Editing Absolute Duo:Volume 4 Chapter 5

==Chapter 5 『If Malice Fills The World』==

===Part 1===

It was extreme lonely on the evening I regained consciousness.

Miyabi, who was still unconscious, and Tachibana who went to the infirmary to look after her, have not come back yet.

While everyone was having a heavy-atmosphere meal without talking, the conversation from the surroundings entered my ears------I found out that the incident in the afternoon has already spread out.

It looks like the source of the information was the students that were at the hall; the fact that we fought Miyabi in a <<Unit>> was spread out. Thanks to that, several speculations and glances were directed to us and we had to pass the time uncomfortably.

Our meal soon ended and right after we got out from the cafeteria, I asked Lilith something.

“Please tell me about the <<{{Furigana|God’s Destruction Team|Libel}}>> and their boss- the <<Equipment Smith>>”

Now that Miyabi was used for their plan, the situation now is different from before.

Even if we can’t do anything about it, I want to gain as much info about the enemy as possible.

“I’ll treat you all some milk tea. Come to my room”

After only replying that, Lilith took Sara and went back to her room; I followed her with Julie and Tora behind me.

In Lilith’s room which was located at the 3rd floor, the curtains and furniture were replaced with high-class ones and the room was giving off a very different brilliance although it had the same structure as the other dorm rooms. 

Originally, I was supposed to feel nervous for entering a girl’s room but, my feelings were far from that now.

Lilith kept quiet even though she reached her room, and the room was filled with the heavy-atmosphere just like what we had in the cafeteria just now.

After awhile, Sara distributed the milk tea to everyone and only then, Lilith finally opened her mouth.

“It’s Dawn’s confidential secret regarding him. That’s why, my answer is the same as last time. Don’t make me say it twice”

“……….so basically, you aren’t going to tell us”

After taking a sip of milk tea, [Yes, that’s right] Lilith nodded.

“Fuun. You told us to come all the way to your room and that’s it huh, what a waste of energy……!!”

Tora stood up in anger when he heard the words Lilith said after a long silence.

“Oh my, you’re not drinking the milk tea?”

“No need! Tooru, Julie, let’s go!!”

I understand Lilith’s position but, since I also understand Tora’s feeling for getting enraged, I was about to leave the room after giving up to gain info of the enemy.

“Sorry, Lilith. I’ll take your treat next time okay”

“I see. How disappointing”

After saying that, Lilith took up her cup----

“This is mumbling to myself-----“

She suddenly said that without looking at us.

“<<Equipment Smith>>-----his real name is Edward=Walker, an expert of Mechanical Engineering; he’s an enthusiastic person that develops engine and propulsion systems, while on the other hand he develop things like artificial muscles……..if I remember correctly”

“Ojou-sama………!”

“This is just a mumble to myself. Don’t make me say it twice, Sara”

The butler flat out said that in panic but, Lilith told her to quiet down instead.

“Okay, time to continue my mumbling”

Hearing those words, me and Julie looked back at Lilith and Tora folded his arms while leaning his back at the wall.

“I heard that he talked about an exo-skeleton suit that will overturn common sense and his surroundings did not understand him because of that”

The exo-skeleton suit was most likely the <<Unit>>.

“12 years ago, he suddenly disappeared from the organization he was affiliated with----and ever since then, his whereabouts were unknown until the time he showed himself at the <<Survive>>. Most likely, he introduced himself to the organization that the <<{{Furigana|God’s Destruction Team|Libel}}>> are currently affiliated with------the Gogmagog I think?”

Lilith took a sip of the milk tea before continuing.

“The Gogmagog is a secret organization tied to America’s military. However, they are mainly devoted to developing military weapons and with that power behind them, it’s an organization that has the highest influence in current North America…………unlike the Dawn Organization, it does not have a surface and I wonder if the fact that they're doing nasty things is true, I wonder?”

Lilith took another sip and sigh before I asked a question.

“…….Why is that <<Equipment Smith>> fellow treated as the organization’s confidential secret?”

Lilith looked down at the milk tea and mumbled.

“Edward was originally Dawn Organization’s development bureau number 2”

We gasped when we heard those unexpected words.

“On top of leaving the organization, after he was confirmed to have introduced himself to the enemy organization, the whole organization went into ruins. What’s more, he deleted all of the in-development data, data of completed developments and of course his personal data too when he left…………thanks to that, the whole organization was in chaos………….seriously it was one annoying event”

After making a sigh, Lilith faced foward and opened her eyes wide.

“Oh my, why if isn’t Tooru. You came to drink milk tea I guess”

With that one sentence, Lealith has implicitly ended the talk.

“Aah. I want the others to know about Sara’s milk tea too. Both of you sit down, it’s exquisite”

[Ja---. I’ll drink] [Fuun. Well……..I guess I’ll join in]

After Julie and Tora sat down, Sara made another batch of milk tea.





Around the afternoon on the next day-------even though it was still class time, there was a broadcast in the school.

Just when I wondered what it was, my name was called out to head to the chairman office during lunch time.

What’s more, I was not the only one that was call out; Julie, Lilith, Tachibana and also Tora were called too.

Everyone here thought it was going to be about yesterday’s incident but, Tora wasn’t at the place yesterday.

It was lunch time and while we were talking about what the business was going to be, we reached the office and united with Tachibana who came back from the infirmary.

“I see, she’s awake……..”

“Umu. There isn’t an after-effect too”

I asked if there were any wounds on her from the check up but, I became relieved anyway.

Even though I know it’s going to be alright since I attacked her with a similar bashing-type <<Blaze>> but, it was still fact that I launched <<{{Furigana|Thunder god’s strike|Mjolnir}}>> at Miyabi.

“But, she will be there for a few days just in case after considering the influences she might get from her surroundings”

Now that one night has passed, many students now know that Miyabi worn the <<Unit>>.

There were some students that got injured during that incident so it was a necessary procedure.

“Even Miyabi wanted to arrange her feelings without anyone around…..”

I could only nod, when Tachibana was making a complex expression.

“Also, this is my request but-------please don’t visit her for a while…………especially you, Kokonoe. Well you know”

“………….I understand”

Although it was inevitable, I wanted to apologize to Miyabi.

I wanted to see her cheerful face.

---but, the reason why I was the biggest factor of this incident was clearly because Miyabi said my name many times when she was being controlled.

I know painfully well that I shouldn’t show up now-----so, it’s better not to meet her face to face.





The thing waiting for us in the office was the talk personally by the chairman about the training.

“You all will be joining the actual training on the day after tomorrow”

It seems students that turned <<{{Furigana|III|Level 3}}>> will join the Dawn organization’s public maintenance order team----Ethnarch’s mission. It was the organization’s consideration, so that we could have a smoother entrance into the team after graduation, by joining many actual training in an early stage.

I heard this from my last class but, the day has finally come.

“From the start of the year to summer, this is the first time that 5 students gained the qualifications to join this year. There are many excellent students this year and the organization’s higher-ups are happy. Also, graduates of this school-----everyone affiliated with the Ethnarch is anticipating your attendance in the training”

However, the introduction was taken over by Mikuni-sensei.

“People that would cause hindrance to others during the mission because of their wounded state----which means, Tachibana-san will not be joining in. However, by your wish, we will consider allowing you in if you choose to observe instead…….”

“……..I am very sorry but, I will leave this one out. Right now Miyabi-----no, I'm thinking of being beside Hotaka-san”

In terms of gaining experience, joining in even if it’s just observing would be a good idea but, Tachibana honestly picked to be beside Miyabi.

The chairman clapped her hands to Tachibana, who chose to leave this one out for personally reasons.

“The feelings of taking care of your partner <<Duo>>, it’s wonderful. Within the students in the same year, you are a skilled, smart, and excellent student so, I wanted you to experience the field as fast as possible but, it can’t be helped if you have that reason”

“Thank you, Chairman.

After making one nod to Tachibana, who bowed down, the chairman looked back at us again.

“Okay, I will now tell you regarding the mission’s contents. I think this has quite related to you all”

(Us……?)

I waited while wondering what she meant-----

“The training content involves being my guard when I am attending a banquet. In that place-----an old man called <<Equipment Smith>>, the person that made <<{{Furigana|God’s Destruction Team|Libel}}>> will be attending too”

“-----!! E-<<Equipment Smith>>….!?”

I raised my surprise when the chairman told me the unexpected name.

“Judging by that reaction, it seems you know about him to a certain extent”

“Fufu, Tooru is unexpectedly quite informed I see”

Lilith shrugs her shoulders to play it off when the chairman looked at her.

Of course, there was no way that would fool her but, the chairman did not ask anything and looked back at me.

“From the organizer of this banquet, we were strictly prohibited from any battles no matter what the reason may be. However, it’s probably hard to think that nothing is going happen with the <<Equipment Smith>>, after we looked at the past situations. Because of that, this mission has without a doubt danger awaiting it. For that----“

The chairman told us that there will be a fork path here.

“I don’t mind if anyone says that they want to leave this one out you know? All of you are still students after all”

But-----not a single person wanted to leave it out.

“Kokonoe Tooru. I have something I want to tell you so stay here”

After telling us the gathering time and place for the day after tomorrow, I was the only one called to stay back when we were about to leave.

I made everyone else head to the cafeteria first and the office only had me, the chairman and Mikuni-sensei left inside.

“Err………..what is it about?”

“I am thinking of repaying back the debt I owe you”

“Debt?”

“Yes, did you forget what I said when you saved me from <<K>>?”

“Now that I think about it……..”

I have memories of her telling me that on the boat.

“I didn’t finish my sentence the last time but, I did not fight to make a debt from…….”

“……..I know-----is what I wanted to say but, I won’t be satisfied if I don’t do so. Also, I think this isn’t a bad deal for you”

After the chairman giggled, a thud was produced when she placed a black cylinder on top of the table.

“And that’s……….?”

“This is in a special shape but----this is a Jet Injector”

“-----!!”

I understood immediately what the chairman was trying to say.

The chairman noticed that I understood before nodding.

“Kokonoe Tooru, I hereby give you the permission to perform the <<Sublimation Ceremony>>………This is my thanks”

My heart's beating loudly.

There was no way that I wouldn’t understand on how big of a deal it was.

Originally, <<Level Up>> chances are given only 3 times per year.

This was already common knowledge but, it’s not like I will successfully sublimate.

On top of that, I was told that full-body muscle pain and high fever will attack the person for a few days if the sublimation failed. It seems Miyabi and Tatsu had a rough time waking up for a few days after failing the sublimation, and continued sleeping in their room without coming out.

However, to me who wants to gain <<Power>>, the risk doesn’t matter to me and the chance to increase the sublimation is like a wish come true but------

There was something I couldn’t agree from this talk.

“I have one question. The reason why I stayed back here is because……”

“Yes, this is something I wanted to tell only to you”

“………why am I the only one? There were several people that moved to save the chairman. Julie, Lilith, and Imari too. Tora too even though he wasn’t at the spot……..but even so, what kind of reason do you have to give me special treatment-----“

“……….It’s because you are an <<Unrivaled>>, Kokonoe Tooru”

The reply was somewhat within my expectation.

The reason why Lilith, who’s an <<Unrivaled Blaze>> like me, didn’t get chosen was probably because she has no limit to the chances to sublimate, unlike the other students.

And, am I given special treatment too because I am an <<Irregular>>?

But, I didn’t want to be treated that way and naturally said my thoughts.

“I……….for me to be treated specially and leaving everyone else behind………”

“Why are you hesitating? The reason why you wanted the <<Lucifer>>, wasn’t to happily hold hands with others and reach the goal right……?”

“------!!”

My shock and lack of composure were exposed when she stab me with those very accurate words.

It’s just as she said.

I wanted <<Power>> for my revenge, but-----

(Don’t tell me the chairman knew…..!?)

The only person that knows about the incident with him was Julie, that person and none other than myself.

“I will now repeat myself, Kokonoe Tooru. I give you the permission to perform the <<Sublimation Ceremony>>. Considering the possibility of failure after using this permitted sublimation, I don’t mind if it performed after the training----“

“Wait”

I interrupted her words and swung my head.

“I will……….not use this authority. I don’t need it”

“…………can I hear the reason?”

Quietly and in a low tone, she asked me without any hint of emotion inside her voice.

“It’s true that I want to become stronger------I want a <<Power>> that won’t lose to anyone. That’s why, I am really thankful that you gave me the chance for that. But, receiving the chance to sublimate alone and leaving my comrades, who fought together with me------just feels wrong”

At this moment the memories of my comrades, who suffered together with me to aim for the top, floated in my mind.

The memories of my precious comrades that would help me out.

We had many different conditions and situations but, if I alone gained power for my own purposes then, I feel that I might get distorted like him.

“I-----am competing with everyone to reach the top so, I will not use this authority”

[[File:Absolute Duo Volume 4 Non-Colour 7.jpg|thumb]]

I looked straight at the chairman and told her my determination.

The black clothed girl looked a little shocked before narrowing her eyes.

“*Giggle*. I am happy to the bottom of my heart that a proud and noble student has enrolled into the academy……….I understand, I will respect your determination. Let’s end the conversation here”

After she said that, I bowed down the chairman who was facing her back to me and I was about to leave the room but, at that moment,

“…………….but remember this”

The chairman standing at the window turned around and told me this.

“No matter how wonderful your determination may be, the world will not guarantee you its acceptance……………that is even more so, since this world is filled with ill intents”

Ill intents will bear their fangs towards you no matter what determination one has.

I found that out with my body; with a feeling that cannot be compared with pain from 2 years ago, and also yesterday.

That was why the chairman’s words pierced deeply into me.

It was as if it was choking me…………





After 2 days, it was on Saturday evening-----

We gathered at the quay at the edge of the southern back gate and the chairman and Mikuni-sensei were waiting for us there. 

We were going to depart on the pressure boat and after we were dropped off somewhere in the city, we will meet up with the Ethnarch and switch to a car.

“Be careful, Kokonoe. Please refrain from forcing yourself”

“Haha, I know”

Even though I replied that, Tachibana looked towards Julie.

“……………….Julie, I am counting on you to guard Kokonoe”

“Ja----“

“What guard……….just what do you think about me”

“That’s because you have been reckless when you aren’t in my eyes reach. I feel worried when I just think about you getting reckless in today’s mission too”

“……..Tomoe’s head is filled with Tooru huh”

“------!? N-no-not really; it’s just for a friend. Wh-what, Kokonoe, why are you looking at me with those eyes!?”

I have been giving her reckless impressions of myself huh…………was the look I have been giving her but, Tachibana suddenly looked panicked and-------

“D-don’t make any weird misunderstandings, Kokonoe you idiot-------!!”

“Why------!?”

Even though she was still in crutches, she ran away with tremendous speed.

Tachibana passed by Mikuni-sensei and Tsukimi accompanied by the chairman.

We were going to depart--------was what I thought but, Tora got called over by Mikuni-sensei and they started talking.

Thanks to that, we had free time and the rabbit-ear person approached me with a mischievous smile.

“Kuhah, the usual playboy I see”

“What are you talking about?”

“I am obviously talking about miss-goody. Her face was super red. What did you do this time? What words did you attack her with? Did you suddenly put your tongue in? Did you fondle her huge tits?”

“Like hell!! And also, that isn’t playboy anymore, its pervert!!”

“Kuhah, you can say that too♪”

“You only can call it that!!”

I got tired from retorting to Tsukimi and *Zeehaa* started breathing heavily.

“I-in the first place, what did you come here for? We aren’t going together in this mission right”

“Well yeah. Give me a break, I have to baby-sit oh give me a break…………”

Tsukimi placed her hands on my shoulders in an overly-friendly manner and it seems that she was made to house-watch to avoid causing any troubles there.

“I am completely free since nothing happens during baby-sitting. Rabbits die from boredom you know?”

“It’s obviously better if nothing happens. However, if something really does happens then-------it’s reassuring that you are left here”

I won’t doubt her ability since she easily took down over 20 enemies alone during the attack in the seaside school.

By any chance, the <<{{Furigana|God’s Destruction Team|Libel}}>> commences a two-point attack like last time, Tsukimi staying back here will really be helpful……………leaving out her personality though.

“Hohoo, the <<Irregular>> feels reassured about me huh? Finally fell in love?”

“No way”

“I will pull your pants down in the next training and destroy your place in society”

(……………her existence itself is giving me anxiety about the future)

Tora’s conversation ended when we were having that conversation, and I was called to inform me it was time for departure.

“Okay I got to go. I’ll leave things here for the house-watch period”

“Okay okay, leave it to me. Don’t say for only the house-watch and say from now on”

“………….you’re a nice person huh”

It’s not something I should be saying to someone who tried to kill me but, it can’t be helped since I really felt that way.

“Stu—pid, what nice person are you talking about. I am an unequaled good woman”

After saying that, Tsukimi gave me a thumbs-down but, she was showing a smile.

At that time, Julie and the others called out to me when they were already in the boat.

“Tooru, we are going”

“Opps, I'm coming”

Right after I entered the boat, the boat engine started producing sound and we slowly started moving.

At that moment-----

“Tooru-kun…….!!”

Miyabi was calling out my name while running towards the quay.

“Mi-Miyabi!! Why are you here…….!?”

“I-I heard that you joined a dangerous mission from Tomoe-chan……..! So……ple-please be careful!  Please come back safely with everyone!! I have something I want to tell you!! So please come back okay, Tooru-kun!!”

Miyabi shouted to me who was on the boat getting further away.

That’s why I shouted back.

“I get it, I will come back!! I promise to come back with everyone!!”

Miyabi swung her hand and I show her my clenched fist.

Our voices could no longer reach other and Miyabi turned smaller and further away.

“……….Tooru”

When I looked behind, Julie, Lilith and Tora were looking at me.

“Let’s protect our promise”

“Aah, of course. Let’s come back, everyone!”

The 3 of them made a strong nod at my words.



===Part 2===

After 20 minutes, Tooru and the gang were no longer on the sea and were ascending a river.

The boat reached the dock for aquatic buses located at the riverside, which was among one of the several spots including the dummy place scheduled for us to dock as a pre-caution for surprise attacks.

We met up with the Etharch, and switch to a car.

While taking caution for an attack from <<{{Furigana|God’s Destruction Team|Libel}}>>, the car shook around for 30 minutes and the curtains for night time fell-------nothing particular happened and the moment Tooru was told that he could see their destination, he made a relieved sigh.

However, Tooru opened his eyes wide immediately when he saw their destination.

The area was surrounded with tall fences and after we passed through the door guard, the area was so wide that it was unbelievable that the premise was inside a metropolitan area, and there was a western garden filled with properly organized flowers and shrubs.

After a while of loitering into the garden, we reached the dazzling mansion that looked like a palace.

The car stopped right in the hall at the front of the mansion and after Sakuya got off---------

“All of you stand-by outside. Please listen to the captain’s orders”

After leaving that line, she accompanied Mikuni and entered the ground with the guide who came to pick her up.




Lilith looked at the black clothed girl walk into the door.

Even though she’s the <<Exception>>, she was powerless in this place controlled by the Dawn organization and could only see her off.

After the two of them disappeared into (pass) the door which was twice as tall, the gold girl looked up at the building.

It looked like a carefree action at first glance but, it wasn’t peaceful inside her.

(What is this presence……….just what kind of monsters are the <<Rein>>?)

The girl, who has the double the keenness of a person, felt goosebumps at the powerful presence lingering around the mansion.

“What’s wrong Lilith?”

“…………having the ceremony here with Tooru doesn’t sound like a bad idea at all”

In order to prevent having me feel her discomposure, the gold girl immediately put on her mask and joked around.





There was a wide atrium hall after passing through the door and there was a huge staircase leading to the 2nd floor inside.

Sakuya and Mikuni followed the guide up the stairs, and eventually stopped in front of a big door.

“Over here please”

(The <<Rein Conference>>-----is finally about to start……)

Even Sakuya felt nervous in front of the big door.

The heavy overpowering presence could be felt by the black clothed girl, who’s indifferent from fighting.

After the guide pushed open the heavy door, Sakuya and Mikuni entered the luxurious room.

A dazzling chandelier was on the roof (ceiling) illuminating the room, a mat with a beautiful pattern was spread out on the floor and a luxurious round table was placed in the middle.

There were 7 chairs placed around the table and 4 of them were filled.

Which means leaving aside Sakuya, who has just arrived, 2 people have not come yet.

“You’re here, the <<Blaze>> Ojou-chan”

After the door behind Sakuya and Mikuni closed, a rude man putting his legs on the table talked to her.

The 40 year old man’s cheeks were a little red and it could be guessed that it was from drinking alcohol. When he stood up, his body crossed over 190cm and a normal person would be frightened if they confront him. However the man smiled and his teeth could be seen, making him feel friendly.

Sakuya pinched her gothic dress and lowered her head.

“It has been a while, <<Grave Phantom>>-sama. And also, it’s nice meeting all the other <<Rein>> members. I am the one that inherited the <<Blaze>>----<<Diabolica>>. Nice to be (meet) your acquaintance”

“Ouu, nice to meet you….ah, Jou-chan your seat is there so go ahead. The Onii-chan you brought has none so sorry”

“I will take you up on your words”

“No, I don’t mind”

After the man called <<Phantom>> pointed to the chair, Sakuya walked over and-----

“…………by the way Jou-chan, how is he?”

“I brought that for him here. You can go check if you're curious you know?”

“Hnnn, it’s not to that extent but I’ll pass”

While hearing the big man’s reply, Sakuya sat down and Mikuni stood behind his master.

After looking at those 2, <<Phantom>> looked at the whole scene before talking.

“Okay then. Before we start, let’s introduce ourselves for the new face <<Diabolica>> here. First off, I am <<Grave Phantom>>. Nice to meet ya, Ojou-chan…………alright, next you, <<Disaster>>”

<<Phantom>> looked towards the young man sitting at his left side.

“…………<<Dark Ray Disaster>>”

Not caring that it was in the summer, after the man slightly lifted his face which was half covered with a muffler, he took a glance at Sakuya before telling her his <<Sepher Name>>. He then lowered his sights to show that he had nothing more to say.

But, hearing his <<Sepher name>> was more than enough for Sakuya.

Even though it wasn’t much, <<Rien>> written inside Dawn organization’s secret data’s.

(A <<Holy knight>> affiliated with <<Holy>>)

A <<Holy knight>> is a title given to someone who is affiliated with the Anti-heretic organization <<Holy>>, which is a bureau that won’t see sunlight even within historical giant sects based in Western Europe.  Above judging heretics in the name of god as a <<Holy Knight>>, he is rumored to have high battle abilities.

Also, since the Dawn organization’s biological enhancement nano-machines-<<Lucifer>> was a research that strays from the path of god, they weren’t on good terms with <<Holy>>. Sakuya felt that the reason for <<Disaster>>’s unsociability was probably related to that.

“Okay next goes to you, <<Diva>>”

<<Phantom>> moved his sights to the beauty with a tidy air around her, who was sitting beside Sakuya.

“It’s <<Silent Diva>>. We are both females so let’s be friends, <<Blaze Diabolica>>”

Her beauty was enough to steal anyone’s eyes and her silent smile was just like her <<Sepher Name>>.

There was no mistake that anyone would fall for her if they saw that warm and gentle smile.

(If it’s only by atmosphere, she the most out of character here)

Leaving aside her age, Sakuya who was the most out of character person here, thought that while giving back a smile.

“Of course. I have heard a lot of (about) you, <<Silent Diva>>-sama”

There were only a few number of people in the surface world that knows about <<Rein>> but, <<Silent Diva>> was the most famous within them all. 

That’s because she’s a princess of a certain country in Eastern Europe.

The person who devoted herself to advance the medical healthcare system of her motherland, and simultaneously, the gentle and beautiful heir to the throne who looks like a holy lady----- 

However, as long as she’s someone whose name is listed in the <<Rein>>, Sakuya bears in mind that she was not someone to take light of. 

“Okay, next would----“

“Be me”

Even though the lean old man sitting on the right side of <<Phantom>>----<<Equipment Smith>> continued his sentence, the big man reeking in alcohol swung his head.

“Nope, not your turn yet old man”

The moment <<Phantom>> looked over to the empty seat between <<Smith>> and <<Diva>>----

Suddenly, a round glowing ball of light appeared above an empty seat.

The mysterious light that was inside the pattern (ball), flicked over to the vacant seat-----

Immediately, a young man in a showy military uniform filled  the seat that was supposed to be empty.

“{{Furigana|Salut|Long time no see}}, ladies and gentlemen. And also------{{Furigana|Enchante|first time meeting you}}, <<Blaze Diabolica>>”

“……………. <<Tempest Judge>>-sama, I presume?”

“Exactly”

The same time the young man made a satisfied nod to Sakuya’s confirmation----- 

A shadow suddenly appeared on the table.

“You bastard-----------!!”

<<Disaster>> raised his giant scythe and jumped towards the young man in military uniform.

The grim reaper’s scythe that would definitely reap the life of others in one swing, made a flash -----

But the blade stopped right just before the <<Tempest Judge>>'s neck.

---no, it was stopped.

“I already said that, battles are prohibited here, <<Disaster>>”

Holding the blade between 2 fingers, the <<Phantom>> was the one that prevented him from swinging the grim reaper’s scythe.

He was sitting down just a moment ago.

“What are you going to do? If you really want to go at it then, I’ll take you on alright?”

“*Tsk*……!”

<<Disaster>> clicked his tongue before landing on his chair by kicking the table again.

“Well, it’s a great help to the host if you choose to be like that”

“………….it’s annoying if he runs away while we are fighting”

While glaring at <<Judge>>, <<Disaster>> made an irritated voice before sitting down.

“Was that a teleporter?”

Not caring at the problem that just occurred, Sakuya asked the young man in military uniform and he nodded.

Magic-----

Even though it’s something treated as fiction in the current world, it exists, just like what was seen here. However, its existence is hidden and it's not taken as fact in the surface world but, that goes for the <<Lucifer>> and <<Unit>> too.

“Is it your first time seeing teleportation magic?”

“Yes, it’s magic itself though. It’s embarrassing for me to say this but I am quite distant from that field and I didn’t have the time for it too so, I only have a little knowledge about it”

“Fufu, mine is just all knowledge and the magic itself doesn’t happen. The teleport I performed just now was thanks to a tool with magic engraved in it”

Sakuya felt that it was a statement not worth believing.

(<<Tempest Judge>>-sama-------he has the least information among the <<Rein>> and has a lot of mysteries around him. At the very least, he looks quite informed about magic I see………..also, he is quite in bad terms with <<Dark Ray Disaster>>-sama)

'''''It was great info''''' that was what stayed in the girl’s heart.

That’s because, she won’t know when she can use their relationship for her purposes.

“Next off is my-----“

“I know enough so it’s okay, <<Equipment Smith>>-sama”

“Wahaha. That’s cold, Jou-chan”

The lean old man shrugged his shoulders at Sakuya’s bland reply and that caused <<Phantom>> to laugh out.

After his laugh settled down, the big man pointed his fat fingers at the vacant seat.

“For the last person-----he will probably show himself if you get closer to the <<Absolute Duo>>”

“………….which means, a meeting won’t be possible unless I get close huh”

“Exactly. The conversation is moving fast and it’s a great help”

After <<Phantom>> said that, he made a grin.

“Okay then. Now that things have quiet down and everyone is here. Oiii, wait for me! Someone’s dirty leg caused a stain so change the cloth!”

The big man played innocent since it was caused by him putting his legs on the table and made a loud laugh while pointing that out.





After a while, extravagant food was prepared and they passed the time talking together with the food.

The conversation was mainly the taste and ingredients of the food but, contents that would pry into other member’s situation would sometimes be mixed in---which could be said to be a normal thing to do as a <<Rein>>.

Why would they do such a thing?

That’s because the other <<Rein>> weren’t comrades.

Even though the <<Absolute Duo>> was their core, they walk on separate paths-------basically, they're all competing against each other.

That’s why they would hide their own information and use speech skills to gain their opponent's information.

Sakuya was also imitating that but-----

“Is the <<'''''Blaze'''''>> doing well, <<Diabolica>>-dono?”

Edward talked to her when she was in a conversation.

“You can’t figure that out from the point that I came here?”

“Oh my, please accept my apologies. I haven’t drank alcohol with him before after all”

It’s a weird question to ask about the <<Blaze>> to the <<Blaze Diabolica>>.

That’s because Sakuya wasn’t originally the <<Blaze>>.

The original <<Blaze>> was referring to Sakuya’s grandfather called <<Blaze Innovator>>.

However, ever since he was bedridden from a sickness from 3 years ago, the black clothed girl inherited his <<Lucifer>> research and the <<Sepher Name>> of the<<Blaze>>.

Naturally, Edward asked knowing full well about that.

“Can you please not go so far to ask me about that here?”

“Fuhahaha, that was just a greeting. The main topic starts here”

“Oh is that so. Well then, can I hear the fun talk you have for me?”

“Of course”

After making a deep nod, <<Smith>> started conversing with her while the other <<Rien>> was showing interest at them.

“Fufu, looks like a fun conversation is about to start. I would like to hear the rest quick”

“Haha, we are expecting a fun talk here, old-man”

“Sadly, it might be more of a ghost story then a fun talk for you all”

The old man replied back with a smile that makes one feel his inner mischief, to both <<Judge>> and <<Phantom>>.

After making a smile, the military uniformed young man and old man listened carefully to him.

“Okay, back to our main topic. Though I said that, I think the wise <<Diabolica>>-dono already knows what I am going to talk about”

“………..It’s the alliance huh”

Edward nodded at Sakuya’s reply and the <<Tempest Judge>> raised a voice of admiration.

“{{Furigana|Tres bien|Wonderful}}. I never would have imagined that a member of <<Rein>> would suggest to team up”

“Now that’s interesting. It’s true that the old man’s <<Unit>> and the jou-chan’s <<Exceed>> has great compatibility”

“I heard this rumor before. That the <<Unit>> you talked about has finally seen completion”

“Fuhahaha, you get info fast like I thought”

Even if he asked where did you get that information from? , <<Smith>> did not investigate and just smiled because he knows that <<Judge>> would just play it off.

“The exo-skeleton’s suit completion huh………….fumu, it will be a miraculous <<Power>> if the alliance is created but, what is the <<Blaze Diabolica>>’s answer?”

“………..before my answer, I will have to ask you a question. The <<Lucifer>> will only function to people who are born with the <<Adapt>>. Because of that, I might get benefits by the alliance but, there is no benefits what so ever to you, <<Equipment Smith>>-sama”

After the black-clothed girl said those words in a strange tone, the lean old man replied back immediately as if he was waiting for those words.

“Of course, I do know about the <<Adapt>> too. I was part of Dawn before after all-----I was also your grandfather’s friend and we would often talk about our research as good competing opponents”

“Then, tying an alliance without any benefits would be----“	

“I also know this”

The old man interrupted her words and continued.

“I also know that the research of the new-model <<Lucifer>> has the possibility of sublimating a person to an <<Exceed>> without the <<Adapt>>------also, I know that the new-model is in testing phase too”

“…………….even though you were away for quite a while, it looks like you are quite familiar about our internal affairs huh”

The smile disappeared from Sakuya’s expression.

The plan for the new-model <<Lucifer>> was established during the several years the old man was missing.

This means that, there was no way for Edwawrd to know about the new-model and he currently holds more secrets than just the <<Lucifer>>.

(………….I should think that there is a traitor among us. Judging by the number of people that knows about confidential information, there are only a few but………..)

Her reasoning was correct. The reason why the previous attacks could easily succeed was because one of the researchers was secretly working for Edward.

(I have to do something about it once I get back)

With or without the knowledge about what was moving in Sakuya’s mind, the <<Equipment Smith>> started talking about the alliance with passion.

“The <<Power>> of a <<Exceed>> wearing the <<Unit>> is just as what you saw a few days ago. Even though it was a student who was trained together with the impurities known as a normal lifestyle, she displayed that much progress. We should train all of them as pure soldiers and later on administer them the new-model <<Lucifer>> to the students that are completed as battle machines—as the <<{{Furigana|Ell.Libel|God’s Destruction soldier}}>>; just imagine the possibilities if we do so!”

<<Smith>> stood up from his chair and his voice gradually feels more heated.

“Once they gained the new <<Power>> which will be completed in no time, they will reach a higher height. The completion of the real <<Libel>> will occur at that moment and they would surpass, destroy anyone standing in their path--------yes, even if the one standing in the way was god!! Wahahahaha!!”

Everyone gave their comments at the old man’s announcement while he was making a loud laugh.

“That’s bold, old man. So that’s the path you are on”

“{{Furigana|Tres bien|Wonderful}}. Surpass and destroy god-----so that’s why you named them <<{{Furigana|Ell.Libel|God’s Destruction soldier}}>>”

“Everything huh, that’s quite grand I see”

“……………..To think that you would mention killing God in front of someone affiliated to <<Holy>>”

And the crucial Sakuya remained silently looking at <<Smith>> without moving her expression.

“……I have one question. Why is it a group aiming for the top instead of one person?”

She asked a question to the old man.

“Fuhahaha. How obvious. Someone alone can’t handle a group. Unraveling history demonstrates that too. No matter how heroic a hero is, he was never alone and there was always a subordinate or assistance behind him”

What the old man said was correct.

By grouping up, humans contributed knowledge, pass down skills and soon, conquered the lands.

“Oh <<Diabolica>>, the person who lived to inherit the <<Blaze>>. Since you are the <<Blaze>> that created the <<Duo>> system and Ethnarch team, you should be able to understand on why a group is important right?”

“……..yes, I know enough. Thank you for answering my question, <<Equipment Smith>>-sama”

“I don’t mind. More importantly, after considering the conversation we had just now, can I have the reply for the alliance once more?”

The black clothed girl told her reply to the old man, who was seeking for a reply.

“I refuse”

“Wha……!?”

The girl continued to the surprised old man.

“You said this before <<Equipment Smith>>-sama. That, we are quite similar…………it is just as you say. <<Lucifer>> and the <<Unit>> enhances humans with external factors-------that one point is the same…..however, that is all to it”

“Houu…….?”

“The <<Power>> you seek is only on the surface. It’s clear from the complete soldier as a machine example you said just now………….however, we are also seeking the <<Power>> of the <<Soul>>. Even if, the fields we are aiming at are different, and that’s what I think”

At this moment, the small <<Diabolica>> made a smile which was enough to give anyone looking at her the chills.

“Also-------I realized this”

“Realize? What are you talking about?”

“Your real '''''intentions'''''”

Edward slightly moved his eyebrows when he heard Sakuya’s words.

“<<Equipment Smith>>-sama. I know that you lost to my grandfather, the <<Blaze Innovator>> 12 years ago. You then found out about the <<Absolute Duo>> and instead of the path my grandfather reached, you chose the road of destruction-----as a result, you separated yourself from Bristol-sama and the others, from the {{Furigana|Varan|3 head of the organization}}”

“--------!! I-I didn’t lose!! Take those words back, you brat!!”

Sakuya placed her finger on her mouth to Edward who was trembling.

“You wanted to gain satisfaction by using my chosen grandfather’s <<Power>> to grant the wish of the un-chosen you; that’s one shallow motive huh. *Giggle**Giggle**Giggle*……….” 

“D-damn you………..! You little brat, acting like you know everything…………!!”

Even though the old man slammed the table and vented out his anger, that loss of composure was just the same as telling her that her words were true.

“You damn doll for Tsukumo!! I will make you regret insulting me!!”

“Oi oi, old man. I told you that fighting in this banquet is prohibited”

<<Phantom>> shrug his shoulders and told that to the old man, who turned angry from a bulls-eye but, Sakuya made a small laugh.

“*giggle*, just what are you going to do to make me regret? From what I see, it seems you are alone today so I don’t think you can do anything” 

“Just like you, I avoided doing something boorish like bringing anyone other than <<Rein>> members into the <<Rein Conference>>. If you wish for it then, I can have the <<{{Furigana|God’s Destruction Team|Libel}}>> standing-by break into this place you know”

Sakuya chuckled when she saw the old man turned explosive.

The biggest reason why she joined tonight’s banquet was because she was expecting something to happen------and if that doesn’t happen then, she would have to cause something to make it happen.

But at this moment------

“Wait up, both of you. I think it’s a good idea to cool your heads okay?”

<<Judge>> cut in to mediate them.

---was what everyone thought at first.

“However………!!”

<<Judge>>‘s voice turned even louder and caused an echo in the room.

“Even if we come to an agreement, I feel that it will clearly leave a negative mark between you two. Because of that, how about we settle this with a game?”

“A game!! I don’t have to listen to such a stupid suggestion!!”

“{{Furigana|Non non|No no}}. I am always serious, <<Equipment Smith>>”

The impression given by him shrugging his shoulder and head swinging from the left to right was completely different from his words and that made Edward grind his teeth.

At that point, the other person in concern--Sakuya joined in too.

“………….I'm interested. It’s an idea from <<Tempest Judge>> after all, it’s not a simple game right?”

“Oi oi, <<Judge>>. What nonsense are you saying”

“Why not, <<Phantom>>? Rather than causing a bigger fuss in this place, I think it’s quite a peaceful way to settle things”

“Well, that’s true too but……….”

<<Phantom>> made a difficult face now that <<Silent Diva>>, who was quietly looking at the situation, agreed.

“Of course, if both <<Blaze Diabolica>>-sama and <<Equipment Smith>>-sama agrees then, I feel that it’s a good plan”

“Haaa, I get it. Go on, <<Judge>>”

“Since both sides brought many game pieces, how about we have them compete? Of course, there are going to be rules since it’s a game.

“That is an interesting idea. How about it, <<Equipment Smith>>-sama?”

“…………..Understood. I’ll make you understand, just who is better at making an excellent group”

Both sides were smiling----

At this moment, a game which can also be called a representative war was established.





After a little while, <<Phantom>> looked at the monitor that was going to display the outside situation, get brought into the room while sighing before mumbling to himself.

“<<Killing game>> huh………seriously, that’s one bloody name………well, let’s see how much you grown huh”

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==Translation Notes and References==

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