In a traditional Japanese restaurant proud of its hundred years old history located in the metropolitan area, Kannagi Ayano was staring
at the man seated in front of her, studying his face without any particular intention.
He was in the first half of his twenties, a very handsome young man. He was approximately 180 centimeters tall.
He was slender but his body was covered in muscle.
From what she observed from his body movements, his Taiju-tsu seemed pretty strong.
Even more, she heard he was an excellent Jutsushi.
That was, in short, Ayano's marriage partner, Tsuchimikado Takaaki.
She couldn't find any defect. One of those rare few men all the others curse at.
At the very least, there is no mistake that the majority of women would be ecstatic at fortuitously meeting such a high quality man at a marriage interview.
But----
Returning a small forced smile at the man who, sensing her gaze, showed her a very refreshing smile, Ayano casually averted her eyes.
And then, just as meaningless, she let her gaze wandering around again.
"I wish this would finish already......."
Even though it had just begun, Ayano was already having such thoughts.
From the start, the reason she was proactive about the Omiai were her spiteful words towards Kazuma.
But since her anger was at an usual intensity, obviously it couldn't have lasted this long.
Furthermore, although Ayano's actions and personality was aggressive she was very child-like when it came to love related matters.
Which means she was at the age she was viewing love and marriage through a rosy filter.
For someone like her, events like marriage interviews were not a prospect she would get enthusiastic about.
Therefore, today's Omiai was nothing but a job she tolerated because of her sense of obligation.
"Is Ayano-san feeling somewhat tense? "
Ignorant of Ayano's feelings, the middle-aged woman acting as a mediator, frequently brought up the matter.
Showing a forced smile, Ayano replied in a few words.
"Aah, yes, a little. This is my first time after all"
"Well, how innocent. But, there is nothing you need to worry about. Everyone has a first time"
"........thank you very much"
After a few moments of silence, Ayano calmly bowed. At the same time, doing it in such a way not to be seen, she glared at the laughing
Juugo, sitting close by.
But it was reasonable for the mediator to say such things.
Right now, Ayano was dressed in a gorgeous long sleeve kimono, her hair was carefully arranged, indeed the personification of a gentle,
secluded young woman.
Someone seeing her right now would have a hard time imagining her habitual liveliness, liveliness being an awfully favorable expression
---- or rather, it was impossible.
Just by observing, both Takaaki and his also present parents were looking at her with faces full of smiles.
"Eee, eeeehhhh.....what should I do?"
As if helping Ayano was unintentionally became troubled, a voice called out from the hallway.
It seems like the waitress brought the cuisine.
Relived by the sudden halt of the conversation, Ayano shifted her eyes towards the brought in dishes.
She couldn't possibly enjoy the very aesthetically pleasing gourmet meal now----
"Whaaa-----?"
It was a miraculous good fortune that her surprised voice didn't come out. Or rather, because the shock was too strong, her voice
couldn't possibly come out.
Doubting her own eyes, Ayano stared at the waitress.
A composed figure dressed in kimono, not attracting anyone's attention but with a naturally smiling face favored by customers.
Her shoulder length wavy hair was pulled in a bun but she still looked soft, a face Ayano knew very well that should have been impossible
to see here.
This was without a doubt Shinomiya Yuukari.
"Wah...why are you...."
With a sidelong glance towards the silent Ayano, standing there in blank amazement, Yuukari safely finished setting the table.
And then, just before leaving she looked at Ayano.
Although only Ayano saw it, there is no mistake, she was smiling.
"Ufufufu, are you surprised? "
As if hearing those words aloud, Ayano had a moment of vertigo.
After that, the Omiai went on without any problems. Since then Yuukari didn't appear again and there was no indication that anything out
of ordinary was going to happen.
But Ayano knew better. That woman will do something. Even now, she's definitely peeking in the room. And there is no mistake she's also
recording this.
In short, because of Yuukari she will have to destroy all evidence about Omiai.
While looking like she was having a calm, gentle chat, in fact Ayano was more tense now than when she was facing Youmas.
At that precise moment, the mediator looked at both Ayano and Takaaki and said with a smiling face.
"This Royutei is famous for it's beautiful garden. Will the two of you like to take a stroll? "
This was a standard development for an Omiai. Obviously there was no reason to refuse.
"-----Yes"
With a lovely smile Ayano took Takaaki's extended hand.
"Aah, I found another one"
Hiiragi Taiichirou, wearing a very thick glove ripped of another charm glued to a tree. And he pasted it on another nearby tree, this
time upside down.
The charm had no glue on it but fore some reason it stuck to the tree very tightly.
"Yes, one more. ---But even so, where did that girl find such an item? "
Looking amazed, Taiichirou was looking at the glove in his right hand.
『the anti magical glove』 -- that's what she called it.
And just like its name, it was able to slightly nullify certain magical objects.
Everything he did was according to her guidance.
She was the one who located and infiltrated the Ryoutei by becoming a waitress there and also the one who let him in.
And the one who handed him this magical item, something normal people couldn't get their hands on.
"Shinomiya Senpai --- just what kind of girl is she? "
She was a completely mysterious girl. But that didn't matter now.
Because right now Taiichirou had a mission he needs to complete no matter what.
"Those Tsuchimikado people seem to scheme something"
Yuukari whispered so very quietly, anticipating Taiichirou's infiltration. And then she enumerated some suspicious points.
Although they especially reserved the Ryoutei, people were prohibited on entering it that day. Here and there in the garden there was a
web of placed charms, surrounding the building.
And inside and outside this site more than thirty Omiouji were guarding the inn.
"There's is no need for such a strong defense if it's just an Omiai. I'm sure they're planning something really bad. Something like
manipulate Ayano-chan's heart and forcibly begin the marriage! "
That was forcing the bound of logic. Or rather, she was willingly distorting it.
But with that speech, she persuaded Taiichirou who firmly believed in her reasoning. And after handing him that glove, she showed him how to disturb the curse.
"This may be a very dangerous task. ---- But right now Hiiragi-kun is the only one who can protect Ayano-chan. Please, help her out! "
"Yes! Leave it to me! "
Taiichirou strongly agreed without a second of hesitation.
There's no need to say it but Tsuchimikado's excessive defense was an express preparation against Kazuma's declaration of attack.
The laid out charms were only a barrier sensing trespassers.
But without knowing any of that, Yuukari involved Taiichirou who was fighting alone, ignoring the peril, all for Ayano-chan.
But, he was an amateur after all.
Up until now his luck was good, after finding another charm, the moment he rushed towards it----
"Don't move"
A cold voice stopped Taiichirou in his tracks.
"Eeh....aah, ano....."
"Who are you, bastard? "
"I- I am ......working here"
"Don't lie"
The man easily rejected Taiichirou's frantic explanation.
"I already confirmed the faces of all people working here today. I did not see you. "
"W- well...."
"Turn around. Slowly. "
"............."
While his heart seemed to want to jump out of his chest because of too much fear, excitement and tension, Taiichirou was desperately
trying to think of some way plan to break out of this situation.
But obviously someone like Taiichirou, a simple student, had no brilliant plan to get out of this.
If he would have been able to collect himself a little bit, surely he would see that too but right now he wasn't calm by any means.
Rather, inside his head, the Tsuchimikado practitioners were the pawns of evil that were trying to surround Ayano with some evil
magic. ------ Therefore.
"Uuu......Uuuuuuuaaaaaaaaaaahghhhh!"
While the boy in a frenzy was screaming in a voice turned inside out, he took a swing at the man behind.
This turned out to be another unhappy thing because that man turned out to be not a very good practitioner.
And because he was self-conscious about it he used the greatest amount of power he could muster against the boy.
If he would have tried to apprehend him by force, it would have ended then and there.
The man took out an amulet from his breast pocket. But since he was inexperienced, the Jutsu activation sequence was slow.
Slow enough for the desperate boy to reach him with his hand.
All these factors turned into one conclusion.
By chance, or maybe some of his reasoning was still left, right before the curse was thrown, Taiichirou caught it in his right hand ---
the one with the anti-magic glove.
Of course, that was a very foolish and reckless action. Even leaving out the fact that Yuukari was a high-school girl, the magic tools a
civilian could obtain had no power to stop an amulet that was already activated.
But, absolutely unintentional --- the man's Jutsu activated in a form bad for both of them.
"Ayano-san, are you bored? "
"Eeh? -------No, I'm really enjoyed"
Ayano replied to Takaaki's question with a smiling face. It was by no means a pretense.
The atmosphere now was exceedingly pleasant, compared with the usual Omiai atmosphere.
The existence of the man walking next to her was not unpleasant.
Conversation topics were plenty, he had a perfect gentleman behavior and he was smoothly taking the stance she most wanted.
Therefore, right now Ayano was enjoying her conversation with Takaaki and the garden stroll from the bottom of her heart.
"I an glad. Because I thought it obvious Ayano-san would find this unpleasant. "
"-----Why is that? "
"Why you ask, although you are only sixteen you had to have this Omiai because of an arrangement with an old household so I wondered if
you will be able to stomach it. Besides, I heard you had a lover....."
Suddenly feeling a lethal level thirst to kill, Takaaki suddenly interrupted his words and put himself on guard.
But the thirst for blood instantly vanished, and the atmosphere that turned to lead promptly recovered it's normal state.
"Did something happen? "
"Aah, no.....for a moment I thought I sensed a terrible thirst for blood from somewhere. "
"Who knows, I did not feel anything. -----Aah, and then? "
"What do you mean? "
"If the person Takaaki-san spoke of as my lover refers perhaps to Yagami Kazuma, that is an unfounded rumor and complete nonsense. ",
declared Ayano smiling.
"Is that so? "
"Yes. I spend a lot of time with him because of work but that is all there is. Yes, really. Not even a milligram more that that exists. "
".....Is, is that so? "
Feeling for some reason a bizarre pressure from those words spoken with a smiling face, Takaaki agreed with a subtly stiff face.
But, immediately pulling himself together-----
"So, does that mean I can have a little bit of hope? "
"------Hearing something like that so suddenly makes me embarrassed. "
Somewhat casting her eyes downwards, Ayano replied in confusion.
Right-away, Takaaki smoothly changed his previous remarks.
"You are right, I am rushing it. Please forgive me. "
"No, your feeling make me happy. ", replied Ayano sincerely.
She didn't have a lot of opportunities of coming into contact with a composed adult male, giving off a different feeling than the greedy
boys her age.
And receiving such open courtesy from that kind of companion, honestly, it didn't feel bad at all.
"If you say so, I am happy too. But, from your expression, am I to understand Ayano-san doesn't have a high opinion about the man called
Yagami? "
"Yes, he's the worst. "
Takaaki seemed quite surprised hearing such merciless words.
"The worst, you say? "
"Yes. As a Fuujutsu-shi he is first-class but beside that, his character is twisted, a shark towards money, calmly abandons people in
trouble and feels no shame about it ---- if I were to enumerate his defects, I ccould go on until tomorrow morning. "
"That's a pretty awful man. Although just business related, it must be really tough on you to have to cooperate with such a man. "
"Something like that.........."
When Ayano was bracing herself to abuse Kazuma even more, at that time---
Suddenly, from the grove of trees inside the garden the sound of an explosion reverberated.
Immediately after that continuous dull sound could be heard, while it cleared away all trees in it's path, 『something』 swiftly turned
towards them.
"..............."
Ayano immediately put herself on guard. As if protecting her, Takaaki took one step forward.
Already a few sheets of charms were held between his fingertips.
『Something』 with so much speed it seemed to ride a strong wind.
It's limbs strongly kicked the ground and without easing up the speed, it threw itself upon Takaaki. But----
"Gyaaah! "
Repelled by the barrier put around Takaaki, it was blown off as if it was hit by a car.
".........what, is this thing? "
Puzzled, but without showing any opening, Takaaki murmured.
That's right, although it ran towards them on four legs like a beast, it's outward appearance looked human.
But it's face was one Ayano saw often. Although he seemed possessed by something strange.
"....Hiiragi-kun? "
"Do you know him? "
Catching up that murmur, Taiichirou asked in a surprised tone.
"He's a junior from my school. But why----"
is he here was she trying to express while pinning down both her temples as if trying to bear a headache.
There were no whys though, it was all that woman's scheme.
"Yuukari........what did you do? "
"Ayano-san? "
"-----No, I'm fine. Anyway, I'll take care of him. "
"What a thing to say, letting a lady fight while I'm hiding behind. I'll be the one to protect you. "
Hearing Takaaki's proud proclamation, Ayano quietly looked up to him.
"I didn't think I wanted to be protected though--------"
She was not dissatisfied that Takaaki would protect her. It didn't matter who the man that would try to protect her was.
She simply did not desire for a guardian that would shelter her from any possible dangers.
It was essential they both fight together, that he was a partner worthy on entrusting her back to him.
Takaaki seemed to accurately read Ayano's thoughts. Staring st her as if in admiration, he shrewdly corrected himself.
"Then, let me look better in front of you. "
Hearing those words, Ayano began to smile broadly.
She did not hate this type of person who could display this kind of tact.
Not turning his words into sarcasm but purposefully speaking in such an uncool way made a good impression on her.
Cheerfully, Ayano conceded the highlight scene.
"If you are willing to say so much, I am leaving it to you. However, since he is sort of my acquittance please leave no after effects. "
"Do not worry. This is an Omiouji's field of expertise. I will show you a perfect purification. "
Bowing confidently, Takaaki turned around to Taiichirou. And then, as if trying to make sure of something he let out a small murmur, his eyes somewhat narrow.
"As I thought ---- but why did this happen? "
"What's the matter? "
"The thing that's possessing him, resembles a form of divination used by Kuzuragi's --- one of my father's subordinates. I am fairly sure
it's the same. "
".......You mean, that Kuzuragi-san was the one who made him possessed? "
"Well, unexpectedly, I feel no control from him. Besides there's no reason for him to do this. ", replied Takaaki in a bewildered tone.
Still, he could not ascertain what 『circumstance』 would allow for Taiichirou to become crushed under a divination charm.
A specialist like himself could not imagine there are people with such reckless behavior.
It was the same foolish move done by someone who would remove the safety pin from a hand grenade and grasp it.
"I have no idea how it became like this, but since he is Ayano-san's friend I won't be rough. I'll exorcise you gently so please feel at
peace, boy. "
Pushing out before his eyes the hand with the set up amulet, Takaaki showed a daring smile. His teeth were shining white in the sunlight.
And at the same time.
Kazuma and Kaguya were looking down at the fight between Takaaki and Taiichirou from the Ryoutei's rooftop.
"Still, this is odd. Who would have thought that an incident would happen without having to intervene myself. Besides, why isn't there a
barrier spread around this place? "
Kazuma grumbled dissatisfied they didn't heed his warning.
If they would have arrived a little bit earlier a showy entrance could be depended upon but since Taiichirou already interfered and the
amulets composing the barrier were disordered, the barrier already lost it's function.
But because of that, Kazuma was able to enter the perimeter without anyone noticing it.
And then concerning the struggle beneath his eyes, as expected of Tsuchimikado's direct descendant, he was able to display a very quick
exorcism.
While looking down without any particular intention at Ayano's smiling face that seemed to give praise to that skill, Kazuma asked his
employer.
"So, what are you going to do from now on? "
"T- that girl, she's getting too close to Onii-sama! How shameless! I won't allow it anymore! In order to never be able to face Onii-sama
again, I'll make you taste such shame you'll want to kill yourself! "
In a voice that seemed to have lost all reasoning, Kagura ordered:
"Yagami --- use your wind blades and tear off that girl's clothes and leave her naked! "
"Hmmmm ---- something for which she can request restitution is a bit......That kimono is very expensive, right? "
In a spiritless tone, Kazuma rejected the employer's demand.
With a gaze meant to petrify him on the spot, Kagura glared at Kazuma but of course, this man wouldn't change his attitude because of
that.
"..........Certainly, that kimono is magnificent. If absolutely doesn't suit such a vulgar Enjutsu-shi woman. "
Unwillingly, Kagura withdrew her order. While moving her hands the same way a magician would, she seemed to take out an amulet from thin
air. But----
"By the way, there are eight guards in the surroundings. There are no blind spots. "
Kazuma knitted his eyebrows in discomfort, as if saying they will definitely be exposed if she throws the charm.
"Yagami, can you create another barrier like the one concealing us right now? "
"Yes"
At present, around Kazuma and Kaguya was placed a barrier that was not only sound-proof but also had a transparent effect.
By manipulating the density of the atmosphere and changing the light refractive index, they couldn't be seen from outside the barrier.
To make another one just like it was no big deal for someone like him.
"Then, take this amulet and---- hmmm, but then we won't be able to see them, right? "
"Of course. "
"That's troublesome. Then I won't be able skillfully throw it. "
Seeing Kaguya's Can't you do something about it? look, Kazuma carelessly replied.
"If you specify a place, I can send it by wind. "
"Well, that's very smart of you Yagami. "
Praising her temporary servant, Kaguya-sama demonstrated her generosity.
"Nevertheless, you seem surprisingly excellent, huh? I had absolutely no hope for a Fuujutsu-shi born from an Enjutsu-shi family. Does
this mean the Kannagis are starting to lose their power? "
"Perhaps, was that supposed to be a praise? "
Taking the charm from Kaguya who, as usual was her naturally impolite self, Kazuma looked below.
And while looking at Ayano and Takaaki walking really close together with an unreadable emotion----
"Where? "
"A little forward from them, at the underbrush on the girl's right side. "
In accordance with Ojou-sama's matter of course tone of command, Kazuma sent the charm with a snap of his wrist.
It rode upon the wind, danced in midair and disappeared as if melting into thin air.
"Done. "
At the same time with Kazuma's words, Kagura made a one hand seal and murmured something inside her mouth.
And, the amulet suddenly made an appearance, turned into a small snake and coiled around Ayano's leg.
"-----Kyaaa!? "
Being tripped, Ayano's posture was destroyed. At that critical moment Kaguya made the snake jump in a big way.
Naturally, her foot pulled even more, Ayano's body was slanted, making her unable to control it by herself.
"Well, well, remember the shame of falling on the ground flat on your face, Kannagi Ayano! Onii-sama will definitely despise a careless
person like you who cannot arrange the hem of her kimono properly! "
Kaguya let out a sonorous, villain laughter. Compared with her words, the prank was petty but ---- well, it was maybe enough for her
purpose.
Thus, according to Kaguya's expectation, Ayano plunged deeply with her face forward. -----But, not towards the ground but right in
Takaaki's chest.
Noticing an unusual phenomenon Takaaki quickly went around and stood in front of her and embraced her body about to collapse.
"Wha----!?"
"Hoo---"
The outcome the exact opposite of her purpose, Kaguya trembled with surprise and rage while Kazuma admired Takaaki's splendid body
movement.
Without noticing their gaze, Ayano and Takaaki embraced each other with fairly good vibes.
"----Kyaaa!? "
Suddenly, her leg entangled with a cord-like object, Ayano let out a confused scream.
Her body falling forward. Her crumbled balance impossible to reorganize, she prepared herself for the fall.
Bapuuh
But the shock of the crash was unexpectedly soft. Vaguely guessing the situation, she raised her face.
At point blank range, the face of a man showing concern was overlooking hers.
"Ayano-san, are you alright? "
"Aah, yes. Thank you very much. "
Answering with a smiling face meant to make him relived, Ayano too replied with a smile.
Thanking him once more and separating their bodies, Ayano looked at her feet.
"Is something the matter? "
"Right now, I had the feeling a cord of some sort tangled my feet. "
Of course, such an object was nowhere to be seen.
"It must have been my imagination. I have shown you something very clumsy. "
"No, far from it. If Ayano-san says so, it must be the truth. This appears to be a very pretty garden but the maintenance seems
unexpectedly lacking. "
Showing a weak smile, Ayano modestly laughed.
"I would feel sorry for the gardener who has to cover for my own blunder. You can laugh at such a disgraceful girl. "
"How unthinkable! To laugh at you! "
Saying so with an earnest face, Takaaki suddenly closed his eyes playfully.
"And to be frank, there was some side benefit just now. If you are so inclined, please fall down some more. Because I'll always be there
to catch you. "
"Ooh, those lines are sexual harassment, you know? ", replied Ayano in the same jest-like manner of speaking.
And, after shortly starring at each other, they simultaneously burst into laughter.
"Well, leaving jokes aside, do you want to continue this Omiai a little more? "
"Yes, with pleasure. "
With a cloudless smiling face, Ayano accepted Takaaki's proposal.
"..........Kuuuu..............Guuuh.......girl........."
"............"
As if adverting his eyes from the real-time transformation of a beautiful woman into a she-devil Kazuma turned his gaze on the spectacle
beneath.
What he saw was a couple walking side by side, the figures of Ayano and Takaaki.
But that atmosphere with their bodies very close and joined hands was obviously much more intimate than a few minutes ago.
The reason for that was no other than the woman throwing a fit of anger next to Kazuma.
Making Ayano embarrassed and tearing apart those two's relationship, using Omioudou Jutsu in such a petty way, none other but
Tsuchimikado Kagura.
But, no matter how many times she tried to discredit Ayano, since Takaaki was always backing her up, she managed to escape all
difficulties.
That outcome----
"How to say this, each time you try, the distance between those two gets less and less. Is that what you're really aiming for? "
"That's........not possible.......... ", replied Kagura in a muffled voice.
Although she didn't yell in a shrill voice, she displayed even less composure, bringing about an explosive situation.
".......you.....you bitch.......just because I was going easy on you......."
"You didn't, you didn't. How about looking in the mirror? "
"Shut up! ", Kaguya ordered with the look of a jealous horned demoness.
And then, she glared at Ayano walking underneath her bloodshot eyes and showed a smile that would make even demons run.
"Fine with me........if you won't step aside no matter what, I will answer in a suitable way...........don't resent me, all right? "
While whispering those words in a cold voice, she took out a short sword.
The fierce power dwelling within made Kazuma's face cramp.
".....Oi, what is that? "
"The Tsuchimikado have have two forms of divination that are so powerful even we can't control them. This is the sealed one. It's name is ---- Goki"
"---Wait! ", shouted Kazuma with a changed expression.
"Do you mean that Goki!? The divination form used by Senmei!? Why would you release something you cannot control!? It will turn into
a horrible tragedy! "
Abe Senmei, the millennial old name that was still spoken of today among Omioudou.
Using divination forms he enslaved two demons, Zenki and Goki.
Since it became the most famous divination form in Japan, as expected it was on a totally different level than the average magic tricks,
similar to that of a god.
"It will be fine", declared Kaguya unusually flat.
"I cannot use it as an agent but our ancestor, Master Senmei left one order to Goki for the sake of it's descendants. To answer and
fulfill seven requests of the descendants of the Tsuchimikado. "
"Is there a precedent? "
"Three requests up until now. It's effectiveness and power are already approved. There are no problems. "
".........if possible I would like proof of it's safety. "
Kazuma's cough who looked more like a complaint, did not seem to reach the ears of the woman mad with jealousy.
"In the name of Master Senmei, come forth Goki. Crush until no bone is left that whore who did wrong to the Tsuchimikado. "
With that loud scream, Kaguya unsheathed the dagger. The light shining on the naked sword scattered with enormous power.
And that power started to swell up taking shape in one precise place in the garden.
"Waaah, it was the real deal, huh"
Before Kazuma's eyes grumbling so, looking unpleased, one demon manifested.
With a magnificent stature of more than three meters and a boorish build like it was chipped from stone.
A long cylindrical horn sprouted from it's forehead and it glared and the sky, giving off a ominous light from it's deep crimson eyes.
"Wh- what!? "
"this is------! "
Both Ayano and Takaaki shouted in surprise as Goki's tremendous power slapped into them, but contrary to the expectation-----
"Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa"
Together with a roar that shook the ground, it started to mow down the trees in the garden.
"-------Ara? "
"Hey", retorted Kazuma to Kaguya who looked slightly doubtful.
"The fact that you don't seem able to control it, it's all my imagination, right? "
"This is odd. It wasn't supposed to be like this. "
"This is not the time and place to be so easygoing, you know? Don't you understand what's causing this? "
"I cannot guess. I don't think I made some mistake with the transmission. "
Kazuma had the same opinion. There was no need to leave a monster-class like divination form to your successors, if they were incapable
of controlling it at the critical moment. Senmei couldn't have posibly wanted the downfall of the Tsuchimikado, right?
"Then, is there some other cause? What's this? "
He investigated the surroundings, lending an ear to the sound of the wind, without missing anything abnormal----
"------Aah? "
He suddenly noticed it. This Ryoutei was surrounded by a weird 『place』.
Something that was and wasn't a barrier, an instable, imperfect, distorted 『place』.
"What is this? "
Once more, Kazuma carefully examined the surroundings. The countless number of amulets stretched around the inn composed the 『place』.
Judging from the type of charms, it was safe to say this was some Onmyoudou Jutsu but ---- even from the point of view of an outsider
like Kazuma, it was clear the arrangement of amulets was incoherent.
"What the heck is this? "
Kazuma was dumbfounded at the irresponsible, amateur-like work.
He even seriously considered the absolutely unlikely possibility the Jutsushi was drunk for a second.
But he did not know.
That Taiichirou, who sneaked in quicker, shifted the placement of charms in accordance with Yuukari's instructions. And that the Jutsu
didn't become invalid like it normally would but took a form it normally couldn't, warping it's effect.
The chain of accident and coincidence brought about an abnormal effect nobody was expecting.
"Did you find something? "
In reply to Kagura's question, Kazuma explained his deduction.
Kagura made a shocked expression when she heard this but she shook her head, frowning.
"No way, that is impossible. It's different from a divination form, Goki is high rank being similar to a god. For it to go mad because of
a human Jutsu..."
"Maybe not Goki himself but isn't he being controlled by a millennium old order? If it's been that long there may be bugs in it. "
The one who ordered Goki was Abe Senmei, meaning Tsuchimikado's ancestor. The 『place』 was now being distorted by the same Tsuchimikado
Jutsu so the possibility of making it run wild was not just a possibility but almost a certainty.
"................."
In stead of a very fast denial, Kagura was silent. Meaning she had no way to refute Kazuma's argument.
"How do you seal that thing? "
Once more, Kagura didn't reply. The meaning of that silence was clear.
"Then, there's no way around it. I'll have to kill it. "
"Waah--- that is absolutely impossible! That's not something a human can stand against! "
"I'm not telling you to help. Aah, give me that. "
Kazuma plundered the blade where Goki was sealed in the scabbard. But for some reason the blade couldn't get in.
"------Hmm"
Sticking the blade and the scabbard in the belt of his trousers, Kazuma jumped down from the roof totally unenthusiastic.
"Aaah, enough already! What am I supposed to do about this!? "
While fighting against Goki on a rampage, Ayano screamed unable to bear it any longer.
If she could she would have escaped from here but right now that was impossible.
Because Juugo was inside the Ryoutei.
It was possible he already evacuated but since she could not confirm it, she had no choice but to deal with this thing.
Meaning that in order to distract Goki from the Ryoutei, she had to fight with him very carefully in order for both their attacks never
to face the ryoutei's direction.
What's more, the opponent was a monster whose name was passed down through history. For Ayano by herself, the load was a bit too heavy.
Accurately, she wasn't exactly alone, Takaaki was doing something that resembled protecting her back behind her ----- but honestly, he
wasn't very helpful.
But that was only to be expected.
She didn't have the time to listen to the full story but Ayano understood that was something like Tsuchimikado's final weapon.
And since Takaaki couldn't use a Jutsu higher than that, he was unable to oppose Goki.
".....Kuuh.....but......if this goes on........"
While handling an attack resembling a windstorm, Ayano grumbled in her heart.
This kind of enemy was extraordinary even under normal circumstances and yet, right now the constraints were too many. As it is, she will
certainly be pressed and defeated.
"If I could have at least five seconds......."
She needed 『time』 to accumulate power --- she sincerely thought so but that was the same with letting Takaaki die.
No matter how much his side was to blame for this, she couldn't not ask this of him.
But, at that time.
"Eeh-----?"
The wind gently formed swirls and blew through her hair as if playing with it.
Instantly, Ayano opened her eyes wide, and---- plunged in.
"Ayano-san! Don't be rash! "
Shouldering Enraiha and with a posture obviously preparing for a big move, Takaaki shouted at Ayano with a voice close to screaming.
In a panic he rushed to her but he didn't get there in time.
And just like he feared, Goki rushed towards Ayano, standing still. She wanted five seconds to amass power but she wasn't even allowed
one-----
Zaan!
The second that strong arm was about to swing downward, countless wind blades descended from the skies and ripped it's entire body.
Goki was in anguish as it's body fluids and shrieks scattered.
Each wound was superficial by itself and he was still alive but this was already a fatal wound.
Those gashes were not meant to chop him up, their purpose was to give Ayano the 『time』 she wanted.
Opening her eyes wide, Ayano grasped Enraiha with force.
The flames released from the blade increased their calorific value explosively.
Putting her entire strength behind it, she swung downward the edge clad in flames.
The enemy is before her eyes. There's no need to take aim-------
"Haaaaaaaahh! "
The gushing out golden plasma instantly set aflame Goki's large build.
"--------------------------------------------------!!"
Wrapped in golden flames, Goki shrieked looking up at the sky. But even that scream was engulfed in the blaze, unable to make the air
vibrate.
And to make double sure, once again, wind blades rained from the sky.
A hundred or more blades, this time aiming for the kill.
The demon's body changed into a flaming puppet was instantly torn to pieces, without any resistance.
And then----
"Yo"
Together with a monotonous voice, one man landed on top of Goki's wreckage. Using the force of the landing he stabbed the demon's
cranium, who barely managed to retain it's original shape, with the dagger he held.
The demon's body that was burning a moment ago was absorbed by the dagger and disappeared.
"Well, even though it's a legendary divination form, if you take it by surprise, it amounts to this much. "
Weakly laughing, the man --- Kazuma, put the blade in the scabbard.
A clear sound resounded signaling the end of the battle.
"----So, why are you here? "
Her hands on her hips, Ayano glared at the man who appeared suddenly and snatched the most delicious part.
"Aah? "
Unexpectedly, Kazuma frowned.
He looked at the place where Takaaki was standing, a bit separated, with a 『Oh, you didn't tell her? 』 look.
But after Takaaki sent his way a glance full of hostility, he flatly ignored Kazuma's existence.
A cold air floated between them.
Looking at the both of them, Ayano asked curiously.
"Did something happen? "
"Don't mind it. It's over already"
Lightly warding off Ayano's question, Kazuma told her as if he just remembered.
"By the way, Soshu seems to be unharmed. "
The result of Ayano's hard fighting was that the building had insignificant damage compared to the garden.
Even if he would have remained inside, in this case there was no problem.
Next, he looked on top of the building. Kagura was already gone.
She seemed to have fled fearing the consequences of her actions.
But that did not matter to him.
Who will be the one to take responsibility for this was something for the Kannagi and the Tsuchimikado to sort between themselves.
If she would even try to evade paying him the rest of the money he will send her a proper thank you note, else it didn't matter to
him one bit whether she ran to the edge of the world or not.
What is most important was that after the ringleader ran from this place, the probability of some other strife waiting to happen was
almost zero.
Recognizing this, Kazuma finally lowered his guard and turned to Ayano.
"You did very well on your own, you were great"
At the 「on your own』 part Takaaki glared at him full of thirst for blood but he perfectly ignored him.
Praising Ayano with unusual candor, he even gently brushed her head but she roughly brushed off his hand, seeming not to like it.
"Don't pat my head, I'm not a child! "
"Hmm? Then you're fine with a more adult-oriented interaction? Something like this? "
"Ughyaaaa"
Embraced closely without warning, bright red, Ayano screamed in a strange voice.
While enjoying her reaction, Kazuma went even further.
"Then, after this, should I give you a blessing kiss? "
"Noooooooo! Let go of meeeeeee! "
Ayano squirmed. But obviously, Kazuma did not let go.
"Hey, you"
Seeing that sexual harassment turning to sexual assault, since he was a gentleman, Takaaki tried to intervene but his feet stopped after
just one step.
He recalled Ayano reaction when she was with him.
He embraced her and openly tried to court her without hiding his favor and Ayano did not reject him, nor did she feel bashful but came in
contact with him with a smiling face.
Comparing that with how she was now----
"I'm beaten......"
He saw he clearly misunderstood.
Perhaps, even if he would have embraced her in that way she would not get angry like she did right now and would perhaps rebuke him with
a soft smile.
But that meant she would not let her guard down around him, rather-----
"You, Yagami-kun"
"Aaah"
Called out by Takaaki, Kazuma shifted his attention on him looking annoyed.
Ayano too, still being embraced, looked over her shoulder.
Faced with both their gaze, Takaaki proudly named himself.
"First, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Tsuchimikado Takaaki. Today I had a formal marriage meeting with Ayano-san and will be
the person that will go out with Ayano-san from now on. "
"-------Hohou? "
Kazuma clearly understood Takaaki's challenging words.
Aiming a ferocious smile at the enemy who clearly didn't know his place, as if displaying it, he embraced Ayano even more strongly.
"That's fine with me"
"..................."
『He's the worst』 - Takaaki remembered Ayano's assessment about Kazuma's character.
It seems they weren't her real feelings regarding him but the plain truth about him --- right now he was absolutely convinced of that.
"Since it's clear we will meet again, it's nice to meet you, I suppose, because that's the polite way to say it"
"I have no problem with never meeting you again though"
Exchanging an unfavorable gaze, they completed their first meeting greeting.
From that moment, the fight for Ayano started --- but we're not yet sure.
In a traditional Japanese restaurant proud of its hundred years old history located in the metropolitan area, Kannagi Ayano was staring
at the man seated in front of her, studying his face without any particular intention.
He was in the first half of his twenties, a very handsome young man. He was approximately 180 centimeters tall.
He was slender but his body was covered in muscle.
From what she observed from his body movements, his Taiju-tsu seemed pretty strong.
Even more, she heard he was an excellent Jutsushi.
That was, in short, Ayano's marriage partner, Tsuchimikado Takaaki.
She couldn't find any defect. One of those rare few men all the others curse at.
At the very least, there is no mistake that the majority of women would be ecstatic at fortuitously meeting such a high quality man at a marriage interview.
But----
Returning a small forced smile at the man who, sensing her gaze, showed her a very refreshing smile, Ayano casually averted her eyes.
And then, just as meaningless, she let her gaze wandering around again.
"I wish this would finish already......."
Even though it had just begun, Ayano was already having such thoughts.
From the start, the reason she was proactive about the Omiai were her spiteful words towards Kazuma.
But since her anger was at an usual intensity, obviously it couldn't have lasted this long.
Furthermore, although Ayano's actions and personality was aggressive she was very child-like when it came to love related matters.
Which means she was at the age she was viewing love and marriage through a rosy filter.
For someone like her, events like marriage interviews were not a prospect she would get enthusiastic about.
Therefore, today's Omiai was nothing but a job she tolerated because of her sense of obligation.
"Is Ayano-san feeling somewhat tense? "
Ignorant of Ayano's feelings, the middle-aged woman acting as a mediator, frequently brought up the matter.
Showing a forced smile, Ayano replied in a few words.
"Aah, yes, a little. This is my first time after all"
"Well, how innocent. But, there is nothing you need to worry about. Everyone has a first time"
"........thank you very much"
After a few moments of silence, Ayano calmly bowed. At the same time, doing it in such a way not to be seen, she glared at the laughing
Juugo, sitting close by.
But it was reasonable for the mediator to say such things.
Right now, Ayano was dressed in a gorgeous long sleeve kimono, her hair was carefully arranged, indeed the personification of a gentle,
secluded young woman.
Someone seeing her right now would have a hard time imagining her habitual liveliness, liveliness being an awfully favorable expression
---- or rather, it was impossible.
Just by observing, both Takaaki and his also present parents were looking at her with faces full of smiles.
"Eee, eeeehhhh.....what should I do?"
As if helping Ayano was unintentionally became troubled, a voice called out from the hallway.
It seems like the waitress brought the cuisine.
Relived by the sudden halt of the conversation, Ayano shifted her eyes towards the brought in dishes.
She couldn't possibly enjoy the very aesthetically pleasing gourmet meal now----
"Whaaa-----?"
It was a miraculous good fortune that her surprised voice didn't come out. Or rather, because the shock was too strong, her voice
couldn't possibly come out.
Doubting her own eyes, Ayano stared at the waitress.
A composed figure dressed in kimono, not attracting anyone's attention but with a naturally smiling face favored by customers.
Her shoulder length wavy hair was pulled in a bun but she still looked soft, a face Ayano knew very well that should have been impossible
to see here.
This was without a doubt Shinomiya Yuukari.
"Wah...why are you...."
With a sidelong glance towards the silent Ayano, standing there in blank amazement, Yuukari safely finished setting the table.
And then, just before leaving she looked at Ayano.
Although only Ayano saw it, there is no mistake, she was smiling.
"Ufufufu, are you surprised? "
As if hearing those words aloud, Ayano had a moment of vertigo.
After that, the Omiai went on without any problems. Since then Yuukari didn't appear again and there was no indication that anything out
of ordinary was going to happen.
But Ayano knew better. That woman will do something. Even now, she's definitely peeking in the room. And there is no mistake she's also
recording this.
In short, because of Yuukari she will have to destroy all evidence about Omiai.
While looking like she was having a calm, gentle chat, in fact Ayano was more tense now than when she was facing Youmas.
At that precise moment, the mediator looked at both Ayano and Takaaki and said with a smiling face.
"This Royutei is famous for it's beautiful garden. Will the two of you like to take a stroll? "
This was a standard development for an Omiai. Obviously there was no reason to refuse.
"-----Yes"
With a lovely smile Ayano took Takaaki's extended hand.
"Aah, I found another one"
Hiiragi Taiichirou, wearing a very thick glove ripped of another charm glued to a tree. And he pasted it on another nearby tree, this
time upside down.
The charm had no glue on it but fore some reason it stuck to the tree very tightly.
"Yes, one more. ---But even so, where did that girl find such an item? "
Looking amazed, Taiichirou was looking at the glove in his right hand.
『the anti magical glove』 -- that's what she called it.
And just like its name, it was able to slightly nullify certain magical objects.
Everything he did was according to her guidance.
She was the one who located and infiltrated the Ryoutei by becoming a waitress there and also the one who let him in.
And the one who handed him this magical item, something normal people couldn't get their hands on.
"Shinomiya Senpai --- just what kind of girl is she? "
She was a completely mysterious girl. But that didn't matter now.
Because right now Taiichirou had a mission he needs to complete no matter what.
"Those Tsuchimikado people seem to scheme something"
Yuukari whispered so very quietly, anticipating Taiichirou's infiltration. And then she enumerated some suspicious points.
Although they especially reserved the Ryoutei, people were prohibited on entering it that day. Here and there in the garden there was a
web of placed charms, surrounding the building.
And inside and outside this site more than thirty Omiouji were guarding the inn.
"There's is no need for such a strong defense if it's just an Omiai. I'm sure they're planning something really bad. Something like
manipulate Ayano-chan's heart and forcibly begin the marriage! "
That was forcing the bound of logic. Or rather, she was willingly distorting it.
But with that speech, she persuaded Taiichirou who firmly believed in her reasoning. And after handing him that glove, she showed him how to disturb the curse.
"This may be a very dangerous task. ---- But right now Hiiragi-kun is the only one who can protect Ayano-chan. Please, help her out! "
"Yes! Leave it to me! "
Taiichirou strongly agreed without a second of hesitation.
There's no need to say it but Tsuchimikado's excessive defense was an express preparation against Kazuma's declaration of attack.
The laid out charms were only a barrier sensing trespassers.
But without knowing any of that, Yuukari involved Taiichirou who was fighting alone, ignoring the peril, all for Ayano-chan.
But, he was an amateur after all.
Up until now his luck was good, after finding another charm, the moment he rushed towards it----
"Don't move"
A cold voice stopped Taiichirou in his tracks.
"Eeh....aah, ano....."
"Who are you, bastard? "
"I- I am ......working here"
"Don't lie"
The man easily rejected Taiichirou's frantic explanation.
"I already confirmed the faces of all people working here today. I did not see you. "
"W- well...."
"Turn around. Slowly. "
"............."
While his heart seemed to want to jump out of his chest because of too much fear, excitement and tension, Taiichirou was desperately
trying to think of some way plan to break out of this situation.
But obviously someone like Taiichirou, a simple student, had no brilliant plan to get out of this.
If he would have been able to collect himself a little bit, surely he would see that too but right now he wasn't calm by any means.
Rather, inside his head, the Tsuchimikado practitioners were the pawns of evil that were trying to surround Ayano with some evil
magic. ------ Therefore.
"Uuu......Uuuuuuuaaaaaaaaaaahghhhh!"
While the boy in a frenzy was screaming in a voice turned inside out, he took a swing at the man behind.
This turned out to be another unhappy thing because that man turned out to be not a very good practitioner.
And because he was self-conscious about it he used the greatest amount of power he could muster against the boy.
If he would have tried to apprehend him by force, it would have ended then and there.
The man took out an amulet from his breast pocket. But since he was inexperienced, the Jutsu activation sequence was slow.
Slow enough for the desperate boy to reach him with his hand.
All these factors turned into one conclusion.
By chance, or maybe some of his reasoning was still left, right before the curse was thrown, Taiichirou caught it in his right hand ---
the one with the anti-magic glove.
Of course, that was a very foolish and reckless action. Even leaving out the fact that Yuukari was a high-school girl, the magic tools a
civilian could obtain had no power to stop an amulet that was already activated.
But, absolutely unintentional --- the man's Jutsu activated in a form bad for both of them.
"Ayano-san, are you bored? "
"Eeh? -------No, I'm really enjoyed"
Ayano replied to Takaaki's question with a smiling face. It was by no means a pretense.
The atmosphere now was exceedingly pleasant, compared with the usual Omiai atmosphere.
The existence of the man walking next to her was not unpleasant.
Conversation topics were plenty, he had a perfect gentleman behavior and he was smoothly taking the stance she most wanted.
Therefore, right now Ayano was enjoying her conversation with Takaaki and the garden stroll from the bottom of her heart.
"I an glad. Because I thought it obvious Ayano-san would find this unpleasant. "
"-----Why is that? "
"Why you ask, although you are only sixteen you had to have this Omiai because of an arrangement with an old household so I wondered if
you will be able to stomach it. Besides, I heard you had a lover....."
Suddenly feeling a lethal level thirst to kill, Takaaki suddenly interrupted his words and put himself on guard.
But the thirst for blood instantly vanished, and the atmosphere that turned to lead promptly recovered it's normal state.
"Did something happen? "
"Aah, no.....for a moment I thought I sensed a terrible thirst for blood from somewhere. "
"Who knows, I did not feel anything. -----Aah, and then? "
"What do you mean? "
"If the person Takaaki-san spoke of as my lover refers perhaps to Yagami Kazuma, that is an unfounded rumor and complete nonsense. ",
declared Ayano smiling.
"Is that so? "
"Yes. I spend a lot of time with him because of work but that is all there is. Yes, really. Not even a milligram more that that exists. "
".....Is, is that so? "
Feeling for some reason a bizarre pressure from those words spoken with a smiling face, Takaaki agreed with a subtly stiff face.
But, immediately pulling himself together-----
"So, does that mean I can have a little bit of hope? "
"------Hearing something like that so suddenly makes me embarrassed. "
Somewhat casting her eyes downwards, Ayano replied in confusion.
Right-away, Takaaki smoothly changed his previous remarks.
"You are right, I am rushing it. Please forgive me. "
"No, your feeling make me happy. ", replied Ayano sincerely.
She didn't have a lot of opportunities of coming into contact with a composed adult male, giving off a different feeling than the greedy
boys her age.
And receiving such open courtesy from that kind of companion, honestly, it didn't feel bad at all.
"If you say so, I am happy too. But, from your expression, am I to understand Ayano-san doesn't have a high opinion about the man called
Yagami? "
"Yes, he's the worst. "
Takaaki seemed quite surprised hearing such merciless words.
"The worst, you say? "
"Yes. As a Fuujutsu-shi he is first-class but beside that, his character is twisted, a shark towards money, calmly abandons people in
trouble and feels no shame about it ---- if I were to enumerate his defects, I ccould go on until tomorrow morning. "
"That's a pretty awful man. Although just business related, it must be really tough on you to have to cooperate with such a man. "
"Something like that.........."
When Ayano was bracing herself to abuse Kazuma even more, at that time---
Suddenly, from the grove of trees inside the garden the sound of an explosion reverberated.
Immediately after that continuous dull sound could be heard, while it cleared away all trees in it's path, 『something』 swiftly turned
towards them.
"..............."
Ayano immediately put herself on guard. As if protecting her, Takaaki took one step forward.
Already a few sheets of charms were held between his fingertips.
『Something』 with so much speed it seemed to ride a strong wind.
It's limbs strongly kicked the ground and without easing up the speed, it threw itself upon Takaaki. But----
"Gyaaah! "
Repelled by the barrier put around Takaaki, it was blown off as if it was hit by a car.
".........what, is this thing? "
Puzzled, but without showing any opening, Takaaki murmured.
That's right, although it ran towards them on four legs like a beast, it's outward appearance looked human.
But it's face was one Ayano saw often. Although he seemed possessed by something strange.
"....Hiiragi-kun? "
"Do you know him? "
Catching up that murmur, Taiichirou asked in a surprised tone.
"He's a junior from my school. But why----"
is he here was she trying to express while pinning down both her temples as if trying to bear a headache.
There were no whys though, it was all that woman's scheme.
"Yuukari........what did you do? "
"Ayano-san? "
"-----No, I'm fine. Anyway, I'll take care of him. "
"What a thing to say, letting a lady fight while I'm hiding behind. I'll be the one to protect you. "
Hearing Takaaki's proud proclamation, Ayano quietly looked up to him.
"I didn't think I wanted to be protected though--------"
She was not dissatisfied that Takaaki would protect her. It didn't matter who the man that would try to protect her was.
She simply did not desire for a guardian that would shelter her from any possible dangers.
It was essential they both fight together, that he was a partner worthy on entrusting her back to him.
Takaaki seemed to accurately read Ayano's thoughts. Staring st her as if in admiration, he shrewdly corrected himself.
"Then, let me look better in front of you. "
Hearing those words, Ayano began to smile broadly.
She did not hate this type of person who could display this kind of tact.
Not turning his words into sarcasm but purposefully speaking in such an uncool way made a good impression on her.
Cheerfully, Ayano conceded the highlight scene.
"If you are willing to say so much, I am leaving it to you. However, since he is sort of my acquittance please leave no after effects. "
"Do not worry. This is an Omiouji's field of expertise. I will show you a perfect purification. "
Bowing confidently, Takaaki turned around to Taiichirou. And then, as if trying to make sure of something he let out a small murmur, his eyes somewhat narrow.
"As I thought ---- but why did this happen? "
"What's the matter? "
"The thing that's possessing him, resembles a form of divination used by Kuzuragi's --- one of my father's subordinates. I am fairly sure
it's the same. "
".......You mean, that Kuzuragi-san was the one who made him possessed? "
"Well, unexpectedly, I feel no control from him. Besides there's no reason for him to do this. ", replied Takaaki in a bewildered tone.
Still, he could not ascertain what 『circumstance』 would allow for Taiichirou to become crushed under a divination charm.
A specialist like himself could not imagine there are people with such reckless behavior.
It was the same foolish move done by someone who would remove the safety pin from a hand grenade and grasp it.
"I have no idea how it became like this, but since he is Ayano-san's friend I won't be rough. I'll exorcise you gently so please feel at
peace, boy. "
Pushing out before his eyes the hand with the set up amulet, Takaaki showed a daring smile. His teeth were shining white in the sunlight.
And at the same time.
Kazuma and Kaguya were looking down at the fight between Takaaki and Taiichirou from the Ryoutei's rooftop.
"Still, this is odd. Who would have thought that an incident would happen without having to intervene myself. Besides, why isn't there a
barrier spread around this place? "
Kazuma grumbled dissatisfied they didn't heed his warning.
If they would have arrived a little bit earlier a showy entrance could be depended upon but since Taiichirou already interfered and the
amulets composing the barrier were disordered, the barrier already lost it's function.
But because of that, Kazuma was able to enter the perimeter without anyone noticing it.
And then concerning the struggle beneath his eyes, as expected of Tsuchimikado's direct descendant, he was able to display a very quick
exorcism.
While looking down without any particular intention at Ayano's smiling face that seemed to give praise to that skill, Kazuma asked his
employer.
"So, what are you going to do from now on? "
"T- that girl, she's getting too close to Onii-sama! How shameless! I won't allow it anymore! In order to never be able to face Onii-sama
again, I'll make you taste such shame you'll want to kill yourself! "
In a voice that seemed to have lost all reasoning, Kagura ordered:
"Yagami --- use your wind blades and tear off that girl's clothes and leave her naked! "
"Hmmmm ---- something for which she can request restitution is a bit......That kimono is very expensive, right? "
In a spiritless tone, Kazuma rejected the employer's demand.
With a gaze meant to petrify him on the spot, Kagura glared at Kazuma but of course, this man wouldn't change his attitude because of
that.
"..........Certainly, that kimono is magnificent. If absolutely doesn't suit such a vulgar Enjutsu-shi woman. "
Unwillingly, Kagura withdrew her order. While moving her hands the same way a magician would, she seemed to take out an amulet from thin
air. But----
"By the way, there are eight guards in the surroundings. There are no blind spots. "
Kazuma knitted his eyebrows in discomfort, as if saying they will definitely be exposed if she throws the charm.
"Yagami, can you create another barrier like the one concealing us right now? "
"Yes"
At present, around Kazuma and Kaguya was placed a barrier that was not only sound-proof but also had a transparent effect.
By manipulating the density of the atmosphere and changing the light refractive index, they couldn't be seen from outside the barrier.
To make another one just like it was no big deal for someone like him.
"Then, take this amulet and---- hmmm, but then we won't be able to see them, right? "
"Of course. "
"That's troublesome. Then I won't be able skillfully throw it. "
Seeing Kaguya's Can't you do something about it? look, Kazuma carelessly replied.
"If you specify a place, I can send it by wind. "
"Well, that's very smart of you Yagami. "
Praising her temporary servant, Kaguya-sama demonstrated her generosity.
"Nevertheless, you seem surprisingly excellent, huh? I had absolutely no hope for a Fuujutsu-shi born from an Enjutsu-shi family. Does
this mean the Kannagis are starting to lose their power? "
"Perhaps, was that supposed to be a praise? "
Taking the charm from Kaguya who, as usual was her naturally impolite self, Kazuma looked below.
And while looking at Ayano and Takaaki walking really close together with an unreadable emotion----
"Where? "
"A little forward from them, at the underbrush on the girl's right side. "
In accordance with Ojou-sama's matter of course tone of command, Kazuma sent the charm with a snap of his wrist.
It rode upon the wind, danced in midair and disappeared as if melting into thin air.
"Done. "
At the same time with Kazuma's words, Kagura made a one hand seal and murmured something inside her mouth.
And, the amulet suddenly made an appearance, turned into a small snake and coiled around Ayano's leg.
"-----Kyaaa!? "
Being tripped, Ayano's posture was destroyed. At that critical moment Kaguya made the snake jump in a big way.
Naturally, her foot pulled even more, Ayano's body was slanted, making her unable to control it by herself.
"Well, well, remember the shame of falling on the ground flat on your face, Kannagi Ayano! Onii-sama will definitely despise a careless
person like you who cannot arrange the hem of her kimono properly! "
Kaguya let out a sonorous, villain laughter. Compared with her words, the prank was petty but ---- well, it was maybe enough for her
purpose.
Thus, according to Kaguya's expectation, Ayano plunged deeply with her face forward. -----But, not towards the ground but right in
Takaaki's chest.
Noticing an unusual phenomenon Takaaki quickly went around and stood in front of her and embraced her body about to collapse.
"Wha----!?"
"Hoo---"
The outcome the exact opposite of her purpose, Kaguya trembled with surprise and rage while Kazuma admired Takaaki's splendid body
movement.
Without noticing their gaze, Ayano and Takaaki embraced each other with fairly good vibes.
"----Kyaaa!? "
Suddenly, her leg entangled with a cord-like object, Ayano let out a confused scream.
Her body falling forward. Her crumbled balance impossible to reorganize, she prepared herself for the fall.
Bapuuh
But the shock of the crash was unexpectedly soft. Vaguely guessing the situation, she raised her face.
At point blank range, the face of a man showing concern was overlooking hers.
"Ayano-san, are you alright? "
"Aah, yes. Thank you very much. "
Answering with a smiling face meant to make him relived, Ayano too replied with a smile.
Thanking him once more and separating their bodies, Ayano looked at her feet.
"Is something the matter? "
"Right now, I had the feeling a cord of some sort tangled my feet. "
Of course, such an object was nowhere to be seen.
"It must have been my imagination. I have shown you something very clumsy. "
"No, far from it. If Ayano-san says so, it must be the truth. This appears to be a very pretty garden but the maintenance seems
unexpectedly lacking. "
Showing a weak smile, Ayano modestly laughed.
"I would feel sorry for the gardener who has to cover for my own blunder. You can laugh at such a disgraceful girl. "
"How unthinkable! To laugh at you! "
Saying so with an earnest face, Takaaki suddenly closed his eyes playfully.
"And to be frank, there was some side benefit just now. If you are so inclined, please fall down some more. Because I'll always be there
to catch you. "
"Ooh, those lines are sexual harassment, you know? ", replied Ayano in the same jest-like manner of speaking.
And, after shortly starring at each other, they simultaneously burst into laughter.
"Well, leaving jokes aside, do you want to continue this Omiai a little more? "
"Yes, with pleasure. "
With a cloudless smiling face, Ayano accepted Takaaki's proposal.
"..........Kuuuu..............Guuuh.......girl........."
"............"
As if adverting his eyes from the real-time transformation of a beautiful woman into a she-devil Kazuma turned his gaze on the spectacle
beneath.
What he saw was a couple walking side by side, the figures of Ayano and Takaaki.
But that atmosphere with their bodies very close and joined hands was obviously much more intimate than a few minutes ago.
The reason for that was no other than the woman throwing a fit of anger next to Kazuma.
Making Ayano embarrassed and tearing apart those two's relationship, using Omioudou Jutsu in such a petty way, none other but
Tsuchimikado Kagura.
But, no matter how many times she tried to discredit Ayano, since Takaaki was always backing her up, she managed to escape all
difficulties.
That outcome----
"How to say this, each time you try, the distance between those two gets less and less. Is that what you're really aiming for? "
"That's........not possible.......... ", replied Kagura in a muffled voice.
Although she didn't yell in a shrill voice, she displayed even less composure, bringing about an explosive situation.
".......you.....you bitch.......just because I was going easy on you......."
"You didn't, you didn't. How about looking in the mirror? "
"Shut up! ", Kaguya ordered with the look of a jealous horned demoness.
And then, she glared at Ayano walking underneath her bloodshot eyes and showed a smile that would make even demons run.
"Fine with me........if you won't step aside no matter what, I will answer in a suitable way...........don't resent me, all right? "
While whispering those words in a cold voice, she took out a short sword.
The fierce power dwelling within made Kazuma's face cramp.
".....Oi, what is that? "
"The Tsuchimikado have have two forms of divination that are so powerful even we can't control them. This is the sealed one. It's name is ---- Goki"
"---Wait! ", shouted Kazuma with a changed expression.
"Do you mean that Goki!? The divination form used by Senmei!? Why would you release something you cannot control!? It will turn into
a horrible tragedy! "
Abe Senmei, the millennial old name that was still spoken of today among Omioudou.
Using divination forms he enslaved two demons, Zenki and Goki.
Since it became the most famous divination form in Japan, as expected it was on a totally different level than the average magic tricks,
similar to that of a god.
"It will be fine", declared Kaguya unusually flat.
"I cannot use it as an agent but our ancestor, Master Senmei left one order to Goki for the sake of it's descendants. To answer and
fulfill seven requests of the descendants of the Tsuchimikado. "
"Is there a precedent? "
"Three requests up until now. It's effectiveness and power are already approved. There are no problems. "
".........if possible I would like proof of it's safety. "
Kazuma's cough who looked more like a complaint, did not seem to reach the ears of the woman mad with jealousy.
"In the name of Master Senmei, come forth Goki. Crush until no bone is left that whore who did wrong to the Tsuchimikado. "
With that loud scream, Kaguya unsheathed the dagger. The light shining on the naked sword scattered with enormous power.
And that power started to swell up taking shape in one precise place in the garden.
"Waaah, it was the real deal, huh"
Before Kazuma's eyes grumbling so, looking unpleased, one demon manifested.
With a magnificent stature of more than three meters and a boorish build like it was chipped from stone.
A long cylindrical horn sprouted from it's forehead and it glared and the sky, giving off a ominous light from it's deep crimson eyes.
"Wh- what!? "
"this is------! "
Both Ayano and Takaaki shouted in surprise as Goki's tremendous power slapped into them, but contrary to the expectation-----
"Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa"
Together with a roar that shook the ground, it started to mow down the trees in the garden.
"-------Ara? "
"Hey", retorted Kazuma to Kaguya who looked slightly doubtful.
"The fact that you don't seem able to control it, it's all my imagination, right? "
"This is odd. It wasn't supposed to be like this. "
"This is not the time and place to be so easygoing, you know? Don't you understand what's causing this? "
"I cannot guess. I don't think I made some mistake with the transmission. "
Kazuma had the same opinion. There was no need to leave a monster-class like divination form to your successors, if they were incapable
of controlling it at the critical moment. Senmei couldn't have posibly wanted the downfall of the Tsuchimikado, right?
"Then, is there some other cause? What's this? "
He investigated the surroundings, lending an ear to the sound of the wind, without missing anything abnormal----
"------Aah? "
He suddenly noticed it. This Ryoutei was surrounded by a weird 『place』.
Something that was and wasn't a barrier, an instable, imperfect, distorted 『place』.
"What is this? "
Once more, Kazuma carefully examined the surroundings. The countless number of amulets stretched around the inn composed the 『place』.
Judging from the type of charms, it was safe to say this was some Onmyoudou Jutsu but ---- even from the point of view of an outsider
like Kazuma, it was clear the arrangement of amulets was incoherent.
"What the heck is this? "
Kazuma was dumbfounded at the irresponsible, amateur-like work.
He even seriously considered the absolutely unlikely possibility the Jutsushi was drunk for a second.
But he did not know.
That Taiichirou, who sneaked in quicker, shifted the placement of charms in accordance with Yuukari's instructions. And that the Jutsu
didn't become invalid like it normally would but took a form it normally couldn't, warping it's effect.
The chain of accident and coincidence brought about an abnormal effect nobody was expecting.
"Did you find something? "
In reply to Kagura's question, Kazuma explained his deduction.
Kagura made a shocked expression when she heard this but she shook her head, frowning.
"No way, that is impossible. It's different from a divination form, Goki is high rank being similar to a god. For it to go mad because of
a human Jutsu..."
"Maybe not Goki himself but isn't he being controlled by a millennium old order? If it's been that long there may be bugs in it. "
The one who ordered Goki was Abe Senmei, meaning Tsuchimikado's ancestor. The 『place』 was now being distorted by the same Tsuchimikado
Jutsu so the possibility of making it run wild was not just a possibility but almost a certainty.
"................."
In stead of a very fast denial, Kagura was silent. Meaning she had no way to refute Kazuma's argument.
"How do you seal that thing? "
Once more, Kagura didn't reply. The meaning of that silence was clear.
"Then, there's no way around it. I'll have to kill it. "
"Waah--- that is absolutely impossible! That's not something a human can stand against! "
"I'm not telling you to help. Aah, give me that. "
Kazuma plundered the blade where Goki was sealed in the scabbard. But for some reason the blade couldn't get in.
"------Hmm"
Sticking the blade and the scabbard in the belt of his trousers, Kazuma jumped down from the roof totally unenthusiastic.
"Aaah, enough already! What am I supposed to do about this!? "
While fighting against Goki on a rampage, Ayano screamed unable to bear it any longer.
If she could she would have escaped from here but right now that was impossible.
Because Juugo was inside the Ryoutei.
It was possible he already evacuated but since she could not confirm it, she had no choice but to deal with this thing.
Meaning that in order to distract Goki from the Ryoutei, she had to fight with him very carefully in order for both their attacks never
to face the ryoutei's direction.
What's more, the opponent was a monster whose name was passed down through history. For Ayano by herself, the load was a bit too heavy.
Accurately, she wasn't exactly alone, Takaaki was doing something that resembled protecting her back behind her ----- but honestly, he
wasn't very helpful.
But that was only to be expected.
She didn't have the time to listen to the full story but Ayano understood that was something like Tsuchimikado's final weapon.
And since Takaaki couldn't use a Jutsu higher than that, he was unable to oppose Goki.
".....Kuuh.....but......if this goes on........"
While handling an attack resembling a windstorm, Ayano grumbled in her heart.
This kind of enemy was extraordinary even under normal circumstances and yet, right now the constraints were too many. As it is, she will
certainly be pressed and defeated.
"If I could have at least five seconds......."
She needed 『time』 to accumulate power --- she sincerely thought so but that was the same with letting Takaaki die.
No matter how much his side was to blame for this, she couldn't not ask this of him.
But, at that time.
"Eeh-----?"
The wind gently formed swirls and blew through her hair as if playing with it.
Instantly, Ayano opened her eyes wide, and---- plunged in.
"Ayano-san! Don't be rash! "
Shouldering Enraiha and with a posture obviously preparing for a big move, Takaaki shouted at Ayano with a voice close to screaming.
In a panic he rushed to her but he didn't get there in time.
And just like he feared, Goki rushed towards Ayano, standing still. She wanted five seconds to amass power but she wasn't even allowed
one-----
Zaan!
The second that strong arm was about to swing downward, countless wind blades descended from the skies and ripped it's entire body.
Goki was in anguish as it's body fluids and shrieks scattered.
Each wound was superficial by itself and he was still alive but this was already a fatal wound.
Those gashes were not meant to chop him up, their purpose was to give Ayano the 『time』 she wanted.
Opening her eyes wide, Ayano grasped Enraiha with force.
The flames released from the blade increased their calorific value explosively.
Putting her entire strength behind it, she swung downward the edge clad in flames.
The enemy is before her eyes. There's no need to take aim-------
"Haaaaaaaahh! "
The gushing out golden plasma instantly set aflame Goki's large build.
"--------------------------------------------------!!"
Wrapped in golden flames, Goki shrieked looking up at the sky. But even that scream was engulfed in the blaze, unable to make the air
vibrate.
And to make double sure, once again, wind blades rained from the sky.
A hundred or more blades, this time aiming for the kill.
The demon's body changed into a flaming puppet was instantly torn to pieces, without any resistance.
And then----
"Yo"
Together with a monotonous voice, one man landed on top of Goki's wreckage. Using the force of the landing he stabbed the demon's
cranium, who barely managed to retain it's original shape, with the dagger he held.
The demon's body that was burning a moment ago was absorbed by the dagger and disappeared.
"Well, even though it's a legendary divination form, if you take it by surprise, it amounts to this much. "
Weakly laughing, the man --- Kazuma, put the blade in the scabbard.
A clear sound resounded signaling the end of the battle.
"----So, why are you here? "
Her hands on her hips, Ayano glared at the man who appeared suddenly and snatched the most delicious part.
"Aah? "
Unexpectedly, Kazuma frowned.
He looked at the place where Takaaki was standing, a bit separated, with a 『Oh, you didn't tell her? 』 look.
But after Takaaki sent his way a glance full of hostility, he flatly ignored Kazuma's existence.
A cold air floated between them.
Looking at the both of them, Ayano asked curiously.
"Did something happen? "
"Don't mind it. It's over already"
Lightly warding off Ayano's question, Kazuma told her as if he just remembered.
"By the way, Soshu seems to be unharmed. "
The result of Ayano's hard fighting was that the building had insignificant damage compared to the garden.
Even if he would have remained inside, in this case there was no problem.
Next, he looked on top of the building. Kagura was already gone.
She seemed to have fled fearing the consequences of her actions.
But that did not matter to him.
Who will be the one to take responsibility for this was something for the Kannagi and the Tsuchimikado to sort between themselves.
If she would even try to evade paying him the rest of the money he will send her a proper thank you note, else it didn't matter to
him one bit whether she ran to the edge of the world or not.
What is most important was that after the ringleader ran from this place, the probability of some other strife waiting to happen was
almost zero.
Recognizing this, Kazuma finally lowered his guard and turned to Ayano.
"You did very well on your own, you were great"
At the 「on your own』 part Takaaki glared at him full of thirst for blood but he perfectly ignored him.
Praising Ayano with unusual candor, he even gently brushed her head but she roughly brushed off his hand, seeming not to like it.
"Don't pat my head, I'm not a child! "
"Hmm? Then you're fine with a more adult-oriented interaction? Something like this? "
"Ughyaaaa"
Embraced closely without warning, bright red, Ayano screamed in a strange voice.
While enjoying her reaction, Kazuma went even further.
"Then, after this, should I give you a blessing kiss? "
"Noooooooo! Let go of meeeeeee! "
Ayano squirmed. But obviously, Kazuma did not let go.
"Hey, you"
Seeing that sexual harassment turning to sexual assault, since he was a gentleman, Takaaki tried to intervene but his feet stopped after
just one step.
He recalled Ayano reaction when she was with him.
He embraced her and openly tried to court her without hiding his favor and Ayano did not reject him, nor did she feel bashful but came in
contact with him with a smiling face.
Comparing that with how she was now----
"I'm beaten......"
He saw he clearly misunderstood.
Perhaps, even if he would have embraced her in that way she would not get angry like she did right now and would perhaps rebuke him with
a soft smile.
But that meant she would not let her guard down around him, rather-----
"You, Yagami-kun"
"Aaah"
Called out by Takaaki, Kazuma shifted his attention on him looking annoyed.
Ayano too, still being embraced, looked over her shoulder.
Faced with both their gaze, Takaaki proudly named himself.
"First, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Tsuchimikado Takaaki. Today I had a formal marriage meeting with Ayano-san and will be
the person that will go out with Ayano-san from now on. "
"-------Hohou? "
Kazuma clearly understood Takaaki's challenging words.
Aiming a ferocious smile at the enemy who clearly didn't know his place, as if displaying it, he embraced Ayano even more strongly.
"That's fine with me"
"..................."
『He's the worst』 - Takaaki remembered Ayano's assessment about Kazuma's character.
It seems they weren't her real feelings regarding him but the plain truth about him --- right now he was absolutely convinced of that.
"Since it's clear we will meet again, it's nice to meet you, I suppose, because that's the polite way to say it"
"I have no problem with never meeting you again though"
Exchanging an unfavorable gaze, they completed their first meeting greeting.
From that moment, the fight for Ayano started --- but we're not yet sure.
