The Reunion With Twelve Fascinating Goddesses:Volume 2

Novel Illustrations

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  Front cover

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Prologue

“I refuse”

Zesca Aldebaran’s reply was bitterly sharp.

“Sadly, I am very busy. Because of that, Tooi. I don’t have the free time to accompany you with your act of self-satisfaction called reestablishing the contract”

In an old western-style house quietly isolated outside the town.

The Aldebaran Company bought the house which was originally used by a noble and reformed it to use it as a trading base.

The group managed to get into the reception room but, the space was too dangerous to be called a reception space and was covered in a grim atmosphere.

Countless weapons such as swords, spears, shields and armors were lined up against the wall. And each one of them was gems that can be perceived as first-class goods with one glance.

Inside the room, a luxurious chair was placed on a spot which is a step taller than its surroundings.

(This is more like an audience space than a reception room)

That was the first thing Tooi thought the moment he entered the room. And immediately, he found out that this room was her hobby.

There was a single woman sitting at the back of the room with the arrogance of an empress.

She’s a beauty with dignified facial features. She has burning red hair, and sharp eyes. A black armor was covering her whole body but, on the other hand, the exposure rate is high so, it brought out an indescribable and unbalanced charm.

While folding her legs, she placed her hands on the chair’s elbow and was looking at the gang with a cold gaze.

The Deity of [Weapon Empress], Zesca Aldebaran.

One of the high ranked Spirit that only 21 exists in this world, someone that defeated the [Demon King] with Tooi as his comrade and as the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]-----

Currently, [Aldebaran Company] is the active main weapons shop with Arludea Empire’s northern region as its center. “Oh don’t be so distant. This is our long waited reunion you know”

Tooi lightly shrugged his shoulders.

Alua Schut, who came with him to this mansion, was standing by beside him. Unlike Tooi who was acting carefree, she’s shrinking from the intimidating air released by the Deity.

“Well, I’m glad you look happy. This weapon shop is apparently raking in a lot of cash. I guess Zesca has an unexpected talent in business”

Zesca let out a soft sigh in response to Tooi who said that while whistling.

“………you never change. It’s like there’s nothing to hold, or it’s like you’re totally in your own pace. Were you living a carefree attitude in your world?”

“AbuelaGrandma said this, [When in Rome, do as the Romans do], no matter which world am I in, it does not change the fact that I am myself so, I will live my life according to how I like”

“Abuela huh……….Fuun. it’s been a long time since I heard that weird speech pattern”

Zesca tiredly but somewhat relaxed her mouth from nostalgia.

However, she immediately got rid of her smile and looked over to them with a stern gaze.

“No matter what, I have no intentions to reestablish our contract and I am not interested about the actions of the other Deities in the other part of the countries. I have something I need to do now”

“And that’s……………..selling weapons to the rebellions?”

After maintaining her silence until now, Alua jumped into the situation. Her voice was terribly trembling but, it was filled with a strong determination.

“Zesca-sa………….do you know who you are selling those weapons to? Do you know how many damages the Empire’s military suffered because you sold those weapons……….”

“I don’t care”

The do-or die appeal from the young girl, was cut down by Zesca.

“The Empire’s situation and prosperity is not my problem. [Power to the ones who desire it]. That is the ideal of my shop and my current pride. I have done nothing but give my weapons to warriors who are craving for power”

“…………if the rebellion increase in power, a big revolt might occur just like how it happened with [Ifnates]……………Are you saying that it should happen?”

“Rather, that’s what I wish for”

Zesca made an arrogant smile.

“The battlefield is the only place where weapons show their true value. Swords and hammers being swung down, spears and lances piercing, arrows flying, shields and armors creaking…………the clash of pride and determination. The weapons I created will probably show its greatest shine within the ravages of war, where warriors are able to show off their soul”

Alua was standing still speechless as if she was swallowed in by that valor speech.

Profiting off the frequent occurrence of war is business for a weapons dealer.

Zesca’s words are natural judging by her position as the head of a weapons shop but, leaving that aside, Tooi thought that those words were very much like what she would say.

She loves weapons, respects weapons users and gives the ultimate praise to the winner after a death battle.

Those were words suitable for the prideful woman knight – Zesca Aldebaran who ran in the battlefield with the countless weapons she created herself.

“Any further questionnaire will be useless. Go back”

Zesca said that with an unapproachable attitude.

Tooi closed his eyes for a few seconds to think but,

“I get it. I’ll go back for today”

He quietly fall back.

“I’ll come back again”

“It’s useless no matter how many times you come. Tooi………….i will never forgive you”

Zesca’s tone was low and her eyes were burning in silent rage.

“I won’t let you say that you’ve forgotten, Tooi…..! That sentence you said at that time……!”

“…………………….”

On the other hand, while being overwhelmed by her rising rage…………”That was a really crazy foreshadowing sentence”, Tooi involuntarily could stay still.

Tooi Cross and Zesca Aldebaran.

The reunion of a master and servant that once forged a contract closed its curtain with an important hint that would help him to resolve the antagonism from her.

Yearning for the next [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] after Ryura Vega, just what reason did Tooi have to meet Zesca?

In order to explain the details, the story needs to return back to the events that occurred in the Imperial capital 1 month ago.

Chapter 1: The Normal Days In The Imperial Capital Arcul

Part 1

Alua Schut wakes up early in the morning.

She would get up at the same time with their maids living there and it’s her daily routine to train her sword skills in her mansion’s courtyard.

However for this day, after equipping her beloved Rapier and parry dagger on her hips, she headed straight to Tooi’s bedroom without heading to the courtyard.

It is to ask him to act as her training partner.

(He refused last time but, I’ll make him do it this time………!)

About 2 month ago, around the time Tooi came over to this world, he refused her with the reason of [I can’t be your partner since I don’t have any Contract Deity now].

But now.

Tooi has regained one of the deities within the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] that had obeyed him.

The Deity of [Violent Wind], Ryura Vega.

She rejected Tooi at first because of the complex situation she held within her heart but, after the battle in Fior region, both of them reestablished their contract.

His battle appearance in the later Dean plain caused a huge impact in Alua’s heart.

[Nebulosa NemesisThe Divine Punishment of the 12], [PrimeraThe First Chapter]

[Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind]

With glowing silver armor worn on his body, Tooi’s valor appearance which she saw when he overwhelmed the Lectar army with disastrous strong wind and elegant sword skills were still scorched inside her eyes.

It was an overwhelming strength worthy for him to be called the Tyrant Slayer.

A mighty warrior that can match a 1000 soldiers.

Having admired the Tyrant Slayer for 10 years, Alua could not suppress her excitement after seeing Tooi’s terrifying strength first hand.

What’s more, there are 11 more deities that possesses equal or more power than Ryura; this is no longer a laughing matter.

It is said that even one of them is able to bring down a castle alone, a high-ranking Spirit – a Deity.

Just how strong was Tooi’s golden age---the Tooi of 10 years ago which had all those 12 Deities serving under him.

Just how strong will he get in his journey to regain back the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]----

---You kill him.

---Use that sword to stab his back when he walks out the realm of humans.

“Uh!”

Alua froze when her sister’s word resurfaced in her mind.

(………i-it’s okay. it will be okay……….Onee-chan definitely exaggerated those words and it’s still a possibility to the end so it's just a small matter. No matter how strong Tooi Onii-chan gets………he won’t become the enemies of me, Onee-chan and the people living in this country)

Because, Alua thought this.

(Tooi Onii-chan, is Tooi Onii-chan after all)

After reuniting with him after 10 years, he would still give her a smile with a gentle smile which has not changed from before.

To Alua, he’s an existence like a brother to her and at the same time, the hero that save their world. It does not change the fact that he’s someone that she holds aspiration and admiration towards to.

“It’s okay”

After mumbling that as if to tell herself that, Alua slammed open Tooi’s bedroom door to get rid of the complex emotions boiling in her chest.

And she turned speechless.

She could not believe the scene in front of her.

“Ah. Good morning, Alua-chan”

In the room, Tooi greeted her in a carefree manner while,

“Kyaa! Al-Alua-san!?”

Ryura Vega revealed her bewilderment with her face turning red.

Ever since they reestablished their contract, she has been living with Tooi in the Schut mansion.

Although; since she’s a Deity, she is not captured by the concept of living like a human. She would walk around by whim and would follow Tooi from behind while in her Spirit form which does not possess a physical body.

“Ryura-san………..what’s with that look?”

Alua asked while shocked.

She possesses a mystical beauty and usually wears a beautiful outfit that seems as if it would melt into the breeze but, she’s currently wearing an unfamiliar looking outfit.

It’s was a thin cardigan over a white shirt.

It had a grey skirt and a checker patterned tie.

It looks like a uniform at first glance but, the chest area is wide open, and the sleeves were long to the point where it covered her hands; the whole impression it gives off is that it’s slightly untidy and its done so to look stylish.

“E-err, this is………”

“Well, It’s basically JK fashion”

Tooi answered for Ryura who was stammering in her words.

“Jay, kay?”

“JK. The short form for School girls. In a rough explanation, basically it’s a uniform of a females only education institute in the country I lived in. There are many more other types other than this Cardigan style”

“Haa………….Then why is Ryura-san in that so call JK fashion?”

“I explained before that the Deities manipulates the Ether in their body and can freely create their own clothes by will right?”

“Yes”

“Basically, you can say that they are normally naked based on how you think about it”

“………Is there any need to purposely explain that?”

“Yes, they are basically naked based on how you think about it”

“There is never a need to say it twice right!?”

“I thought it would be nice if she could try on more clothes since she can freely control her clothes. But well, this is just for fun”

“For fun…………”

Ryura Vega is one of the 21 Deities existing in this world.

They are owners of a power beyond human intellect and it is said that even one of them is able to take on several thousands of soldiers.

With that said, her very existence is like a myth and she’s a living legend.

(………….that legendary existence is being used as a dress-up doll by Tooi Onii-chan)

Feeling tired and admiration at the same time, Alua was in a complex mental state.

“Err……Tooi”

Ryura fiddled around her fingers while asking him with a somewhat discomposed manner.

“These clothes……….I tried making it according to Tooi’s words but, how about it? Not only is it unfamiliar to me, I am not used to wearing these clothes so, I have no idea what to think………”

“Yup. It looks really good on you. Just like what I thought”

“Really?”

Her expression glowed.

“I am so happy. It really was worth making it”

Ufufu, she smiled happily.

Just a month ago, Ryura looked at Tooi with cold eyes as if to push him away but, ever since they reestablished their contract, her attitude took a 180 degree turn.

Anyways, she’s really faithful and really obedient.

This is most likely Ryura Vega’s real personality.

(………It’s not like I don’t feel that she’s too obedient though)

Alua was not amused about Ryura overly lovey-dovey attitude but, Tooi then urged her for her for her thoughts and opinion.

“You think it suits her too right, Alua-chan?”

“Eh…….Ah, yes. That’s right. I think it looks cute”

It wasn’t lip service and was her honest opinion.

She’s unfamiliar with those weird clothes but, they elaborated the detailed designs and it’s really cute. It’s so cute to the point where she wanted to try it on herself-----

(……..Hn?)

When she stared at Ryura in the JK style, a weird feeling appeared in Alua’s mind. No, rather than a weird feeling, it’s more towards Déjà vu.

(These clothes, where have i………)

She looked into her memories for a few seconds, before noticing it.

Her face instantly turned redder by the second.

It’s because she recalled what the situation was when she saw the clothes in front of her from.

“T-Tooi Onii-chan!? Th-th-these clothes, aren’t these erotic clothes!?”

“………Heh?”

“Because……..within the books Tooi Onii-chan brought over, there were many of them with women wearing these types of clothes on the front cover!”

Around the time he was summoned to this world, Tooi brought a carry case over to this world.

Inside that, were several useful goods that only exists on the other world……..this was supposed to have happened; in a weird twist of fate----Basically a simple mistake, he brought over the case which he had planned on throwing away instead.

Which means, the objects inside were his treasures that he had planned to dispose.

The scene where many half-naked women flung out from the puffed up bag, is still stuck inside Alua’s mind even now.

“Yes………..Yes I am right! I knew it; these are the clothes on that ero magazine!”

“No! Yo-you’ve got it all wrong, Alua-chan! You are having a big misunderstanding! This appearance is not indecent!? It’s a uniform suitable for a female student attending an education institute and thousands of young girls all over Japan are going to school in this appearance!”

“Then why is this appearance on an ero magazine!?”

“That’s…………..”

“It’s clear that there are also people wearing these clothes even though they are clearly over the age of being called a young girl!”

“Th-that’s………..that’ssssssss…….!”

Tooi was amusingly stumbling on his words.

There was one person looking down at him with terribly cold eyes.

“……..Tooi. Don’t tell me…………..you used my lack of knowledge and made me wear perverted clothes!?”

“Ryura……no, you’ve got it wrong! These clothes are not perverted at all………….the clothes itself isn’t the erotic part, the importance part is what the situation the person is in……..how should I say this, rather than the clothes doing the deed, the determination of the level of eros is based on what the viewers feel about it……………”

“Tooi said [I think………….if you take on that appearance, it would tremendously increase the output of the [Deus Alma]], so I believed you………!”

Alua retorted in her heart “I can’t believe you got tricked with that”.

As expected, she does not have the courage to retort a Deity face on.

“Hmph”

Ryura looked to the side as if she was sulking before lightly waving her hands. Ether light then covered her body and her usual magical outfit came back in the next moment.

“Aaah………..”

Tooi was extremely disappointed.

Maybe his depression was too much, he did not noticed Ryura said […….You should have told me that it was erotic clothes from the start] while pouting.

“……….so, Alua-chan. What’s up?”

After saying that, Alua finally recalled back her goal.

“Tooi Onii-chan. I came here to ask you to help with my training today”

“Training? Un, okay. Then, let’s----“

“No”

Alua told him.

“Please fight 1 vs 1 with me”

In the fight with the Lectar’s military, Alua saw Tooi’s tremendous power.

She felt an indescribable excitement after seeing the gallant figure of her admired [Tyrant Slayer] but, on the other hand, she felt an unsolvable sense of regret in her heart.

Even though she’s assigned to be Tooi Cross’s partner, she feels really apologetic that she was given a piggy back during the whole important part.

In the first place……….she felt alienated.

(Err? Did I just become air?)

She thought that plenty of times.

Speaking of Alua’s achievements in the last battle-----

When Tooi and Ryura was exchanging a passionate kiss to prove their re-contract-----She was fighting with the forest Spirits at the sidelines.

After Tooi and Ryura reestablished their contract, he equipped the solemn [Deus Alma] and took on the Lectar’s military from the front------While, she was quietly hiding behind the forest and looking at them from behind.

(…….There should be a limit on how sad it can get)

Which that said, Alua plans to change that regret and sadness into the desire to improve herself so, she requested Tooi for a duel today.

Of course, she knew she couldn’t win.

She’s fully aware that there’s no way someone as weak as her could fight Tooi.

But, but even so.

Alua took on Tooi from the front.

She wants to learn as much as possible by confronting the legendary hero.

By understanding the absolute difference of strength by being beaten down to a pulp, she would grind down her inexperience and use that to improve herself.

However----

“Eh?”

*Kan*

The wooden sword flicked up into the sky before falling onto the courtyard’s lawn.

“I-I give up. I lost”

With the wooden sword poking towards his throat, Tooi raised his hands and surrendered.

A duel was commenced in the mansion’s courtyard.

Even though it’s a duel, it was obviously not a fight with their full strength. It’s still a practice match to the end. Of course for [Deus Alma] and [Ray Alma], any other Spirit techs are prohibited. Their weapons are not real swords but wooden swords. As a result of a discussion, they decided to fight under such restrictions first.

A duel with pure swordsmanship.

Another way to put it, it’s a comparison of individual power without using the power of their Contract Spirits.

As a result, the one who won was Alua.

“No way……….”

Impossible, Alua was making that expression. After she pulled away her wooden sword without hiding her bewilderment, Tooi let out a small sigh before making a lax smile.

“Iyaaa, I lost, I lost. Alua-chan, you’re really strong”

“………..Tooi Onii-chan. Are you holding back?”

“I didn’t hold back. I gave it my all”

Tooi easily admitted his defeated without any showing any signs of excusing or regret.

Alua was shocked. She could not believe her own victory.

(Weak……..no he wasn’t. it’s not like he’s weak but……..)

Tooi’s sword skills are about Alua’s level. As a result of getting offensive when she got the chance, she managed to win this time by luck but, she does not know if she could do the same next time.

That’s why it’s weird.

There’s no way that the strength of the man that is told to be the [Tyrant Slayer], that commanded the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses], to be in the same level as her.

“I said this before, all of my power is the power of the Deities I made contracts with. My own power isn’t a big deal”

Alua agreed for a moment there but, she immediately swung her head.

(No. That’s because, Tooi Onii-chan’s movements today were different from that time)

There’s a heaven and earth difference of movements compared to the movements he done when he fought the Lectar’s military while using the [Deus Alma] with Ryura----[Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind]. He had body movements like a fairy and the sword skills of a war god but, there were no signs of that today.

(At that time………somehow, it looked so natural and he looked so carefree when he fought)

In response, today’s Tooi---looked somewhat restricted. There’s hesitation in his sword skills and body movements; it’s as if someone borrowed his body, that kind of weird feeling.

“Fufu. You’ve lost, Tooi”

When Alua was in thought, Ryura appeared out from nowhere and made a mischievous smile towards her master that had lost.

“As usual, Tooi can’t do anything without us Deities”

“Haha. No excuse for this”

Both of them laughed. Not only Tooi but even Ryura easily accepted her master’s easy lost.

Alua was getting more confused but, when she’s like that,

“Hey, Alua-chan”

Tooi asked her as if he thought up with something.

“Now that I think about it, are there any new Deity knights that appeared in this 10 years other than me?”

“Eh?”

“No, I am kind of curious. When I was at my world, basically the time when Hadar was rampaging around the continent, it seems that there were no Deity knights other than me……….10 years passed since then so, it’s not weird that someone like that might appear”

Deity knight.

Having succeeded in making a contract the high rank Spirit – the [Deity], only the person that successfully manifest the [Deus Alma] - the Deity weapon created by using their weapon as a medium is allowed to be called by that name in this continent.

There are only a countable number of people with that title in history. In other words, heroic figures that are accepted by the Deity rarely appear.

The people called Deity knights will most definitely be related in the continent’s history—no, they have no choice but to be related.

By using the Deities tremendous powers, the Deity knight will cause a ripple by distorting the existing society, in good or bad ways.

If there are kings and heroes, there are also people with the title [Enemy of the world].

A contract of a human and Deity alone, is treated as a historical event.

“None. There’s no way a Deity knight will appear that easily”

“Ahaha. True”

“……….and, that’s what I wanted to say”

After making a feint, Alua continued on.

“Actually, there is currently only person in the Empire that turned into a Deity knight”

Tooi opened his eyes wide.

“Really?”

“Yes. It’s based on the knowledge gained by the Empire’s military in the end though”

“So we are clear that there is one person……so, what kind of person is that?”

“Sachs Hayern. A former captain of the Empire’s military at the southern HQ”

“Fuuun. I don’t know who that is. If that Spirit practitioner is so good to the point where a Deity accepted him, I think he would be quite famous even from 10 years ago though……..”

In the battle with the Demon king 10 years ago, Tooi was often thrown into the front lines under the Empire military that Laila Schut is associated with. He experienced many fights together with the Empire’s proud elites.

In the first place, that also means that only the Empire’s leading elites are allowed to stand on the same battlefield as Tooi Cross.

“If it’s someone I don’t know then…………he was either hiding his real strength 10 years ago, or, his strength increased exponentially in these 10 years”

“I don’t know which is correct but………..i think it’s the latter one. The former captain Havern, was originally a normal soldier at a remote area after all. In terms of his Spirit knight abilities……….i think he is just below average; I heard this from Laila Onee-chan”

“Below average? How did a guy like that become a Deity knight”

“The details are unknown. From the information told by the central, we are sure that the former captain Havern became a Deity knights 5 years ago. Ever since then, he took a big promotion and reached the status of captain within 3 years”

“A normal soldier became a captain in 3 years……..the Deities power is amazing”

“………….It kind of sounds ironic when Tooi Onii-chan says that”

A male soldier that had no achievements that stands out reached the status of captain after ignoring all the strict rules and theory in the military by a single fact that [He made a contract with a Deity].

Having 12 of those powerful Deities under his command; the legendary existence known as Tooi Cross---that’s basically the man in front of Alua right now.

Even the [Sage of Creation] who is said to be the creator of Spirit techs – The legendary sage that ordered 5 deities, gets overshadowed by him.

“But Alua-chan. Since you said [Former] Captain, it means that he retired?”

“Yes”

“Why? His status is secured even in the military with the power of the Deity. Depending on his actions, he should be able to reach a higher status than captian”

“T-that’s………..”

Alua stumbled her words; something happened at that moment.

A woman’s high-pitched scream echoed from outside the tall walls. It did not end with one. Voices of fears from females and children followed on immediately after that.

After Alua raised her face in reflex, she could hear shouting from a group of male.

“What’s wrong!? What happened!?”

“Th-this is bad! A group of the [Wings of crimson light] that were being escorted to the 1st prison escaped when the guards weren’t paying attention!?”

“What!? Don’t tell me the rebellion army……..sneaked into this sector!?”

“Yes………..and what’s more, the escapees, are all Spirit knights. Apparently skilled weapon users even in the [Wings of crimson light] hidden weapons at their stomach………..”

“………Impossible. There are embassies and mansion of nobles in this sector. If criminals that can use [Ray Alma] snuck into here, who knows what damages will occur…..”

She immediately knew that the emergency voices exchanged outside the wall belonged to the military police. Alua’s face gradually turned pale.

“No way……..people from the [Wings of crimson light] escaped………?””

“[Wings of crimson light]?”

“They are mainly active in the Empire’s northern side. A faction of the rebellion. I heard that a group that got captured was planned to be imprisoned but……I didn’t think they would escape the guards”

Alua clenched her teeth in regret. She then wanted to run towards the mansion’s exit but, Tooi caught her arm to stop her.

“Where are you going, Alua-chan”

“Isn’t it obvious! I am going to help the citizens!”

Apparently all of the rebellion members are all Spirit knights. They are too strong for the city’s police. No one will be able to fight them unless they are able to use [Ray Alma] themselves.

That’s why, Alua wanted to head straight there, but.

“You don’t need to go”

“Wha!? Wh-why!?”

“What’s with the why…….”

“It’s true that………I am still an inexperienced Spirit knight. I don’t know how strong the rebellion is too but, as an officer of the Empire’s military; I can’t keep quiet and watch! I have a job to protect the citizen’s peace!”

“Nope, not that-----“

In response to Alua who was talking passionately about her pride as a military personal, Tooi told her that with a bitter smile.

“---because everything is over”

She did not understand at first. Alua turned speechless after she saw the other arm instead of the arm that Tooi was grabbing her with.

The black short sword was pulled out from his hips before she noticed and was in his right equipped on his right arm.

Deity sword Zodiac.

A one and only legendary sword made only by high-quality [Etherium].

Surrounding the short sword, a shell was constructed from Ether and it formed a silver sword.

[Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind]

The beautiful slender sword manifested when he activates the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] with Ryura Vega, was brilliantly glowing in his hands.

However, unlike 1 month ago, Tooi’s body was not covered by silver armor. It only appeared on the silver blade extending out from the Zodiac and the gauntlet equipped on his right hand, everything else was normal.

“Partial activation of the [Deus Alma]…….?”

Alua opened her eyes wide in shock.

With the weapon used as the medium to perform the fusion with the Spirit, the technique to materialize them as weapons and armors is given the title, the ultimate battle Spirit tech – [Ray Alma].

The image strongly created by the practitioner and Spirit will manifest in this word as a weapon.

Breaking down the image completed after a long time of training, and using only a part of that part is extremely difficult; it is sad that it is a god move that only veterans can use.

Even though that is the case, Tooi was right now performing that partial activation with ease.

It was done so fluently and so quietly to the point where Alua could not even senses it.

What’s more, the skill he is performing right now is not [Ray Alma] but rather, the partial activation of the [Deus Alma].

The weapon with tremendous energy was not overexerting at all, was not stagnating at all and he was controlling it as if it was a part of his limbs. That probably proves that he has full control of the Deity’s power.

In response to Alua who was staring at him blankly, Tooi mumbled as if it isn’t a big deal.

“…….5 of them. Hey Alua-chan. I stopped the escaped rebellion members so, it’s okay if I beat them up right?”

“Eh? Eeh? Wh-what do you mean? You stopped them…….what’s more, how do you know their numbers?”

“It’s Ryura’s power. If I activate [Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind], I can fully grasp the surrounding [Wind flow]. It was easy to find them since they were making a mess. I made a small tornado and sealed their movements”

“Ca-can you really do that?........”

“if it’s 5, then I can manage”

Tooi closed his eyes. He was feeling the surrounding wind with his skin and was probably looking at a world that he and Ryura are the only one in this world that are able to.

“So, what should I do Alua-chan? Can I beat them? Or, I can make it look like a little accident and give the credit to the police?”

“I-it’s okay. Just beat them……”

After Alua told him that, Tooi [Okay] lightly nodded.

He then raised the slender sword in his right hand and sliced the wind 5 times. His sword skills were shockingly beautiful and the sword movements were so beautiful to the point it made her mesmerized by reflex.

He’s a complete person compared to when he used the wooden sword.

“Okay. All done”

After lightly swinging his sword, Tooi finished his sentence and released the partial activation on his right arm. The silver shell creating the slender sword turned to light and dispersed.

“I knocked all of them out and broke their weapons. I moved them to an unpopulated area so; I think the police will settle the rest”

After saying that in a carefree manner while returning his short sword back to his hips, he thanked Ryura who returned back to her normal form. Alua was frozen in place while looking at their peaceful chat.

(Amazing……..)

He suppressed 5 spirit knights in an instant.

It might be a natural result judging by how he overwhelmed an army of 2000 but, to think that he would defeat the enemies scattered in the city without moving from this spot.

(Amazing….but, then, why?)

An intense odd feeling attacked Alua.

The Tooi that performed the partial activation [Deus Alma] so naturally and the uncomforting sword skills Tooi showed just now in the mock battle did not match up inside her.

He is completely treating the Deities power as his own.

But even so, why does it look like his movements were lowered----

(Ah)

Alua suddenly knew.

She remembered it.

The reason why Tooi fought 10 years ago.

(That’s right. Tooi Onii-chan……….fought for his grandmother)

Not for the country and not for the people.

He fought only for his grandmother.

All for his single family, everything was to see her last moments.

(Defeating the [Demon King], is just………….simply a method to Tooi Onii-chan)

That was everything.

Even the contracts with the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] are just a method for that method.

Basically----

(To Tooi Onii-chan……..everything is okay as long as the demon king is defeated)

It’s not for world peace and it’s definitely not to become a hero. He just wanted to go back to his world. He had no choice but to go back to his grandmother as fast as possible.

His status in the world after the demon king is defeated, and his individual strength probably means absolutely nothing to Tooi Onii-chan.

---…….That’s overestimating. The deities I contracted are the ones strong and it’s not that I am amazing.

--- If in fighting game terms, I, am kind of like a set character that can only use ultimate skills.

His sentences were not modesty and might be the truth in a certain angle.

Tooi Cross’s [Strength] is too [Biased].

Positioning, body movements, sword skills, Spirit tech……..all of his strength and techniques are created with the condition of the contracts with the Deities.

(In these few months, I saw him training many times but………I feel that Tooi Onii-chan has fixed himself always fighting together with someone from the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses])

10 years ago, Tooi probably poured all his time just to master the [Deus Alma].

That’s the fastest method to defeat the demon king.

Thanks to that, he is able to use the Deities powers like his limbs but in return, he was unable to polish his individual strength.

He scraped off every single needless factor; he even cut off his own self to reach it – a single land and the farthest land by innocently set on one point.

Tooi Cross was completely devoted in using the Deities power--- No; maybe calling it “Soaked in” would be a better choice.

He was using it.

He was soaked in it.

Completely and deep inside it.

What was created from that was an irregular existence known as the [Tyrant Slayer].

The escaped rebellion members were injured by a local unnatural tornado and kamaitachi and were captured again without causing any violence.

Alua took on the role to explain the situation to the police so Tooi returned into the mansion.

After taking a light shower to wash off the sweat, I asked about Laila’s whereabouts from the head maid Cecil who happens to passed by me, and she told me that she has not left her bedroom.

Even though it’s the afternoon, apparently she’s still asleep.

(She’s so weak against the morning as usual)

He was forced to know about how terrible Laila’s sleeping posture and how bad she wakes up during the time travelled the whole continent in his last summoning.

Tooi headed to her bedroom while remembering old memories.

(We need to get her up soon as expected)

It was set that he would be going out with Laila in the afternoon. She’s the type that gets ready quick for a female but, she has to eat lunch so it’s probably best to go over to wake her up.

I went up the stairs and reached Laila’s room.

There was no reply even though I knocked. After I slowly opened the door, apparently this should be expected, she was still on her bed sleeping comfortably.

“I knew it……….and now, how to wake her”

He started coming up with a plan while looking down at the sleeping Laila.

The first thing that came up was to pull away her blanket but, there were plenty of times where Laila would strip off her pajamas in this season. When he looked down, as expected, her pajamas were off the side of her bed.

So pulling her blanket away is a no-----

(---no wait. Shouldn’t that be the reason why I should pull it away. If i pull it away while pretending to not noticed anything, things would settle as an accident…….no but, my conscience will…….no no no but, it’s not every day I get this chance……..)

A fierce war between devil and angel was inside his heart. After 10 seconds of agony, Tooi somehow managed to cut down the devil’s invitation.

Since I could not come up with anything, I tried waking her up using the old shaking method.

“Oi, Laila. Wake up”

“Hn…….”

“It’s noon already. We promised to go out after lunch right?”

“Hn~~……..you’re so noisy, Alua”

She only groaned and there were no signs of waking up.

What’s more, it seems that she’s still dreaming and mistook Tooi for Alua who is usually the one that would wake her up.

After Tooi lightly sighed, he shook Laila together with the blanket. She then distorted her expression displeased and----

“Hnn~~……..Shut up”

*Gabaa*

The blanket on the bed opened up like a carnivorous beast.

“……..Heh?”

When he was taken by surprise, *Gulp*

Tooi was swallowed inside the blanket. If this was seen from the sidelines, this scene probably fits the word [Predation]. The person on the bed pulled his arm and forcefully brought him inside the blanket.

(Eh, Ah……Wha!? Wh-what just----)

“Fuhaha, Gotcha, Alua”

Inside the blanket, the mumble from close distance was Laila’s sleepy voice when she is still mistaking Tooi for Alua.

Since he was completely swallowed inside the blanket, Tooi’s view was completely covered in darkness. However, the soft sensation felt around his whole body, was telling him the detailed situation that he was being grappled.

(No good…….this is not good at all)

He was completely glued to her.

Her exposed skin. Warm breath. And the female’s characteristic sweet smell was tickling his nose.

Maybe it’s because he could not see her, he felt oddly excited. Laila’s first class body that he is feeling in the dark is unusually destructive.

Without noticing Tooi’s excitement and panic, the underwear appearance Laila played with his body and hugged him.

“Hahaha. How is it Alua. Give up? This is the punishment for always disturbing my beauty sleep”

You’re the one that told me to wake you up. Tooi had no time to retort that now.

He was stuck in between her rightly meaty thighs while her slender arms invaded into his clothes with seductive movements.

And more importantly – her breasts.

Her overly voluptuous breasts, was stimulating his body because it was squeezing into different shapes. It’s an unescapable prison of pleasure. Tooi could not move at all and had no choice but to stiffen up, in a lot of meanings.

“Hnn~`….? What’s this Alua? Did your breasts turned smaller when I haven’t touched you for a while? There should be a small bump but, it’s as if you have a male’s chest today…….”

“Wa-wait……”

“What’s more, why does it feel as if you’ve gotten bigger…….Your body build is kind of bony”

“St-stop…..muguh”

“Hn? What’s with you? Did you put something between your crotch?”

“uh!?”

“What’s with this rod-like object…….? Un? It’s kind of getting harder the more I grab hold----“

“------TIME OUT! This is bad!”

Having reached his limits in a lot of ways, Tooi shouted with his face red. He swung off Laila’s restraints with all his strength and jumped out from the blanket.

“Uwah, so bright…….”

“How long do you plan on dreaming, Laila! It’s me, ME!”

“…….Hnnn”

After scratching her eyes several times, Laila made wrinkles between her eyebrows and looked carefully at him. She has a serious case of shortsightedness but, she can probably see the person in the same bed as her with her naked eyes as expected.

After carefully observing at close distance,

“U-uwaaaaaaa! Tooi!?”

Laila shouted in shock and jumped up.

“What the hell are you doing!? Di-did you come to jump at me at night!?”

“It’s the afternoon! How can I attack you at this time!...........No, I won’t come at night too though!”

“Then why……….why did you crawl into my blanket?”

“I was forcefully pulled inside!”

“Mu………I see. Un…….so that’s why”

Maybe she recalled her own actions, Lail;a slowly regained her calm.

“Aah. Oh yeah. I mistook you for Alua and made you taste my [Laila Special Hold]”

“Hmm, is that the name of that move………?”

“No wonder I couldn’t find any breasts. It felt odd but, I kind of let it slide after thinking [Well, it’s Alua so this is about it]”

“………Alua-chan will cry if she hears that you know?”

“By the way, about the rod between your crotch”

Laila looked at her hand as if to recall back that feeling.

After that, she directed a mischievous devil smile at him.

“Fuu~~n. I see I see. Looks like you were quite turned on huh. Was my body that charming to you?”

In response to Laila’s expressing her unrestrained fun, Tooi looked down while getting a complex feeling of regret and embarrassment.

“Fufufu. You’re really a closet pervert”

“…….Leave me alone. Every male will become like that. Rather, how long do you plan to be in your underwear? How about covering yourself a little?”

“Fuun. Showing you my underwear after all this time, I don’t feel anything”

Without trying to cover herself, Laila boldly puffed out her chest. Those giant breasts covered only by those light underwear, jiggled a little at that moment.

“In the first place, you might get horny after seeing my underwear appearance”

Laila did not stop smirking.

A woman in her underwear and a man staring at her in it. Even though the male will be sued of sexual harassment in this situation no matter how much thought is put into it, Tooi felt as if he was he was the one endlessly sexually harassed.

1 year ago, during the time he travelled with Laila, there were many times he witness her 17 year old naked body due to accidents but, her charm right now could not even compare to before.

She grew, matured making her body polished glamorously.

“What’s wrong, Tooi. How giving your thoughts on this?”

“………Aah”

Tooi nodded and slowly observed her body carefully,

“You kind of……gotten meaty”

He mumbled that.

He was serious as if he had fully thought about it.

It was not sarcasm nor was it an insult; he had actually planned to praise her in his own way.

Actually, Laila’s body got meatier compared to 10 years ago. It definitely did not meant [Fat] but, it looks like flesh ratio got a bit better.

In slightly substituting the smooth and tight skin texture, she gained the highest quality of fitness and fluffiness; something like that kind of expression.

Anyways, to Tooi, the word [Meaty] is a sort of praise and it is his honest expression from the joyful emotion that was created when he received the [Laila Special Hold] skill.

However, he did not know it.

He did not know that the word [Meaty], would become an discriminative insult no different from [Fatass] and [Pig], depending on how the female takes it -----

“……………”

*Smile*

Laila smiled quietly.

That smile was so scary it would give anyone the chills.

She got off her bed silently and walked off while in her underwear.

“Eh……H-hey Laila? Where are you going looking like that?”

“Isn’t it obvious? I am going to shout as loud as possible outside my room and cry out that I was stripped by you when I was sleeping”

“You trying to kill me!?”

“Fufufu….Fuhahahaha. That’s right. I’ll even add in the fact that I was drugged yesterday. Just you wait, Tooi. I’ll establish the fact that you are a perverted maniac that has a fetish of raping females when they are asleep”

“There should be a limit on fabricating the truth!? I don’t have any fetishes on raping females when they are asleep! Rather, I would prefer the opposite and have the female sneak in when I am the one asle----, No, forget that forget that. Anyway wait for me Laila!”

Tooi has no clue what he did wrong but, he desperately tried to stop Laila to protect his social status and his dignity.

A few hours after the commotion when she woke up.

Laila Schut was walking in the central HQ’s corridor.

With her military uniform worn neatly, her appearance when she’s striding around with her chest puffed out, had the majesty and dignity suitable for someone with the status of a commissioned officer.

However in her case, the more she walked around with her chest puffed out, her already huge breasts looks even flashier.

(Meaty….Aah, I get pissed off each time I remember that)

Laila’s insides were boiling in anger when she recalled the events in the morning.

She had already separated from Tooi who came out from the mansion with her.

Both of them had different matters after the afternoon today. Laila prepared a carriage to attend a conference in the military and Tooi accompanied her half-way there.

(Seriously, I can only describe his lack of delicacy as pathetic!)

Laila was violently enraged.

She’s completely playing innocent after all the sexual harassment she has done.

(In the first place, I am still 26 you know!? I am not drooping from old age……n-nope I am not, I think. I’m not right? Unn, it’s wrong……..right?)

Laila Schut is fundamentally arrogant and haughty and is usually filled with confidence but, as a maiden, she had no choice but to feel skeptical about her own age.

Ever since he reunited with Tooi Cross after 10 years, that trend turned especially stronger.

Tooi who has not changed much at all from before and herself after aging 10 years.

It’s only impossible to not worry about the difference.

Even though she’s military commissioned officer at a young age, she is still a woman.

(I-it’s true that……….i got flabbier compared to before……Ever since I left the site after working in the central, I have done nothing but mental labor and have not been exercising lately……..)

Uuumu, Laila was seriously in thought.

She confirmed her flesh condition by touching her waist and butt before “Hey it’s still okay, no but being careless will be deadly to me”……….thinking that. ---it was at that moment,

“Fuaaaa”

She encountered a man when she turned the corner.

It’s a young man with a tall lean body. He’s wearing the Empire’s military uniform but, the buttons were not put in place and was worn messily. His facial features are well arranged but, he’s eyes are annoyingly narrow.

Laila noticed that he was the one letting out those loud yawns.

“Oh hey there, why if it isn’t major general Schut. Long time no see”

He talked to her in a friendly manner. His expression and voice was gentle and cheerful but, he won’t direct his narrow eyes towards Laila. It was directed towards the light black leather cover notebook in his hands.

“…….Yes, it’s been a long time. Mister Cougar”

Laila’s expression when she replied back was obviously stiff.

That’s the result from somehow subduing the disgust from flowing out.

(Aah…….i see. This man is attending today’s conference too)

To Laila when rising in the military, [Creating expressions] [Hiding her true intentions] is a daily action to her. Sometimes she made a satisfied smile. Sometimes she gets tears by acting in grief. She could freely control her expression to skillfully create human relations.

But even for that Laila, she is unable to perfectly control her expression when it comes to confronting this man in front of her.

She just can’t stop the insuppressible disgust and hatred from oozing out.

The only [Tactician] of the Empire’s military.

That occurs each time she bumped into Astarot Cougar.

“Fuaaaa. Oh sorry. Iyaaa, actually, I didn’t sleep much yesterday. I think I only slept about 2 hours. This is seriously tough. Aah………I envy free people. I am always given jobs to do so I don’t have any free time at all”

“……………….”

“Of course for Military work, I am being chased from my writing profession recently. It’s that, you know that. It’s the so called [Deadline]. Ah, sorry sorry. It’s a feeling that people that has not experienced it will not understand. I said it according to my feeling”

“………………….”

“Should I be happy or sad…..oh how problematic, looks like its being sold again, my novel. It’s about time to take a break so, I prayed in my mind [Don’t sell well now] but……….it’s being sold like hotcakes again. I was pestered to continue and now I’m busy. It would be so nice if it didn’t sell well………oops, no good. Saying that sounds kind of like sarcasm. In the world, there’s a mountain full of authors having problems bringing food to the table”

“…………………”

“Even I am often told that I talk too much. Even though I know it’s not good, my true thoughts just can’t help coming out from my mouth. I’m bad with annoying indirect actions like being humble or saving face. Because of that, I end up quarreling with my surroundings……..but, I can’t help it. Because, it’s just who I am”

“…………………..”

So annoying.

Laila maintained her force smile and desperately concealed her true thoughts.

He’s the same-----no, Astarot Cougar is more annoying than usual.

(……..I wish this man would die from some kind of funny disease)

Honestly, Laila hates this man.

Rather than calling it hate, it’s more like physiological rejection.

She cannot cooperate with him at all. She hates everything about him. She does not like his overly self-conscious personality at all. It feels like she would get rashes just looking at him.

Anyways; she completely rejects the human known as Astarot but, the reason why Laila hates him was not only because the incompatibility of their personality.

Even in their current status in the military, to Laila, Astarot is an existence like a bump above her eyes.

“So it looks like Mister Cougar is attending today’s conference too”

“Yep. I was kind of requested to. It’s my bad habit to be unable to reject requests. Honestly, I hate things like meetings and discussions. I just can’t help to feel that a group of humans quarrelling endlessly is just a waste of time. Oh you know, I am the type that likes to decide what I want to do”

I don’t fucking know, she swallowed down those words.

“It can’t be helped. Mister Cougar is a talented tactician that the Empire’s military is proud of. Everyone is asking for your opinion”

She gave him a polite compliment.

Tactician.

Such a position did not original exist in the Arludea Empire’s military.

Astarot was a vagrant from another country and lost his way into this country about 10 years ago.

Apparently he was originally living at a nearby village as a [inventor]. The first princess laid eyes on his after observing him to have unique calculative abilities and his special innovative skills before moving him to the imperial capital. Ever since then, he became a supporter of a faction led by the 1st princess and is deeply related to politics and military strategies.

Conclusively speaking – Astaroth is terrifyingly talented.

He has come up with many inventions that would replace existing inventions, suggests several useful strategies, and contributed a lot to the Empire’s military. That talent did not stop only in the military; it has even appeared in all fields such as engineering, architecture, literature, music and art.

After the defeat of the Demon king, basically after Tooi Cross defeated the Demon King Hadar, this man could be described as the one that contributed the most to the Empire until today for 10 years.

With his achievements all acknowledged, the emperor gave Astaroth the title of 1st generation [Tactician].

He would not be controlled by feudal nobles and Military ranks, and would use his free status to give advice/meddle with domestic affairs – this is the special privilege given to the tactician Astorot Cougar.

(……What a messed up success story)

Laila cursed him in her mind.

Even though she grabbed the status of general at a young age of mid-twenties, she felt really irritated and pissed at Astarot’s evident joy of his status which is higher than hers when they are the almost at the same age.

Although Laila is a daughter of Arludea’s prided grand noble – The Schut family, the status which she reached by fully using her house’s authority, was easily obtained by a foreign wanderer only with his own knowledge. It’s only normal that this wasn’t amusing to her.

“Is Major general Schut attending today’s conference too?”

“Yes”

“Now this is joyful. If Major general Schut attends, it will probably end fast. In the higher ups of the Military, I think someone like you is able to keep up to my level”

So annoying.

Laila killed those emotions and made an ambiguous smile. This is the only man Laila’s knows of that would make her so disgusted even though she praised him this much.

His ultimately annoying personality and ridiculous talent.

That’s the reason why Laila is disgusted with Astarot.

“Ah. Now that I think about it, Major general Schut, how’s the 2nd generation doing?”

While looking down at his note, Astoroth asked her as if he recalled that.

2nd generation is referring to Tooi Cross who is currently living in Laila’s house.

He is being referred with titles such as [2nd generation] and [Tooi Cross’s successor].

Of course he’s the hero that defeated the Demon King – basically the same person as the 1st generation but, in order to explain about him who has not aged for various reasons; it was easier to say that he is the 2nd generation instead.

“Even though you asked how……I can only say that he is normal. Just like the 1st generation, he is living in my house. The Deity of [Violent Wind] Ryura Vega is obediently obeying him for the time being”

“That is excellent. But how should I put this……….Major general Schut really is lucky huh. Following with 10 years ago, you added a man that can use the Deities power under your control again. You’re really lucky”

“No no. My luck cannot be compared to Mister Cougar’s”

“I wish you would teach me how to get it. Aah…….but, is it a fun method that males can’t do? If that’s the case then I would like you to teach me that on the bed”

“I’ll take up that offer anytime you want. I think the newspaper reporters would be happy to write an article about the lower half condition of the Empire’s military genius tactician, Astarot Cougar”

Laila responded in a familiar manner to his sarcasms and sexual harassment but, Astorat smiled and pointed towards her before.

“You pass. That’s nice. Things won’t be interesting for me if you don’t reply as much”

He said that.

It’s pretty obvious that killing intent was boiling inside Laila’s chest.

“Well, regardless, this is really interesting. 10 years has passed since Tooi Cross disappearance and a Deity knight that self-proclaimed himself to be the 2nd generation appeared again. Let’s watch what that young man would bring us shall we”

While saying that happily, Astaroth lowered his sights to the note-like object at his hand. He then used the fingers on his other hand to touch the opened notebook many times.

“………I have been wondering this from before but, what meaning does that action holds, Mister Cougar?”

Astarot is always walking around with his small black leather notebook. Whenever he moves, whenever he talks to others, there were many times his sights were directed to that notebook. It’s not like he’s writing on it and sometimes; he would draw cross-like signs on it with his fingers.

“Hn? Aah, you don’t have to worry about this. It’s kind of like a ritual”

“A kind of ritual…….?”

“it’s a religious act told in my hometown. In that country, regardless if we are in a meal or moving around, many people would touch their [Holy book] on their hands with their fingers. It’s weird right?”

“……That’s true”

“But, the people there are not aware of this and won’t question this. That’s basically what you call a group and the same time a country---well then. While we are having this idle chat, I guess it’s about time”

After Astarot finished touching his [Holy book], he closed it and put it into his military uniform’s pocket.

“Can I expect something from you for today’s conference, Major general Schut? That’s because the top for today, is your beloved problems regarding the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]”

As if to provoke her, or maybe as if to test her, Astarot told her.

“The Deity of [War Empress] – Zesca Aldebaran. The weapon shop built by that deity has grown to a level where he can no longer ignore it. I wonder how you and the 2nd generation Tooi Cross would settle this problem……….”

Part 2

“Hnaa~~ But you know Too-kun~~”

The lowest floor of the underground basement of the Imperial capital’s first prison.

Living a lazy life inside the prison, La Shii Fomalhaut let out a characteristic yawn while opening her mouth tiredly.

“I feel kind of complex if you come over to meet me this casually, just because you live nearby~~”

“It’s okay right? I feel like seeing your face”

“You know~~ I want to stay on the position of the last boss. I want Too-kun to fight, fight; fight and fight………get really really strong and would come to challenge the strongest enemy, which is me, kind of like that? That’s why, I kind of~~ feel that everything is messed up if you come over so care freely even though there’s nothing important to discuss”

“I knew you were going to think like that so I came here to play since I am free”

“Aah~~ I see~~. Now that’s one loss. Ahaha~~ I knew it, Too-kun is interesting”

After accompanied Laila to the Central HQ, the place Tooi headed to after getting off the horse carriage half-way was the Imperial capital’s 1st prison where La Shii is living in.

Originally, this place needs several piles of documents to attend to but, since Tooi is well known in the military as the [2nd Generation], he was about to enter the last floor with a face pass.

The Deity of [Time & Space] – La Shii Fomalhaut.

It might be hard to believe from her carefree actions, words and her appearance which can only as be seen as a young girl but, within the deities that possesses tremendous power, she’s the owner of a power that is on another dimension compared to them.

Everyone accepts the fact that she’s the strongest Deity within the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses].

However, since she has terrifyingly lazy personality which is on contrary to her power, she is not active now and is indulging in a life where she sleeps every day.

Days ago, Tooi and La Shii reunited after 10 years with Laila guiding him here.

He received the Zodiac from her and they made a vow to fight with a wager to have their ass licked.

Roughly speaking, they parted with a tension that is kind of like [I will definitely defeat you].

Despite all that, Tooi was currently visiting her naturally.

There was no particular reason for this.

He came over because he wanted to see her face. Able to do something this naturally is the personality of the man called Tooi Cross.

Both of them were inside a cage playing chess. There were various toys in the prison where La Shii lives because of her selfishness.

This chess game started with no particular reason but……….the contents were all crude.

“Alrighty. Okay, Too-kun, checkmate~~”

“No that’s a lie. The knight can’t move there”

“Eh~~ It can’t move like this?”

“………should be”

“Oh let it slide. My knight is a special case~~”

“If that’s the case then, I’m going for castling. Changing the position of pawn and king”

“Eh~~. What’s that, that’s cheating~~”

“It’s not cheating. I am sure that there’s a rule like this in the book. The Book is a manga called [The grand adventures of Dai]”

“Then I change position with Too-kun. Rotating the chess board~~”

“Uwaah, what are you doing, Shii. Aaah, the pieces all fell”

“It’s okay its okay. You just have to put it back out once it falls~~. Just like life”

“Don’t think everything will sound deep if you reference it to life. Oh well. Let’s make a simple fix”

A game between players that have no proper knowledge of the rules, looks boring and messed by a viewer’s perspective but, both of them were having quite fun.

The board is slowly filled with chaos by the hands of 2 novices, and finally they pilled the chess pieces high up and started playing a game similar to Shogi Jenga.

“Now that I think about it, Shii”

While moving the chess pieces without making any noise, Tooi said that.

“I heard this from Alua-chan today but, there is a Deity knight other than me. Something about a former captain of the Empire’s military”

“Hnnn? What, is Too-kun worried about that?”

“A bit”

“Too-kun really is greedy~~. Or calling you flirtatious is more proper here? Even though you have us, you still want more Deities?”

“Not that. I am just wondering about the Deity that person made a contract with. Shii, do you know that Deity?”

“Un~~. Well, I met her several times before I guess~~.

“Fuun. I see”

Tooi nodded and fell into thought.

The Deity of [Celestial poles] – Ilum Elta Sirius.

He heard a little bit of that Deity and the contractor Sachs Hayern from Laila when they were in the horse carriage----

“It means that there are people that do not fight for their desires and ambition with their lives like you and me”

Why did that Hayern quit being a captain? In response to Tooi’s simple question, Laila looked at the passing buildings outside the carriage and answered him uninterested.

“The former captain Hayern took a huge jump in success ever since he made a contract with a Deity but, he apparently thought this half-way through his success. [It’s stupid to work in the military since I have this power]”

“……………….”

“After that, Hayern ignored the voices from his surroundings and immediately quit the military. With the condition that he would stand on the front lines during important matters, he ripped off money and land from the Empire and is having a whimsical leisure vacation around the south border”

“…………Can they even overlook such a crazy story?”

“The power of the Deities is the reason why this crazy story is overlooked”

Laila spat those words out.

“To him, rather than gaining social status or authority, living a life of self-indulgence every day is more important to him”

Tooi was dumbfounded.

(…….It’s kind of like the feeling of winning 3 billion yen from lottery so it’s okay to quit the company I worked in, like that?)

It’s not like Tooi could not understand this story since he has no interest in authority too.

If he can gain money without working, then there’s no need to work. If he has no fixation with social status and his social appearance then, he can devote his life for his hobbies.

(I can understand him----but)

But, he just can’t accept this once he thinks about the money provided to him is the money contrive by the Military organization which is formed by the public’s tax money.

“………..Hey wait a second Laila. If he promised to move when there is an important matters, then what about the problem Ryura caused the other day? Isn’t that called an important matter”

“We called for him many times. But, he refused with many excuses”

“……….He had no intentions to fight right?”

“That might be the case. But, we can’t do anything. If he go on a rampage in worst case scenario and revolt to other countries then it would be a problem. Things will be fine if we can keep him satisfied with a little money. It’s a fortune that we can make a clear decision that, Sachs Hayern is a boring man with no ambition and aspiration”

In contrary to her words, Laila was disgusted.

Laila has a grand goal to reach the top of the Military and is wholeheartedly striving towards that goal without being picky about her methods, from that Laila’s perspective, she has a viewpoint that completely rejects Sachs Hayern’s lifestyle because he desire the stability of his life through authority.

“Former captain Hayern’s thoughts……..Well, it’s not like don’t understand him”

Tooi said that while looking at La Shii and quietly moving the chess piece.

“What I don’t understand is about Ilum Elta Sirius. Why would that deity make a contract with a talentless and goalless man like him…….”

“Who knows~~. It’s useless to try to think about I-tan’s actions. She’s quite a weird one after all. I don’t know what she thinks about at all~~”

“……..Look who’s talking”

“Ahaha~~. That’s true~~”

Shii laughed.

“Well, since I don’t know what I-tan thinks about, I think it will be useless no matter how much Too-kun thinks about --- so, Too-kun should only think about the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] without trying to cheat on us okay?”

La Shii slightly opened her sleepy eyes.

“It’s about time they settled information about Ze-tan right?”

“……….As usual, that’s one heck of a devil’s ear you have. Aah, that’s right. Laila is called to the Central HQ because of that matter. They are deciding the future policies in today’s conference”

“How annoying~~. Ze-tan is making a big commotion so her whereabouts is already known right~~? Then why not just head there alone, convince/fight her? Too-kun already made a contract with Ryu-ran so, you have no reason to borrow the Empire’s power anymore right~~?”

It’s true that he knows where Zesca is.

There was no need to look for her, she’s a well-known existence since she opened a company under her name and is boldly conducting a business.

If he uses Ryura’s power, it’s possible to fly straight to Zesca’s current living spot – the HQ of Aldebaran company.

But----

“I can’t do something that thoughtless”

Tooi said that”

“The [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] will remain a monster if I do that”

Right now in the Renous continent, the name Tooi Cross holds the 2 meanings of hero and criminal.

That’s because many of the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] he let go is causing trouble in the continent.

Because of that, there are many damages caused by the Deities so, the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] are also treated as criminals by many humans just like how they treat Tooi.

No - it’s much simpler to think them as this since they are not human.

And that’s, Monsters.

“…….Ahaha~~”

La Shii was a little silent but, she immediately let out her usual slow smile.

“What are you saying, Too-kun. We are, monsters. We live how we want and the humans that see that would worship us as [God~~] when it’s convenient to them, and once it becomes inconvenient they will start fearing us as [Monster~~]. That’s it~~”

“Aah, I know. But—I hate that”

If---

If Tooi cleared all the unstandardized problems the Deities are causing around the continent by borrowing the powers of the Deities he made contracts with, then what will the world think?

Tooi’s name might spread out as a hero again. The 2nd generation Tooi might be set up as a new hero.

But, the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]’s name will still be covered in dirt.

As the [Monsters that would have done who knows what, if not for Tooi Cross] they would probably be exposed to the world as the target of fear and target.

They might be treated as monsters like now or even worse.

That’s why-----

“I want to make you all obey me by using positive means as much as possible.

“…….So that’s possible if you have Laila’s help?”

“Yeah. If Laila stands at the top of the military then the military’s thoughts will change too. Once the Military’s thoughts change, the nobles and citizens will slowly change their thoughts too”

“………..”

“Well, it’s [As much as possible] of course. I will refuse if the order is too improper and I would probably be their enemy if I don’t like it. Well, it’s not like everyone is our ally but, there are people like Laila and Alua-chan in the military that would understand----“

“----That’s your ego, Too-kun”

La Shii said that.

She made a cruel smirk as if she was scorning him.

She opened her eyes with a glare and emitted a special pressure.

“We don’t feel anything about being treated as monsters by humans. We don’t want humans to like us nor do we want to blend into human society. We are not going to stay quiet if you do something like that for your own self-satisfactions you know?”

“I know. All of this is my ego – but, I’ll have this ego pass”

Tooi did not back off from her overwhelming gaze and bravely replied back.

“I just know. There are no one the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] comfortable being treated like a monster. There might be some that hates humans but, there is no one that is happy about being hated by humans”

“…..You sound as if you know what you say”

“Let me say at least this”

Tooi said this.

“I am the man that will make you obey me once more”

After Tooi Cross left, La Shii did not move from her spot for a while.

Her eyes were closed but she wasn’t sleeping.

She was carefully pondering.

About the opponent that she faced just now with the board in between them.

About the master who she used to obey.

“……I knew it, Too-kun sure is interesting~~”

La Shii slightly opened her eyes and mumbled to herself.

“He is just so weird~~. After all, he is thinking of trying to protect us for a mere human ~~”

He’s trying to protect the inhuman Deities who are possessors of tremendous powers.

It just like helping a shy little girl who is not fitting inside the circle.

On contrary to the many of people who are desperately extending their hands for the existence known as the Deities, to use their powers for their own goals ---- he was extending his hands to the Deities.

“Is he a big shot, or a simply an idiot, or maybe………greedy to the point it’s helpless. No matter what it is, this is interesting~~. I just can’t get bored watching him – You think so to right?”

Mi-tan?

La Shii said that.

With her eyes sleepy, without being bewildered even for an instant, she naturally said that name.

The word [Tan] is La Shii’s way of respect. She would only call inhuman beings equal to her – the Deities [Tan] to show her respect to them.

“----I see that you noticed me. La Shii Fomalhaut”

A voice.

A quiet and magical voice echoed from everywhere.

Immediately, the outline of a female slowly appeared from a supposedly empty space.

It’s a petite girl in a dense colored robe.

She has arranged facial features that looked like a delicately made doll but, since both her eyes were covered with a wide eye patch, it’s impossible to see her eyes.

With that outfit and both her eyes closed, she gives off a mysterious impression to people who see her. It’s a young woman that has an otherworldly appearance that does not seem real.

She stood at where Tooi was at just now and was looking down at La Shii.

Though with that said, since both her eyes were covered by the eye patch, [Looking down] might not be the right expression here.

“Of course I noticed~~. Who do you think I am? Long time no see~~ Mi-tan”

The deity that appeared in front of La Shii was one of the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] that used to obey the same man.

The Deity of [All-knowing] – Minami Acrux

It’s the Deity that rules wisdom and the future and is told to be able to predict everything in this world.

“Or what, should I call you the 1st pope of the holy land of Sazaria?”

“Apparently, the news about Tooi coming back was true”

Minami did not answer La Shii’s question and plainly continued on.

“I came over after I heard a rumor that there’s a successor to his power but………as expected, it was Tooi in person”

“Information reaches you fast~~. Aah, iyaa……….should I be praising Laila-chi’s information scattering ability? Apparently, spreading a rumor like this was one of their plans to have our contracts reestablish”

“Reestablish our contract…..Fuun. How stupid”

Her tranquil yet strict voice was slightly filled with anger.

“Just when I thought he appeared after 10 years……………to think he was thinking about something like that. So the powers of us Deities, was that dear to him”

“Hnn~~, that’s a part of the reason but, that isn’t all. The reason why Too-kun wants us is not to [Use] us, it’s to [Protect] us It seems”

“Regardless which one, it’s annoyance to me. The reason why I lend my hand to Tooi 10 years ago was because I [Saw] a future with that young man defeated Hadar. Now that the existence disrupting the world’s peace is gone, there’s no reason for me to accompany his self-satisfactions”

“That’s true~~. Everything is Too-kun’s self-satisfactions. But, fully aware that everything is just self-satisfaction and working boldly serious to fulfill that self-satisfaction, that’s just Tooi”

“You look like you are enjoying this, La Shii”

Minami said that. In response, La Shii smiled.

“I am having fun~~. I am having really fun now that Too-kun came back”

An endless innocent curiosity was shown in her half-opened eyes.

Like a pure child chasing after a butterfly for fun, or, a pure child that pulled the wings of a butterfly for fun.

“Is Mi-tan happy that Too-kun came back?”

“I am happy --- obviously not”

Minami arrogantly said that. Her voice was as cold as ice.

“Like I said just now, it’s an annoyance”

“Oh how anti-social~~. Speaking of Mi-tan, you’re the creator of the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]”

“………………….”

Without replying back, Minami faced her back to La Shii.

“In these 10 years, the foundation of my ideal country is about to be completed. I won’t stand quiet if he does something unnecessary”

“After all, the current Mi-tan is the highest leader of the state although it’s a small country~~. You’ve been working hard for these past 10 years too…….well, I sympathize with your motives”

“La Shii. If you meet Tooi again – Tell him, that the holy land of Sazaria is my dream country I created. If you plan on destroying my [Worldcountry], then I will be ruthless”

“If I remember~~”

Minami’s figure slowly disappeared deep away from the prison. The same time the sounds of the stone floor tapping disappeared, her figure was completely gone.

“Hnaa~~”

Having left alone, La Shii let out a loud yawn.

“I think I talked too much today so I am tired now~~. I think I talked for at least 1 month so, I guess I’ll sleep for 1 month”

With crawling movements, she wrapped herself in her favorite blanket and rolled on the bed. A comfortable sleeping sound started to appear after a few seconds.

This world is definitely moving thanks to the return of Tooi Cross.

Is it to settle the chaos.

Or --- Is it to destroy the stability.

What is the Deity of [Time & Space] La Shii Fomalhaut, thinking about the situation with Tooi and the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses], or maybe she’s not thinking of anything.

The only thing that’s certain is that her sleeping face is extremely cute.

Part 3

Right when Tooi came back to the Schut house, the scene he saw was Laila face flat onto her office table which is suitable with the 4 letter word *Slump*.

“………Hey, Alua-chan? What’s going on here?”

“Onee-chan has been like this ever since she got back……..someone she disliked attended today’s conference and that’s the reason why she got tired. Apparently, she got involved with that person one way or another during the conference.”

“Fuuun? There’s someone Laila dislike? There are a lot of people that’s apparently disliking Laila though…….Ouch”

A pen thrown over from the office table hit his head. Even though she is tired, it’s so like Laila to not miss insults towards her.

Alua continued explaining to Tooi who was patting his head.

“Does Tooi Onii-chan know of Astarot Cougar-san?”

“I heard of his name only. He’s the only tactician of the Empire if I am correct”

That’s the name he heard several times when he walked in the city.

It’s a name he does not know when he was summoned to another world last time but – after 10 years, he became so famous that there’s no one in the imperial capital that does not know of his name.

“Laila. Do you dislike him?”

Laila slightly nodded when he asked her.

“Why do you dislike him?”

“…….because he’s annoying”

Laila quietly insulted him before closing her mouth. Looks like her mental state was driven to the corner. Just what kind of man is Astarot Cougar to weaken Laila who has an extremely thick skin and is mentally brash, to this extent.

“Alua-chan, is he really that annoying?”

“Who knows………I don’t often talk to him. Judging by his achievements, he is an excellent person though. His efforts are shown in several other fields other than being a Tactician. For example……….oh yeah, the motorbike was developed under Cougar-san’s idea”

The motorbike is a vehicle newly developed in the Imperial capital a few years ago.

The shape is extremely similar to the motorbike in Tooi’s previous world. But since the fuel is Spirit energy and not gasoline, only people who are skilled in Spirit tech can use it and what’s more since it’s expensive, it’s still not spread out to the public.

“What’s next……..his activities as a writer are magnificent. He brought out many best sellers”

“Hee, it’s an amazing guy then”

“He also wrote many novels with Tooi Onii-chan as the main character. Rather, Cougar-san was the first person who started writing about Tooi Onii-chan and the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] bringing it to the spotlight. So basically, he’s the instigator of the Tooi Cross fad in recent years”

It seems that the existence of [Tyrant Slayer] who defeated the Demon king was a hot topic for all the literature lovers and many creations with Tooi as the theme was published within these 10 years.

Apparently, Astarot Cougar was the pioneer of that fad.

(………….Should I feel happy or embarrassed or disappointed)

Tooi felt complex.

Since the novel with him as the main character was written interesting to the point it became a best seller, well he feels blessed to be the inspiration for it but------Don’t make me the model by your own accord, rather give me a little bit of the money; he felt that.

Negative and positive about the talented man, was mixing inside Tooi but,

“His latest creation is an original series with setting of Tooi Cross as a female----“

“So that’s the bastard who wrote the female version of me!?”

The moment the impactful truth was confirmed, his heart was immediately colored in hostility.

“I understand Tooi Onii-chan’s feelings. At first even I felt, what’s with this disgusting setting? But when I tried reading it, it was unexpectedly interesting----“

“I am the person in concern so I feel even sicker! Forget that, Alua-chan………are you reading it?”

“I am a big fan of Cougar-san after all. I’ve read all of his works”

*Mufuun* Alua puffed her chest proudly.

Now that she mentioned it, she’s a [Tooi Cross] maniac. She’s really knowledgeable about pictures and literature related to Tooi.

“There are many novels with Tooi Onii-chan as the main character but………..within them, I like Cougar-sensei’s works the best. How should I put this, it feels like he understand Tooi Onii-chan the best”

“……….a guy that turned me into a girl?”

“N-no, it’s not something surface like that, it’s more like, how he written Tooi Onii-chan’s deep view point and views of life, was very good and-----“

“---Don’t read that guy’s book”

An extremely unhappy voice.

Laila finally raised her body from the desk and glared at Alua.

“Books written by a disgusting man like that are obviously rubbish”

“Mu……….don’t say that, Onee-chan. A writer’s personality is not related to how interesting the product becomes”

Alua defended her favorite author but, she has no intentions to defend the writer’s personality.

“So, how’s today’s conference, Laila? Did we get permission to raid Aldebaran company?”

After Tooi asked her, the revived Laila silently nodded.

“We finally settled it. Tooi, Alua. I’ll have you two leave for Istar tomorrow or as soon as possible”

Istar is the name of a village located at the northern side of the Empire.

It’s the village closest to Aldebaran’s company HQ.

“It became clear that the weapons from [Wings of crimson light] were supplied from that company. The higher ups finally decided to lift their ass”

The military fundamentally don’t intervene with businesses with the civilians. Of course, regardless of how many collusions and consultations are done, they require a great cause to publically intervene.

Even if it’s a weapon shop created by an inhuman Deity, if there are customers paying and the business is done legally then------Tooi, who’s affiliated to the Empire’s military by name, can’t do anything to interfere.

The situation is different if the company is assisting the rebellion which is threatening the country.

“The reason why we got permission…….is it perhaps the commotion that occurred during the morning?”

“Good guess. That’s right. It’s thanks to a certain someone doing a good job catching the people from the [Wings of crimson light] that escaped the guards”

“Heeeh. I guess we have to thank that certain someone huh”

“………Eh? Eh? Eh? Wha-what does that mean?”

Tooi made a simple explanation because a question was brought out beside him.

“Alua-chan. How did the people escape the guards this morning?”

“That’s………I heard that they pulled out their assassination tool hidden in their stomach and use it as a medium to activate their [Ray Alma] when the guards were not paying attention and scattered into the city………..”

“Yes, that’s correct. Changing questions --- Can Alua-chan activate the [Ray Alma] with an assassination tool?”

“…..Ah”

Alua finally noticed.

A weapon is definitely needed to be used as a medium to activate the [Ray Alma].

Choosing the medium requires many important factors such as the Spirit’s compatibility and the practitioner’s skills.

The weapon’s material and killing factors are of course important but, factors other than the practicality like the designs such as the shape and ornaments are important too.

It’s preferred if the weapon is more solemn, splendor, and elegant.

If the weapon possesses both efficiency and appearance, it will be able to bring out the Spirit’s maximum power and it’s possible to materialize a stronger [Ray Alma].

However on the other hand, weapons focused on the design – for example assassination tools focused mainly on concealment; many Spirits do not like them and it’s not suited for the [Ray Alma].

“I just thought they were quite skilled but……”

“That possibility is there but, judging by the [Wind] that touched them, they were not a big deal. Which means, there is only one possibility. The medium they used – even though it’s a lame looking assassination tool, it’s still a weapon that still has [Class]”

It’s an impossible territory to reach no matter how much the human tries to reach.

But, if it’s Zesca who is crowned with the name [Weapon Empress], it’s possible for her to create weapons that transcend human knowledge.

“The captured people have not spilled the beans but…….it’s a matter of time now. If that’s the case, it’s better if you all move as fast as possible. A weapon shop that does not choose it’s customers, is no different to a criminal organization to the country”

Laila said it as if to give up.

Tooi raised his face and looked over to the Arludea Empire’s map decorated in the room.

“Istar huh………..It’s probably easy to live there in this season”

“Tooi Onii-chan, you went to Istar before?”

“Uun. But, I traveled over there many times around that northern section. Ah, oh yeah. Since we are going to the north, I guess I’ll show up in the Ifnatus”

Tooi thought that and said it.

Ifnatus.

They are skilled with fighting together with fire Spirits to confront evil Spirits ever since the age of old and would take on occupations such as mercenaries. They are a genuine war tribe filled almost with warriors with excellent battle strength.

The warriors of Ifnatus would fight with special secret spells that only their tribes can use. They would not bring any weapons into the battlefield and would obliterate their enemies with unique techniques; the name Ifnatus is even well known to other countries because of that.

Fighting with heavily guarded secret spells, their battle skills were so powerful that they were authorized to govern themselves even though the village is within Arludea Empire.

The warriors of Ifnatus gave many results even during the Demon king suppression 10 years ago.

“I only went there 2 or 3 times but, I am quite fond of that village. It’s filled with big-hearted and kind people there”

When Tooi went to Ifnatus village, he was given a warm welcome by the prideful warriors there as the Deity knight fighting the Demon king.

He experienced many joint battles with the village warriors when fighting the Demon king’s army.

Even within them – there was one man that has specially remained in his memories.

The Strongest Warrior, who is given the title [Hero] by the chiefs of Ifnatus------

“It’s been 10 years. The children that I used to play with probably grown to my age……Eh?”

After talking about his past memories, Tooi immediately noticed a weird change.

Before he knew it, the room was filled with an indescribable nervousness. Laila was looking down in sorrow and Alua was biting her lips while her shoulders were slightly trembling.

“E-ermm………wha-what happened to you two…..?”

Even though he asked, the heavy silence continued for a while longer.

Soon – Laila opened her mouth.

“Ifnatus was destroyed”

It was a very cold tone.

He can’t feel any warmth from it. It was too plain that, it sounds like a word citation rather than calling it a sentence.

“Eh………What do you mean by destroyed…………”

“3 years ago, the village of Ifnatus officially disappeared. It’s not like there were no survivors but, most of them are dead”

“……..What in the world”

“Internal conflict”

“Internal, conflict……”

“The Empire’s and Ifnatus’s opinions split regarding the rewards from the war with the Demon king 10 years ago. The discussions slowly turned into chaos; both sides were completely antagonizing each other when a group of Ifnatus extremist started terrorizing a government facility. Our goals was to suppress them at first but, it was hard continuing to fight strong Ifnatus warriors, also, since Arludea had no spare strength to continue an unpredictable attritional war – 3 years ago, the Empire Military used its full power, plotted to purge Ifnatus, and annihilated the village”

Laila said it emotionless like she’s reading from a text book.

(……….There’s no longer, a, Ifnatus……..?)

It’s a truth that’s very hard to swallow.

There was a 10 year void that Tooi was not in this world – that is enough time for an internal conflict to occur and end.

“………You’ve got to be kidding, Laila. Something like Ifnatus is destroyed, is that even possible? That village has the strength of a small country you know?”

Ifnatus can be compared to a small scale autonomous region but, it holds many strong warriors.

In the first place, it’s because that using force and the military was too risky that Ifnatus was granted the rights to govern themselves in the Empire.

That’s why; Tooi could not believe the reason why the Empire decided to annihilate them, and the fact that it was actually annihilated.

More importantly----

“…….[Hero]. Yeah, the [Hero]. He should be in Ifnatus right? There’s no way he would quietly let it get annihilated if he’s there”

The memory that resurfaced in his mind was a young man who ran together with him in a battle-filled world 1 year ago.

With the title [Hero] bestowed to him, that Ifnatus warrior is a powerful warrior in a higher class compared to even the warriors of Ifnatus; his strength could even compare to Tooi who commanded the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses].

He’s a prideful warrior loved by everyone in Ifnatus.

To Tooi, the young man who had his back several times, who ran together with him in the battlefield which was side by side with death, was the only existence in this world that he would call [War comrade].

“Him – What was Gilfrain doing!?”

Laila closed her eyes as if to bear with Tooi’s angry shout.

“………..Gilfrain Dulk Lana Merjedra Ifnis”

Laila then slowly opened her eyes.

A cold glint was in her eyes as expected.

“Gilfrain betrayed Ifnatus”

Part 4

Around the Lepia lake south of Arludea Empire.

That area has a warm climate throughout the year and is famous resort area. Lines of resort houses by nobles were built at the lake shore and there’s an entertainment street developed nearby.

A little further away from the best line up of giant luxurious houses, there’s an isolated house.

It’s the house of the former captain of the Empire – Sachs Hayern.

Turning 30 this year, he is a [Government servant] by name but is actually [Unemployed], and is living only by the money provided periodically by the Empire. That lifestyle was not like its luxurious nor was it modest; it’s probably the same standard of living as the citizens living in the Imperial capital.

If there are days where he would sleep the whole day, there would be days where he would spend his time on movies or reading. If there are times he went fishing or hunting, then there are days where he would continuously head to the entertainment street at night.

His lifestyle was not as prosper as a grand noble but it was not to the point where he is poor like commoner.

Sachs enjoyed indulging in that lifestyle.

While being a Deity knight which is historically rare, he was not giving his best for the country, he did not need to cause a revolution in the world and was spending his days idly. In a sense, this is a loss in human resource and might actually be a waste but, he realized that being driven by that sense of duty is the root of all evil in recent years.

Originally a normal solder, he suddenly reached the title of Captain immediately since he was chosen by a Deity.

Proportionate to the status and authority, his responsibilities, restraints and more importantly work load increased.

Sachs felt that this boring lifestyle was stupid and chose his current leisure and carefree life. If he threw away his sense of justice and greed for prestige, this life was the best and he did not need to be troubled by money or time.

Tentatively, he gained periodically income by adding a condition of [I will work anytime the Empire demands me to] but, he can play if off by tricking them with frivolous objections. If someday, his income was cut off, then all he has to do is to leave to another country. Any country would welcome him since he is a Deity knight.

He does not need to aim high, he was not being chased by time, and he is living his days in a slightly extravagant way.

That’s the shape of happiness that the man Sachs Hayern thought up – and currently, he is living in the best happiness that he desired.

And tonight-----

Sachs Hayern died in his house’s bedroom.

His corpse tumbled on the floor of the spacious bedroom.

No – It’s more like charcoal instead of calling it a corpse.

Of course for his hairs and clothes, his flesh and bones were even scorched up. There were no traces of how he looked when he was alive. Most of his body was melted down and a part was turned into ash barely maintaining its shape.

His death was in an instant.

He did not even feel that he was [Dead]. He was scorched to death without any torture while he was imagining the events that he would have with the prostitute that is set to come to his house.

Just how high must the temperature be to cause this kind of phenomenon?

“ --- Fumu. The human species is unexpectedly fragile”

That dull and uninteresting voice was not particularly interested or filled with emotions.

The person standing at the corner of the bed room, mumbled without any care while moving towards the window side. During that, Sachs Hayern who turned into charcoal was brutally stepped on but, the person was not particularly bothered by it.

A white slender arm opened the window. The night wind blowing from outside, scattered the charcoal powder which was caused because it got stepped on.

The person in the room was exposed pale moon light.

It had long black hair flowing down the back, and a red outfit was covering its whole body.

It has the facial features of a neuter beauty, it does not look like a young man but it does not look like a young woman either. There were no emotions on her expression and it had a somewhat doll-like atmosphere.

The Deity of [Celestial Pole] – Ilum Elta Sirius.

Right now, after scorching its master whom it made a contract with to death, the Deity stared at the moon with an unbelievable calm attitude.

“This man was a failure. I did not think that he would be this boring. Since I went through all that trouble to make a contract with you, you should have played something more fun”

Ilum said that in a bored manner.

“So picking someone randomly is a failure. I thought all humans are the same but, unexpectedly, each individual have their own respective personalities. Now then, I hope the next one would be a more amusing one”

While mumbling to itself plainly, Ilum took a step out the window.

“Wait for me – Tooi Cross”

After announcing it towards the moon, the Deity melted into the night and disappeared.

The gentle breeze blows into the room and left a trail of ashes.

Counting Tooi Cross who is a standard exception – Sach Hayern was the only Deity knight in the current Empire.

The curtains of his blissful life suddenly were closed tonight.

It was too fast and was a really sad last act.

However, based on the people’s perspective, he - Sach Hayern who turned into ash believing his [Happiness], died without feeling fear or pain and he did not even need to prepare for his death; in a sense, he might be the happiest man.

Chapter 2: The Nomadic Deity

Part 1

5 days passed after they left the imperial capital.

The group consisting of Tooi, Alua and Ryura, moved towards the north with an attachment equipped motorbike and was staying at a small town half-way on that day.

After moving their belongings into the inn, Alua borrowed a communicator in the inn since she has to periodically make a contact.

A Spirit communicator is a Spirit machine that borrows the powers of primitive Spirits that are settling inside.

Since this is a different type of a Spirit machine compared to the motorbike which needs to gather Ether from the outside, even people who are not skilled with Spirit techs can easily contact others.

Nonetheless, it’s still an expensive high-class item.

Even though the Spirit communicator that every house in the high-class residential city of the Imperial capital possesses one as if it was natural, apparently it only exists in the most luxurious inn in the nearby town.

She showed her rank insignia to the inn owner and gained the permission to use the communicator through the authority of the country’s military officer before, Alua contacted Laila but – what she heard was unbelievable news.

“D-dead!? Former captain Hayern is!?”

Alua almost unintentionally dropped the handset.

“I got a report from the southern HQ a few days ago. There were having troubles in the investigations since the scorched body did not maintain its shape but………judging by from various circumstantial evidence, they apparently pinned down that it’s Sach Hayern’s corpse”

“……..Wh-why? Former captain Hayern is a Deity knight right?”

“The cause is being investigated. I will inform you all once that is found out”

“…………”

Alua was dumbfounded for a while even after the call ended.

(O-oh yeah. I have to tell Tooi Onii-chan as soon as possible!)

She immediately lifted her face and immediately left the inn.

After looking around, she immediately found Tooi.

He was at a wide open space behind the Inn. Alua ran over and was about to call out to him but,

“………..”

She gasped in reflex when she saw Tooi’s expression.

The inn they are living in was built at a slightly elevated area so, he is able to see everything around him from the back garden. Tooi’s eyes when he was looking at the scenery were really lonely.

A fleeting and yet somewhat cold feeling squeezed Alua’s chest.

“……..Things around here changed too”

Tooi probably noticed Alua’a presence so he opened his mouth. He did not look over to her and fluently let out his words while looking far away.

“10 years ago……….i think that this town was more bustling. There were many people, and the residence here were very lively. There were fields and agricultural land outside the villages too……..”

Further up his fleeting gaze – were the eye-catching empty and damaged houses at the outskirts of the town and a completely neglected agricultural land.

Alua looked down and bit her lips.

This area was originally an area where the northern nobles lived in and this small town makes a living out of sheep farming and crops like wheat; it’s a town that can be found anywhere.

However, the internal conflict of the Ifnatus a few years ago changed the situation of this town.

This area was completely influenced by internal conflict. As a result of being exposed the fires of war and terrorist’s activity, several towns and agricultural lands were burned off.

The internal conflict settled down 3 years ago but, the noble that was the owner quickly let go of the rampaged land with [It’s useless]. Currently, it’s being managed by the country as a state-owned land but, the restorations were lagging and were not advancing.

“……….Tooi Onii-chan. Were you shocked about the Ifnatus as expected?”

“Un. Well, yeah”

After nodding ambiguously, Tooi looked away from the lonely scenery to look over to Alua.

“An internal conflict caused by Ifnatus, the country heading to destroy it, and resulted in the annihilation of Ifnatus………..all of it were impactful. Now that I look at the scars of the war, I feel complex as expected. What about you Alua-chan?”

“……….It’s the same for me too”

Of course, since Alua was still a student going to the military academy, she did not participate in the internal conflict.

But – The information of the internal conflict that has turned into a serious case entered her ears even whether or not she likes it. The disaster of residence of the same Arludea Empire killing each other, caused a deep wound in Alua’s heart too even though she was a part of it.

“I wanted to hear more of the details from Laila but………I can’t ask her after she made that face”

After being told with that bitter smile, the expression of Laila who talked about the internal conflict resurfaced in Alua’s mind.

The face of her sister when she was desperately surprising her overflowing emotions and put of a complete emotionless face------

(Onee-chan…….)

Laila Schut – Was present in the Ifnatus internal conflict.

Really really deeply.

At that time, Laila was affiliated with the northern HQ. Her rank was captain. She obeyed the orders from the higher ups and headed for the Ifnatus subjugation as one of the site commanders”

Once the internal conflict reached to a terrible point, Laila tried to the very end in objecting the change in order of [Subjugating] to [Annihilation] from the Higher-ups but – she eventually obeyed the order.

As long as she is a member of a military organization, orders from the higher-ups are absolute. Defying will definitely lead to a strict punishment. She would lose her authority of on-site commander and would definitely be forced to leave the battlefield.

That’s why Laila obeyed her orders to stay there.

Because she knew that looking away from the order is only evading the problem.

Because she knew that only by obeying her orders that there are lives that can be protected.

After that, her efforts were splendid, within the battlefield which had changed into an annihilation war, she was the most cool-headed commander there and carried out her responsibilities as a military official----

“-----Thanks to that achievement, Laila was promoted to Major general from captain. She then was promoted to central service from north service. She turned into a general in an unprecedented age and as a female; and managed to become companions with the Empire’s military higher ups……….And she lived happily ever after”

“Tooi Onii-chan………..Onee-chan was-----“

“I know. Laila is not at fault. Rather--- She picked the best choice. If the internal conflicts keep dragging on, the death toll will increase from both Ifnatus and the Empire’s military. Bringing down Ifnatus as fast as possible was the best way to reduce the number of sacrifices. Laila decided to be more excellent than others, more heroic than others…………I know that much”

“……Yes. Onee-chan worked really hard in desperation. If Onee-chan wasn’t there, it was said that the internal conflict would drag on for 1 more year”

Laila Schut continued fighting herself in the battlefield.

She was unable to run away or throw this away; through calm and logical reasoning, she continued her death battle in order to save more people as much as possible regardless if it’s allies or enemies.

“But – the remaining survivors of Ifnatus that Laila desperately tried to protect is now the rebellion, this is just ironic”

After hearing those sad words, Alua looked down and clenched her fists.

It was clear that one of the anti-government organizations that have been active lately – the [Wings of crimson light] was established with the survivors of Ifnatus as the center.

“………Why did it turn out this way. It wouldn’t have been weird if all of the tribe members of Ifnatus were executed right after the Internal conflict ended………..Onee-chan worked hard desperately to stop that too………”

Alua knows better than anyone else that Laila has done a lot for them.

She even knows how regretful and painful it was for her.

Thanks to Laila lending her hand to each factor, the people from Ifnatus escaped execution, and the survivors were moved to live at a personal residential area in the country.

And a part of the people Laila saved – is now baring their fangs to the Empire as the rebellion.

It was an ironic and irredeemable story.

“Abuelagrandma said this [Peace in the heart is needed to accept good intentions as good intentions]”

Tooi said this.

“The kindness of the Empire and Laila’s gentleness won’t reach the hearts of Ifnatus. No matter how much the Empire’s military do, to them, it doesn’t change the fact that they are the hated enemy that destroyed their hometown”

“Yes……that’s true”

“Perhaps”

After looking far away, Tooi silently said it.

“Perhaps, if the [Hero] was there, the Empire’s military wouldn’t have made the order [Annihilation] since it does not pay”

That monologue, had quite a strong conviction for a sentence that had the introduction of [Perhaps]. She really understands that, this person is viewed quite highly by Tooi.

[Hero].

That’s Ifnatus strongest warrior – the title given to Gilfrain Dulk Lana Merjedra Ifnis

At the start of the internal conflict, he fought the Empire’s military as a warrior of Ifnatus.

However, right when the internal conflict gotten worse – he suddenly disappeared.

No one knew the reason. Of course for the Empire’s military, even the people of Ifnatus who was his allies were shocked about his disappearance.

The betrayer [Hero].

The irregular situation that no one predicted – cause a change in the internal conflict’s strength scale.

Just like what Tooi said, the disappearance of the [Hero] played a big role for the Empire’s military to step into an annihilation war.

“Is Gilfrain-san…….really such an amazing person?”

“Yeah. He’s an amazing one. If I didn’t come to this world – he might have been the one who would have defeated the [Demon King]”

Alua opened her eyes wide and was taken back when she heard those words easily came out from him.

“Eh……eeeeehhh!? That much!? Really, that much!? B-because, the [Demon King] is an enemy that Tooi Onii-chan could finally defeat after having the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] obey you right!?”

“Hnn………..I think he could defeat him. No, it might be impossible………”

“…………M-make up your mind?”

“At that time, Gilf was still around 12 years old………how should I say this, this guy knows no limit. It’s not like his growth was still incomplete and he would get stronger each time he fights. As for his personality, he’s like a war maniac that would charge into his death on his own violation. His growth speed was abnormal”

“War maniac………what a harsh name”

“Apparently, that is a praise, for the battle tribe Ifnatus”

Tooi slightly narrowed his eyes and smiled nostalgically.

“To the people of Ifnatus, war is a ceremony that connects them to the world. They think fighting as something holy and respect warriors that throw themselves into the battlefield. Fighting like its breathing is the highest and only honor. Gilfrain………….was a child that is the embodiment of Ifnatus’s teachings and pride because he was the most devoted to it than the others”

After finishing his sentence, Tooi closed his eyes. He thinks nostalgically about the killed people and his war comrades that went missing; it’s as if he was offered a silent prayer.

He then slowly opened his eyes,

“Now that I think back, Alua-chan. Did you finish reporting to Laila?”

He said that.

“……….Eh? A-aahhh! Oh yeah, I remember now! I came here to tell you! It’s big trouble Tooi Onii-chan! Actually-----“

Having finally remembered the main topic, Alia explained the information she heard from Laila.

The death of Sachs Hayern.

Tooi’s response after knowing this sensational matter,

“Fuuun”

Was really light.

“Fuuun………is that all?”

“No, well I am surprised but……honestly, [Fuun] was the only thing i thought”

“This means that there is a strong murderer in the Empire that is so strong that, former Captain Hayern – a deity knight got defeated you know!?”

“It’s still not clear that he was killed right? Err, was the possibility of suicide low again?”

“Y-yes. Apparently, former captain Hayern made a promise with a female before he died”

“Female?”

“Err…..well, how should I say this, he called a prostitute over to his house. That prostitute was the first person to find his burnt corpse and-----“

“Prostitute!? No way, he called a prostitute over to this house? There’s a call girl service in this country? I heard rumors that the brothels in the Imperial capital don’t do this kind of things……….”

“What the heck made you lured in!”

Alua shouted violently with her face red.

At first, Tooi would act like a gentleman in front of Alua but, ever since his carry case filled with ero magazines was found, it feels as if he became more defiant.

“Uuun………..i see. So that’s why suicide was unlikely. Rather, it’s 100% a no. Committing suicide right before calling a prostitute over is impossible for a male. If he’s going to die then he would have died after doing it once”

“That way of understanding is messed up!?”

“If it wasn’t suicide – then he might have gotten killed by the Deity he contracted with”

“……..Eh?”

*Pokan* Alua went blank. Since the switch between sex jokes to a serious talk was too fast, she could not follow him.

“Former captain Hayern was burned to death right? The Deity of [Celestial pole] – Ilum Elta Sirius is a Deity that controls blazing fire so, don’t you think that’s the most suspicious one?"

“………….I-is that possible? Something like getting killed by the contract Deity”

“It’s possible. Even making a contract with a normal Spirit, once the Spirit decides that [The Master is unworthy], it could revoke anytime it wants. It’s not like there were no past examples of users getting killed by the Spirit when that happens?”

A Spirit contract is done by the agreement of both sides.

Unlike contracts made by humans through letters, there was nothing forced.

If one side rejects then revoking anytime is possible – basically, If the user made the contract Spirit angry then it would not be weird if he would be deserted.

That is also a risk on the other hand of gaining tremendous power from the contract Spirit.

Nonetheless, since most of the Spirits make contracts with humans because it originally holds positive affections towards humans, it’s a rare example for them to perform murder at the same time the contract is revoked.

When killing occurs, it is mostly because that the human was clearly in the wrong.

If an actual example was asked – things like trying to deforest the forest hometown of the contract Spirit for personal gain, or performing ghastly training or experiments on Spirits that are the same species.

“A contract Deity is fundamentally the same with a contract Spirit. That’s why I one-sidedly revoke my contracts with the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] 10 years ago – and that’s also the reason why I was able to reestablish my contract with Ryura”

“T-then………..there is a possibility that Ryura-san might suddenly one day decide to attack Tooi Onii-chan---“

“-------I won’t do something like that”

Alua was taken back and fell on her butt after hearing that shout suddenly echoed from the sides.

“Seriously, how rude”

“Ry-Ryura-san……? Y-you were here?”

Since Ryura has an appearance that would attract anything, she concealed her body by turning into her Spirit form whenever she enters populated town or villages. Apparently, Tooi knows her position because he is the contractor but, she’s an existence that is actually bad for Alua’s heart.

“Alua. Tooi is the only master in this world that this Ryura Vega accepts. I will not point my sword to such a man”

“……But. I think you were going all out on the sword swinging about a month ago”

“That’s another story”

Alua could not say anything after hearing Ryura clearly said that. Having seen that, Tooi made a wry smile while shrugging his shoulders.

“Well, Ryura might not be like that but, there’s a Deity like Bel in the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]”

“Bel……….you mean Belfriede Canopis!”

Alua’s Tooi Cross mania blood boiled when she heard a topic about a new Deity.

The Deity of [Azure Ice] - Belfriede Canopis

“That’s because Bel originally made a contract so she could kill me. I made a contract with her with the condition that she could kill me whenever she gets the chance”

“Eh……Is Belfriede Canopis such a terrifying Deity………?”

“She’s a scary one. I serious thought I was going to die many times. And it was really a problem each time I take her on. Right Ryura?”

“Yes. It was a big problem”

Both of them laughed at each other feeling nostalgic about the past but, Alua could not laugh at the contents at all.

(………..Tooi Onii-chan really didn’t pick his methods huh)

The [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] was established 10 years ago to defeat the [Demon King]. In order to make Deities with different traits under his command, he apparently had to cross dangerous bridges.

Even though her mind was feeling complex because astonishment and admiration mixed together, Alua returned back to the main topic.

“Err………..Then as expected, does Tooi Onii-chan thinks that former captain Hayern was killed by Ilum Elta whom he made a contract with?”

“Most likely”

“……If that’s the case, then what kind of goal does Ilum Elta have? She killed the master that she acknowledged and ran somewhere-----“

“-----I didn’t plan to run away”

And.

Alua turned around by reflex when a voice suddenly came from behind.

“I just moved in search for a new master”

Standing there, was a somewhat doll-like young man or maybe a young female. It had silky black hair flowing alongside the wind and red attire. It’s facial features and body shape were neutral and beautiful but, it’s gender could not be determined.

(De-Deity…..!?)

Alua understood.

No – She was forced to understand by the odd presence it emitted.

Even though it’s not like it was using its powers, it’s had a special overwhelming pressure and appearance. She felt the same pressure when she confronted Ryura and La Shii.

(W-why did this happen so suddenly……what’s more, the words it said-----)

“I guess this is what “Speak of the devil” means huh”

As if to hide Alua who was frozen from disordered, Tooi took a step forward. As expected. There were no signs of him faltering even when he’s confronting a Deity that suddenly appeared.

The neutral face Deity stared at Tooi with emotion eyes.

“Are you the one being called 2nd generation Tooi Cross”

“Apparently I am being called that”

“I see. So the rumors were true”

“As for you, I take that you are Ilum Elta Sirius?”

“Exactly”

The neutral face Deity –Ilum silently nodded.

“Tooi Cross. I will cut right down the chase”

It was really done easily.

“Make a contract with me”

“Eh. No way”

A sudden request for a contract and Tooi immediately rejecting it.

Staring at the both of them, Alua felt like shouting loudly. Unable to keep up with the super development, she felt as if she was about to faint.

Tooi Cross came back to this world after 10 years passed.

There were many reasons why they made him the [2nd generation Tooi] but – one of them was the expectations to cause a reaction from the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] members whose whereabouts were still unknown.

However, no one could have predicted this.

That, the first thing that was lured to the information of the successor of Tooi Cross was a Deity different from the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses].

The Deity of [Celestial pole] – Ilum Elta Sirius.

That Deity naturally admitted that it killed former captain Hayern.

“He was a boring man so I killed him after revoking the contract since I was at it”

Continuing on, it started to explain about its motives for wanting to make a contract with humans in detail but-----

“………Huh?”

Tooi’s mouth opened wide. That’s because the goal said from the Deity was really hysteric.

“Re-Really? Are you seriously doing that with such a reason……….”

“I have no reason to lie. 10 years ago, the 1st generation – Aah, no you are the real Tooi Cross huh. Anyways, 10 years ago you defeated Hadar with 12 Deities under your command. I have seen your fights many times. I thought this when I saw the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] who fought alongside the human they made a contract with”

Ilum said it as if nothing’s wrong.

“That, this looks fun”

“………..So that’s why you thought of making a contract with someone huh?”

“Yes. I would randomly pick someone and would randomly make a contract. Sachs Hayern was……….err, the 3rd or 4th one. I can roughly remember the number but I can clearly remember that all of them were any good”

“…………………”

Tooi was made to stay silent. There was nothing more dumbfounding than this story. That was an unbelievable motive but, Ilum did not seem like it was lying.

Because it looked fun.

Apparently, that’s Ilum Elta Sirius only motive.

He’s completely aware that it’s a mistake to measure the Deities actions by human logic based on his experience but, there even so there was a limit.

Should this be described as rampant or short temper or thoughtless?

(………It’s as just as what Shii said)

It’s amazing to the point that it could make La Shii Fomalhaut say [I don’t know what she thinks about at all].

“Ilum Elta Sirius…….Fuun. Looks like you’re quite the slut”

Having been silent the whole time, Ryura opened her mouth as if she could not hold back her anger.

“Without knowing the person enough, and randomly making contracts without caring who it is, is just plain preposterous. Know shame”

“What are you saying. There are many things we won’t know unless we actually perform the contract. There’s something called compatibility. Nothing will happen unless we try it out”

“I am saying that those thoughts are ridiculous! Listen here? A contract is a holy act of binding both souls together. You should not make a contract to someone that your heart does not trust. Without the determination to offer your whole life to that person, and recklessly making contracts, there should be a limit to how sluttish you can get”

“I only have one life. Trying out with a lot of people is also a type of fun”

The Ryura who’s giving a heated talk and Ilum who is not backing down no matter what she’s told.

(………….This is kind of like a virgin obsessed person giving a lecture to a bimbo)

He’s aware that this was a vulgar opinion but Tooi just can’t help but to feel that.

The contracts between Spirits and humans, and also Deities with humans.

Each of them has individual thoughts regarding their contracts.

Ryura is the owner of an extremely strict sense of virtue so, she’s the type that would think [I am definitely not doing it unless it is our first time] but – as for Ilum Elta Sirius, it’s the type to have loose thoughts regarding those parts.

“---Now then, Tooi Cross. Now that we finished sharing our information, I will ask you once more”

Ignoring Ryura’s endless lecture, Ilum looked over to him.

“Make a contract with me”

It was the same line as just now. When Tooi was feeling troubled here,

“Me make – smile”

Ilum continued.

With an emotionless face like a doll.

“Make you smile……….?”

“I have not smiled ever since I was born. I just can’t understand the action called [Smiling]”

“……………”

“Tooi Cross. When I saw you fighting with the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] 10 years ago, I found that it looked fun. I thought that I might smile like them if I made a contract with a human – I want to smile even if it’s for one time. For that, I want to try making a contract with you”

Tooi lost his words when he heard that sentence said with an emotionless doll expression.

Because it looked fun.

It might sound like a random and messed up objective but, Ilum is serious about it. It is definitely not messing around and is honestly moving according to its own feelings.

Tooi reevaluated it but----

“……..Sorry but I won’t make a contract with you”

What came out from his mouth was rejection as expected.

“I have no plans to make contracts outside of the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses]”

It’s not because he was told by La Shii to [Don’t cheat].

It’s just that this was what he decided.

It’s a line he drew inside his heart or something like a prayer.

He experienced his second summoning to another world and after knowing the current world’s situation that’s encircling the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses], this was a personal vow he established for himself.

The vow is that he won’t make any new contracts other than the 12 Deities that once obeyed him, no matter if it’s Spirits or Deities.

“I see. Then I have no choice”

Ilum backed down easily in a very anti-climactic manner. Having rejected it with an indifferent attitude, when Tooi was the one surprised instead – Ilum looked over to Alua who was hiding behind him.

“Hey, the girl with the hat”

Ever since Ilum appeared, Alua who was completely shrunk down and maintained a silence as if she was waiting for the storm the pass, twitched her shoulders when she was suddenly brought into a conversation.

“Eh………..Y-yes. What is the matter……?”

“Will you make a contract with me?”

“………Ueeeeeeeee!?”

Alua let out a strange voice when she was suddenly given that proposal.

It looks like Ilum quickly changed its target since its target Tooi refused.

“Wa-wait-wa……wait just a second. This is too sudden…….just because Tooi Onii-chan said no, even if you went with the “I guess that one is okay too” flow…………”

“No?”

“R-rather than no……..Hmm? But, wait………Is this perhaps a chance? Of I nod here…… I might become a Deity knight from today onwards……? No but, even if you tell me that all of a sudden………Ahhhh, but but, I might not get the chance to become a Deity knight anymore if I let go of this……Uuu~~”

“…………Alia-chan. If you make a contract with it, you’ll probably be burned to death once it gets bored”

After Tooi lightly warned her, Alua who was fretting in anguish […….Ah, I see] raised her face with a tone of agreement and disappointment.

“I-I am sorry, Ilum-san. I feel sorry about this but, I have to refuse”

“I see”

As expected, Ilum plainly nodded emotionlessly in response to Alua who lowered her head to reject. Even though it was rejected twice in a short time, it did not show any signs of being taken back.

Does it not feel anything? Or was it shocked to the point that it could not express its emotions?

Ilum then turned its long black hair and red outfit before facing its back towards them.

“Oi. Where are you going”

“Somewhere not here. Since I was rejected by Tooi Cross who I had expectations, I guess I’ll go find someone random to make a contract with again”

After saying that, it started walking. Orally requesting and orally rejecting………it really came to an understanding with just those dialogues. From Tooi’s perspective, because he was ready to fight Ilum when he rejected, he felt kind of disappointed.

(Is it planning to go somewhere again and make a contract with someone random……….?)

In Ilum’s viewpoint after she tried to make a contract through the flow of things and without trying to understand them; Tooi felt like he was some kind of bargain by its view and just can’t feel satisfied about it – but, he probably can’t say anything because he rejected the contract.

Since he rejected its invitation, he had no rights to stop that leaving back.

But---

“Ilum Elta Sirius. Let me ask you one more thing”

Tooi said.

“Are you……..male or female?”

“Fumu. My gender huh”

Ilum did not stop its legs and mumbled this without turning behind.

“Never thought about it”

“…………..”

The atmosphere there turned really weird; the Deity who’s gender was unknown then *Blur* disappeared.

The Deity of [Celestial Pole] – Ilum Elta Sirius.

That’s one fellow whose thoughts are seriously incomprehensible.

A week passed since the incomprehensible meeting with the weird Deity.

The 3 of them finally reached Istar village.

They then head straight to the Aldebaran Company without rest – and was then showered with sharp rejections by Zesca Aldebaran.

The story finally returned to the beginning-----

Chapter 3: The Weird Coincidence In The Night Street

Part 1

“……Is that so. You were sent away by Zesca huh”

Having heard the story, Ryura nodded in a sad yet somewhat understanding manner. Somewhere in her heart, she somewhat predicted that he could not reestablish his contract with Zesca that easily. Tooi felt the same way too.

An Istar inn called [Fiery Inn].

Remarkably standing out even within the center of the town, this building is a giant inn that is a fusion of a lodging space and a bar. It is filled with goods such as food and bed tools but, of course it comes with a price tag.

Since they were working, they had no troubles with money. Also, since transportation is all done by the motorbike (What’s more its private property of the Schut house), they can move all the money originally for transportation, towards food and lodging.

Having returned from the Aldebaran Company mansion which is at the outskirts of the town, Tooi and Alua explained the situation to Ryura who was waiting in the [Fiery Inn].

“As expected, would it have been better if I had went too? Zesca might change her attitude if she saw that we had a certain amount of power and fighting spirit”

“No, it will give the opposite effect. Because she knows that I was unarmed, that she did not attack due to her high pride”

“I see, so that was your goal”

“Well, Zesca might have saw that coming. Her attitude might have gotten prickly because she found that she did not like calculative ways…………”

The reason why he did not brought Ryura was because he wanted to show that he had no intentions to fight.

In a condition where he could immediately activate his [Dues Alma] to get ready for battle, he probably has no persuasiveness even if he said [I came here to talk].

It’s true that he calculated that the high prided Zesca won’t attack someone unarmed but – the biggest goal is to gain her trust and because he wanted to believe her.

Zesca Aldebaran is a Deity that isn’t his enemy nor is an opponent he wants to fight.

She’s his benefactor and a partner he wants to walk together with from now on.

Because of those reasons, he made Ryura, who is currently his only Deity, stay at the inn but……………he does not know how productive that plan was.

The only thing he is certain – is that Zesca’s eyes held strong cautiousness and hostility when she stared at Tooi.

“What are we going to do now, Tooi?”

“Let’s see………..We immediately aimed for the center and failed so I guess we should try attacking the exteriors next. Shoot the horse first if you want to shoot the general. It might be a good idea to hear from the people from the Company a little more”

Aldebaran Company has the label [Company] but, in Japan terms, their activity format is actually kind of like a [Brand Shop].

The head which is Zesca will make the weapons while the company sells them. That’s fundamentally how it works. Trades and purchases done in normal companies are almost not done here.

It’s a specialist shop that only handles Zesca’s weapons – It’s definitely a [Brand Shop].

Now that that is mentioned, apparently, the [Stocking] part in normal transactions is all done by Zesca alone. Maybe because of that, there are little people inside in opposite to the activity scale. It seems that she hires bodyguards and couriers so, there are about 10 people actually affiliated with the Company with Zesca left out from that count.

With that number of people, they can probably find all of their backgrounds.

“I am also curious about the person working with Zesca.

“Oh Tooi. Are you perhaps jealous?”

Tooi awkwardly scratched his nose at Ryura’s teasing smile.

“It’s not like I am jealous…..but, I am just curious. The Zesca I know………isn’t someone that would run a Company”

Tooi pulled out the sword from his hips while mumbling that. He stared at the black sword glowing bewitchingly and lightly touched as if he was affectionate with it.

Deity Sword Zodiac.

It’s a weapon made by Zesca Aldebaran only for Tooi and only one exists in this world.

“She changed huh”

Those words quietly leaked out from his lips.

At first, Zesca gave off a strong image of being an obstinate and stubborn craftsman. She holds pride and responsibility for the weapons she created and would not give her weapons unless it’s people she acknowledges.

That’s why – Tooi could only feel weird about the current Zesca since she opened a shop, is securing trading routes and is distributing large quantities of weapons to people without caring about who it is.

Something happened to her in the 10 years Tooi wasn’t present-----

(…..I guess I am jealous after all)

Jealousy or maybe it’s desires of monopolizing.

He is purely annoyed, and envious about the fact that Zesca is selling her weapons cheaply – the fact that she is making weapons for people other than him.

And also the fact that someone not him changed her viewpoint----

The room’s atmosphere turned a little heavier when Tooi was quiet.

Maybe she felt that, or maybe she was looking for a good timing,

“E-err Tooi Onii-chan”

Alua raised her voice.

“What does the words Zesca Aldebaran said when we left?”

“Un?”

“Wasn’t Zesca-san really menacing looking. Something about not forgiving you…………”

“Ahhh, that”

The extremely foreshadowing sentence Zesca let out.

Tooi has an idea on what it is regarding about that.

“How should I say this…………..i had a little fight with Zesca a little while before we defeated the [Demon King]”

“A fight?”

“Well, it’s not that serious like a fight. It’s just a difference in opinion………..”

With 12 Deities gathered, the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] was established and when they were about to challenge the Demon king – there was an occasion where Tooi and Zesca’s opinion clashed.

The words Tooi said made Zesca really angry.

The problem could not get settled by talking and it turned into a big case but – they knew that it wasn’t the time to be wasting time quarrelling about something boring. The quarrel did not develop more ever since then.

“…………it might have been better if it turned into a fight and we started punching each other. We both read the atmosphere, gave in, left it unsettled and ignored it; and now the only thing that passed was time”

Tooi let out a big sigh as if to release his indigestible emotions. He then stood up from the bed she sat down on and headed to the room’s door.

“I’m going out a little”

“Where are you going? If you’re going out to town to gather information then i………..”

“No need, it’s okay. I just want to be alone for a while”

Tooi left the room after leaving a somewhat lonely sentence.

Alua looked at his back worried but *Pon*, a hand was placed on her shoulder.

“You don’t need to be worried, Alua”

“Ryura-san”

“Let’s leave him alone for a while. Tooi also wants time to calm his feelings”

“……….you’re right”

“It’s okay”

Ryura repeated the same word.

Those eyes had absolute trust towards her master.

“Tooi thinks seriously about the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] more than anyone else. He should be able to come to an understanding with Zesca”

Alua strongly nodded at those words.

Alua also knows that Tooi thinks dearly of the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] as his comrades and benefactors.

And also the fact that he’s feeling apologetic that he revoked his contracts one-sidedly.

It’s because that’s how he is – he should be able to move the hearts of the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses].

For example, like how he did it with Ryura Vega.

It’s okay if it’s Tooi.

He’s definitely wants to relook at his relationship with Zesca after getting alone.

Both Alua and Ryura held deep expectations and trust towards Tooi and decided to wait for him to come back to the room.

It was night time already and darkness covered Istar town.

It might be a town north of the Empire but since this town is not a part of map which Ifnatus used to be on, there were no signs of scars made from the internal conflict like the village that they stopped by in the middle of the journey.

There were many people even though it’s at night, and the bars and restaurants are crowded.

After leaving the [Fiery inn], Tooi was walked alone in Istar at night.

His walking style was particularly special.

His walking speed does not have a set speed; he would sometimes suddenly make a u-turn, then advance back on track again. Even though he’s not drunk, he would dizzily change his directions.

It’s as if he was hesitant yet made up his mind about something.

Moving forward in an indecisive yet slow pace, Tooi soon reached his goal.

“…………I-I am finally here”

Tooi mumbled with a voice oozing with agitation, emotion and slight shyness.

What he is seeing right now – is a world filled with pink glows.

The first thing that entered his view was the shops decorated with flashy colorful Ether lights. It was so bright that the artificial lights almost made him forget about the night and the same time, it was dazzling as if the night filled with colors.

The streets were filled with beautiful women in exposing and sexy outfits. Women making captivating poses in an almost nude outfit. Sensual women seducing men by pushing their voluptuous breasts onto them. Females dressed up beautifully and the men surrounding them.

Yes.

The place Tooi reached – was the back area of the entertainment city.

It’s a place where brothel facilities and the prostitution industry are legal; basically it’s an adult’s playground.

(I-I got here………Uwah, amazing)

It’s an action completely betraying Alua’s and Ryura’s trust but the only thing entering Tooi’s eyes now was the dazzlingly sensual world.

Well, judging by the fact that he is a young man in the middle of his 17 year old puberty, this is a natural reaction and it might be a natural action.

1 year ago, Tooi thought of walking into the brothels several times during his last summon to another world. He found out that it’s possible to use the brothels in Arludea Empire starting at the age of 16 so he tried to boldly start his sex debut without shame.

However, he changed his mind right when he got scared at the end, because of the eyes of his comrades and several situations, he did not start his debut in the end.

Within them, his biggest obstacle was, Laila Schut.

Having traveled with him 1 year ago, she’s sensitive to juicy stories so she’s really sharp sighted. Even if he tried heading there alone, there were many times when she instantly saw through him.

It’s not like Laila stopped him to use the brothels.

She would just grin happily and laugh.

Tooi is not so courage’s to the point where he would go boldly go to a brothel while getting treated like that.

(If I enter the brothels in the Imperial capital, Laila would most likely be informed immediately. It’s about her after all; she probably has connections in those industries too)

However, if it’s a brothel of a city far away from the Imperial capital, then there’s no way Laila’s eye would reach it.

As a man, there’s no way he would let this big chance go.

Tooi reached the entertainment city with his surging curiosity and sexual urges but---

“Kuh………….”

He has not moved from the area’s entrance for 10 minutes.

Even though his knows by his head that all he has to do is enter a random shop, even though he knows that paradise is right there, his legs could not take one more step.

Towards the paradise known as the brothel, Tooi admired it because he is inexperience and at the same time, he felt fear because he is inexperience.

What should he do if he stumbles upon a really fat old lady?

What should he do if he encounters a really scary man?

What should he do if he sucks doing the act?

The discord that everyone feels when they are inexperience about sex, attacked Tooi. However, he has no time to worry about this. Alua will get worried if he is too late………ah, now that I think about it, how does the time system work here, Japan has the system where several minutes costs several yen but, is the whole night standard and normal in this country---

It was at that moment when he was repetitively having delusions and was having agonizing thoughts.

The voices of a man and woman could be heard from the entrance of the nearest brothel.

“P-please stop…….dear customer, this is problematic………….”

“It’s okay, lady. Come with me and let’s have some fun”

Tooi moved in the next instant.

He entered the shop with quick movements as if the indecisive attitude a few seconds ago was a lie.

He had the moved with the image of I can’t leave a woman in trouble but, he thought that it suits as a good trigger inside his head.

(…………This is an accident. i had no choice but to enter since it was an emergency. I must not worry about the place if it’s to save someone. It’s just that this was coincidentally a brothel and I must not worry about the details. Well…………I might get thanked from the saved woman or from the shop but…………..it’s not like I am aiming for that……no, I did not say that I would refuse you know? Yup, I’ll feel bad about the refused person and a man must not cause shame for a woman……….)

While instantly performing calculations of world desires and making an incomprehensible excuse to no one inside his head, Tooi ran towards the brothel receptionist.

“St-------“

Stop right there!

He planned to appear gallantly together with that brave sentence – but, Tooi stood stiffly and blankly when he saw the scene in front of him.

At the brothel’s receptionist, the man and woman who were presumed to be the owner of those voices, were standing there. however, their situation was completely different from the scene Tooi drew in his head.

He thought that a prostitute from the shop was being handled badly by a villain but----

“Y-you can’t, mooou…….i am the receptionist……..leave those things, eerr……..to the other girls working in the shop”

Apparently, the person receiving the invitations wasn’t a prostitute but the receptionist. The scene with her twisting her body with her face red, looked as if she’s embarrassed instead of feeling troubled.

“Sadly, I am broke today. I lost all my money from gambling, and I don’t have money to hire a woman. So, keep me company lady”

The person sending a passionate gaze while leaning on top of the reception desk, was a young man around his 20’s.

It’s a handsome man suitable for the word handsome. He’s tall and has long legs. He has a slender body but, his bare shoulders and arms were standing it because it had trained muscles.

It’s a young man with both manliness and beauty so, even the male Tooi felt charmed by him. Since she was called out by a really good looking guy, the receptionist does not look like she hates it.

(…….he came to the brothel, and is hitting on the receptionist?)

If it’s a man with high experience, if it’s a really good looking man, are you saying that this amazing feat is possible? Seeing this overly unexpected scene, Tooi froze into place.

“I-I am not like that at all. There are many women more beautiful than me in our shop……….”

“I am saying I prefer you. Or what, am I not enough for you?”

“No, that’s not true……)

The man’s invitation is about to succeed. While admiring his magnificent skills on bringing down a girl, Tooi started staring at the guy for some reason,

(………..Hmm? That guy………)

Suddenly, something pulled a nerve. He observed at the man again.

His has good looks and his hair is ash colored. Those tribal decorations were standing out on his outfit which has black as the basic tone. On his right arm – were bandages wrapped around to cover his skin.

When Tooi was thinking about that familiar appearance, the man took the receptionist’s hand and smiled happily.

“Okay. It’s decided. Okay then, let’s go lady ----let’s bring on the celebration on this encounter”

At that moment, all the gears in Tooi started engaging.

[Let’s bring on the celebration]

That’s—that man’s catchphrase.

He heard it many times.

From the person who he acknowledge as his [War comrade] in this world----

“Gilf………”

When Tooi mumbled that blankly, the man noticed him.

“Aarrh? Who is it, it’s getting to a good part now, don’t disturb-----“

He annoyingly looked over to him while brushing his ash hair up but, the moment he saw Tooi’s face, he opened his eyes wide.

“……..you’re Tooi?”

The man – Gilfrain said.

Ifnatus’s [Hero] and the man that betrayed his hometown before going missing.

He ran with Tooi in the battlefield and is Tooi’s only war comrade.

Previously a very young boy, Gilfrian has shockingly grown to a gallant young man after 10 years passed.

“………Tooi Onii-chan, hasn’t come back yet”

Having stayed back at the Inn, Alua boringly waited for Tooi’s return, while sitting on the bed which was furnished in the room.

“I knew it, I should…..nono. I mustn’t. I decided to trust him and wait. Even Tooi Onii-chan want some time alone………….and it’s not good to disturb him. He must be seriously thinking about the whole situation, even now”

Alua said that with a passionate trust. If she found out that Tooi headed straight to the brothel when he got alone, just what kind of reaction would she show?

Alua was alone in the room.

Ryura left the room a little while ago.

She said that she temporarily went back to the shrine of [Violent Wind].

“The home for us Deities, the Shrines………..will lose its functions as a Shrine if we leave it alone for too long. In order to preserve the holy attribute at that place, we must periodically return”

The Shrines acts as a castle for the Deities and at the same time, acts as a role of a dungeon to test humans. The interiors are completely different from the structures human creates and it is said that it becomes a dimension that common sense does not work there but – such a mystical place, was created to be treated as a reference point for the Deities existence.

“Err? But, Ryura-san. What about La Shii’s Shrine? I heard that she has been locked up in the underground prison for about 10 years already”

“La Shii’s Shrine is built in a messed up time axis with the concept of time and space destroyed so, La Shii is free from all those types of restrictions”

“……..Is that okay?”

“……….That girl is an existence that live while ignoring all theories and rules”

She once again felt the irregularity of La Shii Fomalhaut. Apparently, she’s called the strongest in the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] for a reason.

Anyways, Ryura returned to her Shrine with that reason.

She would be coming back tomorrow.

No matter how quick-paced, it would take at least 2 weeks from this town to her Shrine but, the concept of distance don’t matter to a Deity like her.

Having left alone in the room, Alua laid down on the bed while feeling bored. When she thought about taking a shower, a knocking sound could be heard.

When the door opened, a female worker of the Inn was standing there.

(…….A visitor for me? Who is it?)

Apparently, there was a visitor that wants to meet Alua.

(That person…….It’s Jebeg-san If I am correct?)

Alua was familiar with him.

While questioning this, Alua dressed herself before leaving the room. She went downstairs and headed to the Inn’s reception desk after passing by the bar which is a joint establishment.

Over there, was a plump male in a tidy attire.

(Why did Jebeg-san come over to us?)

Jebeg deeply lowered his head when he noticed Alua’s presence.

“I am sorry for this late night visit”

A few hours ago when they went to the Aldebaran Company’s mansion, Jebeg was the one that guided them to Zesca. Since he was a gentle and humble person, he did not make any disgusted face towards them because they visited without any notice and would threat them politely.

“………What’s wrong? Tooi Onii……Tooi Cross is currently out though”

“No, it’s okay – The person we have business with, is you Alua-sama”

Jebeg said.

“Please follow me, Alua-sma. Our master, Zesca-sama is waiting”

Chapter 4: People Who Lives To Fight

Part 1

It’s a 1 year reunion for Tooi while it’s 10 years for Gilfrain, having reunited; they were in the back alley of the brothel buildings.

“Oi, Tooi. Do you have a lighter?”

While putting a cigarette in his mouth, Gilfrain said that. Tooi took out his grandmother’s memento, the oil lighter from his pocket.

“Heeh. You started smoking?”

“No. I don’t smoke”

“Then why do you have a lighter?”

“It’s my hobby”

“Weird guy”

“Leave me alone. But Gilf. Do you need others to light your smoke? It’s easy for you to make fire right?”

“I prefer having someone else light for me”

“Weird guy”

“Shut up”

Tooi ignited the oil lighter and moved it closer to Gilf’s mouth. The cigarette leaves wrapped in paper, spread out in red and lighted up. In the dark back alley where the lights of the entertainment street can’t reach, the flames from the lighter and cigarette gently illuminated both guys.

Gilfrain *Fuuu,* exhaled the smoke from his mouth.

“But, I am shocked. Even though it’s our 10 years reunion, you did not change at all from before. I was half-doubtful that you were from another world but, it looks like that’s the truth. You really make no sense”

“You changed a lot, Gilf. You were a brat smaller than me before and now you’re a full-fledge adult. Your voice is crazy low too”

“It’s only natural since 10 years passed”

“……….you kind of gotten better in handling women too”

Tooi mumbled that hatefully and timidly.

Both of them left the brothel for a little chat outside but, when they headed outside he could hear whispering from the receptionist who was being hit on by Gilfrain.

He doesn’t know the contents but, judging by the nod from the red faced receptionist, he could imagine most parts of it. After 10 years, the 12 year old boy Gilfrain has apparently grown into an incredible playboy.

“In the past……..you were such a cute and innocent boy. No matter how many times I asked you to come with a brothel with me, you would always refuse”

“You’re the idiot for inviting a 12 year old brat. Rather, you always get scared at the last moment and head back right?”

“You were such a pure boy to the point that you were worried about your pubic hair growth problem”

“I am going to kill you, you shit!”

Gilfrain distorted his beautiful face and shouted in real anger. He then clicked his tongue in detest before exhaling smoke again. The smoke that came out from his mouth rose up in the narrow space of the back alley.

“Whether its thoughts or appearance, it’s only normal that many things would change”

10 years passed after all, he added.

Gilfrain said that in a blunt tone.

Tooi kept silent as if he was in thought for a while before,

“Hey, Gilf – why did you betray Ifnatus?”

He brought up that topic.

He asked the question that he wanted to ask, the question that he had to ask right at his face.

“I heard everything from Laila. About the internal conflict of Ifnatus, and also about your disappearance during the internal conflict”

There were no changes on Gilf’s expression. There were no signs of bewilderment or irritation, he silently continued smoking. Right when the cigarette turned shorter, he took it out from his mouth and crushed it with his fist.

He dropped the remaining shell to the ground before slowly opening his mouth.

“I did not betray them. I abandoned them”

It was an extremely cold tone.

“Abandon….?”

“Yeah. I felt that it was stupid to fight for that village. So I had a little escape time”

“…………Why, just why, Gilf. You’re Ifnatus’s [Hero] right?”

Tooi was half-doubtful regarding Gilbrains betray.

No – he simply just did not want to admit it.

Going missing in the middle of the internal conflict. That action is so far off from his way of life that Tooi used to know.

But – now.

He gained confirmation from the person himself.

The confirmation that he stopped fighting by his own will, not because of some unforeseen accident or some kind of shortage ------

“You loved Ifnatus more than anyone else right? You feel pride in being born in the tribe known as Ifnatus right. Then why…………”

“I loved it. I loved it and I was proud of it. Ifnatus’s teachings meant the world to me”

“Then”

“That is why--- I could not forgive it. I could not admit it. I could not stand looking it at it. The fall of Ifnatus”

His tone was quiet but, it felt as if he was desperately suppressing his violent emotions. Raging anger burns in his eyes and his right arm which was bandaged was clenching really really hard.

“Tooi. Did you hear about the start of the internal conflict from the giant boobies?”

“………….Ifnatus and the country’s opinions are clashing, concerning about the reward of the Demon King battle”

“Yes. That’s right. Honestly – I did not like it from the start. I hated the people from the village who were quarreling about something boring”

He continued on as if he was spitting it out.

“To Ifnatus, fighting is the goal. It is never a method. We fight to fight and will die in the battlefield as if we run out of steam. The warriors of the old Ifnatus lived like that. And if we don’t go through with that way of life, I feel apologetic to my ancestors”

There were no specific religions existing in Ifnatus’s tribe.

Instead – there’s a peculiar viewpoint of life and death.

It is said that after risking their lives in the fight, after reaching their honorable death in the battlefield, warriors would ascend to the heavens after death, join with the world and look back down to the earth.

Because of that, the people of Ifnatus would pay their respects to their tribesman who died in the battlefield.

Feeling embarrassment to actions that would betray their ancestors, they hold pride towards their souls and skills which they inherited from ancient times.

To them, they threat those ancestors who lived their lives heroically, as a type of [God].

“Of course, I need food too to survive. I more or less want money – but, regarding the Demon king battle 10 years ago, after the battle was over, they received the reward from the country as according to the contract. In response, this problem started because Ifnatus asked for more in the first place”

Ifnatus’s role in the Demon king battle was big.

They probably worked loads more than the contents of the contract that was exchanged beforehand.

That is why in a sense, it’s only normal for them to ask for more rewards – but, it’s also natural that the Empire did not reward them more than the set contract.

“It was Ifnatus that started that fight with that fucking stupid reason. On top of that, they continuously performed boring fights like terrorism, assassination and kidnapping. Even i………..was ordered by the village elders. “Go kidnap those children from the royal family”. Seriously, everything turned into shit”

Deep despair moved this man’s eye.

What was given to a man that wants to live as a warrior, was an order which is far away from the acts of a warrior. At that time, it was not hard to imagine what kind of impact Gilfrain felt at that time.

“That’s why………you abandoned Ifnatus?”

Yeah, Gilfrain nodded quietly.

He did not betray but abandoned them.

Many people would take this as the [Hero] betraying the village but – judging by thought, the one that got betrayed was probably Gilfrain.

The teachings of Ifnatus that represents his way of life was betrayed by the people of Ifnatus.

“In the first place ---- Ifnatus started to turn weird before the battle with the Demon King. People training to be warriors are decreasing every year, and in replacement, those who aim to be business entrepreneur increased. Even though there were people that worked as mercenaries, they started talking non-stop about money before I knew it. They chose the battlefield through loss and advantages, profit and losses, instead of whether there are strong or weak enemies”

Ifnatus’s old school view point which focuses on respecting pride and haughtiness was starting to get destroyed by modern commercialism.

That’s probably a normal thing to do.

There are not many people that would prioritize pride over money the money in front of them.

Everyone wants to live an easy life so money is needed. Rather than the battlefield which has no security for the future, it’s a normal emotion for any family to want a way to gain stable income in a safe environment. Even if they work in the battlefield, it’s only normal to want to reduce the risk of danger.

For example: Just like how it went with Sachs Hayern who was murdered by his contract Spirit – he’s probably a guy that threw away his pride and social status and wants to live a carefree life.

But.

There are existences in this world that would never accept such a common viewpoint.

“That village is no longer the Ifnatus I knew. It has lost its pride and I don’t want my village to fall to the dirt. That’s why I abandoned them. That’s all”

“…………so that’s how little it meant for you?”

Tooi said that.

As if he was grinding his teeth.

“To you, does Ifnatus……..your hometown, your training comrades, meant that little? Just because it changed a little, is it really something that can be thrown away that easily?”

The question that was squeezed out from the depths of his throat – was answered by Gilfrain with cold eyes as expected.

“It’s a completely different place since it changed. They say that no matter how degraded the treasure becomes, it is still treasure……..but that just means that it wasn’t treasure in the first place”

Throwing it away because it changed is love, he said.

After Gilfrain said that, Tooi had nothing to say anymore.

(……..Love huh)

For example; for a couple that’s formed with both feelings accepted and the boyfriend is seriously in love with the girl.

Because he is seriously in love with her, that he won’t hate her from something small like changing her hairstyle. Even if she changes her hobby, he would naturally not hate her. Even if she changes her make-up, even if she does a little plastic surgery, even if her voice changes from alcohol, even if her personality changed into a heavy drinker, even if her body changed from overeating, even she could not protect the promise they made before going out, even if she cheats on him ----

When the man accepts all of these changes of his girlfriend – can this man really be in love with his girlfriend?

There are things that cannot be forgiven because it’s love.

There is a line that must not be crossed.

Gilfrain could not forgive Ifnatus losing its pride and changing away.

Because he loved his hometown more than anyone else.

Rejecting change, to him, is prideful and love.

“----many such situations occurred but, conclusively Tooi Onii-chan managed to reconcile with Ryura Vega and reestablished their contact. At the end, they went to the Lectar Military that used Ryura Vega to ------“

That was the summary – not really but, Alua gave a detailed explanation of Tooi’s actions and thoughts after his 2nd summoning to another world.

It was towards Zesca Aldebaran who was in the room.

Right after the events before, Alua was brought over the Aldebaran Company by Jebeg.

But unlike the afternoon trip, she was in the last floor corner room instead of the reception room – basically, she was guided to the master’s private room.

The minimum amount of house tools and several weapons were placed inside the room. Zesca Aldebaran was alone in there. Jebeg immediately left the room and left Alua there alone with her.

She’s alone with the Deity of [Weapon Empress].

Having called out, Allua was trembling in fear from the overly unexpected events but, the words that came out from Zesca was at that moment,

“I want you to tell me about Tooi”

These were her words.

It’s a sincere request. A few hours ago, she rejected Tooi with an unapproachable attitude and seemed like a different person.

Even though Alua held questions, she started talking about what she knew.

Zesca heard the story seriously and would sometime throw questions. When they were having this type of conversation, Alua’s nervousness gradually broke.

“----That fight can only be described as the best part! Even the elites of the Lectar’s military dropped to a mob of fools in front of him! That was definitely an army in one soldier! That was definitely a match of thousands! It was as if this was being described behind the man that was running in the battlefield like the gale. That, [Tooi Cross is here]! See that, you Lectar small fries! Over here, is Arludea Empire’s strongest Deity knight in history, the [Tyrant Slayer]!”

“……sorry. Can you calm down and cut down your personal opinions as much as possible?”

Alua immediately came to when she was retorted with a tired face.

Apparently, she relaxed her nervous state too much.

Her Tooi Cross Maniac blood boiled up.

After lowering her highly enthusiastic voice, she started talking the truth without adding exaggerations.

“----That is all. This is all I know”

“I see. Thank you. Sorry to make come all the way here for this”

Zesca politely thanked Alua after she finished her story. She gives off a different impression compared to the time when she kicked Tooi out when she was sitting on her chair arrogantly.

Since her thorny atmosphere was neutralized, Alua was able to talk naturally.

“Err…….Zesca-san. Why did you go through the effort to want to hear this to the point of calling me here? You could have just asked Tooi Onii-chan directly instead of me………..”

“Fuun…………I wanted to hear from the people of his surroundings instead of the actual person”

I see, Alua agreed.

“…..But, as expected, even Zesca-san is worried about Tooi Onii-chan too”

She said that with no particular reason but – Zesca’s face color changed from that sentence.

“Wha…..Do-don’t say something that stupid! Err, well……..it’s just out of curiosity! I am not worried at all! I am not worried what so ever! No matter what that guy does, it is not my problem!”

Zesca vigorously got off her chair and started saying that with her fists clenched. Seeing that panicked state, Alua…….got somewhat a clue why.

(Ah……. I see. This is that. That……….)

If Alua is a resident of modern Japan, that special 4 katakana word will be able to express Zesca who got worked up trying to make an excuse.

(She say it’s not her problem and is not interested but, she’s actually…………worried about Tooi Onii-chan huh)

The reason why she went through all that trouble to call Alua, might be because that she wants to hear this from someone else other than the actual person – maybe, in reality, it might have been really awkward to meet up with Tooi again after how she kicked up out once before.

Just like how Tooi is curious about Zesca, she’s also curious about Tooi too.

Her arrogant and blunt attitude, is simply a way to hide her shyness, and might be the result of unable to become honest.

When she starts thinking about that, the Deity in front of her who she thought was really really scary, suddenly looked really cute to her.

(Ah, I see)

Maybe she had leisure in her heart, Alua remembered the words she heard from Tooi.

The personality of the Deity of [Weapon Empress] and the way to handle her which she heard from the former master-----

“You know, Zesca………….might look really stubborn and hard to please by first glance but, her real self is unexpectedly simple and is really predictable. If Alua-chan meets Zesca, just try praising the weapons she made”

“But well………….this place is filled with amazing weapons. I can know all of it are 1st class goods with one glance”

While looking around the room, Alua praised the weapons decorated on the wall. It might be just flattering but, those were her pure impressions.

“The sword hanging over there……how should I put this, there is a different aura to it. It’s as if there’s a soul residing in the sword itself”

“You can tell!?”

“Hii”

When she somewhat focused her praise onto the great sword which was the one closest and stands out the most, Zesca’s eye color changed and she shouted in joy.

“Fuufuufuu. So true, so true. This sword is especially my favorite even within the weapons I recently made. Look, take a look. This beautiful blade……that smooth bend line……….that detailed ornaments. Don’t you think it came out wonderfully? Look look, you can take a closer look you know? You can touch it for a while if you want?”

“…………..”

So obvious.

While being pushed by the great sword which was taken from the wall, Alua could only feel dumbfounded at Zesca who suddenly started to boast joyfully about her work.

(Sh-she really loves weapons and hold pride in her weapons……)

Once she reached this far on praising her own wares, she took a full lap and felt comfortable.

Maybe she’s the type that can’t stop after talking once, Zesca started taking more weapons from the wall one after another and would go “This is good”, “This one was a tiring one”, like a child trying to boast to the parent, she continued talking about her weapon creations.

There was no chance to interrupt the talkative Zesca so Alua kept quiet and continued listening.

(Err………..what did Tooi Onii-chan say next?)

While giving moderate indications of agreement, she started recalling back Tooi’s words inside her head again.

“Zesca’s speech patterns and attitude is manly and she is braver than most men…….but, she has a cute side to her. For example-----“

“B-beautiful”

Alua slide those words in as if to weave through the long boasting.

“HaaHaaHaa. Am I right, am I right. I was especially fixed on this spear’s ornaments after all. I was quite troubled about the color of this decoration cloth---“

“No, not that”

Alua said.

“I am referring to Zesca-san”

“………Heh?”

“Your hair is so silky, and you look good in that armor……….also, I felt that the way you do your best talking about weapons looked really cute”

This was what Tooi told her.

That’s referring to Zesca’s appearance and personality, basically, to praise her.

It’s not like Alua was flattering her, she honestly only wanted to praise Zesca’s appearance and actions which she felt like praising but, as a result-----

“~~!?”

Boom.

Zesca’s face turned red like a volcano erupting. She desperately tried to cover her face with both her arms which were covered with armguards.

“Stupid wha-what are you….!? Stu-Stupid, idiot! You are an idiot!”

“……………….”

How cute!

Apparently, she’s bad with handling praises on her appearance. Alua’s mouth naturally relaxed when she saw her getting obviously embarrassed.

“……..What, what so funny?”

Uuu, Alua quickly get rid of her smile when she saw Zesca glare at her with a groan.

“N-no, it’s not like it’s funny, it’s just that, Zesca-san is completely different from what I thought so I was a little relieved something like that……….when we came here in the afternoon, how should I say this, your overwhelming presence and hostility was terrifying……”

“Fuun. I did that because Tooi was here. There’s no way I can live my life if I keep on bracing myself like that every time”

“………..Because Tooi Onii-chan was here huh”

Alua held her words for a while before making her mind to,

“Zesca-san. What part of Tooi-chan can you not forgive?”

She asked.

“………you didn’t hear from Tooi?”

“Nothing……..he only said that it was a difference of opinion”

“Fuun. Difference of opinion huh……I see, it’s exactly that. 10 years ago – my thoughts fundamentally clashed with his. He did not want to become the master I wished for. I just can’t forgive him for that”

Zesca put back the weapons she took to its original place and sat on her chair in her room. She then folded her legs and looked over to the empty space as if to look back into the past.

“You know that I trained him right?”

“Yes. He told me that Zesca-san was the one that thought him how to fight. Also that, both of you often train in the Shrine of [Time & Space]”

“That’s right. I slammed everything into his head. This isn’t boasting but………. within the [Nebulosa], i am probably the one that spent the most time with him”

Zesca smiled.

The smile was gentle but it looked somewhat lonely.

“Until I met him, I have never thought of teaching martial arts to humans. That’s because I thought there aren’t anyone good enough. Even when he asked me to do it, at first I planned to teach him only the basics and end it there”

But, Zesca said this.

“Tooi – exceeded my expectations”

“………………..”

“He had talent but, more importantly, his tenacity was amazing. He absorbed everything I thought him and even mastered a technique that I thought was impossible to learn by observing my movements and studying it. Parallel to grasping the [Deus Alma], he continued studying my martial arts and as a result establishing his own style”

“H-he was that amazing huh, Tooi Onii-chan”

“Genius………might be an easy word to settle it but, it can’t be stopped there. Just like what I said just now, the most amazing part about him is his – tenacity. He genuinely and greedily wanted to become stronger”

Tooi’s endless tenacity. Alua knows the foundation of that.

In order to see off his own grandmother.

In order to repay back his only family.

For that – he desperately became stronger without being picky about methods.

“Honestly speaking……..by the time I made a contract with Tooi, he was already a Deity with several contracts with other Deities. Rather than expecting his individual strength, I was looking forward for the strength of the other Deities with him. But –my thoughts changed when I kept looking at Tooi. The way how he wanted to become stronger, and kept getting stronger; I honestly respected him as a warrior……….i felt pride that he was worthy of being my master. But even all that…….!”

There was violent anger in her voice. Zesca clenched her fist but, she soon relaxed and let a sigh before letting out her words again.

“……….around the time he managed to make a contract with the last member of the [Nebulosa] – Mephiros Betelgaus, and the [Nebulosa] was completed……..Tooi’s strength, to put it bluntly was god-like. Everyone was convinced that he exceeded the [Demon King] Hadar which was said to be the disaster that would destroy the world”

Tooi Cross commanded all of the [Nebulosa].

That was when he was called the legendary Deity knight, the [Tyrant Slater] and in other words, it was his prime.

He probably had unimaginable power.

“…..I was shocked. I felt fear in the depths of my heart and at the same time, felt joy. Do you know why?”

“Eh? Th-that’s………..isn’t it because Tooi Onii-chan became crazy strong………..”

“No”

Zesca said that plainly and continued.

As if she recalled back the moment, her voice was slightly trembling.

“That’s because I found out that even though he turned tremendously strong – Tooi’s strength was still developing”

Alua could not properly swallow the meaning of those words.

Still developing?

With 12 Deities under his command, and his condition which possessed the power to defeat the [Demon King] which was the cause of evil that brought chaos to the continent – was still developing?

“Gathering 12 Deities was just stimulation to Tooi – in other words, signs of his awakening. I knew this instinctively [This man can still become stronger]. I found out his caliber and trembled in joy. If it’s this man, he can become infinitely strong. He can reach the height which I could not reach alone. I was convinced with that”

But even so, Zesca continued.

“I could not hide my excitement, and in response to when I said [Let’s get stronger together] happily…………Tooi, said these words in a calm attitude”

---No, it’s enough.

---I am strong enough.

---Once I become strong enough to beat the [Demon King], there is no need to become stronger.

“……..I honestly doubted my ears. I could believe his words. [I don’t need to be any stronger than this] – that sentence was very hard for me to accept and I did not want to think that this was the sentence from a man that I serve”

The corner of Zesca’s mouth made a smile of self-scorn.

“But, just like his words, we did not go training at all ever since then. He commanded all his contract Deities and infiltrated the Demon king castle…….what happens afterword, I don’t need to say right?”

After that – it spread out throughout the world as a legend.

He defeated Hadar and revoked all his contract with the [Nebulosa].

“I was betrayed…….i thought that. I understood that It was a one-sided expectation but, I still could not forgive him nonetheless. Even though he possesses such talent and possibilities, he did not possess the pride and honor of a warrior; and I felt disappointed at him for that……….”

Zesca said it with an angry – rather, in a disappointed voice.

Alua remembered the training from a few weeks ago.

The memories of Tooi Cross’s extremely biased strength---

(……..Tooi Onii-chan was satisfied as long as he could defeat the [Demon King])

Because it was a method to go back to his own world.

Because, that was the only way to repay his only family.

For his grandmother who was close to death, he had to go back as soon as possible so, he had no leisure to pick his methods at all.

That’s why he did not pick any method and – everything becomes the method.

Suppressing the Demon King, the [Nebulosa] – and, even to become strong too.

Due to that.

Even if it’s a little, if Tooi manages to gain a power that can over take the [Demon King] then, it might be in a sense inevitable for him to give up getting stronger.

But that action, touched Zesca’s wrath.

“Bu-but, just wait a second there. Zesca-san. isn’t it weird?”

Alua asked a question.

“How did you know that Tooi Onii-chan exceeded the [Demon King]? You had that convinced tone but, we won’t know that unless he tried fighting-----“

“I know. Because Minami said it”

Zesca easily said that.

“Mina-mi…”

“Alua. Do you know why there are 12 in the [Nebulosa]?”

“Eh?”

“Do you know why Tooi gathered 12 Deities?”

“………….”

Alua could not answer the unexpected question.

She has not tried thinking about it but – now that she thought about it, it’s certainly a mystery.

Why is there 12 in the [Nebulosa].

“The answer is simple – It’s because Minami foresaw that”

“……….Minami”

The Deity of [All-knowing] – Minami Acrux.

The 7th [Nebulosa] that controls the future and wisdom.

“Minami suddenly appeared at Tooi, who has made contracts with 6 Deities, me included and said these words. [You need to make a contract with 12 Deities to defeat Hadar]”

“………..And, Tooi Onii-chan believed that?”

“Tooi wasn’t the only one. All of us believed her. No – believed, might be the wrong word to put it. I should put it as, obeyed, since it’s a stated fact”

“Fact?”

“Minami’s [Eyes] can see everything in this world whether it’s in the past, present or future. Her prophecies are absolute and she always says nothing but absolute prophecies. Her appearing and saying that prophecy – means that it will definitely be true”

As if it’s normal, as if it’s natural, Zesca talked about Minami Acrux’s absolute nature. She just practically is saying that the hit rate is always 100 percent.

Alua also knows about her foretelling ability from books but – She did not think that it would go as far as to [Absolute].

Even the same kin, a Deity would believe in [Absolute] and would not doubt it------

“You understand now right, Alua”

Zesca said.

“To him, [Strength] is just something to defeat Hadar. Tooi fundamentally lacks the pride of a warrior to want to become stronger and stay strong. I just can’t help to clash with that way of thinking”

Part 2

After returning to the inn from the entertainment street, Tooi did not head back to the room and headed straight to the shop owner to borrow the communicator at the back of the reception desk.

“-----I see. So you met Gilfrain huh”

Laila’s voice was plain as expected.

“Apparently, the reason why he came to the city was unrelated to the rebellion and was simply just a coincidence. He kind of reached this city when he was moving north because it was getting hot recently”

“Sounds like Gilfrain”

“Tentatively, I thought of reporting this but, was it bad that I let him go? Does he have a wanted poster?”

“Prize money exists but, I don’t mind if you ignore it. I don’t think you can catch him at your current state”

“True………..i think Gilf has been fighting somewhere the whole time. I knew it from his body and presence. He has grown so much that he could not even be compared to his 12 year old self that I knew. In response – I left the battlefield for 1 whole year”

“In the first place, if he cause some sort of trouble then It would be a problem if you can’t fight even if you can’t win”

“I wonder about that. He went off before I could ask those types of question. From the conversation with my [War comrade] who I had a after 10 years reunion with, apparently, the situation of his picked up girls were more important”

“Hoou. That brat became an adult huh”

“He got so handsome that it pisses me off”

“I see, I guess I have to take a look at least once”

That was a superficial empty conversation.

After ending an empty conversation through the communicator, Laila said this with a somewhat self-scorning tone,

“You……..won’t say anything huh”

She said that.

“I was the one who destroyed Ifnatus. But even so, you did not try to console me or try to verbally attack me”

“What, you want to me to console you? Or – you want me to blame you?”

“………………”

“I won’t say anything. Rather ---- it’s Laila that isn’t saying anything right?”

Tooi said.

“The reason why an internal conflict occurred in Ifnatus……is because of me right?”

Laila did not say anything.

He could only hear painful silence from the communicator.

“If I went back to my world – I, the person who was the most active in the Demon king battle abandoned all the reward and disappeared so, it became the trigger for the Internal conflict. Am I right?”

The Demon king battle – the grand war from 10 years ago dragged the whole Reneous continent into it.

The person that contributed the most in that war – was definitely Tooi.

It’s only natural that the hero who defeated the source of evil, the [Demon King] would receive a big reward compared to anyone else. Of course for status and money, it wouldn’t have been weird if he was given a whole city or land. Actually, Arludea Empire probably prepared that much for the person who contributed the most.

However, the important hero wasn’t present there.

Then – it’s a normal consequence that someone else would want the reward that was in a state of hanging.

“The hero saved the world free of charge…………that would be the coolest existence if it’s a fairytale but, it would only cause trouble if such a person exist in reality. The people would seem greedy for money if they ask for that legitimate reward and the big shots wouldn’t be able to maintain their honor since they could not offer the reward to the hero”

About Ifnatus’s request for additional reward.

Tooi can’t distinguish if that’s appropriate or not appropriate.

The only thing that’s certain is that, the internal conflict in Ifnatus wouldn’t have occurred if Tooi stayed in this world-----

“………….Tooi. The responsibility isn’t all on you. Before the Demon King battle, there was a conflict between the Empire and Ifnatus. Even if you stayed in this world, no-----“

“Thanks, Laila. But it’s okay”

“Tooi……..”

“I done it fully prepared for everything. No matter how much chaos I bring to this world, no matter how much evil I leave in this world, I still wanted to go back to my world. The only thing that I will never let happen is to let my grandmother die alone”

That’s why; he could perform the grand job – no, the reckless action of commanding over half of the 21 Deities of this world.

He even done that fully aware on how terrifying that is----

“I am prepared to be hated and resented through misunderstandings. If someone blames me then I plan to laugh it off with [No, it’s not my problem]. But………….no one would blame me for this. Whether it’s you or Alua-chan”

“…………”

“Laila. It’s just like what you said before”

Tooi said.

“We are accomplices. That’s why let’s live burdening our crimes we caused”

There was no reply. Only the soft sound of a sigh tickled his earlobe. Tooi knew that Laila was smiling over at the other side of the communicator from only her breathing.

After the call was over, Tooi returned to his room, noticed that Alua was not in before heading to the inn owner to ask for an explanation – it was at that timing that she came back.

“Alua-chan……are you okay?”

“Yes. I am okay. I only had a little chat”

When they got back to the room, Alua talked about the events in the mansion.

About the conversation she had with Zesca Aldebaran----

“Tooi Onii-chan. I think you should talk to Zesca-san one more time? If you explain the reason why Tooi Onii-chan fight, the reason why you had to go back to your world, I know Zesca-san would understand”

“……..I wonder”

Tooi spoke ambiguously to Alua’s earnest appeal.

“If I explain about my grandmother, I know that Zesca will understand. I know she’ll understand and say that it can’t be helped. But – that’s it”

“That’s it?”

“Only the misunderstanding will be cleared; our viewpoints towards [Strength] won’t change a bit”

[Strength] to the human called Tooi Cross, is nothing but a method.

He sought for [Strength] 1 year ago for his grandmother and is currently desiring [Strength] for the [Nebulosa].

Becoming stronger, he can’t find any value from it by itself.

But Zesca, is a weapons craftsman to the bone and is also a warrior at the same time.

To her, [Strength] by itself is something that deserves respect.

“No way………..”

Alua’s expression turned dark before she let out an anxious voice.

“Then, what should we do……..we are running out of time”

“Time? What do you mean by time?”

“Zesca-san told me this. The transaction with the Rebellion…….with the [Wings of crimson light] has been settled and has stocked up with large quantity of weapons”

“…………that woman, she told a military officer Alua-chan about these things huh”

Tooi felt tired in response to Zesca who seems to be clueless about professional ethics and customer privacy. Does she have any sense of awareness that her actions are picking a fight with the country’s military.

“It seems that she does not know where are the hideout and refuge of the [Wings of crimson light]. The distribution and negotiations are all done by Jebeg-san so Zesca-san that this was none of her business”

“Fuuun. Basically, the real master is him huh”

Zesca will only make weapons while Jebeg handles all the other everything else.

Apparently, Aldebaran Company was created with such a system.

For a normal master, this is an impossible organization system but, to Zesca who doesn’t care about money making or authority, this might be in a sense the best structure.

(Which means, there is a high possibility that the one selling weapons to the rebellion isn’t Zesca and is Jebeg instead……well, judging from Zesca’s personality, it wouldn’t be weird if she was selling to the rebellion anyway)

When he was in thought for a while, Alua [Err…] opened her mouth worriedly.

“Tooi Onii-chan……..as expected, you are going to make Zesca-san our allies?”

“Hmm? What do you mean by that?”

“I…….am a military officer of Arludea Empire. As an officer wearing this military uniform, I can’t ignore the rebellion and the Company selling weapons to the rebellion that is endangering the country”

But, Alua continued.

“Zesca said that continuing that company is her pride. [Power to the ones who desire it]. Under that motive, she would give weapons to anyone without discrimination. Even distributing weapons to the rebellion, she does not have anything bad in mind………..”

“She did say that”

“My impression changed quite a lot when I talked with Zesca-san just now. She’s more honest than what I expected, and is a very cute female. But, as a military officer I cannot agree with her actions. But………Tooi Onii-chan respect Zesca-san’s thoughts right?”

Alua’s voice was slightly trembling but, her eyes were not wavering and were staring straight at Tooi.

Who will he pick the citizens or the [Nebulosa]?

It’s as if those eyes directed at him were asking that.

Or maybe – it’s a simpler question.

Whose side will you pick, human or Deity ---

“I am Zesca’s ally”

Tooi said that.

He said that without any hesitation.

“Laila and Alua-chan might be thinking of crushing that company but, if it’s a company that Zesca wants to make then, I won’t want to crush it. I want to reestablish our contract but I will not hurt her in order for that”

“…………”

“Rather than the [Citizens] that I have not seen before, Zesca is more important for me”

“……….You’re, right”

Ala made a painful expression and looked down. Tooi *Pon* gently placed his hand on her head.

“Don’t be so disappointed, Alua-chan. I am planning to destroy that company now”

“E-ehhhh?”

Alua’s face sprung up.

“Wh-what do you mean? Y-you just said that you don’t want to crush it…….”

“If it’s a company she wants to make, was what I included”

After telling her that, Alua’s expression turned even more disordered.

“E-err……….Is Zesca-san being forced to do it by someone?”

“No, not like that. How should I say this”

While searching for the right words, Tooi said his thoughts.

“How should I say this……most of the [Nebulosa] are the pure types”

“Eh? Pu-pure?”

“Should I say pure and innocent or they love dreaming? Most of them don’t interact with humans after all so, they are kind of out of society. Ryura kind of feels that way right?”

“Y-yes……”

Alua nodded.

A month ago, Ryura Vega tried to protect Fior region to the point of confronting Tooi and the Empire but, the reason for it was so pure and romantic.

“Until Ryura met me, she has not made any contracts with any human. Of course, there’s no way she interact with humans too. And this goes for Zesca too. That’s why – Zesca probably knows nothing. Things like what she’s doing”

Tooi then continued mumbling something to himself.

“I have to tell her quick……no……..i might not make it now. It’s best if we rush now. I can’t allow that company to take advantage of Zesca anymore than this”

I have to hurry up and save her.

While those lines might sound like the lines of a hero of justice, who said it out of a sense of justice, those words were also smeared with the desire to monopolize and desire to protect like the words of an overprotective parent.

Chapter 5: Weapons Beyond Its Position

Part 1

Zesca Aldebaran was walking in the forest alone.

It was on the next day after the group visited Aldebaran Company HQ.

As her daily routine, her hobby, her reason for life and meaning for her existence – her weapons creation work calmed down a bit, Zesca took a stroll to relax.

Without rushing, she was leisurely walking in the forest which was being poured by the afternoon sunlight filtered by the trees.

It was a peaceful forest with no one in it.

She had planned to empty her head there but – her head just won’t clear up.

(Tooi…….)

There is one man that won’t get erased no matter how much she tried erasing him.

He’s the man that she obeyed and accepted as master 10 years ago – and also the man that reappeared in front of her.

(………No good. As expected, I just can’t forgive him)

Last night, she heard various information regarding Tooi from Alua, who she called out for.

What she knew was that Tooi is still Tooi after so long.

That’s why – Ryura Vega probably responded to his reestablishment of contract.

Even after 10 years passed, Tooi Cross remains the same as to when Zesca acknowledged him – and at the same time, he remains betraying Zesca.

She won’t forgive him.

No – she don’t want to give in, might be a more proper term.

In order for Zesca to remain as Zesca, in order to maintain her pride, she must not accept Tooi who can’t find a meaning to be a warrior and not seek [Strength].

Tooi’s current goal is to reunite the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses].

For the goal he has set, he will become stronger to achieve it.

But, if he achieves that goal – he will throw away the desire to improve.

If that happens, Zesca cannot stand it.

(…………..Regardless, a contract is impossible. I now have a company)

Aldebaran Company.

It’s a company she built right after Tooi defeated the [Demon King] and revoke her contract.

The cause was her meeting with a man called Jebeg.

As a merchant travelling around the country, she found Zesca who was loitering around the continent without any goal and requested her to sell weapons.

Of course Zesca rejected but, Jebeg persisted.

He then said these words.

“There are many people in this world that wants your weapons, that wants power”

Those words – shook Zesca.

There are people desiring her power in this world.

There are people thirsting for the power Tooi wished for and thrown away.

She felt amused when she thought of sharing her powers to those people.

It was her pure feelings to give power to people who desire it but – it’s just venting her anger, or maybe a small feeling for revenge.

Rather than a guy that talks about being satisfied such as [I am strong enough], she ended up giving power to the people who [Wants to be stronger] and was lamenting.

After that, under Jebeg’s instruction, she established Aldebaran Company. Most of the work was left to Jebeg and the people he hired and Zesca worked hard in weapon creation.

Actually, Jebeg was the one who managed the company but, Zesca didn’t mind that.

She knows that she was being used for his personal gains but, she is not concerned about that at all.

She gives her weapons to the people who want it.

Having losing Tooi, this was her only fulfillment.

Power to the ones who desire it.

And that turned into Zesca’s new pride.

Even her latest costumers – the [Wings of crimson light] became a rebellion that holds deep hatred towards the Country’s military but, Zesca did not discriminate them for that.

As a result, they might end up causing chaos in the country but - she doesn’t mind that.

If they hold hatred then all they have to do is destroy their enemy.

If they have something they can’t yield then all they have to do is fight to the end.

Zesca gave them power for those reason.

From what she heard, the [Wings of crimson light] is an organization created with the survivors of Ifnatus as the core. Zesca knows about the internal conflict of Ifnatus.

Then, they have the justifiability to have revenge on the country.

If the [Wings of crimson light] wage war to the country then it will probably turn into a beautiful battle. Zesca’s weapons which will be covered with pride and hatred will probably increase in glow.

“……..Hnn”

Zesca suddenly changed her expression.

She felt someone using her weapons.

It’s not like she can know whenever she wants and anytime she wants but, if a weapon that has been created recently is nearby then Zesca is able to catch its presence.

(It’s the weapon given to the [Wings of crimson light]………it’s surprisingly close)

After thinking a little, Zesca started moving towards the direction where she felt the presence.

That’s because she became curious on how her weapons are being used.

(Now that I think about it, this is the first time looking at people using the weapons the company sold)

To Zesca, the weapons she made were just as cute as her own child.

But – if it’s given to someone else once then, she thought of not meddling with it afterwards.

As a merchant, as a warrior, it’s a natural manners.

That’s why, she was able to live without particularly thinking about the goods that are sold but----

(Well, taking a look won’t hurt)

As a form of relaxation, she decided to see the fight of the [Wings of crimson light].

(So they are already in a war with the Country’s military huh….no, it’s possible that they are just training)

Whenever she thinks about the weapons she created, her delusions just can’t stop popping up.

(If they suck at using it then I might have to give them a lecture. Fufufu)

Zesca laughed in her mind.

She soon passed the forest and reached a place where there are people.

Over there, was a small village settlement which is slightly apart from the Istar town.

She might end up getting found out about peeking at the [Wing of crimson light] if she gets too close so, she stood on top of a small hill which has the view of the whole village and concentrated her eyes to observe the village from far away.

And- she was in loss of words.

What was shown inside Zesca’s eyes were the [Wings of crimson light] repeatedly pillaging and outraging at the villagers.

“Eh-------“

She had no idea what was going on.

She did not want to accept the scene in front of her.

Zesca stood stiff while her mind was blank- as if to scorn at her, they were repeatedly performing outrages acts.

The men presumed to be a part of the [Wings of crimson light] were destroying the houses of the village, and were taking away valuable objects. The villagers running away were cut from behind and were trampled all over. Maybe they were planning to sell away the female children; they were all tied by ropes and were gathered at one spot like baggage. The men who were confronting them with weapons in arm were easily cut down.

All those vile and atrocious acts – were all done by the weapons Zesca made.

The weapons, after going through a selection of ore and forged with her soul, easily attracts Spirits because of it high perfection.

Which means – the ultimate battle spirit tech, the [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] can be activated easily.

Those who aren’t gifted and those who did not work hard, are able to step into a higher realm.

There were about a total of a 100 people from the [Wing of crimson light].

All of them were activating their [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] and were trampling over the village with tremendous power.

There isn’t any force nearby the village that can handle them. There are some bodyguards but, they were apparently taken out already.

By the [Wings of crimson light] – No.

There is nothing in this village that can compete against Zesca’s weapons.

“Wh……Wh……”

Why-----

Zesca still could not understand the one-sided trampling happening under her eyes.

The powers they gained were directed towards the people weaker to them.

She – as a Deity, could not understand the reason for that action at all.

They aren’t a rebellion?

Didn’t they want power to have revenge on their hated Empire?

Didn’t they want a good weapon to confront a strong enemy?

“----My grandma said this, [Humans choose weapons but weapons don’t choose humans]”

A voice.

A quiet yet lonely voice echoed behind Zesca.

“Well……this is bound to happen. If the people who proclaims themselves as the rebellion, gains power, this would be the first thing to happen”

“Tooi………..”

Tooi Cross was the one who walked behind her.

He was looking at the village with a painful face.

“Why are you here”

“From the investigation, I found out that the hideout of the [Wings of crimson light] is nearby this sector. And when I was investigating the area, I coincidentally met with the people who escaped the village and was asked for help”

While plainly saying that, Tooi’s sights moved from the village to Zesca.

“Zesca. Is this what you wished for?”

“No! Th-there’s no way I would wish for something this atrocious!”

“But, you caused this”

“………..uh”

“The [Wings of crimson light]………….call themselves the rebellion or revolutionary army, on the surface they are fighting with the goal to have their sacred land Ifnatus set free and wants independence from the Empire but – in reality, they are an organization that repeatedly perform stealing and pillaging like thieves”

“What did you say……….”

“Well, this news is still in the current state though. They might really use the money they gathered from attacking villages like this for the revolution. They might be attacking the villages with a noble reason that we cannot comprehend. But, there is one thing certain – they are trashes that would direct their weapons to people who aren’t resisting”

“………………….”

“Do you know this, Zesca. These are the people that you are selling your weapons to”

“N-no……..i-I”

“Not everyone would fight with a noble goal. Humans aren’t the only ones that want weapons for honor and pride. There are people existing in this world that wants power to trample over the weak too”

Zesca dropped the ground after hearing his silent verbal attacks.

She was crushed by deep regret and the anger towards her naivety

The Deity of [Weapon Empress] – Zesca Aldebaran.

To her, a disaster – probably meant having Tooi as her first contractor.

Having not interacting much with humans in the past, the first human that she was deeply related to her, was Tooi Cross. And half-consciously – she started to take Tooi as the basis of other humans.

The people that want power must have a noble goal.

That’s why even if she lends a hand to them; they won’t swing it towards the weak.

That presumption – was just crushed into bits.

Swinging her weapons with amateurish skills, and one-sidedly trampling over female children with violence that has no signs of pride of beauty – after seeing the scene under her eyes, she found out about her naivety and fault.

“………I have to stop them”

After Zesca said that, she unsteadily stood up.

“These acts cannot be forgiven”

“Why?”

“It’s obvious! How can I let my weapons get used that way!”

“That’s your selfishness, Zesca”

Tooi said that emotionless.

“As a merchant, you sold weapons to them. But even so, you are going to comment or interfere, just because you don’t like how they use it, have some modesty”

She knows that even without him telling her.

That’s why she did not interfere with the weapons she sold until now.

That’s why she did not notice something this simple. She did not notice that there are humans that won’t use her weapons according to her wishes.

“No matter how much you talk good about it, weapons are still weapons. They are tools of war and death objects to harm humans. Their actions are complete crimes but they aren’t mistaken in their ways of using weapons. The country’s military moving is one thing, but a Deity like you interfering is illogical”

Because.

You were the one who sold them the weapons.

Those verbal attacks pierced deeply into Zesca’s chest. Self-blame and regret swelled up and was crushing her.

But - she did not fall.

She clenched her teeth and glared straight at Tooi.

“……….I don’t care that this is my selfishness!”

Zesca said that.

“This is the problem I caused because of my naivety! I will do something about it! Also…….”

“Also?”

“………..I hate things I hate! I won’t allow my weapons to be used in such a vile way! My weapons must be used in a way that I will feel proud of!”

That was – a really arrogant line. It’s a statement that crosses the boundary of a merchant and at the very least, that isn’t a line for her to say because, she was the one that distributed her weapons.

But, Tooi made a small smile after hearing her statement.

“You’re a selfish one, Zesca”

But, Tooi continued.

“I unexpectedly don’t hate that part about you”

It was at that moment.

The wind.

A gentle breeze blew past the small hill and headed towards the village which was wrapped in a catastrophe.

Immediately, continuous acts of miracles wrapped the village.

The rope tying the female children were cut down by a local kamaitachi. The people, who were trying to cut down the escapers, fell down after their legs were caught by the locally generated whirlwind. Fired fireballs were erased by the gust.

It’s as if the wind was protecting the village.

“This is…….!”

“Ryura is already moving. Ryura’s ability is a must have in order to protect our allies in these types of turmoil. Alua-chan is also working hard to evacuate the villagers to a safe spot”

“…….them huh”

“Well then, let’s move too, Zesca”

After saying that, Tooi extended his hands to her.

“I’ll lend my hand Zesca. This is to protect your pride”

An indescribable nostalgia was felling Zesca’s chest. He has not changed. He has not changed from 10 years ago. His appearance, voice and even his eyes looking straight at her.

“…….D-don’t misunderstand. I have not forgiven you. In order to fix my problem, I will join with you temporarily since I have no choice”

“That’s okay. I don’t plan to change my thoughts too. We might not agree to each other but, well, let’s gradually compromise”

“……..Fuun”

In response to Tooi’s somewhat leisure attitude, Zesca snorted as if she was sulking before extending her hand to him.

Once Tooi grabbed her hand, he moved his face to her.

Wha, wai-wait just a second! Wha-what are you planning to doing!?”

“What do you mean by what…………it’s a contract. How should I say this………..i thought of making the contract with the kiss”

“K-kiss!? Do-don’t joke with me!”

“Why are you so embarrassed”

“I-I am not embarrassed”

“We did it once before”

“We were alone the last time right!? D-doing something like that in an open place like this……there’s some mental preparation that needs to be done”

“The damages of the village is increasing as we quarrel you know?”

“uh!? Th-threating me is cowardly……”

“I get it. I won’t force you. Calm down for now. Take a deep breath”

“A-aah………….”

Zesca took a deep breath with a red face and tried to regain her composure but – immediately, her hand was forcefully pulled.

“Wha….what are---------Hnnn!”

In order to close her mouth which was letting out a panicked voice, Zesca’s lips were stolen in a very forcefully way. Zesca was mad at first and her eyes were overflowing with shame but, after a few seconds, she closed her eyes and accepted Tooi’s existence.

Phosphorescence light appeared around them and a vivid contract circle was constructed.

The Deity of [Weapon Empress] – has once again become Tooi Cross’s servant.

The village was being controlled by Ryura Vega’s wind.

She was sealing the movements of the [Wings of crimson light] and was protected the villagers.

What she’s doing is the same as when she captured the people of the [Wings of crimson light] that escaped into the Imperial capital a few weeks ago but, the situation then was different.

First off – the scale was different.

It was 5 at that time but, now she had about 100 enemies. Grasping all the movements and capturing them is tough even for Ryura.

Adding on – the enemies are all equipped with Zesca’s weapons.

They were not hiding assassination tools meant for hiding like the ones that the captured people in the Imperial capital had, and were all battle specialize swords and spears. The [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] activated by using those weapons as medium were tremendously strong and it makes it impossible to easily break the weapons.

Well, there’s naturally no one there that can’t fight Ryura 1 on 1 and even if it’s a 1 vs 100 situation, there’s no factor that would allow the Deity Ryura to lose – but, if she adds in the condition of protecting the villagers, the trouble increased up.

Because of that, she would only focus on protecting the villagers.

Because it was her master’s order.

Destroying the enemy, is left to the others.

“I am counting on you, Tooi. Zesca”

Tooi and Zesca stepped into the village and headed towards the people of the [Wings of crimson light] who were being tossed around by unidentified wind movement.

“……..I won’t forgive you. I will not forgive you, Tooi. How dare you do that in such an emotionless and damn…….”

“Sorry. Let’s clean up the enemy in front of us first”

“…………I still don’t like that easy going attitude”

The servant was obviously not satisfied and the master was in a carefree mood.

Both of them gives off a dumb impression but, once they caught the existence of their enemy in their view, the colors of their eyes changed and was filled with fighting spirit.

“Let’s do this – Zesca”

“Yes my LordRoger”

Tooi pulled Zodiac from his hips and raised it up.

At the same time, Zesca disappeared and possesed the short sword.

At the same time – a burning heat dwell within the short sword. With only 1 existing in the world, this legendary sword– the [Weapon Empress] Deity’s greatest masterpiece, had connected a human and Deity.

“[Nebulosa NemesisThe Divine Punishment of the 12] – [Quinto5th Chapter]”

Tremendous amount of Ether gushed out from the Etherium blade. The black light covered Tooi’s body and created his equipment.

Tooi Cross, the Deity knight that defeated the Demon King with 12 Deities under his command.

One of his powers that he owns has manifested in this world once again.

“[Henerar ArroganciaPride of the Weapon Empress]”

Immediately, an indescribable overwhelming presence attacked the area. All of the people of the [Wings of crimson light], who were in disorder from the unidentified wind, tasted a fear as if blades were all pushed towards their necks.

What appeared there was a warrior wearing black armor.

On his left arm was a glowing black sword. It looks unrefined and had a sinister appearance.

Manifesting the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] heroically and majestically, Tooi placed the great sword on his shoulders while looking at the [Wings of crimson light] group in front of his eyes.

He was observing each and every one of them, whom had manifested the Spirit Armor with Zesca’s weapons as the medium.

“………I see. Just like the rumors, there are a lot of people from Ifnatus”

Ash colored hair and arms wrapped in bandages.

Seeing the characteristics of a destroyed tribe, Tooi slightly frown his eyebrows.

“The people Laila freed, are attacking the village with Zesca’s weapons huh……..This is expectedly”

Unpleasant.

After saying that with a terrifyingly cold tone, Tooi lowered his body by crouching down while carrying the great sword on his shoulders.

Immediately- he dashed.

He ran with the speed of a fierce animal and set his target onto one guy. He jumped high up and swung down the sword.

“Hii”

The man screamed but he immediately entered into a defensive stance with the sword he held. Since it was a direct and large swing attack, his movements were predicted and got blocked.

But – Tooi swung down the great sword without caring.

It wasn’t a fake nor was it a tactic; it was a simple full swing attack.

With that attack, the [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] sword which was in defensive stance – was sliced apart into 2.

This scene is probably suitable for the 4 kanji word known as Ittouryoudan.

Rather than calling it sliced apart, it’s more towards forcefully slam apart.

“I-Im-impossible……!”

The man collapsed to the ground with a despaired voice. The [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] was forcefully deactivated due to the sword getting destroyed.

The short sword which was used as the medium broke apart because it was unable to stand the impact.

“……Sorry about that, Zesca”

“I don’t mind”

The voice echoed out from the weapon Tooi held to respond to his apology.

“My beloved weapons should be feeling reluctant to be used for this mass killing. If that’s the case, then it’s my mission as the parent to stop them even if I have to break them”

“………..Is that how it is?”

“I created those weapons. I know their feelings the best”

Isn’t that the line of an overprotective bad parent? Tooi thought that but, he did not say anything. In the first place, there’s no way he could understand the weapon’s feeling. Weapons are still weapons to the end, and would change their attitude according to the user.

That’s why, it’s hard to understand the feelings of thinking about the weapon’s feelings but – but even so, his feelings for Zesca who feels for weapons, is certainly inside Tooi.

The [Wings of crimson light] were shocked when they were confronted with the warrior who suddenly appeared in divine armor.

Their comrade’s [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] was utterly destroyed with just a swing of a great sword. They were frozen into place after seeing the unordinary power of the unidentified enemy.

The person that made them move was their chief’s shout.

“You lot, don’t be afraid!”

Chief of the [Wings of crimson light] –Guloss

He had ash color hair and bandage wrapping his right arm. He’s a warrior of Ifnatus and a survivor of the internal conflict.

“Right now, we have the best weapons that we gained from paying a lot of money! There’s no way we would lose to some random brat!”

After hearing their chief’s shout, his comrades were release from the stiffness. That’s right, we have nothing to fear now. Every one of their expressions was oozing with relief and joy.

They can’t wait to test out the ultimate weapon that they finally gained. Weapons made from a Deity were devilish weapons that hold that much charm.

The performance of the [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] activated with her weapons, has increased to an incomparable level. Even if it’s people who could not activate it satisfyingly before, they can easily activate it now.

This goes for the chief Guloss too.

He’s a member of Ifnatus and is a warrior that went through many strict training in the village.

He has not held any weapons until now at all and fought only using Ifnatus’s special hidden spells but – even he was currently activating the [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] with Zesca’s weapon.

Zesca’s weapons were just that strong and charming to the point where the battle techniques he learned felt stupid.

In the end, they were all in high spirits.

They gained powerful weapons, thus causing their power to take a rapid increase so, that caused their mental state to completely soar high up.

That’s why he didn’t notice.

That, there is an overwhelming strength between them and the man blocking their way.

That, he was the legendary existence that defeated the [Demon King], Tooi Cross----

“----Haaaaaaa!”

The great sword groaned. It’s a great swing as if he performed a full body rotation. The large slash blew the 3 males in front of him away.

“Tsk………You idiots! Don’t challenge that crazy huge sword from front on!”

After hearing Guloss’s angry shout, the group of men changed their movements. They scattered about inside of staying in a group and surrounded Tooi from all directions.

The great sword holds unblock-able destructive powers but, because of its large size, it’s easy to predict the extra attacks and it’s not impossible to dodge it.

The people in front barely dodged the large swing performed again. Taking that chance, the people that got behind him immediately closed in the distance.

If he’s specialized in big weapons, there will definitely be a chance.

Haying read that, they all headed towards Tooi at the same time to slash him but – immediately, they saw something impossible.

“[Espada GemelaTwin Blade]

The black great sword turned into light particles and vanished. A black short sword appeared in Tooi’s hands for an instant but; Ether immediately covered its surrounding and took on the weapon’s shape.

What appeared were 2 swords.

They were short double-edge dual blades.

With swords in both his hands, Tooi intercepted the people close to him.

Changed from the large sword skills just now, he attacked with delicate and quick sword skills.

“What-----“

During the time Guloss and the others were shocked, Tooi moved to the next target.

“[HachaBattle Axe”

After clearing out the enemies of his surroundings, he dashed in the battlefield like the wind. After changing the dual blades into a giant axe during movement, he swung down towards a man wearing study armor. The armor man prepared his shield in reflex; the giant axe sliced the whole shield into half and slashed deep into the armor. Since Tooi stopped at the edge, the man’s head did not split but, the man with his [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] armor crushed, lost consciousness on the spot.

“[LanzaLance]”

The people chasing him from behind had their weapons broken after receiving the spear attack launched without him looking at behind. Tooi pulled his spear while turning behind and took a short pause before performing continuous pierce strikes.

After clearing out the enemy with pierce strikes like the summer rain,

“[Espada GrandeGreat Sword]”

He took stance again with the black great sword that he manifested at first and aimed more targets before-----

---[Henerar ArroganciaPride of the Weapon Empress]

The [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] manifested with the contract with Zesca Aldebaran – allows him to recreate all the weapons she had created to the present.

The number of weapons the Deity of [Weapon Empress] – easily crosses over thousands. Naturally for weapons such as swords, spears, axes, and sickles; projectile weapons like throwing knives bow & arrow, and even defensive tools such as armor and shields; she has created various types of weapons with her soul poured into it.

[Henerar ArroganciaPride of the Weapon Empress] allows him to perfectly recreate them by pulling the memories out form Zesca. Because of that, there is not mix shape and it would change depending on the battle situation.

The ultimate skill that holds unlimited faces, in a sense, is the proof of how this Deity lived.

It’s a noble weapons worthy to be crowned the name [Weapon Empress]----

“[Arco y FlechaBow & Arrow]"

The people who took position for long-ranged attacks under Guloss’s command were all shot down by Tooi’s fired arrows before they could prepare their long-range weapons.

With about 100 people in the [Wings of crimson light], they all had most of their weapons destroyed and were lying on the ground unconscious.

“………Kuh, damn it”

“It’s about time you come over to attack too, how about it?”

Tooi said to the groaning Guloss while lowering his grand bow.

“You’re the boss right. I don’t know if you’re the boss of the people that came to this village or the whole boss of the [Wings of crimson light] but………..how long do you plan on staying behind there? If you don’t want to fight then drop your weapon”

“…….uh”

“From what I can see, you’re a warrior of Ifnatus”

While staring at the right arm wrapped in bandage, Tooi continued.

“If you can’t admit defeat without fighting then…………let’s change place and have a fair fight. I’ll take you on until you feel satisfied”

That’s – Tooi’s way of respect.

It was respect towards the Ifnatus tribes and was not towards the rebellion that was repeatedly causing pillages.

He had matters he had to consider in response to the tribe that reached the road of destruction because he was the cause of it, even though it’s indirect.

In the Japanese way, this is a warrior’s sympathy.

However, in response to Tooi’s act of kindness,

“D-don’t fuck with me! Who is going to fight a monster like you!”

He turned around at the same time with shouting curse words before running away without even looking aside.

While staring at him running away, Tooi tiredly narrowed his eyes.

“………..An Ifnatus warrior running away from an enemy. This is a normal fact but, I guess not everyone is like Gilfrain”

He closed his eyes and mumbled that in a lonely tone – and once he opened his eyes, there was a sharp glint there. It’s the eyes of a hawk targeting its prey. Guloss was running with all his might but, he is far from Tooi’s mobility.

He can immediately catch up if he was serious.

However---

“Uh!?”

Immediately right when he was about to run, Tooi’s immediately stopped.

That’s because there was a familiar man in the path of the escaper----

“Gilf…………”

Gilfrain Dulk Lana Merjedra Ifnis.

That man blocked Guloss who ran away from the battlefield in lightning speed. His heroic beautiful face was currently emotionless.

He silently was looking down at Guloss with squinted eyes.

“……..Wha!? Y-you’re-----“

Guloss gazed at him and showed his shock.

It was only natural.

Right now, the person standing in front of him was Ifnatus’s [Hero] – Gilfrain.

There isn’t anyone that does not knows him if they live in Ifnatus Village.

He’s the genius boy that appears once every 100 years and was given the title [Hero] in a young age.

The young boy admired the village more than anyone else, and felt pride it in but – a few years ago.

He betrayed Ifnatus in the vortex of the internal conflict, and suddenly disappeared----

As a member of Ifnatus and had joined the internal conflict, the emotions shown in Guloss’s eyes, soon turned to anger from shock.

“Gilfrain…! You bastard, where have you been all this time!”

Violent abuse came out from the man’s mouth.

“If you fought, as long as you fought, Ifnatus would have a chance in that internal conflict! If you obeyed the chiefs’ orders, it was a fight we could win! Gilfrain! Do you know!? The reason why the village was destroyed – is because of you!”

The overflowing abuse sounded like painful lamenting.

To the Village, Gilfrain, who’s their greatest strength, was the hopes of the people of Ifnatus that have proceeded to start the internal conflict.

The Empire can even be defeated if the [Hero] was there.

There are probably a lot of them that thought that.

On the other side – Since Gilfrain possess such irregular battle strength, it can be said that they saw an impossible dream.

Everyone was expecting from the [Hero] and was dreaming.

Because of that, the people of Ifnatus – all died while hating Gilfrain who betrayed them. There are many of the survivors that hate him too.

“Oi! Are you listening, Gilfrain!”

The [Hero] did not answer Guloss’s shout.

His sharp eyes were directed towards the hands of the man who was shouting in anger – towards the sword that was purchased from Aldebaran Company.

“Damn you for fucking around……..! Everything is your fault……..if you fought properly, I wouldn’t need to need to steal like this-----!”

Instantly, Guloss stopped his words.

That’s because he finally noticed the odd feeling visiting his body.

Hot.

A scorching heat could be felt on his right arm. More specifically, around his right elbow. The heat soon turned into pain and attacked Guloss.

He fearfully looked down and found out the identity of the odd feeling and tremendous pain.

Further up his right elbow, was gone.

It was completely gone along side with the sword he held.

“…..GuaaaAAHHHHH----!?”

In front of Guloss, who screamed out too late, was Gilfrain holding his right arm.

The lobbed off arm was still clenching ono the sword. It was dearly grabbing onto the sword bought from Aldebaran Company.

Gilfrain threw that right arm behind him like it was garbage.

“Gah……GuaAA….Wha-what did you----“

The head of Guloss’s who could only groan and nothing else – was eagle grabbed. Since the strength was too much, he could not move his body anymore.

Immediately, Guloss felt fear in the depths of his soul and trembled.

That’s because, Gilfrain, the strongest [Hero], was glaring at him in a demonic shape-----

“A warrior of Ifnatus, shouldn’t be using weapons damn it……….!”

The words of judgement and anger were spat out.

Those were Guloss’s last words heard in this world.

What was shown in Tooi’s eyes was the chief of the [Wings of crimson light] burning in crimson flames.

He was burning dazzling into deep black.

It was as if, it was symbolizing the scorching heat.

After the flames disappeared, Guloss’s body turned into ash and charcoal and crumbled. The only part of him that has maintained its shape was the right arm that was chopped off just now.

“………….”

No words could come out from Tooi.

He was standing stiff into place and stared dumbfounded at the Ifnatus man kill another Ifnatus man without any hesitation and mercy.

The man that killed him – Gilfrain walked over to him.

He was walking over naturally and was taking on a self-possessed attitude.

“……….I guess I made you go through some problems”

After he reached over to Tooi, Gilfrain quietly opened his mouth.

“When I felt the presence of a battlefield and came over………..i didn’t think I would see something that has this nasty aftertaste. The [Wings of crimson light]………I heard rumors that Guloss from the Hejenbelum house is acting as the boss but, to think that he was doing something this disgusting….Hah. How the warriors of Ifnatus have fallen”

Gentleness and anger was mixed inside the man’s eyes. What he’s looking at was the destroyed village houses and the unconscious people of the [Wings of crimson light] that Tooi defeated. Many people from Ifnatus could be found within them.

“Tooi. Give me fire”

Gilfrain put one cigarette onto his mouth and said that.

However – a slash immediately happened.

The cigarette in his mouth was sliced beautifully into half.

It was done by the swung great sword which Tooi manifested.

“…………Oi, what is this joke”

Gilfrain spit out the half cigarette and narrowed his eyes. Regardless if there is a giant sword a few centimeters from his face, he was not showing any signs of being surprised. He was just glaring at Tooi unpleasantly.

“………Why”

Having swung his great sword, Tooi asked him with a trembling voice.

“Why did you kill him?

“Arhhn? …..Ahh, you needed him for interrogation?”

“…..No”

“Then why? Guloss is someone that isn’t related to you”

“Yeah, that’s right. He isn’t related to me. I don’t care about what happens to that trash. I did not plan to kill him but, I didn’t plan to let him live either”

But, Tooi said.

As if to appeal to his opponent, he was howling from the depth of his heart.

“He is related to you right, Gilf”

“……………..”

“He is a member of Ifnatus. He is one of the tribe members that you are proud off and love more than anyone else. But even so, why did you have to lay your hands on him?”

“I said this yesterday already”

Gilfrain spat these words out without any hesitation.

“The Ifnatus that has lost its pride is no longer Ifnatus. It’s just that”

“………I see”

The same time Tooi nodded in depression, he gripped his sword harder. He crouched down with the great sword on his shoulder and entered battle stance like a wild beast.

There was burning fighting spirit in his eyes.

The presence gushing out from his body was completely different compared to the time when he fought with the [Wings of crimson light] just now. Incomparable overwhelming battle spirit was oozing out from his whole body. It was so thorny and ferocious that it could even be called killing intent or hatred.

Receiving that battle spirit, Gifrain made a bewildered expression but – he immediately distorted his mouth to a smile.

“Kuku…Hahaha. You just keep making no sense there, Tooi”

While saying that happily, Gilfrain placed his hand on his own bandaged right arm.

“You know, Tooi. I have wanted to fight with you at least once for the whole 10 years.

*Rustle* he unraveled his bandage with natural movements.

“But – it was an impossible wish. Unlike me, you don’t like to fight. You won’t pull your sword unless it’s for a goal. I tried pissing you off but…………I have no clue to why the aloof you got piss”

But even so, Gilfrain said.

“I never would have imagined that you would pick a fight with me. Is this a miracle?”

While making a happy face as if he could not hold in his joy, he threw away the unraveled bandage. An irregular crimson tattoo was carved on his exposed right arm.

Instantly- Gilfrain’s battle spirit burst up.

Both of their battle spirits clashed and caused violent sparks to scatter about.

“Hey, Tooi. What are you pissed about?”

“Who Knows?”

Tooi arrogantly spat this out.

“I just – don’t like you Gilfrain”

Chapter 6: Hero Vs Hero

Part 1

This was when Tooi Cross was still living as Kurosu Tooi.

This was when he a common high school student that can be found anywhere, and was living a mundane high school life.

Even he had a [Favorite Artist].

It’s not like he had interest in music and it’s not like was well-informed in the field. He does not know how to distinguish between a guitar and bass and it’s not like he was totally immersed in a particular group or band but, he had a regular interest in his [Favorite Artist].

Hearing it in a CommercialCM and after thinking it was kind of good, he got into watching the PV from video sites; he did not buy the CD but, he would get the best album from a rental shop then put it into his computer and hearing it in his player.

In words, that was all.

Even though it’s his [Favorite artist], it was at that level.

From the people that collect all the CDs and the people who are affiliated with a fan club with an annual fee, they might think that his love isn’t enough – but even so, it did not change the fact that Kuroso Tooi liked that artist.

In his own way, Tooi liked the music made by that artist.

And one day – The artist brought out a song with a completely new taste.

It was rock style until now, and many of them were really rhythmical songs but, the new song was completely ballad and was a quiet and gentle song.

In response to that song, these types of comments were raised between the fans.

“That’s so not ****”

“This isn’t ****”

“I want the music made like how it was before”

Naturally, other fans started raising their voices.

“Don’t go deciding how ***** does this”

“I want to support the new ****”

“I like this ****”

Cutting down this situation, it feels as if the ones showing their disapproval to the new songs are narrow-minded fans and the ones accepting it are the fans with deep love.

However- is that really the case?

It’s because they had strong love that they have times that they want to do the rejection.

There’s no way that being a fan that agrees without any restraints towards what the creation the Artist announces is correct.

If you don’t like it say you don’t like it, as a comment, and as a fan, this might be a way of love.

Kurosu Tooi thought that way.

Accepting everything is not love.

Maybe that’s why? He hated words like [I will love you forever] or [I will follow **** forever] that often comes from specific fans from artists.

---Forever?

---Even though you don’t know what kind of song will come from that artist in the future?

He knows that it’s like quibbling – but even so, blind and fanatic love felt dishonest and it was somehow disgusting for him.

This does not limit for only artists, this goes for authors, manga artists, comedians, sports athletes – and even significant others.

Loving someone regardless of how much small they reduce too, feels kind of off.

However----

“I just – don’t like you Gilfrain”

Tooi just hates the man in front of him and feels disgusted.

Tooi doesn’t even understand why he feels this much anger.

He just – could not bear forgiving this.

The Gilfrain who killed his own tribe members so easily.

The fact that the man that once loved his tribe more than anyone else, felt hatred and completely rejects the changes of his own tribe.

It’s because he loves that he feels hate.

If things changed then abandoning it is love.

Tooi understood Gilfrain viewpoints.

That is why – he must not acknowledge it.

“…….Kuku, this is nice, that’s one heck of a killing intent there, Tooi”

It won’t weird if a normal person faints when confronting Tooi’s killing intent when he is activating his [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] – Even though he was receiving that, Gilfrain laughed.

He then trusts his right arm forward.

It was Ifnatus’s characteristic arm with a crimson symbol carved on it.

“---Let’s do this, Pheonicia”

The space behind Gilfrain distorted and tremendous heat burst out at the same time.

What appeared there – was a giant bird with burning big wings.

The surrounding temperature increased due to the appearance of the bird covered in divine flames.

The immortal bird Pheonicia.

It’s a super high ranking fire Spirit and the battle Spirit passed down to the Ifnatus’s [Hero] every generation. It’s a legendary spirit bird said to have lived over thousands of years and it’s Spirit status does not lose to Deities.

Having summoned his contract Spirit, Gilfrain raised his right hand up to the sky.

Pheonicia then stopped on top of his arms as if it found a mistletoe.

Immediately, tremendous amounts of Ether and high heat gushed around.

The Spirit with crimson wings disappeared and Gilfrain’s arm changed color to black red at the same time. It was burnt up as if he sacrificed one of his limbs.

This is the Ifnatus Village secret spell that is passed down every generation.

The [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment] normally requires a weapon to act as a medium but, since they don’t use weapons, they would directly let the Spirit possess one of their limbs. Symbols will be carved onto their arms at a young age and this is a feat only possible by Ifnatus warriors who have put in a long time of special training as if to burn their body.

It has more power than a normal [Ray AlmaSpirit Equipment], the risk is high. In replacement for not using a medium, the burden on their body is large and every of Ifnatus warrior have short lives.

They would not use weapons at all and would literally burn their lives in battle.

That’s is Ifnatus’s honor and pride.

That way of thinking might be prone to being called anachronism and having that viewpoint exterminated might in a sense be inevitable.

“---[EscarlataScarlet flames]”

Abnormal amount of heat and killing intent gushed out from Gilfrain. It was so hot that Tooi might get vaporized if he got recklessly got closer.

There are creaks running everywhere on his black right arm and burning hot flames peaks out from the gaps. Since tremendous heat is closed inside that right arm, it as if lava was at the edge of bursting out from the gaps of the rock.

That black crimson right arm is Ifnatus’s secret spell, and also their pride.

He trusts out that arm and made a fearless smile.

“Well, let’s bring on the celebration, Tooi Cross. This will be one heck of a war”

Immediately after, Gilfrain dashed and faced Tooi straight on.

Hero and hero, a meaningless battle that happened in an unexpected way, began.

Alua immediately returned back to the village after finishing evacuating the people to a safe spot.

She was worried about Tooi – not exactly.

Regarding the fight, honestly speaking she was not worried at all.

Having beaten down 2000 Lectar soldiers hands down, there’s no way Tooi Cross would fall behind some rebellion. Regardless if the enemy possesses Zesca Aldebaran’s weapons, they are not the enemy of the legendary Deity knight that has Zodiac which is equal – no, a weapon in a higher class.

Also, since Ryura and Zesca joined the team, there’s no way Tooi would lose no matter how much he thinks about it. It wouldn’t even be a tough battle.

That’s why the reason why Alua is rushing back to the village is simple for her own gain instead of worrying about Tooi. Regarding the treatment – the arrest and questioning of the defeated [Wings of crimson light], the military officer Alua is more knowledgeable in that field than Tooi.

In other words, this is one of her few chances to have a role.

I will not miss this!

That’s why Alua hurried back to the village but----

“Wha…What is this…….!?”

She felt 2 unordinary presences when she got back to the village entrance.

A solemn wave and burning heat.

Both great force is conflicting each other and violently clashing.

She knows that one of them is Tooi Cross.

But, who is the other person?

Who is this person that is displaying a power equal to Tooi Cross---

“…..What-what is happening……..?”

“It’s Gilfrain”

Ryura who was given the role to defend the village and the villagers like Alua was the one that answer the question. With gentle yes, she was looking towards the clash of the 2 powers.

“Gi-Gilfrain…….!? When you said Gilfrain, you mean THE Gilfrain!?”

Ifnatus’s [Hero].

The person that made [Tyrant Slayer] Tooi Cross say [He might have been the one who would have defeated the [Demon King], if It weren’t me]

“Wh-why…….why is that person here……..forget that, why is he fighting Tooi Onii-chan!? Don’t tell me, he got attacked!?”

“You’re mistaken. Apparently – Tooi was the one who picked a fight with him”

Tooi started it?

Ryura plainly told Alua who was having trouble understanding.

“This is a rare occasion; it looks like Tooi is angry”

“Angry?”

“No……rather than angry, I think it’s correct to say that he’s irritated”

Ryura placed her hand on her chest and said this.

“Since I am in contract state, Tooi’s emotions are also told to me. It’s just a little though. Tooi is currently……really irritated. Apparently Gilfrain’s way of life is overlapping with his own and he is desperately struggling against it”

“Eh……..? Wh-what do you mean?”

“Tooi most likely wants to accept things that have changed. The power to reject change, and the weakness to not accept change………..he’s trying to found out which is correct inside his mind”

After mumbling and agreeing to herself, Ryura took a step forward.

“Ryura-san…………”

“My master wishes to fight. I must hasten to join in”

Leaving that sentence, the Deity of [Violent Wind] turned into the wind and vanished.

Left alone, Alua could only feel the battle of another dimension from far away.

The swung down great sword and trust out right arm clashed and a sword to sword locking situation occurred. Expressing [Sword to sword locking] when it’s a sword clashing against an arm might be a mistake in the first place.

Both of their powers rivals each other.

Tooi could not push forwards no matter how much strength her pours in. Forget that, he feels as if he’s going to get pushed back if he relaxes even by a little.

Their strengths are almost equal in comparison.

But, Tooi was suffering not only from the opponent’s power, but also from that abnormal heat.

Gilfrain’s [EscarlataScarlet flames] allows him to be covered in ultra-high heat that can vaporize everything he touches. Tooi was able to endure it thanks to the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] but, his stamina is getting exhausted in close distance.

Tooi purposely undo his swordsmanship and took distance from his opponent to switch his posture.

Several streams of sweat were drooping down his forehead.

(…….Strong)

Tooi could grasp his opponent’s strength level just by one sword clash.

Gilfrain is on a different level compared to 10 years ago.

Of course for physical abilities like muscle strength and reach, the heat emitted out from his right arm could not even be compared to what he had 10 years ago. Just how many battlefields did he experience to reach this realm.

The genius boy from 10 years ago did not drown in his own talent; he continued working hard in his training and has grown into a prideful and strong warrior.

(That Gilf, he became so powerful that it’s impossible to believe that it took 10 years……..)

“What is this, Tooi. Did you……..get weaker?”

A completely opposite version of Tooi’s impression came out from Gilfrain’s mouth.

His voice was oozing with slight scorn and mostly disappointment.

“Well, I guess this is it since the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] isn’t gathered………if possible, I wanted to fight you at full power but……..i guess I can’t ask for luxury!”

The same time Gilfrain finished his sentence, he kicked the ground with those explosive leg strength. His aloft right arm was covered with strong flames and had the heat strong enough to burn down space.

“[EscudoGrand Shield]”

A giant silver shield which is as big as Tooi’s height appeared in front of him. The heavy tank’s charge was blocked by the shield – was what he saw though.

“Raaaaaaaaa!”

The shield was easily destroyed by Gilfrain’s right arm. The shield which was faithfully recreated like the shield that Zesca Aldebaran once created, was easily destroyed like it was paper.

However – that was the result Tooi aimed for.

Even though it was faithfully recreated, the shield that was created only had its [Appearance] faithfully made and is just a papier-mache that has almost no Ether poured into it.

His goal was to create a giant lance and hide his figure even if it’s for an instant.

“[LanzaLance]”

When Gilfrain destroyed the shield, Tooi took a big step behind to make distance from the opponent. He instantly then manifested lances – and threw them.

The fired lances sliced through the wind. Without waiting for it to land, Tooi continued creating more lances and threw the lances while moving around in an arc to corner his opponent.

Countless lances approached Gilfrain.

It was an all-direction attack and not possible to dodge – but.

“Hah. How would that work seriously”

Together with an insult, Gilfrain violently increased the flames burning out from his body.

The lances that Tooi threw, instantly melted when it touched those flames. All the lances were melted down by the flames covering him and did not hit their target.

(…….It seriously is an annoying skill)

The armor of flames covering an Ifnatus warrior is a terrifying technique that takes on the role of attack and defense. The gushing ultra-high temperature will burn down every half-hearted attacks.

Nonetheless – not every Ifnatus warriors can put out this crazy out power. It’s because that Gilfrain is doing it that it displays this level of effect.

(What a messed up defense……what’s more)

And the most annoying part about it – is that, his entire abnormal defense is simple just a side effect.

The flames burning out from his body are all caused by side effects.

It’s just high heat leaking out from the right arm that is closing in that abnormal amount of heat.

Gilfrain’s [EscarlataScarlet flames] real worth is in its tremendous attack power.

“!? [EscudoGrand Shield]”

After Tooi immediately refined the shield, a tremendous impact came from behind. Having closed in the gaps with one step, Gilfrain slammed him with his right arm acting as a claw.

“Shield again huh. What an uncreative fellow”

“……….though, I am still stopping you am I right?”

Just like Tooi said, the attack from his right arm was halted by the manifested shield. Unlike just now, this is a shield refined and created with the highest level of Ether. What’s more, this is a shield Zesca made specializing in fire endurance. Even if it’s Gilfrain, there’s no way it would break with just one hit – but.

“It’s a matter of time”

The weight of the opponent’s attack increased. Tooi’s legs got pushed deep into the ground. The burden on his arm supporting the shield turned bigger – and worse of all, the burden on the shield itself was abnormal.

The flames wrapping his arm were slowly melting the shield. Even the shield made by Zesca to block fire attacks, was not able to block Gilfrain’s flames.

After a few seconds, a hole finally opened in the shield.

It was not done by Gilfrain’s right arm instead; it was from the trusting sword that Tooi manifested in his other hand.

“Uh!”

Seeing that it was a matter of time that the shield would get destroyed, he immediately made the next move. Using the shield as the blind, he launched a trust to penetrate the shield with his own sword.

“-------uh”

The attack that was completely from a blind spot was not predicted even by Gilfrain as expected but, he dodged this with his super reflex. The trust only slightly cut his opponent’s shirt.

Gilfrain took a step back to make distance but – Tooi closed in the gaps this time. He did not let go of the small chance his opponent let happen.

Dual blades, axe, sickle, lance…….he created weapons one after another and attacked Gilfrain.

Controlling those 1st class weapons with fluent techniques, he continuously launched attacks towards vital points but he could not corner down his opponent.

Gilfrain has the reflex and movements of a wild beast and thus he continuously dodged it with paper thin difference. Unless it’s an attack from a blind spot like before, there’s no way a master warrior like him would be vulnerable.

Adding on, the weapons losses its refined state after a few hits because of the rising flames.

(……….As expected, Zesca is a terrible compatibility with Gilf as the opponent. If Anna or Yuu were here, things might be smoother though…….)

Tooi started to think about what he does not have by reflex but – Gilfrain did not miss seeing him having a useless thought for an instant.

“---Guh”

A heavy and sharp kick trusts towards Tooi’s stomach. The power isn’t as strong as the right arm but, the kick that was performed from a trained body had the power to launch a human a few meters away.

The moment he was about to slam onto the ground, a gentle wind passed the battlefield. The countless winds bundled up and gently caught Tooi.

“Tooi!”

A voice that cares for her master dearly from her heart.

Before he noticed, Ryura was standing beside Tooi.

“………..I was waiting for this”

Tooi trust his right arm forward and poured power into Zodiac.

She probably guessed that this was a crisis, Ryura quietly nodded before vanishing to possess the black short sword.

“[Combiar TelaChange Equipment]”

Pale Ether light swirled around Tooi.

Instantly, the warrior in black armor and great sword changed his appearance to a knight wearing white armor and covered in a tornado.

From [Henerar ArroganciaPride of the Weapon Empress] to [Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind].

With 2 Deities dwelling inside the Zodiac, he is able to instantly change to each of their respective [Dues Alma].

Of course, the more Deities inside the Zodiac would cause higher burden and thus more burden towards Tooi.

For example, Zodiac was destroyed when he defeated the Demon king but, it was not caused from external interference but rather it was the result of having too many Deities dwelling inside.

“Hee. The 2nd one huh”

Gilfrain distorted his mouth in joy while looking at Tooi who activated [Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind].

“I don’t know how many you have but……this is good, do whatever you can Tooi. Show me more of your-----!?“

Gilfrain was leisurely saying that but his expression was clouded by a weird feeling.

It’s because the flames coming out from his body suddenly turned weaker.

It wasn’t only the strong flames covering his body. The flickering flames burning the village houses, grasses and trees that suffered the fire sparks done by his technique, was suddenly extinguished.

“………..I see”

“Better don’t talk, Gilf”

Tooi said that while pointing that splendor sword towards his opponent.

“You will lose precious oxygen if you do”

[Tempesta SancionThe Sanction of the Violent Wind] allows him to use the power to freely control the wind.

Of course for the flow of the atmosphere, he is able to freely control the density too.

Flames or combustion is a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide, radiation and heat.

It’s impossible for flames to burn if there is no oxygen.

The flames created using the Spirit’s powers are the manifestation of Ether and it directly does not need oxygen but – Gilfrain uses the flames of his Spirit as coal to gains explosive firepower by absorbing the surrounding oxygen.

Which means, his firepower will take a huge drop if there is no oxygen.

First off, it’s impossible to block Tooi’s attack in that state. If he does not do anything, he would suffocate to death within 10 minutes.

“Sorry that it’s an underhanded trick but, you won’t call this cowardly right?”

“…….Cowardly? Kukuh, I won’t say that. There is nothing cowardly in a fight”

Gilf smiled.

He did that while exhaling the remaining oxygen inside his body.

Even though an oxygenless area would drive a fire user like him to a corner but, his expression only showed joy as if he was having fun with this critical situation.

“It’s true that my strength is halved if there isn’t oxygen………no, it’s probably a fourth of my power. I will suffocate if I don’t do anything. Even if I try to run away, I can’t see how big you made the oxygenless space”

But, Gilfrain said.

He did that at the same time he kicked the ground with superhuman leg power.

“---But I know that there’s oxygen here right?”

The destination that he charged towards to in the speed of sound – was around Tooi.

It was further in than Tooi’s sword distance.

“Damn-----“

Since he was caught off guard, his reaction turned out late.

There was oxygen around Tooi for him to breathe. Within the area which he made deprived of oxygen, he stored oxygen only around him like a gas cylinder.

In order to force Gilfrain into a low oxygen situation, Tooi thought that he needed to inhale perfect amounts of oxygen to allow him to move normally but – apparently, that was a terrible mistake.

His reading was completely off.

He failed to read the craziness of the man known as Gilfrain.

“Okay – Let’s see who is sturdier?”

He swung his right hand at his face.

Even though it was an oxygenless area, Gilfrain was still keeping his right hand on fire the whole time. However, no matter how much strength he pours in, he is unable to increase the flames without large amounts of oxygen and was in a weak flame spark form.

What would happen if the right hand that is in half-combustion state, enters a gas chamber filled with large amount of oxygen?

The answer is obvious as day.

*BOOM*!

The moment it touched the oxygen, an explosion occurred.

Back draft phenomenon – after a fire outbreak happens in a closed space, the flames will then get weaken and end up in an incomplete combustion state because of the lack of oxygen, then after large amounts of oxygen flows in from either the door or window, the active carbon dioxide and oxygen will immediately react to each other and cause a huge explosion.

The explosion that occurred here is extremely similar to that phenomenon.

Having taken on an explosion in a very close distance, both of them were blown away.

Tooi crashed to the ground while Gilfrain slammed into a half-destroyed village house.

“…….Damn, this, shit. You plan……..to have a double suicide with me huh”

While saying that as if he was spitting it out, Tooi raised his body.

His damage was huge and his burnt skin stands out. If he did not put on his [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment], he would be dead.

“…….Kukuh. Hahaha. There’s no way we would die from something like this. This goes for me and you too”

The half-destroyed village house burned up in flames and Gilfrain appearance from inside. The oxygenless area was erased because of the impact form the explosion.

The wounds on Gilfrain stood out too. He has high heat endurance since he is a fire user but, a close range explosion still caused big damage on him too.

But even so, Gilfrain still smiled.

It’s as if he was saying that having both of them close to death was what he desires.

“Looks like you are having fun, Gilf”

“Yeah, very”

In response to Tooi’s irony, Gilfrain calmly nodded.

“Aren’t you enjoying this? Tooi”

“There’s no way I am enjoying this. I was about to die after all”

“……Fuun”

After making a meaningful nod, Gilfrain moved. He lowered his posture like a 4 legged beast and charged in like an animal.

Tooi immediately controlled the wind. He can’t use the oxygenless area anymore. It’s a trick that is only effective because of how surprising it is. Since he requires high concentration to adjust the oxygen density, his opponent will definitely defend it if he tries to do it one more time.

Tooi tried countering back with tornado or kamaitachi but, he was unable to capture Gilfrain’s unrestrained movements and ended up letting him get close again.

An intense attack came from his right arm. Tooi prepared his sword and somehow managed to block it.

“Kuh…………”

When Tooi was groaning from the fire power and the weight of the attack, Gilfrain told him this across his blade.

“Don’t lie”

“………..Eh?”

“You’re actually enjoying this right? Enjoying about the fact that we are trying to kill each other like this?”

With eyes as if he saw through everything, Gilfrain started talking.

“Your nature is the same as mine. No matter how many arguments and impertinent excuse you line up, you wish for battles from the depths of your heart. If not, you wouldn’t have become this strong”

“……………..”

“I thought this 10 years ago, Tooi. You belong to this side. You are a badger from the same hole as me. That’s why, I go well with you, that’s why I was able to leave my back to you and fight. KuKuh. There’s no one in the Ifnatus Village that I acknowledge as much as you. There’s no one that is immersed in a fight as much as me”

“………………”

“Admit it, Tooi. You are the same as me”

“……..Yeah”

Tooi nodded.

At the same time, he used his whole power to divert the right arm away. The same time Tooi flicked Gilfrain’s right arm away through brute force; he created a condensed tornado in his hand and slammed it at the opponent’s stomach.

Having taken a small disaster to the body, his body rotated while getting blown away.

“---[Combiar TelaChange Equipment]”

Tooi changed his [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] again and closed in the distance without giving time for Gilfrain to regain his posture after he was blown away. The same time he was covered in black armor, he created countless swords behind him.

If an example is needed, then it’s a wing of swords.

He took one sword from his back and used all his strength to slash. Even though it was blocked by his right arm, even if it’s melted down by the flames covering his body, he continued slashing without caring.

Once the sword’s loses its cutting edge, he immediately extends his hands to the next sword.

Tooi performed that chain with both his hands – and what’s more, it’s done in a fluent and tremendously fast speed.

It’s a battle of numbers by using brute force.

There’s no plan or clever scheme, it’s a foolish plan of just forcefully pushing through.

Despite that, he was gradually cornering his opponent.

Even though Tooi’s expression was terrifying – it looked somewhat like a smile.

“It’s fun, Gilfrain”

In the battlefield, in a battle with his life on the line, while performing chaotic attacks in god speed, Tooi murmured.

“Fighting someone as strong as you is really fun. It makes me actually feel the crazy power that I have. Able to freely use a power that can destroy the landscape with one swing…….is so fun that nothing can replace it”

A small smile oozed out from the edge of his mouth.

“Knowing that I am strong………….and trying to know how much stronger I get, is so fun that it’s laughable”

“…….Kuku, hahahaha, am I right? Then ----“

“But, I am different from you, Gilfrain”

Tooi strongly said his words.

“It’s so fun becoming stronger – and I am desperately fighting that feeling”

“Aarh?”

“If I relax, I will get a heck stronger and might end up in a dangerous realm. In order to not seek for power than what I need, I have to be careful. I might look like this but I am having a tough time inside me you know? Restraining my own desire is tough”

“………….What are you saying? You’re not making any sense”

“It means that I am not acknowledging you, Gilfrain”

Tooi manifested a remarkably huge great sword before saying.

“I won’t become a battle maniac like you, and I won’t abandon my precious things just because it changed a little!”

Tooi’s point was very unique.

It’s probably a difficult to understand viewpoint for most of the humans.

But – there was one person here that had her heart moved by his words.

(Aah, I see)

Zesca Aldebaran.

Inside Zodiac, even when she has become the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] by combining with Tooi, she was still listening to his words.

(I finally understand, Tooi. The real reason why you stopped becoming stronger 10 years ago)

It’s because he gained a power enough to defeat the [Demon King].

She thought that this was everything about it. She was so disappointed that seeking [Power] was simply a method to him, and did not want to acknowledge that.

(But – I was wrong. You were desperately fighting it)

Tooi probably understood it.

About his own [Weakness] and how [Dangerous] he was.

His [Weakness] that might cause him to drown in a great power once he obtains it.

His [Dangerous] self that would use any crazy methods to achieve his goal.

It’s because he understand that he was like that, that he desperately regulated himself.

Throwing away his unlimited potential to become powerful, in order to prevent himself from drowning in power, he did not seek for power that he does not need.

(Strength to not become stronger huh……….Fuun. that’s one strength that I would never think off. No, I am not the only one. It’s probably a viewpoint that is hard to understand to all the people in this world)

Zesca made an astonished yet gentle smile.

(You are an interesting man to the point of humor, Tooi Cross”

Her master can only be this man.

At this very moment, Zesca Aldebaran thought that in her heart.

The war between heroes continued while making the nearby area into scorched land.

Both their powers rival each other as expected.

Tooi, who is has unlimited supply of weapons and the power to use the inexhaustible air, and Gilfrain who violently swings his super firepower that is similar to hell.

Their fight was fiercely intense but – the conclusion happened unexpectedly earlier.

Since both of them ignored defense and was solely focused on attacks to defeat their opponent, both of them lost their stamina at a fast rate and that soon led to,

“----It’s over, Tooi”

Unable to block Gilfrain’s right arm, Zodiac ended getting flicked away.

The black short sword spun up in the sky and was sent flying to quite a far spot.

Since the foundation of the medium has been flung away, the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] was forcefully made to release. Tooi returned back to his jersey appearance, while Ryura and Zesca jumped out from Zodiac.

“Damn it”

Tooi immediately wanted to head over to retrieve Zodiac but, Gilfrain did not allow him to do so. He proudly stood there to block his path.

While sitting on the ground, Tooi clicked his tongue in detest.

“Well, it wasn’t a bad fight. If possible, I wanted to do it when you are at your prime though”

He sounded as if he was carefree but, he is just like like Tooi and is suitable for the word of “Wounds covering his whole body. It was a close battle where it wouldn’t be weird if either side won but, Gilfrain was the one who controlled this battle.

“Tooi”

“----Woah there. Don’t move”

Ryura and Zesca immediately raised their voice over from the place where Zodaic flew to but, Gilfrain stopped them with words.

“Relax. I won’t kill you”

Afterwards, to show that he wasn’t lying, Gilfrain deactivated [EscarlataScarlet flames]. The flames covering him disappeared and his black right arm returned back to normal.

“There’s no need to kill you after all. I won. Just that is enough”

He looked down at Tooi with a satisfied face.

“Rather, I still have no clue towhy you got so pissed. Oh well, it’s not like cared”

While his body was covered in wounds, Gilfrain said that with a refreshing voice. Tooi, who was sitting on the ground, started backing off while his butt was still on the ground.

“Hnn? Oi oi, what is this. Why are you so scared? I won’t do anything anymore”

However, Tooi did not stop backing off.

“……..What are you planning?”

“Nothing. It’s just that – it’s a little off”

“Off?”

In response to Gilfrain who frowned his eyebrows in doubt, Tooi said that with a gentle voice.

“Looks like the point is slightly off target. It would be dangerous if I stayed so, I thought of backing off a little” “……….What are you------!?”

Gilfrain wanted to follow Tooi who was backing off so he bent his body forward but – immediately, he pulled back his head in panic.

It was at that moment.

A sword fell from the sky like a meteor.

The swords that fell with tremendous speed, pierced the ground in front of Tooi who was sitting on the ground. Gilfrain was all most skewered when he bent over forward but, he dodged it with a paper thin difference. A few strands of his white hair were cut off.

“Oi oi, what’s going on here……….Didn’t your [Dues Alma] deactivate………..”

“I don’t think you have the time to glare at me you know?”

In response to his doubtful and angry gaze, Tooi raised one finger and pointed at the sky.

At that moment, another sword fell from the sky again.

There weren’t only swords; there were lances, pikes, bows and arrows too.

A rain of weapons were heading towards Gilfrain who backed off to fix his posture and was pouring down as if they were aiming right at him. Even though he dodged the weapons with excellent reflexes, more weapons were heading towards where he ran off to.

As if every of his movements were all predicted.

“Gilfrain. You might hate this since you like pure strength comparison but………..Not picking my methods like this, is my way”

All of this was Tooi’s plan.

The offense, defense, and even Zodiac getting flicked away was part of his plans.

If the weapon that acts as the medium leaves his hands, he would be unable to maintain the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] and would forcefully deactivate. If his weapon is gone, Gilfrain will definitely undo his [EscarlataScarlet flames].

Maintaining [EscarlataScarlet flames] for long periods of time is tough even for the [Hero]

That’s why, Tooi purposely undo the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] and made his opponent lower his guard by acting getting cornerd.

All of this was to make his opponent release [EscarlataScarlet flames] which acts as his defense and offense.

Of course, when the [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] is released, he is unable to create more weapons an all the weapons he created would all reset.

But, there are other weapons in this battlefield other than the weapons he created with [Henerar ArroganciaPride of the Weapon Empress].

They were the weapons Aldebaran Company sold to the [Wings of crimson light]

Now that the [Wings of Crimson light] was beaten down by Tooi, he moved all their weapons to the sky. There were many of them broken but, there were also weapons that were undamaged and still maintaining their shape.

Within the battle with Gilfrain, he moved those weapons up to the sky without his opponent noticing. He quietly moved them with Ryura’s power and then set them there.

It’s at a very high spot where it won’t be noticed very easily.

It was a giant trap he set up in the sky.

What’s left was to let go of Zodiac and disperse the wind he used to fix them in place and let the weapons fall due to gravity.

The landing target was already calculated.

Even if it’s Ifnatus’s [Hero], he wouldn’t come out safe if he takes on Zesca’s weapons which fell down with tremendous speed when he isn’t activating [EscarlataScarlet flames].

He might have dodged the first attack with his wild instincts but, Gilfrain is unable to use simple dodges on this unpredicted situation – whenever he moves somewhere, it would always end up to a spot that Tooi has already predicted.

More weapons showered down to where he dodged to.

It was like a rain, or a meteor shower.

“……..Are you kidding me”

After all the weapons he set up in the sky fell down, Tooi murmured in wonder.

“I thought it would be over with this though………..”

What he’s looking at – was Gilfrain who finished handling all the weapons. Unwounded – he was not. As expected, it was impossible to fully dodge the rain of weapons and his whole body was covered in wounds.

However, the [Hero] has yet to fall to his knees and was glaring over here.

“……….Haha. Not bad there. It’s a petty trick suitable for you”

“Don’t call it cowardly. There’s nothing cowardly in a killing match”

“I won’t say that. Aaaah, I lowered my guard”

“You did not [Lowered your guard]. I made you [Lower your guard]”

They glared at each other and threw retorts.

Gilfrain was smiling but, violent emotions were burning inside his eyes.

“…………I wasn’t planning on killing you but, I can’t hold back myself anymore now that it got so interesting”

He prepared his right arm again.

The Ifnatus right arm which is the worst weapon.

“Now that it came to this, let’s bring on the celebration, Tooi Cross”

“Bring it on. No hard feelings. Gilfrain Dulk Lana Merjedra Ifnis”

Tooi stood up again and took Zodiac in his hands again. Both sides were exhausted and any further fight will literally lead to a death match.

But they did not stop.

While understanding that this was a meaningless private fight, they were about to clash until it becomes a death match.

Even they don’t understand why they were going so far.

Maybe it’s because that fighting is fun, or they don’t like each other.

Or – They were rejecting the opponent in front of them or they can’t agree with themselves.

Unclear to each of their real motives, the heroes made their stances to prepare to throw themselves into a violent battle again – but their battle met it’s end with an unexpected turn of events.

“----Okay. Stop stop. Please stop this already, seriously”

A spiritless woman’s voice appeared from somewhere.

A small shadow suddenly interfered in their battlefield.

The moment Tooi was about to activate his [Deus AlmaDeity Equipment] with the short sword that has Ryura and Zesca dwelling inside, and Gilfrain was about to activate [EscarlataScarlet flames]at the same time,

His right arm was sealed with a black cloth.

As if to cover his crimson tattoo, a smooth cloth wrapped his right arm and sealed its movements.

“You stupid leader. Calm down, please I beg you”

“Mehina…….What are you doing”

“That’s my line. Everyone was desperately trying to find you after you disappeared, you know? When I thought I felt leader’s presence and wondered what you were doing………..I wouldn’t have imagined that you were in a serious killing match”

The person called Mehina is a small girl. There’s a hood over her head and her mouth was covered with a cloth. Her eyes were the only parts visible on her face but since her voice was young and high-toned, it can be inferred that she’s female.

With his movement’s sealed, Gilfrain glared at Mehina in anger.

“Oi, Mehina. Take this off now”

“No”

“I’ll kill you?”

“No use trying to threaten me you know. You’re so exhausted that you can’t use force to peel off my [Cloth] right? To think that the leader would be so weakened………..you were fighting one heck of a dude huh”

While saying that plainly, Mehina controlled the black cloth on her hands. As if it has its own will, the cloth squirmed around and instantly wrapped Gilfrain’s body.

“You bitch….Don’t fuck with me Mehina! Let me fight, I am going to kill Mghhff!”

When his limbs were sealed and his mouth was noisy, his mouth was finally covered with a mouth gag.

Having completely captured Gilfrain, Mehina easily burdened her shoulders with that black chunk of meat. She then looked over to Tooi and,

“Hi”

She politely lowered her head.

“A-ahh, hi”

“I don’t know you are but, our stupid leader has caused you great troubles. I will take responsibility and take him home so, please forgive us”

“Okay……..?”

With an indescribable expression, Tooi made an ambiguous smile. He could not completely swallow the sudden change in development but there was no time for him to understand because Mehina took Gilfrain and left the place.

He was left alone in the battlefield which was supposed to be a zone for a death match.

“……..Should I follow?”

No.

Should he be relieved that he was spared?

Should he be disappointed that he could not defeat him?

He could not sort out his emotions but, the only thing that’s certain is that there’s the feeling of [Lost interest] inside him.

When he was standing there blank; from behind,

“…………….Tooi Onii-chan”

A voice called out to him. When he turned over, Alua was running over to him. Because Gilfrain’s presence was gone, she probably judged that it was safe.

“Tooi Onii-chan, are you okay?”

“Yeah. Alua-chan how about you, are you okay? You’re not injured right?”

“I am okay! And well….what about Gilfrain…….?”

“Uuun. I don’t really get it but, the woman that suddenly appeared, took him and went somewhere right? That’s most likely Gilfrain’s acquaintance”

“Acquaintance…….So that means that, she’s Gilfrain’s comrade?”

“Most likely. She called him leader after all……….”

Gilfrain might have created some kind of organization. The details were unclear but, he wouldn’t be called [Leader] if it weren’t that case.

After abandoning Ifnatus village and gone missing, he was probably doing something within the time when he was not out in the public.

The girl called Mehina said [Everyone was trying to find Gilfrain]. The [Everyone] she’s referring to, was probably his comrades.

Gilfrain’s current comrades.

The new comrades made by the [Hero] that abandoned his village----

“Alua-chan”

Tooi suddenly mumbled.

“I promise you”

“Eh……Promise what?”

“In the future, if I continue the journey to reestablish my contracts with the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses], I might encounter someone that has changed. Within the Deities that I loved 10 years ago, I might find someone that has turned into a stranger”

But, Tooi said.

“I won’t abandon them. I won’t throw them away because of the reason that they [Changed]. They are my benefactors so no matter how much the [Nebulosa12 Goddesses] changes I will definitely accept them”

It was an oath.

It’s an oath he made for himself, and it’s a viewpoint that is in conflict with the viewpoint belonging to the [Hero] of the destroyed village.

The Reunion With Twelve Fascinating Goddesses:Volume 2 Chapter 7

Epilogue

“……I’ll kill you. I am seriously going to kill you, Mehina”

“Ahhhh, no more. Please stop with the grumbling already. How unmanly”

“I’ll say this, I would have won if it continued”

“I heard that many times already, I get it”

“You, aren’t you a little arrogant just because you captured me? I was fully covered in wounds and what’s more I wasn’t using my [EscarlataScarlet flames] so I was just barely restrained, get it?”

“It sounds like an excuse if you say it you know?”

Deep inside an empty forest.

An unhappy Gilfrain and low tension Mehina was walking inside.

“But you know…….It’s a shocker. When I thought just what kind of person cornered you that far, to think that it would be the legendary [Tyrant Slayer]. Just who did you think you were picking a fight with?”

“He was the one that picked the fight”

“Stop with the lies already”

Maybe because of his daily conducts, Gilfrain was not trusted at all.

“Anyway, please don’t throw your life away from something boring. You’re a hopeless idiot but, you’re still our leader”

Mehina then said it with a slightly stronger tone.

“You’re making it right? Your country. A new Ifnatus where real warriors can live”

Gilfrain did not answer her words.

He was only making a quiet and strong smile.

“……..so, Mehina. Where are we heading? This isn’t the way to the hideout”

“Ahh, actually, we have a visitor”

“Visitor? For me?”

“It’s for you. That’s why we were desperately trying to find you. Leader’s wanderlust did not start recently so, Cruzer-san and Reino told me to leave you alone but……….Since that big guest came, we just had to make leader join the meeting as expected”

Through Mehina guidance, they soon reached a slightly opened space.

Someone was standing at the peaceful space which was being filled with sunlight through the trees.

It has silky black hair and a red outfit. It also has a peerless beauty which is impossible to distinguish whether it belongs to a female or male.

“So you’re Gilfrain Dulk Lana Merjedra Ifnis”

That person said that plainly.

“I am Ilum Elta Sirius”

“………..uh”

Gilfrain widen his eyes.

It’s because an unexpected name came up.

The Deity of [Celestial Poles] – Ilum Elta Sirius.

One of the 21 Deities and the existence that sits on the top of the fire Spirits.

“I’ll cut right down the chase, Gilfrain – make a contract with me”

Ilum said that”

“Make me smile”

“………Hah, bring it on”

Gilfrain laughed.

“Let’s bring on the celebration to this crazy encounter”

And thus, the nomad Deity encountered a prideful warrior as if it was led towards him.

With the power equal to a Deity knight even without making a contract with a Deity, just how much stronger will the warrior becomes once he gains the power of a Deity. No one had the means to find out at that time.

The center of the Imperial Capital Arcul – The Imperial palace Arunbelta.

The structure of the building which is adjoin to the military’s HQ, was built luxuriously and impressively as if to symbolize the prosperity of the royal family.

“I’m coming in Astartot”

A female entered into one of the room in the Imperial palace without knocking. Within the imperial palace where only the royal family is allowed to live, this is the room of the only person that isn’t part of the royal family.

Forget that, the person living in the room wasn’t even a person from Arludea Empire.

Even though he is a suspicious wanderer, he received favors from the 1st princess because of his exceptional intellect and is an heretic that was given the title [Tactician] ----

“At least knock, Princess Helmia”

The young man with narrow eyes sitting over at his desk –Astarot annoyingly opened his mouth while looking over to the door.

“Oh how noisy. You’re living here thanks to me you know? Then please don’t complain if I barge in whenever I feel like it”

The person that said those arrogant words was the 1st princess of Arludea Empire, Helmia Noct Ardeus.

It was a slender and tall female in a glamorous outfit. She will be 19 this year. She has a gorgeous appearance to show that she’s in between the line of beautiful woman and beautiful girl.

“Same as usual I see, Ms Princess”

After Helmia showed the rudeness unsuitable for a princess and the arrogance of a princess, Astarot lightly shrugged his shoulders. Helmia’s attitude is the definition of arrogance but, his untimid way of talking to the princess is quite something itself.

“What are you doing closing yourself indoors in the afternoon, Astarot?”

“I am writing. I am a popular author after all so; it’s tough being chased by the deadline”

“Writing……? Aah, that disgusting novel”

“So rude”

“It’s disgusting right? Making Tooi Cross a woman, there should be a limit to how disgusting it can be. The world must have gone stupid for something like that to be selling”

“Ms Princess feels that way because you met Tooi Cross before. From the public eye, he’s a hero above the clouds. Even in the hometown that I came from, there are often works with great people turned into females”

“It’s a country where disgusting men lives in huh”

Astatrot made a light smile and did not particularly reply back to Helmia who said that as if she was scorning him.

“So Princess Helmia? What is your business? If you don’t have any business then I would like to return back to my writing okay?”

“Apparently the [Wings of Crimson light] was disbanded”

Helmia said.

“It’s an intel from the messenger sent to the north so it’s correct. Incidentally, Aldebaran Company is gone too. Zesca Aldebaran has announced that she would pull her hands away from business”

“Aah, I see”

“Don’t “Aah I see” me. What’s with the attitude as if you don’t care?”

“It’s a conclusion that I predicted after all. Someone like Tooi Cross would probably accomplish as much. That hero won’t fall on his 2nd Deity”

“…………..Astarot. Do you know the situation here? This matter will be going into Laila Schut’s accomplishments you know. We can’t let her do what she wants any longer”

“You don’t have to be jealous because your enemy has a giant breast”

“You’re wrong you idiot! ………You understand right? That woman is quite the ambitious one. She’s vigilantly waiting for the chance to bite the country’s core. I will not allow her to do that. The person that would stand on the top of the military and change this country-----“

With a heated gaze, Helmia looked over to the man in front of her.

“----Astarot. That would be you”

“Oh goodness. I am given an exaggerated anticipation huh. Even from before, I was always anticipated by others. Even though I don’t really care, I was always made to stand on the big stage before I knew it. Aah, what a hassle. Even though I just want to live a peaceful life, the talents sleeping inside me just won’t allow me to do so………”

While mumbling alone, Astarot took out his note from his military uniform.

After sliding his fingers on the opened note, Helmia asked him in doubt.

“………I always think this but, that action is really a mystery. What is with that anyway?”

“I explained this many times before right? It’s a religious teaching in my country. Everyone lives by touching their [Bible] with their fingers every single day”

“The country you used to live in sounds weirder to more I hear about it”

And.

Helmia said.

“Is the smartphone that interesting?”

Astartot smiled at those words.

He lifted his face from his smartphone which has a case that has the shape of black leathered note.

“It’s interesting. Well, the interesting part drops since there’s no signal here but even so, there are many things I can do with this”

Astarot then looked back at his smartphone again and talked while operating the screen with his finger.

“No need to worry, Princess Helmia. I have thought of many things so that we would take control of everything. In order for that, it’s better to let Laila Schut and Tooi Cross to do whatever they want for now – especially for Tooi Cross”

The man’s narrow eyes slightly opened wider.

There is a bewitching light of curiosity inside there.

“Even though it is impossible for us - humans not from this world to make contracts with Spirits, he was able to do so for some reason………Maybe his ancestors were people from this world; somewhere along that archetype? Well, no matter what reason it maybe, my interest isn’t running out”

After the man called Astarot Cougar – who previously was known as Tokugawa Asutarou in his old world mumbled that, he started fiddling with his smartphone again.

Just like a youngster living in modern Japan.

The [Wings of crimson light] was handed over to the northern HQ.

Maybe the death of the chief Guloss was a huge influence? They all gave up resisting and honestly responded to the investigation. They spit out information about the hideout and remaining comrades thus leading the [Wings of crimson light] into complete disbandment.

When it comes to disbanding, Aldbaran Company also was disbanded.

It was the master - Zesca’s decision.

The vice head Jebeg and his comrades desperately tried to persuade her but, she did not listen to anything they said and the young weapons company met it’s end while they were at the peak of popularity.

“---I see, Alua. So you’re turned into air again huh”

“Please don’t say that, Onee-chan!”

This was in Istar town.

Through the communicator in the inn, Alua contacted Laila.

“A lot of things happened but, now that things ended, looks like we are generally done with everything”

“………True. Both the [Wings of crimson light] and Aldebaran Company is gone and a contract with Zesca-san was done too. Judging from the results, it’s 100 points. Judging from the results though”

“What. Feels like you have something you want to say”

“Un……….”

Alua hesitated in her words but, she soon started letting out her words.

“Onee-chan………….I thinks I kind of understand what you meant last time”

“What?”

“About me making me kill Tooi Onii-chan when he is about to leave the path of humans”

It was the conversation that they had in the mansion’s office room a few months ago.

The overly heavy responsibility that was handed over to her together with the treasured swords passed down by the Schut family.

“I thought Laila Onee-chan was a little overly exaggerated at first. But………I was wrong. I think I have a better understanding in this journey”

“……………..”

“Tooi Onii-chan, is really strong, really kind and always laughs in his own pace but…….there are times when he’s extremely scary. There are also times when I have no clue to what he’s thinking about and what he’s looking at”

“……………..”

“Even though he’s so strong, he seems so unstable. He looks so unstable, so obscure, and so dangerous……….”

But, Alua said.

It was not said with a trembling uneasy voice but rather it was a voice with determination.

“I will believe in that Tooi Onii-chan”

“Believe?”

“Yeah. Tooi Onii-chan might have a dangerous part in him but, he’s fighting hard to not step out from his path. I kind of felt that ...........so I will believe him”

The Tooi Cross I admire.

The Tooi Onii-chan that I know.

I will believei him.

Alua said that with a refreshed smile.

The silence continued through the communicator but,

“………..So basically you fell I love in him huh”

Alua chocked over when she heard Laila’s impression which she finally gave.

“*Cough cough*! Wh-what are you saying Onee-chan!? Did you hear what I said!?”

“What, am I wrong?”

“You’re wrong! I-It’s true that I love Tooi Onii-chan but…….it’s not THAT love……….how should I say this, he’s too awesome for someone like me, and he probably thinks of me nothing more than a little sister…………”

When she was mumbling excuses, she could hear a happy laugh across the communicator.

“…….Come on! Then, what about you Onee-chan!? Do you love Tooi Onii-chan!?”

“Me? Let’s see………..”

Laila said.

In a really gentle and somewhat passionate voice.

“I do love him”

“……..Eh?”

“Ever since 10 years ago, wholeheartedly”

“Eh? Eeeh? Wha, does that………..”

“Just kidding”

Laila cut the communication after saying that confusing sentence. Alua was dumbfounded and was staring at the communicator for a while.

She was not satisfied with it but, Alua finished the inn’s procedures and greeted the inn owner before leaving the inn.

Outside, Tooi, Ryura and Zesca were waiting for her.

“Alua-chan. What did Laila say? Think we can get a permit to cross the border?”

“Yes. The procedures will be done shortly”

“Tooi. What is that about?”

To Ryura who asked a question, Tooi then answered her with the conversation he had with Alua just now.

“It’s annoying always heading back to the Imperial capital every time after all. I am thinking of crossing the northern border and head to the holy land of Sazaria like this”

“Sazaria holy land…….the country Minami created”

“Yes. Just like Zesca, she’s also actively making a big name for herself. If that’s the case, then I thought we should be the ones heading to her”

“Which means, the next [Nebulosa] to reestablish the contract, is decided to be Minami?”

“Tentatively. We know her whereabouts and she’s the closest one. Well, if we meet up with someone along the way, then I guess I will come up with something when the time comes”

“Now that we made our destination, let’s go already”

Zesca made that comment as if she could not wait any longer.

Tooi glared at her like that.

“Wh-what?”

“No…….You are kind of acting like a comrade like it’s a natural thing to do. Wait? Didn’t you say that you won’t forgive me?”

“Do-don’t misunderstand! I will not forgive you! It’s just……well, I guess I can acknowledge you a little……..”

“……………….”

“Th-the reason why I’m following you……….Y-yes! It’s for the weapons that I sold! Within the weapons I sent out to the world, there might be some that are being used in ways that I don’t want to. In order to retrieve all of them, it’s more convenient to follow you all”

“Fuuun. Well, I’ll leave it at that”

Zesca who was puffing her chest out to act cool and Tooi making a bitter smile.

Seeing those two like that, Alua and Ryura looked at each other and smiled.

“Okay then. I guess it’s time to head out. Ryura, Zesca”

Alua-chan.

Alua strongly nodded when Tooi called her in a gentle voice.

The Deity of [Violent Wind] – Ryura Vega.

The Deity of [War Empress] – Zesca Aldebaran.

There are 10 more of the [Nebulosa].

They can’t predict on what kind of troubles they will face in the future but, Alua felt that she would desperately chase after the back of the hero walking in front of her.

Translation Notes and References

Prologue:

Chapter 1:

Chapter 2:

Chapter 4:

Chapter 5:

Chapter 6:

Chapter 7:

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