Saijaku Muhai no Bahamut:Volume 2 Capítulo 2

Capítulo 2 – Um mensageiro de Ymir

Parte 1

Três dias já haviam se passado desde que Lux se tornou o “namorado” de Krulcifer.

A fim de cumprir o “papel de namorado” solicitado por ela, eles continuaram a vida que se parecia com isso, já que praticavam juntos ou a dois, tanto quanto possível, e almoçavam juntos no refeitório.

Graças a isso, o constrangimento inicial de alguma forma desapareceu, mas—

“Ainda assim, tenho inveja da Krulcifer-san.”

“Mas foi ela quem ganhou o concurso, então não há como evitar.”

“Sim. É frustrante, mas eles ficam bem juntos. Seja aparência ou habilidade...”

Um dia depois da escola, quando essas vozes começaram a ser sussurradas entre as colegas de classe.

“Hoje depois disso, eu quero que você vá a um encontro comigo.”

Com seu sorriso frio de sempre, Krulcifer disse isso.

E ainda estava na sala de aula em que muitas colegas ainda estavam presentes, pois a aula havia acabado de terminar.

“E-Encontro!? Ou melhor, por que você está expressamente dizendo isso aqui!?”

“…………”

Sendo transformado em um sorriso apertado por Lisha em um canto da sala de aula, Lux protestou confusamente.

Mas Krulcifer agiu calmamente de forma sedutora e inclinou levemente a cabeça para o lado.

“Acaba de me ocorrer, então eu disse... Foi incômodo?”

“N-Não foi, mas...”

“Entendo, obrigado. Estou feliz.”

(N-Não é bom... Fui completamente tomado pelo ritmo dela.)

“Kuh, aguente, aguente...”

Eles saíram para o corredor deixando Lisha que murmurando resmungando isso na sala de aula.

Então, quando não havia sinais de outros alunos, Lux começou a falar.

“Hum, essa declaração agora, talvez tenha sido de propósito?”

“Claro. Se não fizermos adequadamente todos pensarem que é a ‘coisa real’, o mensageiro da Casa Einfolk que chegará em breve achará suspeito que seja uma farsa.”

“…………”

Para Krulcifer, que declarou suavemente, Lux não conseguiu dizer nada.

“Mas... Mesmo se você não for tão longe—”

Mesmo se for dito que um mensageiro virá da Casa Einfolk, ele iria tão longe a ponto de duvidar das palavras de Krulcifer e tentar coletar evidências?

“Você vai entender essas circunstâncias imediatamente. O encontro em si é verdadeiro, então vamos nos preparar um pouco.”

Enquanto respondia secamente à pergunta de Lux, Krulcifer disse isso na frente do dormitório.

Depois de voltar para seu quarto e preparar sua roupa, ele se encontrou com ela em frente ao portão da escola dez minutos depois.

“Primeiro, vamos comprar roupas.”

Eles deixaram as instalações da escola e caminharam pela rua principal do primeiro quarteirão.

À frente deles, depois de caminhar por cerca de 30 minutos, ficava a área comercial para clientes relativamente ricos, mesmo entre as Cidades Fortalezas.

Os estabelecimentos notáveis eram hotéis, restaurantes, lojas de alfaiates, mosteiros e instituições médicas gratuitas voltados para a classe alta.

Mansões imponentes construídas em um grande terreno estavam enfileiradas em um lugar onde Lux não aparecia tanto para trabalhos estranhos.

A Cidade Fortaleza também foi uma base importante para investigar as Ruínas.

Havia muitos nobres Drag-Knight vivendo nesta cidade, e havia muitos exemplos de até mesmo pessoas que moravam na Capital tendo construído uma residência secundária aqui.

Mesmo agora, quando o sistema mudou após a eclosão do golpe de estado há cinco anos, essas coisas permaneceram inalteradas.

Mas—

“É realmente interessante.”

Krulcifer caminhando ao lado dele de repente murmurou.

“Eh…?”

“Não é uma paisagem urbana tão rara, certo? Para você, um ex-Príncipe.”

Ela parecia ter dito isso quando viu Lux olhando ao redor com curiosidade.

“Você costuma ir a esses lugares, Krulcifer-san?”

“Eu raramente venho.”

A resposta de Krulcifer foi clara.

“Entendo. Acho que alguém como Krulcifer-san é mais adequado para a atmosfera de uma cidade tão refinada do que eu...”

Enquanto Lux olhava para seu perfil enquanto dizia tal coisa—

“Esse não é o caso. Afinal – eu odeio isso.”

“Eh…?”

Ainda olhando para frente, Krulcifer disse claramente.

“Eu não gosto de pessoas como aristocratas.”

“…………”

Depois disso, a conversa parou por um tempo.

(O que diabos ela quer dizer com isso...?)

Krulcifer era filha de um Conde de Ymir.

A razão pela qual ela, que era de uma família de prestígio, odiava os mesmos aristocratas.

Não acho que seja por algo tão simples como a antipatia por casamentos políticos convenientes.

“...Por aqui.”

Quando Lux pensou nisso, Krulcifer parou de repente.

Havia uma grande alfaiataria decorada com um lindo letreiro e entalhes.

“É uma loja que parece ser bastante cara.”

“Realmente? Eu pensei que você, ex-realeza, estava acostumado com essas coisas.”

Quando Krulcifer disse isso com um sorriso, Lux sorriu ironicamente.

“Vestir roupas bonitas na Corte Imperial é coisa do passado. Não me lembro mais.”

“Então, não parece ser tão agradável para você, hein. Então, vamos terminar isso o mais rápido possível.”

Dizendo isso, Krulcifer entrou na loja primeiro.

Lux a seguiu.

“…………”

Depois de medir o tamanho de seu corpo e escolher as roupas, eles fizeram o alfaiate consertar de acordo com seu tamanho.

E, uma hora depois.

“…Espere, foi a compra de minhas roupas!?”

Na paisagem urbana envolta no entardecer, Lux, que saiu da loja sem querer, chorou.

“Tenha certeza. Ao experimentá-los, você ficava muito bem com roupas formais. Como esperado de um ex-Príncipe.”

Krulcifer voltou com um sorriso como se fosse problema de outra pessoa.

“Quer você goste ou não – eu não posso aceitar coisas tão caras!”

Lux, que teve roupas formais compradas por Krulcifer, recusou apressadamente.

Combinaram com o alfaiate que as roupas estariam prontas depois de três dias, mas as taxas pareciam ter sido pagas antecipadamente.

“Você não precisa se importar. Está na faixa de fundos que posso usar livremente. Também não é uma grande quantidade.”

“…………”

Lux tinha acabado de comprar roupas que valiam a quantidade de dinheiro que ele gastaria em três meses durante o tempo em que fazia trabalhos estranhos, então ele mais uma vez percebeu que ela era afinal uma Ojou-sama¹.

Não, pode ser simplesmente que ele não apenas parecia um ex-Príncipe, mas––

“Nós nos demos ao trabalho de vir para a cidade, então vamos comer uma refeição e depois voltar? Eu vou pagar.”

Eles deixaram a área comercial de alta classe e chegaram a uma grande rua.

Provavelmente por causa do período em que estava escurecendo, não havia ninguém na vizinhança e estava escuro.

“H-Hum – como esperado, até eu posso pagar...”

Não importa quantas vezes ele foi feito para seguir apenas os planos de Krulcifer, Lux também tinha seu orgulho.

“Eu meio que gosto de lados masculinos de um garoto. Embora você geralmente tenha um rosto de menina...”

“I-Isso não tem nada a ver com isso, certo!?”

Já fazia muito tempo que sua aparência não era comentada, então o rosto de Lux ficou vermelho.

Naquela hora, quando a tensão diminuiu um pouco—

“…!? Cuidado!”

Ao mesmo tempo em que gritava, Lux saltou na direção de Krulcifer e a abraçou.

Em seguida, algo como um chicote se estendeu em alta velocidade e acertou o espaço vazio.

Em outras palavras, o espaço na rua onde Krulcifer estava até pouco tempo atrás.

Uma passagem ligeiramente afastada da área da classe alta.

Lux estava familiarizado com aquela arma que se estendia da sombra de uma casa vazia.

“Um chicote de arame…! Um Drag-Knight, hein!?”

Ele prontamente tirou seu Sword Device do <Wyvern> de sua cintura.

“Não se mexa! Se você se mover, eu atiro!”

Mas, quase ao mesmo tempo, cinco Drag-Rides que apareceram dos arredores tinham armado Breath Guns em direção a Lux e Krulcifer.

As cinco pessoas que operavam os Drag-Rides eram homens que cobriam suas cabeças com um pano.

Sua impressão rústica desconhecida lembrava totalmente os ladrões.

“Existem cinco <Drakes>, hein. Fomos descuidados...”

Krulcifer vendo aquilo ergueu ambas as mãos para se render.

Lux também a seguiu com relutância e colocou a espada a seus pés.

“Permaneçam assim. Não chame nenhum Drag-Ride. Em qualquer caso, vocês não podem escapar mais.”

Os <Drakes> - esses Drag-Rides chamados de Drag-Rides genéricos customizados, ao contrário dos outros dois tipos, tinham habilidades únicas.

Um deles era o poder de “camuflagem” que eles haviam usado agora.

Apaga o som e a luz da unidade e se esconde projetando levemente a paisagem do entorno.

Portanto, eles foram capazes de acertar a abertura de Lux e Krulcifer e dar o primeiro passo no centro da cidade.

“Bem, então vamos amarrar vocês, então vocês podem ficar quietos? Vai ser desconfortável, mas farei com que vocês aguentem.”

O homem da vanguarda disse isso na escuridão.

(O objetivo deles é um sequestro?)

(Eles provavelmente são bandidos visando Krulcifer, filha de um Conde.)

Quando Lux, que adivinhou silenciosamente, respirou fundo—

“É melhor você parar com isso.”

Ele falava assim com os homens.

“O que…?”

Diante da atitude de Lux que, longe de implorar por sua vida, não deu sinais de estar perturbado, o ladrão masculino proferiu uma voz duvidosa.

“Sim, você está certo, é melhor você parar com isso. Se você não quer se machucar, claro.”

Da mesma forma, Krulcifer ao lado dele também murmurou para o seguir.

“Fuhahahaha! É por isso que o povo aristocrata é... Vocês parecem não entender a realidade. Bem, está tudo bem. Pessoal, pegue-os rapidamente – gugah!?”

O homem na frente que começou a falar de repente caiu, inclinando-se para frente com seu Drag-Ride e gemeu.

“…O q!?”

Quando os outros Drag-Knights se enfrentaram, Lux pegou Krulcifer pela mão e começou a correr.

“E-Espere !?”

Os quatro <Drakes> restantes que viram aquilo se moveram com pressa.

Quando eles iam perseguir as duas pessoas para que não escapassem por uma passagem estreita—

“Errr. Vocês vão parar?”

Um enorme Drag-Ride roxo estava entre Lux e os homens.

“O que…!?”

Drag-Ride Divino <Typhon>.

Era um Drag-Ride do tipo terrestre especializado em combate de curta distância que, embora ambos os braços não estivessem equipados com armas, oprimia o inimigo no combate corpo a corpo com garras e punhos.

“Boa noite. Lu-chan.”

Sua amiga de infância que era a usuária daquele Drag-Ride chamou Lux.

“Philuffy... Você veio afinal.”

Quando Lux sorriu ironicamente e respondeu a ele—

“Ei, Lux! Eu também estou aqui, sabia!? Olhe aqui também!”

Lisha usando o <Chimeric Wyvern> já havia derrubado um Drag-Knight.

“Lisha-sama!”

“Por que vocês duas estão em um lugar assim?”

“N-Não... Hum, não é apenas uma coincidência? Não é como se estivéssemos preocupados com a relação entre vocês dois e te seguíssemos ou algo assim...”

“Ah, entendo...”

Quando Lux virou um rosto indescritível para Lisha, que desviou os olhos e corou, os três Drag-Rides conduzidos pelos homens restantes moveram-se simultaneamente.

“Existem apenas dois inimigos! Ataque-os e sequestre-os!”

Os <Drakes> respectivamente armaram suas lâminas de pequeno porte e atacaram <Typhon>.

Mas—

“Eeih.”

Ao contrário da voz calma, um punho rápido foi liberado por <Typhon>.

Um braço forte provavelmente duas vezes maior que um Drag-Ride comum.

O braço direito do <Drake> que segurava a lâmina que foi atingida por aquele punho foi pulverizado com um golpe.

“O-O queeeee...!?”

Na frente do homem que arregalou os olhos de surpresa, <Typhon> deu uma cambalhota.

O Drag-Ride, uma arma construída com estrutura de metal, acelerou com movimentos rápidos como uma fera.

E, um chute do Drag-Ride perfurou o corpo do Drake que ficou indefeso quando os braços foram destruídos.

“Ga... Hah!?”

O bandido foi enviado voando por uma dúzia de Mel atrás e desmaiou em agonia.

A barreira que foi implantada na potência máxima também foi quebrada e a conexão do Drag-Ride foi imediatamente cancelada.

“Uwah…!?”

Lux, vendo aquele estranho estilo de combate, não pôde evitar gritar.

“É a sua primeira vez? Assistindo diretamente como ela luta com seu <Typhon>.”

Krulcifer, que escapou para a sombra de um beco com Lux, perguntou isso.

“Philuffy. Então você pode fazer essas coisas...”

Ataques de luta corporal usando um Drag-Ride.

Então, ela pegou a lâmina de outro <Drake> com a mão do Drag-Ride desta vez e a esmagou em um instante. Ela lançou um soco com o outro braço quase simultaneamente e esmagou a armadura com um golpe.

Philuffy, que havia aprendido artes marciais, parecia ser bom no combate corpo a corpo.

Aquele ataque de bala humana que fez uso do peso e da potência, tinha o poder destrutivo de derrotar facilmente um Drag-Ride genérico, mesmo com defesa.

Um movimento tão flexível e rápido que dificilmente se pensava que ela estava usando uma armadura.

Lux nunca tinha visto um Drag-Knight usar um chute circular de artes marciais.

“E-Ela é um monstro, essa garota...!?”

O quinto bandido, cujos camaradas foram derrotados em um instante, começou a escapar usando seu <Drake>.

Quando o homem virou as costas enquanto escapava para o beco onde seria difícil persegui-lo com a grande estrutura de <Typhon>—

“<Pile Anchor>”

No mesmo instante em que Philuffy murmurou isso, um grosso fio cinza escuro foi disparado da armadura de ambos os braços de <Typhon>.

“O q!?”

Como o metal, que está na ponta do fio que veio voando, mordeu o <Drake> aberto como a mandíbula de uma grande cobra, o homem foi puxado para trás em alta velocidade diante de Philuffy.

“Isso é...!?”

“É o armamento especial do <Typhon>. À primeira vista, é uma arma de sistema de captura como o chicote de arame, mas parece que pode ser emitida de várias partes da armadura e pode capturar um inimigo dentro do alcance.”

Ao mesmo tempo que o <Pile Anchor>, que foi atirada com o braço esquerdo e pegou o inimigo, puxou-o para trás em alta velocidade, <Typhon> ergueu seu braço direito.

Quando o contra-ataque violento, que foi lançado enquanto atraía o oponente, estava prestes a estourar na frente de seus olhos—

“A-Ajuda...!?”

“Eu fui um pouco longe... Acho?”

*poof*- Philuffy cancelou a restrição do <Pile Anchor> e liberou o <Drake>.

Mas, o <Drake> que havia sido puxado para trás em alta velocidade tombou para o lado pela força da inércia e se chocou contra a parede – parou de se mover.

“Ei, menina avoada. Não baixe a guarda!”

Lisha gritou enquanto restringia os Drag-Knights cujas armaduras foram destruídas usando o <Chimeric Wyvern>.

“…Hã?”

No momento em que Philuffy voltou seu olhar para o Drag-Knight que ela havia derrotado, o homem não estava no <Drake>.

Quando ela olhou ao redor, o homem pode ser visto correndo por um beco enquanto cancelava a conexão.

Escapando depois de deixar de lado seu Drag-Ride – não.

Diante de onde o homem estava fugindo, uma mulher magra estava parada.

“N-Não se mova! Mulher aí...!”

Tirando uma faca da cintura, o bandido gritou.

Ele provavelmente queria mantê-la como refém.

“Cuidado!”

Lux involuntariamente gritou e estava prestes a correr para ajudá-la, mas—

“Não há necessidade de ajudá-la.”

Ele foi silenciosamente contido por Krulcifer com um olhar sério.

“Eh…?”

Enquanto isso, quando o bandido se aproximou da mulher e ia enfiar a faca em seu peito—

“É muito ruim, hein. A segurança deste país...”

*kin*! Logo depois que a mulher murmurou calmamente, a faca do bandido voou no ar.

“O q…!?”

“Por favor, não se mova. Caso contrário, minha mão escorregará.”

O bandido que caiu de costas no local teve a ponta de uma longa espada cravada em sua garganta.

Incontáveis linhas de prata corriam na superfície da longa espada empunhada pela mulher.

“Um Sword Device...!? Essa pessoa, quem seria...”

Ao mesmo tempo que Lux murmurou isso, a mulher com uma expressão fria ergueu o rosto calmamente.

“Há quanto tempo. Senhorita.”

“Eh…?”

Ao lado do confuso Lux, Krulcifer suspirou.

“Ela é uma conhecida minha. O mordomo da Casa Einfolk, Alterize McClair.”

“Então, talvez ela seja...?”

"Sim, ela é o mordomo da Casa Einfolk que veio ver como eu estou.”

“Podemos ir para outro lugar? Este lugar é impróprio para uma conversa.”

A mulher chamada Alterize sugeriu isso com calma.

“…………”

Após entregar os bandidos aos soldados da guarda que chegaram atrasados, Lux e companhia seguiram atrás de Alterize.

Part 2

About ten minutes after they walked away from the scene.

They decided to gather in a bar a little near the academy site and to have a light talk.

Although access to bars was not allowed in school regulations, Alterize said that she would take responsibility.

Lux, Krulcifer and Alterize sat on a table for three people, and Lisha and Philphie sat on the table immediately nearby.

The latter two should originally have nothing to do with the matter, but they ended up coming along due to the course of events.

“First of all, well. It is good above all to see you in good health, Miss. Is what I would like to say, but––”

Alterize glancing at Lux and the others, began to talk so.

The Einvolk House, a noble House of the religious country Ymir and a prestigious family which produced Drag-Knights in large number.

It seemed that she, who served as a butler, was herself an excellent Drag-Knight, and one of the strongest people called Ex-class in the country Ymir.

“There is no need for unnecessary concern just because we are in front of my classmates.”

As Krulcifer curtly said so, Alterize leaked a sigh.

“Well then, straight to the point. Please be a little more careful. Your body belongs to the Einvolk House.”

“Then, being targeted by thieves is also the fate of a prestigious family, so it can’t be helped.”

“…………”

In a tone mixed with sarcasm, Krulcifer returned like so to Alterize’s words which were somewhat disagreeable.

Lisha, who saw it, muttered “What is it? Are they on bad terms?” at the table nearby.

(But certainly, I feel like it’s a little different from a normal master-servant relation…)

Lux who was watching it also had the same impression.

Be it good or bad, it felt like there was no reservation towards each other.

“There‘s not much time before the curfew of the girl’s dormitory, so it will help if you make it short. The reason for you coming here is obvious anyway.”

“It is because Miss is insincere like that that I had to come here.”

To Krulcifer’s words, the woman butler returned in a strong tone.

The butler Alterize with a strict character and the somewhat elusive Krulcifer didn’t seem to have that good of a relationship.

(Alterize-san’s business which Krulcifer-san says is… after all)

While listening to their exchange, Lux recalled the circumstances until now.

Krulcifer’s mission in which she must find a fiancé during attendance at the academy.

About how he was asked to become her lover in order to deceive the attendant of the Einvolk House.

“By the way––, who is that man?”

Alterize suddenly said as she turned her gaze to Lux.

“He’s my lover. It’s great, isn’t it?”

“……!?”

The moment Krulcifer replied so, the shoulders of Lisha who was sitting nearby twitchily shook and she looked at their table.

“Your lover? That boy is…?”

Alterize asked with a dubious face.

“Yes. He may not be that familiar to you, but he is a Prince of the Old Empire, Lux Acadia. He is my classmate who commutes to the Royal Military Academy as the only male student there. Is there any problem?”

“…………”

“There is a problem. Lux will from now on in various ways–– Mmm…!?”

“I-I will listen to you later, so please be quiet for now.”

Alterize suspiciously stared at Lisha, who interjected from the table nearby, and Lux who held her mouth so as to calm her. And after heaving a deep sigh, she muttered.

“I see, that’s really troublesome, the truth is––”

“Well, well–– I was looked down upon, too.”

“……!?”

To the man’s voice uttered suddenly, all the people present gasped in surprise.

The man wearing a red, gorgeous overcoat with treated golden embroidery was standing behind Alterize.

A tall and thin man who let his limbs peep out from under the overcoat.

Although with his golden hair and upright face, he seemed to be a handsome man of gentle manners at first glance, but his slightly hypocritical smile and sharp eyes let one feel a somewhat overbearing atmosphere.

A knight with a strong confidence –– or rather, clad in an armor of ego.

If it was someone seeing it for the first time, nine out ten people would have such an impression.

Having appeared before Lux and company was such a man.

“Lord Kreutzer!? Why are you here? I am sure that the dinner was scheduled for tomorrow, but––”

“Yes, it isn’t like I’ve forgotten. Alterize-dono.”

The man called so returned a smile to the surprised Alterize.

“I may not look like it, but I’m an annoying guy about fixed dates, you see. ––But yes, if I dare to speak about my shortcomings, I’m a little bit impatient. I want to see the girl who will become my wife in the future one step earlier.”

*grin* Twisting the edges of his lips, he turned his face to Krulcifer.

As he let his look crawl from her head to her toes as if licking her all over, the man satisfactorily nodded.

“Ooh. She’s really a beauty as the rumors say. I may not look like it, but I’ve showed up several times to the social parties of the Capital, but–– I’ve never seen such a beautiful girl. Your bodily build is slightly modest, but I look forward to your growth.”

“I am honored that you praise her.”

Replying so was Alterize.

“Alterize. Who is this person?”

As Krulcifer asked so with a cold expression,

“I see. It looks like you had not yet talked this through. Well then, I will give my name. My name is Barzeride Kreutzer.”

“……!?”

The moment when they heard the man’s words, tension ran through Lux and Lisha –– no, throughout the whole bar including the customers around.

“…Don’t tell me, one of the four Great Nobles!?”

“Why is the “Titleholder of the Kingdom” here––?”

As several people inside the bar realized his identity, they turned their gazes with low voices.

“You mean Kreutzer of that House?”

Alterize nodded at Krulcifer’s question.

“One of the four Great Noble Families with historical lineage which continues to this day since the Old Empire era. Particularly, it is a noble household which produces many knights and Drag-Knights from generation to generation. This gentleman is its heir.”

(If I remember correctly, the Kreutzer House is––)

Lux recalled after a little thought.

It was indeed a well-known noble House as a noble, but at the same time it was famous as the hawks of the Old Empire.

Regarding pedigree, influence and fortune, it was an outstanding House even in the New Kingdom.

But, the whole family’s way of thinking virtually inherited the Old Empire’s ideas, and Lux had not heard that many good rumors about them from the past.

“An heir of the four Great Nobles…? Alterize, don’t tell me you––”

Krulcifer who heard this slightly knitted her brows.

“Yes. While very selfish, I went ahead with the talk to introduce Miss to Lord Kreutzer by the dinner that I had scheduled for tomorrow, and have you exchange an engagement there. But––”

“Why didn’t you inform me, the person concerned, of that?”

As Krulcifer asked in an amazed tone,

“It is because if I do not do at least this much, Miss will give a reason again and run away.”

Alterize calmly replied without being shy.

It looked like although the relation between the two girls was not good, they knew each other’s personality very well.

In short, seeing through the action of Krulcifer of avoiding the engagement by giving a reason one way or another, Alterize seemed to have scheduled to bring the fiancé she personally chose.

Thanks to that, it became quite a chaotic situation.

“I see. But, it’s really a shame. As you see, now I have a man I’m going out with. Isn’t it? Lux-kun.”

“Eh…? Ah, yes. Kind of––”

Lux became confused as the subject was brought forth by Krulcifer.

“Lux…? Ah, I see. That appearance–– so you’re a survivor of the Old Empire’s royalty. This is the first time we exchanged words directly like this, eh.”

Barzeride who was quiet until then approached Lux.

After staring at his face for a while, he slowly opened his mouth.

“Hmm… It’s a weak look hardly thinkable of someone from former royalty. As expected of a dog which was let to live by the New Kingdom’s amnesty. ––You’re really worthy to be called the Chore Prince.”

“…………”

A smile and tone containing contempt.

As Lux remained calm even when being shown such clear hostility,

“Alterize-dono. Is there really a need to postpone this engagement because of a man of this level?”

Barzeride added so as to incite him.

“Certainly, he is from the former royal family. In such a meaning, he may have a lot of influence in various places, but now he’s just an unsightly fallen Prince. He’s a man only living by receiving others’ leftovers. I judge that he isn’t a man worthy of the lineage of the country Ymir’s prestigious family that you serve, the Einvolk family”

“Certainly, that is––”

The moment when Alterize was pressed and was about to consent,

“Haa. Even if you claim to be from the four Great Nobles, it’s only to this degree after all.”

A girl’s dignified voice suddenly cut off the conversation.

The voice was from Lisha sitting at the nearby table.

“To think that you can’t even see through the worth of the man before you. I’m really glad for having the number of rivals decrease, but could you refrain from such a rude tone? Lord Kreutzer.”

After talking with a proud smile, Lisha scowled at the two people at last.

Though he did not seem to be overwhelmed by it, Barzeride shot back a gaze.

“If I remember correctly, you’re––”

“First Princess of the New Kingdom, Lizsharte Atismata. Lux is the man who is going to become my partner. If you dare to insult him, then I will riposte.”

After Barzeride remained silent for several seconds to Lisha’s sharp words,

“…Kukuku. Hahahahaha!”

He suddenly burst into laughter.

“What’s so funny?”

“What do we have here… so that’s it. It looks like the fallen Prince of the Old Empire is quite good at currying girls’ favors. However –– the era from here on will be one of battles(fighting). Powerful people who destroy the appearing Abysses and win against other countries in the fight for ruins are sought above all. And we, the royalty and titled nobility, must excel at the skill in operating Drag-Rides. The power as a Drag-Knight and strength as a leader are sought above all else.”

Prefacing so, Barzeride once again turned his face towards Lux.

“Unfortunately, I’m on an entirely different level from this man. It’s a waste of time. Alterize-dono, I would like you to arrange the engagement as soon as possible, even tomorrow would work.”

“Yes. ––Then tomorrow night as scheduled.”

When Alterize was going to settle so,

“Could you wait for a moment?”

Holding back Lisha who was about to complain again, Krulcifer said so.

“Hou. What’s the matter? Do you want to talk with me? My future wife.”

“From here on, power as a Drag-Knight and power as a leader are above all else. You said so, right?”

“Yes, the Einvolk House also thinks so. Therefore, Lord Kreutzer who is from the four Great Nobles and the “Titleholder of the New Kingdom” is suitable as a fiancé––”

“Is that really so?”

As she interrupted Alterize’s words, Krulcifer revealed a smile.

“What do you mean?”

“If it’s about skill as a Drag-Knight, my lover doesn’t lose, too. Because he is the “Weakest Undefeated” famous at the New Kingdom’s tournaments after all.”

“Fuhahahahaha!”

Barzeride who heard that burst into laughter once again.

“The “Weakest Undefeated”, huh. Now that you mention it, there was also such a shameful nickname, eh. But –– my future wife. Wise as you are, you understand, right? That a coward who only defends himself can’t gain anything.”

“But, in the tournament of the Capital, it isn’t like you also won against him, right?”

“What…?”

“And, could you please stop that way of calling me “my future wife”? You and I are still just strangers.”

“…………”

The expression of Barzeride who heard that suddenly changed into a dangerous one.

“Lord Kreutzer. Please excuse her rudeness––”

When Alterize was hurriedly going to intercede,

“I see. Isn’t the Einvolk House’s daughter quite a capable person. I like you more and more, Krulcifer.”

Distorting his mouth into an arc, Barzeride remained composed.

But, Lux knew.

That behind his expression, apparently calm at first glance, a quiet anger burned.

“Well then, let’s see. How about a match between me and that fallen Prince? A duel with Drag-Rides, that is.”

“––––”

At Barzeride’s words, tension ran within the store.

“L- Lord Kreutzer, that’s––”

When Alterize uttered so in surprise,

“Certainly, it looks like you didn’t inform her of the talk of engagement. It’s your fault for not having gotten her consent on this matter. However, there is no way she would consent if you forcibly concluded an engagement here, right? After showing my ability, the marriage would go smoothly.”

Sending a gaze at Krulcifer as if asking, Barzeride said.

His intention of wanting to make this stubborn, yet smart girl yield on this occasion was transparent and visible.

“To the fight this time, there will be no “draw”, but you don’t possibly intend to run away, do you, Fallen Prince?”

“…………”

Being provoked, Lux hesitated to speak.

Thinking about the future, he mustn’t stand out too much.

He understood that well.

But,

“––Understood. I’ll do it.”

After a slight hesitation, Lux nodded.

If he did not accept the duel here, the engagement between Krulcifer and Barzeride would’ve almost been decided.

He could not use <Bahamut>, but he had no choice but to do it.

“No, I cannot afford to cause Lord Kreutzer trouble…”

When Alterize could not consent and was about to interject as such,

“On this occasion, why don’t you also participate in the duel?”

Krulcifer suggested so calmly.

“…What do you mean?”

“It will not look good if I, the person concerned and you, the person in charge who approached with this matter are just spectators. We might as well make it a duel of two vs. two altogether; how is that?”

“W-What are you saying now!? Please stop with the joke! Do you think that Lord Kreutzer would ride on this––”

“It does not fit my nature to just be waiting for the result like a commodity.”

As Krulcifer said so without hesitation,

“Kukuku, I don’t mind.”

Barzeride readily consented with a fearless smile.

“Isn’t it good, Alterize-dono? A fight without grudge is the very purpose of the duel. Besides, I’m a pacifist, but there are often times when I want to go all out. After all in the tournament of the Capital, I instinctively hold back so that there are no injured.”

He extended his hand to the hilt of the sheathed Sword Device and swung it with a clank.

Probably, a Divine Drag-Ride was stored in the scabbard with a showy ornament.

“It’s regrettable for tomorrow’s dinner, but we’ll cancel it. Then, let’s say the night three days later. I’ll prepare the place for the duel. On the account of work, I’m staying at the Fort City for a while. Don’t run away.”

When only saying that, Barzeride let his luxurious overcoat flutter and left the bar.

“…………”

A flaccid atmosphere flowed before long and bustle returned to inside the bar.

“Phew…”

As Lux, whose strain loosened, sighed,

“You two, do you know what you have done?”

Alterize frowned with a tone so as to admonish them.

“Not only did you reject the engagement, but on top of that –– you also challenged a member of the four Great Nobles to a duel. You carried your joke too far. Lord Kreutzer possesses the Divine Drag-Ride <Aži Dahāka> and is skilled enough to be called “Titleholder of the New Kingdom” in the Capital, you know?”

Barzeride boasted of the record of last year’s third rank in the tournament of the Capital.

Lux who had similarly appeared in the tournament also knew that, but––

“If it’s a Divine Drag-Ride, I also have <Fafnir>. There is no need to be so afraid, right?”

Looking at Krulcifer who showed no signs of being perturbed, Alterize anxiously held down her head.

And after several seconds, she raised her face.

“I understand. However, that person’s ability as a Drag-Knight ––and his influence is something clear even in the New Kingdom now. And it looks like I have also spoiled you too much.”

“Spoiled me? You were just afraid of touching the tumor, right? Same as the people in that House––”

“…………”

At Krulcifer’s smile which mixed sarcasm, Alterize tightened her expression.

As she quietly stood up from her seat, she put some money tickets on the table.

“I will leave it as it is for tonight. I will show no mercy in this fight with you two.”

Saying just that, the woman dressed as a butler left the bar.

(What on earth did she mean by “the people in that House”––?)

Lux wondered whether anything happened between the Einvolk House and Krulcifer in the past.

A strange silence flowed among Lux and the others.

“It’s almost the time of curfew. Let’s go back already for today.”

To Krulcifer’s words emitted before long, Lux and company decided to go back.

Part 3

“––Just a while ago, I did something bad to you, Lux-kun.”

Krulcifer muttered so as the four people were on their way back walking to the academy side by side.

At her unusually depressed voice, Lux hurriedly shook his head.

“No… But more importantly, are you really fine with that?”

The mission of engagement imposed on Krulcifer.

Though he had certainly heard about it, Lux was inwardly surprised at the emotional resistance that did not seem like her who was always calm.

“I see, in other words Krulcifer didn’t want a political marriage of convenience and asked Lux to play the role of her lover, huh. Thank god… I’m now relieved.”

Lisha stroked her chest as she felt relieved and then cocked her head in puzzlement.

“But, that butler ––Alterize was it? For a mere butler, she is impudent, or rather she was a somewhat strange fellow.”

“…………”

Lux also felt it.

Even disregarding the point that it was a strict noble family, he felt like that butler and Krulcifer did not have the ordinary master/servant relation for some reason.

That it was something which was not a mere intimate or bad relationship.

“Don’t mind it. Alterize has been like that since long ago after all. That aside, you saved me by accepting the duel proposed by Lord Kreutzer.”

Krulcifer smiled and looked at Lux walking beside her.

Being stared at by her transparent, beautiful pupils, Lux’s heart could not help pounding.

“M-More importantly, is it all right? A duel with those two…”

“Although I was calm at that time, it’s really troublesome, eh. If you could use that Divine Drag-Ride, there would have been no problem, but––”

The “Black Hero” who destroyed the Old Empire five years ago.

Lux could not afford to let Barzeride and Alterize know that he was <Bahamut>’s user.

Moreover, in terms of strength the opponent this time was in no way comparable to the temporary instructors a few days ago.

On one hand, an Ex-class’s Drag-Knight prominent even in the large country Ymir of the North.

On the other hand, a Drag-Knight who was the user of the Divine Drag-Ride <Aži Dahāka> and the third rank in the tournament of the Capital.

Even if it was a pair with Krulcifer who had the Divine Drag-Ride <Fafnir>, it could be said that it would be fairly tough to fight only with a <Wyvern> against those two people as opponents.

“What, there’s no need to be afraid. Lux was able to defend with his <Wyvern> even against my <Tiamat> as the opponent. Then, other male Drag-Knights whose Machine Dragon aptitude values are low should soon be worn out if you gain time.”

“It will be good if it goes like that––”

Lux somehow guessed the meaning of Krulcifer’s words, too.

In the tournament of the Capital, the battle time is a little short and rules had been established to be advantageous to men.

There were traces of the rules established in the Old Empire era, but even if deducting it, it seemed that Barzeride would handle a Divine Drag-Ride without difficulty.

Therefore, now that the Old Empire was destroyed, he’s called the “Titleholder of the New Kingdom” as a leading figure of the new era.

Lux did not know about <Aži Dahāka>’s Divine Raiment, except its name <Avestā >.

Moreover, it was a duel where he could not aim for a draw this time.

Fighting under such conditions, even Lux also felt somewhat uneasy.

“You don’t get angry, huh.”

As he was lost in such thoughts, Krulcifer beside him suddenly muttered so.

“Eh…?”

“Normally, you will be angry for having been dragged into such a duel. Even though you are not a real lover––”

“No… It’s something I said myself after all.”

Honestly speaking, Even Lux didn’t know why he had decided to accept the duel at that time.

He would probably be scolded by his little sister Airi for that.

“Thank you. I will say so first for the time being.”

But, Lux did not regret anything.

Rather, he thought that he wanted to know more about Krulcifer who thanked him shyly.

“All right! Well then, let’s hurry back at once; I will strengthen Lux’s <Wyvern>. This time for sure, for the specification of attack specialization––”

“Ah, you don’t need to do that…”

As Lux returned a serious look and shook his head,

“Kuh! T-Then… I will equip it with a special hidden function which I had thought about since some time now––”

“You know?”

Philphie who had been tagging along in silence until now muttered with a serious look.

“If we don’t hurry, the curfew will pass.”

“Eeeeeeh!?”

They looked at each other and unintentionally cried out.

They hurriedly ran back, but in the end they did not make it in time.

In the early morning of the following day, the four people received the punishment of cleaning duty.

Part 4

That night when Lux and company were hurrying on their way back, a meeting was held.

Sitting on the seats of a round table illuminated by a chandelier were seven men and women dressed in dresses, formal clothes or military uniform.

The three people who sat down at the head of the table were Queen Raffi, the Prime Minister and the vice-commander of an army of the New Kingdom.

The remaining four people were the most prominent Dukes called the Four Great Nobles.

Family heads of prestigious families which governed the territories of the Old Empire for a long time, and held great influence and power even afterwards.

There was a big middle-aged man with a good complexion, a white bearded old man whose eyes became hollow like a skeleton, a gentleman in his prime with well-ordered features and, a long-haired man who put on a dark red overcoat with an ornament of steel.

That room where the New Kingdom’s influential people gathered together was filled with solemn tension.

“I wonder how many years it has been since we were all summoned like this.”

The old man’s hoarse voice first broke the silence.

“Isn’t it since the New Kingdom's establishment? I almost forgot your faces. After all, business is going well in my territory.”

“At any rate. Does this mean that Her Majesty the Queen needs our help?”

Ignoring the middle-aged man who responded with a joke, the man in his prime summarized.

The Queen who was asked calmly nodded and urged the Prime Minister beside her.

“It is the matter of the letter sent to you two months ago. Regarding the Heiburg Republic and its three allied countries.”

“Don’t tell me it’s still the incident due to that black marketer? I heard that not only did he circulate a large quantity of Drag-Rides to the Heiburg Republic, but for some reason, he has also wholesaled suspicious devices (tools) even in this country, but––”

To the old man’s voice, the Prime Minister shook his head and answered.

“It is not about that. It is about the Ragnarok this time.”

Hearing that, the middle-aged man raised his face.

“Ragnarok, huh. I have heard about it several times from the Old Empire era, but to think it really existed.”

Ragnarok.

There are seven Abysses which concealed paranormal power of which it’s said that there exists only one for each of the ruins.

It was said that the legendary class monster whose hugeness and strength were on an entirely different level from a common Abyss erased several towns and villages in the territory eight years ago in the Old Empire era and moreover, destroyed territories of other countries and even small countries themselves.

However, because it was an event which the Old Empire’s administration had kept secret, only a restricted number of persons knew that truth even now.

“I see. So you are trying to say that on top of this, the evidence about the Ragnarok’s existence, that was said to have appeared from the ruins of our country, was collected?”

To the words of the man in his prime, the Prime Minister nodded with a bitter face.

The serious damage which one Ragnarok, released after the Old Empire wrenched the ruins open, once brought upon every place in the world. The responsibility of that was demanded to the New Kingdom several years after the Old Empire was destroyed.

On the occasion of the coup d’état five years ago, one of the government officials who fled into a foreign country spread a document of the Old Empire related to the Ragnarok, and the Heiburg Republic which took that proof had impeached the New Kingdom.

“The Heiburg Republic was originally a major power second to the Old Empire. They have a big influence in the neighboring countries now. If we reject this appeal, let alone the three allied countries, we will make enemies of the whole world, right?”

“Thus we shall discuss a counter-measure–– huh? But, wasn’t the Ragnarok’s subjugation completed seven years ago?”

“It seems that it’s temporarily petrified and is just lying dormant. According to the scout’s reports, the petrifaction of the Ragnarok which is at the Lidneth seashore has begun to melt gradually a few months ago. Therefore––”

“Do you want to say that they want us to engage it once again?”

“The Heiburg Republic demands of us the Ragnarok’s subjugation. However, it’s too dangerous to fight the Ragnarok, which was finally put to sleep after cooperating with other countries even in those days, with only the New Kingdom's army.”

“Even if we make the small number of high level Drag-Knights strike all together, the odds of victory will probably be small. As expected, Divine Drag-Rides’ users have to lead the subjugation unit––”

When they reached that conclusion, silence rose for a while.

They understood even without any words.

That the Ragnarok’s subjugation was accompanied with a high death risk.

And that there was no suitable “Hero” which could settle it in the current New Kingdom.

“––In that case, I will send my son.”

“…Lord Kreutzer!?”

Not having uttered a single word despite being there, the man who remained silent spoke.

That man which wore the ornament of steel on his body and emitted an unusual intimidating air was named Warg Kreutzer.

“My son has a Divine Drag-Ride called <Aži Dahāka> which he obtained one year ago. He’s also skilled at handling it and has enough ability to be ranked third in the tournament of the Capital. I think that he is qualified enough to be the commanding officer, but what do you think? Your Majesty, the Queen Raffi.”

Queen Raffi was cautious (looked out) to Warg Kreutzer who talked with a fearless smile.

Among the Four Great Nobles, certain black rumors did not die out about the Kreutzer House.

Dangerous rumors such as whether this great Noble who possessed a vast territory and was followed by many private soldiers was not originally scheming for a takeover of the Old Empire.

“We cannot afford to expose Her Highness Princess Lizsharte to danger. Please, leave this matter to this subordinate.”

“––Understood.”

Queen Raffi finally nodded to Warg who suggested this while exaggeratedly bowing his head.

At the same time, Warg revealed a smile as if to say that he was waiting for this time.

“However, for this important task where I’m likely to lose not only the Drag-Knights of my territory, but also my son and his Divine Drag-Ride, aside from war funds, soldiers, and Machine Dragons, I think I would also like to have a certain reward.”

“That’s––”

“It’s the full authority on the Atismata New Kingdom army. I would like you to give me the position of General on the occasion when my son Barzeride achieves the mission.”

With eyes full of ambition, Warg said so.

References

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