Campione! Vol 15 Chapter 6

Chapter 6 - Queen of Turmoil Part 1 Erica Blandelli and Seishuuin Ena. All news of the two had disappeared from Colonia Agrippina. Naturally, they had not left without reason. There were compelling reasons why it was necessary. After the battle where the "King of the End" had descended — Helping Madame Aisha mount a horse in her dazed state, Erica and Ena had brought her with them back to the city of Colonia Agrippina. However, Doni's body had been stolen by the G.o.ddess Artio. More serious of all, their king, Kusanagi G.o.dou, had gone missing... "But I can still sense G.o.dou's direction." The next day after the hero's descent, Erica raised the issue in "Kusanagi G.o.dou's residence." In her hand was the pocket watch she often used, attached to a chain. Given the hair of someone she wanted to find, it could seek out their position — That was the magic she was using. "Isn't that to the north of here... Approximately fifty kilometers northeast." "That's quite far a place he went." Hearing the results of the search, Ena remarked with deep feeling. "But as expected of His Majesty. To think he managed to survive so miraculously!" "As much as I'd like to hurry over to find out exactly what sort of miracle it was, this distance is a little far." In the modern world, this distance would not have posed any issue at all. However, covering this on foot or horseback would take a few days. Also, G.o.dou's area was already outside of the Roman Empire's road network. Searching along routes without paved roads would be even more time consuming. "Our most pressing problem is still the Franks' situation after all." "Those misters are in disagreement and they're all impulsive people. So troublesome." Erica frowned and remarked. Ena nodded with a bitter expression. Despite surviving miraculously, Kusanagi G.o.dou was very likely injured. More importantly, Erica wanted to see her beloved as quickly as possible, but right now, she must suppress that impulse. Through Erica, news of "Salvatore Doni missing in action" had spread to the Franks. This caused them to recognize Doni as slain in battle, resulting in a great turmoil. Then the next day after the hero's descent, Erica and Ena held another meeting. "Among the Franks who supported Sir Salvatore as the great chieftain, there are four other chieftains." "Oh okay, that reminds Ena of powerful daimyos serving under the shogun's banner." "This is similar to j.a.pan's early modern feudal system? Well, they're essentially n.o.bles serving the monarch whose family founded the country. Also, after Sir Salvatore's alleged death in action, the Franks' four chieftains each came up with their own respective course of action." Course of Action 1: Inherit Doni's legacy, continue fighting the G.o.ddess's army. Course of Action 2: Swiftly withdraw from Colonia Agrippina, return to their homeland. Course of Action 3: Continue their occupation of Colonia Agrippina, but do not fight the G.o.ddess. Course of Action 4: Using this place as a base, loot the immediate surroundings in the short term before retreating. "Of course, it's best if they hurried and left without looting or doing anything!" "That would be the choice with the least sacrifice and chaos. However, even if they plan on returning to their homeland, it still doesn't solve the problem, leaving them no choice but to cower each day in fear of the G.o.ddess's curse." "But the fact that the Franks have been staying in this city is already quite weird in itself." "True. Extras with no place on the stage should just make their exit. Once the battle with Artio and Sir Salvatore begins, who knows what could happen. It would be best if all ordinary people were gone from this area." If necessary, Erica was fine with resorting to unscrupulous schemes. Also, there was someone here who was able to — rather, absolutely capable of — producing an effect. Hence, Erica and Ena had gone to find Madame Aisha. "I plan on leading the Franks' warriors to confront the G.o.ddess!" Gathered with the Franks' three thousand warriors in the former Roman army outpost... Standing in this kind of place, Madame Aisha declared as soon as she met the two girls. "I was asked by those who wished to inherit Doni-san's legacy, hoping I could a.s.sist them. Also, the Franks are in a state of disarray due to the great chieftan's absence... Also, the current mood where they want to subject the citizens to atrocities is totally unacceptable." Madame Aisha clenched both fists in a display of determination. "Also, Kusanagi-san is absent so I must do my best. I intend lead the Franks to have a meeting first with Artio-san who has stolen Doni-san's body." "But Aisha-san, the Frankish guys are already divided in opinion, right?" "Don't worry. I will go around and request everyone's support." The Madame answered Ena's question nonchalantly. Using the female Campione's authority of absolute charisma, all dissent was very likely going to be overturned, converting the Franks into her loyal believers. Madame Aisha was a gentle and kindhearted woman. Nevertheless, she clearly had no self-awareness regarding her bewitching charm... "But Madame, once it turns into a battle between Colonia Agrippina and the G.o.ddess, severe casualties could very likely occur in the citizens. Also, the hardship suffered by the Franks as a result of the G.o.ddess's curse can be considered their just deserts, but it could end up involving inhabitants of this city apart from the Franks." Erica was the one entering the conversation with an elegant tone of voice. In order to stimulate the Madame's sense of benevolence and mercy, she deliberately raised the issue of the "populace." This was tantamount to remonstrating a Devil King Campione, but given the situation, it was quite necessary. "I believe that that they should not suffer out of the blue. I implore you to reconsider — " "Hoho, don't worry. Since preparations are already made to some extent, I intend to take the Franks and leave this city, to begin a journey in search of Artio-san." This course of action could very well lead to another kind of commotion. Just as Erica and Ena exchanged a glance, intending to offer a contrary view... "By the way, Erica-san and Ena-san, I hope I can still receive your a.s.sistance. Let's all give it our best together, okay?" After that, the two girls spent roughly half a day with Madame Aisha. They accompanied the Madame to converse amiably with Frankish warriors in the outpost, women and children in the city, as well as talks with certain chieftains. Erica and Ena also heard from the Franks that they mostly held the view that "Madame Aisha was precisely the one suited to become the new great chieftain." That night, the two girls parted ways with Madame Aisha who was staying at the outpost. Returning to "Kusanagi G.o.dou's residence" with the master missing, Erica came to sudden realization at the entrance. Ena also went speechless all of a sudden and started to think in reflection. "...No way, Ena and you were struck by Aisha-san's authority too?" Ena muttered. When the two of them recalled their actions over the past few hours, they were quite stunned. "Clearly Ena had no intention of accommodating her plan, right?" "Same here. Without any awareness of being charmed, we started to a.s.sist the Madame very naturally..." "But why did we suddenly recover now?" "Probably because we are both accustomed to magic and also possess much stronger magical power than ordinary people... That's why we were able to regain our senses." Even the absolutely brilliant Erica Blandelli was in a gloom — Feeling the impact of an unprecedented situation, Erica desperately put her mind into motion. "Recovery was probably due to physical separation from the Madame, isn't it? But if we encountered the Madame again, perhaps we may be charmed again..." "Hearing you say that, Ena feels like we will inexplicably want to see Aisha-san, right?" "So you feel the same way too, Ena-san?" Erica and Ena discussed the terrifying aspects of the charisma authority. However, during the process, they would naturally recall the "gentleness" of Madame Aisha's smiling face, feeling a strange sense of admiration for the benevolent Campione — Sensing this mindset, the two girls respectively said: "Oh no! We must hide from Aisha-san... No, we must escape, right!?" "Also, the farther away the better. Until this feeling of admiration subsides, we need to get to a place where we won't run into her so easily." Madame Aisha's curse was probably alleviated by distance and time. Based on this speculation, the duo of Erica Blandelli and Seishuuin Ena came up with this idea and made their decision. Immediately entering the house to pack their luggage, they took out horses from the stable and instantly departed. Despite being nighttime, the pair still went through the city gates and left Colonia Agrippina. Following the road along the Rhine for now, they headed south. "Aisha-san mentioned earlier, right? About taking the Franks with her to seek the G.o.ddess Artio. But the other side is probably taking an army of those bears, right?" "If the two armies meet, then a battle will probably begin directly..." Madame Aisha and three thousand Frankish warriors. As well as the bear army led by the G.o.ddess. If the two armies met somewhere on a wide open plain, would a battle break out just like that? Fearing this possibility, the two girls spurred their horses to gallop. "Ah, jeez. If only Ama no Murak.u.mo could wake up, then His Majesty can be contacted." "We must act with the worst outcome in mind. In order to stop both Madame Aisha and the G.o.ddess Artio, we must make preparations...!" Ena controlled her favorite horse while lamenting the loss of the divine sword's a.s.sistance. On the other hand, Erica murmured with a determination on her face. At this moment, Erica touched the small leather pouch hanging on her belt. Inside was a bronze pen, ink and papyrus... It was two days after the "King of the End"'s descent when the two girls left Colonia Agrippina at night. Three days later, G.o.dou arrived at this same city together with Liliana and Yuri. Part 2 Back to Colonia Agrippina, after the meeting with Madame Aisha... Back to his residence in the city, G.o.dou was welcomed by a lineup of thirty maids. M ii ii ii n 'Welcome back, master! The thirty young maids greeted in unison. Since this was a luxurious mansion with a vast garden, the entrance was large enough to accommodate the thirty people gathered here. At some unknown point in time, the maids had procured a complete set of uniforms, resulting in a scene of grandeur. G.o.dou could not help but recall the maid cafe business run by his surrogate nephew, Lu Yinghua. Finding the experience quite refreshing, G.o.dou could not help but feel impressed. "I see. So this is the harem situation the Madame mentioned." "G.o.dou-san is honestly... incurable..." On the other hand, Liliana was muttering sardonically while Yuri sighed and remarked in a quiet voice. G.o.dou endured this embarra.s.sment silently while approaching one of the maids. This was the daughter of Frankish n.o.bles who had helped him during his patrols in the city. "Master, I have a message from mistress Erica." "Erica left it!?" "Don't worry even if you return and find me absent. I will surely return later — That was what the mistress said." G.o.dou was told that Erica and Ena had suddenly left the house during the night, three days earlier. They looked like they were in quite a rush and departed without saying much, only leaving a message. That night — "It's really not like Erica's style to leave without saying anything in spite of the obvious situation here." "Possibilities we could consider are..." "Fears of pursuers. Or perhaps, Erica and Seishuuin Ena felt that it was necessary to set off even before deciding on their destination. It could very well be one of these two." "If that were the case, Erica-san and Ena-san must be in quite a state of panic..." Yuri's worried expression darkened. Currently, only G.o.dou's trio was present in the office, holding a meeting. "Well, it looks like they're fine. Considering it's Erica, she'll always find a way to handle things appropriately." "Yes. This conclusion suits those two quite well. Especially since Erica is a girl as wily as a fox, it is fine not to worry about her." Liliana summed up the situation with a remark that seemed to express the trust and grudging relationship she shared with Erica. "Right now, the greatest unresolved issue is still Madame Aisha going out for battle." They had heard that Madame Aisha intended to leave Colonia Agrippina tomorrow, leading the several thousand Frankish warriors to negotiate with the G.o.ddess Artio. During the daytime, G.o.dou and his companions had witnessed the G.o.ddess in the gathering with the giant bear army. Most likely, the Franks' scouts had also discovered it and reported to Madame Aisha. However, the army, several thousand strong, worshiped the Madame from the bottom of their hearts. "They will surely lay down their lives to fight in defense of Madame Aisha. If those giant bears were to attack without notice..." "Judging from the terrain where the two armies will meet, a field battle is very likely." "The G.o.ddess probably won't consider any option apart from battle — That's so worrying." Only able to imagine dark futures, the trio all began to sigh. "In that case, it can't be helped. Let me follow Aisha-san. There are too many things that need to be done. Reducing casualties in the Franks as much as possible, resolving the matter of Artio and the Divine Sword of Salvation, recapturing Doni... I really have no idea how much my current body can do." Frowning, G.o.dou muttered. "At least if my health was okay, I could stop Aisha-san forcibly. Imprisoning her somewhere would be a solution. But she's probably quite strong and I won't be able to do it the way I am now." " "Eh?" " Seeing the two girls show surprise on their faces, G.o.dou answered with a serious expression. "No actually, I've never seen her fight either, but it's just a feeling from instinct. I believe that Aisha-san should be quite powerful in contrast to her appearance and personality... Ahhh, rather than 'powerful,' maybe 'troublesome' would be a better way of putting it." At this moment, Alexandre Gascoigne came to mind. That man was also in a distinct category separate from powerful G.o.ds and other Campiones, troublesome to handle in his unique way. "Regarding matters of combat, G.o.dou-san's opinion is probably correct..." Yuri nodded. Indeed, as the Hime-Miko with superb senses herself, she seemed to have recalled the exceptional instincts that Campiones displayed in areas related to combat. Liliana instantly responded: "In that case... In order to handle the Divine Sword of Salvation, the G.o.ddess who has obtained Sir Salvatore, as well as Madame Aisha, Kusanagi G.o.dou needs to be cured as soon as possible." At this moment, G.o.dou sat down on a chair at the office desk. But for some reason, Liliana swiftly came over to G.o.dou's side. Because it was quite a natural movement, it did not feel particularly out of place. "Regarding the reasons for your ill health, I have been thinking over it the entire time today and I feel that I have understood something. Let me go prepare a witch's elixir later. Hopefully, it will succeed in curing you." While saying this in a serious tone of voice, Liliana swiftly moved her hand at the same time. She placed a papyrus memo on G.o.dou's lap while he was sitting on the chair. On it was written "I will visit you tonight." Obscured by the desk's position, her action was out of Yuri's sight despite being in the same room. It looked like she was planning to apply magic directly instead of using medication... Surprised as a result, G.o.dou looked at the knight beside him. Liliana maintained her stern demeanor and simply responded with her eyes. Lasting only an instant, her glance conveyed an astounding sense of seductiveness, causing G.o.dou's heart to pound. But at the same time, he could not help but feel that "this behavior isn't right." Spurred by this impulse, G.o.dou was just about to speak up when Yuri suddenly became startled. "E-Excuse me. Actually, regarding G.o.dou-san's injury, I have also seen something!" A stiff and slightly abrupt suggestion. Perhaps through her extraordinary spirit senses, Yuri had received a spirit vision ahead of Liliana. G.o.dou immediately tore up Liliana's note. "If Liliana-san's medication works, then my method is not necessary. However, if it is your wish, G.o.dou-san, l-l can also..." "B-But ever since antiquity, medical treatment has always been part of a witch's duties." Finding the Yamato Nadeshiko, who was supposed to be quite conservative, following suit, Liliana began to falter. "I think I should be more suited to this task after all..." "A-Although that may be true, it is possible that there might be things that I may be of a.s.sistance..." The two girls chose to compete using reasonable manners and tones of voice. To avoid this type of situation arising, Erica and Ena had established an agreement. Now that things had developed to this, the one who should intervene between Yuri and Liliana was probably Kusanagi G.o.dou after all. Making his decision, G.o.dou interrupted. "Anyway, can I ask the two of you about the result of my wound's diagnosis?" "Ah yes. This is something I felt subconsciously, G.o.dou-san... Currently, rather than healing magic not taking an effect, it would be more accurate to say that your body has lost its ability to recover." Seeing Yuri answer timidly, Liliana also stopped arguing. "I feel the same as well. Have you noticed? The magical energy stored in your body currently is probably less than one seventh what you had before the injury. What we call magical power is akin to the concept of 'ki' mentioned in oriental medicine and Chinese martial arts, namely, the mind and the body's energy itself." In order to allow a j.a.panese person unversed in magic to understand, she deliberately used the term "ki." While displaying this type of considerate care, Liliana continued explaining. "The toxin injected by the Divine Sword of Salvation deprives a Campione's body of magical power, hence resulting in a slow down of recovery speed." "Then how do you think I can recover?" Asked by G.o.dou, the witch and the Hime-Miko pondered for a short while before answering. "For example, there is the way Seishuuin Ena goes to sacred mountains far away from civilization to purify her body and mind, to allow her body to slowly absorb the sacred aura of the land. However, that method is too time consuming." "I intend to use magic to transmit my own body's magical power to G.o.dou-san." "I also intend to use the same magic — n-no — to concoct an elixir of similar effect. But as a Campione, Kusanagi G.o.dou's body contains a ma.s.sive amount of magical power that ours cannot compare to at all." "Will our level of magical power be able to produce an effect if we share it with him...? Actually, I am quite worried about this point." Yuri brought up an uncertain element and Liliana nodded in agreement. It looked like their diagnoses and methods of treatment were virtually identical. Furthermore, after listening to all this, G.o.dou felt his mood relax and he smiled at the two girls. "Thank you, both of you. I understand very well now. If the injury is only of that level, I'm not worried." "G-G.o.dou-san!?" "Please do not say something so ridiculous! To this date, you have never wounded your body of a Campione's to this extent, right!?" "Yeah, sure. But after all, the bodies of my kind are not ordinary to begin with." How many months would it take to fully recover? With that worry in mind, G.o.dou spoke up in cheerful mood. "I think that all it takes is a life-threatening battle, then stuff like strength and magical power will automatically surge from the depths of the body." This was something that G.o.dou had experienced many times already, during every battle. Also, as soon as he said it out himself, G.o.dou found quite convinced. As a G.o.dslaying beast, a Campione's mind and body fully approved of his unreliable suggestion. Furthermore, G.o.dou could feel his body trembling with excitement. Yuri and Liliana fell silent, wondering "Is that what you really think?" "Anyway, I think I won't have that level of motivation unless in a battle of life and death, so I won't be stopping Aisha-san for now. But don't worry, I will go with her." "But Kusanagi G.o.dou, I still think it would be better if you tried treatment first..." "It probably won't be effective, right? In that case, just forget about it." Finding the two girls slightly dissatisfied, G.o.dou made his tone slightly more forceful. "I don't like having to pick between the two of you on who is going to do this kind of thing. This is different from previous times. Well, it's not like I could request this from both of you at the same time, right?" "P-Please do not say something so embarra.s.sing!" "V-Very correct, G.o.dou-san. A-Although I cannot deny that it has not happened in the past, G.o.dou-san, to think you would make such an outrageous suggestion on your own...!" As expected, the two girls objected with embarra.s.sment and anger. G.o.dou smiled at them as though saying "just kidding" and ended the conversation. "Well, I think this is fine. Thank you for your care." As though watching G.o.dou's smile with displeasure, the two girls exchanged a glance in an attempt to probe each other's feelings. Then they both bowed their heads. G.o.dou was the only one relieved that he was able to keep the argument under control. Then the next day arrived. Leading the Franks, Madame Aisha left Colonia Agrippina and started moving towards the east of the Rhine — the interior of Germania. Of the roughly three thousand warriors, a thousand stayed in the city. This was for guarding the city as their stronghold together with noncombatants such as women, children and servants. Even so, there were still approximately two thousand warriors accompanying the Madame, wielding swords, spears, axes, bows, arrows and various weapons, giving off an atmosphere of thugs overall. Based on the actual situation, rather than "moving", it was probably more accurate to call them "marching." Having joined the vanguard, Madame Aisha was riding a horse gallantly. On the other hand, treated as one of the injured, G.o.dou was mixed in the last group with the horse-drawn carts carrying supplies, sitting on a four-wheeled pa.s.senger cart together with Yuri and Liliana. "We also saw scenes like training at the Roman army fort at the other city earlier." G.o.dou was on a specially-made impromptu bed on the cart. Sitting cross-legged on it, he recalled his stay at the city of Augusta Raurica. "Compared to the marching and field training the Roman army went through, these Frankish warriors are very... sloppy. They don't seem to have any precise rules." The Roman army's infantry division would carry out strict training on a daily basis. Hence the obtained results. In simulated battles, they were able to get into formation in an organized manner, displaying unity of movement. When on the march, they were able to move swiftly in defined groups and could take breaks efficiently. They were also highly experienced in setting up camps. On the other hand, the Frankish group of thugs — Could barely be considered gathered together, advancing at a sloppy pace while following the people in front. However, due to their greatly varied armament, they were unable to get into proper formations. Consequently, the Franks never had any intention to actively group together in the first place. "I remember Erica mentioning something about 'ten thousand Roman troops can defeat thirty thousand Germans' once, but now it doesn't look very surprising after all." "Even when outnumbered by a factor of three!?" "That was probably referring to the Battle of Strasbourg." G.o.dou's heartfelt mutters elicited an exclamation of surprise from Yuri while Liliana smiled wryly. "The way I see it, the Frankish warriors gathered here are already quite used to battle. In a fight often against ten, I think the Franks will overwhelm Roman infantry. On the other hand, if it were fifty versus fifty, Roman infantry will win for certain." "Yeah." "Using spears, shields and metal armor as standardized equipment together with infantry contingents that can swiftly enter formations, these are elements that can produce comparative advantages on ancient battlefields. More importantly, the Roman army maintained strict discipline and had a very refined commanding structure, hence allowing them to move as a group from one battlefield to the next in quite a rapid manner." Gathered around the outskirts of Strasbourg was an allied force of Germanic tribes, numbering thirty thousand strong. Ten thousand Roman soldiers intercepted them by using tactics to target their disorganized offensive and splitting them into multiple fronts. While the first row was valiantly resisting the barbarian's overwhelming numbers, the Roman army led by Emperor Julian entered the fray at an opportune moment and slowly reversed the tide of battle. In the end, they were able to obtain an overwhelming victory. After Liliana finished talking about the exploits of how a losing battle was reversed, G.o.dou said: "Despite having such a powerful army, it was still the Romans who went into ruin at the end." "The Western Roman Empire was swiftly declining while on the other hand, the barbarians kept bolstering their strength from various areas. This result can be considered perfectly logical." "Now that's a story of earthly impermanence." Sighing over the principle of rise necessarily followed by downfall, G.o.dou continued his journey on the shaking cart. With the G.o.ddess Artio's location as their destination, discovered by Frankish scouts serving Madame Aisha, they made their way across a wide open plain in Germania. Completely devoid of the speed and discipline of Roman armies, this was quite a disorganized march. The shaking produced by horses was definitely not friendly for an injured body. However, G.o.dou could not allow frail girls to see him so useless. G.o.dou looked for another conversation topic. "It might be a bit late to ask at this point, but what's with the 'King of the End' which sounds like a nickname? What exactly is his real name?" "That is a research theme that Prince Alec has been investigating for many years." "I heard about the matter from Princess Alice when we were traveling to Bulgaria together last time." Liliana brought up the name of the peer with whom G.o.dou was not exactly on friendly terms while Yuri named the princess with the n.o.ble but relatively lighthearted personality. After mentioning the name of the White Miko-Hime, Yuri murmured with deep thought: "Despite searching for the 'King of the End' for eight years already, not once has she ever received a spirit vision regarding that hero's origins. As for why, the princess a.s.serts the following." "a.s.serts?" "Yes. 'His name cannot be read from the source of spirit visions, the [Akashic Memories], because it has undergone special treatment.' The princess probably visited Plutarch's Residence in the Netherworld to confirm this matter..." "Then speaking of which, the old man in that residence never mentioned the true name of the 'King of the End' throughout the entire time." Liliana nodded. G.o.dou recalled something else as well. Back when the pale-haired hero manifested, the G.o.ddess Artio had definitely called out his name, but a clap of thunder at the time covered up her voice completely. Initially, the "King of the End'"s face was shrouded in shadow, obscuring his original appearance. Perhaps these unnatural phenomena and the mysterious power preventing his true name from appearing in spirit visions were all caused by his intent to conceal his origins. "As expected of a G.o.d, how utterly absurd..." While they carried out this type of conversation with Yuri and Liliana in the shaking cart, the first day went by. The second day was also similar to the first. Then on the afternoon of the third day, the situation finally changed. Ahead of the Franks led by Madame Aisha, an army of a hundred and fifty giant bears was waiting. Part 3 Crossing the Rhine together with over a thousand companions, they advanced towards the interior of Germania... Although Madame Aisha prided herself on being used to traveling in general, she was actually quite used to group travel in this sort of racial migration as well. After journeying in various places, she would spontaneously find herself surrounded by crowds... This phenomenon happened quite frequently. "However, I must be careful this time." Clenching her dainty fists tightly, Madame Aisha murmured. "I am heading off to meet a G.o.ddess who plans on killing every single one of the Franks. If I don't display a little intimidation, she'll underestimate and bully me." Just as a precaution, she had already completed preparations for reversing the "healing authority." Currently, the wind blowing around Aisha and her entourage was exceptionally cold. Even though it was clearly spring, the wind was as chilly as though the season was midwinter. The air temperature dropped continuously, getting so cold that it would not be surprising if it snowed. Once things had cooled down to this level, she was able to reverse her authority any time. Aisha nodded. The "healing authority" was usurped from the Persephone, the G.o.ddess of spring. In actual fact, this G.o.ddess was also the queen of the underworld who ruled over the season of winter. Whenever inescapable circ.u.mstances forced her to use this power, this authority turned out to be unexpectedly useful. "Although Kusanagi-san always treats me as a worrisome little sister, I must show him that I am actually the 'older sister'!" With the greatly spirited Aisha as the rider, the pet.i.te horse trotted along its way. As a side note, surrounding her nearby were the four Frankish chieftains, accompanied by two hundred of their direct subordinates on horseback. Warriors on foot were also advancing steadily behind and on the left and right of this vanguard. Also, a group of horse-drawn cargo carts carried food and other supplies, moving at the very back. The Franks' two thousand warriors were marching in a disorganized manner, lacking in discipline. However, there were also quite a few people, despite their barbarian origins, who had learnt logical army management from the Roman Empire, as well as those who had mastered this type of knowledge by their own methods. Examples active in this era included the conqueror, Attila of the Huns, as well as King Alaric of the Visigoths, one of the Gothic tribes originating from Germania. However, none of the people gathered here seemed to possess this type of logical knowledge. Anyway, mixed in the cargo cart group, Kusanagi G.o.dou was watching this situation and thinking "as expected of people compatible with Doni..." G.o.dou recalled keenly. Then on the third day after this disorganized movement began, a report came back. A small squad scouting ahead had discovered where giant bears were gathered and sent back a report. This was a vast open plain with almost no cover at all. A few small hills and rocks were scattered to some degree across this vast gra.s.sland within a couple square kilometers. Led by Madame Aisha, the Franks' two thousand warriors were advancing without any hindrance. However, a group of beasts had already occupied one corner of this place. These beasts were all bears, each measuring four or five meters in body length. Furthermore, there were close to a hundred and fifty of them. Naturally, the giant bear army also noticed the approaching Frankish warriors. A hundred and fifty giant bears all growled or made threats with their vicious visages. In any case, the two thousand Frankish warriors drew their weapons in turn, yelling loudly for intimidation. Both sides displayed belligerent att.i.tudes. The hundred and fifty giant bears were separated from the Frankish warriors by several hundred meters. However, the two factions were on the verge of battle. The slightest provocation would instantly trigger a combat state. At this time, Aisha was currently at the forefront of the Frankish army. "E-Excuse me... Everyone, could you calm down slightly?" Riding on horseback, she looked back, tilting her head slightly as she pleaded. Despite speaking at a volume that should not be able to reach all two thousand troops no matter what, the Frankish warriors in the back suddenly quieted down, displaying a polite state of standby. Seeing the warriors so obedient, Aisha could not help but smile. Despite some excessive violence and love for battle, these people were actually kind souls at heart. "Hohohoho. Messrs Bear, you need to quiet down too^" Aisha made her "request" of the giant beasts several hundred meters ahead. Although the giant bears remained ferocious, they all cast curious stares at Aisha. "I knew it, true feelings can always be transmitted...!" Despite being the minions of a violent deity, each and every one of them was a Mr Bear of the forest, fluffy and clumsy. It is possible to get along with these children as friends, thought Aisha as she nodded. Naturally, this was also due to the a.s.sistance of the "charm authority." Spurring her horse forward alone, Aisha approached the group of giant bears. This was all done on whim. Aisha made a gesture with her hand to stop the Frankish warriors who wanted to follow her. Next, a young man walked out front from between the giant bears... Dressed in refreshingly white attire, carrying a thick and heavy divine sword on his back. He was someone bearing the same face as Salvatore Doni. Emotional cries of "Great chieftain!" were heard from the Franks. "Everyone, please quiet down! Doni-san's body has been stolen by the G.o.ddess! I will retrieve it, so please don't worry!" She pleaded to the warriors wavering behind her. Consequently, they went silent immediately. Feeling the Frankish warriors' trust in her, Aisha felt great warmth in her heart. At this moment, Doni spoke up: "We have met before, third of the G.o.dslayers. To think you are able to tame my minions." Sure enough, it was the G.o.ddess Artio's voice. "What truly bizarre behavior. Do you intend to use this skill to make my minions attack me instead, thereby obtaining victory?" "No." Although their inborn ferocity had been weakened, the giant bears were still glaring angrily at the two thousand Frankish warriors. The situation was now a face off between them and Doni-Artio's faction. Aisha called out. In order to eliminate the resentment carried by the G.o.ddess, now was the time to put her secret strategy in action. "I came here to make friends with you!" "Hon." "I know that we have many unfortunate misunderstandings. But I still feel that provided we are able to put aside those differences and converse, we should be able to understand each other's thoughts and feelings." "Hmm." "I know it's very difficult. I am human while you are a deity. We differ completely in birth and upbringing. But even so, that should not const.i.tute sufficient reason to prevent our hearts from connecting. After all, aren't love and benevolence things that both humans and G.o.ds possess alike!?" "I see now. I understand completely." "Yes, Artio-san!" "Namely, you not only wish to cross blades against me in battle but also hope for mutual understanding. In a battle between heroes, pitting their utmost against each other, developing a sense of respect for one's foe is definitely inevitable. Not simply engaging in deathmatches motivated by hatred towards the enemy but also seeking friendship on the battlefield..." "Yup." "Very well. I am also a G.o.ddess carrying the name of the [Bear]. You have definitely conveyed your mettle to me. Then let us clash our blades to our hearts' content with fervor and intensity that inhabitants of the land shall sing of till the end of time!" "Oh no, not that kind of interaction carried out with fist against fist!" Aisha frantically tried to deny. However, smiling with Doni's visage, Artio drew out the Divine Sword of Salvation while at the same time, a ferocious desire for conflict surged from all over the body! "O woman G.o.dslayer, make your move!" "Please listen to what others are saying!" Held by Doni-Artio, the Divine Sword of Salvation released radiance. This was the platinum light that was just as dazzling as the sphere of light that had appeared in the air previously. But this time, only the blade shone with light, unlike the previous time when it had gone out of control. Probably due to having grown used to using the divine sword, controlling its power was now possible. Whether this was good or bad was still indeterminate. In this instant, Aisha suddenly started to chant: "Excuse me... O beautiful maiden, I beseech you to open the terrifying doors of esoterism..." Spell words. For the sake of enacting an authority's reversal. These murmurs originated partially without conscious thought. Had she not done so, she would have died. Warned by her survival instincts, Aisha's lips moved on their own. Swiftly, she also leapt down from horseback. "Hurry and leave this place!" As soon as she spoke, the pet.i.te horse galloped away. Perhaps thanks to the "charm authority" as well, Aisha's message was instantly conveyed. Then Aisha turned her back towards Doni-Artio and began to run herself. "O sword of salvation, let lightning be released!" "Eeeeeeek!" As the G.o.ddess's voice came from Doni's mouth, the divine sword in his right hand gave off lightning. Suffering the shocking impact of light and heat, Aisha was blown far away. Like a log, she rolled along the ground. "E-Ehhhh." But completely unharmed, this was by the corrective force's grace. To a certain extent, the "fairy's corridor" authority was also capable of manipulating history's corrective force. For example, Aisha's presence in the current era could only be maintained if she did not suffer excessive injury. Both this time and the last, when she had been shot by Hunnic G.o.dslayer Uldin's arrows, were instances of the corrective force's protection. Rolling on the ground, Aisha pondered while her gaze wandered. (1-1 knew it, this level cannot produce much threat...) Artio was not [Steel], but just a mother G.o.ddess of the earth. She intended to use the Divine Sword of Salvation to fight in the place of the body she had lost. However, this was not a power she was supposed to control in the first place. Hence, it was impossible for her to control it freely. Rather, letting the sword go berserk like last time would pose a greater threat. However, Doni-Artio intended to conserve the divine sword's power and only controlled it casually. Hence, the reduction in power had the opposite effect instead. Weakening in power was no problem as long as the enemy could be slain. "Were Doni-san and Kusanagi-san present, they would surely seize this opening to counterattack..." After murmuring, Aisha's body suddenly shook. Finally stopped rolling, she instantly stood up and yelled: "A-Artio-san! It's very dangerous, hurry and escape now!" "What?" The north wind began to blow, cold as frost, chilling wind mixed with snowf lakes. "Ice and snow — the power of a winter G.o.ddess!?" Surprised, Doni-Artio's body was being frozen by the rampaging north wind. The cold wind rumbled and kept increasing in momentum. This divine north wind brought the cold air of winter to Germania's wide open plain. Furthermore, the sky turned dark and bleak as white and tiny snowflakes began to fall. "Oh no... I used it again..." Aisha's shoulders suddenly slumped dejectedly. As the G.o.ddess of spring, Persephone was a kindhearted young girl. Forcefully abducted by the G.o.d of the underworld, Hades, she became his wife and was taken to the realm of the dead. But when winter arrived, she suddenly transformed into the cruel queen of the underworld, bringing freezing air to the world. Furthermore, whenever the power of healing was reversed, "winter's authority" frequently executed Aisha's impromptu strategies mercilessly without hesitation. It was as though Aisha's own temperament and principles were reversed as well. "An attack going as far as to advise me to flee... If I do not take it on, my name as the G.o.ddess shall be tarnished!" "Th-That's not what I mean!" Currently, Doni-Artio held up the divine sword amidst the ice-cold north wind, mobilizing the magical power in a Campione's body to resist this authority. However, the ground beneath the sword-wielding Campione suddenly collapsed. Like a great earthquake — a creva.s.se appeared on the ground, dozens of meters long. "Gun..." The divine sword's user fell into the depths of the earth. The underworld ruled by Queen Persephone existed deep underground. Consequently, the queen's authority not only included extreme cold but also the ability to drag enemies underground. "This means that this area will become a world of midwinter for now..." Powerful blasts of cold air flowed out from the creva.s.se where Doni-Artio was swallowed. Although Aisha did not feel any discomfort herself, an ordinary human would freeze to their very bones if they spent long durations in this area. In the worst case, they would freeze to death here. But this time, what flowed out from the fissure in the ground was not just cold air. 'O woman G.o.dslayer, superbly done indeed.' Hearing the G.o.ddess's voice coming from underground, Aisha shuddered. 'Even for G.o.ds, escaping from the underworld's prison is no easy task. The majority of G.o.ds would have no choice but to welcome death. Nevertheless, I am also a queen ruling the earth...' Artio's voice carried neither anger nor hatred but tender affection instead. 'Please be patient and wait for now. I shall terminate this one-way journey and return to the surface once more. Before that, please allow my minions to serve as opponents to quell your boredom!' "Oooh, sure enough!" The secret technique of dragging enemies underground was immensely powerful. Depending on circ.u.mstances, its power could deliver a one-hit kill. However, the majority of mother earth G.o.ddesses like Artio held ident.i.ties as underworld G.o.ddesses as well, hence it was impossible to deal her an effective blow. Also, this technique was also ineffective against divinities whose legends included "dying at one point but miraculously revived." Furthermore, after Artio spoke — Holding their positions obediently until just now, the giant bears suddenly began to riot. Roughly a hundred and fifty giant bears were groaning viciously, making grim gazes and expressions at Aisha and the Franks while slowly moving in their direction. "Everyone calm down! Please!" Aisha clasped her hands together and prayed towards the giant bears. But there was no effect. Recovering their ferocity, the beasts did not halt, continuing to approach Aisha and the two thousand Franks several hundred meters away. The giant bears were the G.o.ddess's minions to begin with. Also, Aisha was meeting them for the first time today. Hence, even the charm authority was unable to wield influence beyond "requests." "Heeeeeee!" 'Hohohoho. Do not be mistaken, this is not all there is for the return gift!' The G.o.ddess laughed heartily while starting a pursuit. In the next instant, platinum radiance shone underneath Aisha's feet. No, not just underfoot but also the ground of her entire surroundings was glowing with light. This was the lightning of salvation released from deep underground. Unlike the power of the neutralized lightning earlier, this was on a completely different level. This time, the G.o.ddess did not bother with precise control, probably performing the attack without caring if it went berserk or not. Engulfed by the exploding flash of light underfoot, Aisha's body vanished. Part 4 The bear army led by the G.o.ddess Artio. The two thousand warriors of the Franks. These two armies finally encountered each other. But rather than developing suddenly into a battle, they faced off, separated by a distance of several hundred meters. The two faction's leaders met at the midpoint to hold negotiations. Madame Aisha's authority had dragged Doni-Artio into the bottom of the earth. "Although I sort of guessed a little already, it really turns out to be a d iff i cult-to-control power after all..." G.o.dou muttered. Mixed among the Franks, he had observed the meeting just now. Just as a precaution, he had stood near the front row. The two girls who had brought G.o.dou there, Yuri and Liliana, were also rendered speechless by the sudden developments of the situation. "A-As much as she did not intent to fight, her authorities would automatically unleash themselves." "Within Madame Aisha's authorities, perhaps all of them inevitably include aspects that cannot be consciously controlled by her own will..." "Despite lacking any intent to fight, attacks are suddenly launched." In a certain sense, her usual behavior and existence itself became feints and diversions during battle. Witnessing what was so scary about Madame Aisha, G.o.dou frowned. "Doni was right, it's definitely very sly..." However, the battle did not end there. Coming from underground, the G.o.ddess Artio's voice roused the bear army to go violent. Struck by the lightning coming from underground, Madame Aisha vanished from sight. "Aisha-san!?" G.o.dou doubted his eyes. Impossible, how could that person be... Furthermore, the hundred and fifty giant bears started to advance. The giant bears had ma.s.sive bodies, roughly four or five meters in length, and would look as big as a house if they stood up on their hind legs. In addition, all of the giant bears had gone violent, baring their fangs in a display of fighting spirit. This army boasted of ma.s.sive bodies while rushing towards the Franks. GROWWWWWWWWLLL— ! GROWWWWWWWWWWWWLLL— ! GROWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWLLL— ! The giant bears' incessant howling shook the air and the ground. Faced with the giant bears that were arriving like a tidal wave, the Franks were clearly wavering due to having witnessed Madame Aisha's disappearance. Every one of them shouting "Great chieftain!", they started to cry and scream. However, someone among them yelled out: "You guys! Aren't you going to avenge the great chieftain!?" This yell's effect was quite p.r.o.nounced. The men instantly changed their demeanor. HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO— ! HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO— ! HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO— ! The human faction also began to shout and charge. Naturally, they were charging towards the tidal wave composed of a hundred and fifty giant bears. Wielding swords, spears, axes, bows, arrows and other weapons respectively, their bodies and minds were all fired up with determination and desire for vengeance. On this wide open Germanian plain, the two armies engaged in an intense conflict — The chaotic battle began. Naturally, the giant bears were overwhelming in power if one were to compare one giant bear with a single Frankish warrior. However, the giant bears numbered a hundred and fifty. On the other hand, the humans were two thousand strong. Simply by calculation, ten people could challenge each bear with extra to spare. A giant bear swung its stout front limb. A Frankish warrior fell. The giant bears were biting with their vicious jaws and teeth. Screams and bleeding Frankish casualties began to appear on the battlefield. This type of tragic scene could be found all over the battlefield. Nevertheless, there were many powerful individuals among the Franks who were able to halt the giant bears' violent offensive using shields and agile movements. In addition, many more were able to stab their weapons into the giant bears' bodies that presented ma.s.sive openings in their b.e.s.t.i.a.l, savage attacks. As a result, this vast plain in Germania became littered with the corpses of beasts and humans. "The fighting only started five minutes ago and there are already so many casualties!" "l-lf only Madame Aisha with her healing authority were still here at least..." "Oh well, given who she is, I don't think she'd die so easily..." Remarking respectively, every member of G.o.dou's trio was currently far away from the battlefield. They had stayed where they were when the Frankish warriors charged for the attack. This decision was made in order to avoid getting swept up into the violent chaos of the battlefield. At this moment, Liliana took the bow off her back and wielded it in her left hand. This was a composite bow used by equestrian tribes. Instead of wood, it was made from animal bones and tendons, a bow that could fire arrows from quite a long range despite its small size. Using her right hand to draw an arrow from the quiver at her waist, she placed it on the bowstring. Swiftly, she fired, sniping a giant bear dozens of meters ahead. The giant bear happened to be fighting savagely with Frankish warriors. With perfect aim, Liliana's arrow pierced the giant bear's right eye. Immediately, she shot a second arrow, this time sending it into the giant bear's left eye. These two arrows not only skewered the eyeb.a.l.l.s but also penetrated into the brain. The giant bear was struck dead by the two arrows and collapsed. Witnessing Liliana's archery, the surrounding Franks shouted with excitement. However, having exhibited these superb skills, the silver-haired knight shook her head. "At this rate, the situation will deteriorate. Alone, I cannot annihilate all the enemies..." "My body still can't fight..." At least if one or another of Verethragna's incarnations could be used — G.o.dou gnashed his teeth in chagrin. Currently, not only did his body feel heavy as h.e.l.l, but his magical power did not rise at all. Perhaps due to this, despite the battle having started already, he could not think of which incarnation should be used. Yuri leaned herself over as though worrying for G.o.dou's condition. Feeling grateful for her care and consideration, G.o.dou began to push his mind to think. Just as Liliana said, the situation was going to deteriorate. In that case, a risky gamble must be taken — ! Then just as G.o.dou intended to start this gamble... "...Dragon?" Liliana suddenly looked up, staring at the southern sky. G.o.dou also focused his eyes. At first, all he could discern was a black dot, but after a while, he immediately saw what was flying in from the south. Roughly four meters in body length. Similar to an agile theropod in form. However, instead of stubby forelimbs, it was soaring in the sky using a pair of wings that sprouted from the shoulders. The strong hind legs each had a thick claw at the end of its foot, a sharp weapon supposed to be called the "terrible claw" that the flying monster was born with. Unmistakable. This was one of the pterosaurs under Uldin's control. Furthermore, riding on the pterosaur's back was a glamorous blonde beauty — "Erica!" G.o.dou could not help but call out her name. "What's the matter, Ena-san?" "Is it imagination? Ena feels like someone is calling your name, Erica-san." Seeing the black-haired Hime-Miko's surprised look, Erica asked her. Exceptionally gigantic bears were currently engaged in a chaotic battle with the Frankish warriors below. The pterosaur easily glided in the sky ten-odd meters above the ground. Erica was the one holding the reins and mounted on the saddle. Sitting behind her was Seishuuin Ena. "His Majesty could very well be down there!? Did he discover us!?" "That would be ideal if it were the case. Considering it's G.o.dou, being present at a great commotion is totally not surprising at all." "His Majesty really tends to get drawn into things like battle and conflict." The pterosaur borrowed from Uldin was able to glide effortlessly despite supporting two people's weight. Hanging on Erica's neck was a pendant made from a dragon's tooth with a string through it. This was also given by Uldin. Apparently, his pterosaurs could be tamed in a matter of days, provided one possessed this object. Due to the issue of riding skills, Ena did not borrow a pterosaur. Essentially, these pterosaurs could be controlled similar to how horses were ridden. However, it was relatively difficult for the Hime-Miko who was still a novice in this area. "Thank goodness we made it. However, I can't seem to find Madame Aisha and the G.o.ddess who possessed Sir Salvatore's body." "Oh well, it's already time to get into action." The Hime-Miko of the Sword smiled happily and reached out. Taking an arrow from the quiver hanging on the saddle, she handed it over to Erica. "There is no question that these bears need to be dealt with." "Well said. Then, let's get on with it!" Erica took down an iron bow from the saddle. An iron bow was used to give arrows range and power beyond conventional. Even a burly and muscular man would have extreme difficulty drawing this bow. However, Erica had already augmented her arm strength using magic. Taking the arrow handed over by Ena, she effortlessly pulled the bowstring. This was mounted archery performed while riding a pterosaur. Erica's feet were supported by the two stirrups hanging on each side of the saddle. Relying on the a.s.sistance conferred by this equipment, Erica shot the first arrow — Whoosh! Howling like a strong gust of rapid wind, the arrow flew towards the battlefield below. Erica had already applied iron alchemy to all of the arrows, a spell to increase penetrative power. Combined with the iron bow's power, the arrow easily skewered a giant bear's body that was as large as a house. Having penetrated the enemy, the arrow did not lose momentum and embedded itself into the ground. The targeted giant bear collapsed with a crash and stopped moving. Dead on the spot. The skillful archery required to pierce a moving beast's eye was quite superb. However, achieving the power of a one-hit kill required aiming for the relatively less mobile torso — in particular, sniping the heart was the most efficient. This bold sniping was repeated ten times continuously, carried out from the air. In rapid succession, ten arrows pierced the giant bears nearby, producing ten corpses. Fighting with all their might in the bears' surroundings, the Franks stared in shock at the airborne reinforcements. However, there was no time to pay attention to them. "Go to a place with many bears. Let Ena down!" "Understood!" Since this was wide open plain, there were also open s.p.a.ces in addition to areas where the density of people and bears were high. Using the pterosaur's mobility effectively, the duo swiftly moved to the air above another zone of intense battle. Ena instantly jumped down. Indeed, directly from the pterosaur's back! Like a cat or a monkey, the agile Hime-Miko landed lightly, descending on the battlefield. Usually, she wielded the divine sword, Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi. But right now, she was holding in her hand a broad sword in its sheath — Rather than a j.a.panese sword, this was a western double-edged sword. "Cuore di Leone! Help Ena-san right this instant!" The magic sword in Seishuuin Ena's hand responded to its master's request. The silver blade shone faintly with light. Normally, Erica used Cuore di Leone in the form of a slender sword. On this occasion, she had returned the sword to its form as a longsword, lending it for Ena to use as the divine sword's subst.i.tute. "Yahhhhhhhh!" Wielding the magic sword of the lion in the stance of ha.s.sou-no-kamae^, Ena ran. In order to be swung hard with two hands, Cuore di Leone's hilt was quite long. Consequently, it could wielded in the same manner as a j.a.panese sword. Armed with this magic sword, Ena rushed towards her target — naturally, one of the giant bears. Although the giant bear was being surrounded by six Frankish warriors, Ena breezed past the warriors like the wind and jumped with movements as agile as a monkey's. With the giant bear standing on its hind legs, its head was roughly five meters above the ground. Ena jumped up high, slashing at the giant bear's short neck using the stance of ha.s.sou-no-kamae. The enemy swung its thick forelimbs, trying to tear the Hime-Miko's delicate body apart. However, Ena and Cuore di Leone did not stop moving. The lion's magic sword first chopped off the giant bear's elbow then proceeded to sever its head in one flowing motion. Compared to wielding Ama no Murak.u.mo no Tsurugi, the sharpness and power was equal. "Next!" Having slaughtered one giant bear, Ena immediately turned and ran towards a second one not far away. The second giant bear was surrounded by Frankish warriors as expected, but again, Ena squeezed through them and slashed at the giant bear's body with the magic sword. Cuore di Leone's blade pierced into the area below the ribs, chopping the abdomen horizontally without hindrance. With the blade buried deeply in its liver, the second giant bear was also effortlessly struck dead. "That's rather magnificent." While praising her rival, Erica did not stop either. Seeing her quiver empty, Erica waved her hand and used summoning magic. Hence, ten-odd arrows instantly appeared and could be shot again. Erica controlled the pterosaur while continuing to snipe the ground from the air. Every arrow shot out was accompanied by the creation of a giant bear's corpse. This repeated like ma.s.s production. In this manner, she and Ena continued to clear away the giant bears. Once the surrounding enemies had been exterminated, Erica made the pterosaur descend. It so happened that there were several Franks below. Seeing the pterosaur descending overhead, they began to panic. Running towards where the pterosaur was descending, Ena jumped with agility, landing behind Erica neatly. With two pa.s.sengers again, the pterosaur flapped its wings violently to ascend. Erica and Ena had already defeated nearly twenty giant bears. However, there were still a great number of them. While having the pterosaur soar, Erica looked for her next prey. "Their clean manner is really quite absurd..." Watching Erica and Ena's active performance from afar, G.o.dou muttered. Due to the separation of four or five hundred meters, their detailed actions could not be seen clearly, of course. However, judging from the way they flew around the battlefield on the pterosaur, they were evidently victorious again and again. For those girls, the most important aspect was being individually powerful. Furthermore, in order to apply this power effectively, they made maximum use of the pterosaur's mobility, fighting all over the place with fervor. This was an active performance that only those two could achieve, in command of both power and clear minds. Meanwhile, standing by Kusanagi G.o.dou's side were Liliana and Yuri. The silver-haired knight was obvious, but even the Hime-Miko also possessed extraordinary powers. In the past, she had employed the spirit power of psychic sensing to protect G.o.dou from the G.o.ddess Circe. The two of them were staying by G.o.dou's side to protect him. Despite being far from the chaotic battle's center, a few giant bears approached on occasion in search for prey. Every time this happened, Liliana shot the bear dead with arrows. "Thanks for the help, both of you." Another giant bear was slowly approaching. G.o.dou instantly said quietly: "No need to protect me anymore. It's fine if you leave me alone." Saying that, he started moving towards the giant bear. Yuri went "G.o.dou-san...", intending to chase after him but Liliana shook her head and placed a hand on Yuri's shoulder. Presumably reminded of what she "should be doing," the Hime-Miko immediately stopped and with a worried expression, watched G.o.dou leave. "Kusanagi G.o.dou..." Despite worrying as well, her dignified and beautiful face tensing up, Liliana watched him silently. During this time, G.o.dou continued to walk. Still injured at this point in time, even his footsteps were unsteady. Nevertheless, he still forced himself to continue, finally facing off against the giant bear one on one. GROWWWWWWWWWL! The four-meter giant bear howled loudly and stood up on its hind legs. This was a threat made by displaying its gigantic body. Next it swung its left arm, intending to strike G.o.dou viciously with its ma.s.sive paw and claws. In response, G.o.dou desperately moved his unsteady body, jumping backwards and successfully evading at the last moment, However, the tip of the bear's claws scratched his chest slightly. Searing pain wandered over his chest as blood splattered. "Gah— !?" Enduring the pain, G.o.dou focused his concentration. Currently, he neede