Campione! Vol 10 Chapter 1

Chapter 1 - Smoldering Devil Kings Part 1 On this particular day, Alexandre Gascoigne had appeared in Taipei. Taipei — the well-known central city of Taiwan. He had gone to the Ningxia Road Night Market. A night market filled with merchandise stalls and snack shops. Every night, the market was crowded with locals and tourists who came here for the distinctive roadside snacks. People could either eat while standing or sit at tables next to the stalls. However, tonight Alec picked an aged and worn down restaurant instead. Sitting down at a table outside the shop, he arbitrarily ordered a few dishes. Since this type of night market did not offer much in terms of alcohol, he brought his own canned beer. Steamed dumplings, boiled dumplings, rice dumplings with meat fillings, spiced sausages, oyster omelettes, etc. Just as the dishes were placed on the table, the one he waited for arrived. "...It's been a while, Alec." "Ah yes. Approximately a year." The other person greeted using Min Nan^ dialect, so Alec replied in the same language. The one who had arrived was a gla.s.ses-wearing seventeen or eighteen-year-old girl. Called Cecilia. She was wearing a modest sweater over a white shirt with an una.s.suming skirt. Even though her face was quite cute, it was lacking in glamor. Alec had become acquainted with her a few years ago when traveling in the far east. In order to return the favor she owed to Alec that time, she became a member of [Royal a.r.s.enal]. "Then show up at St. Ives from time to time... Wait a minute, have you ever been to headquarters? If memory serves me correctly, you haven't." St. Ives. Where the organization led by Alec, [Royal a.r.s.enal], had located its headquarters. Situated in the region of Cornwall on the westernmost tip of England. It was a little seaside town. "Your memory is correct. I have never met any comrades apart from you." Cecilia spoke with a monotonous and indifferent tone. She was a girl who seldom showed emotion through her voice or facial expressions. "Let's leave it at that... That said, lazy as you are, you still accepted this invitation so readily?" "Because I wanted to see you." "Stop joking around. It's making the beer taste funny." Her joke instantly rejected, Cecilia fell silent. Even though she was essentially a reticent and expressionless girl, she almost seemed to be showing a bit of resentment. Nevertheless, Alec paid it no mind, because there were more important matters. "You were the one who communicated a wish to see the Island-Fishing Needle. That's what you came for, right?" Despite her young age, Cecilia was an outstanding Daoist priestess. Daoists. The term used for those who studied ancient Chinese wizardry, Daoist arts, that had been pa.s.sed down for generations. At the same time, she was well-versed in oriental myths and legends. "I don't mind either way." "Or in other words, that is the sole reason." She was casting that slanted gaze of subtle resentment again. Was there something she wanted to say? "This is the Needle in question." Alec did not mind entering the main topic. He took a rod out from his shirt pocket. It had roughly the same length and girth as a ball point pen, and appeared to be made of beige plastic. This was the divine artifact obtained from j.a.pan, the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. "By the way, I've mentioned to you before. Myths that probably originated from southern Chinese sea-faring tribes first crossed over to Taiwan, then spread to southeast Asia, followed by Polynesia and Micronesia. In the process they also spread to j.a.pan." "Yes, I remember." "In the creation myths of sea-faring tribes, the world began as an ocean. An endless ocean without any land. At that time, the primordial G.o.d of creation lowered a fishing line and fished dry land out of the ocean to create islands. That was the birth of land — the story of the country's founding." Alec casually explained as he brought food to his mouth with chopsticks between gulps of beer. "From 4000 BCE to 3000 BCE, the people of the sea traveled south on crude boats across the Pacific, migrating to various parts of the world. This resulted in the scattering of East Asian oceanic creation myths. Of course, this includes j.a.pan." "Izanagi and Izanami's founding of the country." "Correct. Izanagi and Izanami were on the primordial sea where there was nothing but minuscule floating and suspended debris. Dipping in the Heavenly Reverse Halberd and stirring, dry land was made to appear, creating the islands of j.a.pan. Well, using a needle as a hook, stirring with a rod, it doesn't really look the same on first glance..." "That doesn't pose a significant problem." Alec nodded at Cecilia's brief and casual response. In ancient j.a.pan, the halberd for fishing — there were records of it being a tool for catching fish. All of these little stories were identical in essence. "This halberd is a divine artifact with the same name. Naturally one would think it is the country founding tool." "Alec intends to investigate this thing?" "Yes. I want to find out exactly what powers this artifact holds, and how to use them flexibly." Cecilia coldly remarked to Alec: "No way. Born of mortal flesh, there's no way we could do that. Give it up?" "Not necessarily. Actually I already came up with one or two ideas." "...Really?" Cecilia looked impressed. Beneath her gla.s.ses, her pupils were wide open. Alec shrugged at that honest expression of admiration. "It's nothing mind blowing. Deducing from the myths, this thing should be a divine artifact related to the divine aspects of water or land. In that case, if a similar G.o.d is found somewhere, just use this rod and observe what changes may occur, then proceed with verification." "...In any case, don't do that in this country. Too dangerous." Alec smiled knowingly at her refusal. All along, he had no intention of doing something worthless like that. "If that's the case, only one option remains. Find divine dragon bones that are related to either the earth or the sea, and use them to make contact with this thing. To a.s.sist me, first investigate thoroughly all records of mother earth G.o.ddesses and snake or dragon deities that have manifested here in the past hundred years." "...Dragon bones. There is that option indeed. But Alec, trying to find that kind of thing is even harder than finding G.o.ds." "Hard, but not impossible. It's worth considering." Listening to his subordinate's opinion, Alec was completely nonchalant. For the sake of solving all sorts of mysteries, he had stepped foot into many sacred domains. This level of exploration was merely on the level of warm-up exercises. "Considering the fact that discovering them could mean avoiding meaningless battles, it will be far more efficient than searching for a G.o.d. Don't overlook that." "I didn't. It's just that your ideas are very strange." Cecilia was expressing simple and easily-read emotions for once. She sighed deeply. "Alec, you are truly extraordinary. In matters of bringing chaos to the world, no one can surpa.s.s you. Compared to the other Campiones, you are definitely ahead." Casual praise. But abjectly notorious. "I'm nowhere near as barbaric or reckless as those people. Don't even think of grouping me together with them." Alec could not help but retort displeased. A few days pa.s.sed. Alec was strolling casually in Los Angeles. He had been to Taiwan, the Philippines and even the interior of China. In these past days, he had journeyed far and wide across many different countries and regions. In the end, he chose to finish his trip here. Alec was operating alone. Having given Cecilia new instructions, he sent her off on a separate mission. He took a taxi cab from the airport to the great city on the American west coast. Los Angeles. An ethnic melting pot. A major economical and industrial stronghold. The city of evil that was swirling with crime. The capital where depravity and prosperity vied for domination. Hidden in this "chaotic" city were many whose existences would not be tolerated by common reason. Wielders of unnatural abilities who obtained magical powers by selling morality and conscience to the devil — sorcerers. Last but not least, there was John Pluto Smith! Alec did not believe he could avoid dealing with him during this trip to America. Steeling his determination, Alec took the taxi to Samantha University at Los Feliz. He had been there only once, a few years ago. The internal layout of the university had remained completely unchanged. Consequently, everything went smoothly for Alec. Getting off from the taxi, he began making his way without even glancing at the directory. The route had already been memorized. Arriving at Professor Joe West's research lab in the modern languages department, he knocked. Receiving a reply of "Please enter," he pushed the door open without reservations. Two people were already present. The elderly African-American with the intellectual appearance and a Caucasian woman with fiery red hair. The former was naturally Professor West. A world-renowned researcher of fantasy literature and benevolent mage. His power as a fairy doctor was also unmatched in Europe. As for that woman, she was most likely Annie Charlton. A student in West's cla.s.s. The impressive bespectacled beauty who was the same age as Alec. A calm and composed character who took action with great initiative. She also worked as John Pluto Smith's subordinate, apparently performing detective work or the like — The Professor seemed to be in shock while his student displayed cautious surprise. Previously, they had already seen the Campione known as the Black Prince. "I remember today's visitor should have been a Mr. Gascony introduced by Pires-kun. What kind of funny idea is this?" Professor West scrutinized Alec's face as he spoke. "Exactly as was said. I am Alex Gascony. A Frenchman heading to Oxford for study, and a student hoping to meet you today. That's the story." Alec admitted the pretense without reservation. After all, it was likely that the fairy doctor would have seen through a disguise. Hence, he openly showed the face of the Black Prince and made a visit under an awkward alias. "Hmm. I see." Using the name of Alexandre Gascoigne to make a visit to a facility related to John Pluto Smith would have been strange behavior that would easily develop into diplomatic problems between Devil Kings. In order to avoid undue alarm, Alec had chosen to arrive in such a manner — Presumably having figured out Alec's intentions, the Professor shrugged and sighed slightly. "I guess I'd better ignore the fact that the name is reminiscent of a certain someone who is cause for concern. No, I think I'd better think more carefully about it!" "Come on, at a time like this, formality is more important than substance. Hence this is enough." "Then for what purpose has Mr. Gascony come to this place?" Annie Charlton interrupted. She glared very sharply at Alec. If the Professor was met with danger she would immediately step forward to protect him. Such resolve was clearly visible. What an amazing heroic female. "I don't plan on hanging around for long, so let's cut to the chase. Dragon bones — or using the way they call it in this city, that would be 'Angel's Remains.' Please lend them to me for a brief little while." "What?" "What are you intending to do with that sort of thing?" Alec smiled proudly in response to Annie and the Professor's surprise. "For experiment and verification." "Are you planning to bring turmoil to the world again?" "So, what are you going to do? Even though I intend to perform an act of charity by removing a seed of disaster from the world, people who don't mind their business would probably disagree. Whether what I described is an act of good or evil, there is no way for you to ascertain." Alec seemed to be deliberately evading Annie's question. "Anyway, I need dragon bones for this reason. Professor, I received news that you obtained dragon bones from Sichuan province in China roughly ten years ago. If you'll lend them out generously, I won't have to waste any unnecessary effort. I hope you will consider it." Unnecessary effort. Namely, theft. Whenever there was something he wished to obtain, no matter what kind of wealth, authority, or magic the owner possessed, he would never shy away from the act of theft. Being concerned with society's notions of morals or common sense was completely not his style. "You are a terrible man! Despite your usual serious demeanor and behavior, once you get into action, you reveal that horrible troublemaking nature of yours!" West shook his head with great annoyance. "Very well, As you wish. I will provide you with the 'Remains' I possess." "Joe! You cannot decide so rashly!" In response to Annie Charlton's warning, Joe West answered with deep consideration. "Asherah has perished, and the [King of Flies] is disbanded. Los Angeles is currently celebrating long awaited peace that had not appeared for years. It's time to put aside the conflict between Pluto and the Black Prince. Besides, Annie, I don't believe he is the kind of Devil King who would easily resort to theft and take what he wants without warning." In a duel between two Devil Kings, the outcome was completely uncertain. This was not a matter of who was stronger. Because a Campione's talent lay precisely in seeking victory no matter the odds, achieving success through apparently foolish but bold action. However, the matter of winning or losing was not only limited to 'theft.' Joe West was correct. This was Black Prince Alec's personal victory. He was the Devil King of divine speed and the labyrinth. The one who vanquished innumerable foes using suspicious authorities. Furthermore, he was skilled in magic and strategy. This sort of disposition made him the most powerful eccentric thief in history. Finally with great reluctance, Annie nodded in agreement to her teacher's words. Part 2 On a table in the research lab was a shallow dish. In it sat a milky-white little stone. "Reportedly, when a [Heretic G.o.d] manifesting on earth loses their material body, in extremely rare instances, a portion of their remains survive as flesh and bone. Chinese Daoists call them 'Dragon's Bones' while North American magi call them 'Angel's Remains.' Isn't that right?" "Ah yes. But of course, flesh and bone that is completely different from any other creature on earth." As Alec muttered while examining the stone, the Professor replied. "When deities pa.s.s on, their bodies either turn into sand and collapse or change into stone and shatter. On those occasions, if a part maintains its form by chance, then it becomes worshiped as a sacred relic, to be used as a ma.s.sive power source for magi. Well, it is an exceptionally rare thing to find." The Professor looked down at the stone in the shallow dish. "This was the object found by chance from a place in China where the creation G.o.ddess Nuwa^ had descended." "Nuwa. Also a mother earth G.o.ddess possessing a 'snake' divinity." Alec took out the Heavenly Reverse Halberd from his pocket, and brought it close to the milky-white stone. The Halberd proceeded to lengthen. From the length of a ballpoint pen it became almost a meter long. The change rendered Professor West and Annie speechless. "As expected, it reacted to the mother earth G.o.ddess' remains..." Alec knew from his decade long experience in adventuring. The "remains" of deities carried divine properties far surpa.s.sing divine beasts in level. They could very well provide the same effect as contact with a G.o.d — Alec smiled at the smooth progress of his plan. So, how should he use this Halberd? Let's try stabbing the tip into the floor and see... It went through. It almost felt like sticking a rod into mud. The Heavenly Reverse Halberd's tip was embedded into the ceramic tiled floor. "Before the founding of the country, amorphous land was floating and suspended like globules of fat. Izanagi and Izanami were tasked with 'maintaining and stabilizing this floating country,' and were bestowed the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. The two G.o.ds stood atop the Floating Bridge of Heaven, inserting this Halberd into the sea, and started to stir..." Alec recalled the pa.s.sage in j.a.panese mythology. He attempted to stir the tiled floor using the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. Amazing. The ceramic tiles gradually lost hardness and cohesion. In the beginning, it felt like mixing concrete, but gradually the sense of resistance disappeared, like ice-cream melting. "...Melted? Did it lose its form?" "Usina the j.a.panese way of description, it should be called the 'Leech Child'^ state." The Professor and Alec, as well as Annie who had remained silent all this time, were all focusing their gaze on this phenomenon. Mere dozens of seconds ago, the ceramic tiles were still a part of the floor. But now they had become a flowing liquid with a color that was hard to describe. On first glance it appeared transparent and colorless, but continued scrutiny found it to be pure white, then glittering with light. Flashing all sorts of colored light, it kept changing colors like a kaleidoscope. Within it, all the colors of the human world could be found. Colorlessness carrying infinite color. "...Gascony. Or rather, Alexandre Gascoigne. What is the 'Leech Child'?" Annie suddenly questioned, but not in a student's manner. Or more accurately, it was like the royal tone of one king questioning another as equals. "That was the deformed child who was the firstborn of j.a.pan's creator G.o.ds Izanagi and Izanami. His body was said to be amorphous and lacking in bones. Soon after his birth, he was washed into the ocean and buried in darkness..." As Alec explained, he suddenly had an idea. He reversed the clockwise motion he was using to stir the Heavenly Reverse Halberd, and tried going counterclockwise instead. After stirring for a while, the sense of resistance gradually increased. The feeling of stirring water soon became that of stirring ice-cream. Then it became like stirring concrete, and finally, completely solid. ...The ceramic tiles on the floor were restored. Well, except there was a spiral pattern in the center of the tiles, so it was not exactly back to its original appearance. "The 'island-fishing' and 'country-founding' myths pa.s.sed down in East Asia and the South Seas.^ Could this Halberd be that divine artifact reappeared...? The key to forming land and even giving birth to the Leech Child..." Alec's mind was a turbulent sea of recalled facts and imaginings. The strongest [Steel]. The king who manifests at the end of eras. Past incidents in j.a.pan. The Heavenly Reverse Halberd's requisite powers. Also, Avalon and Guinevere... "Come to think of it, now should be a perfect opportunity to cut those cursed ties with that woman..." Alec used the magic of [Dismissal] to dispel the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. This allowed it to be retrieved when necessary by the magic of [Summoning]. European knights used this magic whenever they needed to carry their swords and lances with them. Alec proceeded to turn to the owner of the lab. "My apologies for taking up your time. My matter has finished so let me take my leave." "For us, that is the greatest favor you could do." Towards Alec's statement, Annie responded with a displeased expression: "Then leave, before you bring disaster to our city. Alexandre Gascoigne, I sincerely hope you never step foot in California ever again!" Leaving the research lab, Alec turned himself into lightning and headed towards the sea. In order to test the functions of the Heavenly Reverse Halberd again. Satisfied with the results, he decided to spend the night in Los Angeles. It was a room facing the Pacific Ocean, in a high cla.s.s hotel. Having arranged room service and finished his meal, his bed was already prepared. However, Alec was sitting on a chair by the window, deep in thought. Traveling to the west coast of North America all the way from East Asia, he was both exhausted and jetlagged. Be that as it may, there was still a mountain of matters to consider. Alec had cast "barrier" magic in the room beforehand. Simple magic for warning about the approach of danger. Nevertheless, it was more than sufficient for the Campione of divine speed. Whether fleeing, fighting, or confusing the enemy, the choice was up to him. As a result, Alec simply spoke indifferently when the magic alarm sounded. "If you want to visit at night, shouldn't you call first?" "This level of rudeness is completely acceptable for a gentleman's room that was booked under a fake name. Avoiding unnecessary toil is my style." What kind of mystic technique or method had been used? What should have been a locked window was now flung open, causing the curtains to flutter in the wind. Casually stepping in from outside the window was a black-masked eccentric. Furthermore, this room was on the tenth floor of a high-rise hotel. The mask's visor had a design reminiscent of insectoid eyes. Under the cape which resembled a demonic bird's wings, an eccentric person was dressed in an opera-style high cla.s.s outfit. "Gascoigne. You and I had agreed to a non-aggression pact. Does your current visit not violate those terms?" John Pluto Smith. The dark Devil King who lorded over Los Angeles had appeared. "I'm not visiting as Alexandre Gascoigne... I have already communicated this fact to your subordinates." "From the abysmal att.i.tude you showed to my friends at the lab, this statement of yours is as good as junk." Smith shrugged his black-caped shoulders. It was an exaggerated motion that one would find in a theatre performance. The ordinary hotel room had essentially been turned into a theatrical stage. "In the coastal waters of Los Angeles... In the Channel Islands' vicinity, an island not recorded in maps had suddenly appeared. This strange phenomenon happened around 1500 hours today." "Oh?" "Furthermore, at around 1700 hours, this island suddenly vanished again." "Really?" "It was reported to me by a benevolent mage who sensed ma.s.sive magical power and deliberately went to investigate. By the way, Gascoigne, you seem to be personally carrying a divine artifact?" "Purely coincidence. So what?" Alec replied nonchalantly. "With regard to this matter, it's in your best interests not to get in my way." "That really sounds oh so attractive... What are you planning, Gascoigne?" The mask's visor glared at Alec's handsome face. "It is true that your grand imagination and initiative are your strong points. However, if memory serves me, you have never applied those strengths towards anything apart from personal hobbies. Even one such as I, believes that you need to be treated with caution." "Stop talking nonsense. I am neither as self-centered nor as destructive as people say I am." "That I can agree. However, compared to common morality, you place greater importance on your personal aesthetic ideals. Furthermore, your reckless, inconsiderate, and troublemaking personality is exactly as rumored. Hence I believe public opinion cannot be dismissed." "...Eh." "Consequently, trusting you unconditionally would be equivalent to a dangerous gamble." Alec smacked his lips, declining to retort. This melodramatic cosplay maniac was different from China's freakishly strong girl or Italy's idiot. If one were to offer negotiations, this man could at least be counted on to respond rationally. The agenda must be pushed. "How about eliminating the leader of the Divine Ancestors? A plan to root out and cleanse the seeds of trouble. This should have personal relevance to you." "Divine Ancestor. A term last heard many months ago." "Entrenched in North America, sorcerers have been cla.s.sified into various factions. One of them is composed of witches who worshiped as queens the European Divine Ancestors of old. That group of witches crossed over from Europe to the American continent during pioneering days, and wreaked much havoc." Alec brought up the dark side of history known only to magi. Of course, Smith was well aware of it. After all, the [King of Flies] he had spent the last few years fighting was a faction of sorcerers related to witch lineages. Finally, the black-masked king nodded and went "True." "These witches' secretive activities and troublemaking preparations, caused the Protestant clergy to enter a pathological fervor on witch hunts. This resulted in the torture of many innocent women. A most tragic event." "...So, Gascoigne." The mask's visor pointed straight at Alec as Smith began to speak. "In other words, is this what you are proposing? The Divine Ancestors, who still hold great influence over sorcerers — in order to deal them a devastating blow, I should turn a blind eye to your secretive dealings." "Ah yes. You don't want to fight a second Asherah, right?" "Hmm." Smith paused silently for a brief moment, then began to mutter slowly. "True, this is mutually beneficial. However." "What is it? Do you need evidence that I am speaking the truth?" "Demanding that from a man like you would be useless. Only because your wit and imagination are indeed exemplary. However, when unexpected incidents flare up, it is also true that you abandon those qualities without hesitation." "That's not abandoning. It's just ad-libbing in response to changing situations!" Alec could not help but make a violent outburst at the accusation. "Our opponents have always been G.o.ds and our peers, the Campiones. Precisely because common sense and logic are never applicable to these opponents, reacting flexibly is only natural." "Well. I can't disagree with that... But for you, being flexible can result in the original plan going completely awry. Probably that time when the fake Grail had appeared, you began taking reckless action on your own, and ignored your negotiations with that Princess." Princess. Naturally, Smith was referring to the former spokesperson of England's Witenagemot, daughter of Duke G.o.doddin, Alice Louise of Navarre. Alec could not believe that that woman had disclosed their secret agreement so easily...! Alec was secretly incensed by Smith's sarcastic tone. However. "Having said that, I am also well aware that Alexandre Gascoigne's plans do succeed on occasion, numerous times... Very well, I shall turn a blind eye to your rudeness this time." "Really. Then I apologize." Alec calmed down from Smith's words. Even though he was nowhere near as melodramatic as that masked eccentric, the Black Prince was also a rather vain Campione. Having ended the conversation, John Pluto Smith bowed elegantly and left through the window. Exactly how a famous actor would exit the stage after the curtain call. In less than twenty seconds, Alec took a brief glance out of the window, but there were no signs of the black-caped black-masked hero. He had vanished like a puff of smoke. "Still a man who comes and goes so mysteriously." After grumbling to himself, Alec took out his cellphone. He made an international call to his trusted subordinate in England, Sir Iceman. Alec succinctly summed up for the legendary knight the "plan" he had crystallized over the past few hours. For the organization leader to be abroad for extended periods of time, strategizing and taking action personally, Sir Iceman could only lament against the reckless plan. '...Also, protests against your activities have been received from those working under j.a.pan's Campione. They demand us to disclose the whereabouts of Alexandre Gascoigne which we don't even know. We managed to contain the situation for now.' "Ignore them. I will handle it directly later." To be on the safe side, Alec quickly added: "Just handle things at headquarters as usual. If Kusanagi G.o.dou intrudes in a rage, retreat immediately. There is no need to directly confront disasters such as G.o.d-slayers. As much as possible, just let him waste his energy." 'As you wish. With the leader absent, that's the best we could do anyway.' Alec retorted coldly in reply to Iceman's sarcasm. "Don't say it like that. In order to permanently sever this ill fate with Guinevere, taking back what is owed is only right. It would be stupid to waste an opportunity to lay a trap for that woman. So let me act as I wish for a while." This was late at night on Thursday in Los Angeles. At the same time, it was early Friday evening in j.a.pan due to the time difference. Furthermore, the Campione who lived in the east had already begun his move. Part 3 One week had gone by since Athena had pa.s.sed away in j.a.pan. During this time, the world's busiest Devil King was Alexandre Gascoigne. On the other hand, j.a.pan's Kusanagi G.o.dou carried on with his ordinary life. No matter what, he was still a student. Going to school was his duty. However, that did not mean he was leading a peaceful life. In fact, it could very well be described as the opposite. The upcoming Sat.u.r.day and Sunday were part of a long weekend along with Monday. During this time, G.o.dou had been making preparations with great determination. The entire detailed story follows. It was the following night after G.o.dou had fought Lancelot and seen Athena off as she pa.s.sed away. G.o.dou was greatly surprised to read the arrived letter. 'Seeing as this object piques this humble servant's interest, one shall retain custody for now. By this simple expression of borrowing intent, your consent would be most desirable. The object in question shall be returned after thorough experimentation. Should the object in question be deemed to require our protection, the experiment could possibly be extended, one humbly prays for your understanding — Alexandre Gascoigne.' This letter had been delivered to the History Compilation Committee. Signed Alexandre Gascoigne, the Campione who had taken the Heavenly Reverse Halberd by force. G.o.dou recalled that the guy was nicknamed something like Black Prince Alec. "...In other words, he's saying 'I borrowed it because it interested me, so don't be offended if I happen to decide not to return it.' What the heck, this guy!" G.o.dou objected as he finished the letter. It had reportedly been sent via magic to the Sayanomiya residence at Sanbanchou in Tokyo's Chiyoda ward. After returning from Kisarazu, he did not head home immediately but visited the Sayanomiya residence to examine Alec's letter and discuss their next move. "So this is Black Prince Alec's infamous 'borrowing note'? This is my first time seeing one." The one grumbling was the next Sayanomiya family head, Sayanomiya Kaoru. Occupying the drawing room in the house were the three: the cross-dressing beauty, G.o.dou and Erica. A three-person emergency meeting. Ena had been forcibly hospitalized for overuse of divine possession. Yuri and Liliana were still at the hospital undergoing examinations for sequelae from the petrification. Amakasu had also gone out to oversee the handling of the aftermath. "That guy has apparently done this kind of stuff many times, right?" "Yes, that person has plundered sacred treasures and divine artifacts collected by various European magic a.s.sociations. His explanation is always 'Now this is interesting, let me check it out.'" Erica shrugged as she answered G.o.dou's question. "He prefers dramatically penetrating heavy security to steal after a prior declaration of intent. Unless there was no opportunity to put on a good show, then he simply leaves a borrowing note and takes by force. Also, items of particular significance are never returned but kept and displayed at his a.s.sociation [Royal a.r.s.enal]." "It's said he boasts of imitating the style of traditional British imperialism." England's pride, the British Museum. Within it was displayed a mult.i.tude of artifacts plundered from various places around the world, a rather well-known fact... So that Campione was deliberately imitating it. G.o.dou was reminded of the description "the eccentric man with dismal character" that he had heard before. "The English Campione, no mistake about it, right?" "Yes. It is often rumored that amongst the seven Devil Kings, his interests were slightly different from the others." Kaoru answered as she gave Erica a glance. "Regarding this matter, shouldn't Erica-san be particularly informed?" "That's right. We European magi have been greatly troubled ever since that particular person became a Campione twelve years ago." Erica began to lead the conversation. "Marquis Voban, Her Eminence Luo Hao, Sir Salvatore, John Pluto Smith-sama, and Kusanagi G.o.dou. These five are all 'warriors.' They only shine with true radiance and feel satisfaction during battle. But limited to G.o.ds or other Campiones as opponents, of course." "...Can you stop grouping me with those people so easily?" Even though G.o.dou complained about the inappropriate example, Erica continued unfazed. "Since the Black Prince is a Campione after all, I believe he has to be a 'warrior.' But from the way he acts, he is also an 'explorer' and an 'adventurer' at the same time." "Explorer and adventurer...?" G.o.dou began to ponder the unexpected description. "So you mean that guy not only lives to fight, but also seeks meaning in life by challenging mysteries and dangerous things?" "An apt description. Indeed it is so. Thus resulting in this note we were talking about." "It's not that different from that idiot Doni who keeps saying 'have a little duel with me, please'..." G.o.dou continued to grumble as he looked at the note Erica was referring to. "However, why did he steal the Heavenly Reverse Halberd? Could he intend to give it to Guinevere's gang?" "I consider that extremely unlikely. The Black Prince has been enemies with Guinevere for many years." "If that's the case, then let's just put aside for now the issue of that Gascoigne guy." Hearing Erica's answer, G.o.dou remarked. "If the Heavenly Reverse Halberd is in his hands, Guinevere and her group's attentions should be focusing on him, right? Then during this time we can prepare for other things." "Other things?" "Yes. To prepare for the battle against that guy — Lancelot." G.o.dou a.s.serted in response to Kaoru's question. Hearing the war G.o.d's name, both the cross-dressing beauty and Erica nodded. "Even though it is baseless intuition... I believe that guy will come to j.a.pan again for a fight. I want to be ready when the time comes." Lancelot du Lac who had killed Athena. Without even thinking, G.o.dou had declared he will fight that G.o.d again. Furthermore, his heart believed that day would not be far away. Or perhaps, it was a G.o.d-slayer's instincts that made the prediction. In that case, forging the [Sword] in preparation for Lancelot's duel was imperative. The following day was Monday. Yuri and Liliana missed cla.s.s because their checkup at the hospital had been extended. Then came Tuesday. a.s.sured that they were fine, the two had returned to school. On this day, G.o.dou and the rest were having lunch in the courtyard. Even though they had been meeting for lunch on the roof all along, it was now the middle of November. The blowing wind had become rather chilly so they changed their lunch location to the courtyard. Since the surroundings were enclosed by the buildings' walls, it was quite warm as long as there was direct sunlight. Having sat down for lunch, G.o.dou received the report of "Black Prince Alec, whereabouts unknown." "G.o.dou, you asked me to express your displeasure concerning this incident, right?" "Ah yes." "Hence, [Royal a.r.s.enal] had been contacted. As their second-in-command, Sir Iceman acknowledged the Black Prince's appearance in j.a.pan which occurred two days ago." Erica reported with a glum expression. "They expressed ignorance as to the Black Prince's current whereabouts." "Normally, when an organization's leader is absent, shouldn't they know exactly where he is instead?" G.o.dou exclaimed in surprise. Where did Black Prince Alec disappear to after stealing the Heavenly Reverse Halberd from Amakasu? The History Compilation Committee's special agents also seemed unable to find out. What a mystery. "In actual fact, Sir Iceman happens to be acquainted with my Esteemed Uncle since childhood. Here are his exact words." A legendary knight on the same level as Erica's uncle, Paolo Blandelli. 'My utmost apologies. Alexandre Gascoigne has completely ignored our efforts to contact him for the past few days, and his status is currently unknown. It is most regrettable, but it happens quite often unfortunately.' 'In that case, the only option is to wait for him to contact us. Our chief's location, what he's doing, facing what kind of danger... We usually find out only after the fact. And this time, even j.a.pan's Campione has expressed his displeasure. Really, my stomach pains are going to kill me...' Those were the words of the man known as Sir Iceman. Listening to the voice through the phone, Erica could not discern any intent to conceal the truth. Rather, it felt like she was catching a glimpse of a loyal va.s.sal's troubles over an excessively unruly master. "I too, have heard stories of Prince Alec's excessive preference for acting alone, often leaving his subordinates behind. In that case, it could very well be the truth." Liliana spoke as she opened the lunch basket. "Of course, the possibility that he is deliberately hiding the truth remains. But still, their explanation is quite plausible." Liliana glanced at G.o.dou as she handed the hamburger over to him. Held between two pieces of bread was a beef patty, tomatoes, lettuce, bacon, avocado, and cheese, secured with a plastic toothpick. Other than that, she had also prepared pickles, onion rings and more. Despite the sumptuous menu, rather than eating, G.o.dou was more concerned about the knight's att.i.tude. "What's with that strange look?" "Ah, no. I was just thinking whether all the various Campiones were natural troublemakers without exception." "It really is true. They are a group to whom common sense cannot be applied." Why was even Yuri gazing at G.o.dou as she spoke? Recently, it felt like the girls around him were increasing the frequency of such biting commentary... It always gave G.o.dou an uneasy feeling. "Anyway, it's unclear where in the world Black Prince Alec is currently located. That person has the ability to fly around like lightning. Even if he had been traveling from the Arctic to Antarctica these few days, it would come as no surprise." In a rare moment, Erica declared defeat as she gracefully received and sipped the tea handed to her by Yuri. "A genius who can move and act instantaneously in a composed manner. Acting as if the surrounding people would just get up and follow him. Had he been the boss of Amadeus Mozart, he would have made a really good role model." "Let's just put that guy's issues aside for now. No matter what, handling the problem of Lancelot would be the most practical course of action." "Heretic Lancelot is a very difficult to understand divinity." Liliana said to G.o.dou as he pondered. "He only acts as a guardian for an extremely rare number of top witches, protecting them secretly. Neither Erica nor I know what his prototype is." "I have something to say to G.o.dou regarding this." Erica interrupted. "If you want to find out the secrets of witches, just go ahead and ask a witch. Since this is a secret not even Liliana knows, the candidates for counsel are obviously limited, right? Hence, I've already attempted to contact that person, and received a response of 'I can offer a.s.sistance on a personal level."' "That person?" "Yes. The highborn one in London." G.o.dou nodded. After the battle with the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, he had heard about her origins. Amongst those he was acquainted with, the only witches surpa.s.sing Liliana were Lucretia Zola and that person. "That person also said, 'if you want to approach the mystery of Heretic Lancelot, bring the miko over.'" Hearing Erica pa.s.sing along the message, G.o.dou looked to the Yamato Nadeshiko sitting on his left. Miko. Of course it meant Mariya Yuri. G.o.dou immediately spoke: "May I trouble you, Mariya?" "Y-Yes. Of course you may!" Yuri nodded and blushed for some reason. "As long as G.o.dou-san wishes... No matter where, I will always accompany you..." "That'd be a great help. Thank you very much." "Even though it bears no mentioning, I will come as well. To take on the role of contacting that person, the prime candidate is obviously your knight, Erica Blandelli." "Of course. Things would be difficult without you there." G.o.dou instantly agreed to Erica's interruption. The thought of the blonde red maiden not accompanying him never crossed his mind. "Liliana, can I leave travel preparations in your hands?" "You, Erica and Mariya Yuri. That is three in number, right? ...Umm, can you tell me if you will be needing one more person...?" The one who called herself Grand Chamberlain, Liliana, answered rather awkwardly. "Isn't that a strange thing to ask?" "Y-Yes. Well then, it is decided." After hearing G.o.dou's deliberately ambiguous response, Liliana immediately brightened up in mood. Travel preparations would be made for four people. Next they only had to wait for the day of departure — Just as G.o.dou nodded to himself... "But G.o.dou-san, are you planning to go this weekend?" "Ah yes, that's the plan." "You already spent last weekend away from home. Will everyone in the Kusanagi household allow this?" Only when prompted by Yuri's worried reminder did G.o.dou finally realize. Last week he had spent two consecutive nights away from home on Friday and Sat.u.r.day due to the battles with Athena and Lancelot. If he set off after school this Friday, it would be having excursions two weeks in a row. Any normal high school student's family would never allow such a thing. In this regard, the Mariya family which supported their daughter's responsibilities as a Hime-Miko, as well as the Blandelli and Kranjcar families which do not have guardians in the first place, were quite atypical. However. "I don't know if I should feel lucky or not, but the guardians in my family are quite unusual so there shouldn't be a problem." As he imagined the responses of the Kusanagi household, G.o.dou explained without a worry. If his mother Kusanagi Mayo was being asked for permission to go on a trip: 'Oh? Don't bother bringing back souvenirs. I'm not interested in food I don't like. If you insist on a gift no matter what, I'll only accept alcohol.' Something like that. She would answer without even caring to ask where the destination was. If his grandfather Kusanagi Ichirou was being asked for permission to go on a trip, he would probably smile suddenly and gaze at G.o.dou like some sort of accomplice. My legal guardians are truly extraordinary. G.o.dou marveled in surprise as he imagined. "However, would your little sister Shizuka not say anything? Actually yesterday, during the tea ceremony club's activities, she was very angry because G.o.dou-san spent the night outside without even telling her where you went." "...Eh? Her, something like that happened?" Little sister Kusanagi Shizuka. G.o.dou was greatly surprised to hear the unexpected name. Now that he thought about it, she did complain to him when he returned from Kisarazu. "Right. She's the one person who belongs in the normal category." G.o.dou muttered as he hugged his shoulders. Well, she was also the little sister who had shown remarkable potential during the Kusanagi clan's new year celebration by nonchalantly opening a bottle of whisky. "Man, I'd better find a suitable excuse, or else..." He could not let his family worry. G.o.dou grumbled as he thought to himself. "So, would you like me to intercede with Shizuka on your behalf?" "Mariya?" "Yes. I shall tell her that a matter urgently requires G.o.dou-san's a.s.sistance, and that you need to go somewhere a little far." Yuri suggested with a calm smile. That's right. Under the pretext of helping friends, perhaps Shizuka could empathize. Because the younger sister had such a compet.i.tive spirit, she loved making fusses over nothing. "That could work. Thanks a lot, Mari — " "I don't want to rain on your parade, but I would suggest otherwise. If you seriously go that route, it will only pour oil over the fire." "It is as Erica says. Please do not make unnecessary provocations towards an injured beast." Erica and Liliana both voiced their objections to Yuri's proposal. "Actually, I think if this reason was used, my little sister wouldn't object." "Yes. Little sister Shizuka is a person with a gentle heart..." G.o.dou and Yuri were mystified. "Gentleness is irrelevant here." "The problem here lies in using Yuri to bail you out. Naturally, using either Liliana or my name won't work either. You're going to have to find a more effective excuse, G.o.dou... Well, if worse comes to worst, you can simply leave without saying a word, thereby preventing any resistance in particular." The genius negotiator, the [Diavolo Rosso], shrugged. No matter what, ignoring the little sister too much was a bad idea. What should G.o.dou do? Wednesday arrived the following day, but G.o.dou had yet to come up with an explanation for his sister. G.o.dou went to visit Seishuuin Ena. Having fought desperately on her own in the battles a few days ago, Ena was about to return to her ancestral home at Chichibu for recuperation. G.o.dou had heard that her body had acc.u.mulated an extraordinary amount of fatigue and injury due to overusing divine possession. "Yes, even though it's true my body continues to feel quite heavy, it's still barely okay, and I'm fine with going along with Your Majesty. But I can't believe everyone wants to lock up poor Ena in the old home!" The Hime-Miko of the Sword voiced her displeasure to the visitor G.o.dou. She was on a hospital bed. "Seishuuin, you worked very hard already and should rest properly now. Erica has returned so you don't have to worry about me." "That may be true, but Ena still wants to stay with Your Majesty." In a rare moment, Ena was acting cute like a spoiled child as she pleaded with G.o.dou. Maybe she was feeling lonely and worried due to her weakened body? G.o.dou placed his hand on Ena's shoulder and persuaded her gently. "If you force yourself too much and wreck your health, I will be very troubled. I want to be together with a lively and healthy Seishuuin. So please, get some rest obediently during this time." "Mmm, come on... I can't believe you'd say it like that, Your Majesty is so sly." Faced with G.o.dou's sincere request, Ena pouted as she nodded. "No matter how reluctant I am, this is the request of my husband after all. Ena will rest properly." "1-1 see. I'm sorry it has to be like this." Even though G.o.dou grew frantic at being called her husband, he smiled with rea.s.surance. "However, if there is a next time... Ena needs a kiss, oh? Otherwise, Ena will not listen to Your Majesty's orders ever again." Shyly throwing a little tantrum, Ena was irresistibly cute. Nevertheless, that was a truly problematic demand. Panicking as he tried to come up with an answer to muddle through ambiguously, G.o.dou was instantly trapped by Ena. "Because this is a promise. Keep your word properly!" Despite the unexpected development, G.o.dou managed to convince Ena to recuperate obediently without issue. The remaining problem was Shizuka. He was in big trouble this time. Would he need to resort to departing unannounced? G.o.dou continued to contemplate the troublesome issue. Part 4 Thursday arrived at last, the day prior to departure. Walking home from school, G.o.dou had almost resigned himself to leave without telling Shizuka, but an encounter with the childhood friend changed the situation. "Hey G.o.dou, you came at the right time." Walking along the shopping street in Nezu Sanchoume, he was stopped by his twin-tailed childhood friend with the forceful personality, Tokunaga Asuka. She must have just returned from school as well, since she was still in Tokyo Metropolitan High's uniform. "Early next month is Shizuka-chan's birthday, right? Have you prepared a gift?" "...Now that you brought it up, yeah you're right." Asuka instantly frowned at his answer. "Look at you. You must have forgotten completely. Unbelievable! So of course, you still haven't gotten a gift, right?" "Uhyeah, nothing at all." "Oh come on! If you take such sloppy care of girls, even if it's Shizuka-chan, she will be angry for sure. You're a really useless older brother!" As always, Asuka was scolding mercilessly. "Taking care and whatnot... She's family, my sister, right? I shouldn't need to take great pains, right?" "It's how you should act as a man." Really? G.o.dou began to ponder Asuka's words with a "Hmm." "Well, fine. How about going shopping for a gift with me this weekend? Which day would be better for you, Sat.u.r.day or Sunday? But I'll need to work on Sat.u.r.day, so only the morning is free." Making plans on her own before G.o.dou could respond, Asuka proposed with great ferocity. "Sorry, I've already got plans this weekend. Neither Sat.u.r.day nor Sunday works." G.o.dou refused. Since he had long distance travel plans, there was no time to spare for Asuka. "Shopping only takes an hour or two, right? You can't even spare a little time like that?" "I need to make a brief trip abroad... And all sorts of troubles will be coming up later. I feel like it'd be a disaster if I can't handle that guy properly, so I have no choice but to go." Unable to give out any details, G.o.dou could only word things ambiguously. Will she accept this explanation? Just as G.o.dou worried over what he should add to the explanation, Asuka sighed deeply with a great "hah~" "Oh fine. Then let's go shopping the following week. That's not a problem, right?" "Right. Nothing's planned. But I can't guarantee emergencies won't come up." "Worry about it when the time comes. We'll just adapt flexibly as things change. Then let's decide the details next week." G.o.dou was amazed at the childhood friend's response. He could not believe she did not raise a fuss over his explanation. Asuka was someone whose scoldings had always been as common as greetings to him. She proceeded to remark knowingly: "Since you described it that way, you must be going on a trip for the sake of friends, right? All things considered, you were a guy who went all the way to Kanazawa to help out a friend in need back when you were only in sixth grade." "Ah yeah. Now that you brought it up, something like that did happen." It was a nostalgic memory he had almost forgotten. At the time, a friend of G.o.dou and Asuka's had run into trouble after transferring to Kanazawa (the one in Ishikawa prefecture, naturally)... And G.o.dou departed after leaving a voice message of "Just gonna have a look." G.o.dou had originally planned to go alone, but Asuka went along because she was worried. The Tokunaga family went into an uproar, believing "Could they have eloped!?" As a side note, the Kusanagi family seemed to have reacted with "Nothing special really" in complete nonchalance. "Those fleeting footsteps of yours really scared me. And I was completely awed by your savings which did not match your ident.i.ty as an elementary schooler. By the way, I've heard about your victories in the strange contests held during the Kusanagi clan's New Year gatherings, who knew you could gamble and win money from that..." It was true indeed. The entire travel expenses of the two elementary schoolers were borne by G.o.dou alone. Asuka had not brought enough money but G.o.dou turned out to be rather well off. Every New Year's, the entire Kusanagi clan gathered for a banquet followed by a mix of oriental and occidental games including Hanafuda, cee-lo, backgammon, poker, mahjong. Children were supposed to be forbidden from partic.i.p.ating, but somehow G.o.dou was able to slip past that restriction at the age of six. In the beginning, he partic.i.p.ated mostly for fun. However, after trying it out and winning big, he was forced to partic.i.p.ate every year thereafter as the adults said "this year you will be defeated" in their quest for restored honor. G.o.dou's successes were probably thanks to the tricks taught by the elderly distant relative who had been the subject of the legend of Kantou's strongest gambler in his youth. G.o.dou kept his winnings as rule-breaking "New Year's money" and saved it all up. This became something of a tradition. Next New Year's, it's probably time they start giving me a break, thought G.o.dou. "So, make sure you're free next Sat.u.r.day. Since her birthday will be here soon, do try to be more mindful of Shizuka-chan's affairs, okay?" Asuka went home after offering this advice. Well, Asuka's not that bad after all. G.o.dou once again reaffirmed the qualities of his childhood friend. Arriving back home, he found Shizuka who happened to be drinking tea in the living room. "Ah, Onii-chan. Welcome home. You came back early today." Seeing his sister, G.o.dou suddenly had an idea. Why not try out Asuka's advice for once? "Hey Shizuka, I'm going to be spending this coming weekend at a friend's place, so I probably won't be home from Friday to Sunday." "Eh!? Onii-chan is staying outside overnight again!?" As expected, Shizuka entered a rather dangerous mood. "I'm sorry, there was something planned last week that couldn't be cancelled no matter what. However, I will be free on the 3rd of next month. Where should we go out for some fun? Let's also ask Asuka out as well since it's been a while." December 3rd was the birthday of Kusanagi Shizuka. Shizuka was unimpressed by G.o.dou's sudden proposal. "W-What do you think you're doing? Could it be, you are trying to use this to hide something!?" "There's nothing to hide. Since I've been away from home so much recently, we haven't had as much time to spend together. Wouldn't it be nice once in a while?" G.o.dou recalled his childhood memories when the two of them would often play together. Since both parents were always busy with work, the mother had moved back into her old home after the divorce, and so the grandfather became the "guardian," resulting in a decrease in opportunities for the siblings to spend time together alone. This was one of the reasons why Shizuka was overly sensitive about her brother's conduct. Perhaps in her mind, the brother was the only one who would never leave her side. But that was too naive a notion. Hence, G.o.dou would try as much as possible to show her some care. Finding her brother slightly repentant, Shizuka angrily turned her face away. "Onii-chan is really terrible, saying something like this, you don't treasure me at all. I have plans too, so don't just suddenly say this kind of stuff." "Suddenly? Isn't this advance enough in notice?" "Despite how I look, I'm actually quite occupied. However, if Onii-chan repents your infamous poor conduct by that time and goes out with the little sister for some joyous fun, it's not like time can't be squeezed out from her schedule." In other words, going out together was fine? How troublesome of her. But then again, this style of speaking was very much in Shizuka's character. As he pondered how this obvious lack of honesty made her unbelievably cute, G.o.dou replied: "Ah yes, I've repented and changed my ways, so let's make things like old times once in a while, okay?" "Hmph, suddenly saying something so reasonable, it's very suspicious. But it would be a shame if Onii-chan's repentance were to be wasted. Let's spend this year's birthday together. But you have to remember! If your conduct becomes strange again, I will mercilessly ignore you next year!" The little sister declared as she furiously continued to keep her face turned away. G.o.dou replied 'Til remember." At the end of his wits, he displayed a smile at the same time. And so G.o.dou finally resolved all the pressing personal problems, and was prepared to set off. At last, the weekend arrived — it was Friday after school. Kusanagi G.o.dou brought his luggage and left for Haneda Airport. Accompanying him were the three girls, Erica Blandelli, Mariya Yuri and Liliana Kranjcar. The destination was England's Heathrow Airport. Plane tickets and other preparations had all been arranged through the History Compilation Committee's hospitable efforts. Towards London, for the sake of meeting the witch of the highest rank, Princess Alice. A journey began once more. References 1. t Min Nan(IIM): a family of Chinese languages spoken in Taiwan and parts of mainland China such as southern Fujian, eastern Guangdong, Hainan, and southern Zhejiang. http://en.wi kipedia.org/wiki/Min_Nan 2. t Nuwa(:£JE): a G.o.ddess in ancient Chinese mythology best known for creating mankind and repairing the wall of heaven. http://en.wiki pedia.org/wiki/N%C3%BCwa 3. t Leech Child(4i-?-): p.r.o.nounced "Hiruko," the original name of Ebisu(HJ:b2I), the j.a.panese G.o.d of fishermen, luck, and workingmen, as well as the guardian of the health of small children. He was born without bones and the first child of Izanagi and lzanami.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebisu_(mythology) 4. t South Seas(j^n¥): the Chinese name for the geographical region south of China, particularly Southeast Asia. The term came into common usage in self-reference to the large ethnic Chinese migrant population in Southeast Asia, to be more precise, in Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanyang_( region)