Chapter 3
Black Raid
“……”
I slowly opened my eyes.
I could see the blue sky.
While feeling the chill and the wind blowing past my skin, I stared at the sky that
stretched to the horizon.
At the same time, I gradually noticed that my entire body was in pain and I
attempted to recall the memories that cut off during the last 10 minutes……What
emerged in my mind was a single blow with terrifying speed from that person.
Once again, I could not do anything and lost consciousness……
Towards the shameful act that was exposed numerous times, I dropped my head
deep down inside my heart.
Carried out on the surrounding walls was the training with Aizu-san.
Under her severe fighting guidance, losing my consciousness seems to have
already become something common. Currently, it was probably because I was
easily knocked out so I was in the state where I was lying down on the surrounding
walls.
How long did I sleep this time, while I appreciate the gentle feelings below my
head, I continued to think blankly……Suddenly, I was caught off guard.
The golden eyes was staring directly at my face.
“Are you alright?”
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“……UWAHHH!?”
Towards Aizu-san’s face that appeared in the center of my vision, I leaked out a
strange sound and sat up.
As if I was trying to leave that place using the momentum of the roll, I stood up
and turned my head back. Aizu-san was currently sitting on her knees on the stone
floor.
……Looks like I was given a lap pillow again.
Was it because of the incident——The incident about fainting after releasing
continuous usage of Magic—— that happened in the Dungeon before, I do not
know why Aizu-san seems to give me a lap pillow during the period when I lose
my consciousness.
I was happy…happy to the extent that I could not suppress it……But if I continue
to think about it, I should just die. In a variety of meanings, I was extremely
ashamed.
While Aizu-san incredulously stared at me, who was bright red, she continued to,
patapata, and pat the top of her upper thighs.
I seemed to rattled horizontal and shook my head.
“Your body, is it alright?”
“……Yes.”
With a red face, I sat down closely next to Aizu-san (I was invited by her waving)
While my butt felt the cold stone, I placed my back onto the rock pile behind me.
The entire day today, I accepted Aizu-san’s guidance.
How it became like this, it was because I received this from Lili, “Today I must
help out the place where I spend the night so I will not be able to accompany you
to explore the dungeon”, this kind of contact.
Instead of heading down the Dungeon by myself, although it was somewhat
despicable, but I still attempted to expressed the feelings roaring in my chest and
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discussed with Aizu-san, while having a hot face……Even though it was well pass
the early morning period, we were still training underneath the clear blue skies.
Only that right now, it was a temporary break.
“T…That…I…Did I make a bit of progress?”
“……Why?”
“No, about that, because I keep fainting recently……”
While the distance between the two of us was close enough to embrace each other,
I bit my teeth and threw out a topic.
Aizu-san wordlessly stared directly in front, where she could only see my face.
“You, have indeed been changing……To a shocking degree.”
“T…That…But……”
“Half of the reason……You fainted…was because my mistake of estimating my
strength.
“I…It can’t be like this!?”
Aizu-san slowly closed half her eyes. Although it was no different than her usual
expression, but I was about to understand it slightly that, at this time, she was still
depressed.
I hurriedly tried to encourage Aizu-san, who did not even notice that her shoulders
had dropped down. At the same time, I did not know why I felt that my body was
savoring an incredible feeling.
It was a flower that was normally unattainable.
Even though this fact should not have changed, but I was able to communicate
with this person closely. Placing the person, who was not the <Sword Princess>,
into my eyes.
Although I could not describe it properly with language……That’s right, it feels
that it is lacking a sense of reality.
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Only that she, who was originally beautiful and sublime, have slightly changed.
Just like a normal girl……Only at this time, I was able to feel it.
Looking at her figure, who became depressed for a meager thing, you would think
of that.
“……Can you listen?”
“Eh?”
Due to Aizu-san muttering this question, I, who was thinking seriously, had my
consciousness brought back.
Looking to the side, I do not know when Aizu-san had already concealed her
depression and seriously looked over here.
“Why can you become strong so quickly?”
“Become…Strong……?”
Towards the content that she asked, I rolled my eyes around.
Strong, this vocabulary, I do not know why this does not seem to match me.
Then I recalled the variously unsightly things I did up to date. Although I wanted
to dig a hole and bury myself inside, but seeing Aizu-san’s eyes firmly fixed onto
this side, I seriously thought for a while.
The reason I wanted to become stronger……No, the reason why I was still able to
become stronger……
“……That, there is a person that I wanted to chase up no matter what. I desperately
wanted to chase after that person and unconsciously reached this level, in
short……”
My thoughts were not properly integrated and so I was unable to express it with
my words.
Compared to saying these words in front of the person I wanted to chase after, I
could not stand the embarrassment.
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My thoughts were completely messed up, but I finally managed to say the next
sentence.
“……In short, it is because there is a place I want to achieve.”
Towards this answer, Aizu-san widened her eyes slightly.
After staring at me in silence for a while, she slowly raised her face and looked
above her head.
“So it’s like this……”
With a posture of hugging her knees, she concentrated at looking at the sky.
In front of my eyes and nose, the golden hair was currently being combed by the
wind.
“…….I understand.”
Towards the wind chimes-like whisper, I muttered “Eh?”.
“I also……”
The words after that were completely engulfed by the rapidly blowing winds.
Towards the powerful wind that blew from the side, I unconsciously closed my
eyes.
The cool breeze that blew from the west. As if it was like the sound of the whistle
that flew everywhere around the surrounding walls.
I timidly opened my eyes, there was no change in her posture. Aizu-san continued
to stare at the sky.
“T…That……”
“?”
“Ah, no……Nothing…Happened.”
Looking at Aizu-san, who tilted her head while lacking emotions on her face, I did
not continue to ask.
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If I ask, what can I do. While I recalled that I have never seen her make such eyes,
I asked myself.
After that, nobody spoke. Just when my body felt slightly restless.
From the east side of the city, came the clock’s declaration of noon.
I listened to the pure sound that was like the church’s bell. Even if it was opposite
of the city, you could still listen to the sound of horse neighing from outside the
surrounding walls. Was it merchants that was about to enter the Labyrinth City,
they were probably being checked by the guild.
Where we were currently located at was a stone paved road at the top of the
surrounding walls. On both sides, there stands a slightly tall battlement. The scene
of the city could be glanced completely if you look into the inside of the city.
Looking outside will allow you to see the stretches of grassland, forests and
mountains.
Allowing the city’s clock chimes and the bustling noise outside of the city enter
my ears…The weather is great, is what I thought.
Due to the warm sunlight that projected due from the cloudless blue sky, I could
not help but narrow my eyes.
“Fuah……”
“……?”
I turned my head and looked to side, Aizu-san was currently using her hand to
cover her mouth.
The peach-like mouth was slightly opening……She was currently yawning.
While being bathed by the warm sunlight, she hugged her knees again as if nothing
had happened and recovered her original position.
Shortly after that happened.
“Afternoon nap training, you won’t do it?”
“Ha?”
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Towards the proposal that did not match with training, I was stunned.
Looking in front, Aizu-san responded faintly.
“In the Dungeon, no matter what, you must be able to sleep.”
“……”
“Whether or not you could recover your strength is also very important.”
That is probably true.
Although I currently return on the day I enter the Dungeon, but as the floors
continued to fall, there may be a need to stay at the Dungeon for long periods of
time. At that time, I might be targeted by Monsters, there will also be no soft,
fluffy bed. To an Adventurer, it was completely bad if you could not let your body
rest well.
Aiz-san talked about the importance of sleeping, no matter what occasion, with a
serious expression.
But I, with a subtle expression, did not intersect with her eyesight and she asked.
“That……Could it be…very disturbed?”
“……”
Towards this accusation, Aizu-san, who was staring in front, slowly turned her
head towards my direction.
“It’s training.”
“O…Okay.”
Towards Aizu-san, who leaned her face over, I could only nod my head while
sweating.
Although I frowned slightly, and made a serious expression……However, my
cheeks were slightly dyed red.
M…My chest hurts……! Idiot, me……!
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“T…That……Are we sleeping here?”
“Nnn, Yes.”
Aizu-san nodded towards my inquiry. She moved slightly forward from her
position leaning on the back, and just like that she fell asleep.
The path on the surrounding walls was extremely hard. It could not even be called
as beautifully made due to the numerous bumps of different heights.
In front of Aizu-san, who seemed to not care and lied down on the stone path, there
was a feeling of recognizing a First-Class Adventurer’s capabilities.
Towards them, who will have to rest in variety of places after entering the Deep
Floors, in such a sleeping place ——Precisely it was because they did not feel it
was uncomfortable——probably they were already accustomed to it.
“Not sleeping?”
“Ah, O…Okay……”
Being looked upon from below, it has become a strange thing. While I thought
about this, I moved closely towards her due to my urges.
Towards Aizu-san, who was sleeping defenselessly, although I had hesitated in that
moment——No, I will normally not do such a thing—— whether or not I should
do a strange thing, but after glancing at the bright shining saber, I let out a hollow
smile and thought again. I would probably be beheaded immediately if I do such
shameless acts.
Instead of saying that she lost her alertness, why not say that although it was
temporary, she was still taking care of me as a disciple, perhaps it was the sincerity
of her style that reflects it.
……Anyways, this is also training.
“E…Excuse me……”
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I timidly lay down on the ground with my face facing the sky next to where Aizusan
was sleeping.
This should be obvious, there was no traces of wanting to sleep. The sound of my
heartbeat was too noisy.
I inadvertently turned to the side. With a sideways sleeping posture, Aizu-san’s
face appeared in my gaze, I hurriedly looked away.
With my eyebrows twitching, I awkwardly closed my eyes.
Maintaining a posture where I faced the sky, sleep quickly sleep quickly sleep
quickly, I muttered to myself.
“……?”
Shortly after, a faint breathing sound entered my ears.
I opened my eyes and quietly peeked, Aizu-san had her eyes closed. It seems that
she had already fallen asleep.
So…So fast……
She did talk about how recovering stamina was crucial, could she have been
accustomed about how to sleep?
Or perhaps was she really tired so she could immediately fall asleep……
“……B…Bell.”
……Eh?
“Go, Bell.”
……Ehhh?
Suddenly a nostalgic voice came from the depths of my mind.
It couldn’t have misheard it……It was the voice of my grandfather, who brought
me up instead of my parents. I do not know why it echoed directly inside my head
at this time.
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Facing this increasingly powerful voice, I finally began to think that it was an
hallucination.
(……Huh, strange?)
Aizu-san, she became closer……?
Is it an illusion. I narrowed my half-opened eyes.
At first, we were separated by a distance of two people’s space. Why……
“It’s time to go, Bell.”
The next instant, it approached a distance where her face was extremely close by.
“!?”
Finally, I noticed the strangeness here.
Maintaining a posture where we faced each other, the distance between each other
had indeed shortened.
Could A…Aizu-san move over while she was confused in her sleep……N…No,
she did not even move her body a single centimeter!
C…Could it be……!?
“G—O—”
——Was it me that leaned over!?
Facing this emergency situation that was unlikely to occur, it feels that my heart
had stopped working. Nasty sweat was released over my entire body.
N…No, it can’t be mistaken. My body was moving over to Aizu-san step by step!
Why!? What’s the logic!? It can’t be that I wanted to some strange things!?
I’ll be cut!?
“Go take advantage of this sleep and attack—”
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(Huhhhh!?)
It was even closer.
With her eyes closed, Aizu-san’s face was becoming bigger, even the details of her
innocent and cute sleeping face could be seen clearly.
Her smooth and delicate white skin, her slender neck……He small, pleasant pink
lips.
Facing this imminent, clear and intense scene, my face began to be dyed red in a
terrifying momentum.
(Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute!?)
There was no way but to cry out inside my heart.
As if my actions were faithful to my grandfather and was like a bomb that was
deeply ingrained, I unbiasedly crawled over to Aizu-san. Also, I revealed a
sensitive feeling that did not allow this person noticing me from approaching her.
What on earth happened!?
I…I…It can’t be….I …to this person……!?
“Kiss her—“
UWAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!?
“——Wait a minute, Bell-kun!”
Just at that moment.
As if was blaming my evil acts, Kami-sama’s (Hestia) voice came from my mind.
“Attacking a sleeping lady in her sleep, how could I allow this kind of behavior! I
do not remember raising you to become this kind of child!”
My heart and body suddenly began to shake.
It was the feeling as if I had taken control back of my body and heart that was
being controlled by something.
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I…It’s exactly what Kami-sama had said……!
“Kissing with that girl is not allowed, absolutely not allowed! Absolutely NOT!!”
Facing Kami-sama’s unprecedented, desperate roar, I had sweat flowing while I try
to gain some distance from Aizu-san.
Only that my movements became abnormally slow, almost as if there were two
wills that were fighting against each other inside my body. Saying that it was a
reaction force was fine.
Kami-sama’s Oracle (Light) and Grandfather’s Bewitching words (Dark) were
currently violently colliding with each other.
“Quickly go away——“
“From now on, this is a holy battle—“
“——Ah, you bastard, what are you doing, WAHHH!?”
——Kami-sama lost!
The powerful vibration from defeating Kami-sama caused the scale to be tilted.
From what cannot be called a distance, it was suddenly shortened. I approached to
the location where Aizu-san’s nose and mine could touch.
“……!”
The beautiful sleeping face with closed eyes was currently directly within my sight.
My eyes could not focus. Facing the nose and eyes of the face from the person in
front of me, my consciousness and body began to burn and it was red and hot.
Despite the residual laughter sounds from grandfather that echoed within my ears, I
prepared to move my lips to overlap with that person.
“Wait……a minute.”
“!!”
My body instantly retrieved its freedom.
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The muscles on my face twitched, I stumbled to the side and broke away from
Aizu-san’s side.
My heart seems to be engraving with a rhythm as if it will immediately fall apart.
Sweat did not stop.
The illusionary voice of regret from grandfather still was not completely
eliminated. I fearfully turned my head towards my back and looked at her.
“……”
Aizu-san did not wake up.
She still had closed eyes and ,suusuu, released faint breathing sound that could not
be heard with ears.
All the strength inside my body gradually disappeared.
(……Wait… for me a bit?)
The trembling sound, bakubaku, that entered my ears was still from my chest. I
recalled the movement of that person’s lips.
It isn’t… Wait a minute……But wait for me a bit.
It can’t be wrong, it feels that person’s lips had moved like this.
Although I considered thinking about the meaning of this phrase, but a strong gush
of self-loathing swallowed it. I began to hug my head and quietly groaned. What is
it, What did I want to do……!!
UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH……While I continued to moan
without making a sound next to her, I felt embarrassed about my own actions.
“……Ha.”
I was temporarily embraced by a sense of disgust that could not be eliminated.
I sighed. This time, in order to not repeat falling to the darkness, I separated
ourselves by a huge distance. Then I recovered the posture of staring at the sky.
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In my heart, I repeated whispered an apology. During this period, my burning face
finally cooled down.
“……”
Although I did not hear that being so stubborn was futile, I maintained a certain
breathing rhythm.
I was troubled at the very end, just only once, I promised myself and I slowly
turned my cheeks so it touched the stone floor and stared at that person.
“……”
Just in front, it was really nearby. That person’s face was there.
The hidden breathing sounds faintly brushed through my ears. The overflowing
golden hair were scattered all over her cheeks.
It could not be helped but to make others forget that she was stronger than anyone
else. It was a sweet and innocent sleeping face.
Even if I were to leaned over a bit, the stretched out hands will be able to touch
that location……That person was currently quietly asleep.
What kind of hero’s legend is this.
Under a curse, a lonely princess-sama was sleeping for centuries.
Until her hero descends, she will not wake up. A princess that will be endlessly in
slumber.
I do not know why but I overlapped the illustrations of a myth that I was addicted
to in my childhood with the person that was quietly issuing out a stable breathing
sound.
“……”
I did not say a word and continued to look at that sleeping face, then I turned my
face back to its original posture.
Just like that, I stared at the sky. I raised my left hand and quietly pulled my cheeks.
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It hurts.
(As expected, it was just like a dream……)
Being able to stay like this beside that person. Being able to share a time between
the two of us.
I lowered my hand that was pulling my cheek and I looked at the blue sky that
seems to suck everything up.
The feelings I had up till now had become transparent, as if I had vented out all the
physical and mental feelings.
In the center of the surrounding walls where the sun’s ray enveloped it, two people
were currently lying down together. I slowly closed my eyelids and immersed in a
short rest.
× × ×
The surrounding walls of Orario were tough as rock and also extremely enormous.
The walls that surrounded Orario were naturally circular. The path on top of it also
followed the shape of the walls, the uneven stone floor even extends for a week.
Normally, nobody should be able to approach the top part of the walls that were
forbidden from entry. The walls of Orario were built rather high not because it was
to resist against attacks from the outside, but for the defense of the Dungeon. Even
if you were to enter a high-rise building, you will never be able to see the top. It is
even more unquestionable from the ground.
Furthermore, the walls also had battlements. As long as one selected the location,
there was no need to worry about being noticed by others.
Carrying out training on top of the walls would allow nobody to peek and nobody
to observe.
Even if it was to revealed to both sides of their <Familia>, in order for Bell’s
training to be hidden from the public, there was no better preparation that could be
done compared to what Aizu had thought about.
“Mmmm, there is also a place that can clearly see it.”
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Although it is only limited, but it was the vision from the tallest skyscraper facility
in the center.
Located at Babel’s upmost floor in her own room, she was sitting on an
extravagant chair. Freya had saw clearly Bell and Aizu sleeping on the walls.
The battlements that overlooked below suddenly lost its meaning, both Bell and
Aizu’s action were cleanly exposed to her.
“The Sword Princess’s brilliance is somewhat too bright……”
Center of Dungeon, The upmost floor of Babel, which is up to the 50th floor.
Although from there, being able to see Bell and Aizu, who were situated at the
outer edge of the city, it could be described as an absurd distance. However,
Freya’s <Eye> could clearly see the brilliance of the boy and the girl.
Although it was a small, but clear and transparent light, and a powerful and
dazzling golden light, which caused others to be blinded, both of it could not
escape from Freya’s <Eye> that could recognized the essence of the <Soul>.
After noticing Bell and Aizu who had concentrated in training since dawn, Freya
continued to observe them since then.
“Speaking of which……Things have just become interesting.”
While tucking the silver hair behind her ear, Freya’s mouth formed the shape of a
smile.
While her own dependent was secretly creating the stage in the Dungeon, the boy,
who was the main character, had decided to study from one of the strongest female
swordsman located in the city.
The Monster that was training by the Warrior (Ottar) and the boy that was trained
by the Sword Princess (Aizu).
Perhaps it had become something worth seeing beyond her own imagination, so
Freya had been jumping for joy.
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“……”
The silver eyes temporarily stared at Bell and Aizu silently.
Are they asleep, towards the motionless light, Freya revealed a smile while she
knocked her slender ring finger on the arm of the chair.
Following it, until she began to roll her finger with her silver hair, her actions
abruptly stopped.
Finally noticing her unconscious action, her lips twisted into something that
seemed to be like a wry smile, yet at the same time, a ridiculed smile.
“Ahah, am I jealous, me.”
Really now, Freya smiled.
Although Gods are noble, yet there were like a child. When it was her turn, a funny
feeling arise spontaneously. Compared to that time, it was much more intense.
Towards the golden light that was more dazzling than the transparent light, it was
slightly……just slight, she felt bored.
A slightly jealousy was suddenly blooming from inside her voluptuous chest.
“……An unbearable hunger and thirst.”
Freya murmured and she closed her eyes, allowing her weight to be entrusted to
the back, she took up a posture of staring above.
Just like this, time passed for a while.
The Goddess, who had her eyes closed, thinly opened her eyelids…….and smiled
bewitchingly.
“Right now, how strong did he become?”
Her body recovered her original position and she used a provoking gaze to stare at
the location where he was at.
She was interested, she had an mischievous mood, and more importantly, there was
a strong sense of hopeless jealousy.
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Let me stick my nose into it once more, Freya naturally complied with this sinister
idea.
The seamless glass that covered the entire wall of the huge room reflected a
sadistic, faint smile.
× × ×
Located inside the surrounding walls through the several long corridors and stairs,
the door that connected to the outside world.
The heavy wooden door was opposite of a slightly dark corner of an alley.
The pile of dirty wooden boxes and garbage made it seem like half an warehouse.
From the forgotten entrance of the walls, Aizu-san and I were currently looking
right and left at the same time we headed out.
After the afternoon nap, we, who began the training once again, temporarily left
the walls and headed towards the city.
“A…Aizu-san. As expected, let’s forget it. T…That is only something like an
incident……”
“No problem. I am also hungry.”
……The reason why it turned out like this was because due to the actions that
came from the harsh guidance slowed down significantly. At the same time, as if it
was connected, my stomach called out.
As if noticing such a proposal, Aizu-san, who did not react immediately towards
the flushed me, went to get something to eat. Following this, we came to this spot.
(Indeed, I did not eat anything aside from breakfast……Ahhhhh, why……)
While trying to endure the urge to cry out, I lowered my shoulders and followed
behind Aizu-san.
The shortcut that Aizu-san found——A road that leads to a certain door of the
normally sealed surrounding walls, was located at an area north-west direction of
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the city. Passing through an alley with numerous twists and turns, it led to a
spacious and clean backstreet. The atmosphere of the Main Street Area begins to
gradually become stronger.
On the street surrounded by homes, elegant pillars of Magic Stone Street Lamps
were lined up in an orderly manner. I curiously looked around at the unfamiliar
landscape.
“That…Where are we preparing to go now?”
“North Main Street Area. Tiona had once told me that there is a shop that sells
fried potato croquettes.”
Towards my question, Aizu-san replied. Tiona…Probably a colleague inside her
<Familia>.
At this time, being seen together by the crowd on the Main Street, would it lead to
unnecessary misunderstandings, this concern indeed exists. However, on top of
that, another concern was stuck inside my chest.
Fried Potato Croquettes……Anyways, there was a sense of a nasty premonition.
Feeling the cool breeze blowing from the back, we reached the North Main Street
Area.
The time was approaching Omagatoki (Dusk), the sky was dyed in a somewhat
fiery red color. At the crowded yet uncongested North Main Street Area, there
were many elves, dwarves and other demi-races. They all turned their gaze towards
us……No, it is at Aizu-san. It flash over one by one. I could only use every effort
to tighten my body.
Aizu-san seemed to be looking for something and turned her head left and right.
Did she notice her target, she entered an large street from a forked path.
Shortly after entering the forked path that was large enough to easily fit a carriage,
that open-air shop was shown in my vision.
——Instantly, I froze.
“Welco……me, EH?”
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Then the shop employee-san in the open-air shop ……Kami-sama also, the time
stopped.
The peaceful and easily approachable cute smile was interrupted halfway, a sense
of silliness was brought forth while she was stunned.
Inside the two eyes, it clearly reflected Aizu-san and my figure that was following
beside her.
My face turned pale at a terrifying speed.
“……”
“……”
“Creamy Red Beans Fried Potato Croquettes, please give us two.”
Besides me and Kami-sama, who were frozen stiff, Aizu-san calmly placed an
order.
Receiving the already friend potato croquettes from another shop employee-san,
Kami-sam slowly packed it up. With an absence-minded state, she said “80
Varisu” as she handed it over. Aizu-san said “Thank you” as she took it.
Soon, Kami-sama revealed a demon-like expression and quaveringly moved pass
the depths of the open-air shop and appeared in front of us.
The rate that I am sweating reached its climax.
“——WHAT ARE YOU
DOINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!?”
“SSSSSOOOOOOOORRY!?
In front of Kami-sama, who erupted, I seem to burst into tears and apology.
I did not tell Kami-sama about the training between me and Aizu-san.
Although there were also factors about the occasion, but it was mostly not a good
thing to have relationships with other <Familia>. Originally, Kami-sama holds a
terrible attitude towards Aizu-san’s Goddess, Loki, so I might as well say that she
may have a grudge to treat Aizu-san as an enemy……
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Because even if I explained to her that she did not mean any harm, she will not
believe it and absolutely oppose this belief. So I did not mention this matter to
Kami-sama.
“It’s bad for you to be with someone else, but why is it with the <Sword Princess>,
what on earth happened, Bell-kun!?”
“A…About that, there is a very deep reason behind……Huh!?”
“Spare me the excuses, quickly explain it to me! ……Tch, forget it, stay away,
quickly stay away for me!”
At the same time she raised her voice, Kami-sama inserted herself between us.
Towards Aizu-san’s slightly troubled expression, Kami-sama had hostile eyes and
glared fiercely to contain her.
“Then, why would you be together with the <Sword Princess>……!?”
“T…That, S..Suddenly met up nearby……!?”
“……You dare lie in front of a God!!”
Facing the commotion by Kami-sama, who raised both her hands up high,
“UGAAAAAAAA”, I could only, “HIIIIIIII” and cry.
Her pitch-black twintails wriggled, beshibeshi, and knocked on my head.
Towards the idiotic me, who originally planned on gloss over it, Kami-sama did
not say anything else and started to perform the punishment.
“About that……I am currently teaching him how to fight.”
Just like this, Aizu-san, who was watching us, slowly spoke.
Was she finally unable to ignore us, as if she was protecting me, she frankly told
the truth.
The instant Kami-sama, who had always but her in the corner of her sight, heard
this sentence, ha, and she trembled.
“Bell-kun, it can’t be that you’ve shown your <Status> to this child, right!?”
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“N…No, I haven’t let her see it, I can’t let her see?”
“If that’s the case, could it be, that growth speed was still noticed……!?”
I could not clearly hear the quiet self-whisper. Kami-sama immediately stared at
Aizu-san as if she was her father’s murderer.
Following this, she wrapped her hands around my body and tightly hugged from
the sound.
Eh, What!?”
“Even if you stare fiercely and drool with desire at Bell-kun, I won’t let you get
your way! After all, no matter what, I was still here earlier!”
“Kami-sama, what are you doing!?”
“Eh……UWAHHHHHHH!? B…Bell-kun, how could you be so bold!?”
Me!?
“Hestia-ch—an, you’re disturbing the shop’s business. If you are stealing a man,
then go somewhere else.”
“S…Sorry, Auntie! You two, come over here quickly!”
After being accused by the remaining beastman employee at the open-air shop,
Kami-sama suddenly reversed her wrist.
I do not know why but I felt that I was gradually being depleted, as I was pulled
forward by Kami-sama. Aizu-san quietly followed from behind.
Entering a more twisted and deserted narrow path compared to the forked path
earlier, we formed a small ring.
“……Fu. First let me clearly hear about the details of the situation.”
Looking at Kami-sama, who recovered her calmness, I felt a bit relieved. I mingled
an apology about the concealed and unreported facts and explained the cause and
effects of the situation.
As the topic advance, I did not forget to look at Aizu-san for confirmation.
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With her arms overlapping, Kami-sama closed her eyes. After listening to it, she
thoughtfully nodded.
“……Nnnn, I understand the situation. Then, the two of you, do not have any
involvement with each other from now on.”
“What!?”
“Can’t……?”
“Ahah. Wallen-whatever-kun. Do not continue to have a relationship with my Bellkun.
Even if its you, there must be a problem with your position as well. This is for
the best of both our <Familia> Mugugugugugu.
While I kneeled grandly inside my heart, I covered Kami-sama’s mouth.
Afterwards, I’ll compensate Kami-sama until she cools down. I made this promise
inside my mind.
“W…What are you doing, Bell-kun!?”
“Please Kami-sama, it’s quick, it’ll quickly be over, please allow the training
between me and Aizu-san!”
“……?”
I whispered and kindly implored Kami-sama, who tilted her head just like Aizu-san.
“You say it’s fast, anyways……!”
“There is only two days and it’s fine. There is only two days left until the promised
date!”
I told the truth about Aizu-san will also participate in the <Loki’s Familia>’s
<Expedition> that was organized three days later. No matter how many times, I
still bowed towards Kami-sama.
Until the very last moment, I still wanted to learn from this person. Just like this, I
conveyed the inner feelings I had out.
“I will absolutely not waste this period of time! In order to fight and earn more
money in the Dungeon! So……!”
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“Muuuu……!”
I temporarily and blindly continued to petition with all my strength. As if I was
grasping at straws in order to continue the agreement we made.
Kami-sama muttered and stared intently at me. Shortly after, she sighed.
“How hopelessly childish, I also……”
“Kami-sama……”
“……Really, only two days?”
Facing Kami-sama’s sentence, I nodded from the bottom of my heart.
Aside from feeling repentance about the useless trouble that I brought with my
own willful words, I felt gratitude above it.
After that, Kami-sama set a condition where the relationship between Aizu-san
absolutely cannot be revealed to <Loki’s Familia> and allowed the agreement of
training for the remaining two days.
“Let me first say these vulgar words to you. If you are to do anything strange to
Bell-kun, then from that instant, you will say you never did it, okay?”
“Okay.”
“Temptation and the like is even an unpardonable crime.
“What……?”
Towards Kami-sama, who repeatedly told strange things to Aizu-san, I hurriedly
stepped in to intervene.
“Then, let me go watch your training today.”
“Eh!?”
“What is there to be surprised about, Bell-kun. Confirming what my important
dependent (child) does, isn’t it the duty of the God (Parent)?”
“T…That, what about work……?”
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“It is already over today.”
Wait a moment, towards Kami-sama, who valiantly turned around and headed back
towards the open-air shop, I watched as sweat began to flow. Shortly after, my
entire face turned red.
My gaze intersected with Aizu-san. Are you alright, it inquired as she revealed a
gentle smile and nodded her head.
“She is really, a considerate Goddess……”
“……Yes.”
× × ×
As if to make up for the lost time, we were immersed in training after being
accompanied back with Kami-sama to the surrounding walls.
In order to not disgrace myself in front of Kami-sama, who came to specifically
observe, I tightened my nerves. After that, I no longer fainted——but in exchange,
my entire body was made completely ragged—— and constantly continued to train.
When we noticed, it was already quite late at night.
“I say, Bell-kun. You are only becoming more and more ragged after being beaten
up. It’s still better for you to not do this, that Wallen-whatever is probably using
you as a substitute for a good stamina sandbag.”
“K…Kami-sama……”
While walking down the stone stairs inside the wall, Kami-sama casually nitpick.
Inside the walls without any windows, it was extremely dark. I was walking in
front of Kami-sama while holding hands as I quietly cried without tears. Although
Kami-sama’s suddenly change her mood and become delighted, it was still
something that to be was to be gratifying.
Was she really enjoying me who was abused?
No, even though I had said I’ll try to withstand it, so I must hold it back……
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“Already… there……”
Aizu-san, who was holding a small Magic Lamp (It seems like it is a necessity for
Adventurers), was leading the way and she announced this towards me and Kamisama.
The sound of her boots, KotsuKotsu, echoed in all directions. Shortly after
completing going down the stairs, she opened the door that acted as the exit. Moist
air was instantly liberated and air that slightly tingled my skin surrounded my body.
The golden- colored moon and the countless stars were gorgeously shining and
were dotted in the pale dark night sky.
“T…That…Kami-sama? It is already outside, you can release your hand……”
“What are you talking about, Bell-kun. This is different than the Main Street Area,
it is very dark here. In order to not let me fall, I must hold your hand.”
Towards Kami-sama, who had a beaming smile and her soft fingers firmly
entwined with mine, the heat of my burning cheeks still did not fade.
Just like Kami-sama had said, we are currently located at the outer regions of the
city, it is a completely different location compared to the center or the Main Streets,
it was indeed dark. However, it should still be clear enough to see the feet if you
rely on the light from the moon and the stars……
We were moving forward in an quiet alley that was gradually becoming more wide.
Because I was embarrassed by the hand that had 10 fingers entwining together, I
slowly looked towards that person on the side.
If it was the usual expression of having no interest towards the other world, then it
will make me feel a bit sad……
(……Eh?)
Looking at her expression in close proximity, my thoughts froze for a moment.
On her beautiful and perfect face at the side, her eyebrows were in a slightly sharp
angle and were quietly strained.
1. Ba.
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Reflexively, I looked back and forth towards the perimeter.
It was a backstreet alley with a certain width. In the quiet location that was
surrounded by darkness, instead of saying it was completely silent, an unnatural
darkness enveloped there. There was not even the slightest light.
I, who noticed this creepy atmosphere slightly slow, suddenly noticed the elegant
pillar of a Magic Stone Street Lamp that left a certain impression.
(……It was… destroyed?)
The exquisite pillar that lifted the Magic Stone Lamp seemed to have been broken
after being beaten by a blunt object.
“——“
“!”
“WAHHH!?”
Aizu-san suddenly stopped.
Towards her, who seem to have noticed something, I also quickly stopped. Kamisama,
who I was holding hands with, staggered and nearly fell forward,
Within that pair of golden eyes, alertness was already shown. I tried to look
towards the direction where her gaze pierced through.
After a moment, between the gaps of the building, the shadow of someone walked
out.
(A catperson……?)
As if he was about to dissolve into the darkness, he was wearing dark armor, dark
tights and a dark mask.
The eyes and the upper portion of the face were covered by a metal mask. A
beastman cat ears grew from its head. He was a male.
That person, could it be that he was directly related with the abnormal situation?
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During the period where I was caught in a whirlpool of speculation, the beastman
Adventurer that was shorter than me did not stop.
Abruptly, the remaining distance of 20 meters.
Ton, the stone floor issued out a slight screech, and following, it disappeared.
“——“
The next instant, a shadow appeared in front of me.
Extremely close.
The distance that was instantly shortened. It was an <Agility> ability that could not
be underestimated.
Whether it was my eyes or my reactions, it failed to keep up.
The dark mask revealed a dull light, he wordlessly attacked with a spear that was
close at hand.
The time seemed to have already frozen. The words, death, flashed through my
brain.
“——!?”
“!?”
Suddenly, a rapier protruded from the side and deflected the enemy in front of me.
Using god-speed to pull out the thin silver sword, it captured the spear within a
hairbreadth and flashes of sparks exploded outwards.
I gained back my time. I, who suddenly released enormous amount of sweat,
finally was allowed to feel stunned in front of this series of offensive and defense.
At a slightly further position, Aizu-san, who pulled out her sword, wordlessly took
a step forward and faced the enemy.
Then, the two of them dashed towards each other and collided violently.
“H…Heyyyyyy!?”
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Kami-sama, who was panicking, issued a sound in a hurry, but the sound of the
fierce battle between the sword and spear completely engulfed it.
——Too fast!?
Whether it was the trail of the spear or even the number of slashes that could be
seen.
I could not catch up, I completely could not catch up, there was not even a single
move that I could see clearly!
Leaving me and Kami-sama on one side, the black shadow crossed countless times
with the golden flash.
“——“
At that time.
Above the catperson, who was fighting against that person, four small shadows
swayed in the dark sky.
The shadows that appeared on the roof of the homes silently dropped downwards.
A sword, a hammer, a spear and a axe.
The four weapons that were flashing with a dangerous light suddenly attacked
from above that person.
“Aizu-san!?”
At the same time I called out, that person’s action flashed.
First, she cut and caused the male catperson to retreat. Towards the total of four
people’s sneak attack coming from above, she once again unleashed numerous
slashes.
The deafening sound from the class the metal came over, I widened my eyes.
“HII……A monster.”
After obtaining a certain distance, the male catperson vented his dissatisfaction and
muttered.
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“……”
Aizu-san, who continued not to speak, used her swinging rapier to issue out a cry
instead.
Behind her, the corresponding, trembling reactions of the four shadows completely
exposed their figures.
The four people were Hobbits. They were wearing the exact same equipment as the
male catperson. By wearing the same mask, there was no doubt that they were his
accomplices.
Without leaving a gap and surrounding Aizu-san from the front and the back, they
did not leave any room for maneuver as they attacked her.
“B…Bell-kun, let’s go back. This is something we can’t intervene……”
Kami-sama, that can be used as a joke. But looking at it in a different perspective,
it could also aptly describe the current situation.
Even if I risk my life, those 5 men have physical abilities that I could not defeat.
Even if we label them as First-Class Adventurers, there should be no sense of
violation. Those men were currently swinging their different weapons with
extraordinary abilities.
Even if it was by herself, the golden haired girl who surpassed the group of attacks
from those First-Class Adventurers.
Without any meaning of avoiding it, her sword was surreal. A single sword
deflected numerous attacks and at the same time, became the incarnate which
counterattacked the enemies.
That is the <Sword Princess>.
Even though I could not personally confirm it, from the remaining afterimages of
her blade, I could feel unattainable heights.
The dimensions were too different.
(……I…Idiot!)
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Suffering from an untimely shock, I shook my shoulders and threw away the
random thoughts I had from my brain.
What did I plan to do with a dumbfounded face! Isn’t there something I must do
now!?
There is already no time to stand idle, I must help that person……!
“UUuu……!? B…Bell-kun!?”
“!?”
The moment I embraced the thoughts of just supporting and prepared to approach
Aizu-san, the trembling voice of Kami-sama bounded my shoulders.
Turning around, as if they planned to surround us, the four shadows revealed their
figure from the buildings.
Men and women, half and half. They were also equipped with the same type of
body armor.
Under my trembling eyes, I shook.
——What to do.
The instant I lost my judgment, they came rushing over.
“Tch!”
Engage. I could only engage.
Facing the group of four, I pulled out the <Dagger> and <Goddess’s Dagger> from
their sheath.
“Kami-sama, please stay behind me.
Without listening to her reply, I clashed with the enemies.
The first one to approach was a female Adventurer holding a Short Sword.
While emitting hostility from her mask, she swung her weapon to this side.
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——The actions, I can see it!
The instant before she released the attacks, I took a step forward and shortened the
distance between me and the opponent.
“What”
“Fu!”
A pre-emptive strike.
Aiming at the opponent’s chest, I swung the <Dagger>. It left a trail on the armor.
She suffered a slash and was block back towards the rear. I did not witness this till
the very end and reversed my body.
Using my left hand, I held Kami-sama, who was shocked due to my sudden turn.
We narrowly avoided the thrust from the long sword. I greeted the Male
Adventurer that unleashed the attack with my right foot.
Releasing another kick towards the Long Sword user, who lost his balance, I
completely kicked him away. Then I entered a fierce battle with a female
Adventurer, who violently rushed over.
(The enemy is…also same as me, a Lv.1 ——!)
I was convinced.
Compared to the men that was currently facing Aizu-san, they were not an
unattainable existence. Judging from the battle earlier, they were still in the same
territory as me.
It looks like there should not be much of a difference in ability (Status).
This time, I used the techniques and adaptability that was engraved by that person
in order to determine the outcome.
I hid Kami-sama behind me and maintained a posture as I waited for the slow male
Adventurer with heavy armor.
“HAAH!”
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Facing the scream accompanied with the downwards swing of the Large Sword, I
unleashed the <Goddess’s Dagger>.
The black dagger depicted a purplish-blue light and captured the side of the
enemy’s sword and struck it with momentum.
“HAH!?”
Did he not believe the Large Sword would be parried by the Dagger? The male
Adventurer’s roar was tainted with a bit of surprise. I took advantage of this and
rotated my body using the right foot as the axis. Towards the enemy’s face, I
fiercely a roundhouse kick that had already been a technique I was proud of.
“Ku….”
The Large Sword user flew to one side, his weapon also dropped from his hand.
“Bell-kun, they’re coming again!”
“!”
The instant Kami-sama’s warning echoed.
The three people from earlier flew over as they placed me and Kami-sama in the
center of a triangle.
Instantly, my breathing stopped, I leaped over to the Large Sword that the male
Adventurer dropped.
“Please get down, Kami-sama!”
Mustering all my strength, I swung the heavy sword. It was the exact same time as
Kami-sama lowered her head towards the ground.
“ “ “ GA——!?” ” ”
From the wide-ranged, roundabout slash, I blasted back the three Adventurers that
were rushing over in one attempt.
——I can do it!
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Due to the effects of the rotation, I staggered. At the same time, I felt joy that I was
able to use the Large Sword.
The thick and solid handle felt abnormally reliable. It left a distinctive feeling on
my palms.
“OHHHHH! Bell-kun, that was really cool!? I’ve fallen for you again!”
“P…Please calm down, Kami-sama!?”
In the midst of chaos, I did not know how to face Kami-sama, who was in disarray
and was being held by me. In a blink of an eye, I sighed and raised my face again.
The battle that belonged to the other dimension was still continuing. While the
numerous sparks continued to appeared, the swords were fiercely dancing.
It won’t be useful. Although I knew this better than anyone, but I still reflexively
extended my right armor.
At the same time as I supported Kami-sama in my left arms, I targeted the male
that was attacking.
“Aizu-san!”
She reacted to the cries and opened her eyes slightly. In an instant, she escaped
from that location.
I instilled all my mental power (Mind) into it and released <Magic>.
“ <Fire Bolt>!!”
6 Continuous Strikes.
The sudden outburst of the <Speed Cast Magic> exploded into 6 lightning flames
towards the men at the other side.
The backstreet was instantly shrouded by scarlet light.
The sounds of roars and the engulfing ashes descended quickly like an avalanche.
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The center of the backstreet was still a sea of flames, the male catperson and the
four Hobbit group bounced back from the tearing flames and leisurely walked
away.
“We were hit by Magic that required no chant……”
“We must report to that person. She must be glad.”
Due to the excessive use of <Fire Bolt>, my right arm and head were currently in a
state of paralysis. However, the men revealed a smile at the sound of flames and
chattered about something on the opposite side.
Although I already made a half-baked resolve, but I was still overwhelmed by the
many facts.
At the same time I took a shallow breath, I slightly narrowed my right eye.
I could see everything clearly, the gap between the strength of Higher- Class
Adventurers.
“It’s too conspicuous. It’s all because of this fire. People will come soon.”
“I know……It’s already enough, let’s retreat.”
The male catperson, who stared above his head, declared this and was the first to
escape.
The Hobbits recovered the Adventurers that I defeated and soon disappeared into
the depths of the darkness.
Inside the backstreet, the remains of my weak flame was currently burning.
“Bell-kun……”
“Ah, sorry, Kami-sama……”
After I apologized to Kami-sama, who I was still holding tightly, I released my
arm from her waist.
But Kami-sama did not leave and maintained a state where she was looking at me.
Then, she suddenly held out her hand towards my cheeks.
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“Are you alright?”
“……”
With slightly worried eyes, words with some concern was sent towards this side.
Mostly it was seen through. Within my heart, I embraced a complex of being
defeated. This was what I thought when I saw the eyes of this Goddess.
My cheeks could feel a refreshing warmth for her soft fingertips, I made an effort
to reply with a wry smile.
“Are you alright?”
“Ah, I’m fine. How about Aizu-san……?”
“I, too, am alright.”
Without any injuries, Aizu-san replied with an indifferent tone as usual.
Just now I was helped, no, I was always on the side of being helped. I bit my lips
tightly as I asked while pretending to be normal.
“That group of people, what are they trying to do. Why did they suddenly attack
us……”
The attackers all covered their face. From their equipment, we could not confirm
any logos of <Familia>.
First, they destroyed the Magic Stone Lamp that acted as a light source. For the
surroundings to not have any figures, it was probably the result of dismissing them.
Considering the point that they have decided on the location before engaging us, it
should have been planned.
There shouldn’t be a reason for them to carry out night attacks on us, right……
“Night attacks…Often happens.”
“Really!?”
“Nn, yes. Although it is relatively rare outside of the Dungeon……”
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In other words, it is common within the Dungeon? Towards these shocking words,
I became speechless.
It feels that the enemies that attacked us were very strong…….I do not know why I
suddenly had an feeling of not wanting to face against strong <Familia>.
Could it be that they knew Aizu-san left her <Familia> alone, so they came to
attack……
“But that makes no sense. If they were only aiming for Wallen-whatever-kun, then
it’s fine. But they also attacked us, no, Bell-kun?”
“That was ……”
“And they also specifically allocated power that met yours, did they not?”
……Indeed, I agreed with the doubts that was made by Kami-sama.
Temporarily ignoring Aizu and the male catperson, the Adventurers that I fought
against seemed to have their abilities deliberately matched mine. As if it was a
battle between the evenly matched in order to measure out something.
As a result, we still could not escape from speculation……
“What do you think about the enemies that came attacking over, what kind of goals
do they have, Wallen-whatever-kun?”
“……On the contrary, there are too many.”
“Really. She really likes to stir up trouble, Loki that fellow.”
“Sorry……”
“Nnnn……F…Forget it. Compared to that, we should quickly leave this place.
After all, people who heard the commotion may come.
While Kami-sama was talking one-sidedly to Aizu-san, they decided to leave this
place. Because we went overboard, people related to the guild may came here soon.
Before we were involved in trouble, we should get away from here. This was the
conclusion they decided.
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Kami-sama and Aizu-san were heading towards a narrower backstreet area, I also
prepared to chase up.
“——!?”
Suddenly, my body trembled.
My heart felt that it was fiercely grabbed upon and felt an intense gaze.
Like an illusion that flashed through my mind, only the lips showing a beautiful
and flirtatious smile appeared.
I unconsciously stared towards the sky, at the direction of where the catperson was
looking, and turned my head.
What was directly in front of my sight was Babel. The huge tower with white walls.
My heartbeat suddenly accelerated, while a sense of feeling surged through my
body as if I was being watched from the huge skyscraper facility.
“……”
Towards the Kami-sama, who frequently stated something to me, and Aizu-san,
who tilted her head to one side, I only stood in that place in a stiff manner.
There was some kind of dark omen, slowly, but surely approaching towards me.
The silver sand-like stars were currently shining light that was the origin of the
night.
Accompanied by an unknown chill, I fully recognized it.
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129
Chapter 3
Black Raid
“……”
I slowly opened my eyes.
I could see the blue sky.
While feeling the chill and the wind blowing past my skin, I stared at the sky that
stretched to the horizon.
At the same time, I gradually noticed that my entire body was in pain and I
attempted to recall the memories that cut off during the last 10 minutes……What
emerged in my mind was a single blow with terrifying speed from that person.
Once again, I could not do anything and lost consciousness……
Towards the shameful act that was exposed numerous times, I dropped my head
deep down inside my heart.
Carried out on the surrounding walls was the training with Aizu-san.
Under her severe fighting guidance, losing my consciousness seems to have
already become something common. Currently, it was probably because I was
easily knocked out so I was in the state where I was lying down on the surrounding
walls.
How long did I sleep this time, while I appreciate the gentle feelings below my
head, I continued to think blankly……Suddenly, I was caught off guard.
The golden eyes was staring directly at my face.
“Are you alright?”
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“……UWAHHH!?”
Towards Aizu-san’s face that appeared in the center of my vision, I leaked out a
strange sound and sat up.
As if I was trying to leave that place using the momentum of the roll, I stood up
and turned my head back. Aizu-san was currently sitting on her knees on the stone
floor.
……Looks like I was given a lap pillow again.
Was it because of the incident——The incident about fainting after releasing
continuous usage of Magic—— that happened in the Dungeon before, I do not
know why Aizu-san seems to give me a lap pillow during the period when I lose
my consciousness.
I was happy…happy to the extent that I could not suppress it……But if I continue
to think about it, I should just die. In a variety of meanings, I was extremely
ashamed.
While Aizu-san incredulously stared at me, who was bright red, she continued to,
patapata, and pat the top of her upper thighs.
I seemed to rattled horizontal and shook my head.
“Your body, is it alright?”
“……Yes.”
With a red face, I sat down closely next to Aizu-san (I was invited by her waving)
While my butt felt the cold stone, I placed my back onto the rock pile behind me.
The entire day today, I accepted Aizu-san’s guidance.
How it became like this, it was because I received this from Lili, “Today I must
help out the place where I spend the night so I will not be able to accompany you
to explore the dungeon”, this kind of contact.
Instead of heading down the Dungeon by myself, although it was somewhat
despicable, but I still attempted to expressed the feelings roaring in my chest and
91
discussed with Aizu-san, while having a hot face……Even though it was well pass
the early morning period, we were still training underneath the clear blue skies.
Only that right now, it was a temporary break.
“T…That…I…Did I make a bit of progress?”
“……Why?”
“No, about that, because I keep fainting recently……”
While the distance between the two of us was close enough to embrace each other,
I bit my teeth and threw out a topic.
Aizu-san wordlessly stared directly in front, where she could only see my face.
“You, have indeed been changing……To a shocking degree.”
“T…That…But……”
“Half of the reason……You fainted…was because my mistake of estimating my
strength.
“I…It can’t be like this!?”
Aizu-san slowly closed half her eyes. Although it was no different than her usual
expression, but I was about to understand it slightly that, at this time, she was still
depressed.
I hurriedly tried to encourage Aizu-san, who did not even notice that her shoulders
had dropped down. At the same time, I did not know why I felt that my body was
savoring an incredible feeling.
It was a flower that was normally unattainable.
Even though this fact should not have changed, but I was able to communicate
with this person closely. Placing the person, who was not the <Sword Princess>,
into my eyes.
Although I could not describe it properly with language……That’s right, it feels
that it is lacking a sense of reality.
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Only that she, who was originally beautiful and sublime, have slightly changed.
Just like a normal girl……Only at this time, I was able to feel it.
Looking at her figure, who became depressed for a meager thing, you would think
of that.
“……Can you listen?”
“Eh?”
Due to Aizu-san muttering this question, I, who was thinking seriously, had my
consciousness brought back.
Looking to the side, I do not know when Aizu-san had already concealed her
depression and seriously looked over here.
“Why can you become strong so quickly?”
“Become…Strong……?”
Towards the content that she asked, I rolled my eyes around.
Strong, this vocabulary, I do not know why this does not seem to match me.
Then I recalled the variously unsightly things I did up to date. Although I wanted
to dig a hole and bury myself inside, but seeing Aizu-san’s eyes firmly fixed onto
this side, I seriously thought for a while.
The reason I wanted to become stronger……No, the reason why I was still able to
become stronger……
“……That, there is a person that I wanted to chase up no matter what. I desperately
wanted to chase after that person and unconsciously reached this level, in
short……”
My thoughts were not properly integrated and so I was unable to express it with
my words.
Compared to saying these words in front of the person I wanted to chase after, I
could not stand the embarrassment.
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My thoughts were completely messed up, but I finally managed to say the next
sentence.
“……In short, it is because there is a place I want to achieve.”
Towards this answer, Aizu-san widened her eyes slightly.
After staring at me in silence for a while, she slowly raised her face and looked
above her head.
“So it’s like this……”
With a posture of hugging her knees, she concentrated at looking at the sky.
In front of my eyes and nose, the golden hair was currently being combed by the
wind.
“…….I understand.”
Towards the wind chimes-like whisper, I muttered “Eh?”.
“I also……”
The words after that were completely engulfed by the rapidly blowing winds.
Towards the powerful wind that blew from the side, I unconsciously closed my
eyes.
The cool breeze that blew from the west. As if it was like the sound of the whistle
that flew everywhere around the surrounding walls.
I timidly opened my eyes, there was no change in her posture. Aizu-san continued
to stare at the sky.
“T…That……”
“?”
“Ah, no……Nothing…Happened.”
Looking at Aizu-san, who tilted her head while lacking emotions on her face, I did
not continue to ask.
94
If I ask, what can I do. While I recalled that I have never seen her make such eyes,
I asked myself.
After that, nobody spoke. Just when my body felt slightly restless.
From the east side of the city, came the clock’s declaration of noon.
I listened to the pure sound that was like the church’s bell. Even if it was opposite
of the city, you could still listen to the sound of horse neighing from outside the
surrounding walls. Was it merchants that was about to enter the Labyrinth City,
they were probably being checked by the guild.
Where we were currently located at was a stone paved road at the top of the
surrounding walls. On both sides, there stands a slightly tall battlement. The scene
of the city could be glanced completely if you look into the inside of the city.
Looking outside will allow you to see the stretches of grassland, forests and
mountains.
Allowing the city’s clock chimes and the bustling noise outside of the city enter
my ears…The weather is great, is what I thought.
Due to the warm sunlight that projected due from the cloudless blue sky, I could
not help but narrow my eyes.
“Fuah……”
“……?”
I turned my head and looked to side, Aizu-san was currently using her hand to
cover her mouth.
The peach-like mouth was slightly opening……She was currently yawning.
While being bathed by the warm sunlight, she hugged her knees again as if nothing
had happened and recovered her original position.
Shortly after that happened.
“Afternoon nap training, you won’t do it?”
“Ha?”
95
Towards the proposal that did not match with training, I was stunned.
Looking in front, Aizu-san responded faintly.
“In the Dungeon, no matter what, you must be able to sleep.”
“……”
“Whether or not you could recover your strength is also very important.”
That is probably true.
Although I currently return on the day I enter the Dungeon, but as the floors
continued to fall, there may be a need to stay at the Dungeon for long periods of
time. At that time, I might be targeted by Monsters, there will also be no soft,
fluffy bed. To an Adventurer, it was completely bad if you could not let your body
rest well.
Aiz-san talked about the importance of sleeping, no matter what occasion, with a
serious expression.
But I, with a subtle expression, did not intersect with her eyesight and she asked.
“That……Could it be…very disturbed?”
“……”
Towards this accusation, Aizu-san, who was staring in front, slowly turned her
head towards my direction.
“It’s training.”
“O…Okay.”
Towards Aizu-san, who leaned her face over, I could only nod my head while
sweating.
Although I frowned slightly, and made a serious expression……However, my
cheeks were slightly dyed red.
M…My chest hurts……! Idiot, me……!
96
“T…That……Are we sleeping here?”
“Nnn, Yes.”
Aizu-san nodded towards my inquiry. She moved slightly forward from her
position leaning on the back, and just like that she fell asleep.
The path on the surrounding walls was extremely hard. It could not even be called
as beautifully made due to the numerous bumps of different heights.
In front of Aizu-san, who seemed to not care and lied down on the stone path, there
was a feeling of recognizing a First-Class Adventurer’s capabilities.
Towards them, who will have to rest in variety of places after entering the Deep
Floors, in such a sleeping place ——Precisely it was because they did not feel it
was uncomfortable——probably they were already accustomed to it.
“Not sleeping?”
“Ah, O…Okay……”
Being looked upon from below, it has become a strange thing. While I thought
about this, I moved closely towards her due to my urges.
Towards Aizu-san, who was sleeping defenselessly, although I had hesitated in that
moment——No, I will normally not do such a thing—— whether or not I should
do a strange thing, but after glancing at the bright shining saber, I let out a hollow
smile and thought again. I would probably be beheaded immediately if I do such
shameless acts.
Instead of saying that she lost her alertness, why not say that although it was
temporary, she was still taking care of me as a disciple, perhaps it was the sincerity
of her style that reflects it.
……Anyways, this is also training.
“E…Excuse me……”
97
98
I timidly lay down on the ground with my face facing the sky next to where Aizusan
was sleeping.
This should be obvious, there was no traces of wanting to sleep. The sound of my
heartbeat was too noisy.
I inadvertently turned to the side. With a sideways sleeping posture, Aizu-san’s
face appeared in my gaze, I hurriedly looked away.
With my eyebrows twitching, I awkwardly closed my eyes.
Maintaining a posture where I faced the sky, sleep quickly sleep quickly sleep
quickly, I muttered to myself.
“……?”
Shortly after, a faint breathing sound entered my ears.
I opened my eyes and quietly peeked, Aizu-san had her eyes closed. It seems that
she had already fallen asleep.
So…So fast……
She did talk about how recovering stamina was crucial, could she have been
accustomed about how to sleep?
Or perhaps was she really tired so she could immediately fall asleep……
“……B…Bell.”
……Eh?
“Go, Bell.”
……Ehhh?
Suddenly a nostalgic voice came from the depths of my mind.
It couldn’t have misheard it……It was the voice of my grandfather, who brought
me up instead of my parents. I do not know why it echoed directly inside my head
at this time.
99
Facing this increasingly powerful voice, I finally began to think that it was an
hallucination.
(……Huh, strange?)
Aizu-san, she became closer……?
Is it an illusion. I narrowed my half-opened eyes.
At first, we were separated by a distance of two people’s space. Why……
“It’s time to go, Bell.”
The next instant, it approached a distance where her face was extremely close by.
“!?”
Finally, I noticed the strangeness here.
Maintaining a posture where we faced each other, the distance between each other
had indeed shortened.
Could A…Aizu-san move over while she was confused in her sleep……N…No,
she did not even move her body a single centimeter!
C…Could it be……!?
“G—O—”
——Was it me that leaned over!?
Facing this emergency situation that was unlikely to occur, it feels that my heart
had stopped working. Nasty sweat was released over my entire body.
N…No, it can’t be mistaken. My body was moving over to Aizu-san step by step!
Why!? What’s the logic!? It can’t be that I wanted to some strange things!?
I’ll be cut!?
“Go take advantage of this sleep and attack—”
100
(Huhhhh!?)
It was even closer.
With her eyes closed, Aizu-san’s face was becoming bigger, even the details of her
innocent and cute sleeping face could be seen clearly.
Her smooth and delicate white skin, her slender neck……He small, pleasant pink
lips.
Facing this imminent, clear and intense scene, my face began to be dyed red in a
terrifying momentum.
(Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute!?)
There was no way but to cry out inside my heart.
As if my actions were faithful to my grandfather and was like a bomb that was
deeply ingrained, I unbiasedly crawled over to Aizu-san. Also, I revealed a
sensitive feeling that did not allow this person noticing me from approaching her.
What on earth happened!?
I…I…It can’t be….I …to this person……!?
“Kiss her—“
UWAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!?
“——Wait a minute, Bell-kun!”
Just at that moment.
As if was blaming my evil acts, Kami-sama’s (Hestia) voice came from my mind.
“Attacking a sleeping lady in her sleep, how could I allow this kind of behavior! I
do not remember raising you to become this kind of child!”
My heart and body suddenly began to shake.
It was the feeling as if I had taken control back of my body and heart that was
being controlled by something.
101
I…It’s exactly what Kami-sama had said……!
“Kissing with that girl is not allowed, absolutely not allowed! Absolutely NOT!!”
Facing Kami-sama’s unprecedented, desperate roar, I had sweat flowing while I try
to gain some distance from Aizu-san.
Only that my movements became abnormally slow, almost as if there were two
wills that were fighting against each other inside my body. Saying that it was a
reaction force was fine.
Kami-sama’s Oracle (Light) and Grandfather’s Bewitching words (Dark) were
currently violently colliding with each other.
“Quickly go away——“
“From now on, this is a holy battle—“
“——Ah, you bastard, what are you doing, WAHHH!?”
——Kami-sama lost!
The powerful vibration from defeating Kami-sama caused the scale to be tilted.
From what cannot be called a distance, it was suddenly shortened. I approached to
the location where Aizu-san’s nose and mine could touch.
“……!”
The beautiful sleeping face with closed eyes was currently directly within my sight.
My eyes could not focus. Facing the nose and eyes of the face from the person in
front of me, my consciousness and body began to burn and it was red and hot.
Despite the residual laughter sounds from grandfather that echoed within my ears, I
prepared to move my lips to overlap with that person.
“Wait……a minute.”
“!!”
My body instantly retrieved its freedom.
102
The muscles on my face twitched, I stumbled to the side and broke away from
Aizu-san’s side.
My heart seems to be engraving with a rhythm as if it will immediately fall apart.
Sweat did not stop.
The illusionary voice of regret from grandfather still was not completely
eliminated. I fearfully turned my head towards my back and looked at her.
“……”
Aizu-san did not wake up.
She still had closed eyes and ,suusuu, released faint breathing sound that could not
be heard with ears.
All the strength inside my body gradually disappeared.
(……Wait… for me a bit?)
The trembling sound, bakubaku, that entered my ears was still from my chest. I
recalled the movement of that person’s lips.
It isn’t… Wait a minute……But wait for me a bit.
It can’t be wrong, it feels that person’s lips had moved like this.
Although I considered thinking about the meaning of this phrase, but a strong gush
of self-loathing swallowed it. I began to hug my head and quietly groaned. What is
it, What did I want to do……!!
UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH……While I continued to moan
without making a sound next to her, I felt embarrassed about my own actions.
“……Ha.”
I was temporarily embraced by a sense of disgust that could not be eliminated.
I sighed. This time, in order to not repeat falling to the darkness, I separated
ourselves by a huge distance. Then I recovered the posture of staring at the sky.
103
In my heart, I repeated whispered an apology. During this period, my burning face
finally cooled down.
“……”
Although I did not hear that being so stubborn was futile, I maintained a certain
breathing rhythm.
I was troubled at the very end, just only once, I promised myself and I slowly
turned my cheeks so it touched the stone floor and stared at that person.
“……”
Just in front, it was really nearby. That person’s face was there.
The hidden breathing sounds faintly brushed through my ears. The overflowing
golden hair were scattered all over her cheeks.
It could not be helped but to make others forget that she was stronger than anyone
else. It was a sweet and innocent sleeping face.
Even if I were to leaned over a bit, the stretched out hands will be able to touch
that location……That person was currently quietly asleep.
What kind of hero’s legend is this.
Under a curse, a lonely princess-sama was sleeping for centuries.
Until her hero descends, she will not wake up. A princess that will be endlessly in
slumber.
I do not know why but I overlapped the illustrations of a myth that I was addicted
to in my childhood with the person that was quietly issuing out a stable breathing
sound.
“……”
I did not say a word and continued to look at that sleeping face, then I turned my
face back to its original posture.
Just like that, I stared at the sky. I raised my left hand and quietly pulled my cheeks.
104
It hurts.
(As expected, it was just like a dream……)
Being able to stay like this beside that person. Being able to share a time between
the two of us.
I lowered my hand that was pulling my cheek and I looked at the blue sky that
seems to suck everything up.
The feelings I had up till now had become transparent, as if I had vented out all the
physical and mental feelings.
In the center of the surrounding walls where the sun’s ray enveloped it, two people
were currently lying down together. I slowly closed my eyelids and immersed in a
short rest.
× × ×
The surrounding walls of Orario were tough as rock and also extremely enormous.
The walls that surrounded Orario were naturally circular. The path on top of it also
followed the shape of the walls, the uneven stone floor even extends for a week.
Normally, nobody should be able to approach the top part of the walls that were
forbidden from entry. The walls of Orario were built rather high not because it was
to resist against attacks from the outside, but for the defense of the Dungeon. Even
if you were to enter a high-rise building, you will never be able to see the top. It is
even more unquestionable from the ground.
Furthermore, the walls also had battlements. As long as one selected the location,
there was no need to worry about being noticed by others.
Carrying out training on top of the walls would allow nobody to peek and nobody
to observe.
Even if it was to revealed to both sides of their <Familia>, in order for Bell’s
training to be hidden from the public, there was no better preparation that could be
done compared to what Aizu had thought about.
“Mmmm, there is also a place that can clearly see it.”
105
Although it is only limited, but it was the vision from the tallest skyscraper facility
in the center.
Located at Babel’s upmost floor in her own room, she was sitting on an
extravagant chair. Freya had saw clearly Bell and Aizu sleeping on the walls.
The battlements that overlooked below suddenly lost its meaning, both Bell and
Aizu’s action were cleanly exposed to her.
“The Sword Princess’s brilliance is somewhat too bright……”
Center of Dungeon, The upmost floor of Babel, which is up to the 50th floor.
Although from there, being able to see Bell and Aizu, who were situated at the
outer edge of the city, it could be described as an absurd distance. However,
Freya’s <Eye> could clearly see the brilliance of the boy and the girl.
Although it was a small, but clear and transparent light, and a powerful and
dazzling golden light, which caused others to be blinded, both of it could not
escape from Freya’s <Eye> that could recognized the essence of the <Soul>.
After noticing Bell and Aizu who had concentrated in training since dawn, Freya
continued to observe them since then.
“Speaking of which……Things have just become interesting.”
While tucking the silver hair behind her ear, Freya’s mouth formed the shape of a
smile.
While her own dependent was secretly creating the stage in the Dungeon, the boy,
who was the main character, had decided to study from one of the strongest female
swordsman located in the city.
The Monster that was training by the Warrior (Ottar) and the boy that was trained
by the Sword Princess (Aizu).
Perhaps it had become something worth seeing beyond her own imagination, so
Freya had been jumping for joy.
106
“……”
The silver eyes temporarily stared at Bell and Aizu silently.
Are they asleep, towards the motionless light, Freya revealed a smile while she
knocked her slender ring finger on the arm of the chair.
Following it, until she began to roll her finger with her silver hair, her actions
abruptly stopped.
Finally noticing her unconscious action, her lips twisted into something that
seemed to be like a wry smile, yet at the same time, a ridiculed smile.
“Ahah, am I jealous, me.”
Really now, Freya smiled.
Although Gods are noble, yet there were like a child. When it was her turn, a funny
feeling arise spontaneously. Compared to that time, it was much more intense.
Towards the golden light that was more dazzling than the transparent light, it was
slightly……just slight, she felt bored.
A slightly jealousy was suddenly blooming from inside her voluptuous chest.
“……An unbearable hunger and thirst.”
Freya murmured and she closed her eyes, allowing her weight to be entrusted to
the back, she took up a posture of staring above.
Just like this, time passed for a while.
The Goddess, who had her eyes closed, thinly opened her eyelids…….and smiled
bewitchingly.
“Right now, how strong did he become?”
Her body recovered her original position and she used a provoking gaze to stare at
the location where he was at.
She was interested, she had an mischievous mood, and more importantly, there was
a strong sense of hopeless jealousy.
107
Let me stick my nose into it once more, Freya naturally complied with this sinister
idea.
The seamless glass that covered the entire wall of the huge room reflected a
sadistic, faint smile.
× × ×
Located inside the surrounding walls through the several long corridors and stairs,
the door that connected to the outside world.
The heavy wooden door was opposite of a slightly dark corner of an alley.
The pile of dirty wooden boxes and garbage made it seem like half an warehouse.
From the forgotten entrance of the walls, Aizu-san and I were currently looking
right and left at the same time we headed out.
After the afternoon nap, we, who began the training once again, temporarily left
the walls and headed towards the city.
“A…Aizu-san. As expected, let’s forget it. T…That is only something like an
incident……”
“No problem. I am also hungry.”
……The reason why it turned out like this was because due to the actions that
came from the harsh guidance slowed down significantly. At the same time, as if it
was connected, my stomach called out.
As if noticing such a proposal, Aizu-san, who did not react immediately towards
the flushed me, went to get something to eat. Following this, we came to this spot.
(Indeed, I did not eat anything aside from breakfast……Ahhhhh, why……)
While trying to endure the urge to cry out, I lowered my shoulders and followed
behind Aizu-san.
The shortcut that Aizu-san found——A road that leads to a certain door of the
normally sealed surrounding walls, was located at an area north-west direction of
108
the city. Passing through an alley with numerous twists and turns, it led to a
spacious and clean backstreet. The atmosphere of the Main Street Area begins to
gradually become stronger.
On the street surrounded by homes, elegant pillars of Magic Stone Street Lamps
were lined up in an orderly manner. I curiously looked around at the unfamiliar
landscape.
“That…Where are we preparing to go now?”
“North Main Street Area. Tiona had once told me that there is a shop that sells
fried potato croquettes.”
Towards my question, Aizu-san replied. Tiona…Probably a colleague inside her
<Familia>.
At this time, being seen together by the crowd on the Main Street, would it lead to
unnecessary misunderstandings, this concern indeed exists. However, on top of
that, another concern was stuck inside my chest.
Fried Potato Croquettes……Anyways, there was a sense of a nasty premonition.
Feeling the cool breeze blowing from the back, we reached the North Main Street
Area.
The time was approaching Omagatoki (Dusk), the sky was dyed in a somewhat
fiery red color. At the crowded yet uncongested North Main Street Area, there
were many elves, dwarves and other demi-races. They all turned their gaze towards
us……No, it is at Aizu-san. It flash over one by one. I could only use every effort
to tighten my body.
Aizu-san seemed to be looking for something and turned her head left and right.
Did she notice her target, she entered an large street from a forked path.
Shortly after entering the forked path that was large enough to easily fit a carriage,
that open-air shop was shown in my vision.
——Instantly, I froze.
“Welco……me, EH?”
109
Then the shop employee-san in the open-air shop ……Kami-sama also, the time
stopped.
The peaceful and easily approachable cute smile was interrupted halfway, a sense
of silliness was brought forth while she was stunned.
Inside the two eyes, it clearly reflected Aizu-san and my figure that was following
beside her.
My face turned pale at a terrifying speed.
“……”
“……”
“Creamy Red Beans Fried Potato Croquettes, please give us two.”
Besides me and Kami-sama, who were frozen stiff, Aizu-san calmly placed an
order.
Receiving the already friend potato croquettes from another shop employee-san,
Kami-sam slowly packed it up. With an absence-minded state, she said “80
Varisu” as she handed it over. Aizu-san said “Thank you” as she took it.
Soon, Kami-sama revealed a demon-like expression and quaveringly moved pass
the depths of the open-air shop and appeared in front of us.
The rate that I am sweating reached its climax.
“——WHAT ARE YOU
DOINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!?”
“SSSSSOOOOOOOORRY!?
In front of Kami-sama, who erupted, I seem to burst into tears and apology.
I did not tell Kami-sama about the training between me and Aizu-san.
Although there were also factors about the occasion, but it was mostly not a good
thing to have relationships with other <Familia>. Originally, Kami-sama holds a
terrible attitude towards Aizu-san’s Goddess, Loki, so I might as well say that she
may have a grudge to treat Aizu-san as an enemy……
110
Because even if I explained to her that she did not mean any harm, she will not
believe it and absolutely oppose this belief. So I did not mention this matter to
Kami-sama.
“It’s bad for you to be with someone else, but why is it with the <Sword Princess>,
what on earth happened, Bell-kun!?”
“A…About that, there is a very deep reason behind……Huh!?”
“Spare me the excuses, quickly explain it to me! ……Tch, forget it, stay away,
quickly stay away for me!”
At the same time she raised her voice, Kami-sama inserted herself between us.
Towards Aizu-san’s slightly troubled expression, Kami-sama had hostile eyes and
glared fiercely to contain her.
“Then, why would you be together with the <Sword Princess>……!?”
“T…That, S..Suddenly met up nearby……!?”
“……You dare lie in front of a God!!”
Facing the commotion by Kami-sama, who raised both her hands up high,
“UGAAAAAAAA”, I could only, “HIIIIIIII” and cry.
Her pitch-black twintails wriggled, beshibeshi, and knocked on my head.
Towards the idiotic me, who originally planned on gloss over it, Kami-sama did
not say anything else and started to perform the punishment.
“About that……I am currently teaching him how to fight.”
Just like this, Aizu-san, who was watching us, slowly spoke.
Was she finally unable to ignore us, as if she was protecting me, she frankly told
the truth.
The instant Kami-sama, who had always but her in the corner of her sight, heard
this sentence, ha, and she trembled.
“Bell-kun, it can’t be that you’ve shown your <Status> to this child, right!?”
111
“N…No, I haven’t let her see it, I can’t let her see?”
“If that’s the case, could it be, that growth speed was still noticed……!?”
I could not clearly hear the quiet self-whisper. Kami-sama immediately stared at
Aizu-san as if she was her father’s murderer.
Following this, she wrapped her hands around my body and tightly hugged from
the sound.
Eh, What!?”
“Even if you stare fiercely and drool with desire at Bell-kun, I won’t let you get
your way! After all, no matter what, I was still here earlier!”
“Kami-sama, what are you doing!?”
“Eh……UWAHHHHHHH!? B…Bell-kun, how could you be so bold!?”
Me!?
“Hestia-ch—an, you’re disturbing the shop’s business. If you are stealing a man,
then go somewhere else.”
“S…Sorry, Auntie! You two, come over here quickly!”
After being accused by the remaining beastman employee at the open-air shop,
Kami-sama suddenly reversed her wrist.
I do not know why but I felt that I was gradually being depleted, as I was pulled
forward by Kami-sama. Aizu-san quietly followed from behind.
Entering a more twisted and deserted narrow path compared to the forked path
earlier, we formed a small ring.
“……Fu. First let me clearly hear about the details of the situation.”
Looking at Kami-sama, who recovered her calmness, I felt a bit relieved. I mingled
an apology about the concealed and unreported facts and explained the cause and
effects of the situation.
As the topic advance, I did not forget to look at Aizu-san for confirmation.
112
With her arms overlapping, Kami-sama closed her eyes. After listening to it, she
thoughtfully nodded.
“……Nnnn, I understand the situation. Then, the two of you, do not have any
involvement with each other from now on.”
“What!?”
“Can’t……?”
“Ahah. Wallen-whatever-kun. Do not continue to have a relationship with my Bellkun.
Even if its you, there must be a problem with your position as well. This is for
the best of both our <Familia> Mugugugugugu.
While I kneeled grandly inside my heart, I covered Kami-sama’s mouth.
Afterwards, I’ll compensate Kami-sama until she cools down. I made this promise
inside my mind.
“W…What are you doing, Bell-kun!?”
“Please Kami-sama, it’s quick, it’ll quickly be over, please allow the training
between me and Aizu-san!”
“……?”
I whispered and kindly implored Kami-sama, who tilted her head just like Aizu-san.
“You say it’s fast, anyways……!”
“There is only two days and it’s fine. There is only two days left until the promised
date!”
I told the truth about Aizu-san will also participate in the <Loki’s Familia>’s
<Expedition> that was organized three days later. No matter how many times, I
still bowed towards Kami-sama.
Until the very last moment, I still wanted to learn from this person. Just like this, I
conveyed the inner feelings I had out.
“I will absolutely not waste this period of time! In order to fight and earn more
money in the Dungeon! So……!”
113
“Muuuu……!”
I temporarily and blindly continued to petition with all my strength. As if I was
grasping at straws in order to continue the agreement we made.
Kami-sama muttered and stared intently at me. Shortly after, she sighed.
“How hopelessly childish, I also……”
“Kami-sama……”
“……Really, only two days?”
Facing Kami-sama’s sentence, I nodded from the bottom of my heart.
Aside from feeling repentance about the useless trouble that I brought with my
own willful words, I felt gratitude above it.
After that, Kami-sama set a condition where the relationship between Aizu-san
absolutely cannot be revealed to <Loki’s Familia> and allowed the agreement of
training for the remaining two days.
“Let me first say these vulgar words to you. If you are to do anything strange to
Bell-kun, then from that instant, you will say you never did it, okay?”
“Okay.”
“Temptation and the like is even an unpardonable crime.
“What……?”
Towards Kami-sama, who repeatedly told strange things to Aizu-san, I hurriedly
stepped in to intervene.
“Then, let me go watch your training today.”
“Eh!?”
“What is there to be surprised about, Bell-kun. Confirming what my important
dependent (child) does, isn’t it the duty of the God (Parent)?”
“T…That, what about work……?”
114
“It is already over today.”
Wait a moment, towards Kami-sama, who valiantly turned around and headed back
towards the open-air shop, I watched as sweat began to flow. Shortly after, my
entire face turned red.
My gaze intersected with Aizu-san. Are you alright, it inquired as she revealed a
gentle smile and nodded her head.
“She is really, a considerate Goddess……”
“……Yes.”
× × ×
As if to make up for the lost time, we were immersed in training after being
accompanied back with Kami-sama to the surrounding walls.
In order to not disgrace myself in front of Kami-sama, who came to specifically
observe, I tightened my nerves. After that, I no longer fainted——but in exchange,
my entire body was made completely ragged—— and constantly continued to train.
When we noticed, it was already quite late at night.
“I say, Bell-kun. You are only becoming more and more ragged after being beaten
up. It’s still better for you to not do this, that Wallen-whatever is probably using
you as a substitute for a good stamina sandbag.”
“K…Kami-sama……”
While walking down the stone stairs inside the wall, Kami-sama casually nitpick.
Inside the walls without any windows, it was extremely dark. I was walking in
front of Kami-sama while holding hands as I quietly cried without tears. Although
Kami-sama’s suddenly change her mood and become delighted, it was still
something that to be was to be gratifying.
Was she really enjoying me who was abused?
No, even though I had said I’ll try to withstand it, so I must hold it back……
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“Already… there……”
Aizu-san, who was holding a small Magic Lamp (It seems like it is a necessity for
Adventurers), was leading the way and she announced this towards me and Kamisama.
The sound of her boots, KotsuKotsu, echoed in all directions. Shortly after
completing going down the stairs, she opened the door that acted as the exit. Moist
air was instantly liberated and air that slightly tingled my skin surrounded my body.
The golden- colored moon and the countless stars were gorgeously shining and
were dotted in the pale dark night sky.
“T…That…Kami-sama? It is already outside, you can release your hand……”
“What are you talking about, Bell-kun. This is different than the Main Street Area,
it is very dark here. In order to not let me fall, I must hold your hand.”
Towards Kami-sama, who had a beaming smile and her soft fingers firmly
entwined with mine, the heat of my burning cheeks still did not fade.
Just like Kami-sama had said, we are currently located at the outer regions of the
city, it is a completely different location compared to the center or the Main Streets,
it was indeed dark. However, it should still be clear enough to see the feet if you
rely on the light from the moon and the stars……
We were moving forward in an quiet alley that was gradually becoming more wide.
Because I was embarrassed by the hand that had 10 fingers entwining together, I
slowly looked towards that person on the side.
If it was the usual expression of having no interest towards the other world, then it
will make me feel a bit sad……
(……Eh?)
Looking at her expression in close proximity, my thoughts froze for a moment.
On her beautiful and perfect face at the side, her eyebrows were in a slightly sharp
angle and were quietly strained.
1. Ba.
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Reflexively, I looked back and forth towards the perimeter.
It was a backstreet alley with a certain width. In the quiet location that was
surrounded by darkness, instead of saying it was completely silent, an unnatural
darkness enveloped there. There was not even the slightest light.
I, who noticed this creepy atmosphere slightly slow, suddenly noticed the elegant
pillar of a Magic Stone Street Lamp that left a certain impression.
(……It was… destroyed?)
The exquisite pillar that lifted the Magic Stone Lamp seemed to have been broken
after being beaten by a blunt object.
“——“
“!”
“WAHHH!?”
Aizu-san suddenly stopped.
Towards her, who seem to have noticed something, I also quickly stopped. Kamisama,
who I was holding hands with, staggered and nearly fell forward,
Within that pair of golden eyes, alertness was already shown. I tried to look
towards the direction where her gaze pierced through.
After a moment, between the gaps of the building, the shadow of someone walked
out.
(A catperson……?)
As if he was about to dissolve into the darkness, he was wearing dark armor, dark
tights and a dark mask.
The eyes and the upper portion of the face were covered by a metal mask. A
beastman cat ears grew from its head. He was a male.
That person, could it be that he was directly related with the abnormal situation?
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During the period where I was caught in a whirlpool of speculation, the beastman
Adventurer that was shorter than me did not stop.
Abruptly, the remaining distance of 20 meters.
Ton, the stone floor issued out a slight screech, and following, it disappeared.
“——“
The next instant, a shadow appeared in front of me.
Extremely close.
The distance that was instantly shortened. It was an <Agility> ability that could not
be underestimated.
Whether it was my eyes or my reactions, it failed to keep up.
The dark mask revealed a dull light, he wordlessly attacked with a spear that was
close at hand.
The time seemed to have already frozen. The words, death, flashed through my
brain.
“——!?”
“!?”
Suddenly, a rapier protruded from the side and deflected the enemy in front of me.
Using god-speed to pull out the thin silver sword, it captured the spear within a
hairbreadth and flashes of sparks exploded outwards.
I gained back my time. I, who suddenly released enormous amount of sweat,
finally was allowed to feel stunned in front of this series of offensive and defense.
At a slightly further position, Aizu-san, who pulled out her sword, wordlessly took
a step forward and faced the enemy.
Then, the two of them dashed towards each other and collided violently.
“H…Heyyyyyy!?”
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Kami-sama, who was panicking, issued a sound in a hurry, but the sound of the
fierce battle between the sword and spear completely engulfed it.
——Too fast!?
Whether it was the trail of the spear or even the number of slashes that could be
seen.
I could not catch up, I completely could not catch up, there was not even a single
move that I could see clearly!
Leaving me and Kami-sama on one side, the black shadow crossed countless times
with the golden flash.
“——“
At that time.
Above the catperson, who was fighting against that person, four small shadows
swayed in the dark sky.
The shadows that appeared on the roof of the homes silently dropped downwards.
A sword, a hammer, a spear and a axe.
The four weapons that were flashing with a dangerous light suddenly attacked
from above that person.
“Aizu-san!?”
At the same time I called out, that person’s action flashed.
First, she cut and caused the male catperson to retreat. Towards the total of four
people’s sneak attack coming from above, she once again unleashed numerous
slashes.
The deafening sound from the class the metal came over, I widened my eyes.
“HII……A monster.”
After obtaining a certain distance, the male catperson vented his dissatisfaction and
muttered.
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“……”
Aizu-san, who continued not to speak, used her swinging rapier to issue out a cry
instead.
Behind her, the corresponding, trembling reactions of the four shadows completely
exposed their figures.
The four people were Hobbits. They were wearing the exact same equipment as the
male catperson. By wearing the same mask, there was no doubt that they were his
accomplices.
Without leaving a gap and surrounding Aizu-san from the front and the back, they
did not leave any room for maneuver as they attacked her.
“B…Bell-kun, let’s go back. This is something we can’t intervene……”
Kami-sama, that can be used as a joke. But looking at it in a different perspective,
it could also aptly describe the current situation.
Even if I risk my life, those 5 men have physical abilities that I could not defeat.
Even if we label them as First-Class Adventurers, there should be no sense of
violation. Those men were currently swinging their different weapons with
extraordinary abilities.
Even if it was by herself, the golden haired girl who surpassed the group of attacks
from those First-Class Adventurers.
Without any meaning of avoiding it, her sword was surreal. A single sword
deflected numerous attacks and at the same time, became the incarnate which
counterattacked the enemies.
That is the <Sword Princess>.
Even though I could not personally confirm it, from the remaining afterimages of
her blade, I could feel unattainable heights.
The dimensions were too different.
(……I…Idiot!)
120
Suffering from an untimely shock, I shook my shoulders and threw away the
random thoughts I had from my brain.
What did I plan to do with a dumbfounded face! Isn’t there something I must do
now!?
There is already no time to stand idle, I must help that person……!
“UUuu……!? B…Bell-kun!?”
“!?”
The moment I embraced the thoughts of just supporting and prepared to approach
Aizu-san, the trembling voice of Kami-sama bounded my shoulders.
Turning around, as if they planned to surround us, the four shadows revealed their
figure from the buildings.
Men and women, half and half. They were also equipped with the same type of
body armor.
Under my trembling eyes, I shook.
——What to do.
The instant I lost my judgment, they came rushing over.
“Tch!”
Engage. I could only engage.
Facing the group of four, I pulled out the <Dagger> and <Goddess’s Dagger> from
their sheath.
“Kami-sama, please stay behind me.
Without listening to her reply, I clashed with the enemies.
The first one to approach was a female Adventurer holding a Short Sword.
While emitting hostility from her mask, she swung her weapon to this side.
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——The actions, I can see it!
The instant before she released the attacks, I took a step forward and shortened the
distance between me and the opponent.
“What”
“Fu!”
A pre-emptive strike.
Aiming at the opponent’s chest, I swung the <Dagger>. It left a trail on the armor.
She suffered a slash and was block back towards the rear. I did not witness this till
the very end and reversed my body.
Using my left hand, I held Kami-sama, who was shocked due to my sudden turn.
We narrowly avoided the thrust from the long sword. I greeted the Male
Adventurer that unleashed the attack with my right foot.
Releasing another kick towards the Long Sword user, who lost his balance, I
completely kicked him away. Then I entered a fierce battle with a female
Adventurer, who violently rushed over.
(The enemy is…also same as me, a Lv.1 ——!)
I was convinced.
Compared to the men that was currently facing Aizu-san, they were not an
unattainable existence. Judging from the battle earlier, they were still in the same
territory as me.
It looks like there should not be much of a difference in ability (Status).
This time, I used the techniques and adaptability that was engraved by that person
in order to determine the outcome.
I hid Kami-sama behind me and maintained a posture as I waited for the slow male
Adventurer with heavy armor.
“HAAH!”
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Facing the scream accompanied with the downwards swing of the Large Sword, I
unleashed the <Goddess’s Dagger>.
The black dagger depicted a purplish-blue light and captured the side of the
enemy’s sword and struck it with momentum.
“HAH!?”
Did he not believe the Large Sword would be parried by the Dagger? The male
Adventurer’s roar was tainted with a bit of surprise. I took advantage of this and
rotated my body using the right foot as the axis. Towards the enemy’s face, I
fiercely a roundhouse kick that had already been a technique I was proud of.
“Ku….”
The Large Sword user flew to one side, his weapon also dropped from his hand.
“Bell-kun, they’re coming again!”
“!”
The instant Kami-sama’s warning echoed.
The three people from earlier flew over as they placed me and Kami-sama in the
center of a triangle.
Instantly, my breathing stopped, I leaped over to the Large Sword that the male
Adventurer dropped.
“Please get down, Kami-sama!”
Mustering all my strength, I swung the heavy sword. It was the exact same time as
Kami-sama lowered her head towards the ground.
“ “ “ GA——!?” ” ”
From the wide-ranged, roundabout slash, I blasted back the three Adventurers that
were rushing over in one attempt.
——I can do it!
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Due to the effects of the rotation, I staggered. At the same time, I felt joy that I was
able to use the Large Sword.
The thick and solid handle felt abnormally reliable. It left a distinctive feeling on
my palms.
“OHHHHH! Bell-kun, that was really cool!? I’ve fallen for you again!”
“P…Please calm down, Kami-sama!?”
In the midst of chaos, I did not know how to face Kami-sama, who was in disarray
and was being held by me. In a blink of an eye, I sighed and raised my face again.
The battle that belonged to the other dimension was still continuing. While the
numerous sparks continued to appeared, the swords were fiercely dancing.
It won’t be useful. Although I knew this better than anyone, but I still reflexively
extended my right armor.
At the same time as I supported Kami-sama in my left arms, I targeted the male
that was attacking.
“Aizu-san!”
She reacted to the cries and opened her eyes slightly. In an instant, she escaped
from that location.
I instilled all my mental power (Mind) into it and released <Magic>.
“ <Fire Bolt>!!”
6 Continuous Strikes.
The sudden outburst of the <Speed Cast Magic> exploded into 6 lightning flames
towards the men at the other side.
The backstreet was instantly shrouded by scarlet light.
The sounds of roars and the engulfing ashes descended quickly like an avalanche.
124
The center of the backstreet was still a sea of flames, the male catperson and the
four Hobbit group bounced back from the tearing flames and leisurely walked
away.
“We were hit by Magic that required no chant……”
“We must report to that person. She must be glad.”
Due to the excessive use of <Fire Bolt>, my right arm and head were currently in a
state of paralysis. However, the men revealed a smile at the sound of flames and
chattered about something on the opposite side.
Although I already made a half-baked resolve, but I was still overwhelmed by the
many facts.
At the same time I took a shallow breath, I slightly narrowed my right eye.
I could see everything clearly, the gap between the strength of Higher- Class
Adventurers.
“It’s too conspicuous. It’s all because of this fire. People will come soon.”
“I know……It’s already enough, let’s retreat.”
The male catperson, who stared above his head, declared this and was the first to
escape.
The Hobbits recovered the Adventurers that I defeated and soon disappeared into
the depths of the darkness.
Inside the backstreet, the remains of my weak flame was currently burning.
“Bell-kun……”
“Ah, sorry, Kami-sama……”
After I apologized to Kami-sama, who I was still holding tightly, I released my
arm from her waist.
But Kami-sama did not leave and maintained a state where she was looking at me.
Then, she suddenly held out her hand towards my cheeks.
125
“Are you alright?”
“……”
With slightly worried eyes, words with some concern was sent towards this side.
Mostly it was seen through. Within my heart, I embraced a complex of being
defeated. This was what I thought when I saw the eyes of this Goddess.
My cheeks could feel a refreshing warmth for her soft fingertips, I made an effort
to reply with a wry smile.
“Are you alright?”
“Ah, I’m fine. How about Aizu-san……?”
“I, too, am alright.”
Without any injuries, Aizu-san replied with an indifferent tone as usual.
Just now I was helped, no, I was always on the side of being helped. I bit my lips
tightly as I asked while pretending to be normal.
“That group of people, what are they trying to do. Why did they suddenly attack
us……”
The attackers all covered their face. From their equipment, we could not confirm
any logos of <Familia>.
First, they destroyed the Magic Stone Lamp that acted as a light source. For the
surroundings to not have any figures, it was probably the result of dismissing them.
Considering the point that they have decided on the location before engaging us, it
should have been planned.
There shouldn’t be a reason for them to carry out night attacks on us, right……
“Night attacks…Often happens.”
“Really!?”
“Nn, yes. Although it is relatively rare outside of the Dungeon……”
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In other words, it is common within the Dungeon? Towards these shocking words,
I became speechless.
It feels that the enemies that attacked us were very strong…….I do not know why I
suddenly had an feeling of not wanting to face against strong <Familia>.
Could it be that they knew Aizu-san left her <Familia> alone, so they came to
attack……
“But that makes no sense. If they were only aiming for Wallen-whatever-kun, then
it’s fine. But they also attacked us, no, Bell-kun?”
“That was ……”
“And they also specifically allocated power that met yours, did they not?”
……Indeed, I agreed with the doubts that was made by Kami-sama.
Temporarily ignoring Aizu and the male catperson, the Adventurers that I fought
against seemed to have their abilities deliberately matched mine. As if it was a
battle between the evenly matched in order to measure out something.
As a result, we still could not escape from speculation……
“What do you think about the enemies that came attacking over, what kind of goals
do they have, Wallen-whatever-kun?”
“……On the contrary, there are too many.”
“Really. She really likes to stir up trouble, Loki that fellow.”
“Sorry……”
“Nnnn……F…Forget it. Compared to that, we should quickly leave this place.
After all, people who heard the commotion may come.
While Kami-sama was talking one-sidedly to Aizu-san, they decided to leave this
place. Because we went overboard, people related to the guild may came here soon.
Before we were involved in trouble, we should get away from here. This was the
conclusion they decided.
127
Kami-sama and Aizu-san were heading towards a narrower backstreet area, I also
prepared to chase up.
“——!?”
Suddenly, my body trembled.
My heart felt that it was fiercely grabbed upon and felt an intense gaze.
Like an illusion that flashed through my mind, only the lips showing a beautiful
and flirtatious smile appeared.
I unconsciously stared towards the sky, at the direction of where the catperson was
looking, and turned my head.
What was directly in front of my sight was Babel. The huge tower with white walls.
My heartbeat suddenly accelerated, while a sense of feeling surged through my
body as if I was being watched from the huge skyscraper facility.
“……”
Towards the Kami-sama, who frequently stated something to me, and Aizu-san,
who tilted her head to one side, I only stood in that place in a stiff manner.
There was some kind of dark omen, slowly, but surely approaching towards me.
The silver sand-like stars were currently shining light that was the origin of the
night.
Accompanied by an unknown chill, I fully recognized it.
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