Volume 3 Chapter 25
Plains of Vitality V [Veloce Boss Battle]
{General POV}
“I’ve come to ask about Braument’s death. Shuten seems to have obtained his goal, which may be for the best.” (Veloce)
That voice, that appearance, that presence. It was the return of a monster.
A small shadow stood alone among the wilderness at dusk. Crane felt terrified even though she was shorter than Haruna.
Crane couldn’t say whether he had simply forgotten about her or blocked her out of his mind, but that doesn’t change the fact that she was here in front of them.
If he were to verbalize this situation, it was nothing other than the “worst” outcome.
Crane Fafnir is the Kamiko of Light. That was why he had an obligation to confront any entity like this, even if they were the incarnation of darkness. However, in addition to being riddled with sword wounds and his vision already swimming with exhaustion, the difference in ability between him and this girl was obvious.
A silhouette stepped in between Crane and the girl. Rather, it was a young man who stood between them as if in protection. Messy black hair and a large back obscured his view. His intentions were undeniably obvious. That is the only reason Crane was able to take a break to catch his breath.
“…Hey, Veloce, how are you? I managed to achieve my goal, but I apologize if I’ve disturbed you.” (Shuten)
The Oni, Shuten.
Crane knew he was south of Eden. He also thought it was possible Shuten would notice the commotion from the war. But to think he would appear just after he had let his guard down, after being filled with the satisfaction of defeating Braument with his own hands.
Crane was proud of what he was able to accomplish. After last time where he could only be protected, he had studied and focused his training. Now, he had been able to become stronger and fulfill his revenge. Although he hadn’t been able to say much, Crane was glad that he could show his efforts to Shuten.
With those kind of feelings, he had thrown out a question. However, before he could get an answer to his question, a calamity had appeared.
Veloce Vie Atmosphere.
The Demon King’s “Imperator.”
Shuten spoke lightly, but Crane could tell that he was tense.
“Oh, that’s fine. In any case I knew this invasion would fail when ‘Wheel’ didn’t come. It’ll be nice to have one less annoying member in the Four Demon Lords. They were a lot of work. –It’s just like how I will be erasing the Kamiko of Light.” (Veloce)
“Wait, wait, Veloce. What are you saying?” (Shuten)
“It’s a rejection~. If you don’t let me do this, then how am I supposed to stay as the Demon King’s “Imperator?” If I can’t take care of him now, the others will annoy me to death~.”
Why does she want to kill the Kamiko of light? There are a number of reasons that come to mind, but even with these reasons, isn’t he still too weak to catch her notice?
If it’s because they know that he’s trying to subdue the Demon Lord, the difference in their power is clear.
If she is acting now because he had defeated Braument just now, then Crane would still be too weak for her to act directly.
If it is because he has collected two of the keys to the Underground Empire, then wouldn’t she have called him the key-bearer or something rather than the Kamiko?
He did not understand. [1]
Even though all demons should want to kill him, then why…is Shuten protecting him? Perhaps, he knows something? Within the exchange between Shuten and Veloce, there seemed to be some underlying tone that made Crane think that way.
And so.
“Will you be my opponent? …Kijin of the Oni tribe.” (Veloce)
“…Haha.” (Shuten)
Crane didn’t understand exactly why the Oni would fight against the Imperator with cheat-like strength. Comparing the power of that girl, the kamiko realized how insane it was to even think of defeating the Demon King. Just what was he basing his confidence on?
Shuten’s right hand reached for the large ax on his back.
This man was going to fight.
Even on the wagonless highway, he had hesitated to oppose the Imperator. But now he was trying to fight her. To save Crane and Rudius, rather than himself
What makes him go so far? Why does he protect me? Crane thought.
Those golden eyes glanced over at Crane and Rudius. Reflected in those eyes was their exhausted forms lying on the ground. Shuten’s gentle smile made his eyes narrow playfully.
“You guys look worn out.” (Shuten)
“…Shuten, you?” (Crane)
“What are you going to do…Shuten…” (Rudius)
“Yeah, if you stay here then you’ll just get beaten, so I’ll take care of it. So do your best to flee from here?” Shuten abruptly said.
His mouth wouldn’t open while he was in this situation where he was suppressed by aura. Still, he had just enough strength to try and ask what he needed to know. No, if he does as Shuten says now, then he doesn’t know if he’ll get another opportunity to ask. Who knows when he would get the chance?
That’s why he did all he could to squeeze out the words in his throat.
“……Wh-What….!?!”
“No worries, no worries. There’s nothing to be concerned about. I won’t die. Because that person and I are on good terms…Yeah, I think, probably. But you guys would die. That’s why I’ll take the beating. Kay?”
“Shuten…!!”
Wait please. You can’t do that. Crane wasn’t able to even mouth the words.
Even though he was tired and can hardly breathe, the magical power of the darkness sprouting from the girl devoured his energy further, and her aura completely crushed the Child of the God of Light so he was no longer able to speak. He was unable to resist her aura.
“Lend me some time, Miss Veloce.” (Shuten)
“…You will fight me~? Unlike before, you decided quickly.” (Veloce)
Shuten pulled out his big axe.
At the same time, a more powerful energy erupted from before Velocé.
“Well yeah, you helped me make a fast decision. I’ve matured.” (Shuten)
“…Do you really think our strength is comparable?” (Veloce)
They were ready to battle.
Crane was still stuck. However, he saw some movement next to him. Rudius.
What is he doing? Just looking over at him, Crane understood once they made eye-contact. He wanted to help. Even if his assistance would only be on the level of a grain of rice, he would do what he could to make that smallest opportunity.
But.
The next moment, the atmosphere of Shuten in front of them changed.
“Aah, that’s right. If I have to eat something unpleasant. Then I think it is better to eat it all at once, rather than enduring through multiple portions.” Shuten said so quickly, moving the big ax to his left hand.
“Huh?” Veloce realized something was about to happen.
Crane and Rudius’s hair blew back from the wind pressure made as the axe was vigorously swung. Dust suddenly flew up and fluttered in the air. Then.
“Well, do your best to run away.” Shuten spoke towards those behind him.
Regardless of the reason, it seemed that Crane’s assistance was not necessary, and even the man’s Intimidation Aura was difficult to approach, as if urging them away.
Crane understood he would die if he didn’t run away.
However, he couldn’t leave a man who might be a friend. Also, Crane owed Shuten for all of his help. A young man who seemed only a little older than himself.
He had a flashback to the encounter in Tunto. On the wagonless highway. And talking in Merrick.
The Shuten before him, almost seemed as if he was about to take a bullet for Crane. So he has to stop him. Nevertheless.
Shuten turned around halfway to them in order to say one last thing. He grinned and laughed, saying, “If I escape from Veloce and come back…I’ll see you again.”
“Wha…!!” (Crane)
Before Crane could say anything more, Shuten slammed his right hand against his chest – the opposite of the hand that held the big axe.
“Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooh!” Shuten roared.
It was a terrible noise that rang out across the entire Plains of Vitality. Veloce before them was also surprised. The prior overwhelming feeling of dark magic coming from Veloce had been devoured by Shuten.
He crouched as if he was holding down an amplified explosion within, and you could see his blood vessels strain under the pressure.
“Aaaaaaahhh!”
“…Amplification of Intimidation Aura? No, it’s an increase in soul…In any case, what a terrifying feeling…what, is this…” Veloce groaned.
The next moment.
Shuten’s aura boiled and turned red. As it clung to him, his Intimidation Aura condensed like mist and increased in power by threefold, while continuing to increase.
“Oooaaaaaahhh!!”
Even the energy in the noise he made was much greater than Crane had seen before. Shuten screamed consistently, as if to help him withstand something and reinforce himself.
That lasted for a while, later.
“Fuyuu…” (Shuten)
The storm that was blowing around Shuten stopped. As if the storm has passed away, and the air quieted down eerily. However, there was no one there who did not feel the burning spirit that dwelled within the demon.
Is this what Shuten is like when he fights seriously? Shock filled Crane’s eyes as he stared at him.
“…That’s the red aura, isn’t it?!? But what a ridiculous thing.” (Veloce)
“…” (Shuten)
“Well~, fine…I’ll fight. With all the power of the 3rd strongest of the Demon King’s Army….For the first time since I was called over, I’ll have to go all out…Had I known, I wouldn’t have wasted my magic power to destroy the gate…” (Veloce)
This was the presence of a true Demon.
Wrapped in a red aura,his eyes glowed like shining gold. Wielding such an enormous weapon lazily, it is obvious his strength is unusual.
To Veloce, this figure confronting her looks like a king[2].
The girl’s casual expression disappeared from her face.
“…Just a bit, this amount of energy may be life-threatening.” (Veloce)
She closed the frilled parasol.
As if she had given in somehow, Veloce’s amethyst eyes were focused only on Shuten. Is she preparing to go all out? Either way, Crane was no longer in her eyes.
No, there is no chance for him to enter. The existence of Shuten doesn’t show any gaps that would allow that to happen.
“Huu…” The corner of her mouth raised only slightly, and softly sighed.
The magical power of darkness that had spread to the surroundings began to drift more densely after being further compressed by her.
Both are showing off your intent to fight with all they have.
“I’m going to be serious. I’m ready… are you ready?” (Veloce)
Crane’s spine shivered at the look in her eyes, even though they were not directed at him.
Despite Shuten’s brutish strength, there was no chance of getting to her. At least it seemed so to Crane.
However.
Crane didn’t miss the cold sweat on Veloce’s cheek.
Veloce is ready to rumble! ▼
The next moment.
Shuten disappeared.
The earth collapsed.
By the time Crane noticed, Shuten was no longer in front of him.
Instead there was a crater. As if from a turbo burst, Shuten neared Velocé in an instant.
“Aaaaaaahh!”
“Oh, we’re starting already~…” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Puppet Division]
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Woah~” (Veloce)
With a *Bang!!* the earth was immediately torn asunder.
However, Veloce’s body, which he thought he had hit, faded away. Instead, countless silhouettes floated in the air.
All of them are Veloce Vie Atmosphere.
“I’d be impressed if you had hit me.” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Chaotic Moon Xablefar]
A large amount of black waves was released from the Veloces, becoming hundreds in the air, then shooting towards Shuten on the ground. Crane understood that with this amount of energy, it would be enough to destroy the gate all over again.
But.
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Oh~, is he serious?”
Shuten leapt at one individual of the many shooting the black magic.
He swung his large axe horizontally, tearing apart all the chaotic moon attacks before him.
“How did you know I was the main body!?” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“You aren’t listening” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Mirrored Fortress]
Hundreds of the Veloces disappeared. At the same time, all the black torrents that they had released disappeared. Apparently it was an illusion with the intimidation aura being real.
A transparent cube formed around Shuten, stopping him before he reached Veloce. The moment he was enclosed, Shuten stopped moving as if it were frozen. From the air, Veloce slowly descended to the ground, looking at the motionless Shuten.
“I used it previously when Gurefeil of ‘Power’ rampaged before, but it kept that man frozen for an hour.” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!!”
“That’s five seconds. Yeah, I knew it.”
Shuten, with his black hair and red aura, fell down to the ground with the sound of glass breaking. The ax he swung down at that time produced the same level of pressure as when the [Chaotic Moon] hit the castle gate.
However, the crater he left behind no longer held the figure of Veloce.
Veloce landed heavily to the side, and stumbled.
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
A fissure began to open, casting dirt away from Veloce. Various cracks gathered at Shuten’s feet, and the ground undulated towards him.
But.
“Aaaaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
A huge silver flash crashed into the tsunami of earth, and cut down the spell before it completed and collapsed the ground.
It is certainly possible for Veloce to be cut down by that big axe. However, even though it is a possibility, that does not automatically mean he would break through.
Just smashing and swinging with the ax, Shuten aimed for her head.
“I dislike such straightforward attacks…!”
[Ancient Spell – Thousand Blades]
Veloce held out her hand. Suddenly countless blades appeared from behind her.
“I will…skewer you and stop your movements…!” (Veloce)
With a flash of silver the thousand blades attacked Shuten. It’s reminiscent of a school of fish, and its speed is comparable to bullets.
But even at the speed of bullets–
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Ah, even this~”
–It was too slow for that demon.
Avoiding the blades targeting him with two steps, he charged towards Veloce. Although the blades turned to chase after him like homing missiles, Shuten and his Demon Slayer was faster.
“Seriously~, it wasn’t enough?” (Veloce)
This single spell [Thousand Blades] would be enough to kill Crane many times over. In this war, if it is that spell, even the entire city of Eden may not be able to defend against it.
This spell which had that much power, was now on the level it was used as a distraction.
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
Veloces lightly tapped the ground.
Once again, a ravine tore into the earth, throwing up another wave of soil to attack Shuten from the front.
“Pincer attack…but one won’t be enough…haa~…” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
*Tap, Tap, Tap, Tap.*
Tapping the ground with her toes for a total of five times, each one brought an earthquake as the ground roared against Shuten. He still tried to attack Veloce, but in front of him the ground has been split in some places and risen in others, almost creating a wall of dirt coming closer to him.
There was also still the imminent danger of the thousand blades from behind.
“Shuteeeennn!!” A voice of despair came out of Crane’s mouth, who had not yet been able to escape as he was unable to even get to his feet.
At the same time, a terrible roaring sound resounded around them from the vast movement of earth.
A pincer attack of the [Cry of Moving Earth] and [Thousand Blades]. In addition, the violence from having ancient spells cast five-fold, then gathered made it incredibly lethal. Both sides overlapped, crushing, piercing, and smashing into each other, where Shuten stood.
“Whew. Even if he is only grazed by the chaos, I would be grateful if it lowers that demon’s power…” Veloce muttered with a sigh.
No, Shuten is already…An unpleasant thought wormed its way into Crane’s imagination.
However, he suddenly realized. The magical power of the surrounding darkness had considerably weakened.
“The pressure is gone…” (Crane)
“What’s the limit to that woman ’s magic?” (Rudius)
“Huh?” (Crane)
He saw Rudius stand up with trembling legs. Is he really planning on challenging the opponent right now? To a monster that could end him in one blow?
Rudius shook his head when he noticed Crane’s surprise, understanding what he wanted to ask.
“Go, Crane. While Shuten earns time, go meet up with everyone and bring back bring a lot of companions. Then we may be able to defeat Imperator who has lost a lot of her mana.” (Rudius)
“…Is that right? But…”(Crane)
If he does so, then, what about Shuten? Shuten, who had just been crushed and he didn’t know if he was alive.
Rudius smiled helplessly at Crane. “That guy–” He pointed towards the battle. Crane followed Rudius’ line of sight towards Veloce.
The sun was shining brightly, making the scene clearly visible to Crane. The figure of Shuten, covered with soil, and with plenty of blades stabbed into him, was descending from the sky while attacking with the Demon Slayer axe. “Aaaaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Wha…!”
There was tremendous sound.
An explosion of dust covered the area. But Crane saw just before that happened; the Demon Slayer had gotten a clean hit at Veloce.
“–Won’t die so easily.” (Rudius)
“……Yeah.” (Crane)
“He can continue a little longer. What we can do now is to reduce his burden.” (Rudius)
“…Oh, we have to somehow.” (Crane)
Even if he can’t fight, he can still help. Crane placed his fist on the ground and forced himself to his feet. He stood, remembering he was not alone.
“Go, Crane.” (Rudius)
“Mhm.” (Crane)
He started running. It doesn’t matter if his senses were dull. No attack will reach him. Crane believed this, because he believed in Shuten.
However, Crane saw it while on his way. That Velocé who definitely should have been killed. She was completely intact in the dust cloud.
“As he is now, he could easily defeat each of the Four Heavenly Demon Kings…” Veloce whispered, while looking at Shuten who stood up with the support of the Demon Slayer.
“Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!”
Shuten, who had overcome each of Veloce’s Ancient Spells and even broken through the stasis barrier with his axe, was steadily accumulating damage. She flicked more [Chaotic Moon] spells at him, as if it was nothing.
But still, Shuten stood up with his Demon Slayer. And just like all the times before, he continued to charge at Veloce.
She couldn’t understand it, but shook her parasol again for another spell.
[Ancient Spell – Moon Dragon Strike]
“There seems to be no time to recover…. just a little bit more magical power is left…” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
No one heard her mutter the truth of the situation.
Instead, a Kijin with tremendous destructive power who had created a synergistic effect between combining five pearl pieces together, continued towards Veloce.
“…Are you prepared for the end? Will it be me or Shuten.” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
As Shuten charged towards her, he turned sideways and became a smaller target.
Her parasol shone with a bright golden light.
In a single day, she has already used her ancient spells many times. Even the [Chaotic Moon] with the lowest mana consumption, she could only use a few more. It wasn’t as if the Imperator could use her magic endlessly without consequences.
The Kamiko of Light who was the target had also escaped. Rather, she couldn’t afford to follow him.
Veloce Vie Atmosphere is a human being.
That’s why there is a possibility of being knocked out if she is hit by the Demon Slayer, even from the side. Moreover, if it was a higher ranking demon, such a hit would completely turn them to blood-splatter.
She can’t afford to let her guard down. However, her fatigue is tremendous and making her less alert.
Even though the consumption of magical power was at a dangerous level. No, it was no exaggeration to say that she was starting to hit the bottom.
“This is no longer any escape, and if you lose, it will be by my umbrella!!” Veloce, who usually hated to put effort in, shook her frilly umbrella. As the distance closed between her and Shuten, she struck the ground.
In an instant the golden glow shattered, and it split into seven dragons with rainbow scales which orbited and spun towards Shuten, leaving light trails behind them.
“Aaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
“These children have no physical substance.” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaahhh!!”
The dragon slipped through the attack of Sten who tried to intercept it with the big ax, and crashed into him. All seven dragons coiled around his hands and ankles until he was fully enveloped. Then, the sounds of explosions rang out into the surrounding wilderness.
A terrible gale blew back the surrounding corpses and survivors, and even reached the walls before it was directed into the sky.
Near the center, Veloce’s parasol was still pointing the epicenter of the explosion. She saw a dark shadow steadily rise among the haze of dust. Evaluating how much energy she has left, Veloce aimed at Shuten once more. “… I don’t have hardly any magical power left… butI’ll definitely beat him…!”
[Ancient Spell – Chaotic Moon Xablefar]
A small black sphere swirled. Is it because the magical power is running out?
She really shouldn’t have played around with the castle gate.
She didn’t think he was a demon with such power. How could she have known how strong his demonization was? She was filled with regrets, but if she cannot stop Shuten here in his rampant state, she may have to flee.
“If I want to escape, I should be able to escape.” Veloce suddenly smiled bitterly.
If she used one of her ancient spells, she could still escape. But why didn’t she want to do that? There was enough magical power to teleport once, yet she still remained.
She didn’t think she had enough energy to kill the child of the God of Light. This should have been a pointless battle. So why can’t she stop?
The answer was simple.
Because it is not pointless.
“I can’t fulfill my purpose, but… there is something I want more instead…Let’s do it…”
As she had said earlier on the Wagonless Road, “If you lose, then you will join us.”[3] Shuten never accepted it, but he is not in a state where she can speak coherently, least of all refuse.
Knowing that, Veloce smiled. “I’ll just do what I want…! For that reason… !!”
The swirling [Chaotic Moon] became larger.
The jet-black torrent rushed towards Sten.
“Aaaaaaahhh!”
He still had power left? Veloce puffed out her cheeks in frustration.
She had already put in such unreasonable effort. She thought it might be okay to fall down here. Even though the thought was enough to upset her, wasn’t that the most logical action? She thought so.
But this was no longer about logic or reason. This was emotion.
Looking back…She had made so many compromises and waited so long. She was glad to have met this strange man.As Shuten swung his big axe left and right, and continued to slash at the black torrents, Veloce remembered her previous frustration.
She had waited in order to interview him. She waited for him to do anything in Tunto. She waited on the Wagonless Road. She held no interest in the invasion of Eden, until she found Shuten was here.
By the way, she planned on inviting him to join the army once more after the battle had ended. She thought they were going to win, after all. She couldn’t forgive herself, if she can’t even get this.
She means to recruit him no matter what. She understood that it was selfish.
But that’s fine.
Because that’s the nature of the Demon King’s Army.
So she refused to fall down at this point.
“Become one of miiiiine!”
“Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!”
Both shouted out.
Then.
Because of the momentum, the black torrent’s power was amplified. It took extra magic power, but she considered it worthwhile.
Because. Because.
“Aaaaaaaaaahhhh!”
The chaotic moon that had crumbled the castle wall, swallowed up Shuten and scattered.
There was the shadow of a fallen man remaining on the ground.
Finally, she won.
“…………”
Looking at that sight.
A feeling boiled up in Veloce’s heart and rampaged. This emotion. It was like something hot was stuck in her chest.
She had just defeated a demon who should have been much weaker than her.
Yet, for some reason.
Her heart beat violently, filled with satisfaction.
“….I did it.” She whispered.
Nobody was here. Almost everything was blown away by the blast.
Only the unconscious Oni and herself are here.
Otherwise, she couldn’t do this.
But she was really happy. The feeling of being happy after a long battle began to dance in her chest.
“Hooray…!!” She raised her fist in victory.
After a bit, she checked on her mana pool, and the result was as expected.
“There is just enough mana for a teleport…”
However, only a short distance transition would be possible. Should I wait for a bit to recover?
However, she heard many voices and marching footsteps approaching.
“…Ah.”
This timing.
Perhaps they thought that she was still fighting with Shuten.
She saw the army soldiers, the Kamiko, and the kindred Nine-tails rushing over.
The timing was bad.
Why wasn’t she allowed to immerse herself in the afterglow of victory? While feeling such an unreasonable frustration, Veloce stepped closer to Shuten who had shown such unbeatable physical strength.
She touched his muscular back.
She knew what she was doing. She will take her own trophy for her victory.
As if panicked, the nine-tailed girl and the child of Light shouted.
It doesn’t matter what they’re saying.
So she said with a smile.
“See you~”
Along with Shuten, Veloce vanished from the spot, not even leaving a dust cloud.
There was a distraught expression on the Nine-tails’ face.
Translation Notes:
I think Crane is underestimating his existence. As the Kamiko, whose purpose is to oppose the Demon King, any of the king’s subordinates would have a reason to kill him? I can only assume he means that Veloce taking action specifically is overkill – but I know if I was a villain, why not send someone who is definitely stronger than the target to ensure they actually die and not just get stronger? The type of king here is called “Nio” (仁王) which is apparently a deva kings/guardian god in buddhism who protected Buddha and still stands guard at Buddhist temples today. I vaguely remember her saying this, but I’ll go back and correct the chapter it most likely is in to match.
Volume 3 Chapter 25
Plains of Vitality V [Veloce Boss Battle]
{General POV}
“I’ve come to ask about Braument’s death. Shuten seems to have obtained his goal, which may be for the best.” (Veloce)
That voice, that appearance, that presence. It was the return of a monster.
A small shadow stood alone among the wilderness at dusk. Crane felt terrified even though she was shorter than Haruna.
Crane couldn’t say whether he had simply forgotten about her or blocked her out of his mind, but that doesn’t change the fact that she was here in front of them.
If he were to verbalize this situation, it was nothing other than the “worst” outcome.
Crane Fafnir is the Kamiko of Light. That was why he had an obligation to confront any entity like this, even if they were the incarnation of darkness. However, in addition to being riddled with sword wounds and his vision already swimming with exhaustion, the difference in ability between him and this girl was obvious.
A silhouette stepped in between Crane and the girl. Rather, it was a young man who stood between them as if in protection. Messy black hair and a large back obscured his view. His intentions were undeniably obvious. That is the only reason Crane was able to take a break to catch his breath.
“…Hey, Veloce, how are you? I managed to achieve my goal, but I apologize if I’ve disturbed you.” (Shuten)
The Oni, Shuten.
Crane knew he was south of Eden. He also thought it was possible Shuten would notice the commotion from the war. But to think he would appear just after he had let his guard down, after being filled with the satisfaction of defeating Braument with his own hands.
Crane was proud of what he was able to accomplish. After last time where he could only be protected, he had studied and focused his training. Now, he had been able to become stronger and fulfill his revenge. Although he hadn’t been able to say much, Crane was glad that he could show his efforts to Shuten.
With those kind of feelings, he had thrown out a question. However, before he could get an answer to his question, a calamity had appeared.
Veloce Vie Atmosphere.
The Demon King’s “Imperator.”
Shuten spoke lightly, but Crane could tell that he was tense.
“Oh, that’s fine. In any case I knew this invasion would fail when ‘Wheel’ didn’t come. It’ll be nice to have one less annoying member in the Four Demon Lords. They were a lot of work. –It’s just like how I will be erasing the Kamiko of Light.” (Veloce)
“Wait, wait, Veloce. What are you saying?” (Shuten)
“It’s a rejection~. If you don’t let me do this, then how am I supposed to stay as the Demon King’s “Imperator?” If I can’t take care of him now, the others will annoy me to death~.”
Why does she want to kill the Kamiko of light? There are a number of reasons that come to mind, but even with these reasons, isn’t he still too weak to catch her notice?
If it’s because they know that he’s trying to subdue the Demon Lord, the difference in their power is clear.
If she is acting now because he had defeated Braument just now, then Crane would still be too weak for her to act directly.
If it is because he has collected two of the keys to the Underground Empire, then wouldn’t she have called him the key-bearer or something rather than the Kamiko?
He did not understand. [1]
Even though all demons should want to kill him, then why…is Shuten protecting him? Perhaps, he knows something? Within the exchange between Shuten and Veloce, there seemed to be some underlying tone that made Crane think that way.
And so.
“Will you be my opponent? …Kijin of the Oni tribe.” (Veloce)
“…Haha.” (Shuten)
Crane didn’t understand exactly why the Oni would fight against the Imperator with cheat-like strength. Comparing the power of that girl, the kamiko realized how insane it was to even think of defeating the Demon King. Just what was he basing his confidence on?
Shuten’s right hand reached for the large ax on his back.
This man was going to fight.
Even on the wagonless highway, he had hesitated to oppose the Imperator. But now he was trying to fight her. To save Crane and Rudius, rather than himself
What makes him go so far? Why does he protect me? Crane thought.
Those golden eyes glanced over at Crane and Rudius. Reflected in those eyes was their exhausted forms lying on the ground. Shuten’s gentle smile made his eyes narrow playfully.
“You guys look worn out.” (Shuten)
“…Shuten, you?” (Crane)
“What are you going to do…Shuten…” (Rudius)
“Yeah, if you stay here then you’ll just get beaten, so I’ll take care of it. So do your best to flee from here?” Shuten abruptly said.
His mouth wouldn’t open while he was in this situation where he was suppressed by aura. Still, he had just enough strength to try and ask what he needed to know. No, if he does as Shuten says now, then he doesn’t know if he’ll get another opportunity to ask. Who knows when he would get the chance?
That’s why he did all he could to squeeze out the words in his throat.
“……Wh-What….!?!”
“No worries, no worries. There’s nothing to be concerned about. I won’t die. Because that person and I are on good terms…Yeah, I think, probably. But you guys would die. That’s why I’ll take the beating. Kay?”
“Shuten…!!”
Wait please. You can’t do that. Crane wasn’t able to even mouth the words.
Even though he was tired and can hardly breathe, the magical power of the darkness sprouting from the girl devoured his energy further, and her aura completely crushed the Child of the God of Light so he was no longer able to speak. He was unable to resist her aura.
“Lend me some time, Miss Veloce.” (Shuten)
“…You will fight me~? Unlike before, you decided quickly.” (Veloce)
Shuten pulled out his big axe.
At the same time, a more powerful energy erupted from before Velocé.
“Well yeah, you helped me make a fast decision. I’ve matured.” (Shuten)
“…Do you really think our strength is comparable?” (Veloce)
They were ready to battle.
Crane was still stuck. However, he saw some movement next to him. Rudius.
What is he doing? Just looking over at him, Crane understood once they made eye-contact. He wanted to help. Even if his assistance would only be on the level of a grain of rice, he would do what he could to make that smallest opportunity.
But.
The next moment, the atmosphere of Shuten in front of them changed.
“Aah, that’s right. If I have to eat something unpleasant. Then I think it is better to eat it all at once, rather than enduring through multiple portions.” Shuten said so quickly, moving the big ax to his left hand.
“Huh?” Veloce realized something was about to happen.
Crane and Rudius’s hair blew back from the wind pressure made as the axe was vigorously swung. Dust suddenly flew up and fluttered in the air. Then.
“Well, do your best to run away.” Shuten spoke towards those behind him.
Regardless of the reason, it seemed that Crane’s assistance was not necessary, and even the man’s Intimidation Aura was difficult to approach, as if urging them away.
Crane understood he would die if he didn’t run away.
However, he couldn’t leave a man who might be a friend. Also, Crane owed Shuten for all of his help. A young man who seemed only a little older than himself.
He had a flashback to the encounter in Tunto. On the wagonless highway. And talking in Merrick.
The Shuten before him, almost seemed as if he was about to take a bullet for Crane. So he has to stop him. Nevertheless.
Shuten turned around halfway to them in order to say one last thing. He grinned and laughed, saying, “If I escape from Veloce and come back…I’ll see you again.”
“Wha…!!” (Crane)
Before Crane could say anything more, Shuten slammed his right hand against his chest – the opposite of the hand that held the big axe.
“Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooh!” Shuten roared.
It was a terrible noise that rang out across the entire Plains of Vitality. Veloce before them was also surprised. The prior overwhelming feeling of dark magic coming from Veloce had been devoured by Shuten.
He crouched as if he was holding down an amplified explosion within, and you could see his blood vessels strain under the pressure.
“Aaaaaaahhh!”
“…Amplification of Intimidation Aura? No, it’s an increase in soul…In any case, what a terrifying feeling…what, is this…” Veloce groaned.
The next moment.
Shuten’s aura boiled and turned red. As it clung to him, his Intimidation Aura condensed like mist and increased in power by threefold, while continuing to increase.
“Oooaaaaaahhh!!”
Even the energy in the noise he made was much greater than Crane had seen before. Shuten screamed consistently, as if to help him withstand something and reinforce himself.
That lasted for a while, later.
“Fuyuu…” (Shuten)
The storm that was blowing around Shuten stopped. As if the storm has passed away, and the air quieted down eerily. However, there was no one there who did not feel the burning spirit that dwelled within the demon.
Is this what Shuten is like when he fights seriously? Shock filled Crane’s eyes as he stared at him.
“…That’s the red aura, isn’t it?!? But what a ridiculous thing.” (Veloce)
“…” (Shuten)
“Well~, fine…I’ll fight. With all the power of the 3rd strongest of the Demon King’s Army….For the first time since I was called over, I’ll have to go all out…Had I known, I wouldn’t have wasted my magic power to destroy the gate…” (Veloce)
This was the presence of a true Demon.
Wrapped in a red aura,his eyes glowed like shining gold. Wielding such an enormous weapon lazily, it is obvious his strength is unusual.
To Veloce, this figure confronting her looks like a king[2].
The girl’s casual expression disappeared from her face.
“…Just a bit, this amount of energy may be life-threatening.” (Veloce)
She closed the frilled parasol.
As if she had given in somehow, Veloce’s amethyst eyes were focused only on Shuten. Is she preparing to go all out? Either way, Crane was no longer in her eyes.
No, there is no chance for him to enter. The existence of Shuten doesn’t show any gaps that would allow that to happen.
“Huu…” The corner of her mouth raised only slightly, and softly sighed.
The magical power of darkness that had spread to the surroundings began to drift more densely after being further compressed by her.
Both are showing off your intent to fight with all they have.
“I’m going to be serious. I’m ready… are you ready?” (Veloce)
Crane’s spine shivered at the look in her eyes, even though they were not directed at him.
Despite Shuten’s brutish strength, there was no chance of getting to her. At least it seemed so to Crane.
However.
Crane didn’t miss the cold sweat on Veloce’s cheek.
Veloce is ready to rumble! ▼
The next moment.
Shuten disappeared.
The earth collapsed.
By the time Crane noticed, Shuten was no longer in front of him.
Instead there was a crater. As if from a turbo burst, Shuten neared Velocé in an instant.
“Aaaaaaahh!”
“Oh, we’re starting already~…” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Puppet Division]
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Woah~” (Veloce)
With a *Bang!!* the earth was immediately torn asunder.
However, Veloce’s body, which he thought he had hit, faded away. Instead, countless silhouettes floated in the air.
All of them are Veloce Vie Atmosphere.
“I’d be impressed if you had hit me.” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Chaotic Moon Xablefar]
A large amount of black waves was released from the Veloces, becoming hundreds in the air, then shooting towards Shuten on the ground. Crane understood that with this amount of energy, it would be enough to destroy the gate all over again.
But.
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Oh~, is he serious?”
Shuten leapt at one individual of the many shooting the black magic.
He swung his large axe horizontally, tearing apart all the chaotic moon attacks before him.
“How did you know I was the main body!?” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“You aren’t listening” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Mirrored Fortress]
Hundreds of the Veloces disappeared. At the same time, all the black torrents that they had released disappeared. Apparently it was an illusion with the intimidation aura being real.
A transparent cube formed around Shuten, stopping him before he reached Veloce. The moment he was enclosed, Shuten stopped moving as if it were frozen. From the air, Veloce slowly descended to the ground, looking at the motionless Shuten.
“I used it previously when Gurefeil of ‘Power’ rampaged before, but it kept that man frozen for an hour.” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!!”
“That’s five seconds. Yeah, I knew it.”
Shuten, with his black hair and red aura, fell down to the ground with the sound of glass breaking. The ax he swung down at that time produced the same level of pressure as when the [Chaotic Moon] hit the castle gate.
However, the crater he left behind no longer held the figure of Veloce.
Veloce landed heavily to the side, and stumbled.
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
A fissure began to open, casting dirt away from Veloce. Various cracks gathered at Shuten’s feet, and the ground undulated towards him.
But.
“Aaaaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
A huge silver flash crashed into the tsunami of earth, and cut down the spell before it completed and collapsed the ground.
It is certainly possible for Veloce to be cut down by that big axe. However, even though it is a possibility, that does not automatically mean he would break through.
Just smashing and swinging with the ax, Shuten aimed for her head.
“I dislike such straightforward attacks…!”
[Ancient Spell – Thousand Blades]
Veloce held out her hand. Suddenly countless blades appeared from behind her.
“I will…skewer you and stop your movements…!” (Veloce)
With a flash of silver the thousand blades attacked Shuten. It’s reminiscent of a school of fish, and its speed is comparable to bullets.
But even at the speed of bullets–
“Aaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Ah, even this~”
–It was too slow for that demon.
Avoiding the blades targeting him with two steps, he charged towards Veloce. Although the blades turned to chase after him like homing missiles, Shuten and his Demon Slayer was faster.
“Seriously~, it wasn’t enough?” (Veloce)
This single spell [Thousand Blades] would be enough to kill Crane many times over. In this war, if it is that spell, even the entire city of Eden may not be able to defend against it.
This spell which had that much power, was now on the level it was used as a distraction.
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
Veloces lightly tapped the ground.
Once again, a ravine tore into the earth, throwing up another wave of soil to attack Shuten from the front.
“Pincer attack…but one won’t be enough…haa~…” (Veloce)
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
[Ancient Spell – Cry of Moving Earth]
*Tap, Tap, Tap, Tap.*
Tapping the ground with her toes for a total of five times, each one brought an earthquake as the ground roared against Shuten. He still tried to attack Veloce, but in front of him the ground has been split in some places and risen in others, almost creating a wall of dirt coming closer to him.
There was also still the imminent danger of the thousand blades from behind.
“Shuteeeennn!!” A voice of despair came out of Crane’s mouth, who had not yet been able to escape as he was unable to even get to his feet.
At the same time, a terrible roaring sound resounded around them from the vast movement of earth.
A pincer attack of the [Cry of Moving Earth] and [Thousand Blades]. In addition, the violence from having ancient spells cast five-fold, then gathered made it incredibly lethal. Both sides overlapped, crushing, piercing, and smashing into each other, where Shuten stood.
“Whew. Even if he is only grazed by the chaos, I would be grateful if it lowers that demon’s power…” Veloce muttered with a sigh.
No, Shuten is already…An unpleasant thought wormed its way into Crane’s imagination.
However, he suddenly realized. The magical power of the surrounding darkness had considerably weakened.
“The pressure is gone…” (Crane)
“What’s the limit to that woman ’s magic?” (Rudius)
“Huh?” (Crane)
He saw Rudius stand up with trembling legs. Is he really planning on challenging the opponent right now? To a monster that could end him in one blow?
Rudius shook his head when he noticed Crane’s surprise, understanding what he wanted to ask.
“Go, Crane. While Shuten earns time, go meet up with everyone and bring back bring a lot of companions. Then we may be able to defeat Imperator who has lost a lot of her mana.” (Rudius)
“…Is that right? But…”(Crane)
If he does so, then, what about Shuten? Shuten, who had just been crushed and he didn’t know if he was alive.
Rudius smiled helplessly at Crane. “That guy–” He pointed towards the battle. Crane followed Rudius’ line of sight towards Veloce.
The sun was shining brightly, making the scene clearly visible to Crane. The figure of Shuten, covered with soil, and with plenty of blades stabbed into him, was descending from the sky while attacking with the Demon Slayer axe. “Aaaaaaaaaaahhh!!”
“Wha…!”
There was tremendous sound.
An explosion of dust covered the area. But Crane saw just before that happened; the Demon Slayer had gotten a clean hit at Veloce.
“–Won’t die so easily.” (Rudius)
“……Yeah.” (Crane)
“He can continue a little longer. What we can do now is to reduce his burden.” (Rudius)
“…Oh, we have to somehow.” (Crane)
Even if he can’t fight, he can still help. Crane placed his fist on the ground and forced himself to his feet. He stood, remembering he was not alone.
“Go, Crane.” (Rudius)
“Mhm.” (Crane)
He started running. It doesn’t matter if his senses were dull. No attack will reach him. Crane believed this, because he believed in Shuten.
However, Crane saw it while on his way. That Velocé who definitely should have been killed. She was completely intact in the dust cloud.
“As he is now, he could easily defeat each of the Four Heavenly Demon Kings…” Veloce whispered, while looking at Shuten who stood up with the support of the Demon Slayer.
“Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!”
Shuten, who had overcome each of Veloce’s Ancient Spells and even broken through the stasis barrier with his axe, was steadily accumulating damage. She flicked more [Chaotic Moon] spells at him, as if it was nothing.
But still, Shuten stood up with his Demon Slayer. And just like all the times before, he continued to charge at Veloce.
She couldn’t understand it, but shook her parasol again for another spell.
[Ancient Spell – Moon Dragon Strike]
“There seems to be no time to recover…. just a little bit more magical power is left…” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
No one heard her mutter the truth of the situation.
Instead, a Kijin with tremendous destructive power who had created a synergistic effect between combining five pearl pieces together, continued towards Veloce.
“…Are you prepared for the end? Will it be me or Shuten.” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
As Shuten charged towards her, he turned sideways and became a smaller target.
Her parasol shone with a bright golden light.
In a single day, she has already used her ancient spells many times. Even the [Chaotic Moon] with the lowest mana consumption, she could only use a few more. It wasn’t as if the Imperator could use her magic endlessly without consequences.
The Kamiko of Light who was the target had also escaped. Rather, she couldn’t afford to follow him.
Veloce Vie Atmosphere is a human being.
That’s why there is a possibility of being knocked out if she is hit by the Demon Slayer, even from the side. Moreover, if it was a higher ranking demon, such a hit would completely turn them to blood-splatter.
She can’t afford to let her guard down. However, her fatigue is tremendous and making her less alert.
Even though the consumption of magical power was at a dangerous level. No, it was no exaggeration to say that she was starting to hit the bottom.
“This is no longer any escape, and if you lose, it will be by my umbrella!!” Veloce, who usually hated to put effort in, shook her frilly umbrella. As the distance closed between her and Shuten, she struck the ground.
In an instant the golden glow shattered, and it split into seven dragons with rainbow scales which orbited and spun towards Shuten, leaving light trails behind them.
“Aaaaaaaaahhhh!!”
“These children have no physical substance.” (Veloce)
“Aaaaaahhh!!”
The dragon slipped through the attack of Sten who tried to intercept it with the big ax, and crashed into him. All seven dragons coiled around his hands and ankles until he was fully enveloped. Then, the sounds of explosions rang out into the surrounding wilderness.
A terrible gale blew back the surrounding corpses and survivors, and even reached the walls before it was directed into the sky.
Near the center, Veloce’s parasol was still pointing the epicenter of the explosion. She saw a dark shadow steadily rise among the haze of dust. Evaluating how much energy she has left, Veloce aimed at Shuten once more. “… I don’t have hardly any magical power left… butI’ll definitely beat him…!”
[Ancient Spell – Chaotic Moon Xablefar]
A small black sphere swirled. Is it because the magical power is running out?
She really shouldn’t have played around with the castle gate.
She didn’t think he was a demon with such power. How could she have known how strong his demonization was? She was filled with regrets, but if she cannot stop Shuten here in his rampant state, she may have to flee.
“If I want to escape, I should be able to escape.” Veloce suddenly smiled bitterly.
If she used one of her ancient spells, she could still escape. But why didn’t she want to do that? There was enough magical power to teleport once, yet she still remained.
She didn’t think she had enough energy to kill the child of the God of Light. This should have been a pointless battle. So why can’t she stop?
The answer was simple.
Because it is not pointless.
“I can’t fulfill my purpose, but… there is something I want more instead…Let’s do it…”
As she had said earlier on the Wagonless Road, “If you lose, then you will join us.”[3] Shuten never accepted it, but he is not in a state where she can speak coherently, least of all refuse.
Knowing that, Veloce smiled. “I’ll just do what I want…! For that reason… !!”
The swirling [Chaotic Moon] became larger.
The jet-black torrent rushed towards Sten.
“Aaaaaaahhh!”
He still had power left? Veloce puffed out her cheeks in frustration.
She had already put in such unreasonable effort. She thought it might be okay to fall down here. Even though the thought was enough to upset her, wasn’t that the most logical action? She thought so.
But this was no longer about logic or reason. This was emotion.
Looking back…She had made so many compromises and waited so long. She was glad to have met this strange man.As Shuten swung his big axe left and right, and continued to slash at the black torrents, Veloce remembered her previous frustration.
She had waited in order to interview him. She waited for him to do anything in Tunto. She waited on the Wagonless Road. She held no interest in the invasion of Eden, until she found Shuten was here.
By the way, she planned on inviting him to join the army once more after the battle had ended. She thought they were going to win, after all. She couldn’t forgive herself, if she can’t even get this.
She means to recruit him no matter what. She understood that it was selfish.
But that’s fine.
Because that’s the nature of the Demon King’s Army.
So she refused to fall down at this point.
“Become one of miiiiine!”
“Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!”
Both shouted out.
Then.
Because of the momentum, the black torrent’s power was amplified. It took extra magic power, but she considered it worthwhile.
Because. Because.
“Aaaaaaaaaahhhh!”
The chaotic moon that had crumbled the castle wall, swallowed up Shuten and scattered.
There was the shadow of a fallen man remaining on the ground.
Finally, she won.
“…………”
Looking at that sight.
A feeling boiled up in Veloce’s heart and rampaged. This emotion. It was like something hot was stuck in her chest.
She had just defeated a demon who should have been much weaker than her.
Yet, for some reason.
Her heart beat violently, filled with satisfaction.
“….I did it.” She whispered.
Nobody was here. Almost everything was blown away by the blast.
Only the unconscious Oni and herself are here.
Otherwise, she couldn’t do this.
But she was really happy. The feeling of being happy after a long battle began to dance in her chest.
“Hooray…!!” She raised her fist in victory.
After a bit, she checked on her mana pool, and the result was as expected.
“There is just enough mana for a teleport…”
However, only a short distance transition would be possible. Should I wait for a bit to recover?
However, she heard many voices and marching footsteps approaching.
“…Ah.”
This timing.
Perhaps they thought that she was still fighting with Shuten.
She saw the army soldiers, the Kamiko, and the kindred Nine-tails rushing over.
The timing was bad.
Why wasn’t she allowed to immerse herself in the afterglow of victory? While feeling such an unreasonable frustration, Veloce stepped closer to Shuten who had shown such unbeatable physical strength.
She touched his muscular back.
She knew what she was doing. She will take her own trophy for her victory.
As if panicked, the nine-tailed girl and the child of Light shouted.
It doesn’t matter what they’re saying.
So she said with a smile.
“See you~”
Along with Shuten, Veloce vanished from the spot, not even leaving a dust cloud.
There was a distraught expression on the Nine-tails’ face.
Translation Notes:
I think Crane is underestimating his existence. As the Kamiko, whose purpose is to oppose the Demon King, any of the king’s subordinates would have a reason to kill him? I can only assume he means that Veloce taking action specifically is overkill – but I know if I was a villain, why not send someone who is definitely stronger than the target to ensure they actually die and not just get stronger? The type of king here is called “Nio” (仁王) which is apparently a deva kings/guardian god in buddhism who protected Buddha and still stands guard at Buddhist temples today. I vaguely remember her saying this, but I’ll go back and correct the chapter it most likely is in to match.