storyteller in the Hall]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 44|Chapter 44: Performers on the Stage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 45|Chapter 45: Performers from the Wings of the Stage]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 2B Chapter 46|Chapter 46: Performer in an Unrivalled Field]]<br />
*Chapter 47<br />
*Chapter 48<br />
*Chapter 49<br />
*Chapter 50<br />
*Chapter 51<br />
*Chapter 52<br />
*Chapter 53<br />
*Chapter 54<br />
*Chapter 55<br />
*Chapter 56<br />
*Chapter 57<br />
*Chapter 58<br />
*Chapter 59<br />
*Chapter 60<br />
*Chapter 61<br />
*Chapter 62<br />
*Chapter 63<br />
*Chapter 64<br />
*Chapter 65<br />
*Chapter 66<br />
*Chapter 67<br />
*Chapter 68<br />
*Chapter 69<br />
*Last Chapter<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 3-A===<br />
[[File:3A.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume_3__Prologue|Prologue - The Outsiders on the Bridge]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 01|Chapter 01 - The Companions of the Closed Room]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 02|Chapter 02 - The Pioneers of the Location]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 03|Chapter 03 - Hard Worker of the Unfamiliar Site]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 04|Chapter 04 - Assemblers under the Eaves]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 05|Chapter 05 - The Supervisor of the Hidden Room]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 06|Chapter 06 - The Negotiators of the Tea-House]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 07|Chapter 07 - The Gusting Individuals of the Neutral Zone]] <br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 08|Chapter 08 - One who Jumps into the Enclosure]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 09|Chapter 09 - Instigators in the Dining Hall]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 10|Chapter 10 - Cheerful People under the Night Sky]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 11|Chapter 11 - Failure to Understand at the Storefront]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 12|Chapter 12 - Owner of a Large Place]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3 Chapter 13|Chapter 13 - Great King of the Location]]<br />
*Chapter 14<br />
*Chapter 15<br />
*Chapter 16<br />
*Chapter 17<br />
*Chapter 18<br />
*Chapter 19<br />
*Chapter 20<br />
*Chapter 21<br />
*Chapter 22<br />
*Chapter 23<br />
*Chapter 24<br />
*Chapter 25<br />
*Chapter 26<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 3-B===<br />
[[File:3B.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*Chapter 27<br />
*Chapter 28<br />
*Chapter 29<br />
*Chapter 30<br />
*Chapter 31<br />
*Chapter 32<br />
*Chapter 33<br />
*Chapter 34<br />
*Chapter 35<br />
*Chapter 36<br />
*Chapter 37<br />
*Chapter 38<br />
*Chapter 39<br />
*Chapter 40<br />
*Chapter 41<br />
*Chapter 42<br />
*Chapter 43<br />
*Chapter 44<br />
*Chapter 45<br />
*Chapter 46<br />
*Chapter 47<br />
*Chapter 48<br />
*Chapter 49<br />
*Chapter 50<br />
*Chapter 51<br />
*Chapter 52<br />
*Chapter 53<br />
*Chapter 54<br />
*Chapter 55<br />
*Chapter 56<br />
*Chapter 57<br />
*Chapter 58<br />
*Chapter 59<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 3-C===<br />
[[File:3C.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 3C Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*Chapter 60<br />
*Chapter 61<br />
*Chapter 62<br />
*Chapter 63<br />
*Chapter 64<br />
*Chapter 65<br />
*Chapter 66<br />
*Chapter 67<br />
*Chapter 68<br />
*Chapter 69<br />
*Chapter 70<br />
*Chapter 71<br />
*Chapter 72<br />
*Chapter 73<br />
*Chapter 74<br />
*Chapter 75<br />
*Chapter 76<br />
*Chapter 77<br />
*Chapter 78<br />
*Chapter 79<br />
*Chapter 80<br />
*Chapter 81<br />
*Chapter 82<br />
*Chapter 83<br />
*Chapter 84<br />
*Chapter 85<br />
*Chapter 86<br />
*Chapter 87<br />
*Chapter 88<br />
*Chapter 89<br />
*Chapter 90<br />
*Chapter 91<br />
*Chapter 92<br />
*Chapter 93<br />
*Chapter 94<br />
*Last Chapter<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 4-A===<br />
[[File:4A.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 4A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 4A Prologue|Prologue - Those Who Touch the Meander with Their Feet]] <br />
*Chapter 01<br />
*Chapter 02<br />
*Chapter 03<br />
*Chapter 04<br />
*Chapter 05<br />
*Chapter 06<br />
*Chapter 07<br />
*Chapter 08<br />
*Chapter 09<br />
*Chapter 10<br />
*Chapter 11<br />
*Chapter 12<br />
*Chapter 13<br />
*Chapter 14<br />
*Chapter 15<br />
*Chapter 16<br />
*Chapter 17<br />
*Chapter 18<br />
*Chapter 19<br />
*Chapter 20<br />
*Chapter 21<br />
*Chapter 22<br />
*Chapter 23<br />
*Chapter 24<br />
*Chapter 25<br />
*Chapter 26<br />
*Chapter 27<br />
*Chapter 28<br />
*Chapter 29<br />
*Chapter 30<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 4-B===<br />
[[File:4B.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 4B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*Chapter 31<br />
*Chapter 32<br />
*Chapter 33<br />
*Chapter 34<br />
*Chapter 35<br />
*Chapter 36<br />
*Chapter 37<br />
*Chapter 38<br />
*Chapter 39<br />
*Chapter 40<br />
*Chapter 41<br />
*Chapter 42<br />
*Chapter 43<br />
*Chapter 44<br />
*Chapter 45<br />
*Chapter 46<br />
*Chapter 47<br />
*Chapter 48<br />
*Chapter 49<br />
*Chapter 50<br />
*Chapter 51<br />
*Chapter 52<br />
*Chapter 53<br />
*Chapter 54<br />
*Chapter 55<br />
*Chapter 56<br />
*Chapter 57<br />
*Chapter 58<br />
*Chapter 59<br />
*Chapter 60<br />
*Chapter 61<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 4-C===<br />
[[File:Vol 4C.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 4C Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 4C Chapter 62|The Distant Supporter]]<br />
*Chapter 63<br />
*Chapter 64<br />
*Chapter 65<br />
*Chapter 66<br />
*Chapter 67<br />
*Chapter 68<br />
*Chapter 69<br />
*Chapter 70<br />
*Chapter 71<br />
*Chapter 72<br />
*Chapter 73<br />
*Chapter 74<br />
*Chapter 75<br />
*Chapter 76<br />
*Chapter 77<br />
*Chapter 78<br />
*Chapter 79<br />
*Chapter 80<br />
*Chapter 81<br />
*Chapter 82<br />
*Chapter 83<br />
*Chapter 84<br />
*Chapter 85<br />
*Chapter 86<br />
*Chapter 87<br />
*Chapter 88<br />
*Chapter 89<br />
*Chapter 90<br />
*Chapter 91<br />
*Chapter 92<br />
*Chapter 93<br />
*Chapter 94<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 4C Chapter 95|Chapter 95]]<br />
*Last Chapter<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 5-A===<br />
[[File:Vol 5A.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 5A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*Prologue<br />
*Chapter 01<br />
*Chapter 02<br />
*Chapter 03<br />
*Chapter 04<br />
*Chapter 05<br />
*Chapter 06<br />
*Chapter 07<br />
*Chapter 08<br />
*Chapter 09<br />
*Chapter 10<br />
*Chapter 11<br />
*Chapter 12<br />
*Chapter 13<br />
*Chapter 14<br />
*Chapter 15<br />
*Chapter 16<br />
*Chapter 17<br />
*Chapter 18<br />
*Chapter 19<br />
*Chapter 20<br />
*Chapter 21<br />
*Chapter 22<br />
*Chapter 23<br />
*Chapter 24<br />
*Chapter 25<br />
*Chapter 26<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 5-B===<br />
[[File:Vol 5B.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 5B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*Preface<br />
*Table of Content<br />
*Character Introduction<br />
*Glossary<br />
*School Rules<br />
*Prologue<br />
*Chapter 27<br />
*Chapter 28<br />
*Chapter 29<br />
*Chapter 30<br />
*Chapter 31<br />
*Chapter 32<br />
*Chapter 33<br />
*Chapter 34<br />
*Chapter 35<br />
*Chapter 36<br />
*Chapter 37<br />
*Chapter 38<br />
*Chapter 39<br />
*Chapter 40<br />
*Chapter 41<br />
*Chapter 42<br />
*Chapter 43<br />
*Chapter 44<br />
*Chapter 45<br />
*Chapter 46<br />
*Chapter 47<br />
*Chapter 48<br />
*Chapter 49<br />
*Chapter 50<br />
*Chapter 51<br />
*Chapter 52<br />
*Chapter 53<br />
*Chapter 54<br />
*Chapter 55<br />
*Chapter 56<br />
*Chapter 57<br />
*Chapter 58<br />
*Chapter 59<br />
*Chapter 60<br />
*Chapter 61<br />
*Chapter 62<br />
*Last Chapter<br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 6-A===<br />
[[File:Vol 6A.jpeg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 6A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 6-B===<br />
[[File:Vol 6B.jpeg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 6B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 6-C===<br />
[[File:Horizon6-C01-Cover.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 6C Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 7-A===<br />
[[File:Horizon7-A000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 7A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 7-B===<br />
[[File:Horizon7-B000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 7B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 7-C===<br />
[[File:Horizon7-C000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Volume 7C Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
==The ''GENESIS Series - Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon - Kimitoasamade'' by Kawakami Minoru==<br />
<br />
A side story coupled with the limited edition volumes of the first and second seasons of the anime.<br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 1-A===<br />
[[File:1A000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 1A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 1-B===<br />
[[File:1B000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 1B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 2-A===<br />
[[File:2A000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 2A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 2-B===<br />
[[File:2B000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 2B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 3-A===<br />
[[File:3A000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 3A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 3-B===<br />
[[File:3B000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 3B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 4-A===<br />
[[File:4A000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 4A Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Kimitoasamade 4-B===<br />
[[File:4B000a.jpg|thumb]]<br />
*[[Horizon:Kimitoasamade 4B Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
*Supervisor: N/A<br />
*Project Manager: [[User:YoakeNoHikari|YoakeNoHikari]]<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
:* [[User:Js06|Js06]]<br />
'''INACTIVE'''<br />
:* [[User:YoakeNoHikari|YoakeNoHikari]]<br />
:* [[User:Zaregoto|Zaregoto]]<br />
:* [[User:Imoutolover|Imoutolover]]<br />
:* [[User:Suiri Megami Alice|Suiri Megami Alice]]<br />
:*[[User:Cosmic Eagle|Cosmic Eagle]]<br />
<br />
'''A.W.O.L.'''<br />
<br />
'''M.I.A'''<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
:*[[User:Link2link8|Link2link8]]<br />
:*[[user:Strike Forcer|Strike Forcer]]<br />
<br />
'''INACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
:*[[User:Skarlath|Skarlath]] (Focusing on last year of High School, I'll be back at the end of the year)<br />
:*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]] (Will edit when I have time)<br />
<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 1A - 境界線上のホライゾンI<上> (September 10, 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-867218-4)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 1B - 境界線上のホライゾンI<下> (October 10, 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-867270-2)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 2A - 境界線上のホライゾンII<上> (June 10, 2009, ISBN 978-4-04-867848-3)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 2B - 境界線上のホライゾンII<下> (July 10, 2009, ISBN 978-4-04-867901-5)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 3A - 境界線上のホライゾンIII<上> (June 10, 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-868600-6)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 3B - 境界線上のホライゾンIII<中> (July 10, 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-868647-1)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 3C - 境界線上のホライゾンIII<下> (September 10, 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-868735-5)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 4A - 境界線上のホライゾンIV<上> (September 10, 2011, ISBN 978-4-04-870805-0)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 4B - 境界線上のホライゾンIV<中> (October 10, 2011, ISBN 978-4-04-870806-7)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 4С - 境界線上のホライゾンIV<下> (December 10, 2011, ISBN 978-4-04-870807-4)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 5A - 境界線上のホライゾンV<上> (August 10, 2012, ISBN 978-4-04-886854-9)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 5B - 境界線上のホライゾンV<下> (October 10, 2012, ISBN 978-4-04-886855-6)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 6A - 境界線上のホライゾンVI<上> (May 10, 2013, ISBN 978-4-04-891623-3)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 6B - 境界線上のホライゾンVI<中> (July 10, 2013, ISBN 978-4-04-891820-6)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 6C - 境界線上のホライゾンVI<下> (September 10, 2013, ISBN 978-4-04-891624-0)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 7A - 境界線上のホライゾンVII<上> (February 10, 2014, ISBN 978-4-04-866311-3)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 7B - 境界線上のホライゾンVII<中> (April 10, 2014, ISBN 978-4-04-866475-2)<br />
*Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon 7C - 境界線上のホライゾンVII<下> (June 10, 2014, ISBN 978-4-04-866564-3)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Dengeki Bunko]]<br />
[[Category:Light novel (English)]]<br />
[[Category:Minoru Kawakami]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_1&diff=366773ShinSekai Yori:Part 4 Chapter 12014-07-06T16:58:58Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 1 ==<br />
<br />
I am engulfed in noise. The slow grating of chairs being pulled back. The rhythmic beat of footsteps on wooden floors. The vibrations of students running and hopping about. The 'shuuu shuuu' of steam rising from the kettle atop the stove in the middle of the room.<br />
<br />
Voices speaking with curious intonations. The din of laughter. Conversations that sounded muffled as though I were listening from underwater. A low muttering the source of which I could not determine.<br />
<br />
The words of each individual should have contained the meaning they wished to convey to the recipient. But, when the voices of so many people are combined, they all get mixed up. It comes to be no more than meaningless noise, filling the air like the buzzing of bees.<br />
<br />
If the thoughts of everyone present here were by some chance given voices I could hear, the result might be much the same. While the thoughts of each individual may have distinct meanings, this directionality is lost when all of them are combined, turning it into nothing more than annoying chaotic noise. All of it, just like the leakage of Jyuryoku.<br />
<br />
I was bewildered by these words that came to mind without any apparent logical connection. Leakage...... What exactly was that about.<br />
<br />
""'''Saki. Why are you spacing out?'''""<br />
<br />
Thick letters were floating above the notebook. The square within the "What"(何) changed into "Eye"(目) as it appears in "Manga"(漫画), and winked at me as the (の) character grinned.<ref>'''Weird Kanji''': I hope this makes sense. The point of what's happening here is that the shapes making up the characters used in the Japanese version of the sentence are rearranging themselves on Saki's paper to form pictures.</ref> I looked back and saw Maria watching me with a slightly worried look in her eyes.<br />
<br />
"I was just thinking about something."<br />
<br />
"I could guess that much. Was it about Ryo?"<br />
<br />
"Ryo?"<br />
<br />
I raised my eyebrows. I would not have expected it but Maria seemed to have gotten the wrong idea.<br />
<br />
"You don't have to hide it. Your worried about whether he'll choose you or not right? It's okay because Ryo is most certainly crazy about Saki"<br />
<br />
Inaba Ryo. Childhood friend, energetic and vigorous boy. Always central among us, he possessed a certain Leadership that pulled others along. But...... unexpectedly, I was hit by a feeling that something was out of place. I wonder what it is about him.<br />
<br />
"Isn't Ryo in group two. Why would he be choosing me?"<br />
<br />
"What are you talking about now?"<br />
<br />
Maria burst out with laughter.<br />
<br />
"Wasn't that just at the very beginning? Hasn't he been a part of everything we've done together since entering group one?"<br />
<br />
That's right. Ryo had become a part of our group along the way. The reason being that while group two had six members, our group one had Only Had Four Members From The Beginning. But, why was the number of people in our group small to begin with?......<br />
<br />
"Saki. What's up? Your acting a little strange"<br />
<br />
Maria placed her hand on my forehead as if to check whether I had a fever. While doing this she took advantage of my lack of attention silently leaning over to kiss me without warning.<br />
<br />
"That's enough already"<br />
<br />
I averted my eyes in confusion. No one seemed to have been looking in our direction but, I still felt strangely embarrassed.<br />
<br />
"Look, you're cheering up already"<br />
<br />
Maria said absentmindedly.<br />
<br />
"It's not like I particularly wanted you to do that kind of thing."<br />
<br />
"But there is someone in particular you do want to do that with now isn't there?"<br />
<br />
"I wasn't thinking anything of the sort!"<br />
<br />
"You two always get along so well"<br />
<br />
The boy who had shown up behind Maria, was Ryo himself. I felt my face unintentionally becoming red. As I wondered if Maria would misunderstand or not, more and more blood went to my head.<br />
<br />
"We love each other very much.<ref>'''Love each other''': The particular wording of the Japanese here sometimes (but not by any means always) implies a sexual relationship. Although, From what we've already seen of Maria, I think we can be fairly confident she meant it that way.</ref> You jealous?"<br />
<br />
Maria said as she drew herself closer to my chest while I was sitting.<br />
<br />
"Speaking honestly, a little bit."<br />
<br />
"Of whom?"<br />
<br />
"Both of you I suppose"<br />
<br />
"You lie"<br />
<br />
Simply put Ryo was tall, cheerful and loved by everyone, an existence one could not help but acknowledge.<br />
<br />
On the other hand however he was not the type to consider things deeply. I don't by any means mean that he was stupid but the way he only responded superficially regardless of the topic at hand left something to be desired. In regard to Jyuryoku, it was not as if he were particularly outstanding.....<br />
<br />
Again I was getting that feeling that something was out of place. Who exactly was it that I was comparing Ryo to?<br />
<br />
"Saki. Afternoon lessons begin before can we talk for a bit?"<br />
<br />
Ryo was calling me out.<br />
<br />
"hmmmm. I'm sure you'll be quite happy once the interlopers are out of the way."<br />
<br />
While floating through the air, Maria turned about as though doing a pirouette in the air, her red hair casually fluttering as she did so.<br />
<br />
"Mamoru has always had eyes only for you."<br />
<br />
Ryo said to Maria's retreating figure.<br />
<br />
"But he seems to have been feeling uneasy ever since he learned how overwhelmingly you took first place in that popularity contest."<br />
<br />
"Giggling' I suppose being too popular can be problematic too."<br />
<br />
While Maria floated about like some whimsical dragonfly, Ryo turned back towards me.<br />
<br />
"It's noisy in here, shall we head outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't mind"<br />
<br />
I had no reason to decline. Ryo stood up first and I followed behind him as we exited the classroom. But, when it looked as though he would turn left at the end of the corridor, I felt shocked.<br />
<br />
"Wait. I don't want to go that way."<br />
<br />
"Why?"<br />
<br />
Ryo turned back, a curious look on his face.<br />
<br />
"That is...... What is it that you want to do over there?"<br />
<br />
I myself did not fully understand why I didn't want to go that direction.<br />
<br />
"No one ever comes this way, so I figured it would be a quiet place to talk. See it's because the entrance to the courtyard is just ahead of us."<br />
<br />
That was it. The Courtyard...... I felt very that it would be very bad to approach the courtyard. Why did I loathe the courtyard to such an extent. I did not even understand it myself.<br />
<br />
"Before that, why not go outside? The weather is nice so it should feel good."<br />
<br />
"Hmm? Okay."<br />
<br />
We turned right at the end of the corridor, leaving the campus. The weather was certainly nice but, the Winter sunlight was weak, and the air quite chilly. Ryo too shivered and rubbed his arms. He must certainly think me to be the kind of woman prone to whim or unaffected by cold now.<br />
<br />
"About the Duty Teams, I figured I would choose you Saki."<br />
<br />
Ryo got straight to the point.<br />
<br />
"Thanks"<br />
<br />
Not knowing what kind of reaction would be best, I took the safe route with an expression of gratitude.<br />
<br />
"Is that all?"<br />
<br />
Ryo seemed like he was somewhat disappointed.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean 'Is that all'?"<br />
<br />
"How do you feel about it Saki? I just wanted to hear if you were planning to choose me as well is all."<br />
<br />
Ryo persistently pressed the frontal attack.<br />
<br />
"I……"<br />
<br />
This winter, all of the students of every grade were divided into two member Duty Groups. Usually pairs consisted of a boy and a girl, but if the total number of students was odd or one gender more numerous than the other in a class, the occasional 3-person group or same-sex pairing was also a possible occurrence. <br />
<br />
Officially, the only role of the Duty Groups was to preform the daily preparatory work for various activities but, in any case, groups continued to be established one by one as boy-girl pairs agreed to nominate one another. As far as the students were concerned, this was nothing but an official event for the purpose of love confessions.<br />
<br />
It seems to have been an unmistakable fact that, at that time, even our romantic relations were controlled by the school. I feel that this is the reason why the word "当番"(Touban) even came to be used. The normal definition of 'to bear work in turn' exists but, if one looks the characters up in a Kanji Dictionary, the meaning 'Pair/Couple' can also be found for the character '番'(ban). Considering the degree of simple obsession the Ethics Committee and Board of Education have where Kanji are concerned, this might not necessarily be all that far fetched.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry. I still haven't decided."<br />
<br />
With Ryo being so straightforward, I also answered frankly.<br />
<br />
"You haven't decided? Is there someone else you have in mind?"<br />
<br />
Ryo said in a worried sounding voice.<br />
<br />
"No. No one in particular, but....."<br />
<br />
Without knowing why, Satoru's face came to mind, but I quickly rejected the thought. A friend close to my heart though he might be, I could not think of him as a romantic partner.<br />
<br />
"Why do you want to choose me Ryo?"<br />
<br />
"Isn't that kind of thing obvious?"<br />
<br />
Ryo, said with ample confidence. <br />
<br />
"It's because I thought that up 'till now, I've always been looking at no one else but you Saki.<br />
<br />
"Always? At what point did you begin to feel that way?"<br />
<br />
"At what point you ask? That isn't the kind of thing that one decides on at some distinct point in time is it? But, If I must say something.....hmm."<br />
<br />
Ryo's facial expression quickly changed to uncertainty.<br />
<br />
"I'm not really certain but, I think it might be the time that we went to Summer Camp together."<br />
<br />
Within my mind, the sight of the whole sky filled with stars was revived.<br />
<br />
"What part of our time at summer camp do you still remember most clearly?"<br />
<br />
"That would be.... all of it. Rowing the canoe together. Ah, wasn't there a time when you became so fascinated with the scenery that you almost fell into the river? I reached out and caught hold of your hand just in time to stop it. It was truly chilly back then too."<br />
<br />
I frowned. Did something like that really happen? Moreover, we were involved in a life-threatening adventure during summer camp but, spent most of that time separated from one another. Speaking of shared memories, wouldn't it be normal for us both to remember that first evening, or else the time when we were reunited?<br />
<br />
"What about Night Canoeing?"<br />
<br />
"Night Canoeing?"<br />
<br />
Somehow, nothing seemed to come to him immediately.<br />
<br />
"That's right. That was fun."<br />
<br />
That was fun...... I did not want to hear the precious memories we created that night summed up with so simple a single word.<br />
<br />
As we were returning to the classroom, we happened to pass Satoru. I saw mixed feelings in Satoru's eyes as he looked in this direction. The thing his eyes were fixed on however was not me. Although this was not particularly strange. The reason being that, though it was only for a short time, Satoru once had a romantic relationship with Ryo.<br />
<br />
However, what showed in Satoru's eyes at the time I saw them, surprised me greatly.* They was no emotional entanglement of jealousy and love. But what seemed to be the very image of pure incomprehension. His eyes had the look of a person who truly cannot comprehend the being before him.<br />
<br />
<br />
That night I had a dream filled with many chaotic and incoherent things. Most of these things were forgotten the moment I awoke but, the final scene alone had been strongly burned into my mind.<br />
<br />
I was standing in a dimly lit deserted location. In my hands I held a bouquet of flowers. I came to realize that this place was the school's inner courtyard. For some reason, for as far as I could see, there was nothing but a countless number of gravestones. I strained my eyes with all of my might but, no matter how hard I tried, the gloomy darkness prevented me from clearly making out the letters carved into them.<br />
<br />
I placed the bouquet at the base of the gravestone closest to me. Although still brand new, the stone was already weathering, melting away into the ground. It's lettering too had already crumbled to such an extent that I could not possibly make it out.<br />
<br />
As I looked at it in that state, loneliness pressed into me as though a gaping hole had opened in my heart.<br />
<br />
"Have I already vanished from your memories?"<br />
<br />
Someone had come and was speaking to me. The voice was that of a boy. That voice sounded terribly familiar, but I could not tell who it belonged to.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry. No matter how hard I try, I can't seem to remember."<br />
<br />
"Hmm...... If that's how it is, I guess it can't be helped."<br />
<br />
I turn my head back towards the source of the voice but, could not see anyone there.<br />
<br />
"Where are you? Let me see your face."<br />
<br />
"But I have no face."<br />
<br />
As he quietly informed me of that, I remembered feeling sorrow without limit. Is that so...... he already had no face.<br />
<br />
"But, my face is one that you should know well."<br />
<br />
"I don't understand. I can't remember."<br />
<br />
"That, is not your fault." <br />
<br />
The voice continued speaking affectionately.<br />
<br />
"It's because after I was buried, someone scraped the letters off the gravestones."<br />
<br />
"Who? Why would they do such a thing?"<br />
<br />
"Try looking over there. Everyone is like that."<br />
<br />
There were a great many strangely shaped gravestones piled up like so many cards. Since their extremely irregular forms had already crumbled for the most part, the names on these too were impossible to make out.<br />
<br />
"After that, behind those as well"<br />
<br />
Further towards the interior were quietly inconspicuous gravestones. These lacked names from the beginning. These instead had round disk-like objects attached to them. As I approached for a better look, I realized they were mirrors. Even now, was that not my own face reflected back from it? A feeling of dread came over me like a cramp through my legs.<br />
<br />
"It's alright"<br />
<br />
The faceless boy said from behind me.<br />
<br />
"There's no reason to be frightened by such a thing. It's not your grave after all."<br />
<br />
"Then, whose is it?"<br />
<br />
"It's okay to take a closer look. You should understand if you do."<br />
<br />
As I approached, I peered into the mirror.<br />
<br />
Light was shining into my eyes.<br />
<br />
I reflexively raised my hands to shield my face from the radiance. After that, I slowly opened my eyes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The morning light was shining in through a gap in the window curtains.<br />
<br />
Stretching a little as I stood up, I opened the curtains and looked outside through the window. The light of the morning sun struck the window at a low angle coloring the glass a yellowish tint. Three 'Fat Sparrows' were vigorously jumping about from branch to branch in a tree a short ways off.<br />
<br />
Nothing was different from the normal morning scenery. I rubbed my eyes and realized that I had been crying as I dreampt.<br />
<br />
I went to the restroom and washed my face in such a way as to avoid being noticed by my parents.<br />
<br />
Looking at the wall clock, I saw that it was not even 7:00.<br />
<br />
For a long while I continued thinking about the dream I had just seen. Exactly who could the owner of that voice have been? Why had hearing it awakened such strong feelings of longing and sorrow?<br />
<br />
And then, suddenly, It came to me. The mirror that had been attached to that gravestone. I had certainly seen it some time before. It was not some symbol of the dream, but a mirror that really existed.<br />
<br />
My heart began beating more quickly. When I had seen it, I was still very young. Where could the place at which I had seen it be. At that time, it couldn't have been terribly far away. A place in the neighborhood..... No, a place within the house? It had been in a large box, packed together with many other odds and ends. I had thought of it as though it were a treasure, in a place where the sun didn't reach, that never grew tiresome.<br />
<br />
That's it. It was in the warehouse.<br />
<br />
A large warehouse had been built right next to my house. The upper half walls were white plaster while the lower portion had become Namako-Wall<ref>'''海鼠壁(namakokabe)''': The kanji used to describe the building here literally mean SeaSlug-Wall. The kanji that read SeaSlug-Plank can mean 'corrugated iron', but I have been unable to find any information on what these kanji reading SeaSlug-Wall actually refer to, because it obviously isn't the literal >_<. It's also interesting to note that the author gives the pronunciation above the word in katakana, so it's possible he's creating a new word here that the reader isn't expected to know yet. If anyone knows better, please PM me on the forums. -Dusanh</ref>. The interior was surprisingly spacious. In the past, I would often sneak inside to play there.<br />
<br />
I put a padded short coat on over my pajamas and, quietly descending the stairs, left the house through the entryway. The winter morning air was so chilly and dry that it made my freshly washed face tingle but, when filling my lungs to their fullest, I felt as though it could cleanse even ones feelings.<br />
<br />
Remembering the details about the warehouse, I was easily able to open the large door.<br />
<br />
If the door is closed, the perspective, by the light that comes shining in through an insect cage window, somehow seemed appropriate.<ref>'''the perspective...seemed appropriate''': I'm not entirely certain what the author is trying to say here. I think it may be an Idiom, but I can't figure it out if it is, so I just did the best I could with the literal. Here's the original Japanese for anyone interested. 虫籠窓から差し込んでくる明かりで、なんとか見通しは利いた。 The pronunciation of 虫籠窓 is given specifically as むしこ まど in furigana.</ref> Before me a stairwell opened into an 8-tatami sized room, within which, above the storage containers arranged on tightly packed shelves, the stairs continued to the second floor.<br />
<br />
Relying on my vague recollection, I continued up to the second floor. There too, the entire surface off the walls was covered in shelves on which storage chests had accumulated.<br />
<br />
Each of the storage chests likely weighed more than 100kg. I brought them down with Jyuryoku and looked inside each in turn.<br />
<br />
I found it within the fifth chest I checked.<br />
<br />
I picked up the roughly 30cm diameter round mirror. Compared to a normal mirror of silver applied to the back of glass, this one was unusually heavy and pulled heat from the fingers rapidly. It appeared as though this mirror were made of Bronze. It was without a doubt the mirror that had appeared in my dream.<br />
<br />
And it wasn't just that. Little by little, memories came back to me. I definitely remembered seeing this mirror in the past. Furthermore, it seemed likely to have been more than just once. I tried carefully examining the mirrored surface of the bronze mirror. If left unattended for a long enough time, the surface of a bronze mirror should have decayed sprouting a thin layer of green rust. However, this mirror had only become slightly cloudy.<br />
<br />
It had been at least five years since I had last seen this mirror. It was certain that the surface of the mirror had been polished in that interval.<br />
<br />
I returned the storage chest to the shelf as it had been before and left the warehouse, taking only the mirror along with me.<br />
<br />
Since I absolutely did not want to be seen by my parents, I circled around to the back of the house and left on the waterway riding the Hakuren No. IV. In spite off how early it was in the morning, I still passed by several other boats. The wind blowing across the surface of the water was freezing. While trying my best to be careful not to stand out, I choose waterways with little traffic and got off at a harbor with no one else around.<br />
<br />
Using the cloth I had brought together with the bronze mirror, I softly rubbed the mirror surface, attempting to remove the cloudiness from it. As I gave it a try, I realized that doing it by hand was going to be more difficult than I had expected. So this time, I tried adding Jyuryoku along the motion of my hands. As I imagined a state in which the dirt on the surface had fallen away, the bronze mirror regained its pinkish gold colored luster in a moment.<br />
<br />
From the time I first discovered it, I was operating under the assumption that it has the property of a 'MagicMirror'.<br />
<br />
By 'MagicMirror' I mean a type of mirror created by a technique that has existed since ancient times. If one looks at its surface with the naked eye, no discernible pattern can be seen but, only when struck by sunlight, does a picture or lettering become visible in the reflection it casts. By means of micron scale patterning on the mirrored surface, it uses a phenomenon by which parallel light is scattered but, __<ref>'''__light'''The Kanji used here does not seem to exist in any of the dictionaries I have access to, but the word is obviously just some other kind of artificial light-source.</ref>light, firelight, and things like phosphor-lamps are no good. Only when the sun is up will a picture rise to the surface in the circle of light says the myth.<br />
<br />
In ancient times, while polishing the bronze mirror 'till very thin, a patterned plate would be pressed against the opposite side, and as it was polished more and more, the pattern would be transcribed onto the mirrors surface. However, we created them as an exercise in mastering the fine control of Jyuryoku, as a part of the elementary level curriculum that every student had to take. I still remember the class in which I made one myself. It had the characters '早季'(Saki) encircled by an arabesque design that turned out quite beautifully, if I do say so myself. <br />
<br />
I caught the sunlight on the 'MagicMirror' and adjusted it to project the reflection onto the interior wall of a building at the harbor.<br />
<br />
What arose within the center of the circular light was a set of distorted figures too crude to be called letters.<br />
<br />
However, despite that, I could clearly tell that they had been intended to be read 'Yoshimi'.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As he entered the classroom, Ryo was chatting with a group of fiends all around him as usual. Most of them were children from group two.<br />
<br />
"Hey. Please remember me today."<br />
<br />
His smile was full of confidence as he looked at me.<br />
<br />
"There's something I'd like to talk with you about for a moment."<br />
<br />
"Alright. Where should we go?"<br />
<br />
"Anywhere is fine. This won't take long."<br />
<br />
I stood up and left the classroom ahead of him. Ryo, conscious of the eyes of the friends seing him off, followed in a very composed manner. I came to a stop midway down the corridor leading to the courtyard.<br />
<br />
"There are a few things I would like to ask you about."<br />
<br />
"Alright. Ask whatever you'd like."<br />
<br />
As usual, Ryo seemed perfectly composed.<br />
<br />
"It's about the time the two of us went night canoeing."<br />
<br />
"What, more about that?"<br />
<br />
Ryo forced a smile, but his eyes were swimming somewhere. *<br />
<br />
"You once taught me about an ironclad rule regarding night canoing. Do you remember what it was?"<br />
<br />
'''""For the time being, we must not look in the direction of the campfire.""'''<br />
<br />
'''The words of the faceless boy were revived in my mind.'''<br />
<br />
'''""Why not?""'''<br />
<br />
'''""There is an ironclad rule about night canoing; before you begin, be certain that your eyes are adjusted to the darkness. Otherwise, you'll end up unable to see anything at all for a while.""'''<br />
<br />
"I don't remember much about that long ago...... What was it. Was it 'be very careful so as to avoid running into any rocks'?"<br />
<br />
"Alright. In that case, something more recent. Why did you break up with Satoru?"<br />
<br />
Ryo went completely rigid.<br />
<br />
"That...... does that kind of thing even matter at this point?"<br />
<br />
"You got along very well. So well in fact that it made me somewhat jealous."<br />
<br />
"So that's how it was."<br />
<br />
Ryo's manner of speech sounded as though he were rather uncomfortable.<br />
<br />
"Well then, the last question. Though it's about that time at summer camp again."<br />
<br />
"Alright. Still, ask whatever."<br />
<br />
Ryo smiled casually.<br />
<br />
"It's about Rijin-shi. Do you remember how it was that (he) died?"<br />
<br />
"What's a riginshi? ......Died? What is this about?"<ref>'''Rijin-shi''': Saki doesn't actually use the word 'he' or anything else that would indicate Rijin is a person. This is important to note because in Ryo's reply, the name is written in Kana rather than Kanji and has the title-sufix integrated into the word, indicating that Ryo did not realize Saki was talking about a person. Neither of these spoken/written tricks can really be applied in english without being extremely awkward and/or nonsensical. I hope that clears things up for anyone who found this bit confusing.</ref><br />
<br />
"That's enough."<br />
<br />
I said, interrupting the bewildered Ryo.<br />
<br />
"As I thought, it seems that it really wasn't you."<br />
<br />
"What are you talking about?"<br />
<br />
"I will not be putting your name on my Duty Group form."<br />
<br />
For a few moments Ryo just stared at me with an expression of disbelief on his face.<br />
<br />
"What?..... Why?"<br />
<br />
"I'm truely sorry. But I figured it was polite to refuse before they are finalized."<br />
<br />
Leaving the now dumbfounded Ryo, I returned to the classroom. Satoru was standing near the entrance.<br />
<br />
"Are you planning to put his name down Saki?" <br />
<br />
He asked with a sour look on his face.<br />
<br />
"There's no way I would do that."<br />
<br />
"Eh? Then, what are you saying?"<br />
<br />
Once again, I took a long hard look at Satoru.<br />
<br />
"Say, Satoru, why is it that you came to like Ryo?" <br />
<br />
"The reason....."<br />
<br />
Satoru's expression became extremely bewildered.<br />
<br />
"Why is it. Looking back as I am now, I don't really know."<br />
<br />
"Is that so, I guess I was right. He's not a bad guy but, he seems out of place."*<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"Without a doubt, it wasn't him. The person that the two of us both fell in love with."<br />
<br />
A short amount of time was needed for the significance of those words to fully permeate Satoru's consciousness. Before long, Satoru's cheeks took on a faint red tinge. The silence remained unbroken but, before I knew it, a strong light had returned within his eyes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In regard to Duty Groups, the majority of combinations were decided at the first round of counting. There were some who, feeling they had nothing to loose by trying, filled in unattainable names, but for the most part, groups formed according to the agreements that people had discussed beforehand.<br />
<br />
When Satoru and I were announced as a pair, Ryo didn't even glance our way. I should perhaps have expected it when Ryo too, established a tight looking pair with a girl from group two immediately afterwards.<br />
<br />
The object of the class' attention was the matter of who Maria would choose but, this was quickly decided by her choosing Mamoru. To one who had seen Mamoru's maner of devotion untill this, it seemed his pairing with Maria may have been the natural reward.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean, It wasn't Ryo?..."<br />
<br />
After school, the four of us gathered at the side of a waterway with no sign of other people. Maria had suggested that we have a celebration for the four of us becoming two pairs, and we arranged the meeting as such but, once there, Satoru and I openly told Maria and Mamoru of what we thought to be true. To say that Maria was dubious... the look in her eyes seemed as though she were in serious doubt of my sanity.<br />
<br />
"I'm saying that isn't right. We did go to that summer camp as a group of five, but, Ryo was not a part of that group."<br />
<br />
"That can't be right. There are things I remember. After all, Wasn't it Ryo who was the first one to find a HayThatcher nest?"<br />
<br />
In truth it was me, however, this was not the kind of situation in which do dispute such a trivial detail.<br />
<br />
"That person, was definately not Ryo."<br />
<br />
"Then, who was it?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. No matter how hard I try, the name won't come to me."<br />
<br />
"What was he like? How did he look?"<br />
<br />
"I can't remember his face either."<br />
<br />
I remembered hearing the words 'I no longer have a face' within my dream.<br />
<br />
"Just a minute. Is there any way that someone would believe such a stupid thing? Saki, really, has something or other happened to you?"<br />
<br />
Maria shook her head while smiling bitterly. I was sullen at recieving this condescending attitude from so close a friend.<br />
<br />
"......But, there are parts of what Saki is saying that I can recall as well."<br />
<br />
Satoru had thrown me a lifeline.<br />
<br />
"I...... seem to have memories of going out with that guy but, when I look back on it now, however I think about it, there's no way that person was Ryo. I mean, that guy has never been my type."<br />
<br />
"Of course, everyone knows that Satoru's type is cute pretty-boys.... like Rei for example."<br />
<br />
Maria folded her arms in a self-important looking way.<br />
<br />
"But, isn't it also possible for you to have been tempted by an evil spirit?<ref>'''Tempted by an evil spirit''': This is obviously a cultural ideom rather than literal, but I can't think of a good english equivalent so I left it as is.</ref> Unintentionally moved by kindness as a result of an audacious move or something like that?<br />
<br />
"That's wrong too. The highly insistant courting has always come from my side of things."<br />
<br />
After saying this, Satoru's face went red.<br />
<br />
"In any case, I don't think we are mistaken in believing that our memories have been manipulated. As we went about digging up these memories, a few points turned up that were inconsistant."<br />
<br />
"Really, what kind?"<br />
<br />
"Ryo's...... This is getting confusing so, I think it would be better to use a different name. Is X okay for the time being? When I was very small, I remember going to X's house many times. But, the house I remember was very different from Ryo's. For instance, Ryo's house is in Miharashi isn't it? On top of a hill in a wide open space. But, X's house was......"<br />
<br />
"It was in the forest!"<br />
<br />
I shouted out without thinking.<br />
<br />
"Yeah. It was way up north, just the one house, isolated from everything else. The only thing I can clearly remember about it is that it was an amazingly large house."<br />
<br />
"Hearing you say that...... Somehow or other, I seem to be able to remember it too."<br />
<br />
Maria frowned. As with the saying 'To imitate a frown', I think that whatever they may be, the expressions of beautiful people are always watched.<ref>'''To imitate a frown''': This appears to be a quote of an ideom or cliche I've never heard of. I can't really be certain I got the rest of the sentence right without understanding it so I went with the guess that seemed least confusing. Here's the Japanese if anyone else wants to take a shot at it and PM me what they think. 顰みに倣うという言葉の通り、美人は、どんな表情をしても見られるものだと思う。<br />
</ref><br />
<br />
"I don't think I've ever been to Ryo or X's house before."<br />
<br />
Mamoru, who had remained silent until now cut in.<br />
<br />
"But, speaking of a forested place to the north, what village could it be part of?"<br />
<br />
I had thought about this but, strange though it may be, there does not seem to be any village for which this description properly fits.<br />
<br />
"Hey, try listing out the names of all seven villages."<br />
<br />
I requested of Satoru.<br />
<br />
"Eh? What, right now?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah, just try saying it."<br />
<br />
It seemed that before now, Satoru had been unwilling to listen when I said such things but, having just beome a Duty Group pair, he obediently began counting on his fingers. <br />
<br />
"So, there's Kunugibayashi village, WitherTree(Kuchiki) village, Shirasuna village, Kogane village, Mizuguruma village, Miharashi village, and finally Chinowa village, right?"<ref>'''WitherTree''': I've decided to start using the meaning-based translated names for the villages from here on as some of the TV translators did. It should sound more natural and certain references to naming reasons won't make sense otherwise. For now it's just WitherTree in this chapter, but I'll eventually go back and change all of them. Also note that Withertree/Kuchiki is not part of the original list from chapter 1.</ref><br />
<br />
This time, it was my turn to frown. These were the names of the villages we had known since childhood, and yet, why was I experiencing such a feeling of incompatibility?<br />
<br />
"A place in the forest would be, Kunugibayashi village? But, if it's to the north......<br />
<br />
Maria's expression had done a complete reversal from before and was now quite serious.<br />
<br />
"WitherTree village I wonder. I don't know it very well, however, I don't think it likely that such a large house would be present there."<br />
<br />
"I certainly find it hard to imagine it. I get the impression that we would almost have to go outside the Holy Barrier in order to get there."<br />
<br />
As he said this, Satoru's eyelids suddenly shifted subtlely.<br />
<br />
I was surprized at the sight of it. This feeling.....<br />
Here just now, and on countless occasions, whenever I seemed about to remember something, I had been hit with the same kind of sensation. If someone had been obserbing my face at those times, they certainly would have been able to notice the same kind of eyelid convulsions. This might be some kind of warning sign. It could be that a suggestion burried in the mind is obstructing the retrieval of memories that violate certain conditions.<br />
<br />
"Lets go and look."<br />
<br />
Everyone exchanged confused glances after I said it.<br />
<br />
"Go where?"<br />
<br />
"Isn't it obvious. To WitherTree village."<br />
<br />
"On the day that Duty Group pairings are decided? What a sad thing. Why must we go to such a dreary and deserted place even though everyone else is celebrating?"<br />
<br />
Maria grumbled.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
WitherTree village was quite certainly the very antithesis of the word bustling.<br />
<br />
In the area surrounding the Harbor, many houses sood in a row forming what might tentatively be called a main street. However, if one goes even a little ways inward from there, it becomes the very definition of gloomy. Streets lined with nothing but abandoned dilapidated houses, more than just declining, it would be better to say the place had already become deserted.<br />
<br />
"The people who lived here, where could they all have gone to?"<br />
<br />
Satoru tentatively ran his hand across the closed up storm shutters.<br />
<br />
"Could some kind of disaster or accident have happened and made them all move to another village?"<br />
<br />
Said Mamoru. This too was in agreement with that memory. But the occurance of this incident in so small a world, made me understand that other things were far too uncertain.<br />
<br />
"In any case, ......X's house should be at a place much further north than this. Lets go take a look."<br />
<br />
I urged everyone to get walking. I choose narrow streets so as not to draw peoples attention but, the fact that we did not happen to encounter a single person along the way would have been unimaginable in another village.<br />
<br />
After walking for just under an hour, the physical traces of the ""Disaster"" that had struck Kukichi village gradually became more evident.<br />
<br />
Here and there we came across large cracks in the ground, and many trees had been knocked flat. In places the ground had shifted, revealing more than a meter of strata. However I looked at it, this seemed like nonthing other than the aftermath of a major earthquake. Of course, if an earthquake of such magnitude had occured, the entirety of Kamisu 66 should have suffered severe damage.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, spanning a vast area was a bizzare formation that looked as though a carpet had been forcibly pushed from one side forming wrinkles. The height of the wrinkles made it seem like the Shuukyoku mountain range in minerature, reaching as much as 3 meters tall at some locations.<br />
<br />
"What exactly could have happened to reshape the earth's surface into such a form?"<br />
<br />
Satoru muttered as though speaking to himself.<br />
<br />
"Couldn't someone, a person possessing incredible Jyuryoku, twist and distort the surface?"<br />
<br />
Maria responded. <br />
<br />
"For what purpose?"<br />
<br />
"How would I know..."<br />
<br />
After walking a little further, our path was abruptly blocked.<br />
<br />
"The Holy Barrier......"<br />
<br />
It was as though the trees of Akamatsu Forest had fallen over one after another atop each other. Within the pile, trees stood upright at fixed intervals, with the Sacred Shrine Rope affixed along them. I could not think but that the fallen trees had been expressly arranged so.<br />
<br />
"Was WitherTree village really this small? For us to already be running into the Holy Barrier."<br />
<br />
At my question, Satoru began inspecting the Sacred Shrine Rope.<br />
<br />
"No, that's wrong. This rope looks as though it was just made not long ag......"<br />
<br />
Satoru stopped speaking suddenly and looked in my direction. <br />
What he was feeling was conveyed to my mind as though by telepathy. This sort of thing is called 'deja vu' isn't it? At some time previously, we'd had another conversation almost exactly the same as this one. I felt certain of it.<br />
<br />
Detouring around along this side of the Holy Barrier, we came to a place where the trees seemed to have been mowed down over smashed hills, and our field of vision suddenly opened up.<br />
<br />
"I had no idea...... such a place existed here."<br />
<br />
Maria was muttering as though dumbfounded, which was completely understandable. Streching out before our eyes was a lake filled with verdant water. It had a clean circular shape to it like that of a Caldera. Although we could not get close to the bank on the other side of the Holy Barrier, it was easily 200 meters in diameter. <br />
<br />
In addition, as I turned my eyes beyond it, it seemed that another lake, imcomperably larger than this one, extended onwards. Although I could not completely see the opposite shore, they may well have been connected by an inlet to the north. In contrast with the raw soil showing along the lake on this side, it seemed as though the forest was completely submerged beneath the other like the dam lakes of ancient times. This could have been the origin of WitherTree villages name.<br />
<br />
"It seems unlikely that there would be a house beyond this."<br />
<br />
Mamoru said in a manner openly showing that he wanted to leave quickly.<br />
<br />
"As I thought, It was just our imagination. This X person doesn't exist."<br />
<br />
"Then, How......?"<br />
<br />
Maria's voice, perhaps out of confusion, had no power to it.<br />
<br />
"I can feel it a little bit too, what Saki and Satoru were talking about. That the person I knew, might well not have been Ryo, but some other boy entirely."<br />
<br />
"You're just imagining it. Look, at around our age, people grow up into adults very quickly. Not just height and size, but the shape of one's face and even one's personality steadily change right?"<br />
<br />
Satoru and I exchanged glances.<br />
<br />
What Mamoru said was in general quite different from our own life experiences. For us at that moment, the passage of time was slowed to a snail-like pace, giving just about everything a feeling of eternal deadlock like a fly imprisoned within a piece of amber.<br />
<br />
"Hey. Wasn't there one more person......?"<br />
<br />
What Maria abruptly said at that time caught us off guard.<br />
<br />
"After all, I don't think it could possibly be right that our group only had four people to begin with. So, before Ryo joined us, X must have been there. But, even then, wouldn't we still be one short? I can't remember very well, but, wasn't there one more person?"<br />
<br />
The image of a girl who didn't stand out much flickered through my mind. After that, the gravestones piled up like countless cards I saw in that dream did the same.<br />
<br />
"There was. I can remember."<br />
<br />
Satoru said while rubbing his temples as though he had a headache.<br />
<br />
"At the very least, as with X, the memory doesn't seem to have been completely erased. However, I wonder why. Absolutely no-one would discuss the matter of the child who vanished on the way back from class?"<br />
<br />
"Hey, we should stop it with that kind of talk."<br />
<br />
Mamoru cried.<br />
<br />
"Absolutely no good. Looking into that kind of thing is. Just talking about such things......"<br />
<br />
Mamoru's words trailed off as he made an expression as though he had suddenly become very frightened.<br />
<br />
"What will happen if we do? Are you saying that we'll be disposed of too?"<br />
<br />
As I said this, the air in that place brought on a chill.<br />
<br />
"Saki. If I remember correctly, we had a talk like this one at summer camp too, didn't we?"<br />
<br />
Maria's face went completely white.<br />
<br />
"We did, I remember it. However, I too, cannot remember the concrete details of what we said. When I try to remember, some kind of hinderance gets in the way within my head."<br />
<br />
The one who answered was Satoru.<br />
<br />
"But, I seem to have said something like that to Saki. After that, everyone else began talking too. Around the bonfire. At that time, X was in agreement with my opinion."<br />
<br />
Satoru was holding his head with both hands as though enduring a terrible headache.<br />
<br />
"Stop it! I don't want to hear any more. We definately shouldn't be talking about this kind of thing! It's a violation of the Ethics Regulations!"<br />
<br />
Mamoru began screaming in a loud voice. This was the first time I had ever seen the normally calm and introspective Mamoru loose his self-restraint to such an extent.<br />
<br />
"I know. It's alright."<br />
<br />
Maria wrapped her arms around Mamoru's neck and began patting his back as though calming a child.<br />
<br />
"Lets stop this conversation for now. ......Alright, you two?"<br />
<br />
With Maria glaring at us so intensely, we could do nothing but nod in assent.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The 'MagicMirror' reflected a vivid image onto the top of the black wooden fence.<br />
<br />
Satoru and Maria watched silently for a short period of time. Mamoru seemed to have been in a bad mood and had returned home earlier.<br />
<br />
"What do you think?"<br />
<br />
I requested of Satoru and he finally opened his mouth with a serious expression.<br />
<br />
"Yeah. ......it appears quite unskillfully done but, the Touch<ref>'''Touch''': The English word 'Touch' here is used instead of its Japanese equivalent within the original Japanese text. I'm not certain if this is just for emphasis or some other reason, but figured it was worth noting.</ref> of these letters, I think it was created by a beginner's Jyuryoku."<br />
<br />
"That's right. It's fundamentally the same as the ones we made in class."<br />
<br />
Maria too, agreed.<br />
<br />
"Then with this, can we all agree that I wasn't lying about this matter?"<br />
<br />
"From the beginning, I never said that you were lying. Saki, I also think you may well be right in your conjecture about having had an older sister. However, to say that person was...... 'disposed of' as you say, at school, isn't it a little bit too much of a stretch?"<br />
<br />
"Supposing my sister passed away by some accident or illness, there would be no need to hide it, right?"<br />
<br />
Maria avoided meeting my eyes.<br />
<br />
"That might not be the case. It's also possible they did it so as to avoid subjecting Saki to a memory that was somehow too painful."<br />
<br />
"But look at these characters. As Satoru said, don't you think they are too unskillful? Wouldn't you agree that my sister was surely unable to use her Jyuryoku accurately?"<br />
<br />
"I cannot deny that possibility but, in spite of that, all of this is nothing more than speculation."<br />
<br />
Taking the 'MagicMirror' from me, Satoru obserbed the reflected image on the wooden wall while making subtle changes to its size and angle.<br />
<br />
"If you look closely at this, it seems that our assumption about her lack of skill might not quite be correct. Each individual line has been imprinted quite cleanly. It's only distorted because places exist where two lines overlap when they shouldn't......"<br />
<br />
To the me of this time, what Satoru was trying to say was beyond comprehension. Much later on, I came to understand that he was saying this may have been the result of the symptoms of a certain kind of vision dissorder, and was surprised by how keen his insight had been. It seems there was much tension regarding the suspicion that many children, including my sister, who had been judged deficient in Jyuryoku may actually have been suffering from this vision disorder but, with most of the documents having been lost by now, the truth of the matter cannot be determined from the conflicting information.<br />
<br />
In ancient times, it seems this vision disorder was refered to as shortsightedness or astigmatism. The symptoms coud be treated using 'Sunglasses' like glasses<ref>'''Sunglasses''': The English word 'sunglasses' is used in the original Japanese text here, while 'glasses' is written in Japanese Kanji characters.</ref> inlayed with lenses of specific thickness, allowing the disorder to be mitigated to such a level that it was no hinderance to everyday life.<br />
<br />
"In any case, I definately had an older sister."<br />
<br />
Taking back the 'MagicMirror' from Satoru, I lifted it up high in both hands.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand? This is the proof of it."<br />
<br />
"Hey, stop that! We would look very suspicious if that were seen by someone."<br />
<br />
Satoru cautioned in a low voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki. I understand how you feel very well."<br />
<br />
Putting her hand on my shoulder, Maria whispered into my ear.<br />
<br />
"But, I'm begging you, from now on, please don't make any more of a fuss."<br />
<br />
"Make a fuss? All that I want is simply to know the truth."<br />
<br />
I felt resentful hearing words so surprising coming from a close friend.<br />
<br />
"It's not just about my sister. There's also the girl who was in our group. And furthermore, more than anything..."<br />
<br />
X. The faceless boy. Whom I loved more than anyone. Whose face I was still unable to properly recall within my mind.<br />
<br />
"...The matter of our irreplacable friend."<br />
<br />
"I understand. Because I feel that pain too. Although I have many memories, some crucial part has been chopped out of them. The feeling of needing to do something, I feel along with you Saki. However, I worry more about the friends who are still living."<br />
<br />
"If you're referring to me, there's no need to worry."<br />
<br />
"I don't worry about you Saki. You're quite strong."<br />
<br />
Maria bluntly refuted.<br />
<br />
"Strong? Me?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. In regard to X, you've been wounded more deeply than anyone else. I can tell just by looking at you. But Saki, you're able to bear it. I don't think a normal person would be able to stand that degree of sorrow......"<br />
<br />
"Thats terrible. What exactly do you think I am?"<br />
<br />
I shook off Maria's hands from my shoulders.<br />
<br />
"Don't missunderstand. I'm certainly not saying that you are a cold person. On the contrary, you feel things more strongly than most Saki. However, you are a person who is able to live with the burden of that sorrow and pain."<br />
<br />
Seeing a large teardrop forming in Maria's eyes, my anger rapidly weakened.<br />
<br />
"Not all of us are as strong as you. Even me, though I may act proud, when push comes to shove, I immediately want to run away. ......However, there are also people who are far weaker than me or Satoru."<br />
<br />
"Could it be you mean Mamoru?"<br />
<br />
Satoru asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes. Mamoru is extremely gentile and delicate. If he found out he had been betrayed by people he believed in from the bottom of his heart, he would never recover from it. Not just people. The world he believes in as well......"<br />
<br />
Maria slowly embraced me.<br />
<br />
"I think it's likely that there are many things in this world that are best left unknown. Aren't there times when the truth is the most painful possible thing? Not all people are able to bear that. More than that, if terrible truths were thrust upon him, Mamoru would surely break."<br />
<br />
For a short period, the three of us were silent. I abruptly let out a sigh.<br />
<br />
"I understand."<br />
<br />
"Really?"<br />
<br />
"I promise. I'll be sure not to let Mamoru hear about this kind of thing any more."<br />
<br />
I strongly returned Maria's embrace.<br />
<br />
"However, until I know the truth of this matter, I absolutely will not give up. Because, If I didn't do that much...... It would just be too pitiful."<br />
<br />
The faceless boy. I absolutely will not allow it to end completely forgetting him like this. That would make it the same as if he had never existed. No matter what it might take, I would take back my memories of him once again.<br />
<br />
The three of us together held each other tightly and exchanged kisses. Providing mutual comfort, giving each other strength, and reaffirming the fact that we were not alone in this.<br />
<br />
After that, we returned to the harbor as a group. It was a spot on the outskirts of Mizuguruma Village in which my family lived. In a way that usually would'nt draw much attention, traveling along the black wooden fence next to the waterway, the two of us had selected the place to look at the 'MagicMirror'.<br />
<br />
As we were untying the mooring ropes of each of the boats, someone called out from behind us.<br />
<br />
"Can you guys spare a moment?"<br />
<br />
Looking back, I saw a middle aged man and woman standing there. In Kamisu 66, people who one had never once encountered before were rare but, these two did not seem familiar. The woman who had called out was short and plump, and gave a feeling of beeing quite harmless. The man who spoke next too was quite short, and had a kindhearted looking smile on his face.<br />
<br />
"You're Saki Watanabe right? Along with Maria Akizuki and Satoru Asahina?"<br />
<br />
Being thurougly confused, we could do nothing but smile and nod in agreement.<br />
<br />
"There's no need to be so nervous. We just wanted to stop and talk for a moment."<br />
<br />
We all wondered if we would be disposed of. All three of us exchanged glances with each other but, none could guess what best to do.<br />
<br />
"Um...... Are you from the Board of Education?"<br />
<br />
Satoru asked as though he had found his courage.<br />
<br />
"No. We're people who work for your grandmother."<br />
<br />
The short woman answered while smiling at Satoru.<br />
<br />
"Eh? Is that so?"<br />
<br />
The tension seemed to drain from Satoru. I wondered about something. Not once had I ever heard anything about the person that was Satoru's grandmother. The woman seemed to sense the lack of understanding from Maria and I and explained with a smile.<br />
<br />
"Asahina Satoru's grandmother is Asahina Tomiko-sama, who serves as the chairmain of the Ethics Committe.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
<br />
The translation of this chapter is essentially complete, but it could use a third party proofreading and there are still a few points marked about which I'm undertain.<br />
<br />
-[[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<references /><br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Back to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3|Part 3]]<br />
| Return to [[ShinSekai_Yori|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_2|Chapter 2]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Gate_-_Thus_the_JSDF_Fought_There&diff=313799Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There2013-12-26T23:08:49Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:GATESvol2.jpg|thumb|400px|right|''The cover art of novel volume 2'']]"Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There" (ゲート：自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Geito - Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri) is a Japanese fantasy novel series by Takumi Yanai. <br />
<br />
Between 2006 and 2009, Gate was serialized online in a novel website called Arcadia.<br />
<br />
Later in 2010 it was published by Alphapolis. Compared to the online serialization, the published volumes place a lesser weight on political commentary. Also, volume three has been substantially rewritten. The ending was also different. The concluding fifth volume was published in late 2011. Two gaiden (side story) volumes were also published in 2012 and 2013.<br />
<br />
An ongoing [http://www.mangaupdates.com/series.html?id=72210 manga adaptation] of the story began serialization on 30th July, 2011. There are 3 volumes so far.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
[[Image:GATE.jpg|thumb|400px|right|''The Gate'']]In August of 20XX, a portal to a parallel world, known as the "Gate", suddenly appeared in Ginza, Tokyo. Monsters and troops poured out of the portal, turning the shopping district into a bloody inferno.<br />
<br />
The Japan Ground-Self Defence Force immediately took action and pushed the fantasy creatures back to the "Gate". To facilitate negotiations and prepare for future fights, the JGSDF dispatched the Third Reconnaissance Team to the "Special Region" at the other side of the Gate.<br />
<br />
Youji Itami, a JSDF officer as well as a 33-year-old otaku, was appointed as the leader of the Team. Amid attacks from enemy troops the team visited a variety of places and learnt a lot about the local culture and geography. <br />
<br />
Thanks to their efforts in humanitarian relief, although with some difficulties they were gradually able to reach out to the locals. They even had a cute elf, a sorceress and a demigoddess in their circle of new friends. <br />
On the other hand, the major powers outside the Gate such as the United States,China and Russia were extremely interested in the abundant resources available in the Special Region. They began to exert diplomatic pressure over Japan.<br />
<br />
A suddenly appearing portal to an unknown world - to the major powers it may be no more than a mere asset for toppling the international order. But to our protagonists it is an invaluable opportunity to broaden knowledge, friendship, and ultimately their perspective towards the world.<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
Some people find Gate difficult to translate, so prospective translators are encouraged to try their hand translating a page to see how it feels. Also, they should be cautious about registering many chapters at once.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they are working on. They can also post in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] if they have any questions about registration.'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Names and Terminology Guidelines|Names and Terminology Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
===Feedback===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] or in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4663 Teaser Feedback thread] and give the project a vote.'''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*November 17, 2013: Renovated page. Added light novel section.<br />
*June 11, 2011: Status of the prologue updated to 20% done.<br />
*June 8, 2011: A snippet of GATE 1 uploaded.<br />
*June 5, 2011: Project Page Created. Character introductions, prologue and a snippet of GATE 2 uploaded.<br />
<br />
== The "Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There" Series ==<br />
===Novel===<br />
==== Teasers ====<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Rory the Reaper|(GATE 1) Rory the Reaper]]<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Lelei's magic assessment|(GATE 2) Lelei's magic assessment]]<br />
<br />
==== GATE 1: CONTACT ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 1 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Character introductions|Character introductions]]<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Volume1 Prologue|Prologue]] (~30%)<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]<br />
::*Chapter 3<br />
::*Chapter 4<br />
::*Chapter 5<br />
::*Chapter 6<br />
::*Chapter 7<br />
::*Chapter 8<br />
::*Chapter 9<br />
::*Chapter 10<br />
::*Chapter 11<br />
::*Chapter 12<br />
::*Chapter 13<br />
::*Chapter 14<br />
::*Chapter 15<br />
::*Chapter 16<br />
::*Chapter 17<br />
::*Chapter 18<br />
::*Chapter 19<br />
::*Chapter 20<br />
::*Chapter 21<br />
::*Chapter 22<br />
::*Chapter 23<br />
<br />
==== GATE 2: FLAME DRAGON ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 2 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 3: UPHEAVAL ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 3 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 4: ALL-OUT ATTACK ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 4 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 5: DARK GATE ====<br />
<br />
===Light Novel===<br />
A light novel is also being released by Alphapolis. The illustrator is [http://www4.pf-x.net/~kurojishi/ Kurojishi]. There are slight differences between the light novel and the previously published novel.<br />
<br />
====Volume 1 - Contact Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
[[Image: Gate LN Vol 1 - 000a.jpg|thumb|x200px|Volume 1 cover]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 6|Chapter 6]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 7|Chapter 7]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 8|Chapter 8]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 9|Chapter 9]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 10|Chapter 10]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 11|Chapter 11]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 12|Chapter 12]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
====Volume 2 - Contact Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 3 - Flame Dragon Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 4 - Flame Dragon Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 5 - Upheaval Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 6 - Upheaval Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 7 - All-Out Attack Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 8 - All-Out Attack Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
*Project Administrator: N/A<br />
*Project Supervisor: N/A<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
<br />
'''K.I.A.'''<br />
:*[[user:RndCodeGen|RndCodeGen]]<br />
:*[[user:DNK|DNK]]<br />
<br />
For such a long series we are extremely short of translators to work on it. We welcome anyone who has good Japanese comprehension capability to join our team. Please leave a message in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] if you are interested.<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
* Beroin<br />
* shadowmaster850<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
<br />
===Main Series===<br />
*'''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri'''<br />
**GATE 1: CONTACT / 接触編 (12 APR 2010, ISBN 978-4434142352)<br />
**GATE 2: FLAME DRAGON / 炎龍編 (5 AUG 2010, ISBN 978-4434147630)<br />
**GATE 3: UPHEAVAL / 動乱編 (24 DEC 2010, ISBN 978-4434152542)<br />
**GATE 4: ALL-OUT ATTACK / 総撃編 (24 JUN 2011, ISBN 978-4434157202)<br />
**GATE 5: DARK GATE / 冥門編 (22 DEC 2011, ISBN 978-4434162381)<br />
<br />
===Spin-off===<br />
*'''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦っちゃってます。/ Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakacchattemasu.'''<br />
** The Episode of Steaming Hot-springs / 湯煙温泉編 ([http://www.mai-net.net/bbs/sst/sst.php?act=dump&cate=original&all=1507&n=1#kiji Arcadia serialization])<br />
** The Episode of the Comike Winter Campaign / 混家冬の陣篇<br />
** The Episode of Thriving Business / 商売繁盛編 ([http://www.mai-net.net/bbs/sst/sst.php?act=dump&cate=original&all=1507&n=2#kiji Arcadia serialization])<br />
<br />
===Light Novel===<br />
*'''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri'''<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈1〉接触編〈上〉 (DEC 2012, ISBN 978-4434174742)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈1〉接触編〈下〉 (DEC 2012, ISBN 978-4434174759)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈2〉炎龍編〈上〉 (MAR 2013, ISBN 978-4434177026)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈2〉炎龍編〈下〉 (MAR 2013, ISBN 978-4434177033)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈3〉動乱編〈上〉 (JUN 2013, ISBN 978-4434179372)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈3〉動乱編〈下〉 (JUN 2013, ISBN 978-4434179389)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈4〉総撃編〈上〉 (SEP 2013, ISBN 978-4434182396)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈4〉総撃編〈下〉 (SEP 2013, ISBN 978-4434182402)<br />
[[Category:Teasers]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Gate_-_Thus_the_JSDF_Fought_There&diff=313798Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There2013-12-26T23:08:06Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:GATESvol2.jpg|thumb|400px|right|''The cover art of novel volume 2'']]"Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There" (ゲート：自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Geito - Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri) is a Japanese fantasy novel series by Takumi Yanai. <br />
<br />
Between 2006 and 2009, Gate was serialized online in a novel website called Arcadia.<br />
<br />
Later in 2010 it was published by Alphapolis. Compared to the online serialization, the published volumes place a lesser weight on political commentary. Also, volume three has been substantially rewritten. The ending was also different. The concluding fifth volume was published in late 2011. Two gaiden (side story) volumes were also published in 2012 and 2013.<br />
<br />
An ongoing [http://www.mangaupdates.com/series.html?id=72210 manga adaptation] of the story began serialization on 30th July, 2011. There are 3 volumes so far.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
[[Image:GATE.jpg|thumb|400px|right|''The Gate'']]In August of 20XX, a portal to a parallel world, known as the "Gate", suddenly appeared in Ginza, Tokyo. Monsters and troops poured out of the portal, turning the shopping district into a bloody inferno.<br />
<br />
The Japan Ground-Self Defence Force immediately took action and pushed the fantasy creatures back to the "Gate". To facilitate negotiations and prepare for future fights, the JGSDF dispatched the Third Reconnaissance Team to the "Special Region" at the other side of the Gate.<br />
<br />
Youji Itami, a JSDF officer as well as a 33-year-old otaku, was appointed as the leader of the Team. Amid attacks from enemy troops the team visited a variety of places and learnt a lot about the local culture and geography. <br />
<br />
Thanks to their efforts in humanitarian relief, although with some difficulties they were gradually able to reach out to the locals. They even had a cute elf, a sorceress and a demigoddess in their circle of new friends. <br />
On the other hand, the major powers outside the Gate such as the United States,China and Russia were extremely interested in the abundant resources available in the Special Region. They began to exert diplomatic pressure over Japan.<br />
<br />
A suddenly appearing portal to an unknown world - to the major powers it may be no more than a mere asset for toppling the international order. But to our protagonists it is an invaluable opportunity to broaden knowledge, friendship, and ultimately their perspective towards the world.<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
Some people find Gate difficult to translate, so prospective translators are encouraged to try their hand translating a page to see how it feels. Also, they should be cautious about registering many chapters at once.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they are working on. They can also post in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] if they have any questions about registration.'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Names and Terminology Guidelines|Names and Terminology Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
===Feedback===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] or in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4663 Teaser Feedback thread] and give the project a vote.'''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*November 17, 2013: Renovated page. Added light novel section.<br />
*June 11, 2011: Status of the prologue updated to 20% done.<br />
*June 8, 2011: A snippet of GATE 1 uploaded.<br />
*June 5, 2011: Project Page Created. Character introductions, prologue and a snippet of GATE 2 uploaded.<br />
<br />
== The "Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There" Series ==<br />
===Novel===<br />
==== Teasers ====<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Rory the Reaper|(GATE 1) Rory the Reaper]]<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Lelei's magic assessment|(GATE 2) Lelei's magic assessment]]<br />
<br />
==== GATE 1: CONTACT ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 1 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Character introductions|Character introductions]]<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Volume1 Prologue|Prologue]] (~30%)<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
::*[[Gate - Thus the JSDF Fought There:Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]<br />
::*Chapter 3<br />
::*Chapter 4<br />
::*Chapter 5<br />
::*Chapter 6<br />
::*Chapter 7<br />
::*Chapter 8<br />
::*Chapter 9<br />
::*Chapter 10<br />
::*Chapter 11<br />
::*Chapter 12<br />
::*Chapter 13<br />
::*Chapter 14<br />
::*Chapter 15<br />
::*Chapter 16<br />
::*Chapter 17<br />
::*Chapter 18<br />
::*Chapter 19<br />
::*Chapter 20<br />
::*Chapter 21<br />
::*Chapter 22<br />
::*Chapter 23<br />
<br />
==== GATE 2: FLAME DRAGON ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 2 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 3: UPHEAVAL ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 3 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 4: ALL-OUT ATTACK ====<br />
::*[[:File:GATE 4 Cover Illustration.jpg|Cover illustration]] <br />
<br />
==== GATE 5: DARK GATE ====<br />
<br />
===Light Novel===<br />
A light novel is also being released by Alphapolis. The illustrator is [http://www4.pf-x.net/~kurojishi/ Kurojishi]. There are slight differences between the light novel and the previously published novel.<br />
<br />
====Volume 1 - Contact Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
[[Image: Gate LN Vol 1 - 000a.jpg|thumb|x200px|Volume 1 cover]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 5|Chapter 5]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 6|Chapter 6]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 7|Chapter 7]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 8|Chapter 8]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 9|Chapter 9]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 10|Chapter 10]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 11|Chapter 11]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Chapter 12|Chapter 12]]<br />
:*[[Gate LN:Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
====Volume 2 - Contact Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 3 - Flame Dragon Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 4 - Flame Dragon Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 5 - Upheaval Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 6 - Upheaval Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 7 - All-Out Attack Chapter (First Half)====<br />
<br />
====Volume 8 - All-Out Attack Chapter (Second Half)====<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
*Project Administrator: N/A<br />
*Project Supervisor: N/A<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
<br />
'''K.I.A.'''<br />
:*[[user:RndCodeGen|RndCodeGen]]<br />
:*[[user:DNK|DNK]]<br />
<br />
For such a long series we are extremely short of translators to work on it. We welcome anyone who has good Japanese comprehension capability to join our team. Please leave a message in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4351 Discussion Thread] if you are interested.<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
* Beroin<br />
* {username:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850}<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
<br />
===Main Series===<br />
*'''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri'''<br />
**GATE 1: CONTACT / 接触編 (12 APR 2010, ISBN 978-4434142352)<br />
**GATE 2: FLAME DRAGON / 炎龍編 (5 AUG 2010, ISBN 978-4434147630)<br />
**GATE 3: UPHEAVAL / 動乱編 (24 DEC 2010, ISBN 978-4434152542)<br />
**GATE 4: ALL-OUT ATTACK / 総撃編 (24 JUN 2011, ISBN 978-4434157202)<br />
**GATE 5: DARK GATE / 冥門編 (22 DEC 2011, ISBN 978-4434162381)<br />
<br />
===Spin-off===<br />
*'''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦っちゃってます。/ Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakacchattemasu.'''<br />
** The Episode of Steaming Hot-springs / 湯煙温泉編 ([http://www.mai-net.net/bbs/sst/sst.php?act=dump&cate=original&all=1507&n=1#kiji Arcadia serialization])<br />
** The Episode of the Comike Winter Campaign / 混家冬の陣篇<br />
** The Episode of Thriving Business / 商売繁盛編 ([http://www.mai-net.net/bbs/sst/sst.php?act=dump&cate=original&all=1507&n=2#kiji Arcadia serialization])<br />
<br />
===Light Novel===<br />
*'''自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり / Jieitai Karenochinite Kakutatakaeri'''<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈1〉接触編〈上〉 (DEC 2012, ISBN 978-4434174742)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈1〉接触編〈下〉 (DEC 2012, ISBN 978-4434174759)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈2〉炎龍編〈上〉 (MAR 2013, ISBN 978-4434177026)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈2〉炎龍編〈下〉 (MAR 2013, ISBN 978-4434177033)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈3〉動乱編〈上〉 (JUN 2013, ISBN 978-4434179372)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈3〉動乱編〈下〉 (JUN 2013, ISBN 978-4434179389)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈4〉総撃編〈上〉 (SEP 2013, ISBN 978-4434182396)<br />
**ゲート―自衛隊 彼の地にて、斯く戦えり〈4〉総撃編〈下〉 (SEP 2013, ISBN 978-4434182402)<br />
[[Category:Teasers]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Nogizaka_Haruka_no_Himitsu:Volume1_Chapter1&diff=312190Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1 Chapter12013-12-20T09:12:02Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* 1 */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Chapter 1===<br />
__NOTOC__<br />
==1==<br />
The lunch break on that day wasn't any different from the usual lunch break.<br />
<br />
I was eating lunch and chatting with a few classmates whom I am close to (Nagai, Takenami, and Ogawa, more commonly known as the three idiots) in the 2-1 classroom of the private high school Hakujo Academy. The topic of conversation would probably induce suicidal thoughts in other people. <br />
<br />
"That's why I think that the female sports uniform should have bloomers, anyone who wears [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bermuda_shorts Bermuda shorts] that reach down to the knees isn't human. Anyone who's opposed to this motion isn't a citizen of Japan."<br />
<br />
"That's right, I think so too."<br />
<br />
"You're absolutely right."<br />
<br />
Ogawa and Takenami nodded their heads vigorously in agreement with Nagai's opinion.<br />
<br />
"Yuuto, what do you think?"<br />
<br />
"Hmm? Well, I'm alright with anything I guess."<br />
<br />
I was really alright with anything that the girls wore, which was why I answered the way I did.<br />
<br />
"Alright with anything? It's because of your sitting-on-the-fence attitude that Japan has been brought to its current state of affairs. You're always like this, not taking sides on anything."<br />
<br />
"Ayase, that's what you are. You don't have your own opinion on anything, you always cross the bridge only when you bump into it. You'll be sorry one day if you continue like this."<br />
<br />
"That's right, you can't carry on like this!"<br />
<br />
The three of them took turns taking shots at me, but they were merely meddling in other people's affairs. I don't deny that I'm an irresponsible and insensitive guy (though it's rather embarrassing that I say that about myself), but even I don't want to hear such criticism from three guys who discuss bloomers with perfectly straight faces.<br />
<br />
"Alright, let's do this! You can listen to our respective arguments before deciding which side you're on. We'll start with the visual impact of bloomers."<br />
<br />
Gosh, they really are the 'three idiots'.<br />
<br />
I sighed soundlessly while casually looking around the classroom. Everything was normal, students were eating their lunch while chatting with their friends, making up the familiar lunchtime scenery.<br />
<br />
The spot in the classroom that attracted me the most was that seat next to the corridor. Because in the classroom that is so messy that it would make even the monkey enclosure look tidy, only that particular spot had a soothing and comforting aura around it.<br />
<br />
Seated in that place, was a beautiful girl endowed with the nickname "Nuit Étoile".<br />
<br />
She's my classmate, Nogizaka Haruka.<br />
<br />
She had probably finished lunch already, as she leaned slightly backward and was concentrating on the book that she held in her left hand. The way she flipped the pages of her book with her fingers looked like a scene straight out of a painting. Colloquially, it means that she's too cute to be described. Or perhaps I should say that she's the very embodiment of a perfect and beautiful lady. Anyway, it seems as though all traces of corruption could be washed away just by looking at her.<br />
<br />
[[Image:NHnH vol01 021.jpg|thumb]]<br />
<br />
I stared, mesmerized, at Nogizaka Haruka with my mouth stuffed with bread (while completely ignoring the discussion between Nagai and the others). Yes, the psychological wound received a few moments ago had already been healed. The feeling of pure bliss would probably be something like this, right?<br />
<br />
I immersed myself in the joy of watching her while fantasizing.<br />
<br />
But after a few short minutes, this feeling of bliss was abruptly ended.<br />
<br />
I heard a familiar voice coming from the other side of the corridor. It wasn't a very loud voice, but it would probably take up a lot of my time, since it's probably Nobunaga. I sighed soundlessly again; here comes another idiot.<br />
<br />
"Is Yuuto here?"<br />
<br />
Just as I expected, a familiar face appeared at the entrance of the classroom. He's a petite pretty boy with light brown hair whom others would mistake as a girl from afar. This fellow started shouting the moment he saw me.<br />
<br />
"Ah! There you are! Yuuto, did you catch the anime that aired late last night? I recorded it as I watched because I feel that that's the best way to appreciate it."<br />
<br />
The volume of his voice attracted some attention from the other students in class, but after everyone saw that it was from Nobunaga, they resumed whatever it was they were doing before immediately. I don't know how to put it, but anyway, my classmates have gotten used to his presence after he's been coming over to talk to me since the start of the school year.<br />
<br />
"You didn't watch it? Yesterday's 「The Shy Triangle」 will air its last episode next week, and the climax of the entire series is when the good friend of the protagonist...Ah, the DVD seems to be going on sale soon, I'll definitely go and buy it, since it's going to be a limited edition and will come with a figurine of the protagonist 'Clumsy girl Aki-chan'..."<br />
<br />
The guy who ran into my classroom and started talking about a topic that one would find it hard to associate with his appearance is Asakura Nobunaga. I've known him since kindergarten, which is why you could use the phrase 'hellish bonds of friendship' to describe our relationship, though he's still a good friend of mine, since he doesn't get me into any trouble. Honestly speaking, he's still quite a cheerful and sociable person, which is why he can strike up a conversation with almost anyone. His academic results are extremely good, with Physics and Mathematics being his best subjects. From his earlier actions, you can tell that his hobby is a rather extreme one, a form of otaku-ism...which is what we all know as the 'Akihabara clan'. The man whose name is a combination of the names of two imperial generals has a weak looking exterior and a hobby which neither fit the names of a warring general nor his appearance. In conclusion, he's a guy with complicated characteristics and is hard to place into any category.<br />
<br />
"Yuuto, you've really missed out by not watching. This anime series was adapted from a manga, but its something like a tale prior to the story, explaining why the protagonist and his best friend turned against each other......"<br />
<br />
"Ah------ I got that already!"<br />
<br />
I had to do something to shut him up or he'll eat up my entire lunch break. I took this course of action precisely based on past experiences.<br />
<br />
"It's not nice of you to be such a wet blanket when I was just getting into my rhythm!"<br />
<br />
"It's not nice of you to suddenly run into someone else's classroom to spam him with your personal hobby!"<br />
<br />
"Is that so? But doesn't everyone like to talk about these kind of things?"<br />
<br />
"Please do not think that everyone is like you!"<br />
<br />
"Hmm, but, you like these kind of things, don't you?"<br />
<br />
"Don't I always say that I don't have any special inclination?"<br />
<br />
I don't like it, but I don't hate it either. I don't agree with it, but I don't disagree with it either. This is my stance regarding this fellow, and the rest of the Akihabara clan. No, to be more precise, it's more of 'I don't really understand them'. In short, I'm still quite mystified regarding the age-old question of 'why are people at this age still so interested in cartoons', and even more surprisingly, I'm actually good friends with someone like this.<br />
<br />
"Hmm...But I've always thought that you have the right attributes."<br />
<br />
What kind of attributes?<br />
<br />
"That's the highest level of praise that I'll give to anyone, you know. Hmm...let's not talk about this anymore. Yuuto, I've got big news for you!"<br />
<br />
"Big news?"<br />
<br />
I felt that what this fellow was going to say probably won't be anything serious and wholesome, but...<br />
<br />
"I've been looking for a certain magazine all this while, haven't I? Our school's library finally bought this old issue! Our library's the best, I can import in any rare book that I want by just filling in an application form. The school can afford to buy all these books because of the extremely generous donations that they have been receiving. Their funds seem limitless. Money really makes the world go round indeed, yah~"<br />
<br />
Nobunaga grinned widely as he babbled on and on about this big news.<br />
<br />
Magazine? I seem to remember him asking me to help look for a magazine with an extremely strange name a while back. Looks like the school had approved his application form.<br />
<br />
"......Wait a minute, did you fake an application form?"<br />
<br />
I looked at him suspiciously.<br />
<br />
"That's rude, I would never do something like that."<br />
<br />
Nobunaga shook his head as he gave a "you're totally wrong" expression, and then answered with a perfectly straight face, "I merely threatened them."<br />
<br />
That's even worse.<br />
<br />
But that fellow completely ignored my reaction.<br />
<br />
"「INNOCENT SMILE」 is an extremely famous magazine! The original manga of the anime that aired yesterday night was serialized in this magazine. It wasn't too long ago, so you probably should have some memory of it. It caused quite a stir when its first edition came out."<br />
<br />
Just as Nobunaga went into his extremely long-winded debate mode, there was a huge noise in the classroom.<br />
<br />
Our position was in the middle of the classroom, while the sound came from the opposite direction. To be more precise, it came from the second-last seat from the corridor, which was the place that held my attention before Nobunaga came in. From a certain perspective, that was the one place in class that would never be associated with loud and jarring noises.<br />
<br />
But right now, Nogizaka-san was standing there with her eyes trained on the two of us, with a chair lying face-down, the source of that loud noise, beside her feet.<br />
<br />
The classroom suddenly became extremely quiet. Nogizaka-san, who always wore an expression of peaceful serenity, now had a disturbed expression on her face.<br />
<br />
"No...Nogizaka-san, what happened?"<br />
<br />
"I...I don't know, we didn't do anything weird did we?"<br />
<br />
"She seems to be looking at Ayase-kun..."<br />
<br />
Murmurings were heard in the classroom.<br />
<br />
Did we do something wrong?<br />
<br />
Even though I felt that we hadn't done anything, the sharp gaze that Nogizaka-san threw at us was that of a policewoman who has just caught a molester in the act on a crowded train. Under a gaze of that nature, Nobunaga and I really looked like we had done something against the welfare of society, and the looks from the rest of the class seemed to ask the exact same question, 'What did the two of you do?'.<br />
<br />
"Yuuto, what do we do? Everyone's looking at us."<br />
<br />
"Ye......Yeah......"<br />
<br />
I thought that the most probable reason would be that Nobunaga's voice was way too loud, disturbing Nogizaka-san's reading. Even though I was already used to it, Nobunaga's voice would naturally become extremely loud when he talked about his hobby. It wouldn't come as much of a surprise if that had disturbed Nogizaka-san.<br />
<br />
Which would mean that we had really done something wrong. So we should probably apologize.<br />
<br />
Under the watchful eyes of the rest of the class, I walked towards Nogizaka-san's seat.<br />
<br />
"Erm......I'm sorry for disturbing you with our loud conversation."<br />
<br />
I bowed deeply as an apology, Nogizaka-san then seemed to regain her usual expression.<br />
<br />
"Ah, that's not it, you've misunderstood. I didn't mean to blame the two of you or anything, so you don't have to apologize to me."<br />
<br />
"?"<br />
<br />
But, weren't you glaring at the two of us just a few moments ago?<br />
<br />
"It's nothing, so, it's nothing......I'm sorry for troubling everyone."<br />
<br />
After saying that, Nogizaka-san politely bowed to the rest of the class as she righted her chair and sat down as though nothing had happened.<br />
<br />
However, this left us extremely confused.<br />
<br />
"What just happened?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know...... Wasn't it because of the noise you were making?"<br />
<br />
"I'm not noisy!"<br />
<br />
I ignored Nobunaga's contradictory loud shout to defend his stance that he's not loud, but instead I stared at Nogizaka-san like someone who had been played around with by a fox spirit. On the regal face of the "Nuit Étoile", a trace of uneasiness could still be seen... there has to be some reason for that.<br />
<br />
Deviating from the topic at hand, from the time when Nobunaga rushed into the classroom to when Nogizaka stared at us, Nagai and the other two were still heatedly debating on the topic of bloomers. Was that due to concentration, or just plain stupidity?<br />
<br />
I think the correct answer should be the latter.<br />
<br />
Actually, I didn't really care if they're idiots or not.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The fifth and sixth periods ended without incident. After class had ended, I walked towards the library only because that Nobunaga told me......<br />
<br />
"Yuuto, I'm really sorry, but could you help me return this book to the library? Since you're free after school anyway, while I have to rush back to finish the map for WonFes--<!--(Note:Short form for Wonder Festival a large toys exhibition that is held annually in Japan)-->"<br />
<br />
......Geez! I don't know what Wan Wan Fes. (Could it be a festival for dogs? But I recall that guy having a cat instead...). If it's like this, then he should have just returned it yesterday! But thoughts are just thoughts, and I agreed to help him, as he had often helped me out before (like him lending me textbooks when I forgot mine: helping me to repair my computer when it broke down......etc), oh well, I really had nothing to do after school anyway.<br />
<br />
And this was why I came to the library, a place where I would normally almost never set foot in.<br />
<br />
It was said that the rate of usage for our library was unbelievably low, because, the number of people, including yours truly, who've actually used the library could be counted on one hand. To increase the rate of usage of the library, the school even set up an electronic lending system, renovated the library to be an extremely comfortable place for reading, and had bought books of all genres. But to the modern generation of children who're far disposed from printed products, all these measures were for naught, as nothing had changed. But I have not used the library for anything other than afternoon naps, so who am I to say anything.<br />
<br />
Anyway, because of the pitiful number of users, I shouldn't need much time to return a book.<br />
<br />
I walked towards the computer terminal and started to tap the keyboard. One has to use the computer to borrow or return books, which was rather tedious (Nobunaga said that once you get used to it, computers would definitely be faster than human processing). Oh well, if I felt that something as simple as this was tedious, then I probably won't be able to survive in modern society. The man who doesn't work does not get to eat. I entered the reference code of the book and my student identification number......OK, that's it. I only have to return the book to its place on the shelf. (By the way, the title of the book is 「Pretty Girl Models Collection III --- The History of Ball Joints」. Our school really does buy everything). Mission accomplished, I can go home now.<br />
<br />
Just as I was about to walk towards the exit.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
I spotted a suspicious character.<br />
<br />
How should I put this? Mm, it is an extremely suspicious character indeed.<br />
<br />
Because this person is hiding her face with her schoolbag while attempting to move stealthily behind the bookshelves like a ninja or assassin, and its a female student to boot. Thus if this is not strange, then what is (sarcasm)... What is with that person? She seems to want to conceal her movements, but isn't this making it worse, and attracting more attention instead? Or, could it be that she actually wanted attention instead?<br />
<br />
In any case, it would be better not to come into contact with someone like that. Troubles come about from the mouth<!-- this is a saying that if troubles brew when you say something wrong etc-->, as long as you are not overly curious, even the cat could suffer an unexplained death<!--came from the saying curiosity killed the cat-->. Just as I decided to pretend not to see anything and tried to get out of the library---<br />
<br />
I saw the face of the suspicious character behind the bookshelf.<br />
<br />
At that moment, I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me.<br />
<br />
I thought I was hallucinating due to my brain's rejection reaction towards this library that I almost never step into.<br />
<br />
"......"<br />
<br />
Why would I think that way?<br />
<br />
Because I was extremely familiar with that face.<br />
<br />
"That's......"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san?<br />
<br />
As unbelievable as it sounds, that suspicious person really was Nogizaka Haruka. I would never mistake that beautiful face of hers even if I was a mile away. But why was she behaving so strangely?<br />
<br />
I was bursting with questions, but Nogizaka-san didn't notice me as she ambled up to the computer terminal beside me, with the air of a 15-year old girl who's preparing to steal a motorcycle in the middle of the night, and began to type. I saw a magazine beside her, so she was probably planning to borrow it.<br />
<br />
Tap, tap, I heard the sound of fingers on the keyboard.<br />
<br />
She had probably finished borrowing the book, as Nogizaka-san lifted her head from the terminal with the smile of a German expert. Just as she prepared to walk towards the exit......<br />
<br />
Our eyes met.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
At that moment, time stopped.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"...Erm...What brings you here?"<br />
<br />
That was what I wanted to ask her, but it wasn't surprising that Nogizaka-san would look at me as though she was looking at that legendary giant monster Uma, because the probability of meeting me in the library was lower than meeting a yeti.<br />
<br />
"Since when have you been standing here?"<br />
<br />
"For a while now."<br />
<br />
"You...You saw it?"<br />
<br />
"?"<br />
<br />
Saw what?<br />
<br />
"You...You saw the book that I borrowed..."<br />
<br />
"No, I didn't see it..."<br />
<br />
"Oh, is that so? Hoo!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's expression was reminiscent of a middle-aged manager who just found out that he wasn't on the list of retrenched personnel. What's happening?<br />
<br />
"?"<br />
<br />
"Ah! It...It's nothing, Ayase-kun, please don't think about it, I'll be going now."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san hurriedly nodded to me as she strode towards the exit. Maybe because she was disturbed by my presence, but she totally didn't notice that she was walking towards a reading table and chair set.<br />
<br />
"Ah...Nogizaka-san, that's......"<br />
<br />
"Hiiee!?"<br />
<br />
And then!<br />
<br />
Smash!<br />
<br />
In the midst of the noise of falling furniture, Nogizaka-san, who'd tripped over a chair, fell onto her back. This was a breathtaking set of actions that one would be hard-pressed to produce.<br />
<br />
"Ou...Ouch! Why would there be a chair here..."<br />
<br />
Things were becoming stranger, those chairs have always been there, and the serenely-peaceful Nogizaka-san would actually do something out of character. Just what was happening? Perhaps this was what "even the most complete strategy could fail" was referring to?<br />
<br />
Whatever the case, I couldn't possibly just leave her there, so I helped Nogizaka-san up. From a certain perspective, Nogizaka-san probably brought it upon herself! But it would have been ungentlemanly of me not to help a girl who has just fallen down in front of you (especially if that girl is Nogizaka Haruka), and I have a National Gentlemanly Conduct Grade 2 certificate......Even though I just made that up myself.<!-- "Even though I gave this to myself"? --><br />
<br />
"Ah......Thank you! I'm so sorry!"<br />
<br />
After helping up the almond-eyed Nogizaka-san, I turned my eyes to her personal belongings that were scattered all over the place.<br />
<br />
It was really a mess, but just as I was going to help her pick up her things...<br />
<br />
"No...You can't!"<br />
<br />
That scream was unbelievably loud, the kind that you hear when a bedroom scene suddenly shows on the T.V. when you're eating with your family. I can't? What does she mean? Is she saying that I'm not allowed to touch her personal things with my dirty hands......? No, I don't think Nogizaka-san would think that way.<br />
<br />
"?"<br />
<br />
Although I didn't know why Nogizaka-san wanted to stop me, I still reached out to help her pick up the magazine.<br />
<br />
"No, don't do it!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san reached out towards the magazine at my feet like a depraved bandit.<br />
<br />
But...<br />
<br />
"Ah?"<br />
<br />
On the path of her trajectory, there was a mathematics notebook!<br />
<br />
"Ah? This...!?"<br />
<br />
She stepped onto that notebook with one hundred percent accuracy!!<br />
<br />
"Ehhhhhhh!?"<br />
<br />
The foot that had all the force of her body weight behind it, was set free from its contact with the ground by virtue of the friction (or lack thereof) between the notebook and the floor of the library!<br />
<br />
"Kyaaaaaa!"<br />
<br />
And then, her body flew into the air, while directly in front of her......was a bookshelf.<br />
<br />
Smash! Boom!<br />
<br />
In the midst of an even louder crash, the bookshelf toppled over from Nogizaka-san's spinning attack. And then, the toppled shelf hit the one beside it, and the one beside it toppled over onto another shelf......the bookshelves toppled one by one like dominoes.<br />
<br />
In the space of a few short seconds, all the bookshelves had toppled over.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
In a mere instant, the library had become ground zero.<br />
<br />
Erm......<br />
<br />
What just happened? I frantically tried to piece together the chronology of events.<br />
<br />
What I see now is a library floor that's completely covered with books, making it look like a library from hell, and Nogizaka-san, who's never gotten into a fight her whole life, but had boldly smashed her way towards the bookshelf, plus her personal belongings that were spread out all over the floor.<br />
<br />
What am I doing here?<br />
<br />
Though I had blanked out for a moment there, I suddenly remembered what I was doing when I looked at all the things on the floor. That's right, I was trying to help Nogizaka-san pick up her personal belongings.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san didn't seem to be hurt, so I wanted to help her pick everything up. And the first book that I picked up was that magazine by my feet!!!<br />
<br />
---I finally found out the reason behind Nogizaka-san's panic.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
There was an anime-style picture with a girl who had hair the color of the sky, something that could never be achieved through natural genetic inheritance, and a pair of biologically impossible large and sparkling eyes. The girl was smiling as she grabbed the hem of her skirt lightly with her fingers.<br />
<br />
Below the picture was an overly photoshopped caption which read 「INNOCENT SMILE」 in bold and think yellow letters.<br />
<br />
"This..."<br />
<br />
I was speechless for a moment. This...was definitely the magazine that Nobunaga was talking about. But, why would Nogizaka-san want to borrow this book...<br />
<br />
I had no time to continue my line of thought before a surprising voice entered my ears.<br />
<br />
"Sob...sob...I've been seen, I've been seen!"<br />
<br />
I only realized that the situation was serious when I saw that it was the sound of Nogizaka-san crying.<br />
<br />
Due to the commotion, a few students from the art room had already gathered at the library.<br />
<br />
"It's all over......sob..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san was still crying.<br />
<br />
Actually, in this kind of situation, I felt that I should be the one that it was 'all over' for.<br />
<br />
The stares from the surrounding students were sharp and piercing, turning the library into a much more dangerous place<!-- more dangerous compared to what? -->. Though there were only four or five students from the art room at the scene, their looks made me feel like I was the kind of contemptible man who extorted money from his girlfriend until she couldn't take it anymore and wanted a break-up, whereupon I bullied her until she cried. That kind of look was extremely uncomfortable to bear.<br />
<br />
"What's happening? Aren't those two dating? -whisper whisper-"<br />
<br />
"They are? But the guy looks like he doesn't really care about what's happening? -whisper whisper-"<br />
<br />
"Was he the one who pushed down all the bookshelves? -whisper whisper-"<br />
<br />
"Isn't he Ayase-kun of class 1? -whisper whisper-"<br />
<br />
Listening to the contents of the whisperings, the only bright spot was that they hadn't realized that the crying girl was Nogizaka Haruka.<br />
<br />
"The girl must have been begging him not to abandon her when he pushed her into the bookshelves."<br />
<br />
"How could he! That's despicable!"<br />
<br />
"Enemy of all women!"<br />
<br />
"Detestable man!"<br />
<br />
They were really going overboard here.<br />
<br />
But from an objective point of view, it really did look like I had made Nogizaka-san cry, because that was practically the only possibility that could be inferred from the situation in the library, so I couldn't really blame the whispering students either.<br />
<br />
In a nutshell, one thing was certain.<br />
<br />
And that was, if I continued to stay at the scene of the crime, my bad reputation would be the talk of the entire school by tomorrow morning.<br />
<br />
That's why...<br />
<br />
With reference to the wisdom passed down by our ancestors, it was time to make a retreat! Therefore I picked up the stuff scattered all over the floor at breakneck speed, grabbed the hand of Nogizaka-san, who was still crying, and ran for our dear lives!! In truth...<br />
<br />
We really were running for our lives!! From the library that is. From behind us...<br />
<br />
"Ah! They've escaped!"<br />
<br />
"He's kidnapping her?"<br />
<br />
"They're eloping?"<br />
<br />
"It should be the former, it's obvious that it's the former."<br />
<br />
Those few lines were slightly better. But, why must they see me as the villain? I haven't done anything wrong.<br />
<br />
Even I felt like crying, but when compared to a woman's tears that are like pearls, a man's tears are merely salt water. Other than the ability to melt slugs, salt water was practically useless.<br />
<br />
But...why did it turn out like this?<br />
<br />
I sighed deeply as I tried to look for a place where we wouldn't be seen. My feelings right now were heavier than a meat-cow that was being sent to the slaughterhouse.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Because of this...<br />
<br />
I, who had been accused of breaking the law and of being a detestable man, finally made it out of the library with Nogizaka-san in tow, coming to a stop on the roof of the school. To someone without an exceptional <!-- word choice? --> brain like me, this was the only place I could think of which could let us talk in peace and not be seen.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san had already stopped crying...but right now, she still wore a blank expression as her shoulders continued to shiver, giving an impression that was completely different from the perfect 'Nuit Étoile', as she appeared to be infinitely delicate. I had never noticed that Nogizaka-san was actually so petite.<br />
<br />
There was only one reason behind Nogizaka-san's panic.<br />
<br />
And that was the copy of 「INNOCENT SMILE」 that I held in my left hand.<br />
<br />
Because everything happened so fast, I had no time to organize my thoughts. But after calming down and thinking about it, I understood why she was in such a panic.<br />
<br />
Which is to say...<br />
<br />
"Nogizaka-san...You're an otaku..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san gave a start at my words. Bingo! Looks like I was right!<br />
<br />
Which means that the incident at lunch break was only her reaction to Nobunaga's reference to 「INNOCENT SMILE」. But no, now is not the time to be analyzing her actions calmly.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san was extremely depressed.<br />
<br />
Looks like Nogizaka-san was extremely bothered by the fact that someone knew that she was an otaku, but it was indeed extremely surprising.<br />
<br />
Normal people would be more condemning with regards to the different hobbies of a small group of people, but there were so many of such things in Nobunaga's room that it made you want to vomit (literally), so I don't really mind these kind of things.<br />
<br />
"Erm, Nogizaka-san..."<br />
<br />
I decided to move on.<br />
<br />
"...Mm?"<br />
<br />
A flash of fear suddenly cut across Nogizaka-san's dull-looking eyes.<br />
<br />
"Erm...I've already forgotten everything that I saw today."<br />
<br />
"Huh?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san, who was looking like a wilted flower, finally perked up a little.<br />
<br />
"I'm not saying that I don't care about you......but you seem to be extremely disturbed about this incident, right? So I'll forget everything that has happened today, I won't tell anyone about this, and I won't mention it in front of you either, so you don't need to worry."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
After listening to my long sentence, Nogizaka-san had a stunned expression on her face, looking like a deer that was going to be shot by a hunter. Did I say anything weird?<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
For a while, Nogizaka-san stopped moving. Hmm...this looks bad, and it could become even worse if I don't try to cheer her up. Just as I started to think of ways to do that...<br />
<br />
"Ayase-kun, please do not take me for an idiot, and please do not look at me with such a strange gaze."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san spoke.<br />
<br />
"Strange gaze? What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"Well......Because......most people are openly disapproving of this kind of hobby. So..."<br />
<br />
Maybe she had thought of something, which was why Nogizaka-san would say this kind of thing. Openly disapproving? Though there was some truth in that, but...<br />
<br />
"I understand what you're trying to say, but...even if you have that kind of hobby, a normal person is still a normal person, a strange person is still a strange person. That's why I don't believe in judging a person by their hobbies."<br />
<br />
Nobunaga is the best example. He's the perfect embodiment of an otaku, and though he is a bit...strange, he's definitely not a bad person, or I wouldn't have been his best friend for more than ten years.<br />
<br />
"But...But..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san still had a worried look on her face. Hmm...How should I explain this?<br />
<br />
"What I mean is, even if you have this kind of hobby, you're still you, right? That won't change, so you don't have to think about it so much."<br />
<br />
"I'm...still myself?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san stuttered a reply.<br />
<br />
"That's right! To be honest, being an otaku is just another hobby. In the end, I just think that it's an accompanying gift of a person's character. Because the nature of that gift differs from one person to the next, it's merely a small part of a person's character. A person's most important part shouldn't be here, should it? And..."<br />
<br />
"...And what?"<br />
<br />
"Hmm...I don't really know how to say this. But when I found out that you have a side that no one else knows about, I felt that it was really interesting..."<br />
<br />
"Huh..."<br />
<br />
"Or maybe I should say that I feel that I've gotten a little closer to you, so I'm happy..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's face was beet-red.<br />
<br />
Although my words seemed to be nonchalant, it was a true reflection of my feelings.<br />
<br />
But Nogizaka-san seemed to be seriously listening to my words.<br />
<br />
"You're probably the first person to say this to me."<br />
<br />
Probably? If not for this chance encounter, I didn't think I'd say something like this to the 'Nuit Étoile' either.<br />
<br />
"Anyway, that's how it is, so I don't think you need to be too bothered by it."<br />
<br />
Seeing that Nogizaka-san had calmed down, I passed the magazine to her, patted her lightly on the shoulder, and left the roof of the school building. I walked down the stairs, changed shoes at the lobby, and walked out of the school gate, finally able to move freely again.<br />
<br />
I lectured Nogizaka Haruka.<br />
<br />
I actually lectured Nogizaka-san with a mountain of extremely weird talk. Something which I really regret doing now, because I actually lectured a classmate with whom I had barely exchanged two sentences with before. Looks like I'm the weird one here. But it was all over now, and there was no point thinking about how I regret doing it.<br />
<br />
In conclusion, my relationship with Nogizaka Haruka should probably stop here shouldn't it?<br />
<br />
No matter how you look at it, she's the prettiest girl in school, she's an extremely smart girl with brilliant academic results, and also the daughter of one of the wealthiest families in Japan, while I'm an average common citizen. Even if I do know that Nogizaka-san has her panicky moments, even if that has brought me closer to her, to be honest, we're still two people from completely different worlds. Today's incident was merely an accidental crossing of two parallel lines.<br />
<br />
At least, that was what I had thought at that time.<br />
<br />
==2==<br />
<br />
Over the next few days, nothing of particular importance happened.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san was still the school's most unattainable girl, while I continued to stumble through school. Rushing into class before the first bell rang, fighting against the sleep demon during lessons, chatting with Nagai and the others for a few minutes after lessons, either going to the arcade or listening to Nobunaga's endless fountain of otaku knowledge after school. I didn't have any goal in life, and I've never had a lifelong dream either. Though my everyday life was boring, it was extremely stable; it was the average life that I loved.<br />
<br />
But within these unchanging days, I realized that one thing had changed.<br />
<br />
And that was...<br />
<br />
From that day onwards, the times which my gaze settled on Nogizaka-san has increased. In the classroom, I suddenly realized that I was staring at her. Hmm...Just what is happening?<br />
<br />
"About that, I think that's called love."<br />
<br />
"Argh!?"<br />
<br />
Nobunaga's idiotic face suddenly appeared from the side.<br />
<br />
"Yo! Yuuto! Let's eat lunch together!"<br />
<br />
"When...When did you get here?"<br />
<br />
I didn't feel his presence at all.<br />
<br />
"Heh heh, stealth is one of my 48 special abilities!"<br />
<br />
I've known this fellow for more than ten years, and still do not know everything about him...oh well, its not like I want to anyway.<br />
<br />
Going back to the main topic.<br />
<br />
"Love? Nobunaga, what do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"Gaining and losing, unable to differentiate between what's true and what's not, that's a person in love."<br />
<br />
I know that, but my situation's not like that.<br />
<br />
"I would advise you not to have any ideas about the 'Nuit Étoile'."<br />
<br />
Nobunaga ignored my response as he pulled up a chair from a neighboring table to sit in front of me while he began to speak.<br />
<br />
"How should I put this...For someone like you, she's in another league. Hmm...it's just that your social statuses are different!"<br />
<br />
"Hmm."<br />
<br />
"Yuuto, I don't think you know this, but in the time span of a little more than a year that she has entered this school, the number of people who have confessed their love for the 'Nuit Étoile' was, 94 people in total, 78 guys and 16 girls, about 20% of our school's population, while the number of people who have been rejected was also 94, which means that there is a 100% chance of getting rejected. An extremely scary statistic isn't it!"<br />
<br />
My god...I know that Nogizaka-san was popular, but 16 girls? What's the meaning of that? Girls! And why would this guy have such detailed information on his hands?<br />
<br />
"This kind of information gathering is one of the mandatory skills required of the modern man. I could also tell you the basic personal information of the 'Nuit Étoile', hmm...Nogizaka Haruka, 16 years-old, born on the 20th of October, 155cm tall, excels at every subject, does not have a weak subject, has a grandfather, her parents, and a sister that's 3 years her junior in her immediate family..."<br />
<br />
Nobunaga read off a notebook-like contraption that he fished out of his pocket...when did he become a stalker?<br />
<br />
"Hey, don't look at me like I'm some kind of pervert, that's really rude of you! I'm not interested in real-life girls, for 2D girls are better, the most special of them being the cat-maid with a tail......"<br />
<br />
I didn't even ask him about that kind of thing, as even if I were to retort, it would be obvious that we were on a different wavelength.<br />
<br />
"And in such an information-laden time, anyone would be able to find out such information. This is a digitalized society, though there's a law regarding the protection of personal privacy, as long as one has the will, it's extremely easy to extract such information. Just tell me if you need information regarding other people. I know just about everything about everyone in school."<br />
<br />
Nobunaga told me as he smiled generously.<br />
<br />
...This person's dangerous! I've got to avoid having him as my enemy!<br />
<br />
"This is just my personal opinion! It's lamentable, but if you were to attempt to woo the 'Nuit Étoile', I think your chance of failure is 99.9%. According to my sources, even the basketball team captain, Sasaoka-senpai, was one of the rejected. He's actually a man-made hunk who had gone for plastic surgery, so if even someone like him got rejected, you..."<br />
<br />
"...Don't look at me with that glimmer of pity in your eyes!"<br />
<br />
"No, I'm not saying that you're not good or anything, it's just that you've chosen the hardest opponent of all. I just wanted to warn you that the 'Nuit Étoile' is the strongest opponent in our school."<br />
<br />
Nobunaga shrugged as he smiled,<br />
<br />
"But, no matter what you decide to do, I'll support you since we're childhood friends."<br />
<br />
It's really disgusting to be described as 'childhood friends' by another guy. No, that's not the point.<br />
<br />
"...I've never thought of wooing Nogizaka-san."<br />
<br />
"Really?"<br />
<br />
What are you so suspicious about! I've never told anyone about this from the start.<br />
<br />
"Since you said it, let's not talk about this anymore. But, have you heard this phrase before?"<br />
<br />
Nobunaga had a wise expression on his face as he continued,<br />
<br />
" 'To start to care is to start to fall in love!' By Asakura Nobunaga."<br />
<br />
Just where did he get that from! I've never heard that!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I don't know if it was the influence of Nobunaga's words, but the frequency with which I looked at Nogizaka-san actually increased after that conversation. During lessons, after lessons, after school, as long as I had the chance, I would look for her. This is bad, I seem to have contracted some serious disease.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A few more days passed after that.<br />
<br />
This incident happened one morning two weeks after that day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
==3==<br />
"We're going to conduct a check on personal belongings now, so please take out everything from your bag!"<br />
<br />
The form teacher's, Tanabe Shigeo (38 years-old, male, single), words caused a stir in the classroom. While it was a mandatory check, it was understandable that the students were still unhappy about it.<br />
<br />
"Be quiet! I'll be checking the guys, while Kamishiro-sensei will be checking the girls."<br />
<br />
Kamishiro-sensei is our assistant-form teacher, and a light music teacher who had only just graduated from an all-girls university last year. She didn't put on any airs, was well-liked by her students, and was also extremely pretty. She's pretty, cute, and her figure's......Hmm? I seem to have deviated from the main topic.<br />
<br />
Speaking of which, I immediately thought of one thing when I heard that there was going to be a check.<br />
<br />
It can't be that much of a coincidence can it? Nogizaka-san can't be holding that book right now, right?<br />
<br />
The time limit for borrowing a book from our school library was two weeks. If she had really held the book until the last day, then she would have to return it today. No, she can't be that unlucky!!<br />
<br />
I nonchalantly looked behind me, and saw that Nogizaka-san's face had gone ashen, looking as though she was the victim of a murder.<br />
<br />
....Ah, she must be holding the book right now.<br />
<br />
"Please endure the check for a while more, it's finishing soon."<br />
<br />
As per the instructions of Kamishiro-sensei, the female students began to place their personal belongings on their desks, as Nogizaka-san could only do the same with a helpless look in her eyes. I seemed to have caught a glimpse of the magazine that I had seen two weeks ago hidden among the textbooks and music scores on her table.<br />
<br />
What should I do?<br />
<br />
I thought about it, and I shouldn't do anything, since it's not like I'm not obliged to help her or anything.<br />
<br />
But...<br />
<br />
The image of Nogizaka-san crying from two weeks ago suddenly flashed across my mind. Even though I've already seen her uncontrollable sobbing, if that were to repeat itself in front of the entire class, just what kind of situation would it result in? Hmm...I didn't even dare to imagine it, but I know that it wouldn't be pretty for the pampered daughter of a wealthy family like Nogizaka-san to react to this kind of sudden event. She probably wouldn't even know what to do.<br />
<br />
Was there really no way around it? No matter if it was a mud boat or the Titanic, she had already boarded the vessel, so I should be doing something to help her. But just as I realized that the opponent was Kamishiro-sensei, I couldn't think of any plan of attack. Two negatives make a positive, there must be a way, I can't miss this opportunity!<br />
<br />
God, why is my brain so slow to react in the morning!<br />
<br />
I raised my hand to speak.<br />
<br />
"I...My stomach really hurts, may I make a trip to the washroom?"<br />
<br />
"What's wrong? Did you eat too much for breakfast? Never mind, since you've passed the check already, you may go."<br />
<br />
The 38 year-old Tanabe Shigeo obnoxiously said something which implied that he didn't care about his students at all. As he made his way around the desks of his students, I thought that the reason behind the fact that he still hasn't gotten married was due to his character...Oh well, it's not like it's any business of mine. I pretended to be in pain as I slanted my body while walking towards the exit of the classroom, passing by Nogizaka-san's seat in the process.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
"Huh?"<br />
<br />
After saying that to Nogizaka-san, who was on the verge of tears, I pretended to trip on a bag on the floor as I deliberately fell towards her table.<br />
<br />
"Eh? Ah!"<br />
<br />
The table fell over as the textbooks, scores and other stuff that were on it flew onto the floor as well. Together with Nogizaka-san's low scream, her surroundings descended into chaos.<br />
<br />
"Nogizaka-san, are you alright?"<br />
<br />
"Ayase, get lost!"<br />
<br />
"All you do is to get in the way of others! You better get away from Nogizaka-san this instant!"<br />
<br />
My classmates started shouting at me from all corners of the classroom. How could it be that not even one of them cared about my condition?<br />
<br />
"Ayase-kun. What are you doing!?"<br />
<br />
Kamishiro-sensei walked over. She probably didn't see it.<br />
<br />
"Sorry, I was trying to get to the washroom as soon as possible when I tripped."<br />
<br />
"You're always so rash. Alright, just carry on and leave this to me."<br />
<br />
"Sorry to trouble you."<br />
<br />
I nodded towards Kamishiro-sensei, who had a conspiratorial smile on her face, and hurried out of the classroom.<br />
<br />
I walked along the corridor to the washroom, clutching my stomach with one hand.<br />
<br />
There shouldn't be a stalker hiding in the men's toilet right now, but for the sake of secrecy, I confirmed that there wasn't anyone else in the washroom before taking out a rectangular object from the inside of my uniform. No prizes for guessing the correct answer, of course it was the 「INNOCENT SMILE」. The blue-haired girl on the cover was still smiling happily. Phew, at least I successfully smuggled it out!<br />
<br />
"This is..."<br />
<br />
Just as I was congratulating myself, I suddenly realized that there was something else beneath the magazine, an expensive-looking green book. This is a book of musical scores, one of those that was on Nogizaka-san's table. Looks like in my hurry to smuggle the magazine out of the classroom, I had taken something else out along with it.<br />
<br />
"Composed by Franz Liszt. Erster Mephisto-Walzer No. 1, S514"<br />
<br />
Such a resounding name for a piece. The Waltz of Mephisto. I flipped the book open, only to find that its interior was covered with musical symbols which I didn't understand. Wow.<br />
<br />
She's too brilliant! I don't know anything about playing the piano. But in that moment, I already knew that this wasn't a piece that an average high school student could play. Which was why I could only stand there in awe of Nogizaka-san's piano prowess.<br />
<br />
I carefully closed the thick score that once again reminded me of how perfect Nogizaka-san is.<br />
<br />
At that moment, something strange loomed up in the corner of my vision.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
This is a drawing right? A horrific-looking villain with the eyes of a bloodthirsty bear was drawn in one corner of the piano score. He was holding a conductor's baton in one hand, while in a speech bubble beside him contained, 'please remember not to play at too fast a tempo at this part♪', written in pink ink. In the stark contrast between the picture and the contents of the speech bubble, the reminder appeared to be extremely impish.<br />
<br />
But the bear really wasn't drawn very nicely, as it also looked like a man-eating wolf, or a large bloodhound, or a failed clone of Godzilla. As for the object that it held in its hand, it looked like a saber, a police baton, or even an ill-designed lightsaber.<br />
<br />
To be honest, that drawing was extremely bad. So bad that a kindergarten kid with a little bit of talent in the arts would be able to draw something better.<br />
<br />
"...I'll just pretend that I didn't see it!"<br />
<br />
After mulling it over, I felt that this was the wisest course of action. There are a lot of things in the world that are best left hidden and not known to mankind. See no evil.<br />
<br />
After looking at it for a while more, I quietly closed the score.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After school, Kamishiro-sensei called me to the office.<br />
<br />
She seemed to have seen through my act in the morning.<br />
<br />
"You hid something at that time didn't you?"<br />
<br />
Kamishiro-sensei crossed her legs in a way that would desolate the eyes of innocent youths as she asked. Against this sort of opponent, that the ill-conceived trick would be seen through shouldn't be much of a surprise. So I thought about how best to answer the question.<br />
<br />
"Hmm...I admit that I hid something, but I assure you, it wasn't anything contraband. It was an object that would bring great distress to a teenage girl, which was why I took such a drastic and rash measure to solve the problem."<br />
<br />
I just gave an answer that even I didn't understand, but Kamishiro-sensei gave a devilish smile as though I just sold my soul to her.<br />
<br />
"I believe you. You were trying to protect Haruka, right?"<br />
<br />
"No, about this..."<br />
<br />
"Am I wrong?"<br />
<br />
"Ugh..."<br />
<br />
It seems like...she's seen through everything. It's true that aged ginger is more pungent, so I should just keep my mouth shut for now.<br />
<br />
"Alright you don't have to give me the details, so let's just put this matter behind us. Mm...it must be nice to be young and so full of energy. The exuberant youthfulness of the E generation, if only I was five years younger!"<br />
<br />
Kamishiro-sensei's eyes sparkled with an unearthly light, she seemed to be rather happy. Though she seemed to have misunderstood something, but any attempts to explain the situation would probably fall on deaf ears, so I decided not to act rashly.<br />
<br />
"It's true that one should experience every type of situation while one's still young, like dating two girls at once or a triangular relationship, anything goes! If you don't play your cards properly, you could even get into a 6-way relationship..."<br />
<br />
And this was how I spent the next five minutes.<br />
<br />
After Kamishiro-sensei finally snapped out of her own world, she uncrossed and crossed her legs again before continuing our conversation.<br />
<br />
"Hmm, I don't have anything else to say to you, you can go now...Ah, wait a moment, I remembered something. Yuu-chan, do you know where my cellphone is? I lost it after I went to borrow some music scores during lunch break."<br />
<br />
"How would I know the location of your cellphone..."<br />
<br />
"Really? Actually, I was thinking that you had hidden it! Good boys also have times when they want to play bad, it's the special psychology of teenage boys..."<br />
<br />
"I categorically deny that."<br />
<br />
"If you say it so seriously, onee-san will be sad you know..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
I retorted softly.<br />
<br />
"Ah, such a cruel retort, but I'm not bluffing...I really forgot where I put it, it's really strange. Oh well, I'll just continue looking for it, I'll think of something else if I really can't find it."<br />
<br />
"You really do know how to act blur..."<br />
<br />
Though I'm hardly one to say that, but,<br />
<br />
"Really? Hmm! Haruka and you...To be honest, the two of you are a surprising couple."<br />
<br />
"No, we're not dating..."<br />
<br />
I retorted immediately, she really had misunderstood our relationship.<br />
<br />
"It's alright, there's no point hiding it, onee-chan knows everything already."<br />
<br />
[[Image:NHnH vol01 060.jpg|thumb]]<br />
<br />
"It's not a question of hiding it or not...she's the 'Nuit Étoile'! I'm not good enough for her, so this is all just a misunderstanding."<br />
<br />
However.<br />
<br />
"An inter-caste love relationship! So touching..."<br />
<br />
God, this person isn't absorbing anything I'm telling her.<br />
<br />
"...You haven't changed one bit, Yukari."<br />
<br />
As expected of my sister's friend, for people who aren't dense enough will never be able to make friends with my sister...But why am I surrounded by such dense people! Nobunaga, the three idiots, Yukari, and my sister. Is this what they call 'birds of a feather flock together'? I really don't want to go down that line of thought.<br />
<br />
"Hey, please call me Kamishiro-sensei when in school."<br />
<br />
In that moment, I remembered that I had the habit of calling other people by their given names.<br />
<br />
"I'm alright with anything, Sen---sei."<br />
<br />
Under the influence of the pleading brown-colored eyes of Kamishiro-sensei, I lost the power to retort. Oh well, since this incident's over, I can go back to the classroom. But just as I prepared to walk back to my classroom, Yukari suddenly put on an expression that middle-aged obasan's have when they're preparing to sexually harass their female colleagues and happily told me,<br />
<br />
"Saito-sensei's out on official business today, and the bed in the infirmary is empty! Work hard! Young man!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I just walked out of the teacher's office when I saw Nogizaka-san standing there.<br />
<br />
She stood there quietly, like the only lily in a garden full of tulips, though a little conservative, but still different from the rest.<br />
<br />
"Ah..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san fiddled with her white hairband when she saw me as she stepped forward, looking as though she had something to say.<br />
<br />
She stood there for a while before finally making up her mind,<br />
<br />
"Umm...Ayase-kun..."<br />
<br />
Her pink lips parted to say something, but...<br />
<br />
"Ah! Isn't that the 'Nuit Étoile'?"<br />
<br />
A voice rudely interrupted her.<br />
<br />
"Where?"<br />
<br />
"Look! There!"<br />
<br />
On the other end of the corridor, there were a few guys who were pointing in our direction and talking among themselves.<br />
<br />
"It's true, and some guy is trying to flirt with her."<br />
<br />
"What!? A guy?"<br />
<br />
One of the guys gave a murderous shout.<br />
<br />
To be honest, after so much had happened, I had almost forgotten that Nogizaka-san was a famous person in school. A famous person like her talking face to face with a serious-looking guy (me) outside the teacher's office was extremely noticeable. <br />
<br />
"What!? The 'Nuit Étoile'?"<br />
<br />
"And a guy?"<br />
<br />
"What's the matter? Just what is happening?'<br />
<br />
Other than the loud voices of the group of guys, even the other students who were passing by had stopped and were looking at us curiously, some even moving closer to get a better look. In a few moments, the two of us had been completely surrounded by people.<br />
<br />
Hmm...<br />
<br />
The popularity of the 'Nuit Étoile' was extremely scary, so much so that we couldn't even hold a conversation in peace in public. <br />
<br />
For the first time in my life, I realized that personal privacy was actually so worthless and meaningless. Though it's not my place to give out such lamentations,<br />
<br />
Because 120% of those guys' interest was on Nogizaka-san and not on me. <br />
<br />
Just as I was thinking about that, more and more people started to arrive. I looked around me...about twenty or even thirty people had already gathered, just where did all these people come from?<br />
<br />
Anyway, it would be suicide to continue staying here. Under the watchful eyes of so many people, we won't be able to speak to each other properly.<br />
<br />
Since it has come down to this, there was only one way of resolving this.<br />
<br />
"Nogizaka-san, let's go."<br />
<br />
"Ah?"<br />
<br />
I pulled Nogizaka-san, who had a dazed expression on her face like a duckling who has just been born, away from the scene. It's so strange! Why am I always running whenever I'm together with Nogizaka-san?<br />
<br />
"Hey, that fellow actually dared to flirtatiously drag the 'Nuit Étoile' by her hand!"<br />
<br />
"What!? By her hand?"<br />
<br />
Just as we ran through the layers of human walls around us to escape, angry shouts sounded from the surrounding crowd.<br />
<br />
"Damn! Don't run away!"<br />
<br />
"Unforgivable..."<br />
<br />
"Damn it, I've remembered his face! The next time I see him, I'll tie him up and hang him upside down from the roof!"<br />
<br />
My god, those are such extreme words, I even started to hallucinate, as I thought I saw a group of people putting on red headbands that read 'Protect Haruka-sama~ The Nuit Étoile Protection Force~'.<br />
<br />
......Those should be the hallucinations generated by my own mind.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Once again, we came to the rooftop.<br />
<br />
The only difference was that this time, Nogizaka-san wasn't the one crying, though I felt like I was going to. Looks like the legendary secret fan club really exists, I should get Nobunaga to dig up some information on them. I do not want to be the public enemy number one of these people, for if I don't take the appropriate actions, I might really be hung upside down from the rooftop.<br />
<br />
As I thought about the fanclub members, all of whom had looked at me murderously, I felt extremely depressed. <br />
<br />
I finally understood the extent of Nogizaka-san's popularity. It was rumored that Nogizaka-san's fan club membership was a three digit value, and it looked to be true. In the context of our school population, a three digit value would be equal to roughly a quarter of the entire school population. In other words (including girls), of every four students in our school, one is a supporter of Nogizaka-san. That's a bit too terrifying isn't it?<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san was panting loudly beside me due to fatigue, which wasn't a surprise, given the long distance that we ran to get here.<br />
<br />
After Nogizaka-san's breathing had become more even, I opened my mouth to speak.<br />
<br />
"Did......Did you have something to say to me?"<br />
<br />
Actually I could already guess what Nogizaka-san would want to say.<br />
<br />
"Yes I do, about this morning's incident......"<br />
<br />
After she stopped panting, Nogizaka-san finally lifted up her head.<br />
<br />
As I expected! That would be the only reason why Nogizaka-san would come looking for me.<br />
<br />
Even though it's a bit sad to say that, but......<br />
<br />
"Ah, I'm really sorry for lunging at you so suddenly in the morning."<br />
<br />
As I said that, Nogizaka-san became a little nervous.<br />
<br />
"Eh? That......That was very nice......No! It wasn't nice, but......"<br />
<br />
So was it nice or was it not nice?<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san suddenly lowered her head like a dove, her slightly messy hair moving along with the movement of her head. At this point in time, the soft and silky fragrance of her hair was blown over.<br />
<br />
"I'm really grateful to you. That time.....You were helping me, weren't you?"<br />
<br />
"It's nothing!"<br />
<br />
You could say that I was helping her, or you could say that I just couldn't leave her like that, because I know Nogizaka-san's secret!<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san giggled.<br />
<br />
"Ayase-kun, you're a really nice guy."<br />
<br />
"Nice guy..."<br />
<br />
Normally, by saying that the guy is a nice guy, the girl usually means 'you're a hopeless nice guy', so it wasn't anything to be happy about. But since it came from Nogizaka-san, she probably doesn't mean it that way!<br />
<br />
"Anyway, I want to thank you for helping me. I'm grateful for you helping me keep the fact that I borrowed the 「INNOCENT SMILE」 a secret...And I'm really sorry......Because of me, you got called to the teacher's office."<br />
<br />
She bowed her head in apology again.<br />
<br />
"It's nothing, don't think too much about it. It was Kamishiro-sensei who called me to the office, so it's nothing!"<br />
<br />
"But..."<br />
<br />
"It's alright, I wasn't scolded or anything!"<br />
<br />
Finally convinced after my repeated explanations, Nogizaka-san finally raised her head again.<br />
<br />
"Ayase-kun, thank you for all your help."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san gave me a shy smile. Hmm......If she continues in this vein, I'll start to feel embarrassed too.<br />
<br />
Which was why I decided to change the topic.<br />
<br />
"Oh right, I gotta return this to you."<br />
<br />
After checking to make sure that no one was around, I took out 「INNOCENT SMILE」 and the music score.<br />
<br />
"Ah, Ayase-kun, you even took away the music score."<br />
<br />
"I used too much force when I was trying to hide 「INNOCENT SMILE」! This piece of music looks really difficult, are you able to play it?"<br />
<br />
I asked Nogizaka-san who was for an instant slightly embarrassed. <br />
<br />
"Yes... it's the piece I'm currently practicing, so I'm almost able to play the entire piece." <br />
<br />
I nodded. So she can play it after all. As the name of the piece, 「The Waltz of Mephisto」 suggests, this wasn't a piece that normal people would be able to play, but she could.<br />
<br />
Just as I was filled with awe at her piano prowess, Nogizaka-san suddenly thought of something, and abruptly looked up at me...<br />
<br />
"So......could it be that you looked inside?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's voice carried a tinge of uneasiness, as though saying that I saw something.<br />
<br />
"I......Didn't I drew a lot of drawings in it?"<br />
<br />
She looked up at me.<br />
<br />
"Ah......That's right......"<br />
<br />
That man-eating bear who looked like it just killed two of three people! Because the visual impact was too jarring, I remembered that drawing in exquisite detail, the drawing which would bring at least three days of nightmares to anyone who looks at it.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry, but I saw it...or rather, it ran into my line of sight, I merely glanced at it."<br />
<br />
"S..so, you saw it?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san lowered her head. Hmm...that really was something that I shouldn't have seen, it was forbidden fruit! Just as I was frantically trying to think of a way to get over this awkward atmosphere, Nogizaka-san surprised me with her next sentence.<br />
<br />
"What do you think of it?"<br />
<br />
"Huh?"<br />
<br />
What do you mean?<br />
<br />
"That is......it's quite nice isn't it? It's the first time anyone has seen my drawings"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's eyes sparkled when she said that, her expression showing the confidence she had in her drawing skills. Don't tell me......that she's asking for my opinion? I never thought that things would turn out like this.<br />
<br />
'The main source of nourishment of that bear seems to be humans'...That doesn't sound like a compliment. 'The bear's eyes make it look like it's sniffing drugs'...that's definitely not a compliment. 'If we were to put that bear into a hot pot, it'll probably be very delicious'...I really didn't how I should phrase my answer.<br />
<br />
After mulling it over...<br />
<br />
"The bear's gaze is extremely evil...no, or rather, it's very piercing. Everyone's perspective is different, so I suppose some people would find it very cute..."<br />
<br />
In the end, my polite and invincible compliment was shattered by Nogizaka-san's response.<br />
<br />
"...Hmm? Bear? But that's a cat!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san tilted her head as though asking, just what are you talking about.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"...Ah, you're absolutely right, it's a cat."<br />
<br />
A cat?<br />
<br />
I honestly didn't knew that it was a cat. Because a normal cat wouldn't have fangs would it?<br />
<br />
"Umm...Uh...It's really creative to let the cat hold a conductor's baton!!"<br />
<br />
"...It's supposed to be a cat toy!"<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"Ah, that's right, it's a cat toy."<br />
<br />
The book is a music score, and adding those two things sure add a new perspective.<br />
<br />
Luckily, Nogizaka-san didn't seem to have heard my soundless murmurings.<br />
<br />
"It's embarrassing to say it myself, but I'm rather confident about that piece of art!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san continued.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
Is she serious?<br />
<br />
I stared at Nogizaka-san.<br />
<br />
The look in her eyes was extremely serious.<br />
<br />
There was no look in the world that could be more serious than that.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
Well, no point picking out her faults, no one's perfect after all!<br />
<br />
"...Hmm, that's a really creative and outstanding piece of work, I like it! I think I see a hint of Picasso's 「Guernica」 in it."<br />
<br />
I expressed my own opinions very tactfully, but this was already the best I could say.<br />
<br />
"Really? I'm so happy!"<br />
<br />
Looking at the joy expressed on Nogizaka-san's innocent face, I felt a sense of guilt weighing down on me. At least I wasn't lying.<br />
<br />
"I'm really really happy! I'm glad I asked for your opinion!"<br />
<br />
"Righ......Right......"<br />
<br />
I'm glad she didn't ask somebody other than me.<br />
<br />
"Well......then please take good care of me in the future!"<br />
<br />
"?"<br />
<br />
What?<br />
<br />
"I think I'll improve faster if I show it to other people. I've always been practicing alone, but its hard to improve like this...Of course, only if you have the time..." <br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
Was she planning to show me these satanic drawings that bring down nightmares and summon demons on a regular basis?<br />
<br />
"What......What do you think?"<br />
<br />
"...About this......"<br />
<br />
"You don't want to?"<br />
<br />
I didn't give an immediate answer and Nogizaka-san's expression immediately turned to one reminiscent of a puppy that had been abandoned by the roadside. That expression is a banned technique, for no one can reject the 'Nuit Étoile' or let the 'Nuit Étoile' put on such an expression. Furthermore, that Nogizaka-san would implore me like this is because I'm the only one who knows about this hobby of hers......I didn't have a choice, for I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place, and I really think that I've boarded the Titanic.<br />
<br />
"If you don't mind, I'm willing to discuss it with you anytime."<br />
<br />
I deliberately pitched my voice higher so as to impress upon my sincerity.<br />
<br />
"Really!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san gave a blissful smile. God, I think I'll lose a hundred days of my life everytime I see this smile in the future...oh well, no point thinking about that now.<br />
<br />
After that, for a long period of time (at least 30 minutes), I was listening to Nogizaka-san talk about her passion for drawing.<br />
<br />
"I have to go now, thank you very much for today. After I finish some new drawings, I'll show them to you again. I'll be going first."<br />
<br />
Because of her piano lesson, Nogizaka-san left first. She was in extremely high spirits, humming the tune of 「Für Elise」 as she walked.<br />
<br />
Looking at her receding figure, I couldn't help but mutter to myself.<br />
<br />
"...Have I acted too rashly...?"<br />
<br />
==4==<br />
That night, I was studying in my room when an exaggeratedly loud voice came from downstairs.<br />
<br />
"Hey! Yuuto! You've got a call!"<br />
<br />
I was slightly miffed at being interrupted just as I was getting into the rhythm of my English-Japanese translation homework, but my sister was in a worse mood, ready to explode at any moment.<br />
<br />
"I said, you've got a call!!!"<br />
<br />
She kicked the door to my room open!! She even took down one of the door hinges along with her kick!! And then she stomped into my room. <br />
<br />
The tall person who entered my room.<br />
<br />
"Ruko..."<br />
<br />
My sister (A karate second-dan holder, but often abuses her martial arts skills. In the Ayase household where my parents are rarely at home, she has the highest authority) appeared to be extremely unhappy, like an Asian black bear woken up from its slumber during winter time.<br />
<br />
She only wore a white shirt on top of her underwear, such a disgraceful appearance.<br />
<br />
"How could she wake me up from my sweet slumber! I don't know who she is, but you better teach her a lesson and tell her not to call in the middle of the night!"<br />
<br />
Middle of the night? It's only ten! Though it wasn't early, but it wasn't that late either. And what did she mean by 'teach her a lesson'? Shouldn't she say lecture or something!<br />
<br />
I knew that retorting was useless, but I still gave it a try.<br />
<br />
"Whatever makes you happy, since both mean 'input' in one way or another."<br />
<br />
Those two phrases are completely different! They have totally different meanings!<br />
<br />
But to Ruko, who was even lazier and more perfunctory than me, those two phrases really weren't that different. She gave an irritated expression as she glared at me.<br />
<br />
"...You're really annoying! Just answer the phone will you! I'm so sleepy.......I'm going to sleep now, so you better remember to unplug the phone after you finish your conversation! <!-- to disambiguate from the current conversation he is having with Ruko -->"<br />
<br />
Ruko threw the phone over to me before going through the door that was swinging on only one of its hinges.<br />
<br />
For the love of God! Who'd have believed that she's actually the secretary for the CEO of a top-class firm, which goes to show that anything can happen in this society of ours. It was indeed the state of affairs that beautiful women would always have their way. Though my sister is pretty, I don't really want to comment on her character. For a society that is perpetually harping on equality, we're extremely unfair. <br />
<br />
I thought of all this as I answered the phone.<br />
<br />
"Hello?"<br />
<br />
And then...<br />
<br />
"Ah, hello? Is this Ayase-kun? It's Nogizaka."<br />
<br />
A surprising voice came from the other end of the line, the female voice that had the power to calm anyone who hears it, one that I've been hearing quite a lot of recently. But right now, this voice sounded extremely serious, nothing like the cheerful one I had heard in the day. Something must have happened. <br />
<br />
"I'm really sorry to disturb you at such a late hour. Umm...I would like to ask for a favor from you, Ayase-kun..."<br />
<br />
A favor? My heart beat really fast at that word.<br />
<br />
"...I'm really embarrassed to say this right now. But I know I'll regret it for life if I don't say it now."<br />
<br />
The seriousness in that voice was mixed with a heavy dose of embarrassment. Could it be that? No, Nogizaka-san would never ask me to do something as absurd as imitating the way crickets walk upside-down.<br />
<br />
"Erm......Are you listening?"<br />
<br />
"Ah, of, of course I'm listening."<br />
<br />
I had no reason not to be listening.<br />
<br />
"That's great...Ayase-kun, could you come out and meet me now?"<br />
<br />
"Huh..."<br />
<br />
After a second of lightning-quick analysis......<br />
<br />
"Meet up...just the two of us?'<br />
<br />
"That's right."<br />
<br />
To meet up at this time......She can't be planning to have a secret date with me can she? The two of us sitting on a bench in the park. Time has stopped, and then the two of us......No, I can't continue fantasizing! I'll start to think about contents similar to the plot in a third-grade novel if I continue fantasizing. <br />
<br />
I shook my heard violently. Got to stay calm, got to stay calm, I have to keep my cool.<br />
<br />
To return my heartbeat to normal, healthy levels, I mentally recited the multiplication table. At this time, Nogizaka-san continued,<br />
<br />
"Actually...I would like you to accompany me to school."<br />
<br />
"School?"<br />
<br />
The school in question...would obviously be the Hakujo Academy that we both attend. Why would she pick such a time to go to school when there wasn't a late night dare challenge of any kind going on......<br />
<br />
"......The magazine...I forgot to return it."<br />
<br />
The soft and hesitant voice cut off my line of thought.<br />
<br />
"I had planned to return it after meeting Ayase-kun, but as I was feeling extremely happy after our conversation, I felt that I could return it a bit later......and I forgot to return in the end."<br />
<br />
"You're talking about......that magazine?"<br />
<br />
「INNOCENT SMILE」<br />
<br />
"......Yes."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
The situation......was really serious. The basic rules of our school were rather loose, but our school was extremely strict regarding the usage of school facilities. If a book that was borrowed from the library wasn't returned by the due date, the school would publicly remind the student through the PA system.<br />
<br />
Of course, the public reminder would also include the student's name, year, and the name of the borrowed book.<br />
<br />
"If I'm mentioned, I'll...sob..."<br />
<br />
Probably thinking about what would happen if the book that she borrowed was publicly announced to the entire school, Nogizaka-san was whimpering slightly.<br />
<br />
"Th, that's why I thought I'd go return it instead. *sniff* Bu, but going alone to school when it's this late...it's scary. So, I thought I'd ask somebody to go with me...B, but..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san said in a tearful voice.<br />
<br />
So that's how it is. About this, I was the only one whom she could turn to for help. Because if she was to look for someone else, she'd have to show them 「INNOCENT SMILE」, bringing her hobby to the knowledge of one more person.<br />
<br />
"Sob......Is it too much to ask? I'm really sorry to always bother you like this, but..."<br />
<br />
It wasn't her fault. And......only a demented man would abandon a crying Nogizaka-san, right?<br />
<br />
Therefore.<br />
<br />
"Hmm...Let's just meet up at school now, alright?"<br />
<br />
"Sob...Ah...?"<br />
<br />
A surprised exclamation came from the other side of the line.<br />
<br />
"You're willing......to go with me?"<br />
<br />
"Yup, since I've got nothing to do right now anyway."<br />
<br />
It was decided. Though I haven't finished my English homework, that's not important at a moment like this! I would like to avoid both Nogizaka-san's tears and the scolding given by my English teacher (forty-two years old, characteristic: Extremely annoying), but I don't have the time to deliberate any further on this.<br />
<br />
"Thank you......sob......Thank you so much"<br />
<br />
And that was how I decided to sneak into school at such an unearthly hour.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The campus was extremely creepy at night.<br />
<br />
The thirty-something year-old white cement campus looked as thought it was floating in the sky in the dark, and from an angle, it really looked like an abandoned mansion, giving any observers a severe case of the goosebumps. This atmosphere was like the one in the supernatural shows on television where the spiritually-inclined guest appears and declares to the audience that 'an extremely evil aura can be felt here', whereupon the audience painfully wrestles with their inner-selves whether to continue watching or not. Nogizaka-san, who was standing next to me, was looking at the campus with exactly the same expression on her face, looking as though she was about to burst into tears any moment.<br />
<br />
Now, how should we go about infiltrating the campus?<br />
<br />
Of course the main gate wouldn't be open at this time, so perhaps we should try going by the staff entrance. Since it's the staff entrance, it should be near the teachers' office. But we'd have to be extremely careful if we were to go in by the staff entrance so as to avoid getting caught by a patrolling teacher. Or should we break a window and reach in to take the key, use a power tool to break the lock of the main gate, or just smash our way through the gate with a metal pole. Just that...all the above-mentioned methods were illegal. <br />
<br />
Isn't there any way that's quieter? (Even though no matter how quiet an act of infiltration is, it's still an illegal act) Just as I was trying to come up with a better idea...<br />
<br />
"Ayase-kun, this way."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san pulled on my arm.<br />
<br />
"We can get in by the back gate."<br />
<br />
"Back gate......why?"<br />
<br />
"Because I have a backup key."<br />
<br />
"A backup key?"<br />
<br />
Why would she have something like that?<br />
<br />
"The key was in my father's study, so I just borrowed it for a while, because I thought it might come in handy!"<br />
<br />
So it was from her father's study...I seem to have understood something, but why would her father have a backup key of the school?<br />
<br />
"I'm not very sure about the specifics...but it seems like my father donated a large amount of money to the school, and to prepare for emergencies, he asked for a backup of all the keys in the school."<br />
<br />
Investment...Right, I've heard this before. Ever since Nogizaka-san came to study at this school, ninety percent of all the money donated to Hakujo Academy came from the Nogizaka family. So it probably wouldn't be surprising if Nogizaka-san had a backup copy of all the keys in the school......right?<br />
<br />
"What's wrong?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing......"<br />
<br />
Now's not the time to voice my questions, but since she had the backup copies to all the keys in the school, she'd surely have the key to the main gate. Wouldn't it be much better to just go in by the main gate? But I didn't say that out loud.<br />
<br />
"Let's go!"<br />
<br />
"Yes!'<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Because the library was on the second story, we walked in the direction of the stairs.<br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, the interior of the school was also empty, and as silent as a cemetery.<br />
<br />
"It's really creepy..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san said as she looked around the deserted corridor. She gripped the sleeve of my shirt tightly, not daring to let go for even a second.<br />
<br />
"If this was a game, a zombie should be jumping out from this corner."<br />
<br />
"Ah!!!"<br />
<br />
I had played this game where you had to fight off hordes of zombies, giant spiders and other monstrosities while attempting to escape from a western-style building. For the first ten minutes of the game, you would probably feel like you're about to be devoured by two of three zombies, but...<br />
<br />
Never mind, forget I said it, now's not the time to think about something like that.<br />
<br />
"Ayase-kun, do you know about the seven mysteries of our school?"<br />
<br />
As we neared the stairwell, Nogizaka-san suddenly mentioned that. The seven mysteries of the school, though I'm not exactly sure as to the actual number of the mysteries, but there should be quite a few of them. Like...<br />
<br />
There's the 'Thirteen steps of death to the rooftop'.<br />
<br />
As for the others, I only know of the 'Dancing human figure in the science classroom', 'The self-playing piano in the music room', 'The self-bouncing ball in the empty gym'.<br />
<br />
"There's still 'Hanako-san, who lives in the toilet' 'The big mirror in the infirmary that reflects the death of the user', and...'the dead book-reader'."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san filled in the gaps.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
An extremely bad premonition filled the air after hearing such rumors.<br />
<br />
This was my first time hearing about 'The dead book-reader'. Since it has to do with a book-reader, it should be connected to the library right? And we just had to be going to the library at this time.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
Should we just head back?<br />
<br />
"Don't...Don't leave me behind!"<br />
<br />
[[Image:NHnH vol01 084.jpg|thumb]]<br />
<br />
My arm was held in a vice-like grip by Nogizaka-san, who had tears rolling about in her eyes. Looks like I wouldn't be able to perform the 'great escape'.<br />
<br />
During the time when I was struggling with myself about whether to run away or not, we reached the library in question. The wooden door that looked so normal in the day now looked like the gates to hell.<br />
<br />
It was a really bad feeling.<br />
<br />
"So...What's the story behind 'The dead book-reader'?"<br />
<br />
I asked Nogizaka-san.<br />
<br />
"A long long time ago, when the campus was still made of wood, there was a student who really liked to read. Because he was crazy about reading, so this student would go to the library every day, until one day, where he passed away after getting into an accident on his way to the library. But it's rumored that for the sake of reading, this student would still report to the library everyday, which is why in the dark and silent library, footsteps and the sound of a book dropping onto the ground can be heard, and the shadow of a reading figure can also be seen at the window."<br />
<br />
"You really know a lot about that."<br />
<br />
"We're going off track here, but I heard that someone really came down to the library in the middle of the night, and that book-reader really did appear in front of that person."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"I only heard this story the day before yesterday. So now......I kind of regret hearing it..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san lowered her head. Even if she regrets hearing that story, it was already too late...<br />
<br />
"...It'll probably be even worse if this story was told to someone who's never heard of it before."<br />
<br />
"You're right......It would be worse."<br />
<br />
"I've never heard this story before."<br />
<br />
"Huh...you..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san placed a finger at the edge of her mouth as she lapsed into deep thought.<br />
<br />
"...So you're saying that...You just heard the story for the first time from me?"<br />
<br />
"That's right."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
The surroundings were deathly silent. <br />
<br />
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said all that."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san apologized with a horrified expression on her face, just like a puppy who did something wrong and was getting scolded by its master. I believe that no one would be able to grumble even a word more after seeing her like this.<br />
<br />
"Ah, it's alright, since you didn't do it on purpose."<br />
<br />
And I was the one who was asked for the details in the first place.<br />
<br />
"But, if you meet the dead book-reader and get murdered by him because of my words..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's face was terribly pale as she fervently prayed that I would not become the victim of a supernatural murder!<br />
<br />
"It'll be alright! The dead book-reader won't run out just because of your story! And my only redeeming feature is that I'm really tough, so I'd probably be able to survive a supernatural attack without much effort."<br />
<br />
Because I have been forced to accept Ruko's rigorous training since I was young.<br />
<br />
"But...the attack of a spirit...isn't a physical attack, but a mental one, like curses..."<br />
<br />
"That's alright too."<br />
<br />
Regarding mental attacks, besides Ruko's training, I've also been on the receiving end of a lot of training from Yukari. So my defensive ability against mental attacks would probably be even higher than my defensive ability against physical attacks. I'm not proud of this inhuman defensive capabilities of mine, but it's the unfortunate truth.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san smiled as she squinted slightly, probably hinting that she accepts my answer?<br />
<br />
"......You're really kind."<br />
<br />
"No......I'm not that kind......"<br />
<br />
Why would she suddenly say something like this?"<br />
<br />
"Hehe!"<br />
<br />
"No...That's..."<br />
<br />
I wanted to deny it, but couldn't find the right words. To mask the fact that I was blushing, I turned my gaze to the direction of the library.<br />
<br />
"Cough, though I can't deny that this library's really creepy...we still have to go in don't we?"<br />
<br />
Once I said that, Nogizaka-san immediately nodded her head furiously with a serious expression on her face.<br />
<br />
"Let's...Let's go!"<br />
<br />
Even though Nogizaka-san was the one calling for us to go, she didn't move at all as she looked at me as if trying to send me some kind of telepathic message...she probably wants me to lead the way. Alright, let's do it!<br />
<br />
I pushed open the gigantic wooden door to the library, the wooden frame creaking under the force exerted by my hands before it opened. On the other side of the door was...an empty library. If this was a horror film, then at the exact moment where the door was opened, we would have gone face to face with 'the dead book-reader', a worst-case scenario that I wanted to avoid at all costs. The atmosphere in the empty room seemed to be extremely sinister, as though a ghoulish white face would appear from behind the black-painted shelves any moment.<br />
<br />
"You can't leave me. Please don't leave me alone, I'm begging you."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san grabbed my arm tightly as she whimpered, a flowery smell making its way to my nostrils. In fact, she needn't have been so worried, since she was grabbing me so tightly that I wasn't even able to move.<br />
<br />
"Ah, I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san hurriedly let go of me, my body finally regaining its freedom of movement. But for some reason, I suddenly felt a trace of regret.<br />
<br />
"Let's just maintain this position. Please don't leave me alone alright?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san looked up at me as she requested me to stay by her side while she held on to my arm. I nodded as we made our way towards the book-return counter.<br />
<br />
It was about fifty meters to the counter, and we carefully made our way over.<br />
<br />
During this short journey, Nogizaka-san's beautiful face almost touched mine a couple of time. Her alluring amber eyes, her exquisitely white skin, and her pink lips all made my heart beat faster after every close encounter...Is there a problem with the regularity of my heartbeat?<br />
<br />
"Kya!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san seemed to have tripped over something...it should be the reading chair again, right? She lost her balance, but fortunately, she broke her fall just before her face was about to come into contact with the floor. That was close!<br />
<br />
"Why is there a chair here..."<br />
<br />
How could you say that when the chair's always been here, and you've already tripped over it once before already?<br />
<br />
"I've embarrassed myself again, I'm so clumsy!"<br />
<br />
She smiled embarrassingly before continuing to walk, but promptly tripped over another chair, and fell flat on the floor this time.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
I was thinking, she can't be...<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's a little...no, extremely dense.<br />
<br />
"...I've been tripping over or running into things ever since I was young."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san answered the question in my mind.<br />
<br />
"I would be able to fall down even when walking on flat ground, and I've even walked into electrical poles and parked cars."<br />
<br />
"You're not good at sports?"<br />
<br />
But I had thought that she does quite well during physical education classes.<br />
<br />
"Hmm......I don't think this has got anything to do with physical ability."<br />
<br />
"...I think you're right."<br />
<br />
Was she really like this? I've never seen her trip over something or knock into something at school though.<br />
<br />
"I'm usually extremely careful...but maybe it's because Ayase-kun has already seen me trip over something that I probably subconsciously let my guard down, leading to me to trip over more things."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san smiled abashedly. Looks like she's been putting in a lot of effort to maintain her public image.<br />
<br />
"...Ah, what have I been saying! We should quickly return the book!"<br />
<br />
The red-faced Nogizaka-san suddenly remembered our mission and walked towards the book-returning counter, this time not tripping over anything. After reaching the counter, Nogizaka-san immediately turned on the computer, which powered up with a whir as the monitor displayed the operating system.<br />
<br />
"Hey, I suddenly thought of something."<br />
<br />
"Thought of what?"<br />
<br />
"Even if the book was returned now, won't the data be stored in the computer?"<br />
<br />
It's a computer specially designed to handle the borrowing and returning of library books. Which is why the date and time of all transactions would definitely be recorded in the computer. To be more precise, in the hard-disk of the computer. It'll definitely show that on the twenty-second day of April, at 23:08, book number 1203 (INNOCENT SMILE) was returned to the library.<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san froze for five seconds.<br />
<br />
"...I never thought of that."<br />
<br />
Hey, Hey!<br />
<br />
"Hmm...There's got to be a way. Let's think logically. Since no one in their right minds would return a book at this time, I would expect the librarian to assume that there's a problem with the data. People always look for a reason to explain such small and insignificant inconsistencies."<br />
<br />
Maybe she's right. But I would never have guessed that she had this careless side to her.<br />
<br />
"Please wait for a moment while I return the book."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san concentrated on the computer in front of her after saying that.<br />
<br />
I had nothing to do, so I couldn't help but look at Nogizaka-san, who had both eyes on the monitor.<br />
<br />
Sleek, black hair, snowy white skin, under the weak light of the moon and the reflection of the light from the screen, her body was bathed in a bluish white light, making her look as mysterious as the Goddess of healing magic in legends. She's the beautiful, clever, dignified and musically talented 'Nuit Étoile'. But the string of compliments didn't seem to fit the girl standing in front of me.<br />
<br />
Because my impression of Nogizaka-san isn't like this.<br />
<br />
Before this, I had thought of Nogizaka-san as a calm and collected lady. And I'm sure the rest of my classmates would see her in the same way.<br />
<br />
But right now, I finally understand why we can never judge a book by its cover.<br />
<br />
Which daughter of a wealthy and powerful family would illegally infiltrate her own school just to return an otaku magazine?<br />
<br />
And even crying while tripping over numerous things in front of another in the process, embarrassing herself by being extremely clumsy...<br />
<br />
But, compared to the normally perfect Nogizaka-san, I felt that the Nogizaka-san that I was seeing right now was more 'human'. A much better feeling. But I guess I should keep such thoughts to myself! Because Nogizaka-san probably won't be happy with that, even if I thought this side of her was better.<br />
<br />
"Nogizaka-san."<br />
<br />
"Yes?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san didn't turn her gaze as she continued to operate the computer.<br />
<br />
"Why did you start this hobby...I mean, how did you become an otaku?"<br />
<br />
I finally asked that question! God, what have I said! I had already promised Nogizaka-san not to speak of this anymore.<br />
<br />
"Hmm, how..."<br />
<br />
Surprisingly, Nogizaka-san didn't seem to mind it at all as she answered my question.<br />
<br />
"Actually, I'm not very sure myself, by the time I realized it, I was already an otaku. Just that...I'm quite sure that 'that' set off this whole hobby of mine."<br />
<br />
She place a finger on the edge of her mouth as she thought about what 'that' was.<br />
<br />
"This happened about six years ago. Because I quarreled with my parents over all the skills that I had to learn, I ran to a park near my house to cry. The reason for that quarrel should have been...I had promised some friends to go and play together, but it clashed with my Japanese dance class so I couldn't go. That was the first time anyone had invited me out to play, so I was extremely happy, but I had to reject their invitation because my parents had enrolled me in the Japanese dance classes...I was really upset, so I ran out to the park to cry my heart out. I ignored the stares of people passing by and just wailed. I think I probably wanted someone to come over and comfort me, but this world wasn't as caring as I had thought it was. More than a few people walked past me, but they all ignored me, since a crying kid is really annoying. But...there was one person, just one person came over to talk to me."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san had a faraway look in her eyes, as though she was looking at a distant place.<br />
<br />
"Although he was a bit rough about it, he tried his best to comfort me. I still remember what happened as though it was yesterday. At that time...He let me read the first edition of 「INNOCENT SMILE」."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san continued in a slightly exaggerated tone.<br />
<br />
"Before that, I had never read manga before, so it was a refreshing experience for me...In the flash of an eye, I was enraptured by the magazine. People who read manga would feel very happy, and I was probably deeply attracted to that kind of atmosphere...And in the end, I even asked that person to give that first edition to me."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san laughed.<br />
<br />
Wow! What a touching story! How did that guy even thought of using the 「INNOCENT SMILE」 to comfort a primary school girl! This guy was incredible.<br />
<br />
"That's probably the beginning of my hobby. After that incident, whenever I thought of that happy atmosphere, I would hide and read manga...which is why, even till this day, 「INNOCENT SMILE」 has a special place in my heart."<br />
<br />
So that's why she was willing to take the risk to return this book to the library. Even Nobunaga had said that old editions of 「INNOCENT SMILE」 were priceless books. I think I finally understand why Nobunaga would do anything to achieve his goals.<br />
<br />
"Phew...I'm finally done."<br />
<br />
I heard the sound of the ENTER key being depressed. Looks like our mission was complete.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san finally noticed my gaze. Just as she stretched in front of the computer screen, she suddenly stopped moving, like an electric toy dog that had run out of batteries.<br />
<br />
"What's wrong? Is there something on my face?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san's face was beet-red due to her embarrassment, a reaction that I would never see in the classroom.<br />
<br />
"No...I just think that you're a strange daughter of a wealthy and powerful family."<br />
<br />
I told her my honest opinion.<br />
<br />
"Hmm...I think it's really rude to say that to the person in question..."<br />
<br />
Though she said that, Nogizaka-san didn't look angry at all. On the contrary, I thought she looked rather happy.<br />
<br />
"In my opinion...Ayase-kun's much stranger than me. Yes, you're so strange that I can guarantee you'll win any All-Japan weirdo competition that there is."<br />
<br />
"Thank you for the compliment."<br />
<br />
What kind of competition is that!<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
"..."<br />
<br />
For a moment, all was quiet.<br />
<br />
"...Hahahaha!"<br />
<br />
"...Hahahaha!"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, both of us looked at each other and laughed. At the stroke of midnight, male and female laughter coming out of the empty library! If anyone hears that, there'll probably be a new version of the seven mysteries of the school. That'll be 'The terrifying maniacal laughter of a spirit couple in the library at midnight'.<br />
<br />
I don't long how long we stood there laughing.<br />
<br />
After our laughter had subsided, Nogizaka-san suddenly spoke rather seriously.<br />
<br />
"I had thought......that everything was over." She began to talk about such a thing abruptly.<br />
<br />
"Everything was over?"<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san nodded her head furiously.<br />
<br />
"At the time when Ayase-kun saw that I had borrowed 「INNOCENT SMILE」, and also saw me trip and fall...I thought that everyone would know that I have this kind of hobby, and then everyone will look at me with strange looks and make fun of me. I really thought that it was going to turn out like that."<br />
<br />
She's right. Although I didn't do it because I come into contact with such material on a regular basis through Nobunaga, there are many people in society who look down on people with such hobbies. If anyone knew that the 'Nuit Étoile' was an otaku, that person would probably announce it to the whole school without hesitation. <br />
<br />
Wait a minute, Nogizaka-san's tone seems to be suggesting that...<br />
<br />
"Nogizaka-san, did you think that I would go around telling everyone that you're an otaku?"<br />
<br />
Could it be that she thinks I'm that kind of person?<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san looked away embarrassedly.<br />
<br />
"I'm...I'm really sorry! Because I didn't know what kind of person you are! So I couldn't deny that there was a definite possibility of that happening. And I've almost never talked to guys before...So I was a little afraid...of you."<br />
<br />
"Never talked to..." <br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san? The 'Nuit Étoile'? Now I would have never known that!<br />
<br />
"For some reason, guys are always extremely stiff around me, unable to relax like they do around other girls. It seems that only Ayase-kun's able to talk to me normally."<br />
<br />
I think it's because Nogizaka-san's too cute and perfect. But...I don't have to be like the other guys!<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san continued,<br />
<br />
"Which is why I really thought that everything was over, so much so that I even thought about running away to a faraway place...But the truth has proven that I was wrong, because Ayase-kun kept his promise and didn't tell anyone about my hobby, and even after knowing about my hobby, you didn't make fun of me. You treated me like a normal person....and even helped me. If not for you, I really won't know what I would have done...I think I'm really despicable to doubt you in the first place, I really want to shout out how much of an idiot I am. I really......really want to thank you, Ayase-kun."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san stood in front of me as she gave a curtsy to me to express her gratitude.<br />
<br />
"Thank you......Thank you so much for everything you've done!"<br />
<br />
That posture was extremely similar to one I had seen in a certain magazine a few days ago, but now that Nogizaka-san was the one doing it, it was probably the cutest pose of the century...<br />
<br />
Just as I was about to lose all sense of reason...<br />
<br />
Shuffle, shuffle!<br />
<br />
"!?"<br />
<br />
A sound came from behind the shelves.<br />
<br />
"What...what was that......sound?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san grabbed me with lightning-quick reflexes. This kind of speed is the type that would only appear when one's caught in a fire...no, it should be an inhuman display of fleet-footedness, right? Whatever the reason as to Nogizaka-san's unnatural display of power, the point is, my arm came into contact with two soft orbs...<br />
<br />
"It...It seems to have come from the other side of the shelves, could it be the 'dead book-reader'...<br />
<br />
"Spirits don't exist in this world..."<br />
<br />
They don't exist...Or rather, I hope they don't exist.<br />
<br />
"What do we do?"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san looked up at me anxiously. There are three courses of action available to me right now. One, under the influence of my considerable curiosity, I go over to check it out. Two, remain calm and run away. Three, pretend to be frightened and take advantage of the situation to hug Nogizaka-san. Personally, I hope to choose number three, but...No, it's merely my personal fantasy, and I could get charged for sexual harassment.<br />
<br />
Logically, I should choose option two, since we've already done what we set out to do, there's no need to find out about anything that doesn't concern us.<br />
<br />
"Ah, Ayase-kun..."<br />
<br />
"I'll go and take a look, wait here for me."<br />
<br />
She hugged me tightly around my waist.<br />
<br />
"I'm going with you."<br />
<br />
"But, you may see something scary..."<br />
<br />
"I'll be even more afraid if I were to stay here by myself."<br />
<br />
She's right.<br />
<br />
"Then, let's go over together?"<br />
<br />
"Al...Alright..."<br />
<br />
The two of us started to walk towards the direction in which the strange sound had come from.<br />
<br />
"I think...that sound came from the shelve with the music scores."<br />
<br />
"Music scores?"<br />
<br />
We even have music scores in our library? I only thought that it was weird they had 「INNOCENT SMILE」, but it shouldn't be much of a surprise if they had music scores as well.<br />
<br />
"It's around here."<br />
<br />
Under the guidance of Nogizaka-san, just as we neared the corner of the shelf in question...<br />
<br />
Dangdangdang.......<br />
<br />
We heard a different sound from just now.<br />
<br />
Shuffle shuffle...<br />
<br />
And then we heard the sound of a book dropping onto the floor.<br />
<br />
"Kya..."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san grabbed my hand while covering her ears with surprising agility.<br />
<br />
"I think..."<br />
<br />
She looked up at me with tears in her eyes.<br />
<br />
"It must be the 'dead book-reader'...Ayase-kun! I think we should run!"<br />
<br />
"No, wait a moment..."<br />
<br />
The sound of books dropping onto the floor stopped, but another sound took its place. Dingdangdangdingdangdang...It sounded familiar. Ah...could it be 'that'!<br />
<br />
"Ah, Ayase-kun!"<br />
<br />
I went up to the shelf and saw my conjecture validated.<br />
<br />
"...It's a cellphone."<br />
<br />
There was a white object on the shelf with the music scores, the white object was vibrating as it knocked into the music scores on the shelf. Because it's a cellphone that's receiving a call.<br />
<br />
"...I seem to have seen this somewhere."<br />
<br />
There was a keychain on it with YUKARI spelled out in English. Ah! Didn't that person say that she lost her cellphone? It looked as though she left it here when she came to borrow music scores. She really knows how to create a stir! I decided to return it to her tomorrow as I turned off the power to cut off its annoying ringtone.<br />
<br />
"Nogizaka-san, it's alright, I've found the source of the sounds."<br />
<br />
I called out to the ashen-faced, shivering Nogizaka-san who was hiding behind the shelf. Probably because the strange sounds had disappeared, Nogizaka-san seemed to have relaxed a little as she slowly made her way towards me.<br />
<br />
"You know what was causing those sounds?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, this is the source of it all"<br />
<br />
I showed the white cellphone that had the opposite color to its owner's heart to Nogizaka-san, as she slumped down onto the ground as though her soul had just been sucked away.<br />
<br />
"Ah, I feel weak now that I've loosened up <!-- 'relaxed'? -->."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san seemed to have been scared witless. This was the first time I've seen someone who's been scared to that extent, and that person was the 'Nuit Étoile'...It was a scene straight from the world of slapstick comedy.<br />
<br />
"Hah..."<br />
<br />
I couldn't help but laugh. Seeing that I was laughing at her, Nogizaka-san puffed out her cheeks.<br />
<br />
"What...What are you laughing about! What's so funny? It's not like I did it on purpose, it's because...because it was too terrifying!"<br />
<br />
She was retaliating, but soon stopped.<br />
<br />
"You're......really a strange person."<br />
<br />
"Same to you to!"<br />
<br />
And then we looked at each other and started laughing again, laughing so loudly that even the people staying beside the school would probably be able to hear us.<br />
<br />
Maybe a new version of the seven mysteries of the school would be heard in school tomorrow?<br />
<br />
<br />
==5==<br />
We finally completed our mission.<br />
<br />
As we walked out of the school gate, Nogizaka-san bowed deeply to me.<br />
<br />
"Thank you so much for today, Ayase-kun, you saved my life. Maybe...Today's actions weren't legal, but I was very happy."<br />
<br />
It was fun. Yeah, that expression was pretty improper, but it wasn't without its merit. That's why I could respond with a large smile.<br />
<br />
"You're welcome, I enjoyed myself too."<br />
<br />
Those were my true feelings.<br />
<br />
"You...can just call me Haruka."<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san requested timidly.<br />
<br />
"I'm saying that, you can just call me by my name. It feels like I'm an outsider if you keep calling me Nogizaka-san. No, I am an outsider, ah, I don't mean it that way...sob, I'm really bad at this...anyway, I wish that you'll call me Haruka and not Nogizaka-san."<br />
<br />
She was serious about that.<br />
<br />
Hmm...I don't know why she would be so flustered, but since she was the one who requested me to call her by her name, I don't think there should be any problems. To be honest, I felt that it would be an honor to be able to call her by her name.<br />
<br />
"I got it, so I'll just call you...Haruka."<br />
<br />
"Yes!"<br />
<br />
Nogizaka-san nodded her head happily...No, I should refer to her as Haruka now. Right now, Haruka looked extremely cute.<br />
<br />
"Then you should also call me Yuuto, all my good friends call me that."<br />
<br />
For some reason, I suddenly felt embarrassed then and I purposely looked away from her.<br />
<br />
"Good friends..."<br />
<br />
Haruka mumbled before smiling again, an honest smile straight from the heart that I've never seen before in the classroom.<br />
<br />
"I got it, Yuuto, please take care of me from now on."<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And thus, the relationship between Nogizaka Haruka and I began.<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Back to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1_Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
| Return to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Nogizaka_Haruka_no_Himitsu:Volume1_Prologue&diff=312189Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1 Prologue2013-12-20T09:09:26Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Prologue */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Prologue===<br />
<br />
My classmate Nogizaka Haruka is completely flawless.<br />
<br />
It may seem a little, you know… to hear this stupid-sounding sentence as an opening, but this is indeed a fact. An undeniable fact.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka Haruka has beautiful soft hair that stretches down to her back, obvious double eyelid and clear eyes that are slightly hanging down at the sides. Adding on to that, she emits an astonishing aura, I believe any man that walks past her on the streets, a hundred out of a hundred of them would be charmed into turning back to look at her once more. Speaking of which, I am one of them. After all, she was crowned Miss Hakujō Academy when she was just a mere first-year student last year with an amazingly high number of votes, and ever since that beauty contest, everyone calls her “Nuit Étoile” (The Silver Star of the Night). The number of guys that confessed to her in that year, reached a three digit figure, a secret fan club was established specially for her, and there were sayings that even the principal is a member of that fan club, and it was likely that was more than just a rumor.<br />
<br />
Even with that, it is still not that special yet, because there is always someone that is like a school idol in any school. Taking a stroll across the entire country, you will be sure to find tens, hundreds of people like this.<br />
<br />
However, Nogizaka Haruka’s outstanding quality lies in that: her good qualities that deserve special mention, goes beyond her appearance that was mentioned above.<br />
<br />
Firstly, she has a very good character.<br />
<br />
Her personality is prudent and mature; she shows a smile to whomever she meets and treats others gently, giving off an atmosphere like lillies blossoming. Let's not talk about others first, she is a precious example to defy the logic that all beauties have an ugly personality.<br />
<br />
Besides that, she is very smart.<br />
<br />
One year ago, during the ability test that was conducted at the start of school, all her subjects were above ninety marks, taking first place for the entire grade and leaving a big gap between her and the second placing. Ever since her astonishing feat, she has maintained the first place up till now. Maybe it could be said that her brain structure is entirely different from normal people…… Compared to her, all our brain juices must be stuff that is like dried up dregs of beans.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, she is cultured.<br />
<br />
Japanese folk dance with flower arrangement, the art of tea with calligraphy. The skills that she has learnt since young must add up to at least ten and in each of the areas for these skills she is able to show an unparalleled talent, making it all the more shocking. Among which, her best would be piano, her piano skills have been commented to be of professional standard, receiving a single-sided praise in the music realm. Now she is performing before the eyes of the entire class, just watching her fingers dance elegantly on the piano keys would make one agree to those comments.<br />
<br />
Even more so, she is clever and deft, possessing a first-rate qualification for English, a qualification for a certain ancient martial art style that allows her to take lessons in place of the master, the title of being a daughter of a renown business family…… etc. All in all, she is someone that takes on the phrase “Heaven does not bestow more than a single gift” (A phrase that is to say one person possesses no more than a single gift or talent [translation may not be too accurate to get the direct phrasing]) head-on and obtain a total victory over it.<br />
<br />
However……<br />
<br />
Even Nogizaka Haruka, that is so close to perfection, has one single weakness or that is to say, a secret.<br />
<br />
But right now, the only person that knows this secret is me; and because of this, I have a closer relationship with her. In the end, I was half forced into stepping into a world I have never touched on before. Just that……<br />
<br />
Then, her performance ended while I was thinking.<br />
<br />
"What you've just heard was the third movement of Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor, Appassionata, performed by Nogizaka Haruka. Thank you, Haruka."<br />
<br />
Under the music teacher's, Yukari (twenty-three years old, currently looking for a boyfriend), direction, every one of us started to clap warmly, while Nogizaka Haruka gave a shy smile that could melt the audience.<br />
<br />
I felt bliss just by looking at her. She's just too cute to be true. It wasn't just the normal guys, even the class president, Morita, the one who kept a serious, no-nonsense face even when listening to jokes, was squinting with a slight sinful look in his eyes. As for the girls, they all gave her looks of respect and admiration that were devoid of any traces of jealousy. I guess the smile of an angel would be what Haruka has on her face right now.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, her eyes, with pupils as clear as the water from the Alps, locked onto mine. When she caught me looking, she smiled and waved at me discreetly. I could feel that at this moment her smile was more affectionate than usual, different from the smile that she gave to her other classmates.<br />
<br />
Mm, she's indeed a cute girl.<br />
<br />
I couldn't help but show a smile.<br />
<br />
Not too long ago, this kind of situation would have been like a red pig flying on a plane, something that would never have happened to us. The "not too long ago" in question, was the time before I knew of Nogizaka Haruka's secret, because before I found out about her secret, Nogizaka Haruka and I were just normal classmates--- And she was the school idol, while I was just an average student--- that never even had a single real conversation before.<br />
<br />
I thought about how we began.<br />
<br />
It was only three months ago, but looking back now, it feels as though it happened a very long time ago. Maybe it's because we've spent so much time together in the three months that we've known each other.<br />
<br />
That's right.<br />
<br />
Our relationship started from that incident in the school library during after school hours.<br />
<br />
That is, the incident that happened was the day I found out about Nogizaka Haruka's secret.<br />
<br />
From that day onwards, I waved goodbye to my plain school life to begin the subtle and exquisite relationship between Haruka and I.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
That is, Nogizaka Haruka's Secret!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Back to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1_Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
| Return to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Boku_to_Kanojo_ni_Furu_Yoru:Volume_1_Prologue&diff=308240Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue2013-12-05T21:46:28Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Prologue */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Incomplete|percentage=62}}<br />
<!--page005-Prologue--><br />
==Prologue==<br />
<br />
It was the memories of a distant day.<br />
<br />
That no longer was an event which had drove to oblivion. However, it was an event elaborated in the days gone by indeed.<br />
<br />
The boy, met the Makai Jutsushi.<br />
<br />
Stricken by despair, the boy was heartbroken. Before his despair stricken expression, there was a girl dressed in an all black outfit.<br />
<br />
"I am, a somewhat officious Makai Jutsushi!"<br />
<br />
With that mischief way of smiling, the face of the girl was very impressive. Considering it — that was probably the guy's love at first sight . At that time the girl's visage was burnt into the boy's mind with his eyes, never again to be forgotten.<br />
<br />
The girl swang her hand once, and from her fingertips light grew, then struck the fround.<br />
<br />
<!-- Page006 --><br />
It was solidified to the shape of flower.<br />
<br />
The girl spread her hands, myriad flower of light bloomed around the surrounding. The flowers emitted light brilliance like no other, it was seriously a fantastic scene of myriad petals whirled up in the wind.<br />
<br />
Was only by watching it, the boy forgot the sadness until now, and was fascinated by the mysterious power.<br />
<br />
"This is the power of Makaiju"<br />
<br />
The boy asked toward the little boastful girl. About how himself can activate that power. The girl who heard the words of the boy, was seemed taken aback a little.<br />
<br />
"Huh? Is it also possible to you? Yes.<br />
With hard work, I think that it can be done. Your talent is likely"<br />
<br />
That being the case the boy's answer was decided. By that power the boy was completely — no, had been a captive of the girl was the reason.<br />
<br />
"Hmm? Do you want me to teach Makaiju? Yes. Very well. Only while I am in this city however, I'll teach so if that is alright with you"<br />
<br />
The boy was delighted. A new power that came to hand, and from now on will be able to meet with a beautiful girl, both of it was the happiness.<br />
<br />
"Then...the first step of the class — first, from now on call Tea-{{Furigana|"Teacher"|Meister}} for my callings.<br />
<br />
<!-- Page007 --><br />
understood?"<br />
<br />
Meister. It means "Teacher" in German.<br />
With a little shy the boy called out {{Furigana|"Teacher"|Meister}}, the girl blushing more than the boy.<br />
<br />
"Ugh, it is embarrassing......but, alright, a good feelings it is"<br />
<br />
Looking at the shy and joyful girl, he thought something warm inside the chest of him seems bursting out.<br />
<br />
Thus the boy and the girl, it would become the continued secret meeting of the two.<br />
<br />
<br/><br/><br />
Currently, the boy was fighting.<br />
Desperately, struggle of one's life at stake was unfolded.<br />
<br />
However, that didn't mean unfolded in a bloody mortal combat. Because there was no appearance of the other party to fight. In other word, the boy was fighting, because he himself through the age of fifteen years had build an opponent called reason and common sense.<br />
<br />
Bang, the sound of explosion shook the surroundings. In front of the boy's look, passenger cars that were parked on the street exploded. Whether it ignited the fuel, the car was burnt and elevate the orange colored flame as it was.<br />
<br />
<!--page008--><br />
"Wha-what, is that, exactly?"<br />
<br />
Unbelievable, the mind of the boy was full of thought.<br />
<br />
The boy while escaped, few moments ago,<br />
was ruminating the sight he saw in the city — it was a strange duo. The whole body was hid covered in mantle and hood, two people in the strange appearance. The two them were fighting in the middle of the city.<br />
But it was not just a fight. The two danced in mid air, it is as if they had been doing as much of the destruction in the city while holding out the lightning and flames from the hand!<br />
<br />
Not a magic trick, it was a sight that does not seem nothing but supernatural no matter how one look at it. It was the strangest, in spite of the city there, there was completely no appearance of others. Even if the sun had sank, per hour became dark such as that, it was abnormal that there was no one in the middle of the city.<br />
<br />
Had feel the abnormality the boy meant to flee however, the mysterious person was aware of the presence of the escaping boy. The witness would not be forgiven in that kind circumstances, the boy only became the one that was pursued since then.<br />
<br />
He would had ran much longer. It was feels like being chased for many hours, actually at best would be less than ten minutes time. The approaching terror from behind had derailed the sense of time.<br />
<br />
And, this time the vending machine that was in the transverse explode. From within parts of the machine, debris of the exploded cans, and juice inside it scattered around.<br />
<br />
Even while screaming as to overlap the plosive sound, the boy did not loosen his leg to escape. Even if his legs<br />
<br />
<!--page009--><br />
didn't stop slightly, he would be killed at that moment — his survival instinct had told so.<br />
<br />
While running, he saw the back in an instant. Come chasing him, Dark red, the the tall phantom wrapped the whole body in congealed blood colored mantle. The face was not known because the head also same with the hood's color the phantom were wearing but, the height was easily over two meters. The phantom moved as if gliding, soundlessly came after the boy. Whiten that<!--その白く is the original word, I'm not sure what it means-->, each time the elongated arm was extended out from between the cloak, around the boy occurred a new explosion.<br />
<br />
The boy decided to fled to the alley with resolution. For the boy it was the only advantage, that was the place which can be called the home ground of his. The town which he had been lived for fifteen years from birth. There was not any road and street in this town that the boy never walked. Because even an intricate alley, was no different than a garden for the boy. It was a strategy utilizing the geographical advantage against the opponent.<br />
<br />
It was ridiculous the boy running trough between the alleyway. That area was a consequence of unplanned urban development, that was why the alley assembly like a maze. Once went astray, it was enough to make even locals struggles to get out. If it was run away there — the boy was so confident.<br />
<br />
Five minutes that he ran the alley — turned around, verified that there does not seem to be any sign of pursuers figure behind, the boy finally got an afford to fix his breath.<br />
<br />
Stand by leaning his back to the wall, the boy with the uniform sleeve wiped away the spout out sweat.<br />
<br />
<!--page010--><br />
<!--page011--><br />
<!--page012--><br />
<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
| Back to [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
| Return to [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to <!--[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]-->Chapter 1<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Rinkan_no_Madoushi:Volume1_Prelude&diff=306589Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1 Prelude2013-12-01T19:45:28Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div><!-- PG 10 --><br />
Now ––<br />
<br />
Here is a piece of parchment. <br />
<br />
The small characters written here have caught the blessing of time and are blurry, and there are more than a few distinctive difficult characters. <br />
<br />
A picture resembling childlike scribbles were in the middle of it. <br />
<br />
A ring was drawn in crooked brushwork.<br />
<br />
Since ancient times, it was easy for power to dwell in the ring shape. <br />
<br />
The bracelet is the symbol of power, the ring is the proof of the contract, the necklace is the sign of loyalty and the diadem forms the proof of authority.<br />
<br />
However, a “ring” was drawn here, there wasn’t anything like it.<br />
<br />
Since the drawing was rough, you couldn’t be certain about the properties of the material and since you couldn’t compare it to anything the size wasn’t clear, also since a person’s shape was omitted, it was uncertain whether or not it was an accessory.<br />
In the first place––that ring was something that didn’t even exist at the time it was drawn. <br />
<br />
It was the blueprint of a special Magic Tool that was left behind by a mage. <br />
<br />
<!-- PG 11 --><br />
In those days, many mages considered the materialisation of that thing to be impossible. In fact, even the mage that designed it eventually passed away without making it.<br />
<br />
If somebody could decipher the completely moth-eaten description, it’s possible that they would be able to understand the power that dwells in the ring.<br />
<br />
But, it was filled with contradictions in its various meanings. <br />
The name of the ring was “Solid Torus”. <br />
<br />
Since it wasn’t materialised, there were only a few people who knew the name. Even if it was someone who had a deep knowledge about the history of Magic Tools, their response wouldn’t differ; they would tilt their head to one side or give a wry smile. <br />
However.<br />
<br />
If the plan was realised––<br />
<br />
All the mages would be frightened and shocked. That is the kind of thing it is. <br />
<br />
The Ring of Reflux.<br />
<br />
For the makers of Magic Tools it was a pipe dream and at the same time, one of the unsolved challenges. <br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Back to [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
| Return to [[Rinkan no Madoushi|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Introduction|Introduction]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Boku_to_Kanojo_ni_Furu_Yoru&diff=306072Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru2013-11-29T11:09:34Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Warning:ATP}}<br />
[[File:BtKnFY V01_000.jpg|thumb|Volume 1 Cover]]<br />
<br />
'''''Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru''''' (ぼくと彼女に降る夜) is a light novel series written by Yachimata Ayumu (八街 歩) and illustrated by Misaki Kurehito (深崎暮人). This was published by Fujimishobo and has now ended with 9 volumes. <br />
<br />
<!--This series is also available in the following languages: <br />
<br />
Indonesian--><br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
Sugamu Naito is just your average schoolboy. However, his life was changed when he was dragged into a battle between magicians called Makai Jutsushi. Naito was saved by a Makai Juutsushi girl, Yoruyomiru. His meeting with her shook his lost memories. Now that he knows the existence of dark world, he was move by something that is inside of him, and took a step in a battle...<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
===[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Registration Page|Registration]]===<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first discuss it/to notify the staff in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=6052 forum], and to [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on (see the [[Format_guideline#Translators|Guideline]] page for usage rules).<br />
<br />
=== Format Standards ===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the General Format/Style Guideline and maintain the same terminology used. Editors are to check the standard if possible. Both translators and editors are required to participate actively in the forum in project standards.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
<!--*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Guidelines|Project Specific Guidelines and Terminology]]--><br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the teaser, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=6052 Feedback Thread]'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
*2013 Sep 14:Teaser Initiated<br />
<br />
==''Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru'' series by Yachimata Ayumu==<br />
===Volume 1 Night Successor - Those Who Succeed the Night===<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]] (62% Complete)<br />
<!--<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 Magic feast begin]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 八祖の禍家]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 Night before decisive battle]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 ”Master”]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
===Volume 2===<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Afterword|Afterword]]--><br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
*Project Administrator:<!--ask [[user:bicube|bicube]] for further information--><br />
*Project Supervisor:<!--ask [[user:bicube|bicube]] for further information--><br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
*[[user:mada|mada]] <br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
All editors that speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
*[[User:Nerokun|Nerokun]]<br />
*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
*ナイトサクセサ一～夜を継ぐ者 Night Successor - Those Who Succeed the Night, 25 March 2007/平成19年3月２５日, ISBN 978-4-8291-1910-5 c0193<br />
*25 February 2008/平成20年2月２５日, ISBN 978-4-8291-3264-7 c0193<br />
<br />
[[Category:Teasers]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Boku_to_Kanojo_ni_Furu_Yoru&diff=306071Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru2013-11-29T11:09:10Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Warning:ATP}}<br />
[[File:BtKnFY V01_000.jpg|thumb|Volume 1 Cover]]<br />
<br />
'''''Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru''''' (ぼくと彼女に降る夜) is a light novel series written by Yachimata Ayumu (八街 歩) and illustrated by Misaki Kurehito (深崎暮人). This was published by Fujimishobo and has now ended with 9 volumes. <br />
<br />
<!--This series is also available in the following languages: <br />
<br />
Indonesian--><br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
Sugamu Naito is just your average schoolboy. However, his life was changed when he was dragged into a battle between magicians called Makai Jutsushi. Naito was saved by a Makai Juutsushi girl, Yoruyomiru. His meeting with her shook his lost memories. Now that he knows the existence of dark world, he was move by something that is inside of him, and took a step in a battle...<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
===[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Registration Page|Registration]]===<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first discuss it/to notify the staff in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=6052 forum], and to [[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on (see the [[Format_guideline#Translators|Guideline]] page for usage rules).<br />
<br />
=== Format Standards ===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the General Format/Style Guideline and maintain the same terminology used. Editors are to check the standard if possible. Both translators and editors are required to participate actively in the forum in project standards.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
<!--*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Guidelines|Project Specific Guidelines and Terminology]]--><br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the teaser, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=6052 Feedback Thread]'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
*2013 Sep 14:Teaser Initiated<br />
<br />
==''Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru'' series by Yachimata Ayumu==<br />
===Volume 1 Night Successor - Those Who Succeed the Night===<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]] (62% Complete)<br />
<!--<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 Magic feast begin]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 八祖の禍家]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 Night before decisive battle]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 ”Master”]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
===Volume 2===<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 ]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
*[[Boku to Kanojo ni Furu Yoru:Volume 2 Afterword|Afterword]]--><br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
*Project Administrator:<!--ask [[user:bicube|bicube]] for further information--><br />
*Project Supervisor:<!--ask [[user:bicube|bicube]] for further information--><br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
*[[user:mada|mada]] <br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
All editors that speak English proficiently are welcomed.<br />
<br />
*[[User:Nerokun|Nerokun]]<br />
*[[User:shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
*ナイトサクセサ一～夜を継ぐ者 Night Successor - Those Who Succeed the Night, 25 March 2007/平成19年3月２５日, ISBN 978-4-8291-1910-5 c0193<br />
*25 February 2008/平成20年2月２５日, ISBN 978-4-8291-3264-7 c0193<br />
<br />
[[Category:Teasers]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Slayers&diff=305810Slayers2013-11-28T18:48:14Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>The ''Slayers'' series is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Slayers Tiếng Việt|Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)]]<br />
<br />
(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)<br />
----<br />
Slayers (スレイヤーズ) is a hosted project. All inquiries can be directed to the talk page.<br />
[[Image:Slayers.jpg|thumb|The Slayers]] <br />
<br />
Novels 1 through 8 have been licensed and published by Tokyopop and are therefore not a part of this project. The content of said novels is largely covered by the Slayers and Slayers Next TV anime series. If you have watched them, then you can start reading just fine.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
<br />
The world of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slayers Slayers] is one of medieval fantasy. Technology is primitive; magic is real. Demons, dragons, ghosts and other creatures of legend are not just names in old books. The forces of good, the ''shinzoku'', and those of evil, the ''mazoku'', clash while the fate of the universe hangs in the balance.<br />
<br />
...And in this world are the (self-proclaimed) genius beautiful sorceress Lina Inverse and her sidekick/bodyguard/punching bag Gourry Gabriev - the Slayers. Together with the numerous companions they meet on their travels, they battle evil mages and demonic lords of darkness, while still keeping a keen eye out for treasure and food on the way.<br />
<br />
Written by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanzaka_Hajime Kanzaka Hajime], illustrated by Araizumi Rui.<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
==='''[[Slayers:Registration_Page|Registration]]'''===<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Slayers:Registration_Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
<br />
January 20, 2009 - Slayers translation page created.<br />
<br />
January 21, 2009 - Volume 9, ''The Cursed Sword of Bezeld''<br />
<br />
June 20, 2012 - Volume 10, Second half of ''The Evil Devices in Solaria''; Volume 11, First half of ''Crimson Obsession''<br />
<br />
== ''Slayers'' series by Kanzaka Hajime ==<br />
All titles of yet untranslated novels are subject to change.<br />
<br />
=== The Cursed Sword of Bezeld ===<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Illustrations|Color Illustrations]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Chapter 1|Where Are You, Magic Sword?]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Chapter 2|The Shadow of Demons in Bezeld...]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Chapter 3|Magic Sword? Finders, Keepers!]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Chapter 4|The Slumbering Sword Awakens]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_09_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
HTML formatted version can be found [http://www.mediafire.com/spore here.] <br />
<br />
=== The Evil Devices in Solaria ===<br />
* Illustrations<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_10_Chapter 3|The Flowers of Battle Bloom in the Night of Solaria]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_10_Chapter 4|The Ambitions of the Dissolved Kingdom Finally Come to an End]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_10_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
HTML formatted version can be found [http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?fl1fg8h0a4z7qcm here.] <br />
<br />
=== Crimson Obsession ===<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_11_Chapter 1|A Rebellion?! The Troubled World]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_11_Chapter 2|Let’s Go! Our Destination is the Sorcerer’s Guild!]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_11_Chapter 3|A Fight To The Death Breaks Out in the Lake Town]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_11_Chapter 4|Crimson - When the Puppet Play Comes to an End]]<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_11_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
HTML formatted version can be found [http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?o587o96exbdao6e here.] <br />
<br />
=== The Scheme of Dynast's Army ===<br />
* Illustrations<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Epilogue<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== The Path to the Demon's Coming ===<br />
* Illustrations<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Epilogue<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Hatred in Sellentia ===<br />
* Illustrations<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Epilogue<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Demon Slayers! ===<br />
* Illustrations<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* [[Slayers:Volume_15_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
== Project Staff ==<br />
''' ACTIVE '''<br />
* Project Administrator: [[User:Pip25|Pip25]]<br />
<br />
''' INACTIVE '''<br />
* Project Administrator: [[User:Spore|Spore]]<br />
* Project Supervisor: [[User:Spore|Spore]]<br />
<br />
==='''[[Slayers:Registration_Page|Registration]]'''===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute in any way may contact [[User:Pip25|Pip25]].<br />
<br />
=== Translators ===<br />
<br />
''' ACTIVE '''<br />
<br />
:*[[User:Hlrespect|Hlrespect]]<br />
:*[[User:Pip25|Pip25]]<br />
<br />
''' INACTIVE '''<br />
<br />
:*[[User:Spore|Spore]]<br />
<br />
=== Editors ===<br />
<br />
''' ACTIVE '''<br />
<br />
:*[[User:Gruic|Gruic]]<br />
:*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
''We'd be very happy if we could find native English editors as well! :)''<br />
<br />
''' INACTIVE '''<br />
<br />
:*[[User:Spore|Spore]]<br />
<br />
=== Links ===<br />
<br />
Translation of remaining part of volume 10 and volumes 12-15 can be found [http://ceiphiedknightandbanditsplight.wordpress.com/novels/ here.] <br />
[[Category:Hosted_Projects]]<br />
[[Category:Genre - Action]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Shakugan_no_Shana&diff=305809Shakugan no Shana2013-11-28T18:45:39Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Template:STALLED}} <br />
[[Image:SnS cover.jpg|300px|thumb|title Image]]<br />
<br />
The ''Shakugan no Shana'' series is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Shakugan_no_Shana_~Versión_Española~|Español (Spanish)]]<br />
*[[Shakugan_no_Shana_(German)|Deutsch (German)]]<br />
*[[Shakugan_no_Shana_~Lithuanian~:Knyga1_Prologas|Lietuvių (Lithuanian)]] (Teaser)<br />
<br />
(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)<br />
<br />
'''This project has been reactivated and will be starting from Volume 05. Synopsis will be provided for previous volumes.'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Please look [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Talk:Shakugan_no_Shana here] regarding Volumes 3 and 4.'''<br />
<br />
<br />
Shakugan no Shana (灼眼のシャナ) project page.<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
<br />
High school student Yūji Sakai expects his very normal life to last forever. However, this expectation is quickly shattered one day while on his way home.<br />
<br />
The world suddenly freezes in time, leaving Yūji to watch in horror as blue flames engulf the people around him. Soon a monster resembling a large doll appears and begins sucking the flames into its mouth, until it notices Yūji. Surprised with Yūji's insusceptibility to the time-stop (Fūzetsu), it jumps with glee.<br />
<br />
Just as the monster prepares to consume Yūji, a sword-wielding girl in black attire with flaming red eyes and hair appears. She swiftly and confidently destroys the monster, before noticing Yūji moving freely. The girl calls herself a Flame Haze who hunts the Denizens of the Crimson Realm and the Rinnes they send to do their bidding. When Yūji notices a blue flame in his chest, the Flame Haze tells him that the "real" Yūji died some time ago, and that he is a Torch, a temporary replacement for erased humans. Torches take on the forms of those erased persons, but after a period of time, they will vanish from existence and the memories of the living. Unfazed by his apparent death, Yūji befriends the strange girl and names her "Shana" after her sword. The reason Yūji is able to move in the Fūzetsu is that he is not a normal Torch, but instead a special kind called a Mystes: he has a treasure inside him, known as a Hōgu, a device possessing special abilities of sorts, and an extremely powerful and valuable one at that. The Hōgu inside Yūji allows him to remain in existence rather than fading away like other torches. Shana resolves to protect Yūji from the Denizens, who would use the treasure to disrupt the balance of the world, and Yūji decides to join Shana in her fight.<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Mini_Wiki|mini-wiki]]<!-- someone stick this wherever it needs to go... maybe with the summaries--><br />
<br />
=== [[Shakugan no Shana:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand via the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=54 translation forum].<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Shakugan no Shana:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:guidelines|Shakugan no Shana Format Guidelines]]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
{| class="collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:left; margin:5px 20px clear:both; font-size:100%; background:transparent; width:100%;"<br />
! style="background:#ffffff;" align="center"|<br />
CLICK SHOW TO EXPAND<br />
|-<br />
|<br />
*November 15, 2011 - Volume 16 Full Text out!<br />
*August 20, 2011 - Volume 8 Full Text out!<br />
*February 26, 2011 - Project Reactivated!<br />
*January 28, 2010, Project Abandoned.<br />
*January 25, 2010 - Volume 7 Full Text out!<br />
*July 15, 2009 - Volume 5 Interlude 1 completed.<br />
*July 10, 2009 - Volume 4 Chapter 3 completed.<br />
*December 22, 2008 -Volume 4 Chapter 2 completed.<br />
*December 20, 2008 - External links from main texts to Translator's Notes/Mini Wiki improved, more reader-friendly now.<br />
*December 12, 2008 - Volume 3 Author's Notes completed. Volume 3 completed.<br />
*December 11, 2008 - Volume 5, Prologue completed.<br />
*November 21, 2008 - Volume 4, Chapter 1 completed.<br />
*November 8, 2008 - Mini Wiki created.<br />
*October 29, 2008 - Volume 3 Chapter 4 completed! Yay!<br />
*September 25, 2008 - Volume 3 Chapter 2 completed! Sorry for the wait!<br />
*September 14, 2008 - Hover Texts Initiated!<br />
*September 10, 2008 - Texts converted to past tense!<br />
*September 5, 2008 - Volume 3 Chapter 3 completed!<br />
*August 27, 2008 - Volume 3 Chapter 1 completed!<br />
*August 5, 2008 - Project started!<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== ''Shakugan no Shana'' [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yashichiro_Takahashi Yashichiro Takahashi]==<br />
<br />
=== Volume 1 - Shakugan no Shana / 灼眼のシャナ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume1_Summary|Summary (45%)]]<br />
::*Prologue<br />
::*Chapter 1 the deviant world<br />
::*Chapter 2 the sunset, the rainy night, and the morning.<br />
::*Chapter 3 shana <br />
::*Chapter 4 Yuji <br />
::*Chapter 5 the flame haze <br />
::*Epiloge <br />
::*Afterwold<br />
<br />
=== Volume 2 -Shakugan no Shana II / 灼眼のシャナII===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume2_Summary|Summary]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 3 - Shakugan no Shana III / 灼眼のシャナIII ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume3_Summary|Summary]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 4 - Shakugan no Shana IV / 灼眼のシャナIV ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume4_Summary|Summary]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 5 - Shakugan no Shana V / 灼眼のシャナV ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume5_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume5_Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume5_Interlude1|Interlude 1]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The lady of Tendōkyū]] (25 %)<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume5_Interlude2|Interlude 2]]<br />
::*Chapter 2 - Crimson Denizens<br />
::*Interlude 3<br />
::*Chapter 3 - Tenmoku Ikko<br />
::*Interlude 4<br />
::*Chapter 4 - Enpatsu Shakugan no Uchite <br />
::*Epilogue<br />
::*Author's Notes<br />
::*Translator's Notes and References<br />
<br />
=== Volume 6 - Shakugan no Shana VI / 灼眼のシャナVI ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume6_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume6_Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Anticipation]] (? %)<br />
::*Chapter 2 - Outlook<br />
::*Chapter 3 - Longing<br />
::*Chapter 4 - Despair<br />
::*Epilogue<br />
::*Author's Notes<br />
::*Translator's Notes and References<br />
<br />
=== Volume 7 - Shakugan no Shana VII / 灼眼のシャナVII ([[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Full_Text|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/?8is7lzzzge25kqu PDF for e-Reader])===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Initiation]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Reckless action]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Agitation]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Excitement]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Author's_Notes|Author's Notes]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume7_Translator's Notes and References| Translator's Notes and References]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 8 - Shakugan no Shana VIII / 灼眼のシャナVIII ([[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Full_Text|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/?9fprl8b3n4sq1hh PDF for e-Reader])===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Chapter 1| Chapter 1 - Farewell on the rainy day]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Interlude1|Interlude 1 - The return of the aide ]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - That day]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Interlude2|Interlude 2 - The assault of the general]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - The person who arrives]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume8_Interlude3|Interlude 3 - The Prayer of the Priestess]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 9 - Shakugan no Shana IX / 灼眼のシャナIX ===<br />
::*Novel Illustrations<br />
::*Prologue<br />
::*Chapter 1 - Mother city<br />
::*Chapter 2 - Departure<br />
::*Chapter 3<br />
::*Chapter 4<br />
<br />
=== Volume 0 - Shakugan no Shana 0 / 灼眼のシャナ０ ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*'''Chapter 1 - Shakugan no Shana'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part1|1. Broken World.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part2|2. Yuji.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part3|3. The Aizen Couple.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part4|4. Thousand of Quarrels.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part5|5. Ayumi, on the way to crashing everything.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part6|6. Deep Shadow.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part7|7. Now Things Are Getting Twisted.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter1_Part8|8. Crimson Teacher.]]<br />
::*'''Chapter 2 - Cinderella no Shana'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter2_Part1|1. Ceremony of the Royal Family.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter2_Part2|2. The Two Covered in Ash.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter2_Part3|3. The Royal Castle at a Crucial Moment.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter2_Part4|4. The Decisive Battle - The Dance.]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter2_Part5|5. Selection of the Prince.]]<br />
::*'''Chapter 3 - Overture'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter3_Part1|1. Oogami Junko]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter3_Part2|2. Hamaguchi Yukio]] <br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Chapter3_Part3|3. Ukobaku]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume0_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 10 - Shakugan no Shana X / 灼眼のシャナX ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume10_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume10_Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume10_Chapter_1|Chapter 1 - Great War]] (1/7)<br />
::*Chapter 2<br />
::*Chapter 3<br />
::*Chapter 4<br />
::*Chapter 5<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]] (? %)<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume10_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 11 - Shakugan no Shana XI / 灼眼のシャナXI ===<br />
<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume11_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume11_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume11_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Fall Festival Approaches]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume11_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Eve of the Festival]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume11_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Festival Begins]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume11_Epilogue|Epilogue]] <br />
<br />
=== Volume 12 - Shakugan no Shana XII / 灼眼のシャナXII ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume S - Shakugan no Shana S / 灼眼のシャナS ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume 13 - Shakugan no Shana XIII / 灼眼のシャナXIII ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume 14 - Shakugan no Shana XIV / 灼眼のシャナXIV ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume 15 - Shakugan no Shana XV / 灼眼のシャナXV ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume 16 - Shakugan no Shana XVI / 灼眼のシャナXVI ([[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Full_Text|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/?hmlb9qeem4vb2cw PDF for e-Reader])===<br />
<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I Can Only Believe]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Begin Action]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - For the Journey]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume16_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume SII - Shakugan no Shana SII / 灼眼のシャナSII ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume 17 - Shakugan no Shana XVII / 灼眼のシャナXVII ===<br />
<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Battle at Midnight]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Charred Floor]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Presence of the Answer]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Return to the Battlefield]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume17_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 18 - Shakugan no Shana XVIII / 灼眼のシャナXVIII ===<br />
<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume18_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume18_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume18_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Beacon Dances]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume18_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Infiltration Intersects]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume18_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Brilliance Blooms]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume18_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 19 - Shakugan no Shana XIX / 灼眼のシャナXIX ===<br />
<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Wound]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Time]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - God]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Path]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume19_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 20 - Shakugan no Shana XX / 灼眼のシャナXX ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Chapter 1|Chapter 1-Imperial Proclaimation]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Intermission 1|Intermission 1-God of Creation]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Chapter 2|Chapter 2-Fighting Withdrawal]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Intermission 2|Intermission 2-Assassin]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Chapter 3|Chapter 3-The Host Breaks]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume20_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 21 - Shakugan no Shana XXI / 灼眼のシャナXXI ===<br />
<br />
=== Volume 22 - Shakugan no Shana XXII / 灼眼のシャナXXII ===<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Novel_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Prologue|Prologue]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The One Summoned With the Wind]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Intermission 1|Intermission 1-Subordinate]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Chapter 2|Chapter 2-The Dream of the Disbelivers, the Dream of God]] (35%) <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Intermission 2|Intermission 2-Oracle]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Chapter 3|Chapter 3-The Curtain of the Horizon that Drew Open. The Name is]] <br />
::*[[Shakugan_no_Shana:Volume22_Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume SIII - Shakugan no Shana SIII / 灼眼のシャナSIII ===<br />
<br />
::*'''Sorrow'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Sorrow_Chapter_1|Chapter 1 - The Invader]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Sorrow_Chapter_2|Chapter 2 - The Massacrer]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Sorrow_Chapter_3|Chapter 3 - The Avenger]]<br />
::*'''Nomad'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Nomad_Chapter_1|Chapter 1 - Opening]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Nomad_Chapter_2|Chapter 2 - Contact]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Nomad_Chapter_3|Chapter 3 - Assault]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Nomad_Chapter_4|Chapter 4 - Conclusion]]<br />
::*'''Verger'''<br />
::*'''Future'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Future_Chapter_1|Chapter 1 - Misaki Municipal High School]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Future_Chapter_2|Chapter 2 - Sakai Residence]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Future_Chapter_3|Chapter 3 - Misaki City Station]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Future_Chapter_4|Chapter 4 - Sakura Festival]]<br />
::*'''Hope'''<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Hope_Chapter_1|Chapter 1 - Wilhelmina Carmel, The Manipulator of Objects]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Hope_Chapter_2|Chapter 2 - Sakai Yūji, The World-Wandering Ascetic]]<br />
::**[[Shakugan_no_Shana:VolumeS3:Hope_Chapter_3|Chapter 3 - Shana, Flame-Haired Burning-Eyed Hunter]]<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
*Project Administrator: [[user:Poke2201|Poke2201]]<br />
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Poke2201|Poke2201]]<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
<br />
All translators who are interested are welcome.<br />
<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
:* [[User:LiTTleDRAgo|LiTTleDRAgo]]<br />
<br />
:* [[User:Csmith400|Csmith400]]<br />
<br />
:* [[User:UNOwenWasWho|UNOwenWasWho]]<br />
<br />
:* [[User:Seitsuki|Seitsuki]] <br />
<br />
<br />
'''MIA'''<br />
<br />
:* [[User:Teh_Ping|Teh_Ping]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcome.<br />
<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
:* [[User:Marven054|Marven054]]<br />
:* [[User:Chancs|Chancs]]<br />
:* [[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
<br />
* Volume 1 - 灼眼のシャナ (November 9, 2002 ISBN 978-4-84-022218-1)<br />
* Volume 2 - 灼眼のシャナII (April 10, 2003, ISBN 978-4-84-022321-8)<br />
* Volume 3 - 灼眼のシャナIII (July 10, 2003, ISBN 978-4-84-022410-9)<br />
* Volume 4 - 灼眼のシャナIV (August 9, 2003, ISBN 978-4-84-022439-0)<br />
* Volume 5 - 灼眼のシャナV (November 10, 2003 ISBN 978-4-84-022519-9)<br />
* Volume 6 - 灼眼のシャナVI (February 10, 2004, ISBN 978-4-84-022608-0)<br />
* Volume 7 - 灼眼のシャナVII (July 10, 2004, ISBN 978-4-84-022725-4)<br />
* Volume 8 - 灼眼のシャナVIII (October 10, 2004, ISBN 978-4-84-022833-6)<br />
* Volume 9 - 灼眼のシャナIX (February 10, 2005, ISBN 978-4-84-022881-7)<br />
* Volume 0 - 灼眼のシャナ0 (June 10, 2005, ISBN 978-4-84-023050-6)<br />
* Volume 10 - 灼眼のシャナX (September 10, 2005, ISBN 978-4-84-023142-8)<br />
* Volume 11 - 灼眼のシャナXI (November 10, 2005, ISBN 978-4-84-023204-3)<br />
* Volume 12 - 灼眼のシャナXII (February 10, 2006, ISBN 978-4-84-023304-0)<br />
* Volume S - 灼眼のシャナS (June 10, 2006, ISBN 978-4-84-023442-9)<br />
* Volume 13 - 灼眼のシャナXIII (September 10, 2006, ISBN 978-4-84-023549-5)<br />
* Volume 14 - 灼眼のシャナXIV (February 10, 2007, ISBN 978-4-84-023719-2)<br />
* Volume 15 - 灼眼のシャナXV (August 10, 2007, ISBN 978-4-84-023929-5)<br />
* Volume 16 - 灼眼のシャナXVI (November 10, 2007, ISBN 978-4-84-024061-1)<br />
* Volume S2 - 灼眼のシャナSII (June 10, 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-867085-2)<br />
* Volume 17 - 灼眼のシャナXVII (November 10, 2008, ISBN 978-4-04-867341-9)<br />
* Volume 18 - 灼眼のシャナXVIII (February 10, 2009, ISBN 978-4-04-867521-5)<br />
* Volume 19 - 灼眼のシャナXIX (September 10, 2009, ISBN 978-4-04-868007-3)<br />
* Volume 20 - 灼眼のシャナXX (April 10, 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-868451-4)<br />
* Volume 21 - 灼眼のシャナXXI (November 10, 2010, ISBN 978-4-04-870050-4)<br />
* Volume 22 - 灼眼のシャナXXII (October 10, 2011, ISBN 978-4-04-870960-6)<br />
* Volume S3 - 灼眼のシャナSIII (November 10, 2012, ISBN 978-4-04-891085-9)<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
If you have any suggestions/questions, check out our [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=54 translation forum].<br />
<br />
[[Category:Dengeki Bunko]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Rinkan_no_Madoushi&diff=305808Rinkan no Madoushi2013-11-28T18:43:00Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Solid torus1 002.jpg|thumb|300px]]<br />
Rinkan no Madoushi (輪環の魔導師) is a light novels series written by Watase Soichiro and illustrated by Midori Fuu. The series is completed with 10 volumes.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
The gods left a blessing to the world and went away. In marginal land, "Misthound", a healer named Celo lived. Even though he was given an excellent magic tool maker from his grandfather, Celo couldn't make anything with it or use it. After his grandfather's death, he served under Ordba, and in the same time he trained to become a healer. One day, a royal magic knight named Halmbuck appeared. It seems that he was interested in his grandfather's magic tool.<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
=== [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Translators are asked to [[Rinkan no Madoushi|register]] for chapters they want to work on.<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Rinkan no Madoushi:Guidelines|Project-Specific Guidelines: Format, Names, and Terminology]]<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
* 12 July 2013 - Volume 1 Prelude completed<br />
* 1 April 2012 - Teaser project started and Volume 1 Introduction completed<br />
<br />
== ''Rinkan no Madoushi'' series by Watase Soichiro ==<br />
<br />
=== Volume 1 - Alcain of the Dark Talk ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Prelude|Prelude]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Introduction|Introduction: The Myth of the World's Creation]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1: The Girl who Swims in the Fountain of Mist]] - 80%<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2: The Beast of the Night]] - 8%<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3: Black Helping Hand]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4: Mist Hound]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5: Dark Talk]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6: Celo's Choice]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume1_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 2 - The Forest at the End of the Journey ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Introduction|Introduction]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Remainder|Remainder]]<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume2_Afterword|Afterword]]<br />
<br />
=== Volume 3 - The Kokurou Princess and the Labyrinth's Keel ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Chapter 5<br />
* Remainder<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Volume 4 - The Hired Dragon Tamer ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Chapter 5<br />
* Remainder<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Volume 5 - Puppet Castle ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Chapter 5<br />
* Chapter 6<br />
* Remainder<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Volume 6 - The Wisemen's Dream ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Chapter 5<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Volume 7 - Gale Revolution ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Volume 8 - The Absence of the Eternal Gods ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Chapter 5<br />
* Chapter 6<br />
* Afterword<br />
<br />
=== Volume 9 - Gate of the Gods World ===<br />
* [[Rinkan no Madoushi:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
* Introduction<br />
* Chapter 1<br />
* Chapter 2<br />
* Chapter 3<br />
* Chapter 4<br />
* Chapter 5<br />
* Chapter 6<br />
* Chapter 7<br />
* Remainder<br />
<br />
== Project Staff ==<br />
* Project Administrator:<br />
* Project Supervisor:<br />
<br />
==== Translators ====<br />
* [[User:Stellarroze|stellarroze]]<br />
<br />
==== Editors ====<br />
*[[User:Chancs|Chancs]]<br />
*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi Alcain of the Dark Talk - 輪環の魔導師 闇語りのアルカイン (Nov 2007 ISBN 978-4840240666)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 2 The Forest at the End of the Journey - 輪環の魔導師2 旅の終わりの森 (Mar 2008 ISBN 978-4840241915)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 3 The Kokurou Princess and the Labyrinth's Keel - 輪環の魔導師3 竜骨の迷宮と黒狼の姫 (July 2008 ISBN 978-4048671323)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 4 The Hired Dragon Tamer - 輪環の魔導師4 ハイヤードの竜使い (Oct 2008 ISBN 978-4048672689)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 5 Puppet Castle - 輪環の魔導師5 傀儡の城 (Mar 2009 ISBN 978-4048675987)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 6 The Wisemen's Dream - 輪環の魔導師6 賢人達の見る夢 (July 2009 ISBN 978-4048679060)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 7 Gale Revolution - 輪環の魔導師7 疾風の革命 (April 2010 ISBN 978-4048684620)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 8 The Absence of the Eternal Gods - 輪環の魔導師8 永き神々の不在 (Jan 2011 ISBN 978-4048702379)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 9 Gate of the Gods World - 輪環の魔導師9 神界の門 (Aug 2011 ISBN 978-4048707404)<br />
*Rinkan no Madoushi 10 The Tale of the Ring Gods - 輪環の魔導師10 輪る神々の物語 (Aug 2012 ISBN 978-4048868570)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Dengeki Bunko]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Rain&diff=305807Rain2013-11-28T18:39:54Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:Rain Volume 1 Cover.jpg|thumb|Volume 1 Cover]]<br />
Rain (レイン, ''rein'') is a Japanese light novel series by Takumi Yoshino, with illustrations by Megumi Sumikawa.<br />
Currently there are 9 volumes in this series.<br />
Volume 10 has taken two years. It was written in the form of an email magazine to subscribers, and finished in Feb. 2013. Currently, the author has started writing volume 11 via the same method. There is a high probability of volume 10 being published in paperback form sometime before summer 2013. <br />
<br />
===Synposis===<br />
Murgenia, a continent located in a different world.<br />
<br />
Not yet fallen to the hands of the Scientific Revolution, this land continues to pass down with care the fading magics of it's ancient days.<br />
It is a world ruled by sword and sorcery —<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">☆☆☆</div><br />
<br />
A long time has passed since the war which engulfed the whole of Murgenia. Yet the precariously<br />
maintained balance of peace approaches its end.<br />
<br />
Zarmine, a large kingdom located in the northern part of the continent has been reborn with the<br />
coming of its new king.<br />
<br />
Unsatisfied with the small power he wields, the desire for conquest consumes him.<br />
Under orders from this king who knows no equal, the Dark Army begins its invasion, turning many<br />
countries to the flames of war.<br />
<br />
Among those preparing for invasion is a small country located to the south west of the continent,<br />
known as Sunkwoll.<br />
<br />
The military strength is not even one tenth that of a large country. The will of the soldiers shakes.<br />
The king pours out lavish luxuries upon the nobility, without regard to the welfare of his people.<br />
<br />
It seems as though the destruction of this small, weak country Sunkwoll…is imminent.<br />
<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Rain:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Rain:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[Rain:Names and Terminology Guideline|Project specific Guidelines: Names and Terminology]] (might contain spoilers)<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
<br />
*23 May,2013 - Volume 1 Chapter 3,4 complete<br />
*22 May,2013 - Volume 1 Prologue, Chapter 1,2 complete<br />
*22 May,2013 - Project started as a teaser<br />
<br />
==The ''Rain'' series by Takumi Yoshino==<br />
<br />
'''If available, you will find the PDF, EPUB and/or MOBI version(s) of the Volumes in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=3410 here].''' If you are interested in sharing your version in any format please post in that topic.<br />
<br />
===Volume 1 - ([[Rain:Volume 1|Full Text]])===<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Chapter 1|Chapter 1: Rain, Under House Arrest]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Chapter 2|Chapter 2: Ralphus’s Battle]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Chapter 3|Chapter 3: Shelfa, Departure from Galfort Castle]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Chapter 4|Chapter 4: Reunion]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Chapter 5|Chapter 5: Decisive Battle]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Epilogue|Epilogue: Rain, Warrior Born on a Rainy Day]]<br />
*[[Rain:Volume_1_Special|Special Original: Start of a Friendship - In Lunan]]<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
*Project Administrator: <br />
*Project Supervisor: [[User:Saganatsu|Saganatsu]]<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
:* [[User:Krikit|Krikit]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
:* [[User:Cthaeh|Cthaeh]]<br />
:*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcome.<br />
[[Category:Genre - Action]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Iris_on_Rainy_Days&diff=305806Iris on Rainy Days2013-11-28T18:37:29Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:Iris on Rainy Days - cover art.png |thumb|300px|Cover art]] <br />
'''''Iris on Rainy Days''''' (雨の日のアイリス / Ame no Hi no Iris) is a light novel written by Takeshi Matsuyama and illustrated by Hirasato. The novel is ranked 10th in the "This Light Novel is Great! 2012 (このライトノベルがすごい! 2012)" ranking.<br />
<br />
Iris on Rainy Days is available in the following languages:<br />
* [[Ирис в дождливые дни|Russian (Русский)]]<br />
* [[Iris on Rainy Days ~ Français|French (Français)]]<br />
* [[Iris on Rainy Days ~ Español|Spanish (Español)]]<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
The story is centred around a cute android who initially had a happy life with her master who dearly loved her. But she was then struck by a series of misfortunes and ended up in a robot-equivalent of concentration camp. Through experiencing and witnessing the sufferings towards herself as well as the people/robots around her, she eventually gained a better appreciation of life.<br />
<br />
== Characters Introduction ==<br />
<div><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Iris Rain Umbrella</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Iris.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A cute android who lives a happy and peaceful life with her master, Wendy von Umbrella, but then one day...<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Wendy von Umbrella</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Wendy.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A famous scientist in robotics and Iris's master. She really likes teasing poor Iris.<br />
</div><br />
<br style="clear: both;" /><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Lilith Sunlight</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Lilith.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A joyful and friendly android who is also sharp-tongued. She quickly becomes friends with Iris.<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Volkov Galosh</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Volkov.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A huge robot with a stuttering voice and slow and clumsy motions. He seems to get along well with Lilith.<br />
</div><br />
<br style="clear: both;" /><br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Iris on Rainy Days:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on''' <br />
<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
<br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the teasers, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4412 Discussion thread] or in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4661 Teaser Feedback thread] and give the project a vote'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
*June 15, 2011 - Teaser page created. Forum translations by DNK uploaded.<br />
*January 13, 2012 - Iris on Rainy Days project completed. Credits to Zephyrus for the single-handed translation.<br />
<br />
==<span id="_by">''Iris on Rainy Days ([[Iris on Rainy Days Full Text|Full Text]] - [http://mir.cr/UEA6OVNF PDF for e-Reader] - [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=4786 ePUB/MOBI])''</span>==<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days:Illustrations|Novel illustrations]] ===<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days:Prologue|Prologue]] ===<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 1 – Dismantling ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 7 Days Before|7 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 6 Days Before|6 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 5 Days Before|5 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 4 Days Before|4 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 3 Days Before|3 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 2 Days Before|2 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 1 Day Before|1 Day Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- Day of Dismantlement|Day of Dismantlement]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 2 – Rebirth ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 1|Day 1]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 2|Day 2]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 8|Day 8]]''' <br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 15|Day 15]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 32|Day 32]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 44|Day 44]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 55|Day 55]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 69|Day 69]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 73|Day 73]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 78|Day 78]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 83|Day 83]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 3 – Execution ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- The Previous Night|The Previous Night]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- The Day|The Day]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:50:36|battery=04:50:36]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:46:03|battery=04:46:03]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:21:29|battery=04:21:29]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:10:52|battery=04:10:52]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=03:58:01|battery=03:58:01]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=03:45:32|battery=03:45:32]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=02:14:17|battery=02:14:17]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=02:01:40|battery=02:01:40]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:49:52|battery=01:49:52]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:28:13|battery=01:28:13]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:24:41|battery=01:24:41]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:16:56|battery=01:16:56]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:58:34|battery=00:58:34]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:43:08|battery=00:43:08]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:05:36|battery=00:05:36]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:00:00|battery=00:00:00]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 4 – Letters ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- News Report – "National Defense Force Suppresses Robot Breakaway"|News Report – "National Defense Force Suppresses Robot Breakaway"]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- News Report – "Paper Slips at the Scene Identified as Children Literature"|News Report – "Paper Slips at the Scene Identified as Children Literature"]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- News Column – Modern Robotics - "The End of a Certain Robot"|News Column – Modern Robotics - "The End of a Certain Robot"]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- Professor Wendy von Umbrella's Letter|Professor Wendy von Umbrella's Letter]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- Ralph Ciel's reboot experiment|Ralph Ciel's reboot experiment]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- Iris' Letter|Iris' Letter]]'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days: Afterword|Afterword]] ===<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
===Translators===<br />
:*[[User:Zephyrus|Zephyrus]] <br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
[[User:Rock96|Rock96]] - occasionally drop by and edit small parts.<br />
<br />
[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
'''INACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
*雨の日のアイリス / Ame no Hi no Iris (10 May 2011, ISBN 978-4048705301)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Oneshot]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Iris_on_Rainy_Days&diff=305805Iris on Rainy Days2013-11-28T18:36:58Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:Iris on Rainy Days - cover art.png |thumb|300px|Cover art]] <br />
'''''Iris on Rainy Days''''' (雨の日のアイリス / Ame no Hi no Iris) is a light novel written by Takeshi Matsuyama and illustrated by Hirasato. The novel is ranked 10th in the "This Light Novel is Great! 2012 (このライトノベルがすごい! 2012)" ranking.<br />
<br />
Iris on Rainy Days is available in the following languages:<br />
* [[Ирис в дождливые дни|Russian (Русский)]]<br />
* [[Iris on Rainy Days ~ Français|French (Français)]]<br />
* [[Iris on Rainy Days ~ Español|Spanish (Español)]]<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
The story is centred around a cute android who initially had a happy life with her master who dearly loved her. But she was then struck by a series of misfortunes and ended up in a robot-equivalent of concentration camp. Through experiencing and witnessing the sufferings towards herself as well as the people/robots around her, she eventually gained a better appreciation of life.<br />
<br />
== Characters Introduction ==<br />
<div><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Iris Rain Umbrella</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Iris.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A cute android who lives a happy and peaceful life with her master, Wendy von Umbrella, but then one day...<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Wendy von Umbrella</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Wendy.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A famous scientist in robotics and Iris's master. She really likes teasing poor Iris.<br />
</div><br />
<br style="clear: both;" /><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Lilith Sunlight</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Lilith.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A joyful and friendly android who is also sharp-tongued. She quickly becomes friends with Iris.<br />
</div><br />
<div style="float: left; width: 350px; margin: 5px 20px;"><br />
<b>Volkov Galosh</b><br />
[[Image:Iris_on_Rainy_Days_Volkov.jpg|left|link=]]<br />
A huge robot with a stuttering voice and slow and clumsy motions. He seems to get along well with Lilith.<br />
</div><br />
<br style="clear: both;" /><br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Iris on Rainy Days:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on''' <br />
<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
<br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the teasers, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4412 Discussion thread] or in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=4661 Teaser Feedback thread] and give the project a vote'''<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
*June 15, 2011 - Teaser page created. Forum translations by DNK uploaded.<br />
*January 13, 2012 - Iris on Rainy Days project completed. Credits to Zephyrus for the single-handed translation.<br />
<br />
==<span id="_by">''Iris on Rainy Days ([[Iris on Rainy Days Full Text|Full Text]] - [http://mir.cr/UEA6OVNF PDF for e-Reader] - [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=4786 ePUB/MOBI])''</span>==<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days:Illustrations|Novel illustrations]] ===<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days:Prologue|Prologue]] ===<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 1 – Dismantling ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 7 Days Before|7 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 6 Days Before|6 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 5 Days Before|5 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 4 Days Before|4 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 3 Days Before|3 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 2 Days Before|2 Days Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- 1 Day Before|1 Day Before]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Dismantling- Day of Dismantlement|Day of Dismantlement]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 2 – Rebirth ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 1|Day 1]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 2|Day 2]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 8|Day 8]]''' <br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 15|Day 15]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 32|Day 32]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 44|Day 44]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 55|Day 55]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 69|Day 69]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 73|Day 73]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 78|Day 78]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Rebirth- Day 83|Day 83]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 3 – Execution ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- The Previous Night|The Previous Night]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- The Day|The Day]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:50:36|battery=04:50:36]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:46:03|battery=04:46:03]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:21:29|battery=04:21:29]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=04:10:52|battery=04:10:52]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=03:58:01|battery=03:58:01]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=03:45:32|battery=03:45:32]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=02:14:17|battery=02:14:17]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=02:01:40|battery=02:01:40]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:49:52|battery=01:49:52]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:28:13|battery=01:28:13]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:24:41|battery=01:24:41]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=01:16:56|battery=01:16:56]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:58:34|battery=00:58:34]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:43:08|battery=00:43:08]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:05:36|battery=00:05:36]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Execution- battery=00:00:00|battery=00:00:00]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Chapter 4 – Letters ===<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- News Report – "National Defense Force Suppresses Robot Breakaway"|News Report – "National Defense Force Suppresses Robot Breakaway"]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- News Report – "Paper Slips at the Scene Identified as Children Literature"|News Report – "Paper Slips at the Scene Identified as Children Literature"]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- News Column – Modern Robotics - "The End of a Certain Robot"|News Column – Modern Robotics - "The End of a Certain Robot"]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- Professor Wendy von Umbrella's Letter|Professor Wendy von Umbrella's Letter]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- Ralph Ciel's reboot experiment|Ralph Ciel's reboot experiment]]'''<br />
::* '''[[Iris on Rainy Days: Letters- Iris' Letter|Iris' Letter]]'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== [[Iris on Rainy Days: Afterword|Afterword]] ===<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
===Translators===<br />
:*[[User:Zephyrus|Zephyrus]] <br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
'''ACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
[[User:Rock96|Rock96]] - occasionally drop by and edit small parts.<br />
[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
'''INACTIVE'''<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
*雨の日のアイリス / Ame no Hi no Iris (10 May 2011, ISBN 978-4048705301)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Oneshot]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Piroko&diff=305731User talk:Piroko2013-11-28T13:07:54Z<p>Shadowmaster850: Created page with "Do you mind if I help out with the editing of strike witches? My name is shadowmaster850"</p>
<hr />
<div>Do you mind if I help out with the editing of strike witches? My name is shadowmaster850</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Par74583&diff=305707User talk:Par745832013-11-28T11:08:29Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Madan no Ou to Vandis */</p>
<hr />
<div>===== Comments =====<br />
Ooh, thanks a lot cramped! Didn't expect that you'd join BT this soon. Keep the good work! - Anonymous reader (And one of posters at Animesuki)<br />
<br />
Thank you for become one of the translators for Madan no Ou to Vanadis! ( Mokata)<br />
<br />
I wanna hang out too T_T Where is that? can you give me a link?[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 10:22, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
I just joined Animesuki same UserName[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 11:02, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Was that a link? somehow I cant seem to open it.[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 11:04, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Can we continue this tommorw? I'm sleepy it's around 1 o clock and I've got stuff to do tommorow, (how the hell do I answer the anti-spam q's for the registration at the BT forum?!!!?!?!?!?!?!)<br />
[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 11:28, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
<br />
So that's how you do it, but what does it mean when ''"The password does not contain the required characters."''?.<br />
I already tried to use numbers but it still doesn't work [[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 01:06, 11 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
i have a question. where is Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa at? can someone give me a link, i cant find it lol<br />
<br />
It's just the prologue, also I am working on ch.1 of it and chaika at the moment. Still my laptop that I work on broke so not doing anything for now (I don't like typing on japanese macbook's keyboard ------> a pain in the arse).<br />
<br />
===== Expressing Gratitude =====<br />
Tyvm for picking up the Madan no OU to Vandis and releasing a chapter for us readers to enjoy! (Topler)<br />
<br />
==== Madan no Ou to Vandis ====<br />
<br />
Thank you for your work on Madan no Ou to Vanadis. Your translation is really good !<br />
<br />
thank you! and please pass my gratitude to xena too! your translation was is very good and if i may be so bold as to ask, will you be translating the rest? thanks!<br />
<br />
Thanks for answering my Q's earlier, I just wanted to confirmation on what to change bec. I think I'll pitch in with the editing of Setsuna's translations.[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 05:30, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
I'm going to edit chapter 2 a few hours from now and I think I'll be done with chapter 1 by the time you read this and I also informed Setsuna every line that I have edited in his talk page, so can you please go over them if you have the time? (just to be sure)[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 06:46, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Hi there My name is shadowmater850 and I was wondering if you would allow me to put my name down on the Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa project as an editor. There are a couple of things I see mistakes in and would like your permission.<br />
<br />
==== Me ====<br />
XD, I don't even know when my account was slapped into the translator part of this project, anyway the credits also go to Xena at animesuki too.<br />
<br />
== Shikkin ==<br />
<br />
Shikkin rocks. [[User:Kira0802|Kira]] ([[User_talk:Kira0802|Talk]]) 22:33, 5 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
u guys really are going with shikkin huh?...urinary functions........well,the first chap was awesome lolz,shou is quite the character -- [[User:Ways|<span style="color:green;font:bold 10pt kristen itc">Ways</span>]]([[User talk:Ways|talk]]) 22:36, 5 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Haha, agreed shikkin rocks, the craziest novel I have ever read, gonna go around to help (if u want) with my meager chinese language skill after getting chaika to be an official teaser. [[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User_talk:Par74583|talk]]) 20:56, 6 May 2013 (GMT+7)<br />
<br />
Hi, I just wanna know whether you'r going to continue translating Shikkin.<br />
<br />
answer : Even I don't know it myself - [[User:Par74583|Patron God of NTRed]] ([[User talk:Par74583#top|talk]]) 09:06, 4 October 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
== Maou na Ore to Ghoul no Yubiwa ==<br />
<br />
Hi, vol 2 prologue is just 6 pages, (bitesize=perfect for me), mind if I snag it? "[[User:黒曜石ペガサス|黒曜石ペガサス]] ([[User talk:黒曜石ペガサス|talk]]) 10:11, 1 October 2013 (CDT)"<br />
<br />
I don't mind participating, but take into account that my japanese proficiency is not enough for a speedy translationand I'm not a native english speaker, so my grammar is not near perfect.--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 06:17, 27 July 2013 (CDT)<br />
I supposse.--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 05:04, 29 July 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
I'll take the second chapter, as you asked. I'll keep you translation and continue from there.--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 11:40, 2 September 2013 (CDT)</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Par74583&diff=305706User talk:Par745832013-11-28T11:08:09Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Madan no Ou to Vandis */</p>
<hr />
<div>===== Comments =====<br />
Ooh, thanks a lot cramped! Didn't expect that you'd join BT this soon. Keep the good work! - Anonymous reader (And one of posters at Animesuki)<br />
<br />
Thank you for become one of the translators for Madan no Ou to Vanadis! ( Mokata)<br />
<br />
I wanna hang out too T_T Where is that? can you give me a link?[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 10:22, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
I just joined Animesuki same UserName[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 11:02, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Was that a link? somehow I cant seem to open it.[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 11:04, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Can we continue this tommorw? I'm sleepy it's around 1 o clock and I've got stuff to do tommorow, (how the hell do I answer the anti-spam q's for the registration at the BT forum?!!!?!?!?!?!?!)<br />
[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 11:28, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
<br />
So that's how you do it, but what does it mean when ''"The password does not contain the required characters."''?.<br />
I already tried to use numbers but it still doesn't work [[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 01:06, 11 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
i have a question. where is Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa at? can someone give me a link, i cant find it lol<br />
<br />
It's just the prologue, also I am working on ch.1 of it and chaika at the moment. Still my laptop that I work on broke so not doing anything for now (I don't like typing on japanese macbook's keyboard ------> a pain in the arse).<br />
<br />
===== Expressing Gratitude =====<br />
Tyvm for picking up the Madan no OU to Vandis and releasing a chapter for us readers to enjoy! (Topler)<br />
<br />
==== Madan no Ou to Vandis ====<br />
<br />
Thank you for your work on Madan no Ou to Vanadis. Your translation is really good !<br />
<br />
thank you! and please pass my gratitude to xena too! your translation was is very good and if i may be so bold as to ask, will you be translating the rest? thanks!<br />
<br />
Thanks for answering my Q's earlier, I just wanted to confirmation on what to change bec. I think I'll pitch in with the editing of Setsuna's translations.[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 05:30, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
I'm going to edit chapter 2 a few hours from now and I think I'll be done with chapter 1 by the time you read this and I also informed Setsuna every line that I have edited in his talk page, so can you please go over them if you have the time? (just to be sure)[[User:ZAIZEAH|ZAIZEAH]] ([[User talk:ZAIZEAH|talk]]) 06:46, 10 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
Hi there My name is shadowmater850 and I was wondering if you would allow me to put my name down on the Maou na Ore to Fushihime no Yubiwa project as an editor. There are a couple of things I see mistakes in and would like your permission.<br />
<br />
==== Me ====<br />
XD, I don't even know when my account was slapped into the translator part of this project, anyway the credits also go to Xena at animesuki too.<br />
<br />
== Shikkin ==<br />
<br />
Shikkin rocks. [[User:Kira0802|Kira]] ([[User_talk:Kira0802|Talk]]) 22:33, 5 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
u guys really are going with shikkin huh?...urinary functions........well,the first chap was awesome lolz,shou is quite the character -- [[User:Ways|<span style="color:green;font:bold 10pt kristen itc">Ways</span>]]([[User talk:Ways|talk]]) 22:36, 5 May 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
Haha, agreed shikkin rocks, the craziest novel I have ever read, gonna go around to help (if u want) with my meager chinese language skill after getting chaika to be an official teaser. [[User:Par74583|Par74583]] ([[User_talk:Par74583|talk]]) 20:56, 6 May 2013 (GMT+7)<br />
<br />
Hi, I just wanna know whether you'r going to continue translating Shikkin.<br />
<br />
answer : Even I don't know it myself - [[User:Par74583|Patron God of NTRed]] ([[User talk:Par74583#top|talk]]) 09:06, 4 October 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
== Maou na Ore to Ghoul no Yubiwa ==<br />
<br />
Hi, vol 2 prologue is just 6 pages, (bitesize=perfect for me), mind if I snag it? "[[User:黒曜石ペガサス|黒曜石ペガサス]] ([[User talk:黒曜石ペガサス|talk]]) 10:11, 1 October 2013 (CDT)"<br />
<br />
I don't mind participating, but take into account that my japanese proficiency is not enough for a speedy translationand I'm not a native english speaker, so my grammar is not near perfect.--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 06:17, 27 July 2013 (CDT)<br />
I supposse.--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 05:04, 29 July 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
I'll take the second chapter, as you asked. I'll keep you translation and continue from there.--[[User:Kemm|Kemm]] ([[User talk:Kemm|talk]]) 11:40, 2 September 2013 (CDT)</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Haken_no_Kouki_Altina&diff=305185Haken no Kouki Altina2013-11-26T21:25:22Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:ALTINA v01 cover.jpg|thumbnail|right|250px]]<br />
'''Haken no Kouki Altina''' (覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ), also known as '''Altina the Sword Princess''', is a light novel series written by ''Yukiya Murasaki'' and illustrated by ''himesuz''.<br />
<br />
<br />
The Haken no Kouki Altina is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina PL|Polski (Polish)]]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
Regis is an incapable soldier, bad at both sword mastery and archery, who only reads books. He meets a girl at the remote region where he was transferred to. Altina, the red-haired and crimson-eyed princess who wields the supreme ruler’s sword. She was appointed to become the commander of the remote region's army despite being fourteen years old, simply for being the Emperor's illegitimate child. However, she is holding onto her big dream without being depressed in the environment she is in. “I trust you.” Regis, who was sought from her as a tactician, stands up to the obstacles together with her. The military fantasy interweaved by the bibliophagic boy and the princess with the supreme ruler’s sword.<br />
<br />
(''Story Synopsis taken from Volume 1 cover.'')<br />
<br />
==Series Information==<br />
*Genre: Fantasy<br />
*Original Title: Haken no Kouki Aruthiina (覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ)<br />
*Author: Yukiya Murasaki (むらさき ゆきや)<br />
*Illustrator: himesuz<br />
*Series Status: Ongoing<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
===[[Haken no Kouki Altina Registration Page|Registration Page]]===<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Haken no Kouki Altina Registration Page|register]] the chapters they want to work on.'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the Haken no Kouki Altina's project guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina: Names and Terminology Guidelines]]<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Names and Terminology Guideline|Project specific Guidelines: Names and Terminology]] <br />
'''All edited translations are to be in British English. However, there will be frequent use of French language.'''<br />
<br />
===Feedback===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in this [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=6004 forum]'''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*August 12, 2013 - Teaser created (Chapter 1)<br />
*August 23, 2013 - Project page created<br />
*August 24, 2013 - Upgraded to Full Project<br />
<br />
<br />
==Haken no Kouki Altina series by Yukiya Murasaki==<br />
<br />
===Volume 1===<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1: The Girl with Red Hair and Crimson Eyes]]<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2: Promise at Dawn]](3/12)<br />
:*Chapter 3<br />
:*Chapter 4<br />
:*The World of Haken no Kouki Altina<br />
:*Afterword<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
:*Project Administrator:<br />
:*Project Supervisor:<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
:*[[User:Code-Zero|Code-Zero]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
:*[[User:Misogi|Misogi]] (French Proofreader & Editor)<br />
:*[[username:shadowmaster850|shadowmster850]]<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina I 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ I (October 29, 2012)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina II 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ II (February 28, 2013)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina III 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ III (June 29, 2013)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina IV 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ IV (October 30, 2013)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Famitsu Bunko]]<br />
[[Category:Genre - Action]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Haken_no_Kouki_Altina&diff=305184Haken no Kouki Altina2013-11-26T21:24:03Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:ALTINA v01 cover.jpg|thumbnail|right|250px]]<br />
'''Haken no Kouki Altina''' (覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ), also known as '''Altina the Sword Princess''', is a light novel series written by ''Yukiya Murasaki'' and illustrated by ''himesuz''.<br />
<br />
<br />
The Haken no Kouki Altina is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina PL|Polski (Polish)]]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
Regis is an incapable soldier, bad at both sword mastery and archery, who only reads books. He meets a girl at the remote region where he was transferred to. Altina, the red-haired and crimson-eyed princess who wields the supreme ruler’s sword. She was appointed to become the commander of the remote region's army despite being fourteen years old, simply for being the Emperor's illegitimate child. However, she is holding onto her big dream without being depressed in the environment she is in. “I trust you.” Regis, who was sought from her as a tactician, stands up to the obstacles together with her. The military fantasy interweaved by the bibliophagic boy and the princess with the supreme ruler’s sword.<br />
<br />
(''Story Synopsis taken from Volume 1 cover.'')<br />
<br />
==Series Information==<br />
*Genre: Fantasy<br />
*Original Title: Haken no Kouki Aruthiina (覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ)<br />
*Author: Yukiya Murasaki (むらさき ゆきや)<br />
*Illustrator: himesuz<br />
*Series Status: Ongoing<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
===[[Haken no Kouki Altina Registration Page|Registration Page]]===<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Haken no Kouki Altina Registration Page|register]] the chapters they want to work on.'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the Haken no Kouki Altina's project guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina: Names and Terminology Guidelines]]<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Names and Terminology Guideline|Project specific Guidelines: Names and Terminology]] <br />
'''All edited translations are to be in British English. However, there will be frequent use of French language.'''<br />
<br />
===Feedback===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in this [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=6004 forum]'''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*August 12, 2013 - Teaser created (Chapter 1)<br />
*August 23, 2013 - Project page created<br />
*August 24, 2013 - Upgraded to Full Project<br />
<br />
<br />
==Haken no Kouki Altina series by Yukiya Murasaki==<br />
<br />
===Volume 1===<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1: The Girl with Red Hair and Crimson Eyes]]<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2: Promise at Dawn]](3/12)<br />
:*Chapter 3<br />
:*Chapter 4<br />
:*The World of Haken no Kouki Altina<br />
:*Afterword<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
:*Project Administrator:<br />
:*Project Supervisor:<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
:*[[User:Code-Zero|Code-Zero]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
:*[[User:Misogi|Misogi]] (French Proofreader & Editor)<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina I 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ I (October 29, 2012)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina II 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ II (February 28, 2013)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina III 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ III (June 29, 2013)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina IV 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ IV (October 30, 2013)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Famitsu Bunko]]<br />
[[Category:Genre - Action]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=305062ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-26T12:21:39Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than going alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my cloths. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time in outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else that might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not be seen clearly, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanished while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name or even write it in on the hull, but to me any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place, but perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship, but I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that the Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, it is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank, but Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place wherein the surrounding area contained no people and moved myself into it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I would likely not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side, but while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force, but my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
<br />
<references /><br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Back to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_2|Chapter 2]]<br />
| Return to [[ShinSekai_Yori|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_1|Part 4]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=No_Game_No_Life&diff=305061No Game No Life2013-11-26T12:09:39Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:NGNL Volume 1 cover page.jpg|thumb|300px|No Game No Life Volume 1 Cover]]<br />
<b><i>No Game No Life</i></b> (ノーゲーム．ノーライフ) is a light novel series written and illustrated by Kamiya Yuu (榎宫祐) and published in MF Bunko J. The series currently has 4 volumes published. <br />
<br />
This series is also avaible in the following languages:<br />
<br />
:*[[No_Game_No_Life~Brazilian_Portuguese~|Brazilian Portuguese (Português Brasileiro)]]<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
<br />
There was an urban legend that there was a legendary, undefeated gamer called [ ], but in reality he was just a NEET brother and sister called 空 (Sora) and 白 (Shiro). These hikikomori siblings who both refer to the real world as a worthless "Kuso Game" are one day summoned to a different world by a boy calling himself "God". In this world, war is prohibited by God and everything is instead decided by a game...that's right, even country borders. Can the two NEET brother and sister save the last of the human race <Imanity>, which only has one city left?<br />
<br />
"Now...let the game begin!"<br />
<br />
== Translation ==<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*[[No_Game_No_Life:Names and Terminology Guideline|Project specific Guidelines: Names and Terminology]]<br />
<br />
=== [[No Game No Life:Registration Page|Registration]] ===<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[No Game No Life:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''<br />
<br />
=== Feedback ===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the translation, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=5520 Feedback thread] or discuss it in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=5444&p forum] '''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*September 13, 2013<br />
**Volume 3 Prologue completed.<br />
*August 29, 2013<br />
**Volume 1 completed + Afterwords<br />
*August 28, 2013<br />
**Volume 1 Epilogue completed.<br />
*August 19, 2013<br />
**Volume 1 chapter 4 completed<br />
*August 05, 2013.<br />
**Volume 1 chapter 3 completed<br />
*August 02, 2013<br />
**Volume 2 Prologue completed.<br />
*July 25, 2013<br />
**Volume 1 Chapter 2 completed.<br />
*July 21, 2013<br />
**Volume 1 Chapter 1 completed<br />
*October 10, 2012<br />
**Initiated as a teaser project<br />
<br />
== No Game No Life by Kamiya Yuu ==<br />
<br />
===Volume 1 - It Seems Gamer Siblings Will Conquer a Fantasy World ([[No Game No Life:Volume 1|Full Text]])===<br />
[[File:NGNL Volume 1 cover page.jpg|thumb|x175px]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Prologue|Prologue]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Beginner/Amateur]] <br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Challenger/Challenger]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Expert/Expert]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Grandmaster/The King]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Epilogue|Epilogue]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 1 Afterwords|Afterwords]]<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Volume 2 - The Gamer Siblings Seem to Have Their Sights on the Land of Kemonomimi===<br />
[[File:NGNL V2 Cover Page.jpg|thumb|x175px]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Prologue|Opening]] <br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Weak Square/Setting the Board]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Unexpected Move/One Move]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Sacrifice/Sacrificial Move]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Checkmate/Checkmate]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 2 Epilogue|Fake End]]<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Volume 3 - A Half of the Gamer Siblings Seems to Have Disappeared...?===<br />
[[File:NGNL V3 Cover Page.jpg|thumb|x175px]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Prologue|Data Load]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Sky Walk/Disassociation Method]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Blue Rose/Directional Method]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Killing Giant/Guiding Method]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Rule Number 10/Convergence Method]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 3 Epilogue|True End]]<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Volume 4 - The Gamer Siblings Have Run Away From a Realistic Romance Game===<br />
[[File:NGNL V4 Cover Page.jpg|thumb|x175px]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Prologue|Easy Start]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - Encounter/The Devil]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - Strategist/The Sun]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Charmer/The Empress]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Wild Card/The Fool]]<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 4 Epilogue|Interrupt End]]<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
===Volume 5 - It Appears the Gamer Siblings Hate New Game Plus===<br />
::*[[No Game No Life:Volume 5 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
<br />
<br style="clear:both"/><br />
<br />
''Courtesy of [[User:jonathanasdf|jonathanasdf]] for the teaser of vol. 1 chapter 3''<br />
<br />
''Courtesy of [[User:Teh Ping|Teh Ping]] for the teaser of vol. 1 chapter 1'' as part of the "a translation a day" initiative<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
* Project Administrator:<br />
* Project Supervisor:<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
:*[[User:Drinkingwater|Drinkingwater]] (CL translator)<br />
:*[[User:Seitsuki|Seitsuki]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
<br />
:*[[User:神|神]]<br />
:*[[shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
== Series Overview ==<br />
<br />
*ノーゲーム・ノーライフ1 ゲーマー兄妹がファンタジー世界を征服するそうです (MF文庫J) (April 23, 2012) - ISBN: 978-4-8401-4546-6<br />
*ノーゲーム・ノーライフ2 ゲーマー兄妹が獣耳っ子の国に目をつけたようです (MF文庫J) (September 22, 2012) - ISBN: 978-4-8401-4819-1<br />
*ノーゲーム・ノーライフ3 ゲーマー兄妹の片割れが消えたようですが……？ (MF文庫J) (January 25, 2013) - ISBN: 978-4-8401-4958-7<br />
*ノーゲーム・ノーライフ4 ゲーマー兄妹はリアル恋愛ゲームから逃げ出しました (MF文庫J) (June 25, 2013) - ISBN: 978-4-8401-5185-6<br />
*ノーゲーム・ノーライフ5 ゲーマー兄妹は強くてニューゲームがお嫌いなようです (MF文庫J) (November 25, 2013) - ISBN: 978-4-04-066080-6<br />
<br />
[[Category:MF_Bunko_J]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=305012ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-26T09:00:33Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than going alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my cloths. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time in outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else that might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not be seen clearly, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanished while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name or even write it in on the hull, but to me any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place, but perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship, but I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that the Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, it is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank, but Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place wherein the surrounding area contained no people and moved myself into it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I would likely not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side but, while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into a complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force but, my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while, my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=304833ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-25T23:32:29Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than going alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my cloths. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time in outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else that might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not be seen clearly, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanished while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name or even write it in on the hull, but to me any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place, but perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship, but I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, It is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was already arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank but, Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away, seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place where the surrounding area contained no people and remove myself to it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I likely would not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway, I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such as fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However, when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side but, while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into a complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force but, my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while, my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
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<references /><br />
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| Forward to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_1|Part 4]]<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Nogizaka_Haruka_no_Himitsu:Volume1_Prologue&diff=304826Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1 Prologue2013-11-25T23:19:13Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Prologue */</p>
<hr />
<div>===Prologue===<br />
<br />
My classmate Nogizaka Haruka is completely flawless.<br />
<br />
It may seem a little, you know… to hear this stupid-sounding sentence as an opening, but this is indeed a fact. An undeniable fact.<br />
<br />
Nogizaka Haruka has beautiful soft hair that stretches down to her back, obvious double eyelid and clear eyes that are slightly hanging down at the sides. Adding on to that, she emits an astonishing aura, I believe any man that walks past her on the streets, a hundred out of a hundred of them would be charmed into turning back to look at her once more. Speaking of which, I am one of them. After all, she was crowned Miss Hakujō Academy when she was just a mere first-year student last year with an amazingly high number of votes, and ever since that beauty contest, everyone calls her “Nuit Étoile” (The Silver Star of the Night). The number of guys that confessed to her in that year, reached a three digit figure, a secret fan club was established specially for her, and there were sayings that even the principal is a member of that fan club, and it was likely that was more than just a rumor.<br />
<br />
Even with that, it is still not that special yet, because there is always someone that is like a school idol in any school. Taking a stroll across the entire country, you will be sure to find tens, hundreds of people like this.<br />
<br />
However, Nogizaka Haruka’s outstanding quality lies in that: her good qualities that deserve special mention, goes beyond her appearance that was mentioned above.<br />
<br />
Firstly, she has a very good character.<br />
<br />
Her personality is prudent and mature; she shows a smile to whomever she meets and treats others gently, giving off an atmosphere like lillies blossoming. Let's not talk about others first, she is a precious example to defy the logic that all beauties have an ugly personality.<br />
<br />
Besides that, she is very smart.<br />
<br />
One year ago, during the ability test that was conducted at the start of school, all her subjects were above ninety marks, taking first place for the entire grade and leaving a big gap between her and the second placing. Ever since her astonishing feat, she has maintained the first place up till now. Maybe it could be said that her brain structure is entirely different from normal people…… Compared to her, all our brain juices must be stuff that is like dried up dregs of beans.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, she is cultured.<br />
<br />
Japanese folk dance with flower arrangement, the art of tea with calligraphy. The skills that she has learnt since young must add up to at least ten and in each of the areas for these skills she is able to show an unparalleled talent, making it all the more shocking. Among which, her best would be piano, her piano skills have been commented to be of professional standard, receiving a single-sided praise in the music realm. Now she is performing before the eyes of the entire class, just watching her fingers dance elegantly on the piano keys would make one agree to those comments.<br />
<br />
Even more so, she is clever and deft, possessing a first-rate qualification for English, a qualification for a certain ancient martial art style that allows her to take lessons in place of the master, the title of being a daughter of a renown business family…… etc. All in all, she is someone that takes on the phrase “Heaven does not bestow more than a single gift” (A phrase that is to say one person possesses no more than a single gift or talent [translation may not be too accurate to get the direct phrasing]) head-on and obtain a total victory over it.<br />
<br />
However……<br />
<br />
Even Nogizaka Haruka, that is so close to perfection, has one single weakness or that is to say, a secret.<br />
<br />
But right now, the only person that knows this secret is me; and because of this, I have a closer relationship with her. In the end, I was half forced into stepping into a world I have never touched on before. Just that……<br />
<br />
Then, her performance ended while I was thinking.<br />
<br />
"What you've just heard was the third movement of Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor, Appassionata, performed by Nogizaka Haruka. Thank you, Haruka."<br />
<br />
Under the music teacher's, Yukari (twenty-three years old, currently looking for a boyfriend), direction, every one of us started to clap warmly, while Nogizaka Haruka gave a shy smile that could melt the audience.<br />
<br />
I feel bliss just by looking at her. She's just too cute to be true. It wasn't just the normal guys, even the class president, Morita, the one who kept a serious, no-nonsense face even when listening to jokes, was squinting with a slight sinful look in his eyes. As for the girls, they all gave her looks of respect and admiration that were devoid of any traces of jealousy. I guess the smile of an angel would be what Haruka has on her face right now.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, her eyes, with pupils as clear as the water from the Alps, locked onto mine. When she caught me looking, she smiled and waved at me discreetly. I could feel that at this moment her smile was more affectionate than usual, different from the smile that she gave to her other classmates.<br />
<br />
Mm, she's indeed a cute girl.<br />
<br />
I couldn't help but show a smile.<br />
<br />
Not too long ago, this kind of situation would have been like a red pig flying on a plane, something that would never have happened to us. The "not too long ago" in question, was the time before I knew of Nogizaka Haruka's secret, because before I found out about her secret, Nogizaka Haruka and I were just normal classmates--- And she was the school idol, while I was just an average student--- that never even had a single real conversation before.<br />
<br />
I thought about how we began.<br />
<br />
It was only three months ago, but looking back now, it feels as though it happened a very long time ago. Maybe it's because we've spent so much time together in the three months that we've known each other.<br />
<br />
That's right.<br />
<br />
Our relationship started from that incident in the school library during after school hours.<br />
<br />
That is, the incident that happened was the day I found out about Nogizaka Haruka's secret.<br />
<br />
From that day onwards, I waved goodbye to my plain school life to begin the subtle and exquisite relationship between Haruka and I.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
That is, Nogizaka Haruka's Secret!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
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|-<br />
| Back to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1_Illustrations|Illustrations]]<br />
| Return to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Shissou_Suru_Shishunki_no_Parabellum:Volume1_Prologue&diff=304824Shissou Suru Shishunki no Parabellum:Volume1 Prologue2013-11-25T23:07:29Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Prologue */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Prologue ==<br />
<!--PAGE6--><br />
The members of the Kido High School movie club have two things in common with each other.<br />
<br />
The first thing they have in common is that they all bare some sort of emotional scar.<br />
<br />
The club president Nikaidou Yuuki made a suicide attempt after being bullied for a long time in elementary and middle school. The vice president Kudou Ozuma committed adultery with a married woman when he was a middle school student and it became a big problem. As for the female member Hasegawa Shiho, her older brother was killed by a serial killer. At the end of Ijuuin Mutsumi's love, which could not be spoken of to anyone at all, she lost everything and started to freeze to death in the midst of the snow.<br />
<br />
And it could be said that the second thing they all have in common is <Parabellum>.<br />
<br />
<center><nowiki>*</nowiki></center><br />
<br />
Two boys were looking down on the Kido High School building. The boys were standing on top of the installed water service tank on the rooftop of an apartment house. Even though the wind was also strong at this unstable place, they didn’t lose their balance at all. They also don’t have any fear of heighs.<br />
<br />
Both of the boys were wearing uniforms from a different high school. <br />
<br />
<!--PAGE7--><br />
It’s the time when twilight has begun to wrap up the town in dim light.<br />
<br />
“Is that Kido High School?”<br />
<br />
One of the boys starts talking.<br />
<br />
“Yeah.”<br />
<br />
The other boy nods.<br />
<br />
“The <Flight> that centres on Nikaidou Yuuki should exist.”<br />
<br />
“While the enemy is unable to form his <Element>, we should finish him off.”<br />
<br />
“Understood, partner.”<br />
<br />
The boys jump off from the top of the water service tank.<br />
<br />
They fall straight onto the ground, jumping down dozens of metres without stopping. Under normal circumstances, if they jumped from where they were now they would end up dead, but despite the fall from the 20-floor apartment house, they land casually. Also, a loud sound isn’t made. It was an unnatural landing like they were manipulating gravity.<br />
<br />
The two boys are also <Parabellum><br />
<br />
──To begin with, what is <Parabellum>?<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Back to [[Shissou Suru Shishunki no Parabellumi:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
| Return to [[Shissou Suru Shishunki no Parabellum|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[Shissou Suru Shishunki no Parabellum:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Mimizuku_to_Yoru_no_Ou:_Prologue&diff=304186Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Prologue2013-11-23T19:28:38Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Prologue - The Forest of Night */</p>
<hr />
<div>==Prologue - The Forest of Night==<br />
<br />
<br />
The wind wound its way through the trees, cutting through the air like a scythe, making Mimizuku's heart seem cold with fear. The heaviness that could be felt in the surrounding could be described in one word: darkness. However, it was not complete darkness. The gaping wide moons hovering in the night sky above seemed almost too bright, as if it were a lie. But their moonlight made the colors in the darkness glow more richly. In the day, the forest was a luxuriant green, but in the darkness it seemed as though it were squirming about, like wriggling tentacles tangled amongst each other.<br />
<br />
"--Ugh!"<br />
<br />
Mimizuku let out a yelp as she felt a sharp pain. Looking at the back of her hand, she saw a red horizontal line running through it. She had been cut. Her bare feet and shoulders also had numerous wounds crisscrossing through them. <br />
<br />
"Ehehe..."<br />
<br />
Mimizuku laughed faintly and licked the back of her hand. She tasted blood. It had a salty tinge to it when it touched her tongue, but then turned dimly sweet.<br />
''Human skin is kind of yummy'', Mimizuku thought. ''I wonder if it would be nice to eat.''<br />
As she thought to herself, the trees and leaves of the forest swept across her skin and opened up new wounds.<br />
<br />
''Having all these cuts makes me feel so warm.''<br />
<br />
She was happy. After all, it was better to be warm than cold. ''It's okay. It's okay.''<br />
<br />
At that moment, a quick gust blew, and Mimizuku's brittle hair rustled like withered grass. It was a strange wind. Though it caused her short hair to dance about, the leaves of the trees did not make any sound at all. With sanpaku<ref>Sanpaku: Literally "three whites." Check [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanpaku here] for more information.</ref> eyes and pupils like pebbles of coal, she looked upwards toward the direction of the wind.<br />
<br />
''Those moons...''<br />
<br />
There they both were, a perfect pair.<br />
<br />
Ripping massive holes through the heavens, they seemed like a pair of eyes themselves. <br />
<br />
They stared at Mimizuku.<br />
<br />
Looking up through the forest, Mimizuku wondered what they would look like from the top of a tree. <br />
<br />
''They're so pretty.''<br />
<br />
She felt a shiver down her spine. Magnificent. If she were any shorter, she wouldn't have been able to see them at all. Despite this, the poor view she had of them now was enough to paralyze her. Mimizuku lifted her cheeks with her hands and gave a little chuckle. It was almost like a handsome guy was gazing upon her. But it wasn't a man.<br />
<br />
''Not a human, it's different. Different from a human... Well, whatever it is, I hope it's something that would eat me.''<br />
<br />
She lifted her hand and tried to touch the moons, but there was no way she could reach. It was okay though, because the moons were places no human could reach.<br />
<br />
"Hey, up there, you pretty moons!" Mimizuku screamed as loud as her tiny lungs could muster.<br />
<br />
"Can you... won't you eat me...?!"<br />
<br />
The two moons began to sway back and forth. Mimizuku's heart began to beat faster.<br />
<br />
"Leave, human."<br />
<br />
A resonant, thunderous voice shook the darkness to its roots.<br />
<br />
Hearing the voice made Mimizuku happy, and she made a large, cheeky grin.<br />
<br />
''I'm so happy'', she thought.<br />
<br />
"Leave. I dislike humans."<br />
<br />
Dislike. Hate. It hates humans. ''We'll get along''. <br />
<br />
Even though she had the body of a human, Mimizuku hated humans as well. The moons, the lake, the acorns among other things, she hated them too, but not nearly as much as the humans.<br />
<br />
"It's alright! I'm different from a human."<br />
<br />
She opened her arms out as wide as she could. The shackles chained to her wrists jangled as she did.<br />
<br />
"I'm livestock! So eat me!" Mimizuku said, making another wide, cheeky grin.<br />
The darkness whispered, and the moons twinkled.<br />
<br />
<references/><br />
<noinclude><br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"<br />
|-<br />
| Return to [[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou|Main Page]]<br />
| Forward to [[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 1|Chapter 1]]<br />
|-<br />
|}<br />
</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Mimizuku_to_Yoru_no_Ou&diff=303737Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou2013-11-22T11:57:08Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[Image:MimizukutoYorunoOuCover.png|thumb|Cover]]<br />
<br />
Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou (ミミズクと夜の王 ''Mimizuku and the King of Night'') is a light novel by Kougyoku Izuki, and happens to be her first work. It won the Grand Prize in the 13th Dengeki Novel Contest. The book is a stand-alone work, but the author has also written a continuation volume entitled Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi (毒吐姫と星の石 ''The Poison-Breathing Princess and the Star Stone'').<br />
<br />
<br />
The ''Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou'' series is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Mimizuku_to_Yoru_no_Ou_~Brazilian_Portuguese~|Portuguese (Portuguese)]]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
<br />
Mimizuku, a small girl with chains on her wrists and ankles and the numbers "332" branded onto her forehead, wanders into the Forest of Night seeking to be eaten by a monster. However, when the ruler of the monsters, the mysterious and beautiful "King of Night," refuses to eat her, she tries to formulate a way to convince him otherwise.<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
=== [[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Registration Page|Registration]]===<br />
<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*17 April 2011<br />
**Project complete<br />
*19 March 2011<br />
**Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou project officially underway<br />
==''Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou'' by Kougyoku Izuki==<br />
<br />
===Mimizuku and the King of Night ([[Mimizuku and the King of Night: Volume|Full Text]] - [http://www.mediafire.com/?87y4mgh2xbkiixq PDF] - [http://kylechong.com/misc/epub/Mimizuku%20and%20the%20King%20of%20Night.epub EPUB])===<br />
<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Prologue|Prologue - The Forest of Night]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Suicidal Mimizuku and the Human-Hating King of Night]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Threshold to Blessings]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Purgatory Flowers]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Deliverance]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - Gentle Lapse]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - Seal of the King of Night]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 7|Chapter 7 - Knight and Maiden]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Chapter 8|Chapter 8 - Deliverance II]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Epilogue|Epilogue - Mimizuku and Fukurou]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Author's Word|Author's Word - What Lies Beyond Prayers]]<br />
::*[[Mimizuku to Yoru no Ou: Commentary|Commentary /Hiro Arikawa]]<br />
<br />
==''Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi'' by Kougyoku Izuki==<br />
===The Poison-Breathing Princess and the Star Stone===<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Prologue|Prologue - The Temple of Stars]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 1|Chapter 1 - The Abandoned Child Erza]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 2|Chapter 2 - The Mute Princess's Wedding]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 3|Chapter 3 - Dinner and Chalices]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 4|Chapter 4 - Goodbye, Prince]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 5|Chapter 5 - Vion's Poison-Breather]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 6|Chapter 6 - The Night the Castle Fell]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 7|Chapter 7 - Good News on Bare Feet]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Chapter 8|Chapter 8 - About Stars and Divine Destiny]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Epilogue|Epilogue - The Poison-Breathing Princess and the Aberrant King]]<br />
::*[[Dokuhakihime to Hoshi no Ishi: Author's Word|Author's Word - Halfway Down this Long Road]]<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
:* [[User:Amazing Buffalo|Amazing Buffalo]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
[[username:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
All editors who speak English proficiently are welcome.<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
* ミミズクと夜の王, ISBN 978-4840237154, February 2007<br />
* 毒吐姫と星の石, ISBN 978-4048700580, 10 November 2010<br />
<br />
[[Category:Dengeki Bunko]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Haken_no_Kouki_Altina&diff=303735Haken no Kouki Altina2013-11-22T11:50:17Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:ALTINA v01 cover.jpg|thumbnail|right|250px]]<br />
'''Haken no Kouki Altina''' (覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ), also known as '''Altina the Sword Princess''', is a light novel series written by ''Yukiya Murasaki'' and illustrated by ''himesuz''.<br />
<br />
<br />
The Haken no Kouki Altina is also available in the following languages:<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina PL|Polski (Polish)]]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Story Synopsis==<br />
Regis is an incapable soldier, bad at both sword mastery and archery, who only reads books. He meets a girl at the remote region where he was transferred to. Altina, the red-haired and crimson-eyed princess who wields the supreme ruler’s sword. She was appointed to become the commander of the remote region's army despite being fourteen years old, simply for being the Emperor's illegitimate child. However, she is holding onto her big dream without being depressed in the environment she is in. “I trust you.” Regis, who was sought from her as a tactician, stands up to the obstacles together with her. The military fantasy interweaved by the bibliophagic boy and the princess with the supreme ruler’s sword.<br />
<br />
(''Story Synopsis taken from Volume 1 cover.'')<br />
<br />
==Series Information==<br />
*Genre: Fantasy<br />
*Original Title: Haken no Kouki Aruthiina (覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ)<br />
*Author: Yukiya Murasaki (むらさき ゆきや)<br />
*Illustrator: himesuz<br />
*Series Status: Ongoing<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
===[[Haken no Kouki Altina Registration Page|Registration Page]]===<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[Haken no Kouki Altina Registration Page|register]] the chapters they want to work on.'''<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the Haken no Kouki Altina's project guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina: Names and Terminology Guidelines]]<br />
*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Names and Terminology Guideline|Project specific Guidelines: Names and Terminology]] <br />
'''All edited translations are to be in British English. However, there will be frequent use of French language.'''<br />
<br />
===Feedback===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the series, why don't you tell us in this [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=6004 forum]'''<br />
<br />
==Updates==<br />
*August 12, 2013 - Teaser created (Chapter 1)<br />
*August 23, 2013 - Project page created<br />
*August 24, 2013 - Upgraded to Full Project<br />
<br />
<br />
==Haken no Kouki Altina series by Yukiya Murasaki==<br />
<br />
===Volume 1===<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Chapter 1|Chapter 1: The Girl with Red Hair and Crimson Eyes]]<br />
:*[[Haken no Kouki Altina:Volume 1 Chapter 2|Chapter 2: Promise at Dawn]](2/12)<br />
:*Chapter 3<br />
:*Chapter 4<br />
:*The World of Haken no Kouki Altina<br />
:*Afterword<br />
<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
:*Project Administrator:<br />
:*Project Supervisor:<br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
:*[[User:Code-Zero|Code-Zero]]<br />
<br />
===Editors===<br />
:*[[User:Misogi|Misogi]] (French Proofreader & Editor)<br />
:*[[User:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]] (English proofreader and editor)<br />
<br />
==Series Overview==<br />
<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina I 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ I (October 29, 2012)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina II 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ II (February 28, 2013)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina III 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ III (June 29, 2013)<br />
*Haken no Kouki Altina IV 覇剣の皇姫アルティーナ IV (October 30, 2013)<br />
<br />
[[Category:Famitsu Bunko]]<br />
[[Category:Genre - Action]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=303662ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-22T02:17:00Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than going alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my cloths. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time in outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else that might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not clearly be seen, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanishes while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name, or even write it in on the hull but, to me, any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place but, perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship was now remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship but, I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, It is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was already arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank but, Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away, seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place where the surrounding area contained no people and remove myself to it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I likely would not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway, I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such as fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However, when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side but, while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into a complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force but, my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while, my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
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| Forward to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_1|Part 4]]<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=303661ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-22T02:14:14Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than going alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my cloths. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time on outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not clearly be seen, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanishes while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name, or even write it in on the hull but, to me, any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place but, perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship was now remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship but, I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, It is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was already arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank but, Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away, seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place where the surrounding area contained no people and remove myself to it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I likely would not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway, I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such as fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However, when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side but, while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into a complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force but, my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while, my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=303660ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-22T02:12:59Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my clothing. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time on outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not clearly be seen, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanishes while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name, or even write it in on the hull but, to me, any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place but, perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship was now remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship but, I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, It is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was already arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank but, Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away, seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place where the surrounding area contained no people and remove myself to it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I likely would not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway, I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such as fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However, when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side but, while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into a complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force but, my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while, my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
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| Forward to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_1|Part 4]]<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_3&diff=303659ShinSekai Yori:Part 3 Chapter 32013-11-22T02:12:16Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Chapter 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Chapter 3 ==<br />
<br />
I don't remember very well how I was able to calm Maria down after that. At any rate, it was necessary to explain in great detail how Shun was not in any immediate danger. I was not blessed with a talent for lying like Satoru, but It must be that as they say "necessity is the mother of invention".<ref>'''Necessity is the mother of invention''' - This phrase does not suit the situation as well as it might, but is by far the closest thing available in English. The Japanese is 窮すれば通ずる with a literal meaning something along the lines of 'Hardship/Perplexity leads to Understanding.'</ref> Everyone promised to go look for Shun the next morning and, somehow, we were able to send Maria back home.<br />
<br />
I understood that rather than alone, going with two people is more reassuring. However, from the perspective that coming back alive was not certain, I could not go so far as to compromise the life of a good friend.<br />
<br />
After seeing her off, I quickly changed my clothing. I put a wind blocking jacket on over a sweater and tied my hair back with a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrette barrette]. Having spent much time on outdoor activities, I had traveling supplies such as a compass and first aid supplies such as bandages and salves ready to go. After cramming all of it into my backpack, The idea suddenly hit me to wear the protective charm I had received from Shun.<br />
<br />
I secretly left through the window and across the roof. Levitation like Maria's was something I was still not capable of. While reciting my Mantra within my mouth, I resolutely leapt. The instant I invoked my ''Jyuryoku'', the air resistance became viscous like that of water, suddenly reducing my body's momentum. It was a feeling like that of falling in a dream. As I came to the ground, I was unable to maintain my balance, and though it gave me a chill, I was relieved that my leg was not seriously injured.<br />
<br />
I could not allow myself to hesitate. Quickly standing up, I suppressed the sound of my footsteps as I turned to the back of the house. Promptly setting my boat loose from the mooring post, I proceeded into the pitch dark waterway. At first I made the utmost effort not to make a sound. But once I considered myself far enough from the house, I cruised along at full speed.<br />
<br />
I was by no means sure that I would make it in time. On the contrary, despite having a limited field of vision, I was moving at a speed so excessive that, if I made even a tiny mistake in handling the boat with my ''Jyuryoku'', there was a serious risk that I would crash into something and sink. <br />
<br />
Even so, I felt no hesitation. Whatever else might happen, I would save Shun. I would definitely be in time. There was nothing in my mind except the determination to make it in time.<br />
<br />
While gliding across the top of the dark waterway, I was suddenly hit with a strange feeling of deja vu.<br />
<br />
It was back in the first day of summer camp.<br />
At the time when I was alone with Shun riding a canoe at night. Because Shun had suppressed the waves, the river surface reflected all the stars in the heavens like the surface of a pitch black mirror.<br />
<br />
As Shun accelerated the Hakuren VI again, the starry sky broke into countless fragments, melting away on the waves.<br />
<br />
The river current and the scenery on both sides could not clearly be seen, vaguely melting into the darkness. In this way, the sensation of speed completely vanishes while moving. That is exactly how it now is with my boat. <br />
<br />
I gave my own boat the same name as the canoe we had at that time, Hakuren VI. I could not register it with the same name, or even write it in on the hull but, to me, any name other than "Hakuren No.VI" was unthinkable.<br />
<br />
Because I had left at a speed bordering on the limits of common sense, I arrived at the junction of the waterway to Matsukaze village in no time. I temporarily stopped the boat. During the day, several ships had been keeping watch over this place but, perhaps because it was already close to midnight, only a single ship was now remained here. A watch fire was burning atop the ship but, I could see no sign of any people.<br />
<br />
I did not have the time to take a detour by land as we had during the day. There was no choice but to break through here. Once more, I slowly began to advance. Concentrating every ounce of my ''Jyuryoku'', I devoted myself entirely to erasing the sound of my wake. The Hakuren VI advancing as though gliding on the light, passed below the entry prohibited rope.<br />
<br />
If someone on the ship showed their face now, everything would be over.<br />
<br />
I held my breath until I was confident that Hakuren VI's shape had completely sunk away into the darkness from that vantage point.<br />
<br />
Those on the guard boat probably assumed that no one would even try to violate the ban and enter Matsukaze village. Were that not the case, It is certain that breaking through the watch point so easily would not have been possible.<br />
<br />
Quietly cruising along, the Hakuren VI soon encountered a second boundary, and passed below the Sacred Rope of the ''Holy Barrier''. At this location, no guard ships remained at all.<br />
<br />
Illuminated by the moonlight, I could see two large pine trees directly in front of me. It seemed I was already arriving at a place close to the central area. Peering into the darkness, I could make out the shadows of the houses lined up along the bank but, Matsukaze village, all of it's lighting having died away, seemed to have changed into a no-man's-land.<br />
<br />
I turned North, entering another waterway.<br />
<br />
I did not have a good understanding of Shun's exact whereabouts. However, I did have a rough estimate of what direction to go in. The location of Shun's home was at the northern edge of Matsukaze village. If I were to make a cabin in a place where the surrounding area contained no people and remove myself to it, there was a strong possibility that I would also avoid passing through heart of the village, or other villages where many people lived. If I had headed directly north, I likely would not have crossed the ''Holy Barrier'' at all. As far as the direction, I could get by as long as I had a compass. The problem however, was knowing how far to go in that direction. <br />
<br />
Having gone about 500 meters down the narrow waterway, I came to a stop. Coming across a small dock with quite a few boats present, I moored the Hakuren VI at post recessed into the wall of the waterway and disembarked. On the way, a splendid looking torch affixed to one of the ships caught my eye. Unlike the pine wood we always used, it was made from torn bamboo tied together to make a tube, and packed with old rags, straw, magnesium wire and such as fuel. Igniting it by ''Jyuryoku'', it lit up to produce a beautiful flame, suddenly opening up my field of vision.<br />
<br />
Although I was unfamiliar with the exact layout of Matsukaze village, and had only a rough idea of my present location, I continued heading North.<br />
<br />
Walking along the street, the things illuminated by my torch were literally in ruins.<br />
Only a short amount of time should have passed since Matsukaze village's residents had evacuated.<br />
In spite of this, trash and scrap were scattered about along the road and all of the buildings looked seriously rotted.<br />
<br />
However, when forced to pause in such an ominous neighborhood, I was quickly hit with an anxiety attack.<br />
<br />
Because the torchlight's intensity was too weak to illuminate the area completely, my field of vision was limited to a sphere of a few meters. The road continued into a field the end of which I could not clearly make out. On the other hand, the form of me walking along with that dazzling torch could probably be seen from as much as a few kilometers away.<br />
<br />
Feeling a sense of foreboding hinting at danger, with great effort I acted against my instinctive desire not to let go of the light in my possession. I wanted to use ''Jyuryoku'' to weaken the light enough to see the other side but, while brightening the flame or extinguishing it completely would be easy, dimming it while preserving a moderate amount was something I understood to be next to impossible.<br />
<br />
I picked up a withered pine branch that happened to be laying near my feet. With this I should be able to constantly maintain a small source of light. While thinking it would have been better to choose such a thing from the start, I extinguished the torch.<br />
<br />
For a moment, my field of vision was plunged into a complete darkness within which red and green scribble like patterns danced about.<br />
<br />
After that, I ignited the end of the pine branch.<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, was a large black cat.<br />
<br />
That is not to say that it was larger than should be expected. Just as Maria had said, the animal's body length was about that of a lion. It had an exceedingly long neck and limbs, and a relatively small head that was still about as large as a leopards. It's eyes glittered in the phosphorescent light at a height not particularly different from that of my own.<br />
<br />
Purring contentedly from deep in its throat as it approached, the black cat stretched up and took hold of my shoulders.<br />
<br />
In the time that I was taken aback unable to think, it bit down on my neck with its large mouth.<br />
<br />
The cat's fangs made the slightest of grating sounds. My mind went completely blank as though trapped by hypnotism, and I was unable to recite my Mantra.<br />
<br />
Was this, an ''Impure Cat''?......<br />
Fragments of such thoughts ran through my terror-numbed brain.<br />
<br />
I vaguely felt the sensations of its hot breath disturbing my hair, and it's drool sluggishly flowing along my neck. The ammonia-like stink characteristic of the felines made my nose curl.<br />
<br />
After that, I felt myself still beginning to regain control of my senses.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat's'' fangs tightened on my neck with tremendous force but, my carotid artery was not stopping. It was the anti-cat ''Good Luck Charm'' given to me by Shun. The sturdy collar of thick leather woven through metal hoops protected the blood flow to my brain, allowing me to avoid loosing consciousness.<br />
<br />
The instant I returned to myself, I reflexively muttered my mantra.<br />
<br />
I attempted to pry open the jaws of the ''ImpureCat'' that solidly gripped my neck. It seemed that its upper and lower fangs were held in place by some kind of lock joint jaw structure that would not easily open but, boosting my strength with the limitless power of ''Jyuryoku'', it came apart with a hateful sound of cracking bone. With the ''ImpureCat's'' shattered lower jaw dangling loosely below it's head, my neck was finally free.<br />
<br />
Taking a few steps back, I help up the flaming pine branch. Illuminated by the small flame, the ''ImpureCat's'' features were fully visible to me. Glaring at me with its large eyes, its throat produced a menacing sound reminiscent of that made by a snake. Quite a lot of blood was trickling down the Saber-Tooth Tiger like upper jaw fangs that had just been gripping my neck.<br />
<br />
I visualized two burly arms like those of "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E4%BB%81%E7%8E%8B Two guardian Deva kings]" in the air before me. With one arm gripping the ''ImpureCat's'' neck, and the other firmly grasping its body, they twisted it as though wringing out a towel. Its cervical vertebrae broke with a dry cracking sound. After a violent full-body convulsion, the ''ImpureCat's'' body became completely still.<br />
<br />
I sat down for a short while, my breathing rough. I was unable to stop the tears from flowing. I examined my aching neck by touch and, even that sturdy collar seemed to have been crushed. The deformed metal fixtures would not come unfastened so I forcibly tore it off using ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
After that, I finally forced myself to stand up and went over to confirm the ''ImpureCat's'' body. It was a perfectly matched descriptions of the ''TricksterCat'' passed down in schoolyard stories. Its body was approximately three meters long. Its slim physique was comparable to that of a Lion or Tiger with abnormally long neck and limbs. At a glance, its facial structure would have been identical to that of a house cat but for the mouth torn far to the back.<br />
<br />
I examined the fangs jutting out of its arching large mouth by touch. They seemed to be at least fifteen centimeters long. They had a rough texture like that of sharkskin, with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. The structure seemed such that they could normally be concealed by folding up into the upper jaw. One point in which it differed from the Saber-Tooth Tiger was that its lower jaw also possessed fangs of a similar length. Both the upper and lower fangs had rounded ends. These were not used to pierce the prey, but to hold the neck and apply pressure to the carotid artery, making the prey faint before killing it by strangulation.<br />
<br />
I could only think of one reason for a creature to kill by such a method. In accordance with the legend of the ''TricksterCat'' carrying off children, it would leave no blood at the scene, and by carrying off the victim's corpse, would eliminate all evidence of their having been killed. However I looked at it, I could think of no other reason than that the ''ImpureCats'' had been created specifically to kill humans.<br />
<br />
I vomited by the side of the road. Despite being this big, I nevertheless felt a physiological sense of disgust facing the fact that I had killed another warm-blooded creature. However, more so than that, I was undergoing a serious shock at the knowledge of this cursed living thing's existence.<br />
<br />
After walking for a little more than an hour, I finally arrived at Shun's home, which was shaped like the edge of a half-buried mortar. I had to hurry. From my chest to my underwear and even my socks, I was soaked with not only sweat, but the ''ImpureCat's'' sticky saliva. More so than the cold, I was bothered by the terribly disgusting feeling of it but, regrettably, I did not have the time to stop and dry myself off.<br />
<br />
Nearly being killed earlier had taught me a lesson, and I no longer carried a light. If ones eyes are adapted to the light, and that light is extinguished, ones eyesight is snatched away completely. This being the case, even if one can only see imperfectly, it is better to be adapted to the darkness.<br />
<br />
Though watching the compass intently to continue heading north, my confidence that I was going in the correct direction, came from the sight of a spiderweb that stood out in the dim moonlight. The mesh pattern was distorted, and at some parts, features resembling human faces and letters were visible. Though I did not know it at that time, in such situations, the part of the natural world most susceptible, where mutations first become apparent, is in the webs of spiders.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, starting near where I crossed the Holy Barrier, the deformation of the surrounding trees began to become striking. It was as though it were an area where strong winds blow all year round, causing most of the trees to twist and lean in a single direction.<br />
<br />
Starting a short while earlier, I had begun to be attacked by vague feelings of anxiety and discomfort.<br />
<br />
‘I want to turn back.’<br /><br />
‘Right now, I want to run away from here.’<br /><br />
That was the voice of instinct.<br /><br />
I felt that I did not want to linger in this place for even a single second.<br />
<br />
But, thinking about Shun, I desperately encouraged myself.<br /><br />
‘I must not allow myself to turn back now.’<br /><br />
The only person able to help him, was none other than myself.<br />
<br />
Somehow or other, I continued advancing. Upon closer inspection, the strangely twisted vegetation also served the role of guideposts. I had the feeling that, were I able to see the entire forest as a whole, it would be twisted into a whirlpool-like shape. If that were the case, Shun must be at the heart of it.<br />
<br />
The trees, countless tentacles possessing demonic octopus like silhouette were transforming into. I constantly crawl forward continuing, those tentacles as though beckoned to, hastened my steps.<br />
<br />
Without my noticing, a dense milk-like fog had descended upon my surroundings. Now, however much I might strain my eyes, I could not see more than 10 centimeters in front of me. I could constantly hear what sounded like a voice whispering in my ear. The wind sounded like a laughing voice from which I was sometimes able to hear words but, could never make out their meaning.<br />
<br />
The information I was receiving from all five of my senses seemed degenerate, becoming increasingly vague. Even the sensation of the ground beneath my feet became strangely soft, airy, and unreliable. Without my realizing, the compass's needle had begun spinning round and round in circles.<br />
<br />
Before long, my vision had become entirely ineffective. I could no longer even distinguish whether it was dark or light, and lost my sense of direction entirely.<br />
<br />
Where, exactly is this place?<br />
<br />
I was hit with an intense headache. I felt as though a vice were tightening around my head. Eventually, the act of thinking itself became difficult. I was unable to move from that spot. But now, even my bodily sensations seemed to be vanishing and, I could no longer even tell if I was standing or sitting.<br />
<br />
Where exactly is this?<br />
<br />
"Shun! Where are you?"<br />
<br />
I cried out in a loud voice.<br />
<br />
In the moment that my own voice reached my ears, my senses worked clearly but, immediately after became hazy again. In this situation, as I wondered if my mind had gone somewhere far away, I was able to hear a voice.<br />
<br />
"Saki! what are you doing in this kind of place?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. I'm not even sure where here is......"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, the mist that had been obscuring my vision disappeared as though somehow absorbed. While beneath my feet, the firm ground was restored.<br />
<br />
"Shun!"<br />
<br />
I could see a young man standing at a spot about 20 meters from me. For some reason, he was wearing one of the "Masks of Purity" worn by the ''Shinshi'' in the ''Tsuina'' ceremony but, when I heard his voice, I knew without a doubt that it was my dear Shun.<br />
<br />
"You mustn't come to a place like this. Return home, quickly."<br />
<br />
"No way!"<br />
<br />
I shook my head.<br />
<br />
"Have a look at this"<br />
<br />
Shun, pointed to the ground. At first, I could not see what he was pointing at in the darkness, but our surroundings began glowing with a faint luminescence, allowing me to clearly see the countless bugs wriggling about on ground.<br />
<br />
Every one of them had some remarkable abnormality. Various sized moths had wings reduced to withered networks of eye shapes, while their bodies were strangely bloated such that there was honestly no way they could fly. A ''TrashBug'' looked as though it were walking on stilts, random limbs having become absurdly long and, with the left side longer than the left, could not walk straight, instead going round and round tracing a large circle. Another bizarre case was a centipede. It's head and tail had been fused forming a sad looking complete loop. It's countless legs flailed about trying to walk, but could do no more than rotate around in place.<br />
<br />
"If you don't want to end up like them, get out of here right now."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
I firmly stated.<br />
<br />
"Give me an Explanation. What in the world is going on? I'm not moving an inch from this place without that much."<br />
<br />
"Don't be stupid!"<br />
<br />
Shun said sharply.<br />
<br />
"Stupid is fine by me. I came all the way out to this place for the sole reason of helping you. Along the way, I was nearly killed when attacked by an ''ImpureCat.''"<br />
I said in a choked voice.<br />
<br />
"You encountered a cat?"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I only survived thanks to the ''Good Luck Charm'' I received from you. But, there is probably another cat out there."<br />
<br />
"I see....."<br />
<br />
Shun said with a deep sigh. <br />
<br />
"I understand. 10 Minutes. You can stay here, but only for 10 minutes. I'll explain as best I can in that time. But, when that time is up, you must return home."<br />
<br />
Having no other option but to continue arguing here, I nodded in agreement.<br />
<br />
With that, our surroundings were suddenly bathed in illumination as though stage lights had been turned on. As I looked up, an Aurora appeared spanning the entire sky. Pale green light formed a shape reminiscent of an enormous curtain draped across the sky, while red, pink, and violet lights spread out above it.<br />
<br />
"How did.....? Shun, Is this your doing?<br />
<br />
I knew for a fact that the Aurora was a phenomenon unique to the areas surrounding the North and South Magnetic Poles. The details regarding things called Solar Wind and Plasma were beyond my understanding but, a stunt such as summoning an Aurora anywhere in Japan, let alone the Kanto region, was a feat no one but Kaburagi Shisei should have been capable of.<br />
<br />
"......In light of how you were attacked by an ImpureCat on the way, we should probably withdraw. Shall we talk in the bungalow?"<br />
<br />
Shun gestured to a small building standing behind him with his chin. I hadn't even noticed its existence until that moment. Illuminated by the dim light of the Aurora, the entirety of the cabin<br />
was strangely distorted, as though I were seeing it through a crude lens. Looking from the outside, one could easily notice the bent pillars and twisted beams. Furthermore, individual long pieces of hay from the thatched roof were standing on end as if to defy gravity, giving the structure the appearance of an angry porcupine.<br />
<br />
"How did this house end up in such a strange condition?"<br />
<br />
"Even this is merely what was left after my continuing attempts to restore its original form."<br />
<br />
Shun went inside through the distorted door. I followed soon after.<br />
<br />
"Ten minutes..... I should at least be able to suppress it for that long."<br />
<br />
Numerous ''HachiBalls''<ref>'''HachiBall'''[ハチ玉] : The 'Hachi' part of this word is written in Katakana rather than Kanji like the 'Ball' part, leaving its meaning deliberately vague. There are two common Japanese words with this pronunciation, 'Bee' (as in the insect) and the number 'Eight'. As the 'HachiBalls' buzz like bees and are about the same shape and size as a pool ball(as seen in the anime at least), it seems likely to me that the intent was to refer to both words at once, making a proper English translation a pain.</ref> that had been rolling about the floor rose into the air. Suddenly, the space around us was filled with noisy buzzing, as though we had entered a beehive.<br />
<br />
"What are these noisy things?"<br />
<br />
"There's no other choice. Just put up with them for a short while."<br />
<br />
Crossing the dreary room, Shun sat down facing a large wooden table. The tables corners were all warped, creating a terribly uneven surface upon which were 10 or so books and many sheaves of paper.<br />
<br />
"Would you like to sit down as well?"<br />
<br />
He said, offering me a chair sitting on the opposite side of the room.<br />
I shook my head, looking around at the room's interior. Everywhere I looked, wood and stone that should originally have been solid seemed to have become weak and flexible. Looking at it all was only getting on my nerves, and even my sense of reality seemed to be growing weaker.<br />
<br />
"Where should I begin, I wonder if that's okay. ......All problems, arise from the human mind."<br />
<br />
Not understanding what Shun was even talking about, I raised my eyebrow.<br />
<br />
"Out of the whole of the human mind, the thing called consciousness is like the tip of an iceberg. The subconscious portion beneath the surface of the water is so much larger as to be beyond comparison. As a result, the mechanisms behind one's own thoughts and emotions are beyond understanding by any means.<br />
<br />
"I didn't come here to listen to a psychology lecture. What I want to know, is what is happening to you."<br />
<br />
"That is exactly what I was just trying to explain."<br />
Shun said in a muffled voice.<br />
<br />
"Hey, why are you wearing that mask? Take it off. Won't you feel more at easy that way?"<br />
<br />
"No way"<br />
Shun said curtly.<br />
<br />
"We don't have time to worry about that. ......alright? However we might try, Humans cannot completely control their own emotions. Even if you achieved perfect control of your conscious mind, things completely unknown to you are still happening in your subconscious. Our Jyuryoku is the most obvious manifestation of this.<br />
<br />
"What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"When one initiates a physical action, there are several stages between picturing the action in the mind and it's actual occurrence. Motivation is transmitted from the subconscious, but before action is taken, it must pass through the domain of the conscious, allowing one to stop or correct the action in accordance with reason and logic. However, in the case of Jyuryoku, the impetus and implementation of an action can be said to occur almost simultaneously. Because of this, there is too little time to make corrections if a mistake is made."<br />
<br />
"But, don't all of us abide by the chosen process, calling a clearly defined image into mind, and then invoking Jyuryoku to put it into action?"<br />
<br />
"Even that image, despite having been clarified by the conscious, still contains elements shrouded in the darkness of the subconscious."<br />
<br />
I got the feeling that the pitch of many buzzing ''HachiBalls'' floating about the room had increased slightly.<br />
<br />
"I don't understand what you're talking about. Even if an image unknown to oneself exists within the mind, it must surpass a powerful restraint before its manifestation. If ones Mantra is not recited, Jyuryoku cannot be invoked."<br />
<br />
"You don't understand. However much rigid control we try to impose through the use of Mantras and (Hypnotic)Suggestion, Once a gateway is opened to the subconscious, leakage occurs without fail."<br />
<br />
"Leakage?"<br />
<br />
"Ah. ''Jyuryoku'', always leaks out to some extent. In some sense, we are constantly altering the world around us as our subconscious mind commands."<br />
<br />
"Such a.......!"<br />
<br />
I was rendered speechless. What a stupid idea I began thinking but, then realized I could not come up with any rebuttal. <br />
<br />
"Saki, for what purpose exactly did you think that the "Holy Barrier" existed for? Do you think that "Sacred Shrine Rope" will do any good against something attacking from the outside?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. What are you trying to say?"<br />
<br />
My mind had been through into a state of confusion.<br />
<br />
"The ''Holy Barrier'' was not created to deal with outside enemies, but those that come from within. The enemy in this situation, is our own constantly leaking ''Jyuryoku''. Considering ''Fiends'' or ''Karmic Demons'', what we truly fear is that which comes from within ourselves."<br />
<br />
Shun's voice was calm but, the ''HachiBalls'' that had been rotating in place began to sway irregularly within the air.<br />
<br />
"Of course, this leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is normally quite faint so, it isn't something one needs to worry about over short periods of time. But, if exposed to the thoughts of many people over a long period of time, the extent of their influence becomes unfathomable. That is why, no matter what, it must be directed outward."<br />
<br />
"How?"<br />
<br />
From repetition starting at a very young age, a fear of facing the outside world is inserted in our minds, reaching even the subconscious. This enormous image of a world of darkness, comes to resonate with the other dark space that exists within our subconscious minds. By creating a direct link between the subconscious and the outside world within the mind, leaking ''Jyuryoku'' is directed to the outside of the ''Holy Barrier''. The ''Holy Barrier'' is a mental tool that exists so that "Impurity", or Leaked ''Jyuryoku'', will be released outside.<br />
<br />
The things Shun spoke of were difficult, not at all something that I could easily comprehend.<br />
<br />
"......Then, what happens to this Jyuryoku that is released outside?"<br />
<br />
"It probably has a variety of effects on the surrounding area. But since no one has ever seriously investigated it, I can't say anything for certain."<br />
<br />
As Shun extended his hand, a large group of 'HachiBalls' slowly began patrolling the inside of the room.<br />
<br />
"But, I think that fact solves some puzzles as well. Minoshiro's for instance. A mere thousand years ago, nothing remotely like them existed. When considering the time scale on which Evolution operates, 1000 years ago might as well be yesterday. The Minoshiro's ancestors were perhaps, some variety of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudibranch sea slug] that lived in the ocean but, how could they possibly have evolved into such large life forms in so short a period of time?"<br />
<br />
"Are you saying that the ''Jyuryoku'' that leaked out from us, created the Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"Not just the Minoshiros. ''TigerCrabs'' and probably ''HayThatchers'' as well. I briefly looked through a picture book of the new life forms of the last 1000 years. Such nonsensically rapid acceleration of evolution seems to begin only in a very limited set of locations, around the edges of Holy Barriers."<br />
<br />
The things Shun was saying, were so overly extraordinary, that I was unable to suddenly believe it.<br />
<br />
"......However, shouldn't leaked Jyuryoku be no more than a collection of scattered thoughts? How could those produce something with so coherent and consistent a form as Minoshiros?"<br />
<br />
"In the Human Collective Unconscious, there exist a great number of things with similar forms as though born from a common template. In Jungian Psychology, these are called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jungian_archetypes Archetypes]. The Shadow, the Great Mother, the Wise Old Man, or the Trickster to name some examples. Many common characters can be found in legends from around the world, which is exactly the result the theory of Archetypes predicts. If you look into what kind of Archetypal influence the Minoshiro or ''HayThatcher'' might have been born from, you will find some very interesting things."<br />
<br />
I considered the things I had just heard, but was unsure if I understood it sufficiently or not.<br />
<br />
"I don't have any idea if that theory is correct or not. However, honestly speaking, I don't particularly care. What I want to know, is what exactly is happening to you!"<br />
<br />
Shun was silent.<br />
<br />
"Shun. You......."<br />
<br />
At that moment, something came waddling unsteadily towards us from a corner of the room. I did not recognize the thing at all as it first came into my view. I screamed in reaction to it.<br />
<br />
"It's alright. It's just Subaru."<br />
<br />
Shun went to Subaru's side and gently stroked his chin.<br />
<br />
"How? What was done to Subaru?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing...... I, truly, did not want to do anything."<br />
<br />
The ''HachiBalls'' went flying about the room as if they had gone mad but, became tranquil again as Shun looked up.<br />
<br />
"Do you understand. This is a result of what is happening to me."<br />
<br />
The entire surface of Subaru's back was covered in a hard carapace with spiny protrusions, giving him the look of some monstrous armadillo.<br />
<br />
"I can no longer stop the leakage of my Jyuryoku. In addition to that, it's grown steadily more intense and difficult to control. As a result of my subconscious running wild, abnormal Jyuryoku leakage is having a destructive influence on everything around me, often transforming things grotesquely. It's called Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome. I have become a Karmic Demon."<br />
<br />
"That...... That can't be true!"<br />
I cried out.<br />
<br />
"Terrible though it may be, it's the truth."<br />
<br />
Shun, while being careful not to touch the spines, took Subaru into his arms.<br />
<br />
"All of these books are Class 4. Every bit of it knowledge that should have been eternally consigned to oblivion. They're usually stored in a secret basement below the library for safekeeping. Your Mother specially lent them to me."<br />
<br />
"My Mother did?"<br />
<br />
"To acquire knowledge regarding the phenomenon of becoming a Karmic Demon, the only thing one can do is read these books. These represent everything we know about the topic."<br />
<br />
The stained covers of the tomes all had the brand indicating a Class 4 Document.<br />
The first type are marked "<big>訞</big>,"* meaning ''Doubtful Words.'' The second type, "<big>烖</big>,"* mean ''Catastrophe.'' Those most dangerous books belonging to the third type "<big>殃</big>," are considered ''Divine Catastrophe. Censure. Things that must thereby result in death.'' ***<br />
<br />
"In exchange for being allowed to borrow these books, I agreed to continue entering my own experiences. Before long, I suppose my name will be included within these as the newest case."<br />
<br />
"Don't say that kind of thing! Before that, a Treatment? What can we do to help you?"<br />
<br />
"A treatment for this, does not currently exist."<br />
<br />
Shun put Subaru back down. Subaru at this point waddled his way over to me.<br />
<br />
"It was at first thought that Hashimoto-Appelbam Syndrome might be connected to Schizophrenia but, that has since been refuted. The things that occur within the brain, if anything, seem close to some form of Panic Disorder."<br />
<br />
Shun's tone sounded disinterested, as though he were talking about someone else.<br />
<br />
"When a firm reality exists as a fixed thing, medical treatment is usually possible for delusions and morbid fears. But, in situations where reality itself is being transformed in accordance with the shifts in that unstable mind, it seems there is no longer anything that can be done. The boundary between delusions and reality decays in a sort of negative feedback loop, becoming a vicious circle. Moreover, all of this is happening at a subconscious level, so there is no way to deal with it."<br />
<br />
"Couldn't your Jyuryoku be sealed again?"<br />
<br />
"Sealing as we know it, only prevents the conscious use of ''Jyuryoku'', and doesn't seem to have any effect on what leaks out subconsciously. Nevertheless, to be sure that attaching psychological bonds wouldn't in some way reduce ''Jyuryoku'' leakage, I had Priest Mushin perform a sealing technique on me. In the end, It didn't seem to have any effect. My ''Jyuryoku'' is, how to say it... like a container with a broken lid that cannot ever be sealed again.”<br />
<br />
I was both terrified and amazed.<br />
<br />
"Then, is it possible that...... your Jyuryoku cannot be sealed again because, I made some kind of mistake in the method I used to restore it before?<br />
<br />
Back at that time, unlike Satoru, Shun's level of consciousness had not decreased, leaving him aware that he was trapped by hypnotism. Moreover, he had already remembered his Mantra.*** By releasing the forced seal under these circumstances, I may have completely annihilated the (Hypnotic) Anchor* that had been buried within his mind.<br />
<br />
"No. Like I said before, from the very start, we never expected sealing to be particularly effective. Saki. This isn't your fault."<br />
<br />
I broke into tears. I could do nothing but gently stroke Subaru's chin after he made his way to my feet. <br />
<br />
"10 minutes is almost up. It would be best if you left soon." I shook my head while still crying.<br />
<br />
"If the time period is kept short, I know that I can suppress the abnormal leakage for a while. It's somewhat simplistic but, if I devote every bit of Jyuryoku that I have at some task that requires concentration, things are okay. During that time, almost no aberrations occur. I am currently manipulating 700 ''HachiBalls'' in order to keep this from affecting you. However, I can only keep this up for 10 minutes, maybe 15 at most. My concentration is weakening as I tire, and I don't know when I will begin to loose control......"<br />
<br />
"No! I won't leave! I'm staying with you."<br />
<br />
"Saki. I, because of this disease, have already caused the death of both my parents."<br />
<br />
Shun's words pierced my heart.<br />
<br />
"My parents were trying to find some way to help me. But, there was nothing that they could do. I was trying to somehow suppress my rampaging Jyuryoku by pure force of will but, that turned out to be the worst possible thing to do. Eventually, the recoil that came was all the stronger for it."<br />
<br />
"Shun......"<br />
<br />
"I was thinking the house might be rattling and, the ground abruptly liquified, swallowing up each of the surrounding homes. What saved me, was probably one of my parents, using their Jyuryoku to immediately throw me out of the house."<br />
<br />
Shun, choked off a cry under the mask.<br />
<br />
"That's why, I want you to leave. I'm begging you. I don't want to watch any more of the people I love dying for my sake."<br />
<br />
I slowly stood up. Despair and helplessness weighing down on me.<br />
<br />
I, could not save Shun.<br />
<br />
I, could not do anything.<br />
<br />
I......<br />
<br />
Opening the door, I looked back at Shun.<br />
<br />
"Shun. Isn't there anything that I can do for you?"<br />
<br />
Shun shook his head.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, an enormous creature slipped past my side as it entered the cabin.<br />
<br />
It was a grey tiger-stripe patterned ''ImpureCat,'' significantly larger than the Black Cat I encountered before. Taking no notice of me, it headed directly for Shun while purring from deep in it's throat.<br />
<br />
While facing down its opponent with a sharp glint in its eye so as to render him unable to move, it simultaneously approached at a calm pace, projecting a complete lack of hostility by the sound from its throat. Humans who simultaneously received these contradictory messages, become unable to quickly determine how best to react. This Technique that the ''ImpureCats'' make use of when hunting people was called a "Double Bind" (two fold restriction).*<br />
<br />
Having already once experienced this trick meant to throw one off balance, I quickly regained my senses. I promptly recited my Mantra.<br />
<br />
"Saki. Stop!"<br />
<br />
Shun's voice resounded.<br />
<br />
"It's alright already......"<br />
<br />
Shun's words left me unable to move. What should I do? There was no way that I could do nothing and just watch as Shun was killed. But......<br />
<br />
The 3-5 meter long 'ImpureCat' stretched up as though to kiss Shun, opening its large mouth. I began invoking my ''Jyuryoku''.<br />
<br />
In that same moment. With a dreadful howl, Subaru came charging out of nowhere.<br />
<br />
With barely a glance, the ''ImpureCat'' landed a single blow on Subaru with it's right forelimb. It's razor-sharp claws tore open Subaru's back, spraying blood into the air. However, possibly thanks to his hard spiny carapace, the wound was not fatal. On the contrary, Subaru's vigor did not decline one bit. He sprang back into action, aiming straight for the ''ImpureCat's'' windpipe. The ''ImpureCat'' made to dodge with an agility unfitting its enormous size but, Subaru managed to bite onto the leg of the cat more than 10 times his own size.<br />
<br />
Even now, I still don't know exactly what happened. Was it that the ferocious character instilled in Bulldogs by the accumulation of so long a period of selective breeding had not vanished after all? In truth, as far as I know, when barked at, or even when snarled or snapped at by another dog, Subaru always maintained a 'it's no concern of mine' kind of attitude. It would not even be an exaggeration to say that I had never seen him in an ill humor.<br />
<br />
Who knows what on earth arose in Subaru at that time in spite of this. How were his ancestors' patented blood stained combat instincts so suddenly revived.<br />
<br />
Subaru's appearance as he savagely rushed to attack his opponent, knowing the fight could only end in his death, was the perfect image of the legendary strongest fighting dogs that would take on bulls and bears far stronger than themselves.*<br />
<br />
Clenching his powerful jaws, Subaru swung his head back and forth.<br />
<br />
But no matter how deeply he might bury his fangs into his opponent's body, there was no way he could kill it like this.<br />
<br />
The ''ImpureCat'' cried out in pain. But, the cat created specifically to prey on humans, also had far more than average cunning. Using its bitten forepaw in conjunction with the other, it twisted Subaru, skillfully flipping him upside down.<br />
<br />
"Stop It!"<br />
<br />
At the same moment that I screamed, the ''ImpureCat's'' knife-like claws cut Subarus soft abdomen wide open.<br />
<br />
The series of events that followed this, were things that I would never have expected could happen in reality.<br />
<br />
It's limbs spread outward, the ''ImpureCat'' rose nearly to the ceiling like some great flying squirrel.<br />
While bearing all 18 of its claws and wiggling its four upper and lower fangs, it gave forth a furious menacing sound but, its body remained rigid as though attached to a cross.<br />
<br />
Countless gleaming and sparkling Crystal-like objects materialized in the area surrounding it.<br />
The crystals began adhering to the ''ImpureCat'' and, in a twinkle its body was entirely shrouded with them.<br />
<br />
More and more of the crystals fused together, forming a single jewel-like translucent form that began shining with a dazzling light.<br />
<br />
Then, abruptly, the ''ImpureCat'' vanished completely into thin air.<br />
<br />
The surrounding air swirled inward to fill the vacuum that had suddenly appeared.<br />
<br />
I wonder what exactly it was that Shun did. The only thing I can think of is that the ''ImpureCat'' was somehow whisked away to some other dimension.<br />
<br />
Jyuryoku that allows us to move objects without touching them may, in some sense, transcend physical law. However, in general, one cannot manifest any phenomenon that cannot be clearly imagined.<br />
<br />
Having become a ''Karmic Demon'', the door to Shun's subconscious had been opened. Even given so short a time, who knows what kind of unimaginable abilities he might already have learned.<br />
<br />
Returning to his senses, Shun knealt before the remains of his dog.<br />
<br />
"Poor thing......"<br />
<br />
Subaru had already stopped breathing. A large pool of warm blood spread out across the floor. The ''ImpureCat's'' claws had torn open the Bulldog from his heart to his abdomen.<br />
<br />
"Shun"<br />
<br />
I suqatted down by his side.<br />
<br />
"Subaru tried his hardest to save me. Despite the fact that there was no way he could make any real difference."<br />
<br />
Shun said in a subdued voice.<br />
<br />
"I've tried to leave him behind many times. But, no matter what, he found his way back. ......No, in truth, it may have been me that was lonely. If Subaru had gone away, I'd have been completely alone after all."<br />
<br />
Shun gently stroked Subaru's chin.<br />
<br />
"I should have made up my mind sooner. Because I dragged things out for so long, Subaru ended up in this sad state."<br />
<br />
"It's not your fault Shun."<br />
<br />
I said with all of my might.<br />
<br />
"Even that cat didn't really do anything wrong. It just came to complete my disposal as it was commanded. ......I made the decisions about the things that I need to do, just a little bit too late."<br />
<br />
Shun pointed at a cupboard on the edge of the wall.<br />
<br />
"There were a bunch of bottles full of pills in there. I received them just before coming here. They contained a mixture of various kinds of poisons. A somewhat cruel parting gift don't you think?"<br />
<br />
In which case, had the adults confronting Shun been urging him to end his own life? Even thinking that, by now, what sentiments had not already sprung forth.*** With so many overly Shocking things having happened in rapid succession, my sensitivity might have been dulled into a torpor.<br />
<br />
"I'm glad that you didn't take such things. It's best just to throw them away."<br />
<br />
"I took them."<br />
<br />
"Eh?"<br />
<br />
"However, they didn't work. I waited too long to decide. It seems that molecular poisons are easy to detoxify. But, I was quite surprised that even Arsenic had come to be ineffective.<ref>'''Poisons''' - If this doesn't make sense, the point is that the 'molecular poisons' are poisonous as a result of the way in which their atoms are arranged. Breaking these down into their (relatively)harmless component atoms would not be hard given what we already know Jyuryoku can do. Arsenic on the other hand is deadly both as an element, and in most of its stable compounds, making it much harder to deal with.</ref> It may be that my Shadow, my subconscious saying it doesn't want to die, may even have transmuted chemical elements.'<ref>'''Transmutation''' If you don't get it, or I used the wrong term, this implies that his powers appear to be capable of initiating and controling nuclear reactions within his body without harming him. o_0</ref><br />
<br />
I silently took Shun's hand between my own.<br />
<br />
"......seems like it's coming"<br />
<br />
Shun muttered alone.<br />
<br />
"What's coming?"<br />
<br />
"Saki. Leave this place, Quickly"<br />
<br />
Shun stood up, pulling me along by the hand.<br />
<br />
With a thumping sound, the house rattled violently. The ''HachiBalls'' which had at some point ended up rolling about the floor, flew upward, oscillating wildly, then clattered back down.<br />
<br />
"It's the same as that time. When my home sank into the ground..... It's laughable isn't it? it's almost too much like a ''Blessing Spirit''. This one however, far from granting a blessing, is instead a messenger of death."<br />
<br />
Shun pushed on my back..<br />
<br />
"Come on, Hurry!"<br />
<br />
I intended to resist but, Shun didn't give me any choice.<br />
<br />
"This time around, I'm going to end it. I've delayed too long already."<br />
<br />
Before my eyes, what should have been a solid earthen wall was flexibly deforming as it began to shake. Bubble like things appeared and vanished one after another. By sight alone it was an insane seeming spectacle. Once again, an intense headache began to come upon me.<br />
<br />
"Saki"<br />
<br />
Shun said in a peaceful sounding voice as he pushed me out the door. The 'Mask of Purity' he was wearing slowly began to melt, despite not even being warm.<br />
<br />
"I've always loved you."<br />
<br />
"Why are you saying something like that now? Shun! I......"<br />
<br />
"Farewell"<br />
<br />
In the next moment, I found myself floating several hundred meters above the ground. Beneath me, I could see Shun's bungalow illuminated by the moonlight.<br />
<br />
As far as I could see, the Earth's surface had sunk into a bowl-like shape.<br />
<br />
Facing the place where the bungalow has been, I saw a landslide like wave of earth and sand advancing from the circular perimeter. The sounds of every tree in the area being uprooted combined to form a single tearing sound like a low frequency vibration in the ground.<br />
<br />
This terrible end of the world like scene continued steadily far into the distance. I realized that my own body was tracing a large parabola as I flew backwards through the air. My jacket fluttered about me, caught in the tempestuous wind. My Barrette was blown off, my hair trailing me through the night sky.<br />
<br />
Striking somewhere and dying like this might not be so bad a way to go. Succumbing to such thoughts, I closed my eyes. But opened them again immediately afterwards. Shun had used the very last of his power to save me. <br />
<br />
I must live on.<br />
<br />
I felt the furious wind on my face as I reorienting to face forward but, still did not close my eyes. My tears were immediately blown away behind me.<br />
<br />
My landing spot seemed to be an open meadow. I wondered if Shun had aimed at this spot as he threw me free from so far away.<br />
<br />
Slowly, the ground drew closer before me.<br />
<br />
Slowly, as though still in the middle of watching some long dream.<br />
<br />
==Translation Notes==<br />
<br />
<references /><br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
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| Back to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter_2|Chapter 2]]<br />
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| Forward to [[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter_1|Part 4]]<br />
|-<br />
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</noinclude></div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=User_talk:Mytsy&diff=303371User talk:Mytsy2013-11-21T17:09:42Z<p>Shadowmaster850: </p>
<hr />
<div>Soul here came by to say thanks for translating danMachi so far the series looks great and since i know barely any japense i washappy to see you do it thanks- Soul<br />
<br />
Hi Mytsy,<br />
I was just wondering whether you'r going to continue on DanMachi translation?<br />
<br />
For now the answer is would be no,not due to exams or anything like that gonna focus more on translating Manga and Madan in my native language.I'm hoping Dammitt will take this series and to start translating this series.--[[User:Mytsy|Mytsy]] ([[User talk:Mytsy#top|talk]]) 12:09, 24 September 2013 (CDT)<br />
<br />
shadowmaster850 here I dont think I can start soon as well due to oncoming exams soon.</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Nogizaka_Haruka_no_Himitsu:Registration_Page&diff=303321Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu:Registration Page2013-11-21T16:05:59Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Volume 3 */</p>
<hr />
<div>To re-iterate the registration procedure:<br />
<br />
*"First Come, First Served": please register your intended chapters here<br />
<br />
*The maximum number of chapters you are recommended to work on is no more then half of any given volume<br />
<br />
*Maximum number of Translators per volume is two<br />
<br />
*Maximum number of volumes you may be active on is one<br />
<br />
*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).<br />
<br />
<br />
==''Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu'' series ==<br />
<br />
===Volume 1===<br />
::*Prologue - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 1 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 2 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 3 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 4 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Epilogue - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Author's Notes - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
<br />
===Volume 2===<br />
::*Chapter 5 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 6 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 8 - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]]<br />
::*Epilogue - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]]<br />
::*Author's Notes - [[User:Dragonst|Dragonst]]<br />
<br />
===Volume 3===<br />
::*Chapter 9 <br />
::*Chapter 10<br />
::*Chapter 11<br />
::*Chapter 12<br />
::*Author's Notes<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
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[[Category:Registration Page]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori_Registration&diff=303319ShinSekai Yori Registration2013-11-21T16:04:37Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Part 1 - Season of New Leaves */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
*To re-iterate the registration procedure: please register your intended chapters here.<br />
<br />
*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).<br />
<br />
<br />
::*Frontmatter - [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]] (~90% Complete)<br />
<br />
===Part 1 - Season of New Leaves===<br />
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]] - '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 3 -<br />
::*Chapter 4 - <br />
::*Chapter 5 - <br />
::*Chapter 6 - <br />
::*Chapter 7 -<br />
<br />
===Part 2 - Summer Gloom===<br />
::*Chapter 1 - <br />
::*Chapter 2 - <br />
::*Chapter 3 - <br />
::*Chapter 4 - <br />
::*Chapter 5 - <br />
::*Chapter 6 - <br />
::*Chapter 7 - <br />
::*Chapter 8 - <br />
<br />
===Part 3 - Deep Autumn===<br />
::*Chapter 1 - <br />
::*Chapter 2 - <br />
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]] - '''Completed'''<br />
<br />
===Part 4 - Winter's Distant Thunder===<br />
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]] '''Completed'''<br />
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]] (0% Complete)<br />
::*Chapter 3 - <br />
::*Chapter 4 - <br />
::*Chapter 5 - <br />
::*Chapter 6 - <br />
<br />
===Part 5 - World-Destroying Conflagration===<br />
::*Chapter 1 - <br />
::*Chapter 2 - <br />
::*Chapter 3 - <br />
::*Chapter 4 - <br />
::*Chapter 5 - <br />
::*Chapter 6 - <br />
::*Chapter 7 - <br />
<br />
===Part 6 - Beacon-Fire Burning in the Dark===<br />
::*Chapter 1 - <br />
::*Chapter 2 - <br />
::*Chapter 3 - <br />
::*Chapter 4 - <br />
::*Chapter 5 - <br />
::*Chapter 6 - <br />
<br />
<br />
<noinclude><br />
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[[Category:Registration Page]]</div>Shadowmaster850https://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=ShinSekai_Yori&diff=303261ShinSekai Yori2013-11-21T12:59:01Z<p>Shadowmaster850: /* Editors */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File: ShinSekai Yori Cover.jpg|300px|thumb]]<br />
<br />
新世界より (ShinSekai Yori) "From the New World" is a story by Yusuke Kishi consisting of 6 main parts. It has been printed both as a single enormous novel containing all 6 parts and as a set of 3, containing 2 parts each. It was first published by Kodansha in 2008.<br />
<br />
== Story Synopsis ==<br />
Direct translation from the back of the book:<br />
<br />
"In the Japan of a 1000 years from now. A humanity that has acquired the telekinetic power called 'Jyuryoku', while terrified of the legendary abominations called 'A’ki' (Fiends) and 'Gouma' (Karmic Demons), has built a peaceful society. However, a group of children previously under the school’s strict control, as a result of violating a certain rule, have suddenly descended into a nightmare! The false peace crumbles away, as a fantastic archive tells them the truth of humanity’s bloodstained history!?"<br />
<br />
== Series Information ==<br />
*'''Genre:''' Sci-Fi, Adventure, Supernatural, Horror, Coming of Age Story<br />
*'''Original Title:''' 新世界より<br />
*'''Author:''' 貴志祐介 (Yusuke Kishi)<br />
*'''Series Status:''' Complete<br />
*'''Compilation ISBN:''' ISBN 978-4061826601<br />
<br />
==Translation==<br />
<br />
===Format Standards===<br />
'''Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''<br />
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]<br />
*no special guidelines for now<br />
<br />
===Registration===<br />
'''Translators are asked to [[ShinSekai_Yori_Registration|register]] for chapters they want to work on.''' <br />
<br />
===Feedback===<br />
'''If you enjoyed the translation, why don't you tell us in the [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=5532 Feedback thread]'''<br />
<br />
===Outside Project===<br />
'''I've learned that at least one other person is working on a fan translation independent of this one. His/Her progress can be found [http://shinsekai.cadet-nine.org/category/news/ here]. He/She has completed almost all of Part 1 as of this post(April 2013) and seems dedicated to continuing. Given how well the Anime follows the novels, I see no reason for both of us to overlap completely by translating in the same order. As such, I'll be continuing from Part 3 Chapter 3 to the end before looping back to overlap what others have already translated of the start.'''<br />
<br />
- [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]]<br />
<br />
== Updates ==<br />
* August 5, 2013 : Part 4 Chapter 3 (45%)<br />
* July 22, 2013 : Part 4 Chapter 2<br />
* June 26, 2013 : Part 4 Chapter 1 <br />
* April 04, 2013 : Part 3 Chapter 3<br />
* March 16, 2013 : Part 1 Chapter 2<br />
* March 02, 2013 : Part 1 Chapter 1<br />
* March 02, 2013 : Project Creation<br />
<br />
==ShinSekai Yori==<br />
<br />
===Part 1: Season of New Leaves===<br />
<br />
*[[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_1_Chapter 1|Chapter 1 (Draft)]]<br />
*[[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_1_Chapter 2|Chapter 2 (Draft)]]<br />
*Chapter 3:<br />
*Chapter 4:<br />
*Chapter 5:<br />
*Chapter 6:<br />
*Chapter 7:<br />
<br />
<br />
===Part 2: Summer Gloom===<br />
<br />
*Chapter 1:<br />
*Chapter 2:<br />
*Chapter 3:<br />
*Chapter 4:<br />
*Chapter 5:<br />
*Chapter 6:<br />
*Chapter 7:<br />
*Chapter 8:<br />
<br />
<br />
===Part 3: Deep Autumn===<br />
<br />
*Chapter 1:<br />
*Chapter 2:<br />
*[[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_3_Chapter 3|Chapter 3 (Draft)]]<br />
<br />
<br />
===Part 4: Winter's Distant Thunder===<br />
<br />
*[[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter 1|Chapter 1 (Draft)]]<br />
*[[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter 2|Chapter 2 (Draft)]]<br />
*[[ShinSekai_Yori:Part_4_Chapter 3|Chapter 3 (~45%)]]<br />
*Chapter 4:<br />
*Chapter 5:<br />
*Chapter 6:<br />
<br />
<br />
===Part 5: World-Destroying Conflagration===<br />
<br />
*Chapter 1:<br />
*Chapter 2:<br />
*Chapter 3:<br />
*Chapter 4:<br />
*Chapter 5:<br />
*Chapter 6:<br />
*Chapter 7:<br />
<br />
<br />
===Part 6: Beacon-Fire Burning in the Dark===<br />
<br />
*Chapter 1:<br />
*Chapter 2:<br />
*Chapter 3:<br />
*Chapter 4:<br />
*Chapter 5:<br />
*Chapter 6:<br />
<br />
==Project Staff==<br />
<br />
- As far as I know, I([[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]]) am currently the only person working on this project in any capacity. I'd be happy if anyone else wanted to help out though.<br />
<br />
*Project Administrator: <br />
*Project Supervisor: <br />
<br />
===Translators===<br />
<br />
- [[user:Dusanh|Dusanh]]<br />
<br />
===Editors=== <br />
* [[username:shadowmaster850|shadowmaster850]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Hosted Projects]]<br />
[[Category:Genre - Psychological]]</div>Shadowmaster850