Editing Absolute Duo:Volume 2 Chapter 6

==Chapter 6 『Existence Transcending Humans』==

===Part 1===

“What, didn’t you go together with Miyabi and the rest?”

Even though I told her it's alright to head on ahead of me, but even so, I asked the silver girl waiting for me.

“It’s because I am Tooru’s <<Duo>>”

The bell rang like usual and Yurie nodded.

(Even though the <<Duo>> is not related in today’s <<Survive>>)

Although I thought that, there was no way I would not be happy if she told me that.

“Thanks. Let’s go then”

“Ya---. Okay let’s go. Miyabi and the rest are waiting”

Maybe it was the thought of wanting to hurry up to Miyabi's and the rest side, Yurie took my hands.

(Uu…………..this is somehow embarrassing……….)

Yurie walked while tightly holding my hand with her small hands.

After I took a small glance at Lealith for the last time, she was staring at me while placing her hands on her hips.

Once we entered the building and immediately descend 2 floors down with the escalator, we let go of our hands.

It seems the power supplies were off today so, after we get down 2 floors using the escalator which has become a staircase with big ramps, we reached a place called Nagisa plaza.

There is a path in the left side while there is an atrium from the first floor at the right side and a book store in front of us.

From this place which is located at the very east of the building, we headed to the meeting point we promised with Tachibana and the rest located at the west----- 

“Ah-re? it’s Kokonoe-kun and Yurie-chan. You two took your time coming down here?”

In the shadows of the shelves in the bookstore which I thought was empty, a girl-----Kibitsu showed her face.

“Just a little strategic meeting. How about you Kibitsu, why are you in a place like this”

“Uun, I am going to ambush her here. Look, my <<Blaze>> is <<{{Furigana|Western bow|Archery}}>>. I am confident in hitting someone else other than Lealith-chan if it becomes a free-for all fight”

“I-I see…………….”

Just how can she say that with a confident smile on her face.

“By the way Kibitsu. I have been wondering this since a while back but, how do you manifest the arrow?”

<<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> and <<{{Furigana|Western bow|Archery}}>>. It is quite different but, it is the same shooting weapon if I put it in forceful words.

I tried asking since it might provide a hint to a strategy.

(Is it the same with Lealith’s <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>………….?)

“It seems I can manifest the shape of an arrow using my mental strength by having the <<Blaze>> be the medium. The arrow is like the other self of the <<{{Furigana|Western bow|Archery}}>> main body“

“During the manifestation, I have to image the actions. It seems it is different for each individual but, mine is like the feeling of pulling out an arrow from the tube. It seems you can manifest it with just taking the pose if you are used to it”

“I see. That was knowledgeable”

“You are welcome. Alright, I have to go back to my stand-by spot soon. Kokonoe-kun, Yurie-chan, I leave my revenge to you two”

“I think there is something wrong, with having you assuming you already will lose…………..”

While making a smile while making a comeback, Kibitsu once again hid herself behind the book shelf.

“Well then, it seems we became a little late so, let’s hurry up and go to everyone”

“Ya---. Let’s do that”

Inside the A la mode building which was filled with people when we visited a few days ago.

It is now wrapped in silence now and it gives of the illusion as if we slipped into a ghost town.

The different situation where there is no one manning the shop even though it is opened makes that feeling stronger.

“To-Tooru-kun, Yurie-chan. Over here, over here……….!”

From far away, Miyabi was making small swings with her hands to us.

(I don’t know whether or not if she is appealing or not……….)

While making a wry smile, we meet up with Tachibana and Miyabi.

“Sorry. For making you guys wait………..”

“I-ya, I don’t mind. More importantly, let’s confirm the plan once more before it starts. First off, in the center plaza for ambush, at that standpoint in that location--------“

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 2 Non-Colour 8.jpg|thumb]]

Being the group leader, Tachibana looked at the building map while starting talking about the plan.

Several situations were assumed but, the basic plan is to drive Lealith to a corner with numbers.

After the confirmation was over, we confirm the actual building instead of the map.

The northern part of the A la mode which is the grounds for <<Survive>>-----

After going straight through the approximately 400 meter wide path which is stretched out from the east to west, there consists 4 plazas mid-way through.

The names of the plaza in orders are, Nagisa is the first eastern plaza right when we got down from the roof, after heading west from there is Yukari, the center, and Sora.

However, the path is not completely a straight path and each of the Yukari and center plazas has narrow roads to use for moving around.
The building has a 2 floor structure but, although this does not go for all the plazas, all of the paths connect from the 2nd floor and 1st floor through an atrium.

It is hard to move around in the 1st floor since it is wide but, since it is very disadvantageous if she attacks us from above by using the atrium, we chose to fight at the 2nd floor.

Around 1 minute after confirming the place I was stationed again, a building announcement that the <<Survive>> has started.
“It’s time. Are you all ready? I am counting on you all to follow the plan!”

[Aah!] [ Ya---!][U-un……..][Fuun, leave it to me]

Leaving approximately one person out, right when we made a strong nod to Tachibana (Tatsu was silent), a light bell different from the usual one I was used to hearing, *Karan**Karan* echoed.

Immediately after that sound disappeared-----

A gunshot echoed from the east side.

“It started huh………!”

Right when we were stationing according to Tachibana’s words, I could hear several more gunshots.

The sound was louder from the first and, I found out that she was in battle at the second plaza------the Yukari plaza. 

Even if they are not defeated by Lealith, it would probably take some time for her to come here.

And during the time I was thinking that.

“Let’s go there, catch her-----!!”

When such a voice appeared in a backward glance, the figure of the gold girl running here can be seen.

(I thought she would defeat everyone that was waiting for her before advancing but……….!)

It’s true that by Lealith’s perspective, she does not have to go with the opponents plan.

It seems the thought of her eliminating each one of us by order was mostly out of expectations.

(She’s coming……….!!)

They chased Lealith to the place we were waiting for her.

“Lealith!!”

Right when Lealith ran near me, I jumped out from the pillar’s shadow and stood in her way.

I was probably supposed to perform a surprise attack originally but, my role was to stop her.

And, what kind of method to use is up to my personal discretion.

Even though Lealith was making a stance with her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>, she stopped and slightly lowered her gun when she noticed I was the opponent.

“Oh my, why if it isn’t Kokonoe Tooru. Long time no see”

“…………..that’s right. I am surprised to see you again this fast”

I directed an ironic smile to Lealith.

“That goes for me too………….but this is good. I don’t have to go around looking for you”

After swaying her hair with her hand, Lealith aimed her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> at me.

“First off, I will test your true abilities”

In a situation where everything would end if she pulls the trigger-----

However, in a different perspective, you can say this is a one-in a lifetime chance.

This is the chance to practically use the plan to handle the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> we thought of using at the real scene.

Failure would mean instant retire-----

Although this has high risks, I have nothing else.

(-----it’s coming!!)

Lealith put in strength in the finger at the trigger and-----

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Ginn*!! Right after the gun fired, a metallic sound was produced.

(Success!! I '''''can do this at this distance'''''!!)

“…………not bad. Or is it just a coincidence?”

After I blocked the bullet with the <<Shield>>, Lealith stared at me.

“If you think that was a coincidence then want to try it one more time?”

“…………I’ll give up on that. I will accept you as the main dish. That is why I will let you go for now”

Right when Lealith was showing her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> rotating habit after firing, I raised the corners of my mouth.

“………no, I won’t let you get away. It is '''''our''''' turn now-----Tachibana!!”

“Leave it to me!!”

Placed between the atrium, Tachibana showed herself with her <<{{Furigana|Iron chain|Chain}}>> at the front shop, and the gold girl reacted by moving her gun at her.

At that moment, Tatsu jumped out from the shop at Lealith’s side this time.

“----!!”

Once Tachibana divert her conscious to her by showing herself, Tatsu would attack from a completely different direction.

This was the one of the many plans we prepared.

“It’s a simple but good method”

Lealith moved her sights to Tatsu and said that as if to show her composure.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Zan*!! The <<Scimitar>> that got swung down made a big crack at the path but, Lealith dodged it with a back flip and landed on top of the glass fence like that.

“Tatsu!! Swing to the side!!”

If he mows to the side then she might have to make huge dodge movements.

At the same time I told Tatsu my instructions, Yurie who was hiding behind the objects jumped out.

If it is on top of the fence then, she has to dodge by jumping away from Tatsu’s attack.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Ton*. Just like predicted, Lealith kicked the glass fence and jumped to the sky.

However, '''''she was heading towards the atrium.'''''

“Wha………….!?”

The height was easily around 5 meters until the first floor.

By any chance she fails in her landing, she might end up injuring herself but even so, she did not hesitate.

“It’s not a bad attack but, I advise to include the <<Exceed>> physical ability in the calculations”

Everyone became fascinated at the gold girl which has sunlight shinning down on her from the glass roof.

The appearance of an angle descending down was shown to our eyes and Lealith descended on the ground.

However, the group standing-by at the first floor did not end with being fascinated by her.

That’s because the hunter came down in front of them who are the prey.

Sword strikes, gunshot, shouts and the sound of battle echoed back.

Even after I ran to the fence and looked downwards in panic, the {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} has already entered the blind spot of the building’s cover.

(Damn……….!! I won’t let you get away!!)

I crossed the fence and jumped down to the first floor.

After landing and spotted Lealith, there was a 5 meter distance between us.

“Ah-ra, I won’t go easy on you if you chase me”

Lealith turned around and prepared her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

(Kuh, where is she aiming……..!?)

“Tooru!!”

When Yurie shouted and at the same time the bullet hit the <<Shield>>.

The bullet course slightly diverted and scratched my cheeks.

“You have good luck. Or is your luck included into your abilities too?”

“Tsk………….!!”

I decided that this distance is at my disadvantage and jumped into the shadows but there was no pursuit attack.

Instead, I could hear Lealith voice together with her footstep getting further away.

“Well I don’t mind. I will leave you as the main dish like I thought. Kokonoe Tooru”

After I brought my face out from the shadows, I saw the back of the {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} swaying around while leaving.

(She got away……………but, there was some profit)

---This was the first contact with Lealith in this <<Survive>>.

“Are you okay, Tooru”

“Aah, I' m not injured. But, the guys at the lower floor……………”

After I nodded to Yurie who easily got down, I send my sights to the guy collapsed frontward.

Looks like there was 6 people but, they all got defeated in that short time.

It even took 1 minute for Lealith to take on the selected 2nd year members who has 3 <<{{Furigana|III|Level 3}}>>, and it can’t be helped for 6 <<{{Furigana|I|Level 1}}>> to be unable to do anything in a direct combat.

I then heard a gunshot from the direction Lealith ran to.

“She is probably fighting with the group in the Sora plaza”

Tachibana with Miyabi behind jumped down from the 2nd floor path like us.

“Hyawa!?”

In spite of coming down timidly, Miyabi failed in her landing and landed on her butt.

Thanks to that her skirt got flipped up but, it stopped at a dangerous spot luckily.

“Ouch…….. ………………---------!!”

Although she frown her face in pain at first, she immediately noticed what is happening to her skirt and quickly fixed the hem of her skirt.

“Miyabi are you okay?”

“U-un. I am okay but………..errr…….di-did you see………..?”

After she extends her hand as she asked a question with a soft voice.

“I did not see so relax”

After I replied back while making a wry smile, Miyabi exhaled and took my hand before standing up.

Behind us, Tachibana muttered while lining up the people that collapsed at the wall to let them sleep.

“Because we did not stop her, this turned into an inexcusable result to them………….”

“We can’t help it. She was one layer better”

“Fuun. More important than that, shouldn’t we decide on the next objective for now on?”

Tora came down while saying that.

“Without Tatsu?”

“That guy is not suited for brain work. It’s probably best just to let him be in a look up there”

“I-I see…………..then let’s go with the objectives first…………Tachibana”

I asked the decision from Tachibana who is our leader.

“………her victory condition is to eliminate all of us. Instead of us moving, we should go with the first plan and wait here without moving------“

“Oi, Kokonoe!! Don’t let her get away so easily!!”

An angry shout mixed into our conversation from the 2nd floor.

When I looked up, Kigami and his comrades who were supposed to be camping at the Yukari plaza was there.

“That goes for you too”

There were not mistakes with what I said, since Kagami and the rest were the first one to be broken through like us, I got irritated because there was no reason to be scolded at. 

“The hell you say!?”

Kigami got angry with my reply and the atmosphere clearly got bad-----

At that moment, Tachibana and Izumi came in front of us respectively to calm us down.

“Sorry, Kigami. It is my responsibility as the team leader to be unable to stop her here. If you want an apology then I will apologize to you properly later. But for now, isn’t it decided that we repair the broken formation first?”

Kigami stopped his words when Tachibana lightly lowered her head.

In replacement, Izumi was the one who opened his mouth.

“We don’t need an apology since we got broken through that easily. More importantly, we are planning to chase her now like this so, if it is okay with you all, do you want to join in?”

“Izumi!!”

Kigami got angry at his partner’s plan.

“Maa maa, Kigami. Isn’t it okay. We are low in numbers anyway so, everything is okay if we go with this for the last”

He probably purposely did it to allow everyone to hear.

But, it might be because his natural virtue makes it hard to be hated even though he has that light feeling with him.

And since I dare not say that comment, Tachibana questioned him the words he said half-way through with her mouth.

“What do you mean that we are low in numbers?”

“Just like what you are seeing, 5 people got taken down when she broke through the yukari plaza. Thanks to that, most of the methods we prepared cannot be used anymore”

Now that he mentioned it, most of the people that I saw when I crossed by the yukari plaza at the beginning was eliminated.

“What are you going to do? If it is an okay then, it would be a lifesaver if you corner her from down there”

Izumi claimed the charge of the 2nd floor which has the lowest possibility of getting shrewdly attack from above.

Tachibana made a slight wry smile and nodded.

“I understand. We will be in charge with the first floor”

Alliance established.

“Don’t pull my leg, Kokonoe!!”

“Fuun. What a noisy guy……!”

Tora said that as if he was spitting and glared at Kigami”

“……………weren’t we supposed to ambush her again here?”

I held back his voice just in case to avoid letting it reach Kagami and the rest.

“I felt that the atmosphere would get even worse if I refused”

“…………..sorry for being bad at being considerate”

“Fufu, I don’t mind. More importantly, let’s move too to tell Tatsu about the situation”

“Aah, let’s do that”

Everyone was gathered once Tatsu came down and just when we were about to move, I recalled back the time when I confronted Lealith just now. 

“………………that’s it. Everyone, listen. It seems that plan to handle the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> works. But, it’s going to be tough if it is more than 5 meters”

“Fuun. Then the thing you have to do, is to enter a distance where the plan would work no matter what”

“That’s true; it is probably limited to close in the distance between her next time”

Tachibana nodded at Tora’s response.

“Well, it is a big gain just by knowing that the plan is effective. Next would be-----“

“Kokonoe!! Let’s go already!! I told you not to pull my leg!!”

A angry shout cut in our conversation again.

“Sorry. We were confirming on how to corner her.”

“………keh”

After Tachibana replied that while lowering her head, I saw Kigami spit on the ground.

It was quite irritating but, as long as Tachibana put a follow in, there is no way I could tarnish that.

“……………everyone, let’s go”

I held it in and pretend to be calm before urging everyone to start moving.

“To-Tooru-kun, can I have a moment…….?”

Right when we were running pass the center plaza, Miyabi called out in a soft voice.

“Ah…….it was scary right. Sorry”

“U-un………….”

Miyabi was scared of Kigami’s angry shout during the interchange we had just now.

After I apologized for that, Miyabi swung her head.

“Th-that one is okay…………..but that wasn’t what I wanted to talk about……… …………….. e-err, its about before. ……………yo-you really did not saw right?”

It seems she is still worried about the time when she fell down.

“If I saw then I would not be able to talk to Miyabi while remaining calm”

“Ah………..I see……….that’s good. Fufu………”

I relaxed a little because of the conversation that feels impossible to be happening in the middle of a practice match-----

The quarrel with Kigami left a slight irritation in my heart but, I felt it disappearing.

“…………Thanks, Miyabi”

“Eh………..? Ab-about what…..?”

“I just thought it’s great that Miyabi is here”

“Eh………..!? Gre-great………wha-wha-what do you mean by that……..?”

I only laughed back at Miyabi who was troubled.







We were at the big path connecting the center plaza and sora plaza. There was about a distance of 70 meters in between.

While hiding our body behind the stores located in between, we headed towards the 4th plaza----the sora plaza.

“Alright, Me, Yurie and Tatsu will head to the right side. Tachibana and the rest head to the left side while paying attention. Tora, you are the rear guard so be careful of your back”

Other than a big path that we were going to go through after this in the center plaza and sora plaza, there were small paths connected to it too.

If Lealith goes through there then, there would be a chance we would get attacked from behind so, the role person right at the back of the line is very important.

Tentatively, the small paths at the 1st and 2nd floor has Kigami’s group looking out but even so, I can’t say it is certainly safe.

“Fuun. You too, be careful not to get ahead of yourself and get shot straight on”

“None of your business”

“That goes for you too”

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Gon* we bump our fist together and scatter to the left and right path.

Both groups on the 1st and 2nd floor moved.

“It's quiet, Tooru”

The sound of battle has already stopped echoing and the building was wrapped in silence.

“Aah. Let’s go while paying attention”

If Lealith was defeated then, someone would probably shout in victory but, that is impossible.

If that is the case then, the chances of Lealith in a watch-out further up is very high; my nervousness got stronger even though I did not want it to.

I lowered my body and dash towards the store in front while bending down.

There was no gunshot.

I confirmed if there is someone in the shop after entering but, there were no particular problems.

After I made a hand gesture saying its safe, Yurie ran here first and Tatsu next.

Tachibana was ahead in the opposite side of the path while Miyabi was following her back.

Even though we crossed half the distance in the path, we could hear no gunshots.

(It’s about time she is going to snipe…………)

It was needed to be cautious of the stairs connected towards the roof at the sora plaza, Tachibana said this.

But, thinking about the charge immediately at the start, we can’t throw away the possibility of a charge attack.

Inside the oppressive feeling created by the nervousness, we slowly got closer to the Sora plaza.

“Tooru. Look at that”

Further up Yurie’s finger------there were 3 guys collapsed frontwards at the plaza.

On half of the stairs heading towards the roof, there were girls collapsed there.

While moving onwards with our cautiousness increased, we kept a look out at the shops while hiding our body-----

I got shocked when I saw a female Kouryou uniform.

But, the hair was black and was streaming down to the chest.

Near the girl with black hair, I saw one more girl leaning against the wall.

Both of them were hiding in the shop and probably got found by Lealith.

It seems there was no one hiding in the shop, and I send a signal to Yurie behind me saying it’s already to advance.

“Tooru. I feel something is strange”

“Aah, I think so too. If there is no movement until now………”

She is moving outside our expectations again.

That thought passed my mind and hesitation was born.

Hesitation corrupts the concentration ability and a chance will be born-----

That instant was targeted.

A sudden attack came.

“That is no good, Kokonoe Tooru”

The sudden call out was from a direction I would never expect.

“-----Wha!!”

When I looked behind, the black hair girl was preparing her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

“Hesitation in a battle which has already begun is forbidden you know. it would only make a fatal chance. Like this”

She threw away the '''''black wig''''' which was hiding her {{Furigana|blonde hair|Yellow Topaz}} and Lealith made a wry smile.

“I thought this was cliché but, it unexpectedly works”

The gun was clearly pointed at Yurie.

“Yurie!!”

The gunshot broke the silence and----

The silver girl dodged the bullet just right.

And at the same time, Tatsu roared and swung down the <<Scimitar>>.

---but, Lealith dodged the attack by jumping over Tatsu’s head, and the shelves got mowed down by the <<Scimitar>>.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Kurun*. Lealith rotated the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> in her hands.

“Tatsu, dodge it-----!!”

However, my shout was useless and the bullet that got shot again pierced Tatsu’s head.

During the time that giant body was collapsing from losing its strength, the gold girl jumped out the shop.

She then ran up the giant ball light in the middle of the path and jumped towards the 2nd floor path.

“Yurie, it’s amazing, you dodge that”

“Ya--. It’s because Tooru confirmed the counter plan was effective”

“I-I see…………”

I could only be shocked once I heard she used the counter plan meant for a <<Shield>> defense to evade.

“--------above…….!?”

The voices of Kigami group advancing in the 2nd floor falling into disorder from the sudden attack could be heard.

“Kuh………..! Like hell I will let you do what you want any more than this!!”

After I dashed out the corridor, I kicked the ball light and jumped up from the recoil before grabbing onto the glass fence surrounding the atrium.

After dropping to the 2nd floor, Izumi was down and I saw Lealith’s back while she was thrusting the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> at Kigami further ahead.

“Lealith!!”

“Oh my, why if it isn’t Kokonoe Tooru. You are the main dish so, please keep quiet”

“Sadly, I am bad with waiting”

“A guy that can’t wait will get hated by girls you know”

The moment Lealith said that and was about to put strength into her fingers------

“UooooOOOOO!!”

I shouted with a loud voice while closing the gap.

“------!?”

Lealith moved her sights in reflex, and her hands shook.

The fired bullet scratched near Kigami’s collarbone instead of his head.

Even though Kigami got blown to the floor, it’s not like this consciousness got blown away.

“Kigami, dodge it!!”

I shouted once more while swinging my fist targeted towards Lealith------the rose but, she dodged it.

However, since I swung it down in a manner of charging my body, I got between them with that momentum and prepared my <<Shield>> while covering Kigami.

“Kokonoe! What the hell are you doing!?”

An angry shout came from Kigami behind.

“What do you mean what………you are my comrade so-----is what I wanted to say but, my body moved on its own”

I did not release my sights from the gold girl while replying.

“You say your body moved on its own?”

“Aah. I refuse to see…….someone getting downed in front of me. That’s why hurry up and run away!”

That scenery from that day in summer carved into my brain moved my body.

Even if I know <<Survive>> is just a practice match, and no one would die.

“………..Damn it…………! Damn it, damn it, damn itt!!”

“------!? Kigami!!”

“Shut up!! Who the hell would run!!”

Instead of running away, Kigami prepared his <<Blaze>> and charged at Lealith.

Of course, Lealith did not stay quiet and prepared her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> before------

Shooting Kigami mercilessly.

“It’s regretful you couldn’t save him. But I am just getting started”

“………….are you planning to defeat everyone else first”

“That’s right. Didn’t I tell you that you are the main dish already”

I closed in the gaps between Lealith in one go while she was making a smile.

“I won’t let you do that to anyone else!!”

“How persistent. Please keep quiet”

Just like usual, Lealith rotated her <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> and pointed the gun at me.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>GiKiin!!* I blocked the bullet shot at my shoulder with the <<Shield>>.

“I won’t get hit that easily '''''in this distance'''''”

When she points the gun------expand the cautiousness to the maximum at the fire line and see through it.

It might be hard to dodge the bullet but, as long as I know the place where she is targeting then I can use the <<Shield>> to block it.

This is the counter-plan I prepared for the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

The drawback is, the more the distance between us keeps opening, any slight change in her gun’s angle would make a big difference and it would be hard to see through the bullet’s path. 

“Not bad……..!!”

After stepping in, I drive in my fist aimed at the rose.

Even though she blocked the attack with the gun’s body, I moved to combination attacks without making any distance.

(I’ll keep pushing her like this!!)

But, Lealith’s calm face did not break and right in the middle of continue handling my attacks skillfully----

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Kurun* she rotated the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> in her hands.

(………What is it!?)

Normally, I should be going for that chance but, my attacking hand got duller because of shock and questions.

Right after I thought the bullet shot in close-range got deflected by my <<Shield>>-----

She gave a flashy low kick like a whip to my legs that has stopped moving.

“Nguh!!”

Lealith did not relax her attacking hand and continued with a front kick.

Even though I blocked it with the <<Shield>> immediately, her goal was not to attack me.

Lealith kicked the <<Shield>> and use that momentum to jump behind and open some distance.

(Oh no, this distance is disadvantage for me………!!)

If she opens a distance of more than 5 meter, I will lose the ability to see through the fire line accurately.

At the same time with her firing, I jumped into a nearby shop.

“Fufu, it’s okay even if you don’t run away that pathetically. That was just an intimidation, so I did not aim at you. I already told you that you are the main dish”

“Kuh…………!”

While hiding in the shop’s shadow, it was in that instant I grinded my teeth knowing that I was being played around.

“Kokonoe! Let’s retreat for now!! You all too, retreat now and regroup!!”

Even though I could not see her, Tachibana’s voice echoed throughout.

Because of Lealith’s surprise attack, she probably decided our group situation cannot fight in cooperation.

Especially, after losing Kigami and Izumi, the remaining people group up at the 2nd floor became completely agitated. 

(I have no choice, I guess I’ll follow Tachibana’s words and retreat……….!)

But, during the moment I was about to retreat------

A silver gale ran passed me.

“Yurie!?”

Yurie’s long hair fluttered and she chased after Lealith.

“Don’t overdo it, Yurie!!”

“Nai. It is okay………!!”

I thought this decision was very un-like Yurie who usually fights in a calm manner.

“Ah-ra, you won’t run away? I was planning to let you all go though”

Lealith pulled the trigger while saying it’s a different story if she comes after her.

But, Yurie’s response was magnificent.

She dodged the bullet flying at her before kicking the wall and slashed with her <<{{Furigana|Twin blades|Double}}>> after closing the gap in one go.

However----

“Your movements are too honest”

“----!!”

Lealith went above that.

The moment the attacking <<{{Furigana|Twin blades|Double}}>> from left and right was about to cross------

The blades bounced off because she used the gun-stock to hit from below.

In that moment, Yurie became completely defenseless and------

<nowiki>*</nowiki>DoBo!!*Lealith’s knee thrust towards Yurie stomach.

Lealith then continued by giving Yurie a sokuto<ref group ="2F">A karate move</ref> and made her go flying.

“Ka, Haah!!”

Her small body slammed the glace fence and the stainless exterior distorted-----

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Kashaaan*!! The glass broke and Yurie’s body got thrown out to the atrium.

“How regretful, Yurie=Sigtuna. I expected you to be a little worth competing but…………….”

During the time the fragments of the glass and the {{Furigana|Silver hair|Silver Blonde}} was reflecting the light, the gold girl rotated the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>-----and pointed the gun at Yurie.

“You end up unable to be this girl’s power huh, Kokonoe Tooru”

“Yurie-------!!”

“……….This is the end”

A dry sound echoed and the moment the bullet was about to pierce Yurie mercilessly-----

“I won’t let you”

A shadow ran away with that small body.

After hanging the tip of the <<{{Furigana|Iron chain|Chain}}>> near the ceiling, Tachibana caught Yurie mid-air with the movement of a pendulum.

Tachibana then landed on the 1st floor like that and while carrying Yurie and running pass the ball light and decorative plants to block the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>> fire line.

“Kokonoe! We are retreating!!”

I immediately ran away from the spot at the retreat announcement she made again.

When I looked over for last, Lealith was seeing us off without preparing the <<{{Furigana|Gun|Rifle}}>>.

I could easily imagine her making a leisure smile as usual on that face.





After heading up slightly west from the 4th plaza----the sora plaza, we entered a store and I took a breather.

“Fuun. Looks like she isn’t coming”

“………aah, she probably let us go since it looks like she isn’t coming for us”

By now, she is probably chasing the 2nd floor group which ran away to a different direction from us.

(Damn it, she is one tough opponent, more than I imagined……….! Her close-combat is quite good and I would never have thought Yurie would get countered……….)

“Yurie, are you okay?”

“Ya, ya--……...my left shoulder hurts a little but, I am alright”

Yurie replied while staggering.

Behind her, Tachibana made a stern expression.

“………..what do you mean by alright when your shoulders are dislocated. Stay down until emergency treatment”

“Dislocation, Yurie………….! That is why I told you not overdo it…….!”

“……..Sorry”

Yurie became despondent at Tachibana and my frowning face.

“More importantly, we have to treat her shoulder fast. It would be nice if someone has bandages but, does anyone have it?”

“So-sorry. I did not bring with me……….”

Miyabi swung her head at Tachibana’s question and the other members swung their heads next.

“I will go find-------“

“No, I will go find some. Tooru, you go for a look-out”

Tora went outside the shop without even hearing my reply.

The moment he went out, [I won’t take long. Leave it to me] he said that.

While thinking this might be true, I made a wry smile and saw Tora’s back off.

“Thank you very much, Tomoe”

After a while, Tora found the bandages and brought it back and Tachibana performed the emergency treatment.

About the time she was about to take her clothes off, me and Tora went outside to stand guard.

“………..even if you are treated, please be careful not to force yourself”

It seems the treatment is over so I entered the shop and Tachibana was making a stern expression.

“Maa-maa, Yurie gets that too so you don’t have to say it many times……… more importantly, I have to thank you. Thank you for protecting Yurie, Tachibana”

“Fufu, protecting my comrades……..is…………na-tural………..”

At the same time I thought her voice was weak even though she was smiling--------

Tachibana staggered and droop towards me.

“Ta-Tachibana!?”

After I caught her in panic, Tachibana’s body relaxed and became heavy, and I noticed her breathing was wild.

“Oi, Tachibana? What is wrong, Tachibanaa, Tachibana--------!!”

Immediately, I found out.

There was a hole opened by a bullet on Tachibana’s uniform.

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 2 Non-Colour 9.jpg|thumb]]

===Part 2===


There was sound of a helicopter coming nearer from far away.

It was different from the one Lealith’s personal owns and was a giant tandem type rotor.

On the a la mode roof, Tsukimi Rito moved her sights from the helicopter up at the skies of Tokyo bay to the special monitor and muttered that.

“It’s going to be the climax soon”

40 minutes has passed since the commencement of the <<Survive>>-----

Almost every 1st year other than Tooru in the building has been defeated by Lealith.

“That time when silver hair was about to get defeated half-way, I seriously thought what was going to happen”

“If that happens, it would probably end without showing any good prospects”

While quietly gazing at the monitor, Sakuya made a bewitching smile and was damping her lips in the milk tea Sara poured for her.

“Oi oi, even if the silver hair is defeated, that <<Irregular>> is still left right”

“A <<Duo>> with only one wing will not beat her”

After replying her assertion to her rabbit ear wearing subordinate, Sakuya took another sip of the milk tea.

“………..in the current stage, the both of them are not showing any promises of winning her in the first place. Even if they are the same people that drove them away”

“Seriously, that is one unthinkable dryness from a little kid………….ah---, by the way, I am changing the topic”

“What is it?”

“Is '''''that''''' your invitee, director?”

Rito pointed to the sky and asked.

The giant wheel type helicopter floating up at the sky. It was something that could be seen at the bay coast from just now.

“At the very least, I don’t remember inviting them”

“……….that goes for me too”

The guy---Mikuni who has been keeping silent until now, opened his mouth.

“Fuu, how regretful………it looks like we have no time to see the long-awaited Climax”

Sakuya made a sigh before leaving the last part of the sentence and stood up.







Around 20 brawny men got off from the helicopter.

All of the men were in exaggerated outfits, they have a helmet that only shows the mouth part, armor that covers their chest and arms on top of their {{Furigana|battle suits|Body suits}}, and they were holding assault rifles in their hands.

“That is a team I have not seen before”

Mikuni said that after the men separated into left and right making a path without any useless movements.

Mikuni, who mainly uses various information connections, has all the special teams and organization in the world in his head----- but the men standing in front of him were unknown to him.

However, Mikuni and Sakya did not show any signs of discomposure like it were only natural.

Soon, there was 2 people walking through the center of the men in a relaxed manner.

One of them was like the men lined up from left and right, he was wearing a battle suit but, he was wearing a different helmet from the others and was exposing his face.

His age is probably around Tooru’s. It was a Caucasian teenager with shooting pair of eyes.

The other one was a lean old man dressed in white clothing. 

The color of the base of his white hair could not be defined but, judging from his blue eyes and tall nose, it could be examined that he is a westerner.

After the men stopped, Sakuya took a step forward and pick her skirt to take a bow.

“First time meeting you all, my visitors. What kind of business do you all have in Japan?”

“Whaat, just a little stroll”

The old man was the one that answered Sakuya’s question.

“*Kusu**Kusu*, don’t joke. A stroll is something you do with your own legs”

“Fuhaha, that’s a harsh one. Well then………….how about having a talk with the youngsters about society while I am sightseeing?”

“Yes, gladly if that is the case”

Even though she was in front of a weird scenery of a group of men holding guns, Sakuya was not showing any signs of cowardice.

“However well, I was seriously scared that we might be shot down when we were landing”

“No, it’s because this is Japan. It would be a big commotion if we do something that dangerous”

“Hahaha, that’s true too. No wonder that man is in such light clothing”

“That’s because there was no need for it………….”

Having his sights directed to him, Mikuni answered.

It was only natural to be in light clothing.

There was no need for the <<Exceed>>’s to carry weapons such as guns.

“I see, I see. I guess this is the famous <<Exceed>> from the rumors like I thought”

The old man said the word that should be impossible for a normal person to know and *Pan**Pan* made a short clap.

However, Sakuya and the rest were not surprised at all.

It’s normal. There was no way a team of normal people would bring guns along with them.

“Oya, I thought you would show some response but…………….”

“Sorry to not meet your expectations……….by the way, is it about time you name yourself? Or should we name ours first?”

“Fuhaha, I don’t need you to do that, Tsukumo Sakuya-dono. No should I call you-----the <<{{Furigana|Blaze Witch|Blaze Diabolica}}>>”

“…………….”

Sakuya moved her expression at this point for the first time.

“There is a reaction like I thought. Iyaa, this is good, this is good”

Although it was slight, she did show her surprise and the old man was laughing very happily like he succeeded in his prank.

“Sorry for the late introduction. I am <<Equipment smith>>-----Edward=Walker. This unannounced visit was because I wanted to meet the witch I hear from the rumors”

“-----I apologize for not knowing a person from <<Rein>>. I am honored to meet you, <<Equipment Smith>>-sama”

Sakuya bowed her head once more with a smile.

Even though she heard the old-man’s nickname, she has yet reached what kind of organization the men in front was affiliated with.

Enemy------it’s not like they are. At the very least, the current point that is.

But, it’s true that it is an organization that should be cautious about and originally, it would be normal to start exchanging a conversation without obstacle to search each other intentions but-------

“Hey, Jii-san<ref group ="2F">old man</ref>. Forget the sluggish conversation already and let’s get to the point. I will become sleepy if you continue blabbing useless words”

Just like her words, Rito made a large yawn in a bored manner,

The old man who called himself <<Equipment smith>> opened his eyes wide at the comment and actions of a person unable to read the atmosphere and-------

“Fuhahahahaha!! That is harsh. Ha—hahahahaha!!”

He places his hand on his forehead and made a big laugh.

“I apologize for my subordinate”

“Iya Iya, it is an old-man’s bad habit to make the conversation long. I will follow the rabbit ear Ojou-san and enter the real topic to avoid boring the  <<{{Furigana|Blaze Witch|Blaze Diabolica}}>>”

While making the smile of a good natured old-man, Edward started talking about the real reason why he suddenly appeared in front of Sakuya.

“If I have to put in one word then it’s about making an alliance. <<{{Furigana|Blaze Witch|Blaze Diabolica}}>>-dono, I want to borrow your power”

“……….you jest”

“Iya Iya, I am really serious. I am an old friend with your grandfather. I understand his amazingness more than anyone else and inheriting that thick blood of his, I have also heard of how magnificent you are. That is why; I am paying my respect and came to pick you up personally”

“---------I see, grandfather’s………….but how regretful, my answer will not change”

Sakuya’s answer *Hohoou* made Edward mumbled shortly.

“No matter what?”

Sakuya made a small nod in a natural manner at the question again.

“Fumu, how regretful. You, your grandfather and I are quite '''''close'''''------because of that, I thought it would be possible to work together but……..let me see, this would mean-----“

“Now that the deal is off, you will use force and take our director away-----right?”

In an instant, Rito continued in the part that got opened.

“Fuhahahaha!! You sure said something interesting”

“Kuhah, but I am right, right?”

“It is just as you say, rabbit ear Ojou-san. And incidentally-----“

Edward sends his sight to the teen standing behind him.

“I am having difficulties finding a practical use of the <<Power>> I gave them. If the opponent is the famous <<Exceed>> then, it would be something that would occur easily even if I wish for it”

“Nice nice, that confidence. I really can’t get enough of it”

In the vigor of almost licking her lips, Rito reveal her happiness.

“Well then, <<K>>-kun. I’ll leave the rest to you. Please be careful not to hurt <<{{Furigana|Blaze Witch|Blaze Diabolica}}>>-dono even if it is a mistake”

After Edward went to the back, the Caucasian teen-----<<K>> gave order to the men at the side. 

“You, take around 2 people into the building with you. Remember to secure the Bristol daughter. If she resists then, It is okay to hurt her until she does not die”

“………..oh my, do you have any business with Lealith?”

“Naturally. There is a lot of ways to use her”

“I won’t recommend you using her if you are going to make a trade with Dawn organization. No matter if she is the <<Exception>> they would easily throw her away if it produces an unprofitable situation”

“I don’t mind. Even if I don’t use her for the trade, she is a target the <<Equipment Smith>>-dono has taken a good interest in.-----okay, go!!”

3 men entered the building by <<K>> order.

“Errrr, what’s left is……….15 people huh. Kuhah, you’re going to need 100 times more than that if you are going to take me on”

“As expected from the <<Exceed>>. Rather than getting scared from this number of opponent, you say that there is an absolute difference in power…………..then, I will work hard to give you the enjoyment”

<<K>> spread both his hands out and shows a fearless smile.

Although it was in a polite way, it was unpleasant to hear <<K>> words which has hypocritical courtesy felt in it.

'''''“That’s because we are also existence that transcends humans too”'''''

Immediately, the group of mean in the surrounding scattered around in a speed unthinkable for normal people and surrounded Sakuya and the rest.

“…………...strengthen armor I guess”

The moment the group of men moved, Mikuni did not miss the slight machine sound coming from their armor.

“It is still in prototype stage without the adjustments made yet”

“Kuhah. Interesting”

Rito made a distorted smile and manifested her <<{{Furigana|Fang sword|Tebutje}}>>.

“To show respect to that expression that look down on others, '''''I will seriously beat the shit out of you'''''”

But------

“Stop, Rito”

It was her master that stopped Rito.

“Now that you have no <<Level Limit>> placed on you, the building will get destroyed if you go all out” 

“Incidentally let me say this, your <<Blaze>> '''''stands out a lot''''', it will be annoying to fix the after-effects for me”

Being told by her master and her superior, Rito made a sullen face.

“Rito. You and I will protect Sara. Mikuni, please present them the time of silence”

After Rito stand down, Mikuni manifested his <<Blaze>>.

After seeing the <<Soul>> weapon that appeared in his hands, <<K>> made a scornful smile.

“I think this is impossible but, are you going to take on all of us with that seedy-looking <<Stiletto>>”

“Seedy-looking huh……………rather, let me tell you something, I am very unsatisfied about the thought of you able to take on an awaken <<Exceed>> with that level of power. And one more thing----“

“------!! That’s ………..!?”

Immediately at that '''''strange scenery'''''--------

<<K>> gasped when he saw the '''''12 <<Stiletto>> floating around Mikuni'''''.

Mikuni answered with both his hands spread out.

“I have 13 blades”


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==Translation Notes and References==

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