> Sorceress of the East and a scholarship student from Little Garden. She has also self-proclaimed herself as Hayato’s childhood friend, and Hayato’s younger sister, Kisaragi Karen, who recently began her activity as an Idol, has found her as source of admiration.[Yes, Hayato–kun? Have you arrived to Gudenburg?]
When he pressed the answer b.u.t.ton, he heard a very enthusiastic voice. Of course, it belonged to Kirishima Sakura.
– What are you saying so suddenly? I mean, you’re on a ‘Live Tour’ now, aren"t you? Besides, how do you know that I am in Gudenburg?
[Of course, I asked Karen. And therefore, I thought this was destiny!]
– Mm, destiny?
[This is destiny. DESTINY. You know why?]
– No, I do not know, but…
[All right, I’ll give you a clue, what’s the country I’m in now?]
– I don"t know, even if you say something like that so abruptly….
[Why should not you know? Please stay current with my Tour schedules!]
– Uhm, even if you tell me that…
[Guess what, when we’re done, let’s go on a date]
– What, a date?
The moment he said that, Hayato felt that beside him there was a sense of bloodl.u.s.t.
Turning his eyes, he could see Emilia’s facial expression and the prana surrounding her.
The time elapsed was not more than three seconds, but the time limit had already been fulfilled.
[Hehe, time is up. I am currently in the capital city of Louvre, in the Kingdom of Francois. It is a short distance from Gudenburg using the bullet train. What I want to say is that, the "Live" will be the day after tomorrow. Tomorrow I will be free, so if possible, I would like to see Hayato]
– Give it to me!
It was a strong tone.
– It’s for the best!
Emilia said again, who s.n.a.t.c.hed Hayato’s PDA from his hands, seeing that he was somewhat confused.
– h.e.l.lo?
It was a low tone, in a bad mood.
Even so, Sakura could identify with the voice and immediately recognized that it was Emilia.
[Why did you respond, this thieving cat*!? Please let me speak again with Hayato-kun!]
*TN: Thief cat is a woman who has an affair with a married man.
– No way. Besides, who are you calling a thieving cat!
[It is said that the thief cat begins by being a liar. A man lied and approached Hayato-kun, and even tried to steal Hayato-kun’s heart!]
– As for that, there were a lot of reasons and I have already explained that. So everyone gave me their understanding.
[…everyone? I’m not convinced. Students have a great sense of admiration for Hayato-kun, not like you who was posing as a man, so those students who support you are not convinced, or am I wrong?]
– A…
As you can expect with the truth, Emilia was lost without words. Of course not only with the premises, but in different places, the rumors attack, and sometimes the gazes were falling like rain.
[Returning to the subject, let me speak to Hayato again. I want to finalize tomorrow’s plans]
– Because tomorrow I have an important task to do with him, he will not have free time. So the appointment tomorrow will be impossible. The end!
[What is this task? What time does it start and when does it end? Will you always be together]
– Because it’s confidential, I cannot tell you anything. Anyway, Hayato has no time. Well, see you soon!
– As she terminated the call, Emilia returned the PDA to Hayato.
– Perfect, now it’s in silent mode. At this moment you have a duty to fulfill.
– Hey you…
I’ll apologize to Sakura later.
While he was thinking that, Hayato put his PDA in his pocket. Suddenly, the vehicle stopped completely. Hayato decides to look out the window, making a visual inspection.
But there was nothing in particular that caught his eye.
The driver only showed his face and exchanged a few words with the security guard at his side, and then the vehicle began to move again and went through a giant gate.
– From here on we are on royal grounds.
In less than a minute since Claudia informed him of this, a gigantic structure was in sight.
In a few moments, the vehicle stopped.
– We"ve arrived, let"s descend
The first one in descend is Kilfelthar, who was sitting in the pa.s.senger seat, to open the door to the rear seats where Hayato was sitting.
Then Claudia, Emilia, and Hayato descended in that order.
– Is this the palace where your father lives?
Hayato murmured, staring at the palace in front of him. The mansion of the Governor of the Zwei Islands was quite large, but this surpa.s.sed five times its size. Apparently there were three buildings that were linked, it looked quite luxurious.
– I was living here too, but for a short time.
Immediately after Emilia said that.
– It is been a long time without seeing you, Hime-sama
The person who spoke was a girl dressed in a maid’s outfit.
It could be said that she is the same age as Emilia? Her hair is short, black in color, bobcat style and has fine freckles on her nose. Emilia’s expression when seeing such a young girl suddenly changed to a tone of joy.
– Kate! It"s been a long time. You’ve been good?
– Yes of course. After Hime-sama left, I was quite sad. But I dedicated myself to being the best at managing tasks.
– Ahaha, I’m sorry, I’m sorry … Ups, I did not introduce you to Hayato. She is my exclusive maid at this palace.
– I was not previously, but now I am her exclusive maid.
Saying that as if she barely opened her mouth, Kate lowered her head to Hayato.
– My name is Kate Gramanshe* and I belong to the Royal Family Administration Department, I hope to be able to best serve Hayato-san during his stay. It is a pleasure to meet you.
– The pleasure is mine … but, apparently you already know me?
– I have heard many things from Hime-sama.
– Hey, Kate! Do not say unnecessary things!
Emilia’s face was very red.
I wonder what the h.e.l.l they were talking about.
– Ahahaha, then Princess-sama, we must first change your clothes. If you want to see your majesty, those clothes are not enough.
– …Haa, why? Cannot we stay with our school uniforms?
– Impossible. It has been a long time since father and daughter haven"t seen each other, and it is a good opportunity to show the beautiful appearance of Ojou-sama to Hayato-sama. Does Hayato-sama also want to see the lovely figure of Ojou-sama?
– Well … I would like to see, I mean, I want to see…
I wonder, what kind of clothes is, it is impossible not to pay attention to this.
– You heard, Ojou-sama. Then we are going!
– Uwaa! Save me, Hayato!
The only thing Hayato could do was see how Emilia was dragged by Kate.
– All right, Hayato-sama, we’ll be in the living room, waiting for Emilia-sama to change her clothes.
The waiting room, led by Kilfelthar, had bright red walls and rugs, with chairs around an ancient desk, and had a magnificent view of the palace exterior. On the wall there was also a fairly large painting whose quality was of the highest.
Inside the room, the silence fell until it was like the death itself.
Claudia, Kilfelthar and Hayato were in this place. But none of them were close to Hayato, so he could not find a topic to talk about. Of course, in such a situation, in which he would soon find with the king himself, it was impossible for Hayato to remain calm.
Hayato tests the water the maid brought when he entered the room, which was placed on the desk in front of his eyes.
(I do not get along very well with carbonated water…)
He was hesitant to drink the water that had bubbles, but he really thought it was carbonated water. As he looked around the room again, he heard *TAP* *TAP* and *TOC*.
– Sorry for the wait.
The door opened and Kate, who entered the room, called pointing to the hallway.
– Hime-sama.
– Y-yes…
Emilia, due to Kate’s call, entered the room embarra.s.sed, she was wearing a dress with many ruffle like a princess in a fairy tale.
– How does she look, Hayato-sama? Have you fallen in love again?
– No, I mean, I really thought I was in front of an Ojou-sama.
– Uu…
Emilia hanged her head and her face was bright red.
– I cannot feel comfortable in this. The skirt is too long…
– It’s very bad, princess-sama! It’s a disgrace!
As she twisted her lips and watched Emilia lift her long skirt in both hands, Kate warns without delay.
– I want to change clothes quickly, so let"s go to where Otou-sama* is.
* TN: Emilia says お 父 様 (o-tou-sama), which means father, but including the honorific that is sama, so I left it like that.
– Very good. Apparently you can go visit him. Ready to go? However, Hime-sama, in the presence of the king, I will not be able to follow your orders, I will do it as it is appropriate.
– Uu, I know.
– Well, then, let’s head over there.
Guided by Kate, Hayato and Emilia left the living room. Claudia will accompany them to the bedroom where King Gra.n.a.ld is waiting for them.
– Hayato, let’s do as we have planned to when we meet Otou-sama.
– O, ok…
As they walked down the hall, Emilia whispered in Hayato’s ear, to remind him of the strategy to allow her to break her current engagement.
He is Emilia’s lover, and their current relationship is that they are in the process of getting married. It is a.s.sumed that they will meet with King Granard under these circ.u.mstances.
(Is it really good to do this …?)
Deciding to lie to the king of a country.
If this is discovered to be a lie, this could get pretty ugly.
In spite of this, this operation was also accepted by the president. As a mission carried out by the Slayers, it must be fulfilled as such.
– After your meeting with your majesty, you want to meet with your sisters?
Kate asked Emilia.
– No it"s fine. I do not want to see any of them even less meet them.
– Claudia, come here.
– What-what"s happening, what do you want to do while you bring your face to me?
While Hayato whispered in Claudia’s ear, she took distance from Hayato as she writhed.
It was an att.i.tude that meant ‘you should not approach me’.
– Well, I think the relationship between Emilia and her family is complicated.
– Haaaaaaa…
Listening to that question, Claudia released a rather large sigh.
– Have not you heard anything about Emilia-sama’s family?
– I heard something about her coming from another mother, and that mother comes from Wenz, so her blood is mixed.
– That’s just the way it is. In the royal family of Gudenburg, all their members possess royal blood. Emilia, who has blood from the indigenous people living on the island, known as the kingdom of Wenz, is then a rare person. That’s why there are people who get on badly with Emilia, while others try to marry people from Wenz. To adhere to the rules that remain within the royal family, Emilia decided to leave the palace to maintain a good impression on people, but so there are people who hate that she is a daughter of one of his concubines.
– Being royalty is a pretty hard job…
– Even in Europe, the Kingdom of Gudenburg is a great historical country, as well as being a sovereign state within the Federation of Britannia. That is why Emilia-sama, the third princess, is involved in this political conflict in this way.
When Claudia sighed with a rather serious face, Kate, who led the way stopped. Hayato also stopped. Then Kate hit the big thick door twice in front of her.
– Your Majesty, I have brought with me Emilia Ojou-sama, and Kisaragi Hayato-sama.
– Oh, oh, they’ve finally arrived. Let them get into the room.
A thick voice was heard coming from the other side of the door. I wonder if it belongs to King Gra.n.a.ld.
Hayato’s tension increases.
– I will do as you say.
With that said, Kate opens the door.
What you can see in the giant room is an old man lying on the bed, and a man about sixty years old standing at the side of him.
– Hime-sama, Hayato-sama, please.
At the request of Kate, Emilia proceeded to take a step towards the king’s bedroom.
– Otou-sama, it’s been a long time.
At the same time the door closed, Emilia bowed her head before the king. Then she turned his gaze to the man standing next to him.
– It’s been a long time too, Bratt. Have you become Prime Minister yet?
Emilia’s att.i.tude was formidable. While for Hayato, his body could not stop shaking for a while back. Of course it was a matter of experience since, for Hayato, it was the first time he saw the king of a country in person.
Meanwhile, the king’s eyes are directed towards Hayato.
– Who is that young man?
– He is my most precious person, and asked him for the impossible, to accompany me today.
– Hou.
Prime Minister Bratt’s gaze turns to Hayato, and the king again opens his mouth.
– Could you introduce him to me?
Those were the words of King Gra.n.a.ld.
-… Hayato.
With a brief blow, Emilia hit Hayato’s stomach with her elbow. It was a signal to introduce himself.
Putting into practice what Hayato learned, he bent down on the floor with one of his knees as a support, inclined his head and introduced himself.
– My name is Kisaragi Hayato, I belong to the first year of the Department of Martial Arts of Little Garden. I am Emilia-san’s cla.s.smate and I have come to ask his majesty’s favor for…, this…
– Hayato is a childhood friend, who also, during the Second Attack of ten years ago, was the person who saved me when I was injured by a Savage.
Emilia continued, in support of Hayato who was lost in words.
– I’ve been looking for Hayato for a long time, and when I entered Little Garden I could finally find him.
The king’s gaze once again turned to Hayato.
Hayato gulped his saliva tightly.
“So why did you bring Kisaragi Hayato-kun to me?”
“Because I want to marry him.”
Emilia said.
– So, this time I came to seek the approval of Otou-sama, I do not plan to live here in this palace, for I intend to stay with Hayato in Little Garden from now on, so I want to see the possibility if Otou-sama allows it"
– Wait a minute Princess, what are you saying?! You are Douglas-sama’s fiancé-
Prime Minister Bratt intervened appearing from the side, with a rather impatient appearance.
– I want to cancel that engagement, that"s my main reason to return to Gudenburg.
– Cancel it?
With a voice very strong, Bratt jumped.
– That’s very rude to Douglas-sama, who is your couple! To treat something like this as a joke!
– I do not think it’s a joke at all, you Bratt know very well, do not you? Because as I said, since I’ve been in the palace I do not remember ever admitting that I accepted such a compromise.
– Is that true?
King Gra.n.a.ld’s hesitation turned to Bratt.
– What are you saying, Princess!? You are the princess of the royal family, who must watch over the good of the country. Is it that you do not know of ‘n.o.blesse Oblige’?*
TN: It comes from the French, it means: n.o.bility obligates. Whoever calls himself a n.o.ble must behave like a n.o.ble.
– You who have blood relations with the kingdom of Wenz, this will be the era of chaos. With many excellent Slayers, with more times than can be protected the territory-
– As for such a thing, I did not know that. But I would like to say that there is an alternative to that.
– An alternative!
Surprised, Bratt says raising his voice.
– We, who belong to Little Garden, are to protect you. Hayato, the memorandum -
– O, okay…
Hayato took the letter that was given by the president out of his pocket and handed it to Emilia who was next to him.
– Otou-sama, read this please.
Emilia approached the king’s bed and handed the letter to him personally.
King Gra.n.a.ld opened his contents and glanced at it. While Emilia was talking about the contents inside her.
– If a crisis comes to Gudenburg, and if the current forces are not enough, Slayers will be dispatched at no cost. That is the proposal of Little Garden, which is the memorandum from its representative, Claire Harvey. However, this will only be done if I remain a student of Little Garden. About what will happen after graduation, appears on the next page. Please, read it.
At the request of Emilia, King Gra.n.a.ld turns the page.
– Even after my graduation there, to Gudenburg will be donated a ‘Variable Stone’, a learning center with Slayers of excellence, and if allowed, the company of Warslan will build a training school, as well as the dispatch of troops of Slayer without charge, as it is written there.
– Indeed, everything that Emilia said appears written here.
– But, if we include Little Garden soldiers and their support to our country, our relations with neighboring countries will worsen, and even if you think of national defense, it is better to leave it to the Federation than to forces from outside…
– Bratt!
– Y-yes!
Without taking his eyes off and with a stern look, King Gra.n.a.ld approached Bratt and whispered in his ear.
– Father and daughter have not seen each other for a long time, could you please retire now?
– But, your majesty…
He did not want to concede
It could be seen written all over Bratt’s face.
– I’m requesting it to you.
– I understand…
After being pressed, Bratt lowered his head and walked past Hayato’s side and moved his legs toward the door. On his way as he pa.s.ses between them, Bratt glances menacingly.
– Hayato, do not worry about him.
– O-okay…
Emilia whispered in his ear.
It is clearly demonstrated that the Prime Minister is against nulling the engagement.
– Emilia, come to my side.
When Bratt left the bedroom, the King spoke.
– At once, Otou-sama.
Emilia answered as she stood beside her father.
Do not bother.
Hayato stood in his position and saw how father and daughter interacted.
– Show me your face more closely.
At that, Emilia looked at King Gra.n.a.ld. Then the King touched Emilia’s face with his palm.
– You really look a lot like Remilia.
– Okaa-sama?*
*TN: In case you ask, it refers to Emilia’s mother.
With a nod, the king continued.
I really had problems with Remilia, we had very difficult times. And in the end, I was not with her at the time of her death. That’s why Emilia… I really, I want you to be happy.
– Otou-sama…
– That’s why I wanted you to go back to the palace, and I accepted Bratt’s proposal for that compromise. But I was wrong. Emilia, please forgive me.
For a moment there was a brief silence.
The king, who was chewing something, looked from the distance toward Hayato’s direction.
– Kisaragi Hayato-kun.
– Eh yes.
Hayato answered hastily, being suddenly shaken.
– The proposal sent from Little Garden, I will be delighted to accept it.
– Oh…!
Understanding what he suddenly said was something very unexpected.
– So…
Emilia’s expression shone incredibly.
– As for the engagement related to Wenz, let us do our best to null it.
– For real!
Emilia flies to the bed where King Gra.n.a.ld is.
– Thank you, Otou-sama! I love you!
The King caresses the head of Emilia. For Hayato, this figure, rather than that of a king, is that of a father.
– And one more thing…
Staring into Hayato’s eyes, the King continued.
– Hayato-kun, take care of Emilia.
Those words weighed heavily on Hayato’s shoulders.
***– How was your reunion after a long time with your father?
On leaving the King’s bedroom, Kate, who was waiting in front of the door, approached.
– I am relieved to know that it went better than I expected, and what is more, Otou-sama has approved the relationship between Hayato and myself.
– Hey, what are you saying…?
Hayato’s face filled with discomfort.
– You were asked to take care of me, were not you?
– Certainly that is what he said, but in the end we are not a couple isn"t–
– Don"t say it, Hayato!
Emilia covers Hayato’s mouth.
– We do not know who could hear this.
Certainly before that, Hayato stopped resisting.
– Apparently on the subject of engagement…
– Otou-sama, has said he will break the engagement with Wenz.
– Hime-sama, I’m glad you did!
It was Kate who gave a voice of joy. On the other hand, the expression of Claudia who waited in front of the door remained a little cloudy.
– It’s too early to be celebrating.
– What do you mean, Claudia-sama?
– The compromise between Emilia and Douglas was established by mutual agreement between the Kingdom of Gudenburg and the Kingdom of Wenz. Therefore, should it be annulled, it must first be approved by Wenz, and will they accept it…? As a result, even knowing this, that nullifying it under these circ.u.mstances, I do not know what kind of compensation they will ask for.
– That will surely be handled by Otou-sama. Besides, it’s an issue that does not concern me. Those who decided to make a marriage engagement without my authorization have to take responsibility.
At that moment, the figure of the Minister who stared at him as he pa.s.sed near him went through Hayato’s head.
Surely he will be one of those who takes responsibility.
– Other than that, I have something to ask to Kate and Claudia.
– What is it that you desire?
– What do you want?
Kate and Claudia asked, one after another.
– I would like to go out on a date with Hayato, but I am in these clothes today and I would like to change. Of course Hayato too.
***– Hmm, somehow, I cannot remain calm…
It was too flashy to be dressed in Little Garden’s uniforms, which is why Hayato wears a white shirt, a red bow tie, black cloth trousers and black slacks, that is, he"s dressed as a gentleman, and is waiting outside the room where Emilia is changing her clothes.
The suit feels pretty tight, because I’m not used to wearing clothes like that. In a way, I can understand the feeling of Emilia when I put myself in the place of her, having to wear such flashy clothes* a while back.
* TN: The word used is フ リ フ リ “furifuri”, whose google search casts different types of costumes.In addition, women take a long time to change their clothes.
About five minutes pa.s.sed since Hayato changed his clothes, when the door where Emilia was changing finally opened.
– Thanks for waiting, Hayato.
Talking about Emilia’s dress, this was a white one-piece suit, which contained fewer decorations, compared to the dress she used previously.
– You, that costume…
– Ehehe, you recognize it?
– As for that, I’ve recovered a lot of my memories.
The dress he saw Emilia in looks exactly like the one he saw when they met in Gudenburg years ago.
– Okay then, now that we’ve finished changing clothes, let’s start our date―eh, before that, Claudia.
Emilia looks at Claudia who helped her change clothes.
– What, what is it that you need?
– I’ll just say it once and it’s about surveillance, but we do not need you to follow us.
– EEHH!?
– And of course we will not need bodyguards.
– But why?
– Because you’ll be a nuisance. Besides, Hayato and I are Slayers, so we can do anything. We do not need something like that.
– That’s true, but…
Claudia had no arguments against that.
A big smile spread over Emilia’s face.
– Of course Kate will not do any unnecessary action.
– That is correct. I do not want to be hated by Hime-sama.
– In that case, we’re leaving!
With that said, Emilia took Hayato’s hand.
***Together with Hayato, they left the palace, boarded a bus and went to the older part of the city of Gudenburg.
– This neighborhood has changed considerably.
Hayato got off the bus and could not believe the view that was in front of him, and which could not have imagined ten years ago. Each building was new and modern.
– The oldest buildings collapsed almost completely when the > Second Attack occurred. The buildings you see here, are the result of the reconstruction of them. In spite of being called “Ancient town”, in fact, it owns constructions that are newer than the center of the city.Abruptly, Emilia stopped walking, when she crossed the street.
– Oh! Wait, look what"s there.
Beyond his gaze was a stall selling ice cream cones
– Do you remember, Hayato? We used to buy ice cream cones there and we ate them together.
Immediately upon hearing that, the memories of the past come back to life once more.
– If you say so, I think that such a thing really happened…
– I still remember. The first thing we ate together, the day after we met for the first time. Hayato had chosen a cone of ice cream for me, because I had left my purse in the mansion, since I had sneaked out of there.
– Oh!
Memories that resurface from the depths of the mind.
– That’s right, the feeling that you’re the same girl as that time.
– Do I look weird? Now that I"m wearing this beautiful dress?
– Not at all, certainly I think that you look beautiful, but…
– Then, what"s the difference?
– I think that maybe, you should act more like a girl?
– Eh… that… the thing is, that has a motive.
– And what would be?
– Because in Little Garden, I had to act in a masculine way, to keep my secret from being revealed.
– If that’s the case, then what about now?
– Now?
– I think it’s enough that you keep on expressing yourself as a man, even though…
The night of the festival.
That time Emilia said [Watashi]* behind the school building of the Slayers.
*TN: Watashi [私] is the feminine or formal form of the first person “I”.But then, she again expressed herself by saying [Boku*].
*TN: Boku [僕] is the masculine form of naming oneself. There is also Ore [俺], which is more informal.The only difference was when she was in front of her father.
– That I express myself more femininely? So how about this, Kisaragi Hayato?
– That, as far as femininity, will not be achieved by mimicking the president…
– I thought Hayato liked this kind of thing.
– What are you saying!?
– Ah! Have you become impatient? Hayato likes the president! While I’m only the childhood friend!
– You’re wrong. That’s not the problem, you’re the way you are, I mean, that’s fine.
– Who are you trying to fool now?
– It’s not that. Living in a palace, in a place like this, when you were talking to your father in that way, it was as if the one who was speaking was an Ojou-sama, I had the feeling that this person belonged to another world. But at that moment, I did not say anything.
– I see … if that’s the case, let’s leave it as it is. To be honest, this way I feel more comfortable, ‘Boku’
– In other words, does not that mean that now this land is yours?
– Uu, Hayato is mean.
– Leaving that aside, what you want to do? Do you want me to buy ice cream cones? Maybe it’s not the best time, since it’s not hot today though.
– It"s ok! Buy, buy, buy!
Hayato approached the stall selling ice cream cones along with Emilia, who nodded many times, submerged in joy.
– Give me two, please.
It was Hayato who ordered. And Hayato was also the one who paid. Apparently he could not pay by card, so he used the coins when making the change in advance before he reached Gudenburg.
– Thank you, Hayato.
Emilia replied with a smile and then called the salesman who was preparing the ice cream cones.
– Sir, Did you use to sell ice cream cones here before the Second Attack, right?
– Oh, miss, you were my client that time.
Hayato does not remember at all, but Emilia’s memories seemed to be fine.
The salesman then opened his eyes and his mouth widely,
– Oh! Now I remember, this kid here. Oriental youths are very rare here. He came very often to buy at that time, but since the incident occurred, he never appeared again, I was quite worried. But you’re alive. I"m really happy.
– I do not live in Gudenburg now, but I came back here after a long time with him.
– I see, I see. In that case, let me serve you a large portion of ice cream. Look! This is for the young lady.
– Uwaaa! It’s gigantic!
Incredible, the height of the cream reaches twenty centimeters.
– Be careful that you do not spill over, brother.
– Thank you.
.Hayato received the ice cream cone that was the same size as Emilia.
– If you feel like it, please come back whenever you want.
– Yup, when we return to Gudenburg, we will.
After leaving the store, they began to walk.
– After all this cone of ice cream, is delicious.
– Yeah.
Answered Hayato.
– What do you want to do now? Do you want to go to the park?
– Of course.
He answered at the same time he nodded.
As they walked licking their ice cream cones, they walked with their shoulders next to each other, until the park became visible.
– The park went through a restoration and seems to have been identical to the past.
As she says that, Emilia takes a step toward the park.
– I agree.
Hayato and Emilia sit on a bench like in the old days.
– When I do this, I feel that I traveled ten years ago.
Said Hayato.
– However, I was suddenly in trouble when the Savage were attacking.
-That is not something to laugh at.
She tentatively sketches an ironic smile.
– I’m sorry, I’m sorry. I remember, there’s a scar left that time.
– You mean the scar on your chest?
– Yeah, since I got to live in Little Garden, the mark has begun to disappear. Do you want to corroborate it now?
– EEH!?
A loud, stunned voice emitted Hayato, while Emilia put her hands on her dress.
– Ahahaha, it’s a joke.
Emilia laughed.
Apparently he’s been the victim of a prank.
– Charo says that the wound, which in a beginning was said that would not disappear for the rest of my life, has become to this because of the environment that exists in Little Garden which is made to increase the immune power of the Slayers, and may be due to the state of mind.
– State of mind?*
*TN: 気の持ちよう kinomochiyou.
– Correct, state of mind.
With that said, Emilia touched the top of her dress and rubbed where the wound was.
– This scar somehow reinforced the bond between Hayato and me. That is why, sometimes I have thought that I do not want it to disappear. However, now that I’ve been able to start again with Hayato, I don"t need it anymore.
– Hey, what do you mean…
– Which reminds me that, that day, this is what I really wanted to do to Hayato.
– Hey! What are you doing so suddenly!?
*CHUTTO*, Emilia kisses his cheek, and with it Hayato’s face becomes extremely red.
– Mou, how can you feel ashamed by such a thing? We are no longer children. Do you not you remember the other day?
– The other day―
– When we kissed on the mouth.
Emilia put the tip of her fingers on her lips as she said that. That gesture is extremely charming, Hayato skipped a beat.
– What are you going to do? Why do not you try these?
– No, that’s fine. But, why did you not kiss me on the cheek that day?
– Because on the morning of the next day, it was planned that Hayato should return to Yamato. That’s why I wanted to try to leave him a farewell kiss. That day my heart was beating so hard that I could not sleep… that’s why I came to lie down on the bench.
– That’s what I can remember too.
Saying it, he could remember
It was true. On the morning of the following day, Hayato was scheduled to return to Yamato.
– I did not like having to separate from Hayato, my heart was breaking. And so, to see you once more, I wanted to give you a kiss as a good luck charm. But, we could not meet.
Smiling, Emilia moves her hands over and over.
– Hey… hey… you…
– Hey, Hayato. We have already presented ourselves to my Otou-sama as a couple with a promise of marriage. Would it be bad if that were true?
Emilia stared at Hayato’s face and said that.
– Hey, wait a minute…
– No, look at me.
Saying that, Emilia put her hands on Hayato’s face.
– Uu…
Hayato was forced to see Emilia in front of him.
Then Emilia began to bring her face closer.
– Emilia, please, stop … not just the president, but also Dr. Charlotte have asked us to avoid having too much contact, since there are parts that are not fully comprehended about what might happen if there is interaction between two Variant.
– We are fine. So far nothing has happened. The Variant Virus is stable.
As she said that, Emilia was getting closer and closer. But there was an electronic sound that emitted the PDA that was in the pocket of the skirt of Emilia that moved the two people away.
– Aaa why, we were just at the best part. Who the h.e.l.l dares to call!
As she showed her frustration with a sharp tone, Emilia took the PDA from her pocket.
– Claudia? What does she want now?
Even demonstrating her displeasure with her lips, Emilia accepted the incoming call.
– h.e.l.lo, Claudia? There"s something wrong?
Emilia answers the phone with a grumpy appearance. Then the voice of Claudia is heard, which is strong enough even to be heard by Hayato.
– I’m sorry, Emilia-sama. But there is a serious problem! You must return to the palace as soon as possible!
***– Long time no see, Princess Emilia. I’m truly delighted to see you again, that I feel I can ascend to heaven.
The person who was waiting for Emilia to come to the palace was a young man with silver hair and dressed like royalty. His name was Douglas Edward Wenz. The third prince of the kingdom of Wenz. And the man who was Emilia’s fiancé. Beside him was the figure of Gudenburg’s Prime Minister, Bratt Fitzroy, who was the person he met when he visited the King.
– Why did Douglas come to the palace!?
– I heard the rumor that Princess Emilia had returned to Gudenburg, and I had the privilege to come here.
Saying that, Douglas knelt down, trying to hold Emilia’s hand.
– Stop!
Emilia shouted, taking her hand away from there just before Douglas could take it.
– Why did you do something like that? Are we not that engaged?
Surprised, with an expression that seemed to be very exaggerated, he presented his doubt to Emilia.
– Have not you heard anything from Bratt yet? Not long ago I consulted my Otou-sama if it was possible to get rid of this engagement, and so Otou-sama accepted.
– I had heard that.
With an expression that tightened his face, Douglas continued talking.
– Princess Emilia, I cannot believe you chose that man, Kisaragi Hayato, over me. Is that true?
– It is true. I love* Hayato.
* TN: It says: 大好 き = daisuki, which is (I like it a lot), it is a “loving” softer than ais.h.i.teru, but the latter is practically not used, unless it is private since it has a very strong connotation.– Hey, Hey, Emilia…!?
Hayato is perplexed, since Emilia links their arms together.
Looking at the two of them, Douglas makes his teeth grind with frustration.
– …I see. If she is able to say something like that, then I have no other choice than myself, to prove if Kisaragi Hayato really is a man fit for Princess Emilia.
Saying that, he deploys his armament.
– HUNDRED ON!
The ring in his right hand shines, and becomes a Broadsword.His armament appeared to be similar to Hayato’s Chevalier type. Then he points with the edge of his sword, >, Red Glory, to Hayato.– Hey, Douglas, what do you think you’re doing!?
Emilia shouted.
– It’s a challenge to a duel.
– Duel?
As he stared at Hayato, Douglas declared.
– The wife of a Slayer, must have the same skills as the Slayer. You know what it is necessary for the future of mankind. I"d like you to show me if your ability is suitable for it.
– Hold on, Douglas. I like Hayato, I do not care if he’s not the best Slayer that exists!
– Please wait, Princess Emilia. This duel will also be beneficial to you.
It was Bratt who stepped in and spoke from the side.
– What is it you’re talking about, Bratt?
– Douglas-sama said: “If Kisaragi Hayato is victorious in the duel, we will give up the engagement to Princess Emilia.”
– Is that true?
– I swear by the G.o.ds of heaven and earth.
At Emilia’s question, Douglas replied with his head down.
– But, in case I win the duel, Princess Emilia will return to Gudenburg, and she will marry me. If, on the contrary, you reject it, for the next ten years, 80% of the distribution of the Savage cores and the Variable Stone, which the United Nations gives to the kingdom of Gudenburg, will be received by my Kingdom, the Kingdom of Wenz. That would be the cost of canceling the engagement.
– How can you ask for something like that!?
Claudia screamed hysterically.
– Such a demand, it is impossible to accept! In addition to suffering an economic loss, the military force will also fall, the position that the Kingdom of Gudenburg has within Britannia will vanish!
– H-Hey, Emilia…
What to do, Hayato looks into Emilia’s eyes. Hayato is totally unaware of the ability of that guy. It is impossible to judge by just seeing it.
– It’s too bustling inside, what is happening in here?
It was the voice of a transparent woman who dominated the place with a few words.
In addition to Hayato and Emilia, Douglas, Bratt, Claudia and Kate who were also in that place looked in the direction from which came that voice.
Who was there was a woman in a white dress with a high hood, where a thin cloth that hung from that covered the upper half of her face, and on both sides of her, wearing short skirts, were two young ladies wearing habits of black color that gave the impression that allowed them to have a better mobility.
The voice belonged to the woman in the center with the hood.
The three people walked from the back of the palace in the direction of Hayato and company.
– This is the royal palace, the king’s residence! Is not a place to withdraw and swing your weapon!
– Who do you think you are! Do not you know who I am!
Douglas moved the tip of his sword that was in the direction of Hayato toward the person in the white habit. The thin cloth breaks and her face is exposed.
Pale, blond hair. It was a beautiful woman whose face had perfect features. At the same time, the young women standing next to her shouted with their hands holding the crucifix on her chest.
– HUNDRED ON!!
The crucifix turns into golden particles and then a giant halberd forms in their hands.
The girls then point their weapons at Douglas.
– Lower your weapons.
The woman in the white habit said.
– Are you sure?
– Do not worry, cancel your armaments.
The two girls listened to the words and they dematerialized the armament.
– The person who calls himself the Prince of Wenz, is a wild one.
Then the woman dressed in white continued, addressing her words to Douglas.
– …So if you know me, why that att.i.tude? Tell me what your name is!
– I’m going to ask you to lower your weapon first, please.
– Answer my question!
– It can"t be helped.
The woman in a white habit murmured as if she were surprised, and then she moved the palm of her hand toward Douglas.
– Fly, vulgar.
Then Douglas’s body flew a couple of meters and crashed into the wall.
– What? What was that? What the h.e.l.l are you, d.a.m.n it!!?
Using his sword as a cane, Douglas staggered to his feet. In his face, one could see the expression of terror emanating from him.
That would be natural. No one could understand what she did, not even Hayato or Emilia.
– I am Serivia Notredame, Paul III. The current Pontiff of the > Puritaria.– Re-really…?
Hearing that name, Douglas’s eyes widened. Hayato is the same.
Speaking of the Pontiff, representative of Puritaria, is a religious leader capable of having the same authority as the king of a country.
– Impossible, to think that the Pope was a woman…
Emilia murmured spontaneously.
– Is it so strange?
The pontiff smiled and continued.
– There were moments in the past when the Pope were women… Although, this was kept in complete secrecy. In addition, it is supposed that the Pope should not expose their face to the public.
– Serivia-sama, the other one is over there.
The one that spoke was the girl standing on the right side of the Pope.
– Understood.
In response, Serivia looked to where the girl standing on her right side was pointing her finger, and focused her gaze.
– Those people who feel hostility towards us, we ask you, please, immediately release your arms and throw them in front of us.
Hayato could not understand the meaning of those words. Because it turns out that where she looked at, there was no one.
– It can"t be helped. There is no alternative but to respond to animals than being an animal per se.
By saying that and from her right hand, Serivia made appear a dagger that emitted light.
(What will she do now?)
It did not appear to be a materialized weapon. She also did not say a keyword.
The pontiff threw the dagger at the wall. But it didn"t land on it. It made a loud noise in the air and then fell to the ground. Then a silver-haired girl in a black helmet and suit suddenly appeared in that place.
Before mentioned woman, Serivia said.
– Apparently, your Hundred has the ability to capture the surrounding and reflect it on your Variable Suit. It is best to be used as a guard.
– !!
The black-clad woman gritted her teeth, unable to say anything.
– Is she one of your subordinates, third prince of Wenz?
– Tch, of course, it is only natural for me, the third prince of a country, to have bodyguards around me!
At the same time Douglas shouted, the door through which Serivia entered opened again.
– Who will enter now?
– Your Majesty!
Cried Bratt.
– Are you OK?
Bratt hurried to King Gra.n.a.ld who was walking hard, and used his body for support.
– I’m really sorry, King Gra.n.a.ld. Although I came to visit you, this became a mess. Is your body feeling better already?
– Do not worry, Your Holiness-sama, I feel better for now. What’s important, what kind of situation is this, Bratt? In addition, you…
The sight of King Granard is headed toward Douglas.
Douglas then knelt down and introduced himself to the king.
– I am the third son of the Emperor of the Kingdom of Wenz, Douglas Edward Wenz. Today, I heard that Princess Emilia had returned to Gudenburg, and that she had requested the annulment of the marriage engagement, so I hastened to come here.
– That’s what this is about…
Apparently they could understand the situation in general.
Then followed Bratt supporting the above.
– However, the attempt of Douglas-dono was in vain, since the princess Emilia wants to annul in any way her engagement with Douglas-dono. That’s why the fuss…
– His majesty, all that Douglas-dono said, that if the compromise is annulled, for the next decade, 80% of the Savage cores and the ‘Variable Stone’ sent by the United Nations to the Kingdom of Gudenburg will go to the Kingdom of Wenz.
It is Claudia who said that with a certain level of indignation.
Similarly, King Gra.n.a.ld’s expression becomes stiff at this.
– Bratt, is that true, about the conditions regarding cancellation of the engagement? Although I regret it a lot, I do not find that the demand really is so exacerbated.
– This is the case where it cannot be resolved by a duel.
– … A duel, that"s…?
-That is so. If it is possible for you to see a duel between Kisaragi Hayato and me, then it is certain that Emilia-Hime will fall in love with me. That is why I have such confidence, that I request to you the possibility of authorizing the duel between Kisaragi Hayato and myself.
– That is absolutely impossible!
– In other words, Princess Emilia, do you mean to give up?
– What do you say, I never said anything like that!
– I get it. His majesty also seems to show signs of disapproval, so let"s change the condition. If Kisaragi Hayato accepts a duel with me, regardless of the result, to that point the engagement is already ruled out. But, if I win against Kisaragi Hayato, as a change to the aforementioned condition, you will promote me as Commander of the Slayer troops of the Allied Forces of the Federation of Britannia.
– What, what things are you saying, you!
It is Claudia who interrupts by raising her voice.
. – That request is also unthinkable. Not only limited to the management of Allied Forces Slayer, the commander of all units, is a position occupied by people from the sovereign country, which is Gudenburg. It is impossible to consider it from a perspective for national defense and even less, the people of Gudenburg will definitely not approve! Even the Prime Ministers, to this day, have never come from Wenz!
– You certainly cannot say the same thing, Miss.
Who said that was the Prime Minister, Bratt.
– …But your Majesty, he has certainly abandoned the subject of concessions of his previous condition and now that we must fight against the Savages in all Britannia, if we have Douglas-dono who is the third prince of Wenz leading the troops of Slayers, who also in his country possesses many excellent Slayers, if you think about it"s not bad at all. Wenz’s position as first commander would not be a bad compensation given that his name has been stained up by the abandonment of the engagement. In addition to―.
Bratt’s gaze is directed toward Hayato.
– As a result of new research, isn"t Hayato-dono an extraordinary and excellent Slayer within Little Garden? If he defeated Hayato-dono in a duel and takes victory, then it is more than likely that the inhabitants of Gudenburg will agree with it.
After hearing those words, Emilia thinks that Bratt is a type of guru.
The political party of which Bratt is the representative brings political ideas like the subject of reconciliation with the Kingdom of Wenz, besides that receives a strong support from the royal family of Wenz. That is why he has such a deep relationship with Douglas. And there may be the possibility of a secret pact with the royal family of Wenz, from which he could have obtained the cooperation in the election as Prime Minister, so as to eventually give some sort of position to the royal family of Wenz.
– I see. If Hayato-kun is okay with it, I’ll acknowledge the duel.
– Your Majesty, are you serious?
Claudia shouted.
There is no other way if it is to break the engagement. In addition, Britannia United* is one of the most beloved wishes of the Federation of Britannia, and a dream for me that has a few years of life left.
* TN: Says “O-ru Buritania, All Brittania, it sounds bad but that"s how It is in the raw.– Knowing and respecting each other’s country, it is essentially true that those who have an innate ability are born with it or come from a certain family, but have a sense of strong responsibility, and are truly righteous. What about you, Hayato-kun?
When asked, Hayato set his eyes on Emilia. She suddenly nodded.
– Very well, I agree.
Hayato said firmly.
– When is the date of the duel?
Douglas answers Emilia’s question.
– What do you think about tomorrow at noon?
– Hayato do you agree to that?
– Yes, no problem.
He agrees and nods.
– Even though I’m not directly involved with this, would it be possible to join me as a spectator?
– Huh…?
All members present there were surprised, of course Hayato too, seeing that Serivia was getting into the discussion.
– No no, for the Pope attending that kind of―.
It was Bratt who said that with some bashfulness.
– There is no need to feel insecure. The agenda we had occupied for today, and since tomorrow there is nothing, we will have the privilege of being able to stay here, in the palace, tonight. I want to express my most sincere thanks and-
– Are you completely sure?
It is King Gra.n.a.ld who calls her attention, requesting an answer.
– That’s right, there is no problem.
Serivia replied immediately and continued.
– It’s because I want to see the excellent Slayer of Little Garden and the Prince of Wenz, that turns out to be also the Kingdom of Slayers.
– Serivia-sama. It’s almost time for the next plan.
The girls on either side of Serivia spoke one after another.
– Oh my oh my, I see. Very well then, if you will excuse us, we will retire. Kisaragi Hayato and Princess Emilia, you will stay here in the palace, correct? Then we are likely to see each other again. At that moment, I will be under your care.
As she said that, Serivia would leave the palace next to the two followers.
– Very well, if you’ll excuse me.
Douglas takes the woman who is his escort and leaves the palace.
– Princess Emilia.
Just when she crossed over to Emilia and Hayato.
– Certainly that man, of course, there is nothing special to come from Little Garden, I knew that immediately. In the same way I will be deeply alert as to my judgment may be wrong. Now if you want to resolve the issue of cancellation, please tell me as soon as possible. If you excuse me.
***– … Even when I come to Gudenburg, I"ll encounter a duel…
Hayato, who sits on a chair in a room, that looks quite similar to a luxury hotel, mutters as he looks up at the ceiling.
This is a guest room that is located on the second floor of the guest building on the west side of the palace where the king lives.
It is the room where Emilia will sleep today.
Originally, the royal family lives on the east side of the building, and although she was also living on the east side, Emilia said she did not want to go there, so Hayato decided to stay in the room next to it.
– First of all, let’s inform the president.
Emilia, who hung Hayato’s coat on the hanger at the entrance to the bedroom, took the Tablet PC from the briefcase that had previously been transported to this place.
– You’re right.
The purpose of Hayato’s visit to Emilia’s room was to report themselves.
Emilia put the tablet on a small round table in front of him and sat in the chair next to Hayato. And together they look towards the Tablet. But Hayato does not get along with machines, so it’s Emilia who operates the device. It changed the state of the switch to on and the application launched the communication that makes the call to the president. After two dialing tones, communication was established. The appearance of the president is displayed on the tablet.
[Thank you for keeping in touch…, you, what happened to you, that appearance…]
Hayato remembers that they are not currently wearing Little Garden uniforms.
– Well, a lot of things happened.
*Ahaha* laughed Emilia, trying to hide what happened and continued.
– Leaving that aside, we have things to report but, so many events have happened that it has all become really chaotic.
[Chaotic? But what happened there?]
Then Hayato began to relate the facts, putting them in order, from his arrival in Gudenburg.
It was reported that Emilia’s father was better than he thought, since he accepted Little Garden’s proposal, and said he would nullify her engagement. However, there was one person opposed to this, her fiancée Douglas, who said he would not accept the abandonment of the engagement.
If that was done, then for the next decade 80% of both the Variable Stone and the cores that were obtained from the Savages, which the United Nations destined to the Kingdom of Gudenburg, had to be transferred to the Kingdom of Wenz.
[That’s a highly complicated demand. It would put even Little Garden in trouble]
If you wish to send a Slayer without cost to Gudenburg, then you could send the Variable Stone and the Savage cores as a thank you to Little Garden.
– But, that is already in the past. On the other hand, Hayato has to face Douglas tomorrow.
[Please wait a moment. A battle? What, couldn"t you have talk about it?]
– Well, it’s just… that…
Hayato continues with the summary.
While they were in the middle of the dispute with Douglas on the subject of the demand, and as a goal to visit the king who was sick, they met the Pope of the > Puritaria.Then in the middle of the conversation the king appeared, and if Hayato accepted the duel, the matter related to the cancellation of the engagement was over. But if Hayato loses, then Douglas will serve as Commander of the Slayers of the Allied Forces of the Federation of Britannia.
[So it was the Pope of > Puritaria]– It seems that she came to see the king who was sick. President do you know this person?
[No, I have not met her in person. But, being a person with a very high magical power, I have not heard much about it. It is known that she possesses a skill that exceeds human knowledge, very different from the five types of sensory organs that the human being possesses that are that of vision, hearing, touch, taste and smell, which is cataloged as the sixth sense, with which she predicted the > Second Attack. That is, you did not know about that?]– Now that you mention it, I’ve heard something about it…
[Leaving that aside, let’s go back to the main topic. In other words, there was no other option but to accept the duel in order to annul the engagement, is that not so?]
Seeing Hayato that says “Yes,” Claire sighs heavily.
[If that’s the case, it’s because there was no alternative. There is no choice but to carry out the duel. Needless to say you should take the victory anyway. Understood? ]
– Yes, of course.
Hayato answered firmly.
[A good answer. They may have some information there, but I will send to you the personal information about Douglas Edward Wenz through the Little Garden Intelligence Department in a few minutes]
About ten minutes pa.s.sed since the report with the president ended when an incoming call appeared on the Tablet PC. It was a call from Charlotte. Emilia accepted it.
– What happened Charlotte?
[No matter where you go, things always happen.]
As soon as the face of Charlotte suddenly appeared on the Tablet PC, she talked and continued.
[I have to show you the information of Douglas Edward Wenz that was previously compiled by the Department of Intelligence, but there are certain points that are of concern. So I thought I’d give them some brief advice about them. Now I’ll send you the information, so wait a moment.]
The screen changes and Douglas’s personal information is displayed.
Hayato stares at it as if trying to devour all that information.
[As you can see, the reaction value of his Hundred is acceptable, and of course his average skill power is quite high―even reaching values like Liddy’s. But it does not go beyond that. He has never fought against the Savage, even being royalty, and it is because it is unnecessary for them, to avoid any danger. On the contrary, has never partic.i.p.ated in an official game, there are no records of that. Certainly, it may not be the most powerful Slayer from Wenz. However, there are reports that so far, he has not lost a single duel]
– How can that person be the strongest if he has never fought against anyone?
[Um, no, it"s not that. Despite the fact that the spread information has little time to really be as it says he is, but apparently he is capable of performing ‘Dual Act’]
– Are you sure of it?
Emilia raised her voice, surprised.
– "Dual Act" It is that which allows Hundred to be deployed simultaneously, if I am not mistaken?
As he remembered what they had learned in cla.s.s, Hayato replied in the form of a question:
[Indeed it is so]
Charlotte nodded.
[Apparently he did not let others realize this in the middle of the battle, and deployed another Hundred that completely pierced the defense of his opponent, giving him victory]
– Doesn"t that sound like cheating?
He really is a person who likes to play dirty
If he had not heard it here, Hayato would have been really surprised at the time of the duel.
[Currently, there is no restriction as to the number of Hundred that can be deployed in battles or simulated combats, carried by a country or organization. First, Hayato-kun, did you know that there are not many Slayers who can do ‘Dual Act’?]
– Uhmm, I can certainly say that it is more difficult than full armament, I think…
[Exactly]
– Now that you say it, is he able to perform full armament?
[Looks like he can do it]
Charlotte answered Emilia’s doubt.
[Regarding the handling of his Hundred, he is considerably good at it]
– I understand.
After a few moments in silence, Emilia again opens her mouth.
– So, honestly, what do you think is the probability of victory, Charo?
[Including the fact that that person uses ‘Dual Act’, and now that you know about it, the probability that Hayato-kun wins exceeds 80%. Liza has given the same answer. Besides, he does not know about that ability of yours. That’s because that ability is not written in Hayato-kun’s Personal Information]
That ability, it refers to the skill related to Variant power.
– I see…
Releasing a long sigh of relief, Emilia continued.
– I am glad to know that the duel would not take place immediately. Thanks to this, we were able to obtain this valuable information.
[Even so, do not think that your rival will not investigate about you. So do not neglect this, do not think it will be presented without having prepared something beforehand. I have to retire, visitors have arrived, so I have work to do. If you’ll excuse me]
With those words, the connection with Charlotte was terminated.
– How can you tell me to accept the duel, and yet he has a skill you do not know about?
Once, she was his fiancée.
Hayato thought that she already knew it.
– That’s because I’ve never been interested. Hayato is the only one I like. And I also thought that Hayato is absolutely more powerful. In fact, most of the data information says that they are higher for Hayato. Charo also said that you would definitely win.
– In truth, you are as optimistic as ever.
Hayato takes a deep breath.
– But you will not win unless you think you can win. As the saying goes: “Illness and health begin with the mind”*. According to this, the Hundred have the same ability to react to the power of emotions. You should not think about defeat at all, but think about how important it is to gain victory in the duel.
*TN: Basically, it means that according to the disposition of the mind, it is how the body will react. If I want to feel good, my body will be fine.Emilia nods and reveals a big smile on her face.
*Fuaaaa* Hayato lets out a big yawn from his mouth.
– Are you sleepy, Hayato?
– Even though I’ve managed to get used to th