Time went back 2 days.
When Moroha landed in Russia the afternoon of September 12 after a two hour or so flight from Narita to Vladivostok. Naturally, the objective of Moroha wasn’t about going on a pleasure jaunt.
But to protect Leshya who became his「family」 and to wage war against Lightning Empress Vasilisa.
However, this was his first trip abroad ever since he was born.
It was an impossible request for him to not get completely excited as he breathed in the air of a different country.
The people with different hair colors and different eye colors who walked in the airport were lively and happy.
That allowed him to understand with his vision the common fact that there wasn’t two human beings.*
*TN: It means that people were different.
Since it was an international airport, information was mostly written in English, but obviously the one that caught his eyes was the Russian language.
The Cyrillic characters, which weren’t similar to the English alphabet, looked like funny characters for Moroha, they dispelled the image of an extremely cold and dark country he had.
Immediately after he left the airport, he looked up at the sun that seemed to be weaker than the one he saw in Japan,
– It feels a bit chilly, but not the level where I’ll die. I didn’t expect this.
He smiled at his fellow traveler.
Yes, this new people, things and landscape stole his heart for a brief moment, but Moroha had a travel companion.
However, that companion said to Moroha who smiled at her,
– But, we’re still in September, you know? Even though the summers of Russia are short, it will genuinely get much colder around next month.
She sneered at him just because he didn’t know that.
This white beautiful woman shrugged her shoulders and bent her cheeks as if treating him with contempt.
She was barely over 20 years old.
Her beauty was profaned, it was spoiled by her facial expression that laid bare her rough true nature, or more precisely, she had the appearance of a stray dog.
She was tall even though she was a woman, her eyes were almost at the same height as Moroha’s.
Even though the lines of her fascinating body were at plain sight, why was that when those lines appeared to combine, her physique gave off a thick feeling?
A soldier and a woman by birth――was the owner of such describing and perfectly suited appearance. Her name was Angela Johnson. And her alias: AJ.
Moroha, who was unfamiliar with the country of Russia, requested a pilot. And so, she was sent by “Sir” Edward, the Head of the British Division.
Edward said「my most trusted agent」, but he didn’t think at all that he would lend him the person that could be called his right hand.
– Oh, is that so? As expected of someone who knows everything.
Moroha strengthened even more the smile directed at his reassuring guide.
– Ugh, now I feel bitter about it…
However, AJ ended up getting disappointed somehow.
Even though he thanked him like this.
In fact, when they met again in Narita,
– You need a tourist visa to enter Russia. How you didn’t know that?
And,
– You didn’t even know about vouchers. The isolated people of this island are truly beyond help, aren’t they?
And,
– Let’s study a bit, student. If you’re caught by a cop, I’ll pretend I didn’t see anything, alright?
Among other things.
She taught him some information and important points for travelling in Russia.
She was the most reliable Onee-san.
When they first met, he got the worst impression of her when she attacked him all of a sudden, but now that they have been talking a lot like this, he came to like her thoroughly.
– The truth is that I don’t know anything, even if you feel bitter about it. Can I at least give you my thanks for teaching me information that was given in a more kind, careful and thorough way than the one I get from the teachers of my academy?
– … Aren’t you being too shameless?
– I can see very well how Shizuno became emotionally attached to Angela-san.
– Nonsense. The Shizuno of what world said so?
– Eh? But you’re quite close, aren’t you?
– Who told you such baseless words?
– How strange…. Shizuno said that Angela-san “is a peerless buddy though a quite old one”, didn’t she?
– HUUUUUH!?
AJ raised a hysteric voice all of a sudden.
She had her eyes wide open as if she were very upset.
The face she had was a bit amusing.
– I’m wrong? Even though you’re always speaking on the phone?
– Are you an idiot?! She’s the one calling me one-sidedly, she just annoys me!
– Hahaha, so that’s how it is. Doesn’t that resemble how it is between Edward and me?
– No, because it’s not a bother to get a call from my lord!
AJ shouted and laid bare her canines together with a character of a loyal dog.
(She’s an oddball, but that is amusing in this world because she’s yearned by such a good-natured person)
Despite Moroha thought so in his mind, he held back from saying it because he felt guilty about irritating the nerves of AJ.
– Well, I certainly wish to get along with you too. Please.
– I already told you that we aren’t good friends!
Moroha extended his right hand with renewed feelings, and *Slap*! It was hit by AJ’s palm. He never intended to go for a high five though.
Was this a culture gap between Japan and England, perhaps? When he vaguely thought so,
– Is that all? Or should I tell you something in advance?
His collar was abruptly grabbed by AJ, he stared at her from an extremely close distance.
(Oh, what a nice smell…)
If he were to blur that out, she would hit him, so he said nothing and nodded repeatedly.
– I dislike both Urushibara and you. If it wasn’t due to my lord’s command, then who would be your guide?
AJ glared at him with eyes determined to kill.
And like a savage dog that growled, he was threatened by her death-crushing voice.
– Did I do something to earn your hate?
However, Moroha asked in a carefree and relaxed manner.
*Mad*, the sound of a blood vessel bursting was heard from somewhere.
– Both you and Urushibara are sufficiently stupid to have the nerve to anger me in the same way! Is that the manner of doing things of the Japanese!?
– Eeh… It’s true that Shizuno has certain hobbies like making fun of people like that, but saying that Japanese are like that is totally false.
In order to calm AJ who was agitated for some reason, Moroha answered as he cheered her up lightly.
– Japanese are discreet people who have the virtue of reflection. I’m like that. If it’s fine with you, if you tell me the reason why you get angry, then I will improve myself, deal?
– Alright, I’ll tell you!
Moroha waited obediently for her words as his forehead was hit by AJ’s forehead who got very, very close to his face.
AJ judged him with a loud voice from practically 0 distance.
– I’ll never forget the grudge of being utterly defeated by you in the park of that night when I met you for the first time!
– Shouldn’t I be the one having a grudge?
It was no surprise that Moroha also grimaced.
No matter how one looked at it, the ones who attacked while hiding themselves with a helmet were at fault.
Even the discreet Japanese had difficulties in how to reflect on this.
– That’s not all! Since you’re an S-Rank Savior, you had a better ground than me. I felt relieved that I didn’t yield. However, and once I came to you, you had the nerve to not go all out which resulted in not being officially acknowledged as an S-Rank and instead you got quibbled by Lightning Empress! When I think I lost to such blockhead, I’m unable to suppress my frustration!
– B-but that isn’t my fault, is it?
– Because you lost your energy, you gave a chance to Lightning Empress to put false charges on you! Reflect on that! The choice of my lord was almost off the mark, but then I was just ridiculed by you, wasn’t I!?
– Is that also my fault…?
– Are you saying you didn’t lose your energy…?
– Maybe. Almost certainly. Probably. 40% I guess?
– So, do you deem yourself as an S-Rank?
– Hmm…
– Even though you were officially acknowledged at last, the person in question doesn’t recognize himself as such at all? Do you want my lord regret that?
He didn’t want her to reveal this to that guy, to Edward.
Moroha couldn’t let that happen, but it was too late!
– So? Are you going to speak clearly?
– I’m not that type of extravagant guy, you know?
– This cowaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaard!
Moroha, who was yelled by AJ as she bared her fangs, unconsciously shut his eyes.
He was thrust away and tottered because of it.
– Damn. Why do I have be away from Edward-sama’s side and must look after this coward? I don’t get it.
AJ ended up moving immediately as she used abusive language.
And headed to the station annexed to the airport.
Moroha felt he was kind of left behind, then he scratched his head and said “I give up.”
He was going to challenge the empire of Vasilisa alone after this, he wanted to get along with AJ at least, he thought they could get along, and yet.
This thought seemed to be a one-way street.
This problem wasn’t such a big issue, but it wasn’t a situation he could welcome either.
――He thought in his head and,
– What are you doing, Haimura? Do you want me to leave you behind? If you get lost, I won’t help you.
AJ stopped, looked back and advised him with penetrating eyes.
Moroha did nothing but smile.
(I, I like this person after all)
He caught up with AJ with quick steps and walked to the station together.
Moroha and AJ travelled using a high-speed railway called Aero Express to the heart of Vladivostok――which was about 40 kilometers to the south from the airport.
The scenery of the airport and the outward appearance of this train were cold and boorish, or more precisely, they had a design of maximum priority for functionality; Moroha appeared to catch a glimpse of the temperament of the Russians over there.
The townscape of Vladivostok seen from the train window was interesting.
It had a wonderful appearance in which the modern, new and beautiful townscape and a European-style, old-fashioned and pretty townscape lived together like a mosaic pattern.
With the holding of the summit meeting APEC that took place in 2012, Russia developed new facilities and transportation networks in the old towns for the prestige of the large country, it seemed it reached that scenery because it was greatly remodeled.
AJ guided him exhaustively although she inserted「This ignorant!」around 10 times as she did so.
Along those lines, it appeared that this Aero Express was established at that time, it was brand new and comfortable.
On the other hand, the railway crossed to the opposite side of the city where the wide Amur Bay was.
Vladivostok was also a port city that faced the bay, and when he became aware of it, he recognized the smell of the sea water drifting inside the train slightly.
Although Moroha got tired of looking at the sea from the airplane, this smell stimulated his memories, and because he recalled the island that floated off the coast of Yamaguchi prefecture, the island where he went to do training camp during summer vacation, pleasant feelings were brought back.
But at the same time, bitter feelings due to Fortress with whom he fought risking his life and the plot of Lightning Empress Vasilisa were brought back as well.
(She must also pay for what she did at that time…)
Moroha renewed his thoughts as he gazed at the fiery sea of waves.
Moroha, who arrived at Vladivostok Station located in the heart of the city,
– I’d like to have a meal first.
Tried to request so based on his physiological needs.
In Japan, it was common that large stations were together with commercial establishments, but Vladivostok Station truly had just a single function and that was being a station, it didn’t have a shopping center or anything of the sort.
– It would be great if there’s a good restaurant around here.
He stood in the station square and took an extensive view of his surroundings.
What he saw to the front was a statue of Lenin on a pedestal as if it stood towering over the surroundings.
The main street ran by the side of the square and extended endlessly to the left and right.
The European-style buildings standing in a row along the street were very exotic. However, the ambience of the street didn’t differ too much from Japan due to the making of the asphalt road and that Japanese cars that ran on them stood out.
And beyond the main street, to his right hand, he felt a bustling mood.
Maybe there were one or two delicious-looking restaurants.
– Why don’t we――
Go over there? He was about to say so, but he spotted a police officer who was policing the station square in that direction.
– Why don’t I ask him if restaurants are placed together somewhere?
That was more reliable than moving by intuition.
Moroha said those words and tried to run.
– Wait, you idiot!
And then, he was pinioned by AJ.
(Ah! her chest is on my back…)
If he were to blurt a thing like that out, it would make her switch over to a rear naked choke, so he swallowed his words and came to a halt.
– Did I do something wrong?
– How are you going to talk to a cop, you idiot!? Don’t get near him. Don’t meet his eyes.
– Why? The ones who avoid others…
Why is it absolutely necessary to move stealthily like a criminal…?
– If an Oriental guy like you were to get close to them, appearing to be a curious tourist, they will invent a pretext for a quarrel and will demand a bribe to let it slip, you know?
– Police officers are bad guys as well?
Moroha was struck by the terrible culture shock.
– Huh…? Or is that a joke?
– When a meteorite fell in Russia before, the videos transmitted on the news and the internet became a popular topic, no?
Moroha faced AJ, who was still pinioning and constricting him, and assented.
But it didn’t make sense, how was that linked to the talk of dirty cops?
– Yes, they were. I also saw it on the news. It was neat.
– Don’t you think it’s strange? Why there were people who happened to be present so conveniently like that supplied with cameras?
– When you say it like that…. It would be impossible to record it even if the meteorite fell in front of me.
– Those videos were recorded by dashcams. In Russia, when a traffic accident occurs, the testimony of a police officer can become an advantage or a disadvantage depending on the bribe, that’s why it’s common sense to always leave it recording while moving for self-defense.
– This sounds like a tough country, doesn’t it…?
Moroha observed the cars that went down the main street despite being astonished.
Those things that felt no different from Japan suddenly appeared to be different and strange things. What an unpleasant exoticism.
– This thing about the injustice has been dealt quite well by the police ever since the current administration came to power. Nevertheless, it would be the best if that negligence didn’t exist.
– Indeed. Thank you.
Moroha ducked his head and thanked AJ for stopping him.
– This is one of the reasons why Japanese people are called “peace idiots”. You thought that public order was a natural thing and that cops are obviously the watchmen of the law, didn’t you?
He didn’t care if he was being hit by her abusive language.
Rather, he was grateful for being born as a Japanese.
– First and foremost, how would you talk to him if you can’t speak Russian?
– Well, gestures would do the job… right?
– Try doing so with me as a test. It sounds interesting, so I’ll take a look at it.
– Please spare me from that embarrassment.
Moroha, who was maliciously scorned by AJ, scratched his head.
Incidentally, all the conversation between them was done in English.
Since it was the official language of the White Knight Organization and it was heavily used in classes at Akane Academy, Moroha intended to learn it seriously after he enrolled in it. He also had good private tutors such as the native English speaker Sophie-senpai and Shizuno who was at the same level as her, they both gave him numerous one-on-one classes. He also had plenty of opportunities to practice it thanks to the annoying phone calls of Edward. Lately he had been able to achieve a considerable fluent English.
– Anyway, let’s move.
AJ said so and immediately started walking to the right side of the main street.
– Eh, where are we going?
– You became hungry, no?
Although AJ’s tone of voice remained curt, Moroha was happy.
He followed her in a good mood like a dog waging its tail.
– Do you know a good restaurant?
– Let me see. But if we go to Sventranskaya Street, there should be something there.
– As expected of someone who is well-informed.
– I’m your pilot after all. I drummed geography into my head.
– I give you my eternal gratitude. And for doing it for me.
– H-humph. I said this duty was entrusted to me by no other than my lord, didn’t I? I will get lots of praises once I return to my country, so there’s no reason for you to thank me or anything like that.
AJ turned her face away, looking annoyed, but Moroha showed a smile on his whole face.
The figure of this beautiful woman who stared intensely and desperately at a map as she used abusive language came to his mind.
– I’m disgusted. I hate how Japanese people speak carelessly without difficulty.
– Meanwhile, I continue getting more and more addicted to this British person who doesn’t have an insincere smile.
– About who?
– Who knows? I’ll let that to your imagination.
They started walking shoulder-to-shoulder while cracking jokes.
To the even more bustling street.
As they exchanged words more lively.
They went out to Sventranskaya Street which was the main street of Vladivostok, and as they looked for a restaurant, AJ decided a place on her own.
It was gorgeous, yet obviously a restaurant for tourists.
There was a standing signboard with information written in English in front of the store, which meant that the threshold was low.
However, the somewhat stylish atmosphere seemed to say it was really expensive.
– It can be a cheaper restaurant though…
Or perhaps he should say “That’s not what is causing concern”.
When he suggested so as if he entreated her, AJ laughed scornfully at him.
– I have a high opinion of its safety in both security and hygiene. Remember the “peace idiot Japanese”.
– … I understand.
What if this was a cheap restaurant where strange ingredients were used or was one that had ill-natured clientele? In Japan, it was rarely a big problem not worrying about that.
He unwillingly assented and went inside the restaurant, following AJ.
Rapidly a waiter guided them to a table for two people and gave them two menus in English.
Moroha stared at it as if it had a hole.
Naturally, the first thing that weighed on his mind was the price. However, it was written in ruble only, and as this was unknown for Moroha, he couldn’t get to converting it to Japanese Yen. Assuming this was an outrageous amount of money, he wouldn’t know what to do. A strange sweat rose to the surface of his skin.
– My lord is taking charge of all the funds of this trip. So why aren’t you able to act properly?
– Well, to put it bluntly, I feel reluctant to do so…
He got him to dispatch AJ and he borrowed her obediently, but he didn’t want to have more debt towards him.
– In that case, if you take me with you to the scum of the Russian Division instead of going by yourself, that should make my lord happy.
– I unexpectedly don’t want to fight…
He ended up complaining by reflex, but surely Leshya would forgive him. He apologized in his mind as he continued turning over the menu.
– So?
AJ, the other party, closed the menu and left it behind, and glared at him like she was probing him.
– So, what?
– I heard from my lord that you came to wage war against the Russian Division. But the practical question is: are you planning to do it all by yourself?
– I’m going to march into their stronghold and have a talk with Lightning Empress-san. If I’m not satisfied, I’m prepared to go to war. If obstacles appear on the way, I’m willing to eliminate them. Isn’t that good enough?
While Moroha earnestly struggled with the menu, AJ replied quite indifferently.
– That is to the level of a child’s fantasy…
AJ perspired cold sweat with a look that went beyond amazement.
– Is there a problem with that?
– The whole thing is a problem.
AJ covered her forehead as if she endured a headache.
– What…? Are you really saying that I was dispatched all the way here to entertain Russia’s sightseeing of a brat just like a <travel company> tourist…?
– Ahaha, that’s a terrible expression.
– Don’t laugh!
Moroha, who was yelled by AJ as she laid bare her fangs, turned his eyes into an X.
*TN: Like this (>_<)
– … Whatever. You’re strong. Even if several tens of Saviors attack you, you can eliminate them empty handed and you’ll make Lightning Empress surrender with your Jujitsu. That’s how you’re going to do it, am I correct? But that small thinking is insufficient, Haimura.
– How’s that?
– The Russian Division doesn’t have a stronghold or anything like that. Lightning Empress constantly changes her whereabouts, moreover, she keeps it a secret.
AJ joined her hands on the table and, in a complete change, she put a serious face and told him.
– Oh, I see. How did you know all that?
– My prediction was… all over your face.
– Shizuno told me so, you see? She said that “man-eater” is the strongest guardian of Lightning Empress. The fact that she requires such a strong bodyguard means that the feeling of the danger to herself is turning her inside out, no? It’s natural since she always does what she wants, starts fights with anyone and everyone and she’s so feminine that she purges her subordinates relentlessly, so she expects to have a lot of enemies. If she could advertise “Hey, I built a stronghold here”, assassin after assassin would come along and that should be really annoying.
I’m right, aren’t I? Moroha confirmed with a smile.
– … Tsk. I thought that you were more than a thoughtless, violent guy.
AJ grumbled sullenly.
Somehow, those eyes of hers looked at him as if they reproached 「this traitor」.
– Why are you treating me like a simple-minded person? That is a harsh false accusation, you know?
– How’s that a false accusation? You launched an attack in order to call Urushibara’s studying abroad matter off and now you start talking about going to war with Russia alone. If you consider that is normal, then I think either your brain tissue is made of muscle or you’re a wild boar or you’re nuts.
– Uh…
Moroha faltered, he was unable to give an objection.
Because he reflected on his past actions, he was shocked, and became pale.
– So?
– So?
– Now that you don’t know the whereabouts of Lightning Empress, what do you plan to do?
– I’m thinking of starting properly from the beginning.
In order to get free from the stigma of a wild boar, Moroha cleared his throat with an “ahem”.
– Metaphysicals should appear even in Russia, no?
– I told you, didn’t I? That Lightning Empress performed a demon extermination when the White Knight Organization was just barely established? However, in the present, and unless a Dreadnought appears, she leaves everything to her subordinates. If you had a plan like waiting for something like that to appear, then that is reeeally a poor plan.
– Well, such a trust in a strategy won’t do it.
While Moroha gave a bitter smile as he said “You have no trust in me, huh”,
– So, what about those subordinates? It’s not like all the members revolving around Lightning Empress won’t know her whereabouts, right?
– That’s true. In order to be able to immediately deal with the metaphysicals, Lightning Empress should have placed branch offices in the major cities and deployed all her subordinates except for her very close aides. The heads that command those branch offices are all A-Rank leaders who have been given a considerable independent discretionary power.
No matter what he asked, the guide would explain everything fluently as expected.
This was also in accordance with what he thought. The land of Russia was tremendously wide. She had no choice but to cover the whole area by distributing her military strength. There wasn’t a The Origin like the gate of instantaneous movement of the principal of Akane Academy.
– That means――that we should catch those leaders, the heads of the branch offices and get information about the whereabouts of Lightning Empress out of them?
– Are you honestly thinking they’ll spill the beans?
Moroha, who was asked, turned over the menu and replied uninterested as if imitating a gossip in a calm and composed voice.
– I want them to speak honestly if possible.
AJ suddenly opened her eyes wide and made a sound with her throat.
– You’re telling me… that if they aren’t willing to speak, you’re prepared to torture them?
She asked him, but he didn’t reply this time.
Only the sound of the pages of the menu being turned filled the table.
His Natural Stance had no fighting spirit, however, the impressiveness of Moroha was as if Mt. Taishan was enshrined there.
AJ had her breath taken away while becoming pale.
But a tinge of red was gradually getting visible on her face. A disturbed smile was carved on the corners of her mouth.
As if she was saying「I suspected as much」.
AJ licked her lips for a moment as if showing a chink of a mad dog’s face with no make-up from a break of her intellectual and beautiful face and,
– Fu, fufuh…. Honestly, I was fed up with being the babysitter of a “good boy-chan”. This is going to turn into an enjoyable journey. Now, let’s have a meal. Before the war, alright?
She called the waiter and began to order.
– I want to eat delicious stuff.
Moroha closed the menu.
Honestly, he was unfamiliar with Russian cuisine, so if she was going to choose for him without asking him, then that would save him the trouble. How reliable.
– You know? I’ll only order what I like.
– Doesn’t that mean that you’re going to teach me something delicious?
– This guy’s so noisy…
AJ squinted but rapidly pulled herself together and ordered.
Moroha closed his eyes, slipping out a chuckle and his desire for the dishes of a foreign country that would come for the first time quickened.
Moroha ate with relish the food that came.
Yaizo su ikrai*.
*TN: This is the name of the dish written in katakana. I have no idea if there’s a version of this in Russian and when looking for a reference, I found nothing :c
A luxury appetizer with plenty of salted salmon roe and boiled eggs cut in half. The appetite of Moroha was crushed from the very beginning as he said「This looks expensive…」, but they were so delicious he gave up saying so. The unexpected affinity of egg and egg, or rather, the salt of the salmon roes matched the flavor of the boiled eggs, it was a saltiness the latter wished for.
Krissha zavikonnaya su avashami.*
*TN: This is the name of the dish written in katakana. I have no idea if there’s a version of this in Russian and when looking for a reference, I found nothing :c
A dish in which chicken was wrapped in foil together with vegetables and cooked in an oven.
The seasoning was almost only salt and pepper, but mashed potatoes instead of sauce were sprinkled on top of it, and he said「This one too!」. The fleeting fragrance and the rich flavor of the carefully strained potatoes were simply wrapping up the tenderness and the taste of the fat of the chicken, but they had an incredibly good flavor.
He had heard from Leshya that Russians loved potatoes too, but in fact salads and soups came together with those dishes, both their mind and their bellies were filled in happiness.
A smiling face became visible in front of his favorite dish. It was a authentic piroshki.
He was surprised by the deliciousness of the minced meat and the vegetables that filled plenty the inside and the skin that wrapped them up. The food texture was like it charmingly fondled the top of the tongue with a smooth feeling. He was made to eat it with light but clumsy utensils. It seemed that it would take a while to satisfy his hunger with them.
AJ displayed her liking for alcohol while sitting in front of Moroha who showed gluttony for the first time in a while.
She drank up a Russian beer with a high alcohol strength called Baltika.
Even though it was still a bright day, she didn’t hesitate.
– I don’t have the confidence enough to be looking after a drunkard in this strange land.
Moroha gave a light warning to the pilot as her role would turn into the one being guided.
– Fool. Who can get dead drunk with just this?
– It’s great if that’s the case, but…
– Stop with your attack-looking face. There was no talk about not drinking alcohol when coming to Russia. And why don’t you do it?
– I’m a minor so I decline. I mean, when it comes to Russia, it should be vodka, no?
– Because it doesn’t have a taste nor I’m interested on it. I don’t like it.
And so on; it was thanks to the alcohol that a silly idle talk was born.
As AJ said, she wasn’t going to expose herself being in a drunken and disgraceful behavior, but her demeanor that was stinging and dangerous was mellowing in tipsiness.
She put her glamorous body on the back of the chair and became talkative,
– Well, I understand your resolution. The practical problem is: just because you could get the information about the whereabouts of Lightning Empress, will you be able to win against that monster? Do you have confidence in yourself?
She asked Moroha who was eating a Russian-style crepe Blini.
– It’s not about whether I have the confidence in myself or not. I’m going to win.
– Huh. 『I’m not shomething sho exaggerated like a Sh-Rank』, the guy who was saying something along those lines left in a big way.
Although AJ was making fun of him as much as she could, the manner of speaking of Moroha wasn’t all bad either. Moroha was a bit shy, but he said clearly as he scratched his head.
– I know it’s not going to be easy. But―― not even I can stop this feeling of wanting to help Leshya.
– Hmmm. Now you’re saying impertinent things like your social standing, you brat.
AJ bent herself forward on the table with a glass in one hand and did a strong finger flick on his forehead.
– But I don’t dislike men who push themselves to the limit.
– How unfair. That can’t get you mad, right?
Moroha smiled wryly as he pressed his forehead that was struck hard.
– You’re like my lord――you resemble Edward-sama, you know?
– And that’s enough to get you mad?
Moroha raised his voice unintentionally.
The frequency of being treated like Edward had hopelessly increased lately, and that was very, very regrettable.
– What are you so angry about?
AJ made her eyes blink in surprise, with a facial expression that said “I really don’t know”, but Moroha couldn’t understand it either.
You are happy because you are telling me that I’m like that walking absurd? No, that’s not it.
– Who is praising you? Edward-sama, despite appearances, is a person who loves splendid fights――
– I know. I’ll never forget how he slashed at me with that smiling face.
– Don’t interrupt me with frivolous remarks. Listen to the end.
– … please continue.
– He is a person who loves fights, but he still doesn’t fight for his own desires. In the fights against metaphysicals, he pays careful attention and gives directions all by himself so that no one dies. He always stands in front of our army and yet, he takes charge of the most dangerous ones in the most dangerous places. When we look at the back of my lord in the battlefield, the uninspired villains won’t reach the British headquarters. That is the reason why my lord is a hero who is praised as Lionheart.
AJ ended up starting being proud of Edward as if it was her own affair. Was it his imagination? But she looked like stars were floating in her eyes.
She was a scary Onee-san with a certain blunt attitude, but she also had a proper feminine side like this one, and Moroha in no way could hate that.
– Edward-sama is the one that protect us when we fight, because he is the strongest Edward-sama.
That faithful and unsuspecting tone of voice and that gaze of hers were very charming.
– You really like Edward, huh.
– Dooooooon’t poke fun at me! This kid. Fo-for the most part, I-I’m only extending my respect and affection, alright? Don’t misunderstand! *Cough cough*.
– Haha, got it.
This scary Onee-san was smiling incredibly just as she cleared her throat, feeling embarrassed. Moroha, who couldn’t bother to tease her, pardoned her.
– You too, Haimura. When considering the words I heard from Urushibara, aren’t you a man who demonstrates all his strength when it comes to protect someone? That’s why I said you are similar to him.
– … being that the case, then that makes me happy and embarrassed.
AJ got troubled by the unexpected backhanded compliment and cleared her throat in a big way again. And took a renewed attitude.
In contrast with that, and with a very small voice that seemed it would vanish,
– You have to win.
She whispered.
Moroha just chewed those words thoroughly, without asking for an explanation.
– Remember this. Lightning Empress has 2 The Origin.
– She’s a Grimoire Holder, right?
– Yes. One of the two is an incantation. But that’s something to be particularly on guard about. Because, each time she uses it, the territory of her country erodes, so she can’t use it readily. In fact, there have been just three uses of it in the past, and they are used as a last resort when a Dreadnought has appeared.
Moroha nodded deeply to AJ’s explanation.
He himself was also a Grimoire Holder.
Lightning Empress was the first person in the history of the records, and Moroha was the second in the history.
But Moroha had never used such an atrocious and unparalleled Dark Art, not even once.
If he were to use it, this land would turn into a barren land, it would end up being shut forever.
Such responsibility wasn’t something he would ever like to bear. He was horrified.
– Therefore, and pragmatically speaking, the most dangerous is the other one. An 8th rank Dark Art of Lightning that only she has.
The name given by the White Knight Organization was――Lightning Helix.
– I’ve heard a few names who are able to use up to 7th rank. But Lightning Empress is the only one who have used 8th rank ones.
While she hadn’t seen it with her own eyes, AJ told him,
– Since it’s an 8th rank one, both its power and attack range aren’t common. Supposing I ended up being attacked by her, I would be at a loss. But if we think that concentration, chanting and spelling for it aren’t that simple, then finding out a way to escape during that interval is, well――
– I’m partially a Kuroma, so I get such matter as I’ve experienced it personally.
– Hmm. Then that’s good.
AJ softened her look and held out her glass, demanding a toast.
– Let’s pray for your fortunes of war.
She was smiling at him, but with no hint of scorn included in it.
It was really a carefree and nice look.
– This is my first time seeing the smile of Angela-san. This is a blessing.
Moroha also took a glass of mineral water in his hand and smiled back at her.
And that face was immediately dashed with beer!
– Wha….
– You brat, don’t come telling me such pretentious woooooooooooords!
AJ shouted in anger, making her whole face blush.
– Ahaha, you don’t have to feel so incredibly embarrassed, do you? Angela-san is surprisingly cute after all.
– This guy, don’t blame me if I kill you right now, you hear meeeee!?
The tightly clenched fist of AJ who bent herself forward on the table soared.
Moroha dodged it nimbly with just an inclination of his head.
– Don’t avoid it!
– Don’t tell me something unreasonable, please…
– But you didn’t dodge the beer!
– That’s impossible. Are you saying that I have to put up an umbrella?*
*TN: I don’t get Moroha’s line at all. It’s written as it is in Japanese.
– Are you saying that my fist is weaker than the beer!?
– You have a comeback for every remark…
Moroha put a forced smile on his face as he soothed her brazenly.
He didn’t know who the adult was and who the kid was anymore.
– The people in the restaurant are surprised too. You see?
– … Tsk.
AJ clicked her tongue powerfully and showily and sat down with a thump.
– I don’t care how much your fortunes of war have improved. Just die, drop dead, kill yourself right away. Being released from this mission early will be a great delight.
AJ stabbed the chicken strongly with a fork while getting angry.
Since they weren’t going to talk anymore, their eyes weren’t going to meet either.
(We made things awkward, huh)
Moroha grumbled in his mind as he resumed his meal.
The mood died.
The gazes of the surprised eyes of the waiters hurt.
They certainly looked like a strange combination for them.
(I’d like to talk to Vladivostok’s branch office head as soon as possible tonight. Though getting along well with Angela-san might be more difficult…)
Moroha tasted the jam-filled Blini in a bittersweet mood.
Time went back 2 days.
When Moroha landed in Russia the afternoon of September 12 after a two hour or so flight from Narita to Vladivostok. Naturally, the objective of Moroha wasn’t about going on a pleasure jaunt.
But to protect Leshya who became his「family」 and to wage war against Lightning Empress Vasilisa.
However, this was his first trip abroad ever since he was born.
It was an impossible request for him to not get completely excited as he breathed in the air of a different country.
The people with different hair colors and different eye colors who walked in the airport were lively and happy.
That allowed him to understand with his vision the common fact that there wasn’t two human beings.*
*TN: It means that people were different.
Since it was an international airport, information was mostly written in English, but obviously the one that caught his eyes was the Russian language.
The Cyrillic characters, which weren’t similar to the English alphabet, looked like funny characters for Moroha, they dispelled the image of an extremely cold and dark country he had.
Immediately after he left the airport, he looked up at the sun that seemed to be weaker than the one he saw in Japan,
– It feels a bit chilly, but not the level where I’ll die. I didn’t expect this.
He smiled at his fellow traveler.
Yes, this new people, things and landscape stole his heart for a brief moment, but Moroha had a travel companion.
However, that companion said to Moroha who smiled at her,
– But, we’re still in September, you know? Even though the summers of Russia are short, it will genuinely get much colder around next month.
She sneered at him just because he didn’t know that.
This white beautiful woman shrugged her shoulders and bent her cheeks as if treating him with contempt.
She was barely over 20 years old.
Her beauty was profaned, it was spoiled by her facial expression that laid bare her rough true nature, or more precisely, she had the appearance of a stray dog.
She was tall even though she was a woman, her eyes were almost at the same height as Moroha’s.
Even though the lines of her fascinating body were at plain sight, why was that when those lines appeared to combine, her physique gave off a thick feeling?
A soldier and a woman by birth――was the owner of such describing and perfectly suited appearance. Her name was Angela Johnson. And her alias: AJ.
Moroha, who was unfamiliar with the country of Russia, requested a pilot. And so, she was sent by “Sir” Edward, the Head of the British Division.
Edward said「my most trusted agent」, but he didn’t think at all that he would lend him the person that could be called his right hand.
– Oh, is that so? As expected of someone who knows everything.
Moroha strengthened even more the smile directed at his reassuring guide.
– Ugh, now I feel bitter about it…
However, AJ ended up getting disappointed somehow.
Even though he thanked him like this.
In fact, when they met again in Narita,
– You need a tourist visa to enter Russia. How you didn’t know that?
And,
– You didn’t even know about vouchers. The isolated people of this island are truly beyond help, aren’t they?
And,
– Let’s study a bit, student. If you’re caught by a cop, I’ll pretend I didn’t see anything, alright?
Among other things.
She taught him some information and important points for travelling in Russia.
She was the most reliable Onee-san.
When they first met, he got the worst impression of her when she attacked him all of a sudden, but now that they have been talking a lot like this, he came to like her thoroughly.
– The truth is that I don’t know anything, even if you feel bitter about it. Can I at least give you my thanks for teaching me information that was given in a more kind, careful and thorough way than the one I get from the teachers of my academy?
– … Aren’t you being too shameless?
– I can see very well how Shizuno became emotionally attached to Angela-san.
– Nonsense. The Shizuno of what world said so?
– Eh? But you’re quite close, aren’t you?
– Who told you such baseless words?
– How strange…. Shizuno said that Angela-san “is a peerless buddy though a quite old one”, didn’t she?
– HUUUUUH!?
AJ raised a hysteric voice all of a sudden.
She had her eyes wide open as if she were very upset.
The face she had was a bit amusing.
– I’m wrong? Even though you’re always speaking on the phone?
– Are you an idiot?! She’s the one calling me one-sidedly, she just annoys me!
– Hahaha, so that’s how it is. Doesn’t that resemble how it is between Edward and me?
– No, because it’s not a bother to get a call from my lord!
AJ shouted and laid bare her canines together with a character of a loyal dog.
(She’s an oddball, but that is amusing in this world because she’s yearned by such a good-natured person)
Despite Moroha thought so in his mind, he held back from saying it because he felt guilty about irritating the nerves of AJ.
– Well, I certainly wish to get along with you too. Please.
– I already told you that we aren’t good friends!
Moroha extended his right hand with renewed feelings, and *Slap*! It was hit by AJ’s palm. He never intended to go for a high five though.
Was this a culture gap between Japan and England, perhaps? When he vaguely thought so,
– Is that all? Or should I tell you something in advance?
His collar was abruptly grabbed by AJ, he stared at her from an extremely close distance.
(Oh, what a nice smell…)
If he were to blur that out, she would hit him, so he said nothing and nodded repeatedly.
– I dislike both Urushibara and you. If it wasn’t due to my lord’s command, then who would be your guide?
AJ glared at him with eyes determined to kill.
And like a savage dog that growled, he was threatened by her death-crushing voice.
– Did I do something to earn your hate?
However, Moroha asked in a carefree and relaxed manner.
*Mad*, the sound of a blood vessel bursting was heard from somewhere.
– Both you and Urushibara are sufficiently stupid to have the nerve to anger me in the same way! Is that the manner of doing things of the Japanese!?
– Eeh… It’s true that Shizuno has certain hobbies like making fun of people like that, but saying that Japanese are like that is totally false.
In order to calm AJ who was agitated for some reason, Moroha answered as he cheered her up lightly.
– Japanese are discreet people who have the virtue of reflection. I’m like that. If it’s fine with you, if you tell me the reason why you get angry, then I will improve myself, deal?
– Alright, I’ll tell you!
Moroha waited obediently for her words as his forehead was hit by AJ’s forehead who got very, very close to his face.
AJ judged him with a loud voice from practically 0 distance.
– I’ll never forget the grudge of being utterly defeated by you in the park of that night when I met you for the first time!
– Shouldn’t I be the one having a grudge?
It was no surprise that Moroha also grimaced.
No matter how one looked at it, the ones who attacked while hiding themselves with a helmet were at fault.
Even the discreet Japanese had difficulties in how to reflect on this.
– That’s not all! Since you’re an S-Rank Savior, you had a better ground than me. I felt relieved that I didn’t yield. However, and once I came to you, you had the nerve to not go all out which resulted in not being officially acknowledged as an S-Rank and instead you got quibbled by Lightning Empress! When I think I lost to such blockhead, I’m unable to suppress my frustration!
– B-but that isn’t my fault, is it?
– Because you lost your energy, you gave a chance to Lightning Empress to put false charges on you! Reflect on that! The choice of my lord was almost off the mark, but then I was just ridiculed by you, wasn’t I!?
– Is that also my fault…?
– Are you saying you didn’t lose your energy…?
– Maybe. Almost certainly. Probably. 40% I guess?
– So, do you deem yourself as an S-Rank?
– Hmm…
– Even though you were officially acknowledged at last, the person in question doesn’t recognize himself as such at all? Do you want my lord regret that?
He didn’t want her to reveal this to that guy, to Edward.
Moroha couldn’t let that happen, but it was too late!
– So? Are you going to speak clearly?
– I’m not that type of extravagant guy, you know?
– This cowaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaard!
Moroha, who was yelled by AJ as she bared her fangs, unconsciously shut his eyes.
He was thrust away and tottered because of it.
– Damn. Why do I have be away from Edward-sama’s side and must look after this coward? I don’t get it.
AJ ended up moving immediately as she used abusive language.
And headed to the station annexed to the airport.
Moroha felt he was kind of left behind, then he scratched his head and said “I give up.”
He was going to challenge the empire of Vasilisa alone after this, he wanted to get along with AJ at least, he thought they could get along, and yet.
This thought seemed to be a one-way street.
This problem wasn’t such a big issue, but it wasn’t a situation he could welcome either.
――He thought in his head and,
– What are you doing, Haimura? Do you want me to leave you behind? If you get lost, I won’t help you.
AJ stopped, looked back and advised him with penetrating eyes.
Moroha did nothing but smile.
(I, I like this person after all)
He caught up with AJ with quick steps and walked to the station together.
Moroha and AJ travelled using a high-speed railway called Aero Express to the heart of Vladivostok――which was about 40 kilometers to the south from the airport.
The scenery of the airport and the outward appearance of this train were cold and boorish, or more precisely, they had a design of maximum priority for functionality; Moroha appeared to catch a glimpse of the temperament of the Russians over there.
The townscape of Vladivostok seen from the train window was interesting.
It had a wonderful appearance in which the modern, new and beautiful townscape and a European-style, old-fashioned and pretty townscape lived together like a mosaic pattern.
With the holding of the summit meeting APEC that took place in 2012, Russia developed new facilities and transportation networks in the old towns for the prestige of the large country, it seemed it reached that scenery because it was greatly remodeled.
AJ guided him exhaustively although she inserted「This ignorant!」around 10 times as she did so.
Along those lines, it appeared that this Aero Express was established at that time, it was brand new and comfortable.
On the other hand, the railway crossed to the opposite side of the city where the wide Amur Bay was.
Vladivostok was also a port city that faced the bay, and when he became aware of it, he recognized the smell of the sea water drifting inside the train slightly.
Although Moroha got tired of looking at the sea from the airplane, this smell stimulated his memories, and because he recalled the island that floated off the coast of Yamaguchi prefecture, the island where he went to do training camp during summer vacation, pleasant feelings were brought back.
But at the same time, bitter feelings due to Fortress with whom he fought risking his life and the plot of Lightning Empress Vasilisa were brought back as well.
(She must also pay for what she did at that time…)
Moroha renewed his thoughts as he gazed at the fiery sea of waves.
Moroha, who arrived at Vladivostok Station located in the heart of the city,
– I’d like to have a meal first.
Tried to request so based on his physiological needs.
In Japan, it was common that large stations were together with commercial establishments, but Vladivostok Station truly had just a single function and that was being a station, it didn’t have a shopping center or anything of the sort.
– It would be great if there’s a good restaurant around here.
He stood in the station square and took an extensive view of his surroundings.
What he saw to the front was a statue of Lenin on a pedestal as if it stood towering over the surroundings.
The main street ran by the side of the square and extended endlessly to the left and right.
The European-style buildings standing in a row along the street were very exotic. However, the ambience of the street didn’t differ too much from Japan due to the making of the asphalt road and that Japanese cars that ran on them stood out.
And beyond the main street, to his right hand, he felt a bustling mood.
Maybe there were one or two delicious-looking restaurants.
– Why don’t we――
Go over there? He was about to say so, but he spotted a police officer who was policing the station square in that direction.
– Why don’t I ask him if restaurants are placed together somewhere?
That was more reliable than moving by intuition.
Moroha said those words and tried to run.
– Wait, you idiot!
And then, he was pinioned by AJ.
(Ah! her chest is on my back…)
If he were to blurt a thing like that out, it would make her switch over to a rear naked choke, so he swallowed his words and came to a halt.
– Did I do something wrong?
– How are you going to talk to a cop, you idiot!? Don’t get near him. Don’t meet his eyes.
– Why? The ones who avoid others…
Why is it absolutely necessary to move stealthily like a criminal…?
– If an Oriental guy like you were to get close to them, appearing to be a curious tourist, they will invent a pretext for a quarrel and will demand a bribe to let it slip, you know?
– Police officers are bad guys as well?
Moroha was struck by the terrible culture shock.
– Huh…? Or is that a joke?
– When a meteorite fell in Russia before, the videos transmitted on the news and the internet became a popular topic, no?
Moroha faced AJ, who was still pinioning and constricting him, and assented.
But it didn’t make sense, how was that linked to the talk of dirty cops?
– Yes, they were. I also saw it on the news. It was neat.
– Don’t you think it’s strange? Why there were people who happened to be present so conveniently like that supplied with cameras?
– When you say it like that…. It would be impossible to record it even if the meteorite fell in front of me.
– Those videos were recorded by dashcams. In Russia, when a traffic accident occurs, the testimony of a police officer can become an advantage or a disadvantage depending on the bribe, that’s why it’s common sense to always leave it recording while moving for self-defense.
– This sounds like a tough country, doesn’t it…?
Moroha observed the cars that went down the main street despite being astonished.
Those things that felt no different from Japan suddenly appeared to be different and strange things. What an unpleasant exoticism.
– This thing about the injustice has been dealt quite well by the police ever since the current administration came to power. Nevertheless, it would be the best if that negligence didn’t exist.
– Indeed. Thank you.
Moroha ducked his head and thanked AJ for stopping him.
– This is one of the reasons why Japanese people are called “peace idiots”. You thought that public order was a natural thing and that cops are obviously the watchmen of the law, didn’t you?
He didn’t care if he was being hit by her abusive language.
Rather, he was grateful for being born as a Japanese.
– First and foremost, how would you talk to him if you can’t speak Russian?
– Well, gestures would do the job… right?
– Try doing so with me as a test. It sounds interesting, so I’ll take a look at it.
– Please spare me from that embarrassment.
Moroha, who was maliciously scorned by AJ, scratched his head.
Incidentally, all the conversation between them was done in English.
Since it was the official language of the White Knight Organization and it was heavily used in classes at Akane Academy, Moroha intended to learn it seriously after he enrolled in it. He also had good private tutors such as the native English speaker Sophie-senpai and Shizuno who was at the same level as her, they both gave him numerous one-on-one classes. He also had plenty of opportunities to practice it thanks to the annoying phone calls of Edward. Lately he had been able to achieve a considerable fluent English.
– Anyway, let’s move.
AJ said so and immediately started walking to the right side of the main street.
– Eh, where are we going?
– You became hungry, no?
Although AJ’s tone of voice remained curt, Moroha was happy.
He followed her in a good mood like a dog waging its tail.
– Do you know a good restaurant?
– Let me see. But if we go to Sventranskaya Street, there should be something there.
– As expected of someone who is well-informed.
– I’m your pilot after all. I drummed geography into my head.
– I give you my eternal gratitude. And for doing it for me.
– H-humph. I said this duty was entrusted to me by no other than my lord, didn’t I? I will get lots of praises once I return to my country, so there’s no reason for you to thank me or anything like that.
AJ turned her face away, looking annoyed, but Moroha showed a smile on his whole face.
The figure of this beautiful woman who stared intensely and desperately at a map as she used abusive language came to his mind.
– I’m disgusted. I hate how Japanese people speak carelessly without difficulty.
– Meanwhile, I continue getting more and more addicted to this British person who doesn’t have an insincere smile.
– About who?
– Who knows? I’ll let that to your imagination.
They started walking shoulder-to-shoulder while cracking jokes.
To the even more bustling street.
As they exchanged words more lively.
They went out to Sventranskaya Street which was the main street of Vladivostok, and as they looked for a restaurant, AJ decided a place on her own.
It was gorgeous, yet obviously a restaurant for tourists.
There was a standing signboard with information written in English in front of the store, which meant that the threshold was low.
However, the somewhat stylish atmosphere seemed to say it was really expensive.
– It can be a cheaper restaurant though…
Or perhaps he should say “That’s not what is causing concern”.
When he suggested so as if he entreated her, AJ laughed scornfully at him.
– I have a high opinion of its safety in both security and hygiene. Remember the “peace idiot Japanese”.
– … I understand.
What if this was a cheap restaurant where strange ingredients were used or was one that had ill-natured clientele? In Japan, it was rarely a big problem not worrying about that.
He unwillingly assented and went inside the restaurant, following AJ.
Rapidly a waiter guided them to a table for two people and gave them two menus in English.
Moroha stared at it as if it had a hole.
Naturally, the first thing that weighed on his mind was the price. However, it was written in ruble only, and as this was unknown for Moroha, he couldn’t get to converting it to Japanese Yen. Assuming this was an outrageous amount of money, he wouldn’t know what to do. A strange sweat rose to the surface of his skin.
– My lord is taking charge of all the funds of this trip. So why aren’t you able to act properly?
– Well, to put it bluntly, I feel reluctant to do so…
He got him to dispatch AJ and he borrowed her obediently, but he didn’t want to have more debt towards him.
– In that case, if you take me with you to the scum of the Russian Division instead of going by yourself, that should make my lord happy.
– I unexpectedly don’t want to fight…
He ended up complaining by reflex, but surely Leshya would forgive him. He apologized in his mind as he continued turning over the menu.
– So?
AJ, the other party, closed the menu and left it behind, and glared at him like she was probing him.
– So, what?
– I heard from my lord that you came to wage war against the Russian Division. But the practical question is: are you planning to do it all by yourself?
– I’m going to march into their stronghold and have a talk with Lightning Empress-san. If I’m not satisfied, I’m prepared to go to war. If obstacles appear on the way, I’m willing to eliminate them. Isn’t that good enough?
While Moroha earnestly struggled with the menu, AJ replied quite indifferently.
– That is to the level of a child’s fantasy…
AJ perspired cold sweat with a look that went beyond amazement.
– Is there a problem with that?
– The whole thing is a problem.
AJ covered her forehead as if she endured a headache.
– What…? Are you really saying that I was dispatched all the way here to entertain Russia’s sightseeing of a brat just like a <travel company> tourist…?
– Ahaha, that’s a terrible expression.
– Don’t laugh!
Moroha, who was yelled by AJ as she laid bare her fangs, turned his eyes into an X.
*TN: Like this (>_<)
– … Whatever. You’re strong. Even if several tens of Saviors attack you, you can eliminate them empty handed and you’ll make Lightning Empress surrender with your Jujitsu. That’s how you’re going to do it, am I correct? But that small thinking is insufficient, Haimura.
– How’s that?
– The Russian Division doesn’t have a stronghold or anything like that. Lightning Empress constantly changes her whereabouts, moreover, she keeps it a secret.
AJ joined her hands on the table and, in a complete change, she put a serious face and told him.
– Oh, I see. How did you know all that?
– My prediction was… all over your face.
– Shizuno told me so, you see? She said that “man-eater” is the strongest guardian of Lightning Empress. The fact that she requires such a strong bodyguard means that the feeling of the danger to herself is turning her inside out, no? It’s natural since she always does what she wants, starts fights with anyone and everyone and she’s so feminine that she purges her subordinates relentlessly, so she expects to have a lot of enemies. If she could advertise “Hey, I built a stronghold here”, assassin after assassin would come along and that should be really annoying.
I’m right, aren’t I? Moroha confirmed with a smile.
– … Tsk. I thought that you were more than a thoughtless, violent guy.
AJ grumbled sullenly.
Somehow, those eyes of hers looked at him as if they reproached 「this traitor」.
– Why are you treating me like a simple-minded person? That is a harsh false accusation, you know?
– How’s that a false accusation? You launched an attack in order to call Urushibara’s studying abroad matter off and now you start talking about going to war with Russia alone. If you consider that is normal, then I think either your brain tissue is made of muscle or you’re a wild boar or you’re nuts.
– Uh…
Moroha faltered, he was unable to give an objection.
Because he reflected on his past actions, he was shocked, and became pale.
– So?
– So?
– Now that you don’t know the whereabouts of Lightning Empress, what do you plan to do?
– I’m thinking of starting properly from the beginning.
In order to get free from the stigma of a wild boar, Moroha cleared his throat with an “ahem”.
– Metaphysicals should appear even in Russia, no?
– I told you, didn’t I? That Lightning Empress performed a demon extermination when the White Knight Organization was just barely established? However, in the present, and unless a Dreadnought appears, she leaves everything to her subordinates. If you had a plan like waiting for something like that to appear, then that is reeeally a poor plan.
– Well, such a trust in a strategy won’t do it.
While Moroha gave a bitter smile as he said “You have no trust in me, huh”,
– So, what about those subordinates? It’s not like all the members revolving around Lightning Empress won’t know her whereabouts, right?
– That’s true. In order to be able to immediately deal with the metaphysicals, Lightning Empress should have placed branch offices in the major cities and deployed all her subordinates except for her very close aides. The heads that command those branch offices are all A-Rank leaders who have been given a considerable independent discretionary power.
No matter what he asked, the guide would explain everything fluently as expected.
This was also in accordance with what he thought. The land of Russia was tremendously wide. She had no choice but to cover the whole area by distributing her military strength. There wasn’t a The Origin like the gate of instantaneous movement of the principal of Akane Academy.
– That means――that we should catch those leaders, the heads of the branch offices and get information about the whereabouts of Lightning Empress out of them?
– Are you honestly thinking they’ll spill the beans?
Moroha, who was asked, turned over the menu and replied uninterested as if imitating a gossip in a calm and composed voice.
– I want them to speak honestly if possible.
AJ suddenly opened her eyes wide and made a sound with her throat.
– You’re telling me… that if they aren’t willing to speak, you’re prepared to torture them?
She asked him, but he didn’t reply this time.
Only the sound of the pages of the menu being turned filled the table.
His Natural Stance had no fighting spirit, however, the impressiveness of Moroha was as if Mt. Taishan was enshrined there.
AJ had her breath taken away while becoming pale.
But a tinge of red was gradually getting visible on her face. A disturbed smile was carved on the corners of her mouth.
As if she was saying「I suspected as much」.
AJ licked her lips for a moment as if showing a chink of a mad dog’s face with no make-up from a break of her intellectual and beautiful face and,
– Fu, fufuh…. Honestly, I was fed up with being the babysitter of a “good boy-chan”. This is going to turn into an enjoyable journey. Now, let’s have a meal. Before the war, alright?
She called the waiter and began to order.
– I want to eat delicious stuff.
Moroha closed the menu.
Honestly, he was unfamiliar with Russian cuisine, so if she was going to choose for him without asking him, then that would save him the trouble. How reliable.
– You know? I’ll only order what I like.
– Doesn’t that mean that you’re going to teach me something delicious?
– This guy’s so noisy…
AJ squinted but rapidly pulled herself together and ordered.
Moroha closed his eyes, slipping out a chuckle and his desire for the dishes of a foreign country that would come for the first time quickened.
Moroha ate with relish the food that came.
Yaizo su ikrai*.
*TN: This is the name of the dish written in katakana. I have no idea if there’s a version of this in Russian and when looking for a reference, I found nothing :c
A luxury appetizer with plenty of salted salmon roe and boiled eggs cut in half. The appetite of Moroha was crushed from the very beginning as he said「This looks expensive…」, but they were so delicious he gave up saying so. The unexpected affinity of egg and egg, or rather, the salt of the salmon roes matched the flavor of the boiled eggs, it was a saltiness the latter wished for.
Krissha zavikonnaya su avashami.*
*TN: This is the name of the dish written in katakana. I have no idea if there’s a version of this in Russian and when looking for a reference, I found nothing :c
A dish in which chicken was wrapped in foil together with vegetables and cooked in an oven.
The seasoning was almost only salt and pepper, but mashed potatoes instead of sauce were sprinkled on top of it, and he said「This one too!」. The fleeting fragrance and the rich flavor of the carefully strained potatoes were simply wrapping up the tenderness and the taste of the fat of the chicken, but they had an incredibly good flavor.
He had heard from Leshya that Russians loved potatoes too, but in fact salads and soups came together with those dishes, both their mind and their bellies were filled in happiness.
A smiling face became visible in front of his favorite dish. It was a authentic piroshki.
He was surprised by the deliciousness of the minced meat and the vegetables that filled plenty the inside and the skin that wrapped them up. The food texture was like it charmingly fondled the top of the tongue with a smooth feeling. He was made to eat it with light but clumsy utensils. It seemed that it would take a while to satisfy his hunger with them.
AJ displayed her liking for alcohol while sitting in front of Moroha who showed gluttony for the first time in a while.
She drank up a Russian beer with a high alcohol strength called Baltika.
Even though it was still a bright day, she didn’t hesitate.
– I don’t have the confidence enough to be looking after a drunkard in this strange land.
Moroha gave a light warning to the pilot as her role would turn into the one being guided.
– Fool. Who can get dead drunk with just this?
– It’s great if that’s the case, but…
– Stop with your attack-looking face. There was no talk about not drinking alcohol when coming to Russia. And why don’t you do it?
– I’m a minor so I decline. I mean, when it comes to Russia, it should be vodka, no?
– Because it doesn’t have a taste nor I’m interested on it. I don’t like it.
And so on; it was thanks to the alcohol that a silly idle talk was born.
As AJ said, she wasn’t going to expose herself being in a drunken and disgraceful behavior, but her demeanor that was stinging and dangerous was mellowing in tipsiness.
She put her glamorous body on the back of the chair and became talkative,
– Well, I understand your resolution. The practical problem is: just because you could get the information about the whereabouts of Lightning Empress, will you be able to win against that monster? Do you have confidence in yourself?
She asked Moroha who was eating a Russian-style crepe Blini.
– It’s not about whether I have the confidence in myself or not. I’m going to win.
– Huh. 『I’m not shomething sho exaggerated like a Sh-Rank』, the guy who was saying something along those lines left in a big way.
Although AJ was making fun of him as much as she could, the manner of speaking of Moroha wasn’t all bad either. Moroha was a bit shy, but he said clearly as he scratched his head.
– I know it’s not going to be easy. But―― not even I can stop this feeling of wanting to help Leshya.
– Hmmm. Now you’re saying impertinent things like your social standing, you brat.
AJ bent herself forward on the table with a glass in one hand and did a strong finger flick on his forehead.
– But I don’t dislike men who push themselves to the limit.
– How unfair. That can’t get you mad, right?
Moroha smiled wryly as he pressed his forehead that was struck hard.
– You’re like my lord――you resemble Edward-sama, you know?
– And that’s enough to get you mad?
Moroha raised his voice unintentionally.
The frequency of being treated like Edward had hopelessly increased lately, and that was very, very regrettable.
– What are you so angry about?
AJ made her eyes blink in surprise, with a facial expression that said “I really don’t know”, but Moroha couldn’t understand it either.
You are happy because you are telling me that I’m like that walking absurd? No, that’s not it.
– Who is praising you? Edward-sama, despite appearances, is a person who loves splendid fights――
– I know. I’ll never forget how he slashed at me with that smiling face.
– Don’t interrupt me with frivolous remarks. Listen to the end.
– … please continue.
– He is a person who loves fights, but he still doesn’t fight for his own desires. In the fights against metaphysicals, he pays careful attention and gives directions all by himself so that no one dies. He always stands in front of our army and yet, he takes charge of the most dangerous ones in the most dangerous places. When we look at the back of my lord in the battlefield, the uninspired villains won’t reach the British headquarters. That is the reason why my lord is a hero who is praised as Lionheart.
AJ ended up starting being proud of Edward as if it was her own affair. Was it his imagination? But she looked like stars were floating in her eyes.
She was a scary Onee-san with a certain blunt attitude, but she also had a proper feminine side like this one, and Moroha in no way could hate that.
– Edward-sama is the one that protect us when we fight, because he is the strongest Edward-sama.
That faithful and unsuspecting tone of voice and that gaze of hers were very charming.
– You really like Edward, huh.
– Dooooooon’t poke fun at me! This kid. Fo-for the most part, I-I’m only extending my respect and affection, alright? Don’t misunderstand! *Cough cough*.
– Haha, got it.
This scary Onee-san was smiling incredibly just as she cleared her throat, feeling embarrassed. Moroha, who couldn’t bother to tease her, pardoned her.
– You too, Haimura. When considering the words I heard from Urushibara, aren’t you a man who demonstrates all his strength when it comes to protect someone? That’s why I said you are similar to him.
– … being that the case, then that makes me happy and embarrassed.
AJ got troubled by the unexpected backhanded compliment and cleared her throat in a big way again. And took a renewed attitude.
In contrast with that, and with a very small voice that seemed it would vanish,
– You have to win.
She whispered.
Moroha just chewed those words thoroughly, without asking for an explanation.
– Remember this. Lightning Empress has 2 The Origin.
– She’s a Grimoire Holder, right?
– Yes. One of the two is an incantation. But that’s something to be particularly on guard about. Because, each time she uses it, the territory of her country erodes, so she can’t use it readily. In fact, there have been just three uses of it in the past, and they are used as a last resort when a Dreadnought has appeared.
Moroha nodded deeply to AJ’s explanation.
He himself was also a Grimoire Holder.
Lightning Empress was the first person in the history of the records, and Moroha was the second in the history.
But Moroha had never used such an atrocious and unparalleled Dark Art, not even once.
If he were to use it, this land would turn into a barren land, it would end up being shut forever.
Such responsibility wasn’t something he would ever like to bear. He was horrified.
– Therefore, and pragmatically speaking, the most dangerous is the other one. An 8th rank Dark Art of Lightning that only she has.
The name given by the White Knight Organization was――Lightning Helix.
– I’ve heard a few names who are able to use up to 7th rank. But Lightning Empress is the only one who have used 8th rank ones.
While she hadn’t seen it with her own eyes, AJ told him,
– Since it’s an 8th rank one, both its power and attack range aren’t common. Supposing I ended up being attacked by her, I would be at a loss. But if we think that concentration, chanting and spelling for it aren’t that simple, then finding out a way to escape during that interval is, well――
– I’m partially a Kuroma, so I get such matter as I’ve experienced it personally.
– Hmm. Then that’s good.
AJ softened her look and held out her glass, demanding a toast.
– Let’s pray for your fortunes of war.
She was smiling at him, but with no hint of scorn included in it.
It was really a carefree and nice look.
– This is my first time seeing the smile of Angela-san. This is a blessing.
Moroha also took a glass of mineral water in his hand and smiled back at her.
And that face was immediately dashed with beer!
– Wha….
– You brat, don’t come telling me such pretentious woooooooooooords!
AJ shouted in anger, making her whole face blush.
– Ahaha, you don’t have to feel so incredibly embarrassed, do you? Angela-san is surprisingly cute after all.
– This guy, don’t blame me if I kill you right now, you hear meeeee!?
The tightly clenched fist of AJ who bent herself forward on the table soared.
Moroha dodged it nimbly with just an inclination of his head.
– Don’t avoid it!
– Don’t tell me something unreasonable, please…
– But you didn’t dodge the beer!
– That’s impossible. Are you saying that I have to put up an umbrella?*
*TN: I don’t get Moroha’s line at all. It’s written as it is in Japanese.
– Are you saying that my fist is weaker than the beer!?
– You have a comeback for every remark…
Moroha put a forced smile on his face as he soothed her brazenly.
He didn’t know who the adult was and who the kid was anymore.
– The people in the restaurant are surprised too. You see?
– … Tsk.
AJ clicked her tongue powerfully and showily and sat down with a thump.
– I don’t care how much your fortunes of war have improved. Just die, drop dead, kill yourself right away. Being released from this mission early will be a great delight.
AJ stabbed the chicken strongly with a fork while getting angry.
Since they weren’t going to talk anymore, their eyes weren’t going to meet either.
(We made things awkward, huh)
Moroha grumbled in his mind as he resumed his meal.
The mood died.
The gazes of the surprised eyes of the waiters hurt.
They certainly looked like a strange combination for them.
(I’d like to talk to Vladivostok’s branch office head as soon as possible tonight. Though getting along well with Angela-san might be more difficult…)
Moroha tasted the jam-filled Blini in a bittersweet mood.
