Seikoku no Ryuu Kishi: Volume 2 Chapter 4

Chapter 4 - Avdocha the Convicted

Part 1

Early in the morning, Ash put on his uniform, rushed out of airship Silvanus straight to school.

Since he has obtained Veronica’s permission last night, the guards in charge did not stop Ash.

On the way there, Ash did not encounter Captain Glenn. Of course, Ash also simply did not want to meet him.

By quickly running up the stairs, he finally arrived at the Student’s Council’s office.

"I’m entering."

Without hesitation, he opened the door, and then an object like a cannon flew into his arm.

"Oh! ......Eco?"

Eco’s body is soft.

Yesterday, she probably went to Rebecca's room to stay for the night. A sweet scent that will not made you tired of it which will made you feel refreshed can be smelled.

"Any-Anything?"

Eco’s attitude made Ash feel troubled. That feeling is like a pet and its owner that has been separated in two different places for a long time, and it leaped at its owner when he appeared.

The thing that he didn’t understand is does Eco have the kind of feelings? They didn’t met for only one night...... and her personality becomes so docile?

"It is annoying that you are so slow…..."

Eco buried her face in Ash’s chest and is reluctant to let go. Not only so did not let go, there is also signs that she is hugging him a lot more tightly. The heat form her is transferring to Ash body.

If only so, then he can let it be. After Eco grabbed Ash’s tie she pulled him to right in front of her face.

"S-Slow down, wait... my neck is going to break ...!"

Ash quickly put his finger into the gap between tie and neck, which barely enable him to breath, at least he is now free from the danger of suffocating.

What is wrong with Eco early in the morning?

Her cheeks are bright pink, and her eyes are watery.

Ash is struggling, but Eco continue to attack.

"Huff ......"

After making the cute sound, Eco’s feet is warping him up.

Her leg in knee socks feet slid in between Ash thighs. The moment her soft thigh came into contact with his crotch, Ash’s whole body shivers.

"No ......my body is so hot ... I can’t stand it any longer."

Eco gasped, she is tugging Ash’s tie while lifting up her body.

Her half opened lips moving towards Ash’s cheek -

"Uwaa!"

Extending her tongue, she gently licked Ash’s cheek. Like a dragon who wants to be spoil by its master.

"...... Ah?"

At this moment, Ash spotted something – from Eco mouth there is a rose like smell.

"You...... Show me the inside!"

"Is this......alright!"

"Is this......alright!"

The usual Eco will ignore Ash’s order. But this morning it is as if she is now a different person. Her cheeks are getting redder and she stares at Ash’s face.

Being flirt by her eyes, Ash saw Eco actually gently lifted her miniskirt.

"... Huh?"

For a moment, Ash could not understand what was happening right in front of him.

"You ...!"

Ash almost falls backwards.

The thing sticking at Eco’s pure white skin, almost cause he awareness to drift away. That underwear is embellished with a lot of lace, it is designed for adults.

Suddenly he came back to his sense, Ash obstinately hold Eco’s hands.

"What are you doing, you fool! I'm not saying about the skirt, it is the mouth!"

"Umm... I know..."

Eco with a flushed face opens her mouth halfway.

Behind her pearl white teeth, a pink tongue can be seen.

"So this stuff is the culprit!"

On Eco’s tongue a round candy.

A strong Ansal smell went into his nostrils.

Even though Ansals are harmless to humans, but it brings a strong effect to the dragons. Like dinking alcohol is for humans, Ansal’s smell bring pleasure for dragons.

The problem is that Eco is only a young dragon. Even with only a small amount of Ansal, the result it brings is hard to predict.

"Come on, quickly spit it out!"

"Nn....”

Eco exhale a mouthful of heat, and firmly grasp Ash’s tie.

Don’t take Eco as just a petite girl, her strength is still like a dragon.

Ash unable to do anything, he can only let her pull him- Eco with this, blocked Ash half-opened mouth with her lips

At the same time, Eco’s tongue breaks past the barrier.

"...!"

The two sticky and slippery tongues tangled.

The unimaginable shock makes Ash’s mind go blank, transfixed in his place.

"Tee hee..."

Eco revealed a devil like smiled and slowly to avert her face, during that time, the candy has rolled to Ash’s mouth.

The mouth-fed candy has melt into half of its original volume, Eco’s body temperature still remains on the candy.

Ash was entire entranced.

"You… just now ..."

His face is hot as if flame is going to burst out from it.

At the start Ash is concentrating too much on the mouth-fed candy. That is why only until now, Ash only found out their lips are sticking tightly together.

According to that, ain’t is not his and Eco’s first kiss?

"Nn....”

Eco suddenly like a puppet whose string is broken, fell on.

She buried her face in Ash’s arms and fell into a deep sleep. Seemed like the drunken Eco has finally fell asleep.

"Really ...... she only knew how to give people headaches."

Just as Ash breathed a sigh of relief -

".....In the stand of a human and a dragon, your behaviour just does not sound healthy."

"Uwaaa!"

Hearing a surprisingly calm voice, Ash was shocked.

- Glup!

The candy in his mouth is accidentally swallowed.

"...... Rebecca! When are you here?"

Rebecca leisurely crosses her arms in front of her chest standing in the doorway. Her face is wearing snappish smile.

"Do you even need to ask, of course is during Eco ran out of the room."

"Isn’t that you are her from the start to the end? Why do you stand on the side-lines and do not come for my help!"

"Well that scene very exciting Oh, Ash by the way, that underwear Eco is wearing belongs to me."

"Yikes ...!"

After hearing that, Ash cannot help but think about Eco’s exposed underwear.

Those laces flooded his whole mind, the material should be silk, right? He remembers the top is with a unique gloss. It turn out that Rebecca usually wear those kind of underwear - after a bunch of imagination, Ash came back to his sense.

"Hey! That is not the point! I would like to know why Eco’s mouth stuffed with a candy."

"Ahh, you mean that? That is my self-prepared personal snack. When she saw me licking it on my palm, Eco came and beg for one. I saw her eager face, how can I heartlessly refuse? "

"Rebecca, even when you knew the Ansal herb will have a negative effect on Eco, why do you continue to let her eat?"

"Huu? ... I do not understand what you mean by that."

Rebecca exposed playful smile and hide inside her room.

Part 2

Rebecca looked at the face of all those who are present.

"Then let the meeting begins. Silvia will not be present for today’s meeting...... so is there only three people left?"

She was right, right now, the ones who are sitting around the table are Rebecca, Max and Ash the trio. By the way, Eco is lying on the couch.

The Vice president and the secretary still seems like do not intend to attend this morning.

"Right...... didn’t it feel a little lonely?”

After Ash stated, Rebecca looked at him ridiculously.

"Any problem with it, Ash? Are you so lonely when Silvia is not here? Is Rebecca onee-san not enough to satisfy you?"

"How could I dare to think so!"

Ash was too nervous to know what to do next, Max beside him was also shocked but he interrupts:

"President, we have do not have time. Please do not tease Ash anymore and quickly began the meeting."

"Hmm, you’re right. Every time I saw Ash, I could not help but just want to make fun of him."

Rebecca with a bitter smile returns back to the topic.

"As you have heard, Princess Veronica condolences trip is going to be held this afternoon. Actually...... we must represent the academy’s students to accompany the Princess."

Ash senses something bad.

"The people who are going to accompany the Princess must be Max, Ash, Eco and me. This is Princess Veronica’s orders, we do not have the right to refuse."

Just like what he sense, his feeling is right.

"Princess Veronica has many enemies. If someone attempts to assassinate the Princess, they certainly will not miss this great opportunity. Even though there is the seven escorts who are in charge of the security, still we could not neglect precautionary measures. We as a mere Dragner must also be mentally prepared to be able to protect the Princess when there is danger. "

"Please, may I ask ..."

Ash timidly raised his hand.

"Is there any problem, Ash?"

“Rebecca-san, you are not a 'mere', but a dignified Ark-Dragner, and Max is also an outstanding Dragner, but I'm just a humble breeder.”

"What nonsense are you talking about? Didn’t you also have the famous title 'Silver Knight'?"

"... That kind of title I don’t even want it even when you give it to me for free."

"But I think that it is suitable for you. Back to the topic... the next thing is the main point."

After the changed the topic, Rebecca exposed a serious expression and pass the information on her hand to Ash and Max.

That is commonly known as 'Wanted'.

The entire sheet of paper is full of the details of the criminal’s characteristics and looks.

The reward offered actually reaches up to one million Eccles. Compare to the normal reward amount this one is too much excessive.

"We received some information from a certain party that 'Avdocha the Convicted' has infiltrated Ansarivan. Everyone please be very careful.-

Part 3

The revival operations is well underway, the hustle and bustle noises is sounded in St Durham’s Square one after another.

The sound of the roaring man supervisor.

The Sturdy frame operator’s loud cry.

The knocking sounds of the hammers.

- The Necromancia’s attacks had since been a full two weeks.

The Square that has been razed to ruins, today, and the revival operation is going on smoothly.

Airship Silvanus landed slowly from above the square.

Right after alighted from the airship safely, Veronica immediately with a loud voice announced to the public:

"Dear countrymen, thanks for your hard work!"

On recognizing the heroic Veronica, the scene is suddenly full of cheers.

"Wow, it is Princess Veronique Her Royal Highness!"

"To even think that of Her Royal Highness will actually come to a place like this..."

"That armour really looks valiant!"

Every workers stop doing their work, they are all moved and full of tears. However, Veronica just stare at them fiercely.

"Who allow you to rest! Why are you bothering with my existence, immediately continue with your work!"

Veronica's loud voice, even the earth would shake, furthermore, the Asias that were brought to the construction site are also shivering.

"Yes, Princess!"

Although all the workers are some burly, self-confident brawny, but now, all of them feel particularly vulnerable, and hurried to resume their own work.

This sense is more like a strict supervisor who came rather than a condolences visit. Ash beside Veronica cannot help but laugh bitterly.

Rebecca, Max, Ash and Eco the four of them follow with the arrangements made in the meeting this early morning. They are accompanying Veronica as the student representative.

"Hmm... there is something strange."

Eco from the start is looking around aimlessly.

Did she found out something unusual using her dragon’s intuition? If it is so, the situation they are in wil be a serious one, it is most likely an enemy of Veronica.

Eco? Is there anything suspicious? "

Ash with a nervous voice asks Eco, but she then revealed an extremely unhappy expression.

"The crepe stall is gone."

"... Hu?"

"I said, I can’t find the stall selling crepes!"

Ash is dumbstruck. What Eco like to eat most is non-other than the crepes sold in the stall selling crepe in St Durham Square.

"You tell me ...... which Crepe boss will do his business in this construction site?"

"Wuhu...... my crepes ..."

Eco is so disappointed until she exposed a dejected expression, there is tears in her eyes whirling.

"Really… I can’t stand you any longer, the boss must have move his stall to the other parts of the streets. Later we will look for it together, alright?"

"Really?"

Once she had heard this, Eco immediately managed to smile dazzlingly.

"…...!"

Her smile is like a full bloom rose, which made Ash cannot help but stare at it deeply.

"Anything?"

Right after Eco confusedly ask, only then Ash came back to his sense, with an act up attitude he clear throat.

"No, nothing......"

In short, his bribery has been successful, Eco will temporarily quite down. After all, he is now playing the role of Veronica’s guard with a heavy responsibility. Just in case this job was messed up by Eco, it is hard for him to make sure that his head is still on his neck. Using crepes to exchange the safety of his head, this price is nothing.

"Hmm, using the strength of an Asia? A breeder who chooses to be a civil engineer is really rare."

"Y-Yes, I’m just lucky!"

When Ash is trying to get Eco to calm down, at the same time, Veronica’s condolences trip is also carried out smoothly.

Apart from the square, the surrounding buildings have also been damaged by the Necromancia, which is why there are many carpenters there right now workers.

The carpenter Veronica is talking to seems to be a breeder, at the side a Asia can be seen pulling a trolley.

When facing Veronica, the fierce looking carpenter due to excessive fear makes his looks very nervous. This scene is really amusing.

Looking at that the kind of laid-back scene, Ash suddenly remembered the name that Rebecca brought out in the meeting.

--‘Avdocha the Convicted'

According to the report, she has the blood of a Tantalos. In her early age, she has been doing guerrillas activities in the mountains, later on she wove out from the mountain and involved in terrorist attacks across the continent, she is very famous for her anti-establishment activity.

But five years ago, in fourteen-city the capital city, after Veronica’s assassination end in failure, she was never seen again.

Some report stated that, such activist is likely to stage a comeback for Veronica. Of course, the credibility of those reports is yet to be verified, but still they must be prepared for the worst.

"Hey, Eco."

Ash gathers his nerve and whisper in Eco’s ears.

"... What’s the problem?"

"In case that I ran into a dangerous situation, could you make me the Ark?"

"Well, do you even want that kind of patch up work? I don’t mind, but there will be conditions-

"Alright, alright, No matter how much of crepe want to eat, I’ll buy it for you."

Except the ansal flavour crepes... When Ash in his heart silently added, the church bell nearby rang.

That is the bell to indicative one o’clock in the afternoon.

"Is it already so late…...."

Listening to the solemn bell, Silvia's face suddenly emerges in Ash's mind.

The building around St Durham Square has more than one church.

At this time Silvia should comply with Veronica's command by offering her prayers in the St Valeria’s church for repentance.

Just when Ash takes Silvia’s feeling into account and his mood is depressed, something happened.

-Boom!

At the other end of the square suddenly a sound of explosions is heard.

"W-What happened?"

Ash surprised, looking at the other end of the square.

A thick black smoke is seen in the sky.

"It can’t be ...!"

The worst thought emerges in Ash mind.

The location where the black smoke emerges is St Valeria’s clock tower.

At the same time the explosion occurred, the public gathered in the square screamed, the site is in a mess.

After all, a few days ago there were subjected to the Necromancia’s attack, and now the reaction of many people is particularly extreme.

“-Princess Highness please return to the Silvanus.”

At this time, Glenn’s voice is heard.

"You’re right."

Veronica without blinking an eye, just calmly nodded.

Ash could not help but angrily interrupted:

"Didn’t you see that church? Her Royal Highness Princess may be right inside there -"

However, Veronica coldly interrupts Ash:

"Don’t worry. From now on, I declare from this moment that Silvanus will become the strategic headquarters of this Operation. You all please return together."

Even when her biological sister may be caught up in the bombings, Veronica’s calm attitude really pissed people off.

Part 4

Silvia arrived at the St Valeria’s Church.

Under Veronica’s order, she did not even bring her maid Cosette with her.

St Valeria’s statue is placed on the altar.

Valeria’s one of the Twelve Apostles who served St Rosa Maria.

In the Rosa Maria sect’s bible, Valeria is not only portrayed as a woman full of compassion, but she is also the protector of law.

In addition to Silvia, there are also many people who come to church. But most of them look like tourists, those who are like Silvia who has their own trouble is only the minority.

“St Valeria’s please forgive my imprudent actions."

Silvia knelt in front of the altar and began to pray.

"St Valeria’s….."

At this time, someone else right beside Silvia's is non-stop praying.

That voice feels very familiar.

"Please bless me so that I will get pregnant with 'Silver Knight'-sama’s child......"

"What are you praying for?!!!!"

"Kyaa!"

THUND. That person is so shocked by the other roaring voice until she screamed and fell backwards.

Silvia carefully looked at her face.

"... I know that it was you, Jessica Valentine!"

Jessica stood up straight and stares back at Silvia.

"Oops. Look at you, aren’t you not the Princess? I thought you were to accompany Princess Veronica for her condolences trip today."

"Err......Sorry to tell you that I did not accompany her!"

"Y-You, what are you getting angry about?"

"Give me a break! That is not the point, how come you are here?"

Jessica obviously does not understand the reason Silvia is so angry.

"Well, I just wanted to beg St Valeria to bless me for an easy childbirth..."

St Valeria is a protector of law! You had looked for the wrong person! "

"Hmm, I’m not like the rest, I won’t even bother this small detail."

"What type of small detail is this?”

"Hm... if you kept on clinging to petty things like this, you will never be on equal footing with Princess!"

Silvia whose weakness is found out suddenly became furious.

“What did you say? Outsiders like you will never understand! "

“Obvious at a glance- there is too much difference in both of your open-mindedness."

"Ugh! How shameless are you...... to talk about someone else pain!"

"Oops, it is your pain? Oh, as a royal you are far behind Veronica-sama in your open mindedness and as a Dragner, your strength is far less than <Silver knight>-sama; I advise you to learn how to be a woman, you can take this noble’s daughter as an example."

"What……do you say......?"

Silvia couldn’t bear with it any longer, her rational thinking had snapped. She feels that what Jessica implies is as if trying to persuade her to hurriedly marry Glenn. Although logically, it is impossible for Jessica to know her marriage with Glenn, but Silvia can’t care about the detail so much.

"Ha! A mere Randall family’s servant even has the nerve to ask me to take her as an example? Even my toes are laughing!"

Jessica's face turns from red to white and back to red.

"Can it be Rebecca had told you ...?"

"Don’t worry, under the president’s order, I will not spread this to the public. But, I would like to advise you to restraint a little, stop falsifying your status."

Jessica lips tremble, she fiercely glared at Silvia.

"Then I’ll ask you...... can you can guarantee that your actions are never related to falsehood?"

"I-I……"

Silvia is also afraid than someone will see through her timid side, that is why she is always pretending to be strong. As a Lautreamont Knight Country’s Princess, she is trying her hardest to play the ideal image of ‘This is what a princess should do’.

Ain’t such behaviour is also taken as falsehood?

"Oops, Could it be that I hit the bull’s eye?"

"N-No, it is not it……”

Just while Silvia intends to rebuttal-

- Boom!

The place above emits an explosion sound.

The floor is shacking because of the impact, dust, sands and stones fall from the ceilings.

Judged from this case, there seems to be an explosion upstairs.

"Kyaa!"

Silvia is so frighten until she inadvertently clinging to Jessica.

Maybe Jessica is equally caught up in the panic and she moves her hand around Silvia and hugs her hard.

Silvia’s and Jessica’s screams are like a trigger which make other visitors moan.

It is just only an explosion, but from the original sacred atmosphere of Church instant turned into a living hell.

At this time, a condescending shadow appeared.

"Who’s that person?"

Silvia eyes widened.

Black hair and the eyes which are full of evil are glimmering.

Under the high degree of exposure folk costume, a nearly tanned coloured skin can be seen.

The woman like in a drama began to speak:

"‘Blame the sin, rather than the sinner!’ What a joke, the fragile mind of a human is the root of all evil and all are sinners will never escape death!"

WHACK! The woman with a toss the whip in her hand-

"I shall be 'Avdocha the Convicted’!"

Silvia cannot help but become dumbstruck.

She remembers that name.

"How come...... This person is 'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Silvia knew the existence of this anti-establishment activist. Long ago, she had also seen her wanted order for several times.

Her reward amount is up to one million Eccles.

However, the woman in front of her not only has faces of child, a petite body and a childlike appearance which cause others to not believe that she is a battle-hardened terrorists, it is totally different from the picture in the wanted poster.

But the woman with a calm expression looks at the visitor.

Even when her body is petite, but she is still able to look downwards from up high.

That is because she was standing on the back of a basilisk.

Under the sight of the big rolling eyes that only a basilisk has-

"Yikes ......!"

Silvia and Jessica could not help but tremble.

The extreme fear causes them to not release each other’s hand.

--- Basilisk

Even though they bear a striking resemblance to lizards, but the size is nowhere near a lizard. Although there are well known as a close relatives of an Asia, but from their body, there is not even a slightest hint that they have the Dragon intellectual.

To tame such monster after captured, and ride it like a horse, no matter what it will never be done by some ordinary person.

So the only explanation is, the woman in front is non-other than 'Avdocha the Convicted’-

"From now on, you are all hostages! Just don’t act rashly, than I will not take your life! On the other hand...... if someone dares to fight back, don’t blame me if we use you to feed him!"

Followed by Avdocha’s ordered, that basilisk made an earth-shattering roar.

Part 5

The atmosphere of the airship Silvanus’s navigation room is very tense.

The crew, led by the helmsman are ready at their post; they are ready to take off any time.

"Huhu…...It is hard even for me to tolerate with this, Glenn"

Veronica who is smiling while sitting on the captain seat said.

"Yes, Veronica-sama."

Glenn serious nodded in agreement.

Apart from the escort’s captain Glenn who is by Veronica’s side, the other six escort are on their dragons responsible for the protection of Silvanus.

Under Veronica’s order, Rebecca, Max, Ash, Eco - the members of the student’s council also gathered in the navigation room.

"Hey...... Why can you be so calm? The church that Her Royal Highness is in is attacked!"

Ash unable to restrain his emotions, questioned.

Veronica on the captain’s seat comfortably cross her legs and teased:

"You're too inexperience, Ash. During the Necromancia’s attack, are your emotions this unstable? If it is so, then you are just lucky the last time- you'd better have some deep thought about it, or else you could not guaranty your own life."

"What did you say?"

"Veronica-sama!"

At this moment, the communication sergeant interrupted Ash while looking back at Veronica.

"There is a signal from St Valeria’s Church!"

Beside the communication sergeant’s hand, the bright dragon crystal beside the magic communicator is shining.

"Connect to it."

"Understood!"

The magic communicator continues to flash for a while then a projection screen is shown in mid-air.

"-!"

Ash gasped. Even when he knew that is a type of oracle, but he had never seen such method, which the technology should have been imported from the Empire.

Although there is a lot of static noise, but the scene shown on the screen looks like the interior of the St Valeria’s church – Valeria’s statue set on the altar statue prove this fact.

The only thing is, the screen didn’t show the hostages. Of course, that does not rule out that Silvia could have been abducted...... which mad Ash anxiously clenches his fists.

At this moment, the projection screen suddenly shows a woman's face.

'I shall be 'Avdocha the Convicted’. Wait, since we are already familiar with each other, I don’t need to announce my name right, Veronica? '

"You're right. So could you quickly tell me what is your demand."

Veronica shows the calm demeanour of a royal family.

"She is ... 'Avdocha the Convicted’?"

Ash eyes widen and turn speechless.

Seeing her childlike face, Rebecca, Max and Viagra seems to feel the same as Ash, all their face looked stunned and skeptical.

Because her looks and the arrest warrant they receive earlier are apparently two completely different characters.

The portrait in the arrest warrant looks like a 24-year-old with a sharp look like a she-leopard. Which gave the feeling of a veteran guerrilla soldier......

'I’ll let you have a look at this first! '

The screen suddenly focuses at another person’s body.

The altar of the Rosa Maria’s religion is magnificently decorated with its symbolic totem wing like crucifix, however, there is a personal tied to the winged cross.

Ash and the others turn speechless, not just because of Avdocha’s fetishes.

"Jessica ...?"

Rebecca who knew her since childhood muttered blankly.

She is not wrong, the one tied on the winged cross is the president of SKFC-Jessica Valentine, of people. Evidently, she seems unfortunately to become her hostage.

"That’s t-too much!"

Ash's lips are trembling.

Jessica is actually only wearing her underwear.

Apart from her underwear and knee socks, the rest of her clothing is mercilessly stripped away.

The humiliated Jessica is desperately fighting back to hold back her tears.

Not only that, there are also squiggles on top her bare belly that reads:

- The Head of Valkyrie!

"That is that blood text ......?"

"No, that does not look like blood. It should be something like lipsticks.”

Rebecca swept away Ash’s worry.

"Hmm ...... to even use hostages as meat shield to make me offer my head. She is really an insatiable woman."

Even after witnessing Jessica’s inhumane treatment, Veronica is still easy going.

At this time, the screen slowly moves downwards, and the altar is shown.

"...... What is that?"

Ash frowns.

Around the altar, there are black objects that give the impression of a "machine". Although it is an extremely strange and rare seen thing, but it does filled with a dangerous atmosphere and can never be found as an equipment of the church.

From the screen Avdocha’s voice is heard again:

'As you can see, we have set a bomb set up in the church. This is the Empire made mechanical bomb. Once detonated, the church will immediately be blown to pieces. Also, I am a person who has no patience. Every time the bell rings, I’ll kill a hostage. '

"What did you say ...!"

Ash excitedly clenches his fists.

She is threatening that every hour there will be someone who will lose their life.

From the next time the bell rings, there is only around fifty minutes time.

'Hehe ... I can’t wait to see you whose head is off your neck, Veronica.'

Once finish with these words, the communication is stopped

It seems that Avdocha stop it herself.

"Your Highness, what should we to do now?"

Rebecca asked, but a sneer is shown on Veronica’s mouth.

The coldness of her sneer, caused Ash’s hair stood up straight.

"I’ll never compromise with terrorists. If we face an emergency situation, we’ll use the main canon of Silvanus to blow up the whole church."

"What ..."

After hearing this emotionless declaration, Ash felt as if he is punched at the back of his head.

Even when she knew that Silvia may also be inside the church, but...

"You are really ...!"

Ash finally understands the reason Veronica is given the title 'Ironblood Valkyrie'.

Part 6

The time is moved slightly backwards---

Nearly a hundred worshipers were taken hostage along with Silvia. Of course, due to unexpected events they are trembling endlessly, while still trying to grasp the situation that they are in.

The terrorist’s mastermind is 'Avdocha the Convicted’.

There are nine soldiers surrounding them.

The nine soldiers gave the feeling that they are from the mountains and are large, muscular man. They dressed in their folk costumes; with are eagle looking mask on their face; equipped with weapon that the mountains’ people usual whip and shamshir, dagger and others. The nine men seem to be loyal to Avdocha. On the contrary of their savage like looks, their accept order just like any regular army.

Avdocha’s objective is to defeat Veronica. She probably wants to take advantage of the 100 hostages to achieve this goal.

"……is there nothing that we can do?"

As the Knight’s Royal Princess, what can I do? Just when Silvia thought so, in her mind first emerged is the intention to expose her identity as princess.

"As long as I identify myself, we could ask them to release the hostages......"

It is not exaggerated to have this idea, because she should have her own value as princess.

If she can use a person's freedom in exchange for the safety of the public, ain’t this a very good bargain?

"I will never allow you to do this!"

Surprisingly, Jessica actually tries stopping Silvia. When she heard Silvia talking to herself, she with a low voice advised her to give up on the idea.

"Once they know that you are Princess Veronica’s sister, there’s no one can guarantee your safety."

"The problem is ... if I am the only person who sacrifice and these people can be saved -"

"Do not look down on others! I never had the intention to sell you out for my freedom! For I'm Jessica Valentine!"

At this time, Avdocha who is originally busy giving orders to the men, suddenly turned around and look back at Silvia and Jessica.

"Well well well...... there is someone who has the leisure to whisper around even when they are in danger; you really have guts to do that."

She took the reins of the basilisk and move closer to the two. The basilisk with its heavy steps gives a pressuring feeling; Silvia is almost scared out of her wits.

However, Jessica is the opposite.

She stood up from the spot.

"I am Jessica Valentine!"

"So?"

"Don’t look at me like that, I'm well-known noble! Out of respect for me, can you promise that you would never harm the other hostages?"

The heroic act gave Silvia a hard hit.

Under such situation, she actually have the courage to claim herself as a noble ...!

Avdocha sitting on the basilisk’s back, her eyes narrowed into a crack.

“Noble? I've never heard of the Valentine’s house…... Anyway, I we appreciate your foolhardiness; I’ll now give you an important task! Arrest her! "

Two of Avdocha’s men came forward without a word, held Jessica from both sides. Without any explanation they dragged her to Avdocha.

Like a comforting Silvia that there is nothing that needs to be worry about.

However what is unfolded in front of all hostages is a tragic scene.

Jessica clothed is tear and stripped off. Then, Avdocha personally take a lipstick and wrote on her belly 'The Head of Valkyrie!’

Jessica from the start to the finish didn't moan, even a drop of tears didn't flow out from her eyes. She just grits her teeth and bears all this, but it is not difficult to feel what she is experiencing.

Finally, Jessica was taken to the altar and tied to the cross.

"Jessica ... I've misunderstood you. In fact, you are a lot nobler than a true noble."

- Compare to me, I-I’m ...... actually weak and incompetent.

She could use her identity as a Dragner and fight back...... It is not that Silvia doesn't have this idea; the problem is, as long there are hostages, there is no way to summon Lancelot in the church.

This space in the church is too small for Lancelot to use its skills.

"Damn ... Why am I ... this useless!"

Apart from sitting down together timidly with the other hostages in addition to unable to do anything, Silvia deeply hate herself.

Part 7

"'Avdocha the Convict'? How can this be possible ...!"

Disguising as a flower girl, Anya who is with about a hundred hostages inside the church murmured.

In order to prevent her men who deeply hated Veronica from taking any actions, Anya also infiltrated Ansrivan. She only went to the St Valeria’s Church to gather information but unfortunately is was drawn into Avdocha’s terrorist act.

'Avdocha the Convict' is a legend in the mountains. Since her lost in a military operations there is no more rumours about her anymore, so many thought that she had died......

Anya since her childhood had already heard her name and look up to her. Avdocha have leaved her village with numerous heroic legends.

Of course, this is the first time Anya saw her.

She had only seen her portrait in the wanted poster in the past at best.

The beauty on the wanted poster is a perfect match with the title 'Avdocha the Convict'.

A reward amount that can break a record- one million Eccles is also a stunner.

But the person herself is not the case.

-I actually didn’t expect that she has a petite body...... Logically speaking, her actual age should be around the twenties.

That aggressive basilisk who is tamed and obeyed her, that is the best evidence that she is likely Avdocha. Because in Avdocha’s heroic legend, the basilisk didn’t just play a small role.

However, from Anya’s point of view, there are too many things that don’t fit.

- Such terrorist act... is nothing but foolhardy.

In this world, there are plenty of rebels who reckless sacrifice his own life. The Tantalos tribe a long time ago seems to be popular with suicide attacks.

However, judging from the rumours spread of many parts of the mountains, at the least Avdocha is not the kind of reckless person.

She not only led a successful fight one after another, but in the end she always survived - because of this, Avdocha had become a legend.

Even the ‘killed in action’ message is well known, people still think that "maybe she is still alive somewhere in the world", that is the part that makes Avdocha scary and also add some style in her legend.

Such legendary figures, it is impossible for her to draw such a foolhardy act......

Anya fells that instead of thinking about this problem, she should worry about her own safety.

- Yes...in fact, what is she going to do next?

Since Avdocha had already set the time limit, they will die if they just sit still.

Don’t forget each time the bell rings, one of the hostages will be killed...

How about if she revealed that she is from the Tantalos tribe- even she did think so, but Anya soon wave off this idea.

She is a veteran.

Such people will not take Anya as her companion with just the same skin colour. To act rashly will probably end up with a harsh lesson like that Jessica Valentine.

Although under Milgauss help, the mountainous people's dispute is finally able to calm down, but there are a lot of Tantalos family who gave up their home and choose to come out from the mountains. Which results in many people who are not from the mountains with the same skin colour as Anya is increasing.

Moreover, there are rumours:

Princess Veronica establishes a force consists of foreigner, she intends use a different army system for them from the Knights army, and they are also for other use.

Also there seems to be many mountain people who are include in the group.

- Shouldn’t act rashly, or else I’ll be suspected as a soldier from the foreign force......

Even though she disguises as a flower girl, but she is still Avdocha. Perhaps may recognize Anya had once undertaken military training at a glance.

- If it is so, then the smart move is to temporarily blend with the hostages and see what’s going to happen next.

After concluding everything, Anya, her hands hugging her knees and buried her head in between. This way, she will not need to face Avdocha directly.

If she can just avoid doing any unsightly behaviour, no matter how many times the bell sounded, Anya will never be so unlucky and be killed? After all, the number of hostages are as many as 100 people......

But god is never gonna let her get off easily beside Anya, there is a mother holding her baby while shaking. Maybe the baby sense her mother’s anxiety, the looks on its face is as if it is going to burst into tears anytime.

- Please be good......!

Anya immediately pulls her cheeks and began to coax the baby.

"Chaa... ♪"

It is probably that her act is funny, but fortunately the baby gave a happy grin.

Even when in her heart she silently felt relieved, but at the same time she started to hate herself.

- What am I actually doing...?

Part 8

Rebecca suddenly speaks to Veronica.

"Going to send someone negotiate?"

Veronica seems like she is interested in this proposal, look at Rebecca.

Even when the person she is speaking to is Veronica, Rebecca is still without fear, gracefully stated her views:

"We must not use the main cannon of the Silvanus until the very end. I think we should make this as our triumph card and only use it when we are left with no more choices."

"Alright, we’ll follow to according what you had said."

"Thank you, Your Highness."

"The question is who will become the negotiator?"

Rebecca with a confident smile responded to Veronica.

"Public order of Ansarivan, since ancient times is maintained by the Student’s Council. I think we should send someone from the student’s council. If it is a student, I think they will put their guard down."

Hearing Rebecca's rhetoric, Ash feels anxious.

Since, Silvia was taken as hostage and the vice president and secretary as usual is nowhere in sight, so the candidates left behind are Rebecca, Max, and Ash the trio.

Of course, everyone knows that Rebecca the most suitable person for this task, but -

"I recommend Ash Blake as negotiator."

Rebecca has made a very surprising recommendation.

"Huh?"

Ash suspects he had heard it wrongly.

"That...... Rebecca-san, you are serious about it?"

Just when Ash is at loss, Eco interrupted Rebecca.

"Are you kidding? Do you want to let this guy go alone in such dangerous place?"

Facing Eco who is in fury, Rebecca replies her with a playful smile.

"Could it be that you are worried about Ash?"

Eco suddenly blush.

"T-T-That, how is that possible? What I’m protesting about is that you don’t have the rights to order my meat slave!"

Once the words blurted out, the atmosphere in the navigation room immediately froze.

Even those officers who are in charge of the steering and the communication secretly peeped at Ash as if he is a suspicious person.

"Wait! Don’t talk any nonsense that’ll make people misunderstand!"

The ‘meat slave’ that Eco mean is someone who will present their own flesh to their owners when they are hungry. But, by no means, those officers were imagining those kinds of meaning.

But the situation right now did not allowed Ash to explain himself, because everyone threw him with a suspicious glance.

Finally, Veronica broke the silence.

"Well ...... I didn’t think that you are actually Eco’s meat slave. I admire you have some backbones."

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding!"

Veronica looked at Ash who is desperately denying.

"There is nothing to be shy about? Ain’t that meat slaves are those who gave their own flesh for the lord when they are aware that their lord is at the risk of starvation?"

"That’s why I say it is a misunderstanding…Huh?!"

Ash is stunned.

"You are really strange. If there are any other meanings, why don’t you speak it out loud?"

Veronica is with a serious expression. As if she only knew this meaning.

Eco and Veronica thinking seems to have something in common.

"Yes, you're right! That’s what Eco’s meat slave mean!"

After Ash grasp the opportunity to explain, the atmosphere of the navigation room finally calm down. Finally, Ash is away from those sharp- sights, he let out a sigh of relief, but the most fundamental problem is not yet solved.

"In short, without my permission, you'll never be going to send him there!"

Eco who is stubborn, refused to back down.

Like her, Rebecca looks like she is never in a hurry.

"Logically speaking, it was supposed to be my duty as president to go there –“

"Then you just only need to go to solve this problem!"

"The problem is that I cannot go, because the terrorists who should have known that Rebecca Randall is an Ark-Dragner., I was chosen as a negotiator, is likely that I’ll be ignored."

What Rebecca said is not unreasonable. If it is Ash who is the terrorists, he’ll also not greet Rebecca with open arms.

"But, Ash do you think that you can do it? Although there is a time limit, but you still have an equal strength as an Ark-Dragner. Nevertheless, you are also the ‘Silver knight’."

"Don’t joke around, this burden is really too heavy for me!! No matter what, I’m just an ordinary student!"

"That’s right. It can be presume that the other party also see you as an ordinary student. So this is the advantage."

"The problem is ..."

"Don’t be afraid. Even if it is dangerous, Eco will defend you. Am I right, Eco?"

"Don’t you just simply speak in place of others!"

"Oh! So you mean to say that you cannot protect Ash? Is the Ark you made is so fragile?"

"I, I didn’t say that! Don’t you dare look down on my Ark!"

"Then, can you can protect Ash?"

"Of course!"

Eco confidently lifted her chest.

Ash can only smile.

Rebecca’s technique is really amazing. Don’t know whether it is fortunately or unfortunately, Eco did not even notice that she had fallen into Rebecca’s trap.

“Don’t worry, Ash. Even when there is Eco protecting you, I will not be bold enough to send you to the enemies’ den."

Rebecca suddenly with a gentle smile, stretched out her hands and gently rests them on Ash’s shoulders.

"Huh?"

The distance between the two is so near that they can sense each other breath. Even when it is a emergency situation, Ash still could not help but blush. A fragrant smell can be smelled.

"I will wait for an opportunity to attack the church. It is just that I’ll not be doing the same thing as you. With the Ark, it is child’s play to break into the church through the foundation."

"Foundation?"

Ash at that time doesn’t understand what she means.

"So, this is it!"

However, he then realized Rebecca's intentions.

First, Ash is send into the church to act as a negotiator to stall time.

Rebecca on the other hand is using the tunnels below to gain access to the church.

Next, they’ll use the oracle the blast through the foundation and surprise Avdocha.

"President! Please let me participate in your plan!"

Max shouted.

When the Necromancia attack the city, Max was good for nothing becoming a burden. He probably would like to take this opportunity to clear his name.

Rebecca immediately rejected.

"Sorry Max, this time you won’t come in handy."

"... What!"

Max, burn out like, stood motionless.

Ash understands Rebecca’s intentions; he knew she did not mean to ill treat him.

Max who still remains in the stage of A dragner, only when he is riding his dragon he can show his true colours, but this battle must be done in small scale, the large body of the dragon will only be in the way.

The Ark-Dragner who can use the oracle special only for the ark, is very suitable for this kind of combat.

Rebecca was right, despite the time constraints, Ash has that ability.

Thanks to Eco’s power, Ash can give it a try.

Since he has this ability, what should he do to fulfil his responsibility -

Ash made up his mind.

"I’ll go. After all, Her Royal Highness Princess is waiting for us to save her."

"Well that it is more like it."

Rebecca with a smile of appreciation, turning back to face Veronica.

"You think this strategy is practical, Your Highness?"

Veronica on the captain’s seat shaking her other leg, exposing a satisfied smile.

"Very well, Rebecca we will use of your combat strategy, but, I do not want to let talented people like you to go on an adventure alone, I’ll let Glenn go with you."

Captain Glenn’s combat power is what I sought for."

Rebecca agreed immediately, but Glenn oppose.

"Veronica-sama, I’m the escort’s captain, is it really appropriate for me not to be beside you -"

"What are you talking about, Glenn?"

Veronica whispers in Glenn’s ear.

She is most probably asking him to personally rescued Silvia who is bound to be married to him-

Like a confirmation to Ash’s prediction, Glen for a moment exposed an unpleasant expression.

Glenn, since he came to Ansrivan always remain with expression No 1, such changes are really rare.

Anyway, Glenn after all is a loyal servant to the king.

"... Yes, Princess."

After he respectfully bowed, he is back to is normal poker face.

Ash of course does not agree with that absurd marriage, but now is not the time to protest.

"Hey, Eco, can we make a deal?"

"Why?"

Ash stood next to Eco and quietly whisper.

Since the other party possessed the Empire made bombs, countermeasures must be prepared in advance.

"... Can you do it, Eco?"

Just as Ash expected, after listening to his combat strategy, Eco is puzzled.

"Huh? How do I know whether I can do it or not?"

"No, you can do it."

Ash with confidence smile at Eco.

"...?"

Eco simply did not expect that Ash will smile at this time, she confusedly fell into silent.

"Remember the last time we fought the Necromancia, at least this opponent is a human, no matter what, it won’t be as difficult it as last time?"

"Well ... perhaps it is like time."

"I’ll be looking forward to your performance, Eco."

Then, Ash place hand lightly on Eco’s shoulder.

"I-I know, but I’ve a condition-

“Crepe is it not? After everything is deal with, I’ll bring you to look for the stall."

Eco slightly lift her neck and looked up at Ash.

"... You still remember?"

"Of course I remember, because you are my Pal."

"W-What, does Ash even had this type of aura around him...!"

Even when Eco angrily turned her face to a side, but her ears are all red.

Part 9

After alighting from Silvanus, Ash pass through the evacuated At Durham Square, moving towards the St Valeria’s Church.

On the way there, Ash suddenly remembers the tie clip.

That is given by the communication officer before he departs.

The tie clip even when it looks ordinary, its inside has small pieces of Bright Dragon Crystal, and it will send the sound it received back to the Silvanus navigation room.

To put it bluntly, it is an ultra-micro magic communication tool.

Only Ash realized that this type of machinery exist in this world.

Who would think that he would actually take on such chore, Ash cannot help but secretly crying.

But Rebecca’s analysis is very reasonable; he cannot deny that he is most suitable to play this role. After all, Ash as a student is unknown to the public, but at the same time, he has the same combat ability as an Ark-dragner.

"Forget it, anyway, boats will eventually straightens when the reaches the docks."

After the finish thinking, he thrust his hands into the pockets of his pants.

He then maintain his speed and continue to walked forward.

Rebecca and Glenn should now have departed towards the church through the underground tunnels.

Just when Ash is 20 meters from the main entrance of the church -

- Shoo!

Beside his ears, a whizzing sharp sound is heard and the stone on the ground is followed by a "pop!" strange sound.

"...?"

Only after a full few seconds, Ash realised that someone is shooting at himself.

"Are they the ones who fired the shot ...!"

At the church’s window on the second floor are two snipers. They were armed with weapons that is suspected to be the Empire’s made sniper rifle.

Is Avdocha working with the Empire’s army? Or, they are using what they recovered from the fight with the Empire......?

Let's put the origin of the weapons aside; the shooting just now is clearly a warning. If the sniper has the intention to kill, probably that shot is going to kill Ash.

After realised he is one step away from death, Ash gave a cold sweat, but at this time, he cannot retreat.

Because Silvia is a hostage being held inside the church-

"Do not be afraid... Eco is protecting me."

After Ash pumped himself up, he shouted toward the sniper:

"I’m Ash Blake and I’m here on behalf of the student’s council! Please let me in to negotiations with you!"

Even Ash as himself does not sound convincing, but the ‘student’s council’ in this academy town hold a great position.

Since Avdocha is one of the leading activists, she should know about this background knowledge.

"......"

They didn’t respond. However, one of the snipers disappeared from the window. From a positive perspective, Ash hopes that they are afraid of the student’s council.

"Well ... how are they going to make their moves?"

Ash, hands in his pocket, patiently waiting for the results.

After a few minutes - "Crack ...", is slowly opened with a heavy sound.

Part 10

Once passed through the door, Ash is soon surrounded by three masked soldiers.

After checking his items, he is led to the altar.

Fortunately, the soldiers did not notice the tie clip, Ash secretly relieved.

"Oh... so kid, you are the negotiator?"

In front of the altar, Avdocha riding in the back of the basilisk looked down on Ash.

Although Avdocha called him a kid, doesn’t she think that her appearance looks a lot more childish, but at this time, Ash shouldn’t correct her!

"I am a student’s council General Affairs Ash Blake."

While declaring his name and at the same time, Ash quietly observe the whole place.

Half-naked Jessica is still tied to the altar’s wing cross.

Because she is not moving, Ash thought that she was dead, but with a closer look, there is a breathing sign on her chest.

It seems that she just lost consciousness. The red text written on her belly is more shocking than what is seen through the screen.

On the other hand, the hostages on the side of the walls are quiet.

Ash found Silvia in a corner. Thanks to the eye-catching academy uniform, Ash is able to find her.

"...!"

Silvia with a stunned look stares at the Ash.

Ash nodded slightly, for Silvia to be at ease, and his sight moved back to Avdocha.

"General affairs? It seems that I’m looked down upon."

"Even it is our president who personally come to negotiate, will you even let her in? You should also know that our president is an Ark- Dragner?"

Avdocha laughed.

“Hehe...... you talk too much. Say, what you want to negotiate about? Our request is only one, which is Veronica’s head. As long as you obediently handed over her head, I’ll immediate release all the hostages. If not we will blow up the church. Things are just this simple, or are they not?"

"You really think we will accept such request? She is the 'Ironblood Valkyrie' If desperate, that person would not hesitate to use the main cannon of Silvanus, blow up this church together with the hostages into ashes. "

Once Ash blurted, the hostages immediately began to become restless.

"What did you say?"

"Is Veronica-sama intends to do nothing about us...!"

"Disregard for human life!"

Avdocha cold sight shot through the panicked hostages.

"Silence!"

With a loud sound enough to shake the earth, everyone kept quiet instantly.

"Is the purpose of this trip is to make the hostages panic? I’ve never seen such a foolish negotiator."

"I was just declaring the truth. If you continue to delay, you will all lose your lives in vain!"

"Do you think this threat will be effective?"

"I do not think so, I've heard a lot about what you have done...that’s why I do not understand why would you do such things?"

Avdocha did not directly answer the questions, she just change the subject.

"So be it ...... I’ll tell you about my past."

"What did you say?"

The unexpectedly development cause Ash to be caught unprepared.

"In fact, we have been looking for a sister that has discrete for a long time."

Sister? "

"Ya, but I still do not know whether she is alive or not. It is because of the mountains disputes that cause our separation."

Is she trying to arouse the sympathy of the people? Or that she has other purposes?

"...... What happened after that?"

Usher tried to sound calm look, while continue urging.

"What I want to say is this. Talking about this... I heard that Veronica has three sisters. I would like to let her feel the pain to be separated with her sisters."

Ash feels that he has goosebumps.

Damn .This situation is very bad.

Ash finally understands why Avdocha deliberately bring up the sister topic.

Because she wanted Veronica also tasted the bitter feeling.

Silvia once she is exposed, Avdocha is likely to not let her off.

Unfortunately, there are no signs about Rebecca and Glenn break into the church.

- Are you alright Eco...?

Ash with a desperate feeling focus his attention on his left arm’s ‘seikoku’.

With this 'Seikoku' Ash and Eco is able to communicate.

- Eco... can you hear me?

Eco does not respond.

Part 11

- Dragon Workshop

This is but a space use by dragons to create created their works. Even though Eco only knew some knowledge about this apace aware of this space, but there is no doubt that this place is different from the real world.

If the real world is defined as the physical world, then this can be compared to the spiritual world. Since they are not bound to the body anymore, they can imagine freely. With some effort, flying to the sky is not a problem-

Once Ash entered the church, Eco then send her spirit to the Dragon Workshop. Her true body is protected in Silvanus navigation room, and so she does not need to worry about the safety of her body.

The floor is paved with white and black square tiles.

On the wall, there are many works left beside by her ancestors hanging there without any order. Just like a museum of black and white.

"Welcome to the Dragon Workshop."

As usual, the woman called Navi comes forward to meet Eco.

"You again......"

Eco with a bored look stare at Navi.

Frankly, eco is not good at dealing with her.

Today, Navi is wearing a dark red dress, sitting on an antique chair.

When I grew up, will I become like her- Eco hate to look at her. Even her horns are different from Eco, both of them are sharp and pointed.

"How could the rate of both of us meeting make you feel tired? Ain’t this the second time we met."

"Hmph! I don't even want to come to this place!"

Eco impatiently talk back to Navi’s tease.

Sure enough, I’ll have this headache whenever I met this woman.

"Do you not have even a little desire to create? As I had told you, dragons are born craftsman, do you totally do not want to help him- Ash Blake to create and original set of Ark.? "

Eco’s cheeks suddenly feel hot.

"D-Don’t joke around, why would I want to help that guy...!"

"Well, I think he is a very great guy? Since 'every dragon would surrender under him' is also very mysterious. You to quickly grow into your 'true from' and let him ride on you...... Then you may be addicted to that feeling."

“'True From'?”

Eco suddenly feel uneasy.

"What do you mean? In other words, my current form......is just a deception? In the end, why I was born in the human form?"

An flirtatious smile emerge on Navi’s face.

"Because the human form is also the real you."

"...?"

"But you are eventually a dragon, and also Ash Blake’s Pal. I hope that you can soon be 'awaken' ."

"Weird. Somehow every time you talk, I feel that there was a fire emerges from my belly!"

"Hehe ... sorry, I seem to like to tease you. Back to the topic, you are here in order to complete your mission, are you not?"

"Hmm ... Yeah, that guy asking me to prepare a suitable Ark against the Empire’s made bomb."

"He intends to use the power of magic against machinery? Well, here we go."

Although she is very unhappy with Navi’s long-winded behaviours, but the conditions do not allow her to continue to waste her time in useless dialogue. So Eco closed her eyes and summon the large number of design left behind by her ancestors.

The total number of these designs is over a thousand.

What Eco can do now, is extract the parts which are suitable for Ash and re-build it into the new Ark suitable to go against the Empire’s made bomb.

Although it is only 'extract and re-build', it still consumes a huge amount of magic.

It will cause a huge burden to the young dragon Eco.

Even so, for Ash who is in the enemy’s den and also for her favourite crepes, Eco can only try -

Part 12

Anya who mixed in the crowd, her eyes widened.

- That guy-!

The ‘Silver Knight’ who successfully control the Necromancia-

The one who has potential to become Milgauss enemy in the future-

This guy not only he come into the church as a negotiator, but he also reveal his own name.

The student’s Council’s General Affairs-Ash Blake is it...? I’ll remember your name. "

Even when out of nowhere she was caught in Avdocha’s terrorist act which cause her to fall into despair, but it is also a blessing in disguise, because she now knew Ash’s name without putting any effort.

The only thing is, she has to leave alive this church alive, otherwise there is no meaning behind this. Not only each time the bell rings, they will kill a hostage, Veronica is also outside aiming the Silvanus main cannon here.

So the first task is to get out of this dangerous place alive.

Once any event that is not expected by Avdocha happens, it is simple for her to escape.

In order to grasp this opportunity, she must make herself ready......

"Chaa... ♪"

The thing is, Anya is now carrying a baby.

- She's the ‘Ironblood Valkyrie’. If her desperate, that person would not hesitate to use the Silvanus main cannon and turn this whole church together with the hostages into ashes.

After hearing Ash’s announcement, the mother beside her cannot was scared until she lose consciousness.

Fortunately, Anya has good reflexes and she manage to grab the baby, and finally narrowly avoided the disaster of the baby burst into tears, the problem is that now the situation is still in a critical point.

"What can I do......"

After Anya muttered with a sigh, her chest suddenly felt numb, almost straighten her body.

It turned out that the baby stretches its arms to reach out and touch Anya breast.

- M-My breast. Even Milgauss-sama had never touched them before!

The baby is probably hungry and wants to drink milk. Anya naturally cannot produce any milk. The baby's mother is still unconscious.

- What is your mom doing! How could this be possible just because she live in the peaceful days for too long!

At the same time Anya is cursing in the bottom of her heart, baby starts to fondle her breast.

All of a sudden it squeezes it with its hands, the next moment it rubes them with its face.

Compare to its mother’s breasts, Anya’s is a lot smaller, maybe baby maybe troubled with the difference between the two.

Finally, the baby actually bites Anya’s nipples through the clothing.

"...... Ah!"

Under the strange sensation, Anya came out with a weird noise.

This voice causes her to blush with shame.

"Don’t you dare ask for too much!"

Anya quietly scolded it and forces the baby away from her chest.

Unexpectedly, the baby’s turns sour...

"Woo Woo ... hick… ... Waaaaaa!"

It suddenly burst into tears.

Anya looking ashen, even when she tries to want to please the baby, but is complete failure. She can’t be blame for this, because she has never taken care of a child

- Damn ...... if Avdocha......

However, in only five seconds, Anya’s worry has become reality.

"So noisy...... Can’t a mother of the Knight country discipline her child properly?"

Anya hidden in the crowd, her whole body stiffen.

"Since it's too noisy, why don’t you release the women and children?"

The boy named Ash step forward to help, but Avdocha just laugh him off.

"How can I? Moreover, the first bell is going to ring soon, I have been always punctual; let’s just choose the baby as a sacrifice."

"Are you kidding? Are you even human? It was just an innocent baby!"

"Do you think there is time to care about the age of every opponent on the battlefield? If you are careless, it is not surprising that there will be a day that you will be killed by a five years old kid!"

"Even if it is like this-”

As if to prevent Ash from saying anything, the basilisk gave a ferocious growl.

"Grrrr......"

Once heard, Avdocha laugh.

"Hmm, is it so…."

"What's so funny?"

"Hehe... it says that baby is just enough to fill teeth. Well, bring me the mother and her child!"

After Avdocha gave the order, two masks soldiers immediately take action.

- I-It can’t be!

Anya is horrified. Avdocha actually want to feed the wing lizard with her and the baby......

One step, two steps. The soldiers move through the crowd and are coming nearer.

Since their expressions cannot be seen under the mask, many people shudder.

“Uuu..."

Anya is scared and shed tears.

Even when Anya had cheated death for a few times, but she still could not withstand Avdocha’s heavy pressure. Her mind instantly turns blank.

The soldiers are closer now.

"I can’t be saved anymore...!"

Just when Anya gives up hope-

"Hold on!"

A loud voice echoed in the church, someone came forward and stand in front of Anya.

The first thing that emerged in Anya’s eyes is a dazzling golden hair.

The person in the dragon riding academy’s uniform protected Anya and the baby, and declare to Avdocha:

"I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia I request as the identity of the royal family to immediate to release the mother and its child!"

Part 13

The voice in the church, trough the magic communicator in Max’s hand, can be heard in the airship Silvanus navigation room

"I am Lautreamont Royal Knight’s family fourth Princes-Silvia I request as the identity of the royal family to immediate to release the mother and its child!"

The moment Silvia expose her own identity, Max became dumbstruck.

"What the hell is Her Royal Highness doing...!"

Ain’t she inverting root and branch? As a result, it is similar as giving Avdocha the triumph card.

"Hmph, that idiot ..."

Veronica muttered, but she didn’t show any unhappy expression.

On the other hand, it looks like she is smiling.

Part 14

"This is our country’s Princess for you!" Silvia who took the initiative to expose her own name, of course surprised Ash, but in his heart he has some other thought.

Because in this case, in order to save the mother and her child, unless Silvia came forward, there will be no other way.

"Hmm ... why bother? If you kept quiet, then you may not be notice."

Avdocha control the basilisk’s reins and approach Silvia.

"I-I am a Princess! How can I sit quietly and watch my people be killed!"

"Hehe ......how appealing, but how come your body is shaking like that?"

"This is because my fighting spirit is trembling!"

Even when she verbally did not admit defeat, but Ash could see that Silvia is obviously trying to be brave.

"Is it so, let me see how brave you are?"

Avdocha's face gave a dark smile, her hand stretched out toward her underlings. The underling pulled out a shamshir and respectfully handed Avdocha.

"Stop!"

Ash wanted to rush out to protect Sylvia, but is stopped by Avdocha’s underlings, and is held from behind.

"You idiot! Let me go!"

No matter how hard Ash struggles, the soldiers didn’t give a slightest stir. Even 'School’s number one problem child' is no match for a veteran soldier.

"Hehe...... you have good luck, your location is just right at the VIP’s seat.”

Avdocha with a grin said that, and ride her basilisk slowly move forward.

The distance with Silvia is gradually shortened.

Finally, in front of Silvia, the basilisk uses its tongue to like at Silva’s face.

"...Ewe!"

Even Silvia could barely hold back her screams, but apparently she has long been scared out of her wits.

“Look here, Silvia!”

Avodcha gave a thunderous shout, perhaps she is already prepared, Silvia opened her arms to both sides.

Then, she makes a declaration:

"To die like a knight...... is what I wish for!"

I admire your guts! "

Avdocha lifted the shamshir.

"Stop-!"

Ash’s scream cannot stop the merciless blade.

-Shaa!

Killed.

Silvia was killed.

Ash lost hope.

Part 15

"...?"

Silvia is still standing.

There is no blood on her body.

The incredible thing is, Silvia did not even feel the pain.

The next moment- only Silvia found out that, the tight uniform is no longer binding her.

Pieces of cloths like snowflakes are dancing in the air.

Silvia felt seriously humiliated.

"... why is it always like this!"

Avdocha didn’t slash at Silva’s flesh nor bones- but only her clothes.

Her naked body is like a peeled apple.

Coincidentally, the same thing happened to Veronica.

Her body, which is only covered with some clothes and underwear fragments, an almost naked type of half-naked.

Silvia covers her chest with both hands, squatting in a place and huddles into a ball. She knew Avdocha’s sight is right into her bare skin.

"Princess! Didn’t you desire to die like a knight? Where is your previous pride? You are just exposed naked to the public, and you change back to what ordinary women and children do? I almost threw op! You don’t have the right to become a knight! And it is not worthy for me to kill you! "

"I... I...!"

Be look down by Avdocha on the very start, Silvia’s emotions were gradually heated.

At the same time, she is trembling more than ever.

But it is not because of fear that she is trembling. She is trembling because she is full of fighting spirit.

-... This woman was right. What do I have to feel ashamed about? This has no difference from any ordinary women and children? And I even dare to call myself a Knight...... It will just make people laugh! Although I feel regret, but I just need to admit it. I don’t have sufficient awareness. No wonder onee-sama scolds me......!

-Be aware of yourself, Silvia Lautreamont! What’s my aim? An excellent knight? That is indeed one of my goals in the past. But I was asking too little from myself. Have to think quickly. I'm Silvia Lautreamont! What is the only realm that I can reach? To show her the future that only I can have!

At a moment, Silvia's mind received God's enlightenment, and suddenly found her answer.

"Phew... Avdocha, I'll have to thank you."

Silvia suddenly a happy expression, Ash was shocked.

Even Avdocha who already turned her back on Silvia was surprised.

"Are you mad?"

Avdocha gave ridicules laugh.

Silvia covered her chest with her hand and graceful stood up from the ground.

"Princess ......?"

Ash wants to avert his eyes from Silvia naked body but his eyes refused to move.

It is not because he has any indecent thought.

It is because of a bright shining glow that made him reluctant to avert his sight.

Avdocha and her subordinates, as well as the rest of the hostages are like Ash. Everyone's eyes are watching Silvia.

"Avdocha, you are the one who made me aware of how weak and lack of awareness am I."

“So? I’m only speaking based on the truth."

“However, I never noticed such obvious things. It is a real shame to say so... However, I have been reborn! The past me is already killed by your sword! The new Silvia is now reborn! "

"Oh... I'd like to ask to ask, what can a reborn Silvia do?"

Avdocha look at her fiercely.

The basilisk gave a frightening breath.

Even so, Silvia did not be budge.

"I am the woman who is going to become the Paladin!"

Silvia’s declaration echoed in the church loudly.

"Hee… hee… haha! Even I didn’t expect this answer... you want to become the Paladin? What nonsense! So, in order to achieve your goals, you have to try to break through this dilemma. Well, what are you ganna do? "

Unexpectedly, Silvia laughed.

"Nothing. I had said that I’m gonna become the Paladin! There are people supporting me from the back, I also has onee-sama as my family. I just need to believe in them and wait for the 'upcoming moment '! "

"Haha, don’t you think that before that I can take your life away easily?"

"If I die in your hands, it just means that I’m just so-so."

Just when Silvia heroically makes the declaration -

There is a terrible shake, a surge of raging magic cut through the floor of the church.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Ash!"

Equip in the Ark, Rebecca and Glenn jumped out from the big hole in the floor.

“- Enemy ambush!”

Avdocha’s men shouted. The soldiers in a blink of an eye move into formation, and attack Rebecca and Glenn. Even the one who is holding Ash is no exception.

"Appear! The certain hit magic spear! Gáe Bolg!"

Right after Rebecca summon her magic spear, Glenn follows by summoning his Ark-dragner’s personal Ark-weapon.

"Appear! The lightning speed magic sword! Caladbolg!"

Ash’s eyes widened.

"That's Glenn’s personal Ark-weapon......!"

The magic sword Caladbolg is giant sword which its length is comparable to Glenn’s height. Glenn without much effort swinging that sword is just like the image of lightning speed, no wonder he is Veronica’s escort’s captain.

"Hmph...... an unsightly person!"

Even when she curses them, Avdocha's is still able to smile. Ash cannot understand how she managed to stay calm.

At this time, Avdocha suddenly jumped off the back of the basilisk and rushed to the back of the altar.

"Is she...!"

Ash who realised what she is going to do clench his teeth. Even when he wants to continue chasing, the basilisk blocks his way.

The basilisk's eyeballs is rotating and continue to stare at Ash.

"Hehehe. Don’t forget I still have the bombs, it is your lost."

Avdocha at the back of the altar proudly laugh.

The reinforcement Rebecca and Glenn is still fighting and enemy soldiers. As worthy of the people of the mountains, they successfully pin down the Ark-Dragners.

Of course, as long as Rebecca and Glenn show their true ability, in a blink of an eye, they will be the winners. But they will not only kill the opponent, if they don’t hold themselves back, even the whole church will be destroyed.

-What am I going to do?

If the stalemate continues, then Avdocha is going to press the button. No, before that, he has to deal with the basilisk or else he can’t get himself close to the altar.

The problem is, an unarmed human to win against a basilisk is indeed a fantasy.

"Shoo......"

In an instant, the basilisk issued terrible breath and started stomping around.

It moves its limbs with high-speed, and like gliding on the ground it rushes towards Ash.

"Ha…?’’

Its speed surprised Ash. Although he is conscious about it, his two legs refused to move. Ash as if is jinx to become a statue, his whole body stiffened.

"Uwaaaa!"

Ash helplessly screams.

The basilisk is right in front of him opening it's mouth.

In his mind, there is a clear image of him getting bitten into pieces and broken into two main portion.

"My God ...!"

Silvia quickly covered her eyes. She did not have the courage to face the scene of Ash being shredded by the beast.

"I... how could I be so weak? Where did I get the idea of becoming a Paladin......!"

Silvia slumped to her knees.

Sniff...... her tears fell off from her eyes onto the stone floor, and gradually became wet.

"Oh ... a divine light...!"

At this time, there is a hostage with a praising tone muttered.

And the others around him are affected.

"...?"

Silvia wipes off her tears and raises her head.

A pale white light filled her entire field of vision.

After a short moment, the light can no longer be seen, there is a hot surge emerging from Silvia’s chest.

“Ash......!”

Equipped in the Ark, Ash with one hand held the basilisk’s upper jaw.

Part 16

Ouch. The left hand ‘Seikoku’ is so hot.

His consciousness is almost swept away by the powerful magic.

"- Sorry for the long wait."

Eco's voice finally can be heard in his mind.

"It's so scary... do you even know that I was nearly eaten by this thing."

Ash who now can feels the Ark’s magic cheekily smile.

He looked down to re-examine his own body. It is a set of blue colour Ark which made him remember Silvia's eyes.

"Thank you, Eco."

"D-Don’t need to thank me... I'm not doing it in order to help you, it is for the crepes okay!"

Eco cheeks are bright red cheeks.

"How is this possible? You are also a Ark-Dragner? How can we miss this information-?

While witnessing the dazzling Ark, with a look of surprise Avdocha’s almond eyes widen.

"My Pal is different from the others!"

Shouting at the same time, Ash lightly pushes the basilisk’s chin. The basilisk is stunned by Ash, its previous imposing attitude has gone.

"You are very obedient. Well, the beast seems to be very sensitive to stronger opponents."

While Ash steps forward, the basilisk obediently steps back.

"I’m stronger that you! If you are from the Asia’s, if you have some intelligence, Quickly be on your knees!"

Frighten by Ash’s voice, at first it is anxious to know what to do, then after a scream it knell down

"That's right."

Ash gently sit on its back.

"Ah! What are you going to do with Kuu-chan!"

Avdocha screams.

“Kuu-chan? Even when you look so scary, I didn’t think that you have be such a cute name. "

Ash gave a wry laugh. Kuu seems embarrassed, it twist its body.

"It seems that the situation has reversed, Avdocha. Let’s go Kuu!"

Being kicked by Ash, Kuu gave a roar and runs towards the altar.

"Hey, Hey, Kuu-chan! I’m your master!"

Avdocha who is panicked simply look like a child.

While sitting on Kuu’s back, Ash is searching for the information regarding his Ark-weapon.

Soon, a strange weapon design is spread out in his mind.

After checking the properties and the additional effect of the weapon, Ash gave a satisfied smile.

Eco managed to did what Ash proposes.

Kuu like an Asia, runs foward.

The distance between the altar is quickly narrowed.

Avdocha’s face also turns pale.

"Appear!...... The absolute Zero Holy gun-"

A extremely long gun emerge out of thin air under Ash’s summon.

Its shape similar to the Empire made sniper rifle, and also is like a spear.

The aim is lock at the altar.

While pulling the bolt. 'Kacha' , at the same time the metal sounded, the ammunition had been inserted.

"Brionac!"

Ash yelled while pressing the trigger.

A magic bullet is shot out from the muzzle follow by a loud sound. The heavy bullet shell is ejected, with a ‘Clang’ its roll on the ground.

"Uuu ...!"

The shot created a powerful recoil, which almost cause Ash to fell from Kuu’s back, but fortunately he is in his Ark, Ash is sitting stably on the saddle.

At the same time the magic bullet is shooting towards the altar, a pale blue flash can be seen.

“Kuu, retreat!”

Kuu, listening to Ash's order, run towards the opposite direction from the altar.

"What!"

Avdocha cried out in dismay.

After the frozen magic was launched, shining ice crystals can be seen.

The ice crystals gradually increase, and engulfed the entire altar together with the bombs.

"A-Avdocha-sama!"

Not only that, Avdocha’s men are also mercilessly frozen up.

"Finally......!"

Ash smile.

To fight against the Empire made bombs, experts are require. Even though the Knight Country and the Kingdom has many exiled scientists from the Empire, the problem is not enough time to recruit them.

If that being the case, it is better to risk trying to use the oracle’s power to freeze bombs, for them to be out of function- this is Ash strategy.

Ash asks Eco to produce an Ark with ice properties.

Needless to say, this idea is obtained when he is he in the Silvanusi lounge reading the novel ‘The Sky Dragon Knight Chronicles'. The protagonist in the series ‘Silva Knight’ uses the frozen magic to interrupt the operation of the machine.

Of course, Ash can’t guarantee the actual effect. He can only gamble- at least at this stage the bombs that have become ice have seize function.

"W-Wait a minute! I-......"

Avdocha is barely able to escape from the range of the frozen effects, and in the end not escape the fate of becoming and ice statue.

What need to be worry about is, before she became completely frozen, Avdocha seem to have something to say. But, in short the St Valeria’s church incident has ended.

Part 17

Up to a hundred hostages were released.

Avdocha and her men who had become ice statue is carried out with the help of the civil engineers. Those veteran soldiers, in the end, had become ice and is drag off by the Asias on a cart. Only the word pitiful can be used to describe them.

Since Kuu is Avodocha’s pet, it also has to be taken away by the escorts. Ash silently prays, in hope that Veronica will treat it well.

More importantly, he now needs to complete the task that is at hand.

Even when he knew his actions are wrong, but Ash still climb up the icy altar, and started to rescue Jessica who is tied to the winged cross.

Fortunaly, the frozen magic did not spread to Jessica. Just that, in order to avoid looking at her naked skin while trying to save her, his job has become tedious.

When Ash finally cut the rope and with both hands carry Jessica -

"Nn ..."

Jessica in Ash’s arms slowly opened her eyes.

Right after she found out that Ash is carrying her, her eyes widen.

"Y-You...... you are Ash Blake? Why...... are you in an Ark...?"

"Huh? Err…No, this is ..."

Ash regretted on his mistake.

He simply did not think that Jessica will regain her consciousness so soon.

Usher do not know how to remove the Ark. So before Eco’s magic runs out, he can only continue to wear it.

Clearly there is no other way to continue to hide the truth anymore, Ash can only give an excuse to justify.

"... Yeah, the <Silver Knights> is me. It is just that today my Ark is not silver in colour."

After Ash honestly confess, Jessica’s cheek turn red.

To use ice attacks against those mechanical bombs is simply ‘Silver Knight’ himself! Waa-wah, Ash-sama! "

"Sama?"

Ash is stunned. Jessica eyes are now watery.

Moreover, Jessica is only wearing her underwear. The cleavage made by her breast, can be seen. Even under such occasions, Ash cannot help but being seduce. In front of the beauty Jessica, the strong Ark cannot even come in handy.

"I am been determine for a long time, that my first time will be at the church altar."

"What lies! It is obvious that you had just thought about it!"

"I beg you, Ash-sama please give me your sperm now...!"

Somehow, Jessica actually began to take off her underwear on the spot. And the first thing she actually took off is her panties instead of her bra.

"Your order of taking off your underwear is too strange, or it should be said, who even ask you to take them off!"

Ash quickly held Jessica's hands to stop her.

"Do not worry."

Jessica sexy lower abdomen is slowly exposed. Eventually, even the following parts are-

"Stop! This is too casual!"

"I'm ready, Ash-sama... Her goddess St Valeria is also staring at us."

"Her goddess Valeria is a protector of law! We will be arrest!"

"Hee hee... I didn’t think that you are so introvert."

Jessica's sweet smell is disturbing Ash.

"Uuh!"

Usher inexplicably felt dizzy; he almost fell down from the altar together with Jessica.

At this time, Rebecca speaks to Ash from behind.

"Hey, Ash! Hand her to me, you go and take care of Silvia."

Rebecca had long remove her Ark. She is helping the escorts to do their tasks. She should be very busy. However, this should probably she saw that Ash is in trouble, so she could not bear in just becoming a bystander.

“Sorry to trouble you, Rebecca-san."

Ash hands Jessica to Rebecca.

"Ah, ah, Ash-sama, please stay!"

"S-Sorry... see you next time!"

Ash put Jessica’s regretful sound aside and ran to look for Silvia.

Along the way, the Ark breaks into sparkling fragments.

Part 18

Silvia is standing against the wall.

Her body wrapped in blankets given to her by the escorts. So her naked body that has been exposed not long ago is now wrapped up tightly. The thing is, her curves can still be seen. After putting in, efforts for not focusing on those curves, Ash spoke to Silvia.

"Yo, Princess. Err ... Are you okay?"

The Ash suddenly became lost, he can only squeeze out this few words. It is a little embarrassing.

"Ahh. I’m not injured...... you saved me again."

My performance in nothing much, but rather Princess you are so cool."

"Y-You... what are you talking about!”

Silvia who is blushing probably has lost all her strength, she suddenly stumbles.

"... Careful!"

Usher immediately reached out, and caught Silvia's body.

The blanket wrapped around Silvia’s body drop off and finally fell on the ground.

"A-Are you alright?"

Ash look at the place above her neck and timidly asked.

He thought that he could not escape her iron fist, but Silvia did not show her usual angry expression.

"S-Sorry. That…. My waist ... I just suddenly..."

Silvia's eyes filled with tears.

If not because Ash held her in time, she would probably have fallen.

"Otherwise, I’ll give you a piggyback."

"Huh? But..."

"You don’t have to feel shy."

Ash smiled back and gently lifted Silvia.

Silvia who felt embarrass at the start, shortly after that hold on to Ash’s neck.

At that moment, Ash felt that Silvia breasts pressing on his back has change its shape.

"...huh!"

"What’s wrong, Ash?"

"N-Nothing ..."

While being unexpectedly stimulated, he blushes and at the same time, Ash continue his pace.

Part 19

On her way to the airship Silvanus while being piggybacked by Ash.

"...?"

Silvia is suddenly plunged into an incredible feeling.

- Why is this? Being piggybacked by Ash, somehow I miss this feeling... Am I familiar with this back...?

This nostalgic atmosphere is so strong until Silvia can barely hold back her tears.

The only thing is, the gentleness of Ash’s back is just too comfortable -

Silvia without realizing, doze off.

"Paladin ~ A. B. S. 1365.5 ~" is closed. --TJYYEO (talk) 04:57, 10 May 2013 (CDT)

References and Translation Notes

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