Campione! Vol 9 Chapter 3

Chapter 3 - Athena Reappears Part 1 Work was proceeding cautiously under strict security. Big clumsy machinery (seemed to be called cranes?) was being employed to excavate a target below the the red sacred seal (called something like torii). — King who manifests at era's end. The secret to his location lies dormant in this coastal holy sanctum. The place was much more crowded than the last time Guinevere had visited. The hidden guardian of this place had been able to vaguely sense this land's "life force." Even though Guinevere had concealed herself using magic, the other party seemed to have sensed her presence slightly. Due to the sudden increase in alert level, Guinevere had quickly retreated. "As feared, things will not progress that easily." Using the [Witch's Eye] to enhance her vision, she was watching the excavation from afar. She had originally intended to revisit this beach in the Far East to seek out its secret. But the local wizards seemed to be planning on entrusting the secret to the Campione. While the uninteresting machines were engaged in digging, the joint effort of several dozens of wizards had released the underground seal. Guards were also set up to prevent interference. Amongst those dozens of people present were skilled swordsmen, ninjas, wizards and miko on standby — The most troublesome opponent of all would be that sword-wielding miko who could use divine possession. Guinevere had seen her last time when the Great Sage Equaling Heaven had appeared. It would be prudent to avoid a frontal confrontation with this girl. "It is still too early to lay Guinevere's life on the line. Rather than stand around helplessly, it would be better to reverse the situation in the opponent's hand." Seeking a.s.sistance from Lancelot's might... Was not an option she considered. Even though he was the knight who served Guinevere, he was a deity with all things considered. If a pertinent level of respect was not maintained, their bonds would likely grow progressively weaker. But then again, making a request to that lowly human would really be ridiculous to the extreme. "Kusanagi G.o.dou-sama who defeated the Great Sage Equaling Heaven... Already exhibits the might of a G.o.d-slayer. Come to think of it, Athena called him her mortal enemy..." Just as Guinevere was a.n.a.lyzing the developing situation, she noticed "movement." "She came as expected, G.o.ddess Athena. Coming to send Guinevere to the grave instead of sitting somewhere waiting for her demise." ( — Beloved child, this Knight is fit for battle.) Whispers were carried to her ears, from wherever Lancelot lay resting. (If the G.o.ddess reappears, just meet her in battle. Truly, she is a formidable foe... But it will be an excellent opportunity to make contact with the Holy Grail. If we succeed, the Divine Sword of Salvation will also be able to retrieve its true power, and Athena's immortality will reach an end, sending her on her way to h.e.l.l.) It was a very attractive proposal, but Guinevere shook her head. "No, let's not do that yet. If you go all out like previously, the time required for Sir Knight to recover will be further delayed." With roughly ten more days before Lancelot would recover his true power, there was no point in overexerting themselves. After all, other heroes were available to battle the G.o.ddess — "Stay hidden for now. Today is definitely not the right time to meet Athena." Guinevere activated her magical powers of a Divine Ancestor. Dissociating her witch's body, she became one with the air, and flew away riding on the wind. Erasing her trail as she ran away in this manner, even Athena would have difficulty tracking her down. "Tsk, was one a step too tardy?" Clicking her tongue in disapproval, Athena was standing on a seaside cliff in the form of a young girl. Her gaze pointed towards the white waves crashing upon the cliff. There had been a minute remnant of Guinevere's lingering presence. However, it had now vanished — "Forsooth, 'tis the Holy Grail within one's body... Alerted the prey." Athena murmured to herself. Thanks to swallowing the Grail, she now understood its nature fully. "As long as this object remaineth in one's body, 'tis impossible to approach the descendant of its creator?" Guinevere was the witch born from the white matriarch deity's reincarnation. She had apparently fled as soon as she sensed Athena approaching. If nothing changed, this situation would only repeat time and again. "Is there no way to send that witch to her grave, and stop that man's revival...? Hmm, 'tis one's destiny to defeat Kusanagi G.o.dou. But as things stand, he cannot defeat that man. For no G.o.d-slayer can prevail against that man once he awakens." If that was the case, what could be done? What could G.o.ddess Athena do? " — Fu. One had wished for a ripened opportunity, but the time for harvest hast arrived. One shall have a decisive showdown against Kusanagi G.o.dou here." If this life persists after the duel concluded, then Lancelot will be forced to pay back his dues at that time...! Her remaining time was not abundant. Having made her decision, Athena displayed a brave and fearless smile. The G.o.ddess' battle spirit roused, the waves beneath intensified in turn. Violent winds blew across the sky to answer to the G.o.ddess' raging spirit. "Superbly done, war G.o.d Lancelot. As befitted proper [Steel] inheriting the ways of ancients. Desecrating one's immortality in this manner!" The swallowed Holy Grail continued to erode her life from within. The immortal G.o.ddess's life was gradually absorbed by this divine artifact. Slowly but surely, Athena was approaching death. "Hohoho. Were one to take this Holy Grail and crosseth over to the [Boundary of Life and Immortality], perhaps this life may persist indefinitely..." There were occasional [Heretic G.o.ds], tired of endless wandering, who chose to live secluded in that world. It could very well be Athena's one and only path of survival. "Nevertheless, one is not obliged to take that path. Letting the riotous spirit rage in war, and choosing the path of battle is what befits this G.o.ddess. One shall first defeat Kusanagi G.o.dou, then Lancelot shall be vanquished. If this life lingereth still, justice shall be met upon that maidservant, and vengeance brought to that man...!" Precisely because she had transcended mortality, she was not one to struggle for the sake of prolonging her life. Death was welcome as long as all those unaccomplished tasks could be settled without regret. When the time comes and her power is fully depleted, she will lay down upon the earth and pa.s.s away as if entering eternal slumber. Athena was not only the tripart.i.te G.o.ddess, but also the G.o.ddess of war. As the end drew near, would it not be particularly meaningful to embrace death as the G.o.ddess of war?! Standing before the turbulent eastern sea, Athena felt exhilaration as her emotions rose to new heights. Part 2 On the Friday after the school festival had ended, Kusanagi G.o.dou was going to Chiba Prefecture. The day before, he had received a phone call from Seishuuin Ena. "h.e.l.lo, Your Majesty, please! I hope you can help!" It was the first time ever for him to receive a call from Ena. This was the girl who seldom used modern tools of civilization with their intended purpose. "Sure, if it's within my power... Is it something troublesome?" "I'm afraid so. Ah, but Amakasu-san said Your Majesty once accepted a similar request from Erica-san, so it shouldn't matter." "Something Erica once requested..." G.o.dou was reminded of all sorts of unreasonable demands she had forced upon him before. They all pretty much sowed the seeds for future conflict with G.o.ds. "The worst time was when she forced me to bring back the stone medallion which drew Athena to Tokyo." "Yes yes, that's exactly it. There's a medal-like thing that we want Your Majesty to safeguard for us. It's still being dug out of the ground, but it'll probably be ready tomorrow or the day after." Last time he had been entrusted with the unforgettable Gorgoneion. It was a medallion with the mother earth G.o.ddess' wisdom engraved on it. Well, it can't be helped. G.o.dou sighed. This was like volunteering himself to finish the job. It meant helping Ena, Amakasu and the rest of them even more in the future. Starting around spring earlier this year, he had been completely sucked into involvement with the supernatural world — G.o.dou lamented to himself as he answered. "Understood. I'll help. What do I need to do first?" "We will welcome Your Majesty here tomorrow. Ena is currently at Chiba, oh?" The next day after that phone call was a bright and sunny Friday. After returning from school, G.o.dou lied about staying at a friend's place for the weekend before setting off from home. Having arranged a ride with an acquaintance beforehand, he waited at a nearby main road. A common silver domestic car stopped briskly before G.o.dou on the roadside. G.o.dou was shocked to see the person at the steering wheel. It was the androgynous Hime Miko, Sayanomiya Kaoru, who resembled both a handsome youth and a beautiful lady at the same time. "Actually I just received my driver's license, so let me be the chauffeur for today." She winked and explained as he sat down on the pa.s.senger seat beside her. Come to think of it, she (often feels like a he) was in her third year of high school. Even if she had just reached eighteen years of age, it was sufficient to get a normal official license. "Thank you for your efforts... But Kaoru-san seems to be quite familiar with driving?" "Yes. I 'just happened' to get my license recently. On the other hand, having a car is a lot more convenient when going out with girls to various places for fun. In the past, I sometimes carried authorization under another's name, and it often proved to be useful." Kaoru's control of the steering wheel was very steady. Somehow, G.o.dou felt like verifying if she might drive recklessly like a novice... "It feels quite incredible when I realized recently just how many amazing people are around me, leading normal lives..." "Hmm, this could very well be called 'birds of a feather, flock together.'" Kaoru replied cheerfully to G.o.dou's exclamation. Furthermore, she was suggestively grouping herself with G.o.dou and his other strange companions together. "Well, from this moment on, I will be the proud driver in charge of our journey. Do you want to go for a spin and pick up girls? I'm sure if G.o.dou-san partners with me, we're in for quite a catch!" "I'm not used to hitting on such a large number of girls!" Kaoru continued to drive steadily as she made her unsettling suggestion. Along the way they picked up two girls. Mariya Yuri and Liliana Kranjcar. Both of them in casual dress, Yuri was wearing a one-piece dress with a matching knitted top while Liliana was dressed in a short-sleeved blouse, jeans and a halfcoat. "So, now that everyone is here, I will briefly explain the situation." Kaoru spoke slowly as soon as they got on the Shuto Expressway. The Hime-Miko and History Compilation Committee executive revealed an incredible legend. Queen Oto Tachibana-Hime, jumped into the sea with sword embosomed. Sea currents carried her sword to a landless location, whence a floating island subsequently appeared. "Now that it's mentioned, Kazusa and Awa are certainly places with deep ties to Yamato Takeru no Mikoto and Oto Tachibana-Hime." Yuri the Hime-Miko was the first to nod in agreement. "Is that so, Mariya?" "Yes. G.o.dou-san should probably know already — " Yuri proceeded to recount the last moments of Oto Tachibana-Hime. It was a most familiar story. "The place where Takeru no Mikoto and Hime set off to sea, called Hashirimizu, still exists in Kanagawa Prefecture. Shrines were built in worship of Oto Tachibana-Hime as a deity on both sides of Tokyo Bay in Kanagawa and Chiba." It was the story of Yamato Takeru that G.o.dou knew from childhood. For Tokyo Bay to be involved in that setting... G.o.dou was honestly surprised. "The interesting thing here is that the surfacing rumors always involve Oto Tachibana-Hime. Even the discontinued version had a part about Yamato Takeru and Hime." Kaoru provided supplementary details. "The prestigious sword and its owner the n.o.ble One sank into the sea, floating towards 'the island where there was neither land nor sea.' When the sword reappears on earth, the n.o.ble One shall reawaken... That is what was said." "In that case..." Liliana suddenly interrupted. Since the conversation topic had been about j.a.panese myths which were outside her expertise, she had remained silent until now. "What this fantastic legend is really trying to convey, is not the final moments of Hime, but the whereabouts of the sword... Is that not correct?" "That could very well be true. At least, that was how Amakasu-san and I got our hands on this matter." Kaoru expressed agreement as she continued to drive. "Regarding this issue, I have a whole list of questions I'd like to ask the Elders. Originally, a policy of absolute secrecy was enforced over that place for a very long time, most likely over a thousand years. But since an explosive situation is definitely unavoidable, we thought, why not just add Kusanagi-san to the mix to detonate it." "It is a rather helpless situation, Sayanomiya Kaoru." "Well, not exactly. As a secret matter related to G.o.ds, there is always a high probability that G.o.dou-san will be involved eventually. In that case, why not call him in from the very start?" "I see. If you put it that way, I certainly agree." Liliana nodded in agreement with Kaoru who had just described G.o.dou as if he was a walking bomb. G.o.dou was about to object with indignation. "That said, is there actually a n.o.ble One in eternal slumber with the sword? In this world, there is no such thing as an island in a place with neither land nor sea. The description is virtually the same as King Arthur and Excalibur sleeping in Avalon the land of the fairies." The silver-haired knight mused further, surprising Kaoru. "As befitting of Liliana-san. Amakasu-san had also made the same observation. Yamato Takeru, King Arthur, and the war G.o.ds of steel are all implicated in this legend." Thus, a dangerous statement was made. The car carrying the group entered the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway from the Kawasaki-Ukishima junction. Pa.s.sing through Shuto Expressway that was illuminated by a shade of dusk, they entered the tunnel that traversed Tokyo Bay. Continuing forward would reach the parking area of the Umihotaru artificial island. From there, the Bousou Peninsula could be reached via the Kisarazu link route. As the stage where a myth took place, this sea could be traversed in dozens of minutes. "The so-called floating island is commonly believed to be the 'Palace of the Floating Island' where Yamato Takeru's father, Emperor Keiko held his banquets when he was visiting his sons in the Kantou region." Kaoru explained along the way. It was almost dark by the time they reached Kisarazu. Kaoru stopped the car somewhere near the coast. "I've been waiting for everyone!" "Ah, a very great welcome to our special guests from far away." Two familiar faces approached as they got off the car. Seishuuin Ena and Amakasu Touma. Ena was wearing her usual uniform while Amakasu also had his usual sloppy suit. In that regard they were a rather good match for each other. Along with Kaoru who was impeccably dressed in a winter jacket, this notion of usual attire was further reinforced. "Eh, Erica-san didn't come?" "She said she was busy and had to return to Italy." Ena muttered "hmm" in response to the simple explanation. A frantic expression flashed across her face. But Ena ignored G.o.dou's gaze of curiosity and went on to greet the others. Yuri smiled in response to Ena's usual enthusiasm, while Liliana greeted generously. "By the way, can we talk for a moment?" Amakasu called out, not to G.o.dou, but to Yuri and Liliana. "An object called the Heavenly Reverse Halberd is currently being excavated. To be honest, it's impossible to guess at this point what the thing will look like. Therefore, we hope you two can lend your eyes of wisdom." Basically they wished for a.s.sistance from the power of spirit vision. In response to the request to "view" the excavation site, Yuri and Liliana replied in the following manner: "I cannot be certain if anything will be seen, but let us go to its vicinity for now." "I see. Perhaps as a witch, I might be able to a.s.sist the investigation." "...Do I have to go along?" Without thought, G.o.dou asked. Because he was slightly intrigued. "Oh, Kusanagi-san, all things considered, you still have many other matters to attend to." "Umm, yes, can Your Majesty accompany me for a bit?" — ? G.o.dou found it rather strange. The laid-back special agent had many hidden interests. Be that as it may, his tone of voice was slightly different from usual. This time, it was a serious tone of voice. But before G.o.dou could voice his doubt, Ena held him by the hand and dragged him away. "Then I entrust all matters to everyone. Especially you, Kusanagi-san, please handle things appropriately." Amakasu, Yuri and Liliana on one hand. G.o.dou and Ena on the other. As the two groups departed for different destinations, Kaoru bid them farewell with a strange remark. Part 3 "So Seishuuin, what do you want me to do?" Walking along the beach at night, they were on the Kisarazu sh.o.r.e facing the sea of Edomae. G.o.dou spoke to Seishuuin Ena's back as she walked ahead of him. "Why do we have to come here? I feel like there's nothing to see here." The coast at night was completely devoid of people. The two of them had walked for close to ten minutes along the beach. The only light sources were street lamps from roads in the distance, starlight and the white glow of the half moon. Well, there were no inconveniences since G.o.dou had excellent night vision. Ena was probably the same. But then again, what was the point of taking this walk in the night? "Probably about time? Actually Ena has a request to make of Your Majesty." "Request?" "Yes. Actually, Ena only found out about Your Majesty's school festival after it had ended." Ena stopped and turned around. Facing G.o.dou, she stared at him with a nervous expression. "I see. I tried calling you, hoping you could come in case you were free, but couldn't get through." "Umm, it's like this... But anyway, Ena thinks it's quite a shame." Though gloomy for an instant, Ena immediately recovered her spirits. "I missed a rare chance to enjoy a festival together with Your Majesty. Because of that, I asked Yuri and Liliana-san to let me have today to enjoy with Your Majesty. Starting now." "So that is what you mean by request?! Which is why we deliberately came to the beach..." G.o.dou felt like surrendering. "I knew it. Then Amakasu-san and Kaoru-san's unnatural att.i.tudes were because they were part of the conspiracy!?" "Yes. Those two knew about the school festival but remained silent about it. I threatened them to make up for it, or else I'd withdraw my a.s.sistance. Luckily Erica-san isn't here, so we won't be disturbed." It had been mentioned before that the Hime-Miko were not subordinates of the Committee. They were honored guests who provided a.s.sistance through invitation. Nevertheless, it was probably unnecessary to lean on authority for a matter like this. Ena acted even more coyly towards the stunned G.o.dou. "Hey, Ena would sometimes like to have some private time with Your Majesty, may I?" Now that it was brought up — it finally occurred to G.o.dou. He had never spent any time alone with Ena. Almost every time there were others present. "...Well, occasionally should be fine." Intentionally avoiding someone for the sake of being with someone else was not G.o.dou's preferred way of doing things. But it was true that he had very little opportunity to spend time alone with Ena. He certainly could not bear to turn down her openly expressed good will. "As expected of Your Majesty, it's exactly what Ena wants!" "But how are we going to enjoy ourselves? There's nothing here." A beach in early winter. Furthermore, it was night. During daylight hours on a warm day might have been fine, but the current conditions were really not quite suited for amus.e.m.e.nt. Well, the winter constellations shining in the sky could be thought of as a backdrop, while the rustling of breaking waves could count as background music. Alone with just the two of them. The stage was set for a romantic and dramatic scene. But what terrible casting of actors! For the current two people present, this situation was a bit too inappropriate?! "Look, an empty can over there. Let's play kick the can?" "It's no fun with only two people, right? Or maybe it's not that fun anyway." Just as expected, the conversation quickly became awkward and meaningless. If the other person was Erica, Liliana or Yuri, she would likely have taken other measures to get intimate. Nevertheless, G.o.dou felt rea.s.sured. Although he had gained some familiarity, he still did not have much confidence in getting along with girls. "Ah, there's even a soccer ball here. Back when Ena was a child, I'd mix myself into the boys' games and defeat them completely." "But then again, beach soccer isn't something for two people to play..." Ena recalled her childhood memories of personal athletics. She must have been the type to dribble the ball alone, repeatedly penetrating the defense to score. He already had one of those super athletes amongst his companions — Erica, who relied on individual performance even in team matches. Ena was probably the same kind of player as her. If they played baseball, they would probably be trump card fourth hitter material. "Well in that case, it finally comes to this? There happens to be two, just the right number." Ena bent over to pick up two branches, each less than a meter long. Most likely driftwood brought to the beach by the waves. "This is a duel between two people. Ena versus Your Majesty one on one would be nice." "Nice? I can't defeat Seishuuin that easily." "Ah, come to think of it, Your Majesty doesn't know any swordsmanship or martial arts. If other people went through the same experiences as Your Majesty, they'd probably rush off to learn some self defense in a last ditch effort." "Really? But I don't think it'd be particularly fruitful." G.o.dou was reminded of Salvatore Doni. That man's existence was proof of the fruitlessness of that course of action. For idiot Doni, only training in swordsmanship was meaningful. First of all, he was an unorthodox genius, and secondly, mastery of swordsmanship would enhance the power of that guy's authority. In contrast, Kusanagi G.o.dou was not a genius. Even if he trained for fifty years, he would probably not develop martial arts to a level that could match G.o.ds or Doni. In that case, he should figure out how to use his own advantages to match those monsters instead — Because following the same path as that guy is definitely not the way to defeat him. ...No no, wait a minute. Could it be possible that as a Campione, G.o.dou himself had already been deeply influenced by that idiot? G.o.dou began shaking his head in an attempt to dismiss the unpleasant possibility. "Anyway, let's first decide how to play with this thing... How about this?" G.o.dou received a branch from Ena. Using the tip he drew a large tic-tac-toe grid on the beach, and marked the center with an "O." "Your Majesty wants to play this... If that's the case, Ena will follow suit." Ena drew an "X" on another spot. Finally, the two competed in games of tic-tac-toe. "Together with the kids who played baseball, I used to play this a lot." "Ah, I know it. As a child, I only had occasional free time. Though many children had handheld games, Ena did not." "Seishuuin always played outdoors when you were a child like me?" "Uh huh. Probably until third grade or so. Very naughty, right? But very soon, swordsmanship and Hime-Miko training began. And there were other things to learn too. Often traveling to the mountains, Ena no longer had time for those kinds of pastimes." "Ah... So Seishuuin had all sorts of responsibilities. You must have been quite busy." The child of nature who took pride in her swordsmanship. The talented girl equally well-versed in cla.s.sical learning and martial arts. As a Hime-Miko, a Yamato Nadeshiko skilled in various areas. Her complicated experiences could not have been cultivated in one day. G.o.dou's childhood achievement was improving his baseball ability. Overall, he felt he could empathize with the great sacrifices Ena had made for the sake of building up all those accomplishments. "I can't come to Your Majesty's side very often these days, which is why I wanted to see you at the school festival. Now that I think about it, I have never gone out for fun with Your Majesty and the rest of the group." Ena continued to talk as she played tic-tac-toe. Rather than an intensifying compet.i.tion, it was more like a game for killing time as they chatted. "If that's the case, just come next time." "Eh?" G.o.dou's expression naturally became very warm and gentle. Without really knowing how to express her femininity, Ena's personality was rather simple and laid-back. There were a couple unnecessarily stubborn aspects and occasions when she was very hard to get along with. But they could all be attributed to her unusual upbringing, which likely gave her little chance for normal social contact. "I still have two more years before I graduate. Even if you missed this time's, Seishuuin, you can still come next year. So like I said, there are more chances. I will gladly accompany you any number of times." It was hard to believe, but Seishuuin Ena was a very easy girl to get along with. There was no other girl that he could spend time like this as if she was a male friend. She would be most welcome to visit any time she wanted. Concluding with such a feeling, G.o.dou smiled rea.s.suringly. "Ah okay. Thank you, Your Majesty. I'm very happy to hear that coming from you." "You don't have to thank this kind of thing. That's too polite." "Ah, but then again, isn't Your Majesty frequently in danger? Isn't it a concern whether you'll live to see this time next year? But don't worry, no matter what, Ena will always guard Your Majesty with her life!" "Don't say something so foreboding. I still intend to live a good life and die peacefully!" The two chatted casually, joking around. But Ena suddenly frowned. She threw away the branch and stood up. With a wary gaze she surveyed the surroundings. Without asking "what's the matter?", G.o.dou also stood up silently. It was at this very moment that the intruder's ident.i.ty was revealed. "It's here, Your Majesty. Please be careful." Ena whispered softly. The Hime-Miko of the Sword directed her gaze towards the other side of the beach — near where a boat was parked. A young girl was approaching from there. The familiar face of a beautiful p.u.b.escent girl. Nevertheless, that power and solemnity emanating from her body definitely belonged to no ordinary human. "...It's her." G.o.dou felt his body br.i.m.m.i.n.g with power, having entered a state of battle. He had already sensed immediately that the one approaching was a G.o.d, the mortal enemy of every Devil King Campione. However, her ident.i.ty was most unexpected, even to G.o.dou. The young G.o.ddess slowly made her way over. Heretic Athena was her name. Part 4 "How fares thee? Kusanagi G.o.dou!" The G.o.ddess called out loudly. Her eyes were entirely focused on Kusanagi G.o.dou. She completely ignored Seishuuin Ena beside him. To G.o.ddess Athena, even the premier Hime-Miko's existence was akin to weeds or pebbles on the roadside. On the other hand, the Hime-Miko of the Sword took out her j.a.panese sword from its bag. She entered a battle stance — But G.o.dou signaled with his eyes, ordering her to stand down. This opponent was out of her league. "One arriveth once more, to ascertain thou fulfillest thy promise of past." "Promise... That one?" In the battle against Perseus, Athena had bestowed upon him the hint to deciphering the mysterious divine hero's ident.i.ty. Without a doubt, he had a made promise then. He definitely had to return the favor and accept one request from the G.o.ddess. "One hath but a single wish. A duel, Kusanagi G.o.dou." Athena's eyes were infused with golden light. Fluctuating with a seductive brightness, those serpentine eyes flashed brilliantly in the dark night. "Like blazing fires which die down and burn out before long. Like wind strongly swirling into a vortex, gone quickly like the pa.s.sage of a hurricane. Thou shalt fight with one and scatter the beautiful sparks of battle!" "What!?" Even though he had been instantly bewitched by the snake's seduction, G.o.dou immediately yelled out. "I should have said so at the time. I will not accept requests that bring trouble to others. Have you any idea how much destruction will result from a battle between us!?" "When a G.o.d dueleth a G.o.d-slayer, 'tis only natural for the people to be sacrificed." Such incomparable stupidity — was what Athena's eyes of despise seemed to be saying. "Certainly there will be sacrifices if we fight. Dost not forget, thy fellow humans trample gra.s.s and flowers beneath their feet as they walk the earth. 'Tis the same principle." Sigh. Realizing what the G.o.ddess was trying to convey, G.o.dou had nothing more to say. After all, G.o.ds were all identical in this regard! "Such are the constant ways of heaven and earth. Worryest not thyself, Kusanagi G.o.dou." G.o.ds were set apart by their mentality of not caring for any individual human. All humans on earth were indiscriminately grouped together as simply "humanity." Even if half of the world population were to die, it would only feel like "oh, humanity still survives" to them. This must be why the concrete thought of "people died, cities destroyed, trouble caused everywhere" never occurred to them? That was what G.o.dou reckoned. "Our battle shall cause people to collapse, the earth to suffer, and the heavens to sigh. But no matter, humanity and nature constantly endures suffering for endless repet.i.tion. We only need to rouse our hearts in excitement and rage on." "How can that be acceptable! Stop talking nonsense!" G.o.dou could not stop himself from shouting gruffly. To this G.o.ddess of wisdom perhaps it would come as a surprise or be regarded as desecration. "Anyway, I don't want to hear such a wish. Choose a new one!" "Nay, those words cannot be taken back." Athena coldly rejected G.o.dou's refusal. "As a G.o.d-slayer, thou art still an immature brat who hath hardly lived as a Devil King. As a result, one had hoped to wait until the fruit ripeneth. One wanted to rely on this immortal life, patiently waiting for the proper time of harvest. However, the leisure for that, no longer existeth..." The G.o.ddess' appearance remained the same, that of a beautiful young girl's. However, that beauty was certainly like a great serpent standing before its prey. Staring with serpentine eyes, baring snake fangs hidden deep within those red lips. Violent and ferocious as a snake! Noticing Athena's fighting spirit, G.o.dou secretly trembled in fright. "So, dost not hold back and fight. Tonight shall be our final duel." "d.a.m.n it, no other way..." Faced with Athena's fierce advances, G.o.dou made his decision. Battle was unavoidable. In that case he must come up with a plan to handle it. He must find a way to minimize human casualties and property damage. He must stay as far away as possible from city streets, and contain the G.o.ddess with all his power. Though he could not be certain if that was possible, that was the only way — "Hmph, those are irrelevant concerns, G.o.d-slayer." But suddenly, Athena whispered softly to G.o.dou as he racked his brains. Cold as a snake, but also with a slightly disappointed tone of voice. She was like a senior looking at a junior from far above, worrying about his immaturity, hoping he would show dramatic improvement and growth. "A hero destined to become a fierce tiger, but merely a tiger's cub right now. Thou mayst carry a warrior's instinct, but a warrior's mettle is still lacking by far." G.o.dou gradually became intrigued. Why? Why did she change her tone of voice after those fierce words earlier? "Fu — In that case, one shall mercifully do thee a favor once more. Forgetst the request for now. Kusanagi G.o.dou shall be shown his foolishness!" The G.o.ddess bore a fearless smile, and turned to leave. In the direction she had come from. Step by step, she walked away from G.o.dou. "To prepare the proper stage for our unfavorable destiny. When the time cometh, thou shalt display thy mettle to this G.o.ddess. Only then shalt thou be worthy of bargaining with one!" So she means she will be back? Listening to those words of farewell, G.o.dou stared blankly at Athena's departure. "She's gone, Your Majesty. That was the one who came to Tokyo earlier in spring this year..." "Ah yes. The great snake G.o.ddess..." G.o.dou replied hoa.r.s.ely to Ena who had kept a stance ready to draw her sword. Without a doubt, that was Heretic Athena. However, something did not feel right. G.o.dou could only feel there was something, but could not express into words... Part 5 With the pa.s.sage of night, it was now Sat.u.r.day. G.o.dou and friends stayed at a nearby hotel arranged by Amakasu. Athena's reappearance had been reported. Both Liliana and Yuri, who had faced the ancient G.o.ddess before, paled as soon as they heard the news. Amakasu scratched his head as if extremely troubled. "In case something happens, we need to prepare countermeasures..." In a rare moment, even the elegant Kaoru was musing solemnly for once. Anyway, their original purpose here was to safeguard the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. The excavation had completed around daybreak. Hearing that the work had completed while they were sleeping, G.o.dou and his group went to take a look as soon as they finished breakfast. The solitary torii stood near the Kisarazu sh.o.r.e. The ma.s.sive digging operation undertaken for "a certain object" buried beneath it. Over the course of many days, the underground barrier was carefully removed as the heavy machinery continued to dig from the surface. After 8am, G.o.dou arrived at the excavation site. "I have some mundane business to handle, so I'll leave Amakasu-san in charge for the remaining proceedings." Having said that, Kaoru left for Tokyo. Most likely to make all sorts of preparations in light of Athena's reappearance. The remaining members of the team, Yuri, Liliana, Ena and Amakasu accompanied G.o.dou to the site. The excavation site had already been sealed off by tape. Around ten-odd local policemen were standing on guard, making it seem like some sort of murder crime scene. "These are real policemen here, but the majority of them are affiliated with us. If you count the ones who are not visible right now, there are even more of them." Amakasu casually explained. With that, G.o.dou and his group were like criminal investigators entering a crime scene for inspection. "...This is the Heavenly Reverse Halberd?" The "object" dug up that morning had been placed on a blue plastic sheet. On first glance it appeared to be a very ordinary stick. Roughly the length and thickness of a pencil. The material was unidentified, with a beige color like carefully varnished timber. It felt very solid to the touch, though not as hard as stone, but much harder than plastic. "Last night, Mariya Yuri and I tried to investigate this object while it was still being excavated." Liliana reported. "There is no doubt that it is a divine artifact. Just like the Gorgoneion you were entrusted with last time. The object you see is only its surface, but hidden within it is the crystallization of divine wisdom and power, a symbol of the immortal and indestructible." It was going to turn into a conflict with G.o.ds again. G.o.dou concluded with certainty as Liliana continued. "Had it been made of the essence of the earth like the Heraion, then there would be the possibility of destroying it before it becomes the object of contention. However, this type of divine artifact is indestructible. Very likely, even a [Heretic G.o.d] would not be able to fully destroy it." "That's why it was buried underground, and secretly guarded..." G.o.dou sighed. Things would be so much easier if it could be destroyed... "Fortunately, spirit vision about the Heavenly Reverse Halberd had been received." It was Yuri's turn to report. "This is likely a divine artifact related to earth and rock. I can sense the Ml T21 power of Izanagi no Mikoto 1 J and Izanami no Mikoto 1 J used to give rise to the primordial sea and Yamato'- 3 ^ country. "...Izanagi and Izanami?" "Yes. The legendary G.o.ds who created the land of Yamato and founded the country." This was the extent of Yuri and Lilana's findings. G.o.dou examined the Heavenly Reverse Halberd once again. What should he do with this thing? It did not feel safe to carry around personally, but there was no other way. Besides, it happened to be the size of a pencil — 'Til just keep it in my shirt pocket for now." "Even though this is a treasure that can shake the world, but I guess it's an appropriate measure. I can't think of anywhere safer than the bosom of Kusanagi-san." G.o.dou felt rather sad that he could not bring himself to openly disagree with Amakasu's inauspicious comment. He pocketed the divine artifact. Had it been a lucky charm for traffic safety, it would probably be treated differently. "Actually, I tried reaching grampsy just now." Ena suddenly spoke up. Ena's grampsy — the Old One, namely, the ancient G.o.d Susanoo who lived in the Netherworld. "Ena was hoping to get some information about this halberd-thing, but it didn't work. The 'sound' should have been transmitted to the other side, but there was complete silence with no response." As the guardian of the Hime-Miko of the Sword, Susanoo and Ena had always kept in contact by cellphone. But this time, he was apparently playing the dirty trick of pretending to be away(?). "It feels like he doesn't want to give directions..." As G.o.dou grumbled, Ena took out her j.a.panese sword and pushed the sword guard with her thumb, loosening it from its sheath. This was the preparatory posture for unsheathing a sword. The stance known as "koiguchi wo kiru."^ "White... G.o.ddess. No, it is something else?" Yuri was whispering softly, her eyes focused somewhere in the distant sky. Something that the others could not see. She must be seeing something through spirit vision. "I get it. A visitor is approaching..." A cellphone began to vibrate. Amakasu slowly drew out his phone and responded to someone who seemed to be a friend. "Kusanagi G.o.dou, be on guard." G.o.dou nodded to acknowledge Liliana's warning and prepared his stance. — In the next instant, a young girl suddenly manifested. At the location in the sky where Yuri had been staring. With brilliant blonde hair styled into curls, her dream-like beauty was like an antique western doll made by a master craftsman. She wore a black dress that was reminiscent of funeral attire. A young beauty twelve-years-old or so whose every aspect left a deep impression. "Greetings for the first time, Kusanagi G.o.dou-sama." An adorable voice as exquisite as gemstones. A G.o.d — she was not. But she could not possibly be anyone ordinary. What was she? Despite looking human, she could not be categorized as human. G.o.dou stared at the ominous young beauty. "Pray forgive me for directly addressing by name Your Highness, the G.o.d-slaying [King]. My name is Guinevere, and I have appeared here to inform Your Highness of certain matters." G.o.dou frowned at the elegant choice of words that did not match the young girl's appearance. "If it's just to listen to a few words, I don't mind. But I am a stingy person who doesn't go around with ready gifts for sudden visitors. Is that okay?" "Of course, Your Highness." Guinevere ignored G.o.dou's cold reception and smiled glamorously. This must be the person Lu Yinghua mentioned. It was just intuition, but should not be too far from the truth. "I've heard about you before. You're the companion of that woman deeply involved with the Nikkou incident, right?" "You are correct. Indeed, Guinevere is a Divine Ancestor as Asherah's kin." Her expressions, manner of speaking, motions. Everything felt full of pretense, like some kind of superficial layer drawn on top. A Divine Ancestor — an existence completely unlike the G.o.ds. G.o.dou had heard that they were former G.o.ddesses, but Guinevere was acknowledging humans other than G.o.dou. And also, she was nonchalantly keeping tabs on them. "My purpose here today is to offer a plan to Kusanagi G.o.dou-sama." The blonde Divine Ancestor smiled elegantly as she spoke. "Plan?" "Yes. Guinevere already found out. As Your Highness' mortal enemy, the G.o.ddess Athena has once again appeared in this island country. As long as they are nearby, G.o.ds and G.o.d-slayers will mutually attract, encounter, face off and slaughter one another." Calmly explaining like a little bird singing a song. Guinevere continued speaking softly with a melodic voice. "Your Highness and Athena's duel is inevitable. I have a plan that will prove effective when the time comes, if only Your Highness will hear it." "Something effective in a battle with a G.o.d?" It sounded as trustworthy as stock market tips guaranteeing ma.s.sive profits. "Hohoho. Suspicious? As befits the young but experienced warrior! But please rest a.s.sured, Guinevere is providing a countermeasure that only takes effect in a battle with Athena!" "...Hey, that's you, right?" Ena addressed the witch in a soft voice as if casually humming a song. "You are the one who was watching Ena and the others as we stood on guard. There's a kind of similar feeling. You must be aiming for the Heavenly Reverse Halberd, right?" G.o.dou nodded, aware of the sharp senses of the Hime-Miko of the Sword. For this Guinevere to appear now, it could not possibly be unrelated to the unearthed divine artifact. "Yes. Indeed, Guinevere certainly wants that sacred treasure — it is hoped that Your Highness would offer up that unique divine artifact!" Admitting to her crimes, the Divine Ancestor began to approach. Walking towards Kusanagi G.o.dou. Taking leisurely footsteps like a girl strolling on a plain blooming with flowers. "When Your Highness encounters Athena once more, and my plan works successfully, would Your Highness be so kind as to grant Guinevere's wish? I do hope to obtain Your Highness' consent." It felt like a joking request full of pretense. Of course G.o.dou was going to ignore it. Everyone else felt the same way. Ena drew her sword and Liliana summoned II Maestro. The two girls stepped forward, blocking Guinevere's path. However, some spell must have been used — The Divine Ancestor's dress-clad body moved past the swordsmen and came before G.o.dou like the wind. Was the Heavenly Reverse Halberd the target? G.o.dou went on full alert. He was not confident he could defend if she used that ability again and aimed for his pocket. G.o.dou took out the divine artifact and tossed it to Amakasu waiting on the side. What a competent ninja. He caught the artifact splendidly and put it away in his bosom. In the instant when G.o.dou was readying his stance. "Hohoho, Your Highness is full of openings as rumored." Guinevere approached with quick light steps. It did not seem very fast, but she closed the distance just like that, before G.o.dou could mount any defense. The witch drew her lips close to G.o.dou's face. And kissed him. "On the other hand, this kind of generous leniency can be considered proof of a [King]'s magnanimity. A brilliant genius who is not concerned with such trivial things! Guinevere has great hopes for you, Kusanagi-sama!" Was it instruction magic? Knowledge was flowing in through the mouths pressed together. No, that was not all there was to it. There was more feeling to it like some sort of secret know-how. — What is the Holy Grail? The sacred treasure that absorbs the essence of the earth and stores incomparable magical power. In order to unlock its functions, these are the required procedures, knowledge, sensitivities, incantations, rituals, magic... Rather than simply transferring knowledge, this spell taught [Magic] on a much higher level! By the time G.o.dou realized this, Guinevere had already separated her lips from him. "I beseech you to vanquish Athena and add new victories to your repertoire. The [Spell of the Holy Grail] will be the trump card for this purpose. Till we meet again!" Bidding farewell, the blonde witch disappeared. As suddenly as she had appeared, she vanished instantly like mist. The witch Guinevere had left the excavation site, leaving behind this magic of unknown purpose. "What on earth is she planning?" "Her goal seemed to be transmitting knowledge to G.o.dou-san..." Yuri came to G.o.dou's side as he puzzled over what happened. "Do you feel a headache or some kind of mental instability?" "Nothing, I don't feel especially different." G.o.dou a.s.sured Yuri who was worried. In truth, a Campione's magic resistance and vitality were extraordinary. Extremely resilient. Disregarding the authorities of G.o.ds and devil kings, the chances of receiving serious injuries from enemy magic was exceptionally low. Indeed, Divine Ancestors did not have magical power on par with Campiones. G.o.dou understood concretely with his own body. However, Yuri was watching him with sorrowful eyes. "What's wrong, Mariya? I'm completely fine." "No... The witch was very right. G.o.dou-san really does have too many openings, it is slightly disappointing..." Yuri spoke with great worry. "D-Disappointing? Why?" "Even if she was not an ordinary person, for a female to steal your lips in the first encounter, it is certainly extraordinary. G.o.dou-san must be deliberately opening yourself up to those kinds of advances..." Yuri's appearance displayed a kind of dream-like beauty as she mournfully voiced her concerns in a soft voice. The mood was completely like a disheartened wife complaining about a husband who frequently spends the night with a lover instead of returning home... Was this the feeling commonly known as lying on a bed of nails? G.o.dou found it impossible to bear. In the past he might have felt less of a burden when sternly reproached by her. But as their relationship deepened, the sense of guilty conscience seemed to be weighing heavier — Furthermore, even Liliana was joining in the fray. "I see now. Precisely due to the existence of such openings, anyone skillful enough can take advantage of them and intrude successfully. Mariya Yuri's diatribe has substantial implications." " !?" The exceptionally loyal knight was now glaring at G.o.dou with eyes of reproach. "In addition, the incident just now has reminded me of something else. What did you do last night when you were alone with Seishuuin Ena? No, I have no intention of reproach. Nevertheless, even as the housekeeper I did not receive any report afterwards... I believe this type of carelessness is related to the 'openings' pointed out just now. If that is the case, then correction is imperative." No intention of reproach. Liliana said those words as she stared at G.o.dou with eyes of reproach. Both the incident just now and last night as well!? It would be best not to make too much of a fuss here. Greatly troubled, G.o.dou could not help but signal to Ena with his eyes, hoping for her to lend a helping hand. However, the Hime-Miko of the Sword smiled shyly instead. "Hmm. Even though Ena has all sorts of opinions on what happened just now, last night was very fun and enjoyable, spending time with Your Majesty with just the two of us. I can't help it, sorry for not saying anything until now." An answer like that. Wasn't that simply pouring oil on the fire? Clutching his head in his arms, G.o.dou found unexpected aid. Wisely ignoring this pandemonium all this time, Amakasu suddenly picked up a call on his cellphone. "...Yes, yes. Finally appeared, eh? The location is Kawasaki... Near Ukishima. Is that right, already fallen to the enemy? Still in motion? Towards Chiba after all? I see. From the Ukishima Interchange towards the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway tunnel? Hmm, in that case there's not much time left..." G.o.dou and the rest fell silent. Amakasu soon finished the call. "I regret to bring bad news. Athena has finally appeared in public. Just like last time, she has released all her powers and is heading straight towards this place." Thus ended the report. References 1 . t Izanagi: a male deity who bore many of the islands, deities and forefathers of j.a.pan with his sister Izanami. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/lzanagi 2. t Izanami: a G.o.ddess of creation and death, the former wife of Izanagi. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/lzanami 3. t Yamato^H): ancient name for j.a.pan. 4. t Koiguchi wo kiru($ln literally means "cutting the carp's mouth," the act of loosening a sword from its scabbard. http://en.wikipedia.Org/wiki/File:Koiguchi-wo-kiru-p1 01 0071 .jpg