novel
| ← Ch.043 | Ch.045 → |
I timidly turned my gaze to look at Koneko-chan, but—.
Koneko-chan had half-submerged her face in the hot springs while wearing a gloomy-looking expression, and was blowing bubbles in the water... Huh? Is Koneko-chan still not feeling good... ?
—But, at that moment, my consciousness began to recede.
Yeah, I understand. With the blood streaming down from my nose, I was losing myself in the heat from both the hot springs and the breast sandwich...
"... Nuhahhoh."
... I got the sensation that my soul was escaping from my mouth. Even getting too happy makes my soul fall out...
"Ise-kun!"
"Ise!"
Akeno-san and Buchou were making a panicked commotion. But, I was happy... just happy.
Matsuda, Motohama, there is definitely paradise in hell. Is this what it means for a Buddha to be in hell?
Next time, I'll tell you of the wonderfulness of the breast sandwich...
And so in this way, I lost consciousness.
Part 5
The next day, we all gathered in a corner of the Gremory family's huge garden.
Everyone was dressed in jerseys! Azazel-sensei was also wearing one. After, everyone had sat down at the table and in the seats that had been placed in the garden, the meeting before the start of our training began right away.
Last night's hot spring bath was the best! I'll never forget it! The rush of blood to my head had been serious, but I couldn't stop grinning since morning! Coming to the Underworld really was a good idea! I truly thought so!
—That feeling wouldn't change or go away.
Sensei had what seemed to be documents and data.
"Let me say this first. What I'm going to tell you now is a training menu that focuses on things in the immediate future. There are people who produce good results immediately, but there are also those who have no choice but to look at things in the long run. However, you are all growing young people. Even if you mistake your direction, you will grow well. Now then, first is Rias, you."
Buchou was the first one that Sensei called out to.
"From the beginning, you have been a high-spec devil with everything, including talent, physical ability and magic power. Even if you live normally as you currently are, those traits will rise and you'll become a candidate for being a highest-grade devil when you become an adult. However, your wish is to become stronger than you would in that future, right?"
Buchou nodded strongly at Sensei's question.
"Yes. I don't want to lose ever again."
It was just as Buchou said! We didn't want to lose in the games again! Especially in a match that isn't formal!
"Then, follow the training recorded on this sheet exactly, even all the way up to the battle day."
After looking at the piece of paper that sensei handed to her, Buchou tilted her head in puzzlement.
"... But, this training doesn't seem all that special, though?"
"That's right. It's a basic training method. That's just fine for you. You've already collected everything. That's why your power can only be raised by basic practice. The problem is the quality of the [King]. Over time, the [King] seeks brains more than strength. You know that even if they're not good at magic, devils can climb to the top with a good head and cleverness, right? Learn all you can about the Rating Games until the deadline. Drive everything, from game documented images to documented data, into your head. What a [King] needs are the thought, quick-wittiness and judgment to defeat any kind of situation. It's your job to make sure that your group's servant devils can display their power to the fullest. However, also remember that, until the actual game, you won't be able to know what will happen. It's the same as a battlefield."
... Ooh, we made fun of the basics but, Sensei actually put a lot of thought into it.
As I thought, because of his persuasiveness, I feel that Buchou and the rest of us have no choice but to practice first.
"Next, Akeno."
"... Yes."
Although she was addressed by Sensei, Akeno-san was sullen. Akeno-san doesn't seem to like Azazel-sensei at all. She had also said that she hated him a little. As I thought, was it related to her father?
As I thought that, Sensei spoke of that topic right from the front.
"You must accept the blood that flows within you."
"—!"
Perhaps because of being told that so bluntly, Akeno-san also frowned. But Sensei continued without paying it any attention.
"I've seen the recorded images of the battle with the Phoenix family. What was that? With your original specs, you should have been able to easily defeat the enemy [Queen]. Why didn't you use your Fallen Angel powers? You limited yourself to only thunder. If you don't add light onto thunder and make [lightning], you can't display your true power."
I see. Akeno-san has the blood of a Fallen Angel too. Therefore, she can also use the power of light. That is quite effective against devil opponents. Moreover, if she adds that onto her specialty of thunder, her power would become incomparable!
"... I can do just fine even if I don't depend on that kind of power."
However, Akeno-san's situation was extremely complex.
"Don't deny yourself. What will you do if you can't accept yourself? In the end, the only thing you can rely on is your own body, right? Denying yourself makes you weak. Accept everything about yourself, even the tough and painful things. Your weakness is your current self. Overcome it by the day of the battle. If not, you will become a mere obstruction in future battles. The [Priestess of Thunder] must become the [Priestess of Lightning]."
"......"
Akeno-san didn't respond to Sensei's words. However, Akeno-san also understood that she had no choice but to do it.
I believe. I believe that Akeno-san shall break through this wall!
"Next is Kiba."
"Yes."
"First, you must maintain Balance Breaker for a full day. If you get used to it, you'll be able to maintain it for a full day in your actual battle form. Your objective is to continue that and to become able to maintain that state for the length of a day. After that, you'll be able to become sufficiently strong by doing basic training like Rias. I'll teach you man-to-man how to handle sword-type Sacred Gears later."
So you ask a Sacred Gear expert about Sacred Gears. Sensei was talking about himself as an enthusiast. But what was so interesting about Sacred Gears?
"For sword training... will you train under your teacher again?"
"Yes, I plan to be taught from scratch again."
Heh, so this guy had a sword teacher. As I thought, is he strong?
Because he's so diligent, Kiba will really let himself be taught from scratch. So is this guy going to become stronger again?
"Next, Xenovia. To be able to use Durandal better than you do now... you need to be able to use another holy sword."
"Another holy sword?"
Xenovia looked doubtful towards Sensei's words.
"Yeah, a slightly special sword."
Sensei grinned, but he soon stopped smiling and turned to look at Gasper.
"Next is Gasper."
"Y-Yeeeeeeees!"
This hikikomori-kun was a bit nervous... He came to this place after a long time of social withdrawal, after all. There were a lot of people coming and going.
"Don't be so frightened. Your biggest obstacle is that fear. You need to train your mind and body that fears everything from scratch. From the start, the specs with your bloodline and your Sacred Gear are substantial. Skill improvement of your bishop special characteristics and your magic will also support you greatly. Since I've constructed an exclusive [hikikomori escape plan] program, you must first put on a proper attitude as much as possible. Even if going out in public entirely is impossible for you, make sure that your movements aren't dull."
So said Sensei. Exactly, this guy can't do anything if he doesn't become strong in mind and body first. The ring that stabilises Sacred Gears doesn't seem to be good for the body if used too often, so it's been removed except for special times. For the time being, he also didn't seem to be running out of control. I was still worried, though.
"Yeeeeeeeeeeeees! I'll try to obtain a spirit that goes for broke!"
... Please don't say something that makes me feel uneasy like that, Gasper. When you say that, it seems like you'll really go for broke. Ah, look, you're immediately trying to go back into your cardboard box...
"The same [Bishop]-class, Asia."
"Y-Yes!"
Asia was also showing fighting spirit as well. She had confessed before that she felt that she was usually not very useful to everyone.
That wasn't true. Asia's recovery ability was outstanding. If Asia wasn't here, there would have been a lot of dangerous situations. I think that she should have confidence in herself.
"You will also improve your body and magic with basic training. Also, your main task will be to strengthen your Sacred Gear."
"Isn't Asia's recovery Sacred Gear already the best? She can heal everything besides sickness and stamina just by touching."
That was my opinion. Could her recovery ability be improved any further? Her recovery speed was already considerable. She could heal even a fatal injury.
"I understand that. The speed of her recovery ability is great. However, the problem is the "touching" part. She can't heal if she doesn't expressly go into close range if an ally is injured."
Ah, somehow, I might have understood what Azazel-sensei said.
"Could Asia's Sacred Gear expand its range?"
Buchou's words were exactly what I wanted to ask. Sensei affirmed it.
"That's correct, Rias. This is like an underhanded trick, but to show the true worth of [Twilight Healing], its effective range must be expanded."
"So it's also possible for Asia's Sacred Gear to be used in long-range as well!?"
Sensei nodded at my question. Isn't that an incredible thing?
"According to the theory based on the data gathered by our organisation. It should also be possible for the Sacred Gear aura to be issued from the whole body and to use the recovery on all allies within one's surroundings."
Seriously!? If that's really true, Asia's role on the battlefield will become something unthinkable! The labor of healing people one by one can be eliminated and the time reduced as well! Many chances for a counterattack would be born!
However, just how big is the database of the Fallen Angels? Does it really have data on all powers concerning Sacred Gears?
"But, the problem is that it would seem to heal both enemies and allies without discernment. It would be fine if it could distinguish between enemies and allies and heal only allies, but... I'm worried about Asia's own nature."
"Asia's... what are you worried about?"
Sensei answered my question with a serious look.
"She's a [kind] person. When seeing an injured enemy on the battlefield, Asia would think in her heart of wanting to heal him too. That would obstruct the Sacred Gear's ability to distinguish between enemies and allies. Most likely, Asia wouldn't be able to obtain this distinguishing power. This enlarged healing range that I spoke of just now can be a double-edged sword for this team. Even so, you should keep the range expansion in mind."
So if used poorly, Asia's range expansion will also heal the damage of the enemy. To think that the cause of that would be Asia's kindness... The Sacred Gear system is too ironic...
"That's why I've found another possibility. —The power to fire the healing aura."
"S-So you mean I would send my healing power to someone that is some distance away from me?"
Asia made the gesture of throwing something. I was healed just by that cute gesture.
"Yes, it seems that you can directly throw it. When Ise is battling 10 meters away and is injured, you would fire your healing power at Ise. If what you have used until now is a standard limited field, the one I'm explaining now is a projectile version. You could heal even if you aren't directly touching."
The healing power as a projectile! Hey, hey, hey, that's unthinkable!
"T-That's amazing! Asia can play a great active role like that!"
I took Asia's hands and held them up spiritedly. Though Asia was surprised at this unexpected information, she was also in a happy state.
"Its power would be a little less than with direct touch, but being able to heal allies from far away is still a strategic characteristic with many uses. With one or two people jumping into the front lines and arranging for the healing Asia and someone to guard her in the back, you'd be able to make the ideal formation."
So, Sensei even went as far as to imagine the formation. He really does like thinking to such a large degree, huh?
Buchou agreed with Sensei's opinion.
"It's an easy method, but that's why strong tactical formations are simple. Usually, the method used to heal allies is Phoenix tears or some mixed healing medicine. Asia's Sacred Gear could easily top those with its all-purpose characteristic and reliability."
"That's right. The power of Asia's Sacred Gear, which can also heal devils, could be called this team's distinctive characteristic and weapon. After that is merely a test of Asia's strength. Please finish the basic training properly, okay?"
"Y-Yes! I'll do my best!'
Do your best, Asia! If it comes to it, I'll act as Asia's shield, after all. I'll absolutely protect her! I can't let Asia, who is like a cute younger-sister to me, have her beautiful-looking skin damaged!
"Next is Koneko."
"... Yes."
Koneko-chan was—in considerable fighting spirit. I wonder what that was about. Even though she had seemed unwell here until recently, she was strangely excited today. What was Koneko-chan thinking about?
"You have nothing to be criticised about, as you possess the elementary traits of offence and defence as a [Rook]. Your physical ability is also not a problem. However, there are those better at offence in Rias' group than a [Rook] like you."
"... I know that."
Koneko-chan wore a frustrated-looking face in response to Sensei's clearly spoken words.
... Could it be, Koneko-chan? Was that what you were worrying about? No, but, isn't Koneko-chan already stronger than the plain me and better than Kiba or Akeno-san in terms of pure strength?
"The ones at the top of offence in Rias' group are currently Kiba and Xenovia. It's because they possess brutal weapons with his Balance Breaker holy demonic swords and her holy sword Durandal. And with Ise who plans to enter Balance Breaker here—"
Offence—. Certainly, Kiba and Xenovia's power in this were excellent.
Though, I don't know whether I'll be able to succeed in attaining Balance Breaker.
"Koneko, you will also improve your basics like the others. In addition, release the thing that you have personally sealed. It's the same as with Akeno. If you don't accept yourself, big growth won't be possible for you."
"......"
Koneko-chan said nothing in response to Sensei's words. Her fighting spirit from before had suddenly disappeared at the mention of "releasing".
... What was Koneko-chan's power? What problem did she have?
"Don't worry, if it's Koneko-chan, you can become strong in a flash."
I spoke casually and tried to pat Koneko-chan's head, but my hand was brushed away.
"... Please don't say that so lightly..."
—A stern expression. This was my first time seeing such a stern-feeling from Koneko-chan.
Did I step on a land mine? What should I do, the encouragement I tried to give had the opposite effect...
While the atmosphere became somewhat gloomy, Sensei worriedly looked at his watch.
"Now then, the last is Ise. For you... Please wait a moment. Should be here soon..."
Sensei looked up at the sky. Huh? What was I supposed to be waiting for? Rather, what was coming?
I and the others also looked up at the sky. What was it? There was nothing there—.
As I was feeling doubtful, a huge shadow appeared in the sky within my vision! It was heading towards us at extreme speed! Uwah! Huge! A monster!? Demon!? Ghost!? It couldn't be an enemy attack, could it!?
Doooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooon!
The earth shook as it landed right in front of us! Even sitting down in a chair the ground shook greatly, and I fell to the ground!
A cloud of dust danced in the air, and after it settled, a huge monster appeared before us!
It was fifteen meters tall! A monster! It's a monster! A mouth that split hugely! Brutal-looking fangs that had all grown out from its mouth! Thick arms and thick legs! Two wings spread out on its sides!
... I knew what this was. I had seen it several times and there was also one lodged inside me.
"—A dragon!"
"That's right, Ise. This is a dragon."
Sensei nodded. So it really is a dragon! It's huuuuuuuuuge! A monster! When it blew out, it would let out fire! It's definite that all the surrounding vicinity would be burned!
"Azazel, you have some nerve openly entering devil territory."
The enormous dragon raised the edge of its mouth and spoke. Ooh, it talks!
"Hah, I've properly gotten the personal permission of the Maou-sama and have entered this territory fairly, you know? Do you have a complaint, Tannin?"
Sensei seemed to know this dragon.
"Hmph. Well, it's fine. I specially came here because of Sirzechs' request. Don't forget your surroundings, Fallen Angel Governor."
"Heheh. —Anyway, Ise. This guy is your teacher."
...... Sensei said that to me as he pointed his finger at the enormous dragon.
By no means. My teacher?...... Eh? Eeeh!?
"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh! This huge dragon is!?"
I was so shocked that my eyes popped out! Naturally, they did! Seriously!? This monster is my teacher!? Shouldn't my teacher be you, Azazel-sensei!? What do you mean!?
"It's been a while, Ddraig. Can you hear me?"
The monster dragon spoke to me—or rather, he was addressing the one inside me.
Then, my left arm shone red on its own, and my Boosted Gear appeared.
[Ah. how nostalgic, Tannin. ]
Reacting to the jewel, Ddraig spoke out so that people nearby besides me could hear him.
"Is he an acquaintance of yours?"
When I asked, I got a "Yes" in response.
[This guy is a former Dragon King. I told you about the "Five Great Dragon Kings" before, right? Tannin here was a Dragon King back when they were the "Six Great Dragon Kings". The dragon called Tannin recorded in the Bible is him. ]
Hah, a Dragon King. Certainly, there are also Dragon Kings aiming at me. Scary, scary. A huge dragon like this is aiming at me? No, no. I absolutely do not want to meet them! Just Vali is enough for me as a dragon opponent! Won't I die before I become a harem king!?
"Tannin became a devil, so the [Six Great Dragon Kings] became the [Five Great Dragon Kings]. Even among the current reincarnated devils, he is ultimate-class. A highest grade devil."
So, said Azazel-sensei. Then, this dragon is a devil! Reincarnated from a dragon! Heh, so a devil reincarnated from a dragon, and what's more a Dragon King, also entered the industry. To be called a highest-grade devil, he must be even greater than Buchou.
Seeing him before me, I actually felt it. Even a reincarnated devil can aim for the top!
"[Blaze Meteor Dragon] Tannin. It's even said that his breath of fire is equal to the impact of a meteorite. He's one of the few legendary dragons that are still active right now. Sorry, Tannin, but please help with the training of this kid who carries the Red Dragon Emperor. I want you to teach him how to use a dragon's power from scratch."
Azazel earnestly asked Tannin this. Wait, so I'm going to learn how to use my power from this dragon that possesses meteor-level power!? Is that okay? Won't I die?
"Even if I don't do it, it should be fine if Ddraig teaches him directly, right?"
"Even so, there is a limit to it. He really needs true dragon training."
"The original actual combat form. I see, so you're saying that you want me to torment this boy."
Tannin continued after Sensei's words like that! Hey, hey! I'm going to be tormented!? If I'm tormented by such a monster, I'll immediately die!
"This is my first time training someone who harbours Ddraig."
The dragon said that happily while narrowing his eyes with a smile!... I-I'm going to be killed! If I'm trained by such a monster, there's no way I'll be able to endure it! Fundamentally, I'm a human at my base! It's impossible, impossible!
[Please control yourself, Tannin. My host is weaker than you imagine. ]
Ooh, Ddraig! As expected of my partner!
"It's fine as long as he doesn't die, right? Leave it to me."
I'm going to die! I'm going to be killed! He doesn't seem to understand, this dragon Ossan[2]!
Beside me, Sensei was nodding in agreement for some reason! Please don't agree! It's impossible!
"The period is about 20 days in human world time. I'd like for him to reach Balance Breaker by then. Ise, work as hard as you can without dying."
After leaving me those words, Sensei waved his hand and started to leave! Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeh!? You're finished with just that!?
"Now then, each of us will now do our respective training menus. I hope you all do well."
Buchou left me behind and continued the conversation!
[Yes. ]
Everyone also responded and started to disperse from this place! Huh!? Huh!? I'm training with this dragon just like that!? No one else thinks that there's a problem here!? No matter how you look at it, I'm going to be attacked by this dragon, you know!? I'll die, you know!?
"Ise, do your best!"
Buchou gave me a thumbs-up and sent me a cheer! That's right. Buchou is the kind of person who doesn't allow compromise when it comes to training. Usually, she's lenient and kind to me, but whenever this sort of training starts, she gives me demonic and gruelling training!
"Miss Rias. Can you lend me the mountain there? I'll be bringing him over there."
The dragon Ossan pointed to the far-off mountain from before.
"Sure. Please teach him well."
"Leave it to me. I'll train him right to the edge of death."
Huh!? This was the conclusion of negotiations!? Seriously!? So that far-off mountain will be my grave!?
The dragon grabbed me with his hand and started to fly! Uwaaaaah! He's flying! I've been captured by a dragon! I'll be eaten!
"Buchoooooooooooooooooooooou!"
Even as I cried and begged for help, Buchou just waved her hand with a smiling face from below me!
Dear grandfather in heaven.
For some reason, I have been captured by a dragon and am flying in the sky.
The summer of my second-year—.
The page of my important springtime of youth—.
I was enjoying it on a mountain with a dragon.
This place really is hell. The heaven where my grandfather is feels quite far away.
Part 6
The summer vacation that I longed for.
Me, Matsuda and Motohama had promised at the beginning of the year that we would find girls and have an ero-ero summer vacation this year, but... For some reason, I was instead being shot at by a monster on a mountain in hell.
Dogooooooooooooon!
Nearby, trees went flying, rocks crumbled and a crater was created in the ground!
"Uwaaaaaaaaaah!
I desperately avoided the breath of fire from the monster—the dragon Ossan!
Tears still came out of my eyes even though I thought that they had dried out, you know? Because I was facing such a scary feeling every single day, my tears couldn't dry out! No, enough already! This kind of life! Where is there a high school student that gets shot at by a dragon every day!?
"Come on, Sekiryuutei kid. If you don't dodge quicker, you'll become charcoal."
No! I don't want to become charcoal before I have sex with Buchou! I have to do it with the virgin Buchou! My plan was to throw away my virginity by having sex with Buchou!
I also wanted to have sex with Akeno-san! I wanted the virgin Akeno-san too! I also wanted to make children with Xenovia! And I also wanted to get along with Asia more!
—Why am I on this mountain while on the verge of death!?
Several days had passed since I came to this mountain and I was completely worn out.
My fatigue was at its peak in both mind and body. Because I was being chased around every day and night by a monster, you know? Even every once in a while, when I launched a counterattack, I could never turn the tables. Even if I punched the scales of such a tough dragon, not only did it do no damage, it conversely hurt my fist instead.
Even using my transfer power was insignificant, so I could only spent my time running away and hiding every single day. That guy was mercilessly trying to kill me!
Moreover, that fire breath attack... It had blown off a section of the mountain with a single breath. If I get hit directly by that kind of attack, I'll die from a single hit!
Since my power has risen, my left arm has essentially become a dragon arm, since I gave it as payment to the Sacred Gear in the battle with Raiser, but thanks to putting a ring I got from Sensei on my wrist, my arm wouldn't transform. Sensei really makes lots of things.
But the time we are in hell is limited. When we return to the human world, my finger will be sucked by Buchou and Akeno-san again!
However, even just running has given me considerable training. At present, I hadn't even received a single hit from that breath... but my jersey was in tatters. It was full of holes.
Once the gruelling training during the first part of everyday ended, basic training began. It was mainly muscle training. When that was done, I was always in immense pain as my entire body screamed, but it felt better than being chased around by the dragon Ossan, and I could surprisingly perform it normally.
I had no choice but to secure my own meals. Rather, as I was ignorant of the animals and plants of the Underworld, I caught fish in the river only after confirming whether it was edible or not from the dragon Ossan, and I gathered nuts from trees that grew on the mountain.
I got fire by creating it somehow with my unskillful magic. Fufufu, I've only improved my fire-making magic, you know?
... Huh? Why was I a living such a life? When I caught a fish, I unconsciously said "Tottado!"[3]. This is bad. Aren't I steadily becoming a wild child?
I've been spending everyday here doing this and that. I wanted to meet with Buchou! I wanted to talk to Asia! I wanted to have tea from Akeno-san!
Uu, there weren't any girls here! It's a true hell for me! I longed for Buchou's lap pillow! I wanted to savour the feeling of Buchou's thighs again!
Delusions were the only pleasures that came to me here.
When Ossan's harsh training ended, I went to the world of delusions. Buchou and Asia were there, and they welcomed me warmly...
Recently, I even became able to enter delusions while being chased around by the dragon Ossan. Even I thought that I was ill.
Doooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooh!
Another fire ball was shot! Uwaaaaaaaah! The rock I was hiding behind was destroyed, and I was found by Ossan.
"Here you are, here you are. It's no use even if you become good at just running away. Come on, fight back."
"It's impossible! You're too strong! Could you, be even stronger than Vali!?"
"Well, I have often been said to be Maou-class in terms of pure power."
See! You're a monster! What's with the Maou-class talk!? Why am I trying to survive on a mountain with a Maou-class dragon!?
Damn it! If it's like this, I should have gone to the sea with Matsuda and Motohama!
I want women! Even though I had only beautiful girls and beautiful women around me, there wasn't a single flag being raised![4]
Aah, it was the best when Buchou and Akeno-san became those girls. I had confessed once with the resolution of a dying man. But they seemed to say "sorry" at that instant...
Even I was surprised at myself that my horny nature wouldn't stop having delusions while I was being chased by Ossan. But I wouldn't be able to survive in these conditions if I didn't have delusions!
"Oh, you're doing it. How is it going?"
I heard a voice that was familiar. Looking behind me, the Fallen Angel Governor was there.
"So good! So goooooooooood!"
While crying, I was eating rice balls made by Buchou that Azazel-sensei had brought.
So good! It was Buchou's flavour! It had Buchou's love in it! Since I also had a boxed lunch made by Asia, it was the best!
"There's also a boxed lunch made by Akeno. Eat that too. Since she made it while causing a show of sparks with Rias. But, hahahaha, you've gotten a bit of a good face in the several days that I haven't seen you."
Sensei said that while patting my shoulder.
"Don't joke around! I almost died! I really almost died! This dragon Ossan is insanely strong! Even if you told him to teach me the battle of a dragon, when he uses too much of his real power, it's just absuuuuuuuuuurd!"
I cried out while rice flew from my mouth! Because it's harsh! A modern-day kid like me can't endure it, coming to an empty mountain for several days with a Maou-class dragon! Worst of all, Buchou's breasts weren't here!
"Tannin-ossan doesn't know how to hold back! I'm going to be killed! I don't want to die while still a virgin!"
"You idiot. You've decided not to die, right? If I was so inclined, you would become charcoal by my breath of fire. If you don't want to have these painful feelings, then reach Balance Breaker quickly."
Ossan said that to me with half-opened eyes while resting on a rock face.
"Even if you say that! If someone with a human base like me takes a punch from someone monster-sized like you, I'll be turned into itty-bitty pieces with one blow!"
"Hmph. How foolish, when you call yourself Miss Rias' strongest [Pawn] in that kind of condition. Do you know how many devils would want to be Miss Rias' servant?"
... Now that you mention it, Buchou is a celebrity in the underworld. Even when she just briefly appeared in that city station before, high-pitched cheers had risen out for her.
Now that I thought about it, there were many devils who wished to become Buchou's servants. Does that make me lucky?
Yeah, I really am the luckiest, because I can live with such a beautiful and kind Onee-sama with big breasts.
Ah, Buchou. The person I yearned for. I'd like to marry her one day... Well, it's a distant and empty dream.
I sighed. Azazel-sensei spoke while looking at the training diary that I kept.
"Even so, you've also been including basic training, right? Then, it's fine. If you don't do this much, your body won't be able to keep up when you attain Balance Breaker. There is too much that you are lacking in. You wouldn't be able to win against Vali with magic even if he was doing a headstand. Therefore, you have no choice but to raise yourself up through physical strength."
I understood that, it was exactly as Sensei said. Vali is a descendant of the Old Maou. In terms of magic, I absolutely cannot win. But even so, how could I win with physical strength... ? There was a big of gap between me and Vali in terms of basic specs.
"Umm, back then, Vali was trying to do something, but what was it?"
I asked Azazel-sensei this. Before Vali left, he tried to do something. Though Albion also tried to restrain him from doing it...
"Ah, that was the [Juggernaut Drive]."
"Is it something above even the Balance Breaker?"
"No, there exists nothing above Balance Breaker. The ultimate and final form of Sacred Gears is the Balance Breaker. However, there are several things inside Sacred Gear that have a magical being sealed in them. A peculiar restraint is applied on those ones. Your Boosted Gear and Vali's Divine Dividing are examples of that."
I see. Mine and his Sacred Gear are the type whose power comes from having a magical being—in other words, a dragon sealed inside it.
"Those ones are strongly restrained, taking out power while in that state and making sure that the host can use it. In the case of the Sacred Gears of the Sekiryuutei and the Hakuryuukou, forcing that restraint to temporarily release and unleashing the sealed power is the [Juggernaut Drive]. It temporarily gives one power rivalling that of God, but the risk is also huge. It greatly shaves off one's lifespan. And it also makes one lose their sense of reason."
"You mean you run out of control?"
"Yeah, to a violent degree. One would destroy all of their surroundings, and even start to destroy oneself before finally stopping. It's impossible to master that power in actual combat, but... Vali can handle it for several minutes by consuming an enormous amount of magic power—he should be able to do so, anyway. Since Albion was impatient back then, I guess that it still has its dangers. Naturally, it's not my place to say this as one who uses an artificial Sacred Gear in a Burst state, but the way to use a power that throws away one's future like that is essentially different from the way to use the Sacred Gear's power. —It's an accursed method of fighting that just uses the power of people that are transformed into the dead. You should absolutely never copy it."
There was sorrow in sensei's eyes. Was he worried about Vali? He had talked about teaching him how to use his power when he was still his subordinate.
"So the current Hakuryuukou can handle the [Juggernaut Drive]? That's a problem. The Sekiryuutei kid would be killed if he didn't become desperate. The way either the white or red awakened that power before certainly let them surpass the other. In some sense, it's first come, first served."
Tannin-ossan said such a shocking thing! Seriously!?
Then, it's my turn to die!?... No, I can't die yet. I still have a dream to fulfil! My harem! My high-class devil promotion! If it's like this, I'll even aim at being an ultimate-class devil like Ossan! It's huge that I've found out that it's possible even for a reincarnated devil!
... But, can I endure Ossan's harsh training?
Ossan is too strong. I can't win. He's a monster. That breath of fire is foul play. Since I'm not some huge and special hero who can shoot beams from my hands, such an opponent is impossible for me.
"Ise, let's change the topic."
Sensei called out to me, who hadn't looked at him since before, with a suddenly formal tone.
"Yes?"
"How do you think of Akeno?"
That's sudden. What was this about?
"I think that she's a good Senpai."
I immediately spoke my honest feelings. Her S-mode is a bit scary, but she's usually very gentle and the girlish part of her that she sometimes shows is really cute.
"That's not what I meant. I mean as a woman."
"She's attractive! She's one of the people that I want to be with!"
Sensei nodded at my question with a "Uh-huh" while seeming somehow relieved.
"I see. You see, I also have to watch over her in the place of a friend of mine."
"You mean Akeno-san's father, who's one of your subordinates, right?"
"Rather than a subordinate, Barakiel is a comrade from ancient times like Shemhaza. A friend, a friend. We did a lot of stupid things together. So, before I realised it, everyone around me besides myself had gotten wives and kids."
Sensei sighed deeply. Ah, this person, is he the type to worry about being single?
"You were beaten to the punch, huh?"
"... It's fine, since I have so many women for me."
Ah, he got a faraway look in his eyes for an instant there. Is the subject of marriage taboo for him as I thought?
"Well, leaving that aside, I'm very concerned about Akeno. Though, to Barakiel and Akeno, it may be none of my business."
"Sensei, you're unexpectedly a heated, or perhaps I should say meddlesome person. You also involved yourself in our training."
"I'm just an ordinary Fallen Angel with free time. —Though, it was because of that that I also raised the Hakuryuukou."
That's not true. I think that he's just a nosy person. With me, with Akeno, and with Vali. He has poked his nose into each of our business. What a strange Fallen Angel. With him as the Governor, I can't understand the whole aspects of his organisation.
"In any case, I'm thinking of perhaps entrusting Akeno to you."
"Entrusting her... to me?"
What do you mean, entrusting? Do you mean protecting her with my body during games and battles? In that case, protecting her is no problem for me. I think it's also the role of the [Pawn] to protect the [Queen] Akeno-san with one's body.
"You're an idiot, but you're not a bad guy. Rather, it would be better to call you a loveable idiot. Above all, you don't seem to have discrimination towards her."
"? I don't seem to get what you're talking about..."
"Hahahaha, that's why I'm relieved. If you were really deceiving her, things would have already descended into carnage. If you do it poorly, it will have an effect on things from now on and you'll also see blood. The type like you that takes form from winning the trust of those around you can feel at ease without resenting anyone. In some sense that's a privilege, or rather a talent." (!)
"??????"
My brain was full of question marks. I didn't understand it very well, but—.
"I understand. I'll protect Akeno-san! Of course, I'll also help my master, Buchou, and protect Asia too!"
"Alright. Well, I'll entrust the matter of Akeno to you. More importantly—the problem is Koneko."
"? What's wrong with Koneko-chan?"
Sensei let out a breath at my question.
"There's nothing that can be done about it. She's impatient—or rather, she feels doubt in her power."
I suddenly remembered how Koneko-chan didn't seem to be feeling well recently. Was something the matter with her?
"She overdid the training that I gave her. This morning, she collapsed."
"C-Collapseeeeeeeeed!?"
I was shocked at this bad news about my Kouhai. Seriously!? Was Koneko-chan all right?
"Asia can treat injuries, but she can't do anything about physical strength. Overworking in particular certainly hurts one's physical strength and has adverse effects. Because the time left until the game is limited, that's dangerous."
"U-Umm, if overworking is no good, what about me... ? Aren't I close to death by being chased around by a dragon monster every day... ?"
I asked this while pointing at myself. No matter how you think about it, it's inhumane!
"Ah, it's fine for you. Something of this extent isn't enough for that."
You said so readily! Is that so!? How is it fine for me!? It was just too much to handle, and my tears wouldn't stop!
"Now then, we should go. Ise, I was told to take you back just this once. You'll return to the Gremory annex only once. Tannin, he'll be going back for a little while. I'll return him tomorrow morning."
"Yeah, then I'll return to my territory for now."
So said sensei and Tannin-ossan.
Eh? I can temporarily come down from the mountain?
"Heh? Sensei, from whom did the order for me to return come from? Buchou?"
"—from her mother."
Buchou's mother... What business does she have with me?
Part 7
"Yes, turn there. That's no good. The sharpness isn't good. Come on, Issei-san, do it from the beginning without acting stupefied."
I was in the annex that was detached from the Gremory main residence. I was making an effort in dancing practice with Buchou's mother in a room there.
... Why was I doing this kind of thing?
As soon as I returned to the annex, I was led here by Buchou's mother. Then, we started dancing practice just like that. Because I had never done something like this before, I was completely no good at it.
Buchou's mother was wearing a dress as usual. I was having a dance lesson while being glued to Buchou's mother! I sometimes came into contact with her breasts. They were wonderfully soft! How to say it, it had a matured feeling in elasticity and texture! I don't understand it that well, but that's how it felt! And her appearance was the same as Buchou's! Was this the charm of a married woman?
However, this mother. she's seriously pretty. Because she looked about the same age as me, I was conscious of her! Moreover, she had the same face as Buchou who I yearned for, you know? She was a flaxen-haired version of Buchou! F-Furthermore, her style was also exceptional just like Buchou! Her breasts were big! Buchou's breasts were hereditary. Thank you very much, mother! Your breasts' genes were safely handed down to Buchou!
"Shall we take a short break?"
And so having been given permission, I sat down right where I was with long, drawn out breaths.
Ah, I had been chased around by a dragon since this morning. My stamina was... well, this is still far better than having fire shot at me by that monster Ossan.
... But still. I asked a question to Buchou's mother.
"U-Umm."
"What is it?"
"Why am I the only one doing this? And not Kiba or Gasper?"
Yes, why only me? Including the customary Gremory education as well, if it was to train me as a gentleman, even Kiba and Gasper should be... Though, I understood that I was the least like a gentleman.
Buchou's mother answered me.
"Kiba Yuuto-san has already mastered these sorts of techniques. As expected of a [Knight]. Gasper-san is a member of a distinguished vampire family. He may behave unreliably, but he at least knows etiquette. The problem is Issei-san. It can't be helped that you're a commoner from the human world, but even so it's troubling if you don't acquire etiquette beyond a certain level. Because you'll also have to make an appearance with Rias in high society eventually. You have to remember customary practices even a little during your stay in the Underworld."
I was dumbfounded by the words of Buchou's mother! Me in high society!? But didn't I hear that servants couldn't show their faces to such an extent?
"B-Buchou... Rias-sama and me will be in high society together!?"
As I was surprised, Buchou's mother shifted her gaze to the side and covered her mouth with her hand.
"... Oops, I carelessly let something slip out. That kind of thing is still talk of what may happen. Leaving that aside, calling her [Buchou] like that will not do. This isn't school, so you have to properly call your master by her name. Not to mention, Rias is... Oops, I nearly let something slip again."
Eh? Calling her Buchou is no good?
"Even if you suddenly say such a thing, since I've always kept calling her Buchou... Hmm, how about Rias-sama then?"
"Yes, like that. Or you can call her [master]. —Though, you have to call her differently in private as well."
"So [Buchou] is no good?"
"Think. If you had to give an answer on that within yourself, do you hate that girl?"
Buchou's mother said that while giving a wry smile.
No, no! There's no way I could hate Buchou!
"Well, it would be difficult for you to call her that all of a sudden, and Rias would also be bewildered if you did that suddenly. For this home visit only, you may call her [Buchou]. However, you have to be certain of what to call her eventually."
Now that she brings it up, what was the person in question, Buchou, doing right now?
She might be in dire distress with poor physical health like Koneko-chan. Hmm, I'm also a bit worried. I'd like to go see how she is at least once as her important Kouhai, but... If I go, that may seem like an overuse of my feelings with that...
"U-Umm, can I ask you one question?"
"What is it?"
"What about Koneko-chan... ? Is Koneko-chan okay?"
"Yes. It was just ordinary overworking, so she should recover slowly if she rests her body for one or two days."
"... I'm very worried about Koneko-chan, since she's been acting strangely since before we came here."
"That girl is doing her best to face her own existence and power right now. It's a difficult problem. However, she won't be able to advance forward if she doesn't find the answer herself."
"... Her existence and power?"
I was full of questions. What was in Koneko-chan?
"... Now that I think of it, you haven't been part of Rias' group for long. Yes, it's natural that you don't know. I'll tell you a little."
Buchou's mother sat down while facing me, and began to tell a certain story.
It was a story of two cat sisters.
The cat sisters were always together, when they played, when they ate, when they slept. With their parents dead, they had no home to return to and no one to rely on. The two cats struggled to live day to day while depending on each other.
"One day, the two of them were picked up by a certain devil. The older sister became a part of his group, and so the younger sister was also able to live with them. Having finally obtained a decent life, the two of them believed that they could pass time very happily."
However, something unusual happened. It appeared that the elder cat sister achieved rapid growth after gaining power. Buchou's mother said that her hidden talent suddenly began to overflow by becoming a reincarnated devil.
"That cat was of a species that naturally excels in youjutsu[5]. Furthermore, she bloomed in magic talent as well, and even invoked senjutsu that was said only the last of the sennin[6] could use."
It seemed that the elder cat sister, having surpassed her master in a short time, was swallowed by power and was transformed into a wicked existence that only sought blood and battle.
"With her increase in power not stopping, the elder cat sister killed the devil that was her master in the end, and degenerated into an "exiled devil". Moreover, she changed into one of the most dangerous among the "exiled devils". One that completely annihilated all the pursuit squads..."
It was said that the devils temporarily canceled all pursuit of the elder cat sister.
"The younger cat sister remained behind. The devils questioned her as a liability there."
[This cat may also eventually run out of control. It's better to deal with her now. ] —So they said.
"It was Sirzechs who saved that cat that was planned to be disposed of. Sirzechs persuaded the high-class devils that the younger cat sister was innocent. As a result, the situation was settled by having Sirzechs watch over her."
However, having been betrayed by her elder sister, that she believed in and tortured by the other devils, the little cat sister's spirit appeared to be on the brink of collapse... What a sad story...
"Sirzechs left the younger cat sister that had lost her smile and the will to live in the care of Rias. After the younger cat sister met Rias, she recovered her emotions little by little. And then, Rias gave that cat a name. —Koneko."
—.
I was at a loss for words after hearing this much. So, the story just now was Koneko-chan's... ?
Wait, then, Koneko-chan's true form is—.
"She was originally a Youkai[7]. You know of the Nekomata[8], right? Cat Youkai. She is a survivor of the strongest species among the cat Youkai, a Nekoshou[9]. They are a high-level youkai species who can not only master youjutsu, but senjutsu as well."
Part 8
"Ah, Buchou."
"Ise!"
Having moved to the main residence after the completion of my dancing practice, I was welcomed by Buchou—Owaaah! I was hugged all of a sudden! Buchou was tightly hugging me. Ah, it's been a while since I've had this feeling... Though only a few days have passed, I missed Buchou's smell!
"... Ise's smell."
"Ah, umm, I've been sweating a lot..."
"It's fine. Your smell is still the same. —I was lonely, you know?"
When you say that with such moist eyes, my heart can't help but skip a beat!
"I haven't been able to sleep with you since arriving here, and I wasn't able to feel you like this every day either... Since, I can no longer imagine a life without you... What a pitiful master I am."
Aaaaah, Buchou! Has your level of dependence on me risen? I'm more blessed than I deserve as your servant! I also can't imagine a life without Buchou either! That's why the training on that mountain was so, so tough! I tried to say that, but—.
"However, a little endurance is needed. First, we have to both be strong. Ise, do your best in your mountain seclusion with Tannin! Blow away his breath of fire!"
"—! Uuu, y-yeeeeees! I'll do my best not to become cindeeeeers!"
As I thought, Buchou doesn't compromise when it comes to training! I replied with tears in my eyes! I understaaaaaaaaaaaaand! If Buchou says so, I'll do my best with the resolve to diiiiiiiiiiiie!
But, leaving that aside, I shook my head again and asked Buchou a question.
"U-Umm, Buchou. How's Koneko-chan?"
Buchou's face became complicated at that.
"Follow me."
The room that I entered according to Buchou was—Koneko-chan's room.
Buchou had finished talking with her already, and Akeno-san was already inside, so only I was told to enter.
So I went to meet Koneko-chan by myself. Her room was wide. It was a wide room, when I turned my feet towards the bedroom—.
Akeno-san was standing by the bed, and Koneko-chan was lying down on that bed.
—.
I was surprised to see what had sprung up on Koneko-chan's head.
Cat ears! So she really was a cat Youkai known as a Nekomata. But! What to do! A Koneko-chan who has cat ears! So lovely, so incredibly adorable!
Since she usually hides them, did she also lose the strength needed to hide them when she ran out of physical strength?
No, no, it isn't the time for that now. I've come to see Koneko-chan's condition.
"Ise-kun, this is—"
Because of my reaction to Koneko-chan's cat ears, Akeno-san tried to explain the reason.
"No, I've already heard the general story."
I responded with this to Akeno-san. Just like that, I move to the side of the bed and examined Koneko-chan's condition.
I didn't catch sight of any especially bad injuries. Well, if it was just injuries, it would be no problem with Asia here. So she really did come here because she exhausted all her physical strength.
"Hey, is your body okay?"
I asked that with a smile. Then, Koneko-chan muttered with half-opened eyes.
"... What did you come here for?"
A sullen tone of voice, far more than the extent up until now. She was angry that I came, huh?
"... Would it be no good if I said it was because I was worried?"
"......"
Still acting sullen, Koneko-chan didn't respond. I continued.
"Koneko-chan, I heard about it, about all the various things. In any case, overworking yourself is no good. If you don't take care of your body... though, I have no right to talk while I'm receiving hellish training."
"... I want to..."
Koneko-chan muttered something very quietly, and since I failed to hear it clearly, I asked again.
"Eh? What is it?"
Then, Koneko-chan looked straight at me and spoke in a clear tone. While holding tears in her eyes—.
"I want to become strong. Like Yuuto-senpai, Xenovia-senpai, Akeno-san... and also Ise-senpai, I want to make my spirit and body strong. Gya-kun is also becoming strong. I don't have a healing power like Asia-senpai either... At this rate, I'll become useless. Even though I'm a [Rook], I'm the... weakest... I hate being useless..."
"Koneko-chan..."
So you were worrying about that... Certainly, Kiba has also become stronger. Xenovia is strong too. Akeno-san is the strongest piece, [Queen], and Gasper can stop time. Asia may be no good at fighting, but her healing ability was great, and then there was me. Even though I myself was weak, I hold a legendary dragon in my body.
Koneko-chan continued to talk even as she shed large tears.
"... But, I don't want to use the power sleeping inside me... my Nekomata power... If I use it, I... just like my Nee-sama... I don't want that... I absolutely don't want such a thing..."
For the first time—. For the first time, I saw Koneko-chan's crying face like this. Since she was a kid that hadn't directly shown much of her feelings up until now, seeing that was a shock to me.
Koneko-chan's Onee-san had her power run out of control, and killed her devil master. And then she had just left like that. Buchou's mother had said that this girl had seen all of that.
Because she knew that a dangerous power that could just kill her master was sleeping inside her too, she was afraid... But even so, when thinking of the situations in the coming future, she wanted power. This girl had carried these conflicting feelings even when coming to the Underworld...
So she overworked herself because she tried to become stronger without using the power sleeping inside her.
Koneko-chan possessed a warm heart with strong feelings for her friends. So she was vexed that she herself was useless. I think it was hard for her, not being able to repay Buchou who saved her.
I was also mortified at my lack of ability and uselessness to Buchou, and wished for power as well...
Akeno-san shook her head and spoke to me.
"Ise-kun, please leave the rest to us."
"But..."
"You're a kind person. But, it's also important to sometimes keep your distance just a little. Besides, you yourself have to become stronger. And I also... since I'm the same as Koneko-chan, we have to overcome this together. If one can't accept all of oneself and can't understand it, one can't move forward. Koneko-chan and I understand this in our heads. But... our courage is just slightly not enough yet. Please wait just a little longer. Koneko-chan and I will definitely get through this. Definitely—"
Akeno-san also displayed hatred towards the Fallen Angel blood sleeping inside her. But, if she didn't accept that power of light, she may not be able to play an active role in the tough games from beyond this point.
I see, the two of them are similar in that regard. Denying the power that sleeps inside them, because those two have done that...
"Yes. Akeno-san, Koneko-chan, I'll... try to do the things only I can do."
I bowed my head to the two of them, and then went out of the room just like that.
... We each have our respective battles. We each have our respective trainings. We each have our respective walls that we must surpass.
Alright! I'm fired up! Akeno-san! Koneko-chan! Everyone! And Buchou!
I'll also surpass the training that only I can do!
After I slept soundly that day, I returned to the mountain the following morning.
Translator's notes and references
| ← Ch. 043 | Ch. 045 → |