Published at 17th of August 2019 7:58 am

Volume 12, Chapter 1: Everyone's Weekend

This chapter is updated by NovelFree.ml

Part 1

Friday, April 23

The Higashihongan family has been protecting the Higashihongan shrine as the head priests for many generations. With a long lasting history, the branch shrine that is the Higashihongan shrine has existed for over 500 years. And the main shrine, the Hongan shrine, has existed for longer than there exists records of it.

Because of their long history, the Higashihongan family owns vast lands and assets, and they are one of the few distinct families in Harukaze city. Thanks to that, their land is the size of a baseball stadium, with a large and luxurious Japanese-styled mansion on it and a garden that has been devised in such a way that all four seasons can be enjoyed to their fullest within their land.

“I-I've come to a helluva place...”

Having been guided to the guest room, Yurika looked around with restless eyes. Normally she lived in the wardrobe of a small six tatami mat big room, so to her, this place was like a different world. Despite sitting in a wide room, she couldn't take it easy, and was instead only getting more and more anxious.

Ahh! Save me, Satomi-san!

Yurika instinctively called out for her roommate’s help in her mind. This room also had a very luxurious feel to it. Though it wasn't a room that had been covered in gold to show off riches, as Yurika sat all alone in the room surrounded by the finely crafted pillars, the lacquered furniture, and the magnificent drawings on the wall, she felt like she was being looked down on by the rich. It was like her surroundings were telling her that this was no place for a poor girl like her and to hurry on out of here and go to somewhere more fitting for her. Of course, this was all just Yurika's complex. In fact, the residents of this mansion had welcomed her in with utmost care and were far from looking down on her.

“I am sorry for calling for you, Yurika-chan.”

As proof of this, a resident of this mansion entered the guest room with a smile.

Her name was Higashihongan Kanae. She was the wife of the current head of the family, Higashihongan Soutarou, and the mother of Yurika's friend, Sanae.

“I wanted to talk to you in peace and quiet. About Nana-chan for example.”

Yurika and Kanae had a common acquaintance.

Part 2

On a certain Friday after school, Yurika had visited the Higashihongan family on her own. This was because when she had visited this mansion before with Theia and the others, Kanae had asked if she could come by another day so that the two could talk. So Yurika took some time off, though she didn't have much to take time off from, to come visit the Higashihongan family.

“Yurika-chan, could you stand up and spin around to show me that outfit?”

“Ah, Yes!...Like this?”

Yurika accepted Kanae's request and stood up before slowly rotating around. Staring at Yurika, Kanae had a nostalgic look in her eyes.

“Thank you, Yurika-chan. Though some small details have changed, it really is the outfit Nana-chan had.”

“Yes. These are Nana-san's clothes that I adjusted for myself. I... am a bit taller than Nana-san... so I couldn't wear them like they were...”

“That's true. Nana-chan was pretty small... Thank you, Yurika-chan.”

Kanae gently smiled at Yurika who seemed to be quite embarrassed. Yurika was embarrassed because there were problems with her adjustments. Nana had a very delicate body, so Yurika couldn't wear the outfit unless she made the area around the waist and butt larger. The only adjustment she could boast about would be the adjustment around the chest region.

“So... is Nana-chan okay?”

Kanae waited for Yurika to sit back down before continuing to speak. As she voiced her question, some anxiety could be seen in her expression. She had invited Yurika because she wanted to ask this question.

“Yes. But around spring last year, she was seriously injured and can no longer use magic... That's why I, her disciple, took on her role.”

“So that's what happened...”

Hearing that Nana was safe was enough for the tension in Kanae's expression to go away. Seeing that, Yurika could sense what kind of relationship Kanae and Nana had.

“Kanae-san, you cooperated with Nana-san, right?”

A cooperator was a Japanese that helped a magician from Folsaria when they were operating in Japan.

Since the magicians came from Folsaria, a different world, they were technically illegal aliens. Because of that, they are not registered anywhere on Earth. So for them to operate in Japan, they need someone to cooperate with them.

“Yes... Until a little after we defeated Maya, Dark Navy.”

Maya was Maki's master and the previous Dark Navy. Nana had defeated Maya with Kanae's cooperation. Because of that, Maya retired and allowed for Maki to succeed her as Dark Navy. Those were the events of several years ago.

“After that, Nana-chan left without saying a word.... so I was a little worried. I'm happy to hear that she's okay, Yurika-chan.”

“Kanae-san, Nana-san was, uhm...”

“I know. Nana-chan left in order to not put our lives in dangers.”

“Yes.”

“There was also the problem with Sanae's body, so I'm sure she wanted to relieve me of my role as fast as possible.”

“I think so too. Nana-san always said to stop coming to see her because it was dangerous too...”

Eleven years ago, Nana had been unable to fully save Sanae. She was only able to perform an imperfect merging of Sanae's soul with her body with her magic, so she had expected that Sanae's life would eventually end. That's why in order for Kanae to spend as much time with her family as possible, Nana had quietly left. Or so Yurika and Kanae thought.

“About Sanae... could it be because of you that she's gotten more energetic?”

There was one more thing on Kanae's mind apart from Nana's safety, and that was the reason for her daughter's sudden recovery.

Kanae had been told by Nana that Sanae wouldn't live for long. In fact, as the years passed on, Sanae grew weaker and weaker. But just as Kanae had prepared for her daughter's death, Sanae's condition suddenly improved. And shortly thereafter, Sanae brought home Yurika as her friend. Seeing what Yurika had with her, Kanae reached a certain conclusion, and that was that Yurika had healed Sanae with magic.

“I did help, but magic alone couldn't have saved her... Uhm, about one quarter of it was my doing.”

Since Yurika's skills with magic were inferior to Nana's, she couldn't save Sanae on her own. In fact, Kiriha had been the one to treat Sanae while she was supporting her. And Yurika believed the biggest reason Sanae had been saved was because of the bonds she had to the people around her. She thought of her own actions as half of half the work, or one fourth.

“The ratio doesn't matter. Thank you for saving Sanae, Yurika-chan.”

“U-Uhm...”

Being directly thanked by Kanae, Yurika blushed and was flustered.

I-It's kind of been strange lately...

Recently, there had been more cases of Yurika being thanked, trusted and needed. Since this was something she couldn't imagine up until now, Yurika was embarrassed by this situation. This was because she hadn't noticed her own growth, so she believed her surroundings had suddenly changed.

But... I kinda feel really happy...

And while she felt strange about the change in her surroundings, she also felt happy. The sensation that she could be of help to others made her more positive. Although she wasn't as good as Nana, if she did everything she could, she might be able to save someone like she had with Sanae. That's what she felt like doing, and that was her original goal to begin with. In other words, one could say that the incident regarding Sanae turned Yurika into a full-fledged magical girl. And thanks to her maturing, her abilities were improving as well. While she might still not compare to the Nana of the past right now, she might in the future. Right now, Yurika was no longer pessimistic and was instead starting to believe in her own future.

“Besides, when she is with you, Sanae acts like she has returned to what she used to be like... As her parent, I couldn’t be happier. I guess I have to show some gratitude for that as well. Thank you, Yurika-chan.”

Thanks to the hard work of Yurika and the others, the two Sanaes managed to return as one, but it would be a stretch to say that they were now one and the same.

Normally, the modest personality developed by Sanae's body is on the surface. While Sanae was struggling against her disease, she had to restrain herself in order to not get sick, causing her personality to become more modest.

However, when she was with Yurika, Koutarou and the others, her personality as a ghost that was carved into her soul surfaces. This personality is the one she had before her soul and body split, and it's more active than if she had matured normally in her body. Simply put, it is a lot more childish.

Though the two managed to safely merge, their personalities weren't quite blending in, and they would suddenly switch between the two. When she was with Yurika and the others, she is bright and cheerful, and when she is not, she is a lot more withdrawn. As a result, it looked like she was putting up a brave front or was suffering from multiple personality disorder. However, they shared memories and still liked and hated the same things, so it could still be argued that they are one.

On top of that, to Kanae and her family, Sanae acts and looks like she did before the entire ordeal when she was with Yurika and the others. Since Kanae and the others were bothered by Sanae's modest personality ever since she was admitted to the hospital, this was a welcome change.

According to Kiriha's explanation it seems like Sanae’s two personalities would eventually blend into one. Once fully merged, Sanae's personality would probably end up somewhere between the modest Sanae and the active Sanae. Kiriha said that it would probably be close to the personality Sanae would develop if her soul hadn't split from her body to begin with.

And that change had already started. Even when Sanae isn't beside Yurika, Koutarou and the others, she was a little more cheerful.

“But... it really wasn't just thanks to me. Everything worked out because Sanae-chan loves everyone and because everyone loves Sanae-chan.”

Yurika lightly shook her head and put her hands on her chest before tilting her head and smiling.

“So Kanae-san, if possible, I want you to be grateful for the feelings Sanae-chan and everyone share for each other. That is what saved Sanae-chan...”

“Yurika-chan...”

Hearing Yurika's answer, Kanae's eyes opened wide. But they soon thereafter narrowed and she smiled at Yurika. Her expression at this time looked really happy, as if she had found something nostalgic.

“...You really are Nana-chan's disciple.”

“Eh?”

This time, Yurika opened her eyes in surprise.

“That earnest heart trying to do right, that strong will that won't lose to anything and that deep love that wraps around everything... You are just like Nana-chan.”

The words spoken by Kanae had more than enough power to surprise Yurika.

“Kanae-san...”

To Yurika who was striving to become like Nana, these words were the best kind of praise she could receive.

“Thank you very much!”

“Fufufu... I just hope my girl could turn out like you...”

“I can't recommend that. I don't have very good grades...”

"Oh my, is that so?”

“Sadly, yes...”

Like that, the two began chatting about themselves and their common friend with smiles on their faces. It was as if two old friends had met for the first time in ten years, so lively chatter could be heard from the guest room until the sun set.

Part 3

During their talk, Yurika gave Kanae a simple introduction to everyone's situation and about Sanae. She believed that Kanae would keep it a secret, so Yurika spoke in a casual manner. Kanae did the same as she happily listened to Yurika. But when Yurika got to the part where Kiriha used a machine that used spiritual energy, Kanae furrowed her brows and took Yurika out to the city at night.

“This is the place, Yurika-chan.”

“This is pretty dark...”

“Wait a moment, I'll put the lights on right now.”

“Continue All Light.”

“Right, Yurika-chan was a magician.”

“Yes.”

Kanae had taken Yurika to the basement of a certain building. It was an abandoned building that hadn't seen use in years, so when Yurika lit it up with her magic, she could see unlawfully dumped consumer electronics and cars, as well as a bunch of cracks in the walls and ceiling.

“Is there something about these ruins?”

It didn't look too out of place for Yurika, as it looked like any other ruins.

“Just a moment... I think it was around here...”

Relying on Yurika's magic to light up the area, Kanae searched her vicinity. After a few minutes had passed and Yurika began fearing the darkness of the ruins, Kanae finally found what she was looking for.

“Found it!”

“Kyaa!?”

“What's wrong, Yurika-chan?”

“N-No, it's nothing...”

Since she was a magical girl, Yurika blushed as she couldn't say that she was afraid of the dark. Unaware of Yurika's situation, Kanae called her over to herself.

“Yurika, could you come over here.”

“Okay.”

Yurika tilted her head while approaching Kanae. Kanae had a serious expression on her face, much different from what she had shown a moment before.

“It's about this...”

“This is...”

Yurika could see the remains of a destroyed machine. It seemed like the machine had been destroyed by a violent attack and fragments of all sizes were scattered about. And looking at the corrosion and dust gathered on the fragments, it became clear that many years had passed since the machine was destroyed.

“Huh!? Isn't this!?”

Yurika who wasn't big on machinery just assumed it was some broken device, but after staring at it for a while, she noticed a familiar seal and design.

“Isn't this Kiriha-san's device!?”

The remains of the machine looked just like what Kiriha had. It had the same unique traits to it like Karama, Korama and the device used to treat Sanae. They had clear common features that even Yurika could distinguish.

“Spiritual energy devices belong to the underground people... so why would it be in a place like this?”

“This is what Dark Navy... uhm, more accurately the previous Dark Navy, was using. Yurika-chan, look down.”

“Ah!?”

Yurika could see some kind of pattern carved into the ground by her feet. It had completely lost its power, but it was a magical circle used for rituals. As a magician, Yurika quickly understood what that meant.

“Kanae-san, did the previous Dark Navy use magic and machines from the underground people together!?”

“If this is a machine the underground people uses then there is no doubt about it. Nana-chan said that Maya was using this device to store her sacrifice's spiritual energy in order to use it for her ritual.”

Hearing Yurika's story about Sanae, Kanae was reminded of this place. She then determined that it would be better if Yurika took a look for herself, and so she guided her here.

“...Which means that at the very least, Darkness Rainbow came into contact with the underground people ten years ago and worked together...”

Yurika's expression stiffened as she felt a chill run down her spine.

I-I have to hurry and talk to Kiriha-san about this!

Thinking back about the time when they had used magic and a spiritual energy device to save Sanae, it was hard to imagine just how much power one could gain from using the two together. And when considering that Darkness Rainbow came into contact with the underground people ten years ago, and those people most likely being from the faction that stood against Kiriha, one could imagine that Rainbow Darkness could use spiritual energy to fight against Rainbow Heart, and at the same time, the radical faction that stood against Kiriha would be able to use magic.

At this rate, Rainbow Heart will lose! Kiriha-san too!

Of course, the opponent wouldn't show their ace up their sleeve during small skirmishes, they would instead save them for a major battle.

Thinking about that, Yurika couldn't imagine that Rainbow Heart or Kiriha would have an easy time.

Part 4

Today, there were no club activities after school for the knitting society. The current president, Harumi, had an examination scheduled in the hospital tomorrow, so it was common practice for the society to take the day before off to rest.

Having suddenly gotten some free time on his hands, Koutarou decided to visit Clan. He hadn't talked a lot with Clan lately, but she had been of help often during important events. He figured that he should go see her without bringing with him any problems.

“Clan, are you shutting yourself in again?”

“If I don't shut myself in, I can't get any research done.”

When Koutarou entered the Cradle, Clan was facing a computer in her laboratory. She had a ton of topics she wanted to research, such as Signaltin and time and space. Seeing Clan like that, Koutarou got a little worried. Since Clan wasn't in any sunlight and barely moved, her complexion was getting a little worse. Bothered by that, he wanted to bring her outside.

“That might be true, but you are a princess. If you keep shutting yourself in and ruining your complexion, your citizens will worry.”

“My, Bertorion, you speak like a vassal... Did you finally decide to serve me?”

“I have no intentions of serving someone so unhealthy. I’m just worried about your future.”

“M-My future!?”

Hearing those words, Clan's face turned red and she began to panic.

“I don't need you to tell me that. By the time I get married, I will take good care of my physical condition!”

“Hm? Marriage? What are you talking about?”

At this point, Koutarou only thought that Clan wouldn't be able to live if she collapsed, but Clan took this in a different way.

“Are you getting married to someone?”

“Kya Kya Kya! N-No I am not! There's no way I'll marry someone!!”

Clan blushed so hard even her ears turned red as she intensely shook her head so fast that even her glasses were thrown around.

“Hmm, so you have no intentions of marrying. What a shame.”

“...I-I'll kill him... I'll kill this man...”

With her face still red and looking down, Clan's shoulders shook. She wanted to tell Koutarou 'In that case, why don't you marry me'. In the past, Clan had pushed others away to focus on her research all on her own; she was that self-conceited and selfish. There hadn't been anyone else that she had allowed to get as close to her as Koutarou. That's why when she thought of her own future, of her marriage, Koutarou's face naturally appeared in her mind. But she didn't have the courage to say that out loud. Clan was far more pure than her appearance let on.

“Well, that aside, Ruth-san who is a proper citizen of Forthorthe is here too so don't show her too miserable of an appearance.”

“T-That aside?...This man just shoved my feelings to the side... I'll kill him... I really will kill him...”

Clan's face was still red and her shoulders continued shaking from frustration and anger. Ruth who was nearby then whispered in a small voice only Clan could hear.

“...I understand how you must feel, Clan-sama.”

Ruth had a wry smile on her face as she whispered.

Ruth had come with Koutarou to visit Clan. When she heard that Koutarou was going to see Clan she offered to come with him. Since Ruth and Clan shared Koutarou's secret, their relationship had been turning to a positive one.

“I'm surprised you can stay sane while you're always hearing this.”

“I have already conveyed my feelings to Master...”

Clan and Ruth started talking in secret. Koutarou was busy staring around the laboratory in awe so he didn't hear what the two were talking about.

“So what happened?”

“Nothing remarkable. But every day is full of happiness.”

“That doesn't sound like something I could do. I have my own pride after all.”

“Pride?”

“One day I will make Bertorion cry while begging 'Please keep me at your side'.”

Clan said so with a disappointed expression.

“Clan-sama...”

Hearing those words, Ruth stifled her voice and began laughing.

“What's the matter, Pardomshiha?”

“N-No, It's nothing... fufu, fufufufu.”

Ruth was laughing because the meaning behind Clan's words were practically the same as Theia's. But since Theia and Clan's relationship still had ways to go, Ruth couldn't reveal the reason for why she was laughing.

Part 5

Koutarou took Clan and Ruth with him and left the Cradle. This was because Koutarou wanted Clan to get some sunlight, but he also had another reason. In fact, there was something he wanted to ask of Clan, and that had been part of the reason for why he had come to see her.

“Here I go, Ruth-san.”

"Okay. Should I do it like I did before?”

“Please do.”

Koutarou and Ruth were both carrying weapons and protection while facing each other.

Koutarou was wearing a blue armor used to control the spaceship, the Blue Knight. In both of his hands was a knight's sword each. However, both of the blades were blunted, and Ruth was using a protective barrier so there was no fear of injuries.

Ruth was also wearing an armor designed for combat. Like with Koutarou, it was also powered and it increased Ruth's strength significantly. She was holding a thin sword in her right hand. However, this sword was a little heavier and larger than what she normally used. It was this way to match her increase in strength and to balance her better due to her armor. Of course, this weapon was also blunted.

Koutarou and Ruth had been sparring like this for a while. Koutarou wanted to show Clan how he and Ruth fought.

“Alright.”

Koutarou kicked off the ground and dashed forward. His power was increased by the armor and he moved at a speed that showed that the armor wasn't weighing him down. With his right sword ready to swing and his left sword in front of him, he approached Ruth.

“Here he comes.”

Ruth took a stance and stood ready to face Koutarou who was rapidly approaching. Her stance at this time was defensive; as she had such a peaceful personality, her stance naturally turned out that way. Her style was to defend and go for counter attacks. However, she was focused even more on defense this time around since Koutarou had asked her to put up a solid defense.

“Phuu.”

Koutarou exhaled briefly before swinging the sword in his left hand.

A shrill sound rang out, and before the sound could disappear the sword in his right hand was swung down towards Ruth. However, Ruth was able to dodge this attack by twisting her body.

“Haa!”

However, that wasn't all Ruth did. Using the mobility of her thin sword to the best of its capabilities, Ruth launched an attack at Koutarou. The tip of her sword created a sharp whooshing noise as it cut through the air and headed towards him.

“Uwa!?”

Koutarou kicked off the ground and managed to evade Ruth's attack.

“Chance!”

However, because of that forced movement, a large opening appeared in Koutarou's stance. Ruth went and launched several attacks towards him. Since Ruth was serious, diligent and wanted to show off her good side to Koutarou, she had practiced at great lengths. And her continuous attack was an elegant one without any wasted movements. All Koutarou could do was bring up his swords to use them as shields.

“Y-You've gotten better, Ruth-san!”

"That's because my teacher was good!”

Koutarou and Ruth's match continued for a while. Ruth was dominant the entire match, using her swift attacks to force Koutarou on the defensive. Based on the fact that the defensive girl was taking the offensive, one could say that she was overwhelming Koutarou.

“Ei.”

Ruth easily deflected Koutarou's right sword with a smile on her face. She then closed in and thrust out her left fist. The fist was wrapped in red light as the armor read Ruth's intentions and filled her fist with energy to attack.

“Kuh.”

I won't make it at this rate!

Koutarou decided to abandon his left sword and swung out his own left fist. Because of the timing, Koutarou's sword wouldn't make it, so his fist started to fill with electricity and release sparks. This electricity was thanks to Kiriha's gauntlet which had been incorporated into Koutarou's armor.

The two's fists collided and cancelled each other's attacks out. Thanks to that, this attack didn't end their battle, but the two stopped moving.

“You have really improved, Ruth-san.”

“Fufufu, that's because I haven't missed a single thing you've said, Master.”

“Then I better take care not to say anything strange.”

“Aha, you don't have to worry, because I quickly forget about things inconvenient to you, Master.”

The two smiled at each other and lowered their weapons. Though their battle hadn't reached a conclusion, what they needed to do had been done.

“...So there you have it, it goes something like this. What do you think, Clan?”

Koutarou returned his right sword to its sheath and picked up the other sword he had dropped. As he put that sword into its sheath, he approached Clan.

“Frankly put, I can't recommend using two swords at the same time in this state.”

Clan operated her bracelet while shaking her head. Then several holograms projected by her bracelet appeared in her surroundings. The holograms consisted of footage and sound from Koutarou and Ruth's battle, along with data extracted from their fight.

“I've recorded you fighting with a single sword, holding two swords and only using one and using two swords at the same time... but only the first two uses seem practical. In close combat, just holding two swords is dangerous.”

“I thought so.”

Koutarou agreed with Clan's answer and nodded his head.

Koutarou wanted to consult Clan about how he should use his swords. Signaltin enchanted with magic and Saguratin infused with Sanae's spiritual energy both had their own unique traits, and he had to think of how he should use them.

In total, Koutarou could think of three different usages.

The first was to keep fighting with a single sword like he had up until now, and then change his sword based on the situation. Though it would take time to switch, the fact that he didn't need to change his fighting style was an attractive method.

The second way was to hold one sword in each hand, but only using one at a time like the fight against the monster with Sanae a few weeks ago. Back then it was a sort of last resort, but not having to waste time changing weapons was a logical method.

The third way was to dual wield and use both of swords at the same time. Though the difficulty increased significantly, it was the most convenient way to use the swords. In this case, Koutarou would be able to respond to situations flexibly.

Koutarou's ideal was of course to dual wield them, but since he realized how difficult that would be, he had come to consult Clan.

“When I'm wearing the armor, I can't feel the heaviness of the swords, but I end up being swung around by them.”

Without the armor, using two swords at once was not realistic. The knight sword was a little too big to be used with one hand and the momentum from swinging one had a great effect on the user. Koutarou figured that he would be alright if he wore the armor, but the results were unsatisfactory. He also wanted to know the reason behind that.

“The problem isn't with the weight you feel, but with the mass. The armor might take the load off the body, but that doesn't change the mass of the sword, so the centrifugal force and inertia are the same. If anything, it will get even worse when you swing even faster with the strengthened power from the armor.”

“Clan-sama, does that mean that when attacking with two swords at once, you have to change your technique?”

“Based on the results from the data, that would be the case. Using two knight swords at once would mean you would have to invent a new style of sword fighting. It is not a very realistic proposition.”

Using two long swords at the same time meant that their movements would get in the way of one another. On top of that, the mass of the swords would affect Koutarou so he would have to use techniques developed specifically for this.

“If it's just about offensive power, then doing what you two did at the end and using the built-in weapons in your left hands would be far better.”

Using two swords at once was unrealistic. In that case, letting go off the sword with one hand and using the weapon built in to the left hand would be better. That was the conclusion Clan reached based on her data.

“I see. If you say it's impossible, then there's no doubting it.”

Clan's conclusion was the same as Koutarou's sensation. Having proved this with his own sensations, Koutarou accepted this result.

“I will come up with something regarding how to use the swords.”

“...Those words bother me.”

Koutarou was satisfied, but Clan was not. Her eyes behind her beloved antique glasses were filled with irritation as she frowned. She looked like a young girl throwing a tantrum.

“What are you getting so angry for?”

“It's not impossible for me! You take that back!”

Clan couldn't forgive that Koutarou thought there was something she couldn't do.

“If you say it's impossible.”

To Clan, those words were the same as she wasn't being trusted.

“But you just said that it wasn't realistic...”

“That was just a generalization!”

Clan reached out her hand towards Koutarou and began to irritatingly poke at his chest with the tip of her finger.

“I will become your master!! As if I could allow there to be something impossible for me!!”

Clan admitted that Koutarou was the legendary Blue Knight. So in order to become his master, she was prepared to surpass his legend with her skills in science. Right now, she was aiming to become Koutarou's master in both name and reality.

“So can you do it?”

“A foolish question! All you have to do is beg me! To say, ‘Oh, Princess Clariossa, please lend me your power’! You have that right!!”

“Clan...”

With his arms crossed, Koutarou looked at Clan who had thrown her head back and realized his mistake.

To people that get along well, this might mean to expect good things from the future...

The solution to this problem was far more difficult than the devices Koutarou had asked Clan to make to practice with. That's why Koutarou didn't want to ask for the impossible.

But that might have been a mistake.

Thanks to the invader girls, Koutarou had realized that he tended not to expect anything from others. In other words, Koutarou only requested things from others in a narrower range than what they really could do.

It seems like that was the problem this time around. Koutarou could have expected Clan to solve this problem.

“I'm sorry. It's just as you say.”

“You may reflect on your actions to your heart's content.”

“But Clan.”

“What?”

“I don't want to ask princess Clariossa, but you, Clan. Could you do it, Clan?”

“That...”

At this moment, Clan's expression froze up.

Princess Clariossa and Clan both referred to the same person, but Koutarou was asking Clan. The Blue Knight wasn't asking princess Clariossa. This was a request from a partner that she had gone through hardships with and who hoped to continue to be partners in the future as well.

Clan properly understood the meaning behind those words. That's why her expression soon unfroze and she smiled at Koutarou.

“That much is obvious. Who do you think I am?”

“A slightly sly, stubborn but always reliable girl.”

“As long as you know that. Leave it to me, Koutarou.”

“Yeah, thanks, Clan.”

“Then I'll get to work immediately.... fufu, fufufufu....”

Koutarou had said the word sly, but as of late, there hadn't been any slyness in Clan's expressions. And right now, she had such a bright smile she looked like she might break into dance at any moment.

Part 6

Clan's idea was to use the armor's gravity inertia control to control the mass of the swords as needed. If she succeeded, Koutarou should be able to use two swords with the same sense he had been cultivating so far.

However, there were of course many difficulties. Not only did the mass control system for the swords need to derive its data from Koutarou’s movements, but the problem with the two swords interfering with one another needed to be taken into consideration as well. Other people might be able to solve each problem separately, but only Clan could solve the incredibly difficult task of solving all these problems at once.

Clan took Koutarou and Ruth back to her laboratory and took several measurements on Koutarou and the armor. She also took the operation data from Ruth's armor. After this, she would throw the data into her computer and calculate the required parameters.

“But still, it won't be possible today or tomorrow.”

“I know. I'm not asking for that much.”

“I'll also need to perform some adjustments so come back again after a while.”

“Yeah.”

“Thank you very much.”

However, a large amount of time would be needed to calculate those parameters. So Koutarou and Ruth decided to leave the rest to Clan and head home.

“Then I'll see you later, Clan.”

“I will take my leave, Clan-sama.”

Koutarou lightly waved his hand at Clan while Ruth deeply bowed. That was when Clan sent a questioning glance towards Ruth.

“...Say, Pardomshiha, don't you suspect that I would try to do something with you even giving me access to the Blue Knight?”

Koutarou's armor was originally a part of the controls for the spaceship, the Blue Knight. That's why Clan couldn't touch up on the armor without Koutarou or Ruth, the registered users for the armor, by her side. Clan had only been able to perform repairs to the armor in the past Forthorthe because Koutarou had been with her and given his permission.

But now Koutarou had his life to take care of, so he couldn't stay by Clan's side all this time. So Ruth decided to register Clan as a crew member of the Blue Knight so that she could modify the armor.

Clan wasn't sure why Ruth would do that as if she didn't have a sense of danger.

“Could it be that you wish to perform maintenance on the entire Blue Knight!?”

Ruth's eyes sparkled. There was not a single fiber in her body that believed that Clan would perform an evil deed.

“No! I'm talking about setting up a backdoor into the system or setting up traps on board the ship!”

Ruth's carefree attitude confused Clan. Just a little while ago, she had been Theia and Ruth's enemy.

“Haah... why would you do that? Would it be for a surprise party or something?”

Clan's intentions didn't seem to reach Ruth as she blinked repeatedly and looked with a confused expression at Clan.

“Of course not! Geez! I'm asking if you're not worried that I might eliminate Theiamillis-san to raise my position in the rights to the throne!”

Eventually Clan got annoyed by Ruth's lack of worry. As a result, she directly spoke what she had been insinuating. And Ruth was finally able to understand what Clan was trying to say.

“No, not really.”

Ruth shook her head and her short, arranged hair flapped around.

“Why not?”

“That's because right now, you don't wish to become empress through such methods, Clan-sama.”

Ruth then put her hands on her chest and smiled at Clan.

“Pardomshiha...”

Having seen Alaia up close, Clan now knew what it meant to be a princess and and an empress. At the very least, if she wasn't a princess that the Blue Knight, Koutarou, would accept, she was not suitable to be empress. That's why Clan was planning on winning against Theia fair and square. She wouldn't get in Theia's way, and if needed, she would challenge her up front. If she didn't, she would never be able to become someone that could surpass Alaia.

Ruth had realized this. She had seen this from her behavior and her relationship with Koutarou. Though she might have read Clan's behavior wrongly, she wouldn't do the same with Clan's relationship with Koutarou. Ruth was very confident in her own judgment.

“Clan, you are just thinking too hard about it. I'm always telling you aren't I?”

Koutarou smiled next to Ruth as well.

“Koutarou...”

When he did, Clan's face turned a little red. She wasn't used to having a man she was close to speak so friendly to her.

“Being so sly, you wouldn't do anything evil that would leave evidence behind, right? You elegantly do evil in a way that no one would find out about. You're not the type that would do something as a registered user. Believe in yourself more.”

However, Koutarou's next words instantly inverted Clan's feelings. Her expression turned into one of anger and her face turned even redder as she shouted at Koutarou.

“Quit messing around! As if someone who seeks to become the empress of Forthorthe would trap others! Something like that would―”

“That's right. It's just as you say.”

However, Koutarou put his hand on Clan's head before she could finish shouting. And as if praising a child, he tapped her head repeatedly.

“Ah...”

“It's alright, don't worry. Both me and Ruth-san believe in you. The others might not do so yet, but they will eventually. Theia will too.”

Koutarou and Ruth smiled and stared at Clan's face.

“A-Auu...”

This caused Clan's face to turn even redder and she turned her eyes down as if to escape.

Clan had asked Ruth her question because she was worried if Ruth really trusted her since they were enemies before. But in the end, it seemed like that worry was for nothing. And Koutarou had called her sly on purpose to get her angry and draw out her true intentions. Having realized that, Clan was unable to raise her head from relief and embarrassment.

“Clan, believe in yourself more.”

"...I'll hold off on killing you for now, Koutarou...”

Clan mumbled as she put her hands on her chest. As she did, she could feel her own heat and elevated heart beat.

I would bet my life on this feeling... but to think this kind of feeling was resting inside of me...

In the past, Clan had only thought of others as being disposable after their use had expired. However, having stepped out of her laboratory on a whim, she had learned the importance of it. Clan herself thought it was strange, but now she loved others and the world. And Clan felt happy about it.

“Hmm? What was that?”

“It was nothing.”

Clan spun around and showed her back to Koutarou and Ruth and headed towards a shelf.

“...Pardomshiha, let me give you something good.”

"Clan-sama?”

“Here they are, take these.”

Clan then pulled out something from the shelf and brought it to Ruth.

Clan was holding two metallic sticks in her hand. They were just about the same size as batons used in relays.

“These are... beam swords, correct?”

By emitting a beam from the stick, a sword is made; they were so called beam swords. She knew that, but Ruth couldn't understand why she had been given the swords and she looked at Clan with a confused expression.

“Yes. As a sign of our friendship, I will give you these.”

As Clan nodded and smiled, Koutarou tapped Clan on the head again.

“Oh... You do have a good side to you Clan.”

Koutarou knew very well what the meaning behind this present was.

“Auu...”

Clan's face turned red once more and she turned her face away from Koutarou. She really wasn't used to receiving compliments from people close to her.

“What do you mean, Master?”

Ruth asked not Clan who had fallen silent, but Koutarou. She still didn't understand the meaning behind the present.

“Actually, these are the swords Lord Flairhan used. You know, the swords of light that appeared in legend.”

“These are!? Is that true!?”

The moment Ruth heard Koutarou's explanation, her eyes shot open and she stared in astonishment. The two beam swords in her hand held a very big meaning to the Pardomshiha family. They were the weapons of one of the characters that appeared in the legend of the Blue Knight, Flairhan Pardomshiha, that she had used in the final battle of the coup d'etat.

“Yes, I guarantee it.”

“To think they actually existed...”

Ruth had a tight grip around the swords as her eyes moistened.

The two swords of light that could cut through anything. Since they were described as magic swords, historians doubted they even existed. But in reality they did, and they were now in Ruth's hands. Holding the weapons of her greatest ancestor in her hands, Ruth was moved to tears.

“W-Well, it's not something that can be made public, and there's no point in me holding onto them. So you take them.”

“Thank you very much, Clan-sama! I will take great care of them!”

“W-What an exaggerated reaction, they are just beam swords...”

Attempting to escape from Ruth who was repeatedly bowing her head deeply, Clan returned to her desk.

“...Hey, Clan, let me teach you something.”

Seeing Clan like that, Koutarou gave off a small smile.

“...W-What?”

Clan moved just her eyes to look at Koutarou. She was too embarrassed to turn her face towards him.

“Playing the villain is not possible for you anymore. How about you realize who you are now?”

“...T-That's none of your business! You're always calling me sly!”

“If I don't, I'd have to treat you like a princess.”

“Then do so!!”

“Are you seriously saying that?”

"Uuhh... Not really...”

Clan became flustered, adjusted her glasses and grabbed the hems of her skirt.

“I am your partner, and accomplice, then there's also... uhm...”

“Clan.”

"W-What?”

“Thank you for everything. You're a great help.”

“Wha!?”

Koutarou's next words made Clan's eyes pop out.

“I hope you can take care of me in the future as well.”

“...Uh... Auu...”

Clan tried to retort, but she was unable to form words. Shortly afterwards, Clan glanced at Koutarou through her glasses with a grudge in her eyes. And then she finally managed to squeeze out of a few words.

“...Geez... I really will kill you...”

As Koutarou looked at Clan's eyes he thought to himself–

“Yeah. Come kill me whenever you want. How about a day when Ruth prepares some snacks?”

“Idiot...”

–that he was really happy to have been able to reconcile with Clan.

Part 7

At first, the room in which the girl known as Aika Maki lived in was very empty.

She would only be staying at this city until she had completed her objective, that was why she hadn't kept anything but the most necessary things in her room. It was a room similar to a business man's out-of-town hotel room. And without any superfluous decorations, it didn't look like a room a girl in her teens lived in.

However, after the new year began, Maki's room had started getting brighter.

Clothes of many vivid colors were hung up on the clothes rack, and by the bed was a dressing table that wasn't there last year. In the dressing table were tools for make-up, though few in numbers. Moreover, her plain table now had a checkered tablecloth over it, and next to it lay two large cushions. And wallpapers now covered the concrete wall. There was also many other small changes.

It was no longer the empty room of the past. In a few months, the room had changed, and while it was still simple, it was changing it to a room fitting for a teenage girl.

“Which one should I try next... A little too much exposure would be embarrassing, so how about this white one.... But won't it be seen as childish with it being so frilly...”

Maki was standing in her colorful room all alone while holding her own fashion show. She alternated between her newly bought clothes and her favorite clothes while trying to decide what to wear the coming weekend.

“If I match it with this white ribbon, it will probably look cute, so even if it's a little childish... but I will be getting on rides, so if I wear clothes with too many accessories it might get in the way...”

Clothes, purse, accessories and make-up.

Maki didn't have a lot of each to choose from, but there were countless combinations, and she was trying to find the best combination. Because of that, she had been working hard on this since she came home.

“But... all the girls around Satomi-kun leave such a strong impression, so I should pick something flashing... No,no, I shouldn't force it...”

In fact, Maki had an appointment to go out to play tomorrow. She would be going out with some classmates she got along with to visit an amusement park. The reason why she was holding her own fashion show was because she wanted to show off her cute side to one of them. She wanted to attract the attention of that person, and have him praise her.

“My underwear... I should just wear normal underwear.... He won't be seeing those tomorrow.... No, he might, depending on the attraction... then... I should pick these flashy ones.... Aah, it's too early for these!”

Having imagined something embarrassing, Maki grabbed a nearby cushion and buried her face into it. It was obvious what Maki wanted from her beloved person, but being a beginner at love, she didn't know the best method to achieve her desired result. That's why she continued to bury her face into the cushion. Her worries were deep.

“...What am I doing...”

After doing that for a while, Maki suddenly stopped. While still hugging her cushion, she looked up at the ceiling.

“...To think I had such girlish feelings inside me...”

Maki couldn't help but be confused.

Ever since she had been a child, she had lived a severe life and had been involved in fierce battles. During that time, she only thought of outsmarting others and using them. That's why she had been detached from feelings like love, to the point where she started believing that she could never experience such feelings.

However, her meeting with a certain boy had changed Maki's life.

If it's with him, I'm sure we can fill each other's solitude. We can save each other...

Her exchange with the boy had woken up such feelings in Maki. And by the time Maki realized her feelings, her surroundings completely changed. Everything around her looked like it was sparkling. Everything she did was funny. Having someone support her and supporting someone herself made Maki's life brighter. It was most likely the first glimpse of hope in her life.

“...I... could die for Satomi-kun's sake... and I used to think that only fools died for others...”

Maki had found value in her life for the first time ever. It was the first time she wished that these days would continue like this forever. Of course, since she had been caught up in battles since she was a child, it took time for her to admit those feelings. She also tried to play it off using various excuses, like saying it was necessary for her mission. But now, her feelings had grown to the point where she could no longer hide from them.

However, that deviated from the goals of Darkness Rainbow which she was a part of. Darkness Rainbow’s style was to fulfill your own wishes using the power of magic. However, Maki didn't want to force her way with magic any further. She only wished to continue living out these days. That meant that her Dark Navy self was being lost. However, she was not yet aware of that.

“Okay, let's do this. I have to draw Satomi-kun's attention somehow!”

Maki stood up, let go of the cushion and faced her clothes again.

Like this, Maki lived her days like a normal girl, not knowing what her actions really meant.

“...It looks like you're blending in well, Maki.”

However, the time those days would end had come. It was as sudden as when they had first started. And the one to let Maki know the end had come was the voice of someone she knew very well.

“You’ve even gotten a lot more feminine in the time I haven't seen you.”

When Maki hurriedly turned around in the direction of the voice, she saw a woman in an indigo robe very similar to her own.

“Maya-sama!?”

It was the previous Dark Navy, and Maki's master.

Part 8

Maya was injured in a battle against Nana several years ago and allowed for her disciple to succeed her.

Though the wound she had received wasn't fatal, it was serious enough for her to lose several parts of her body. As a result, Maya was reduced to a state where she couldn't even walk, let alone fight any further. Of course, accompanying the loss of the parts of her body, she also lost a lot of her magical power. That's why Maya's life as a soldier ended.

“Maya-sama, is your body alright!?”

"Yes. I found a superb doctor.”

That Maya was now standing in front of Maki on her own two legs. She had hidden her presence to the point that she could sneak up right next to Maki. In other words, it meant her life as a soldier had been recovered. That's why Maki was left speechless from surprise.

“That said, I haven't fully healed yet, so as part of my rehabilitation I came to cheer you on.”

While she spoke, Maya formed a fist with her right hand in front of Maki.

Amazing... such an elaborate artificial arm. Just where did she...?

Maki held her breath as she stared at Maya's right arm.

Maya's original right arm had been blown away during her battle with Nana, so her right arm should be artificial. However, it was expertly crafted, making it hard to tell whether it was artificial just by looking at it. Its texture was almost exactly the same as the rest of her body, and only some lines and markings on the arm hinted that it was artificial. However, simply claiming that it was a tattoo would be enough to convince people. Its movements were also very natural, and it looked like a real arm. It even had the same wasted movements found only in living beings incorporated in it.

An artificial arm as elaborate as this could not have been made in Folsaria. The same was true for modern science in Japan. That's why Maki realized that Maya must have had a very special cooperator.

“I also came to brag about my rejuvenated appearance to you.”

“Maya-sama...”

Artificial body parts of the same craft as her arm made up for the other parts of Maya's lost body. Her skin that had been mostly burned had been replaced with artificial material. As a result, Maya looked like she had gotten more than ten years younger. Maya was more than ten years older than Maki, but now they looked like they could be sisters.

“But you don't have to worry. I don't have any intentions on retaking the title of Dark Navy from you. Sadly, my magic capabilities are the same.”

The only weak point of her artificial body was that it couldn't be filled with magic power. Magicians focused the magical power in their bodies into a single point to cast spells. However, this artificial body didn't have the capability to create magical power. Though it was possible to supplement her body, it wasn't possible to supplement her magical power. Because of that, Maya's magical power was now at the same level as a standard magician. She didn't have the power needed to be a top leader of Darkness Rainbow.

“No, I would never be worried... I am glad to see you fine, Maya-sama.”

Maya is Maki's master. Seeing her master so healthy made her happy, and she naturally formed a smile.

“...You've changed, Maki. The you in the past would have been more cautious... could this be confidence from getting stronger?”

Seeing Maki like that, Maya smiled happily. But seeing her master's expression, Maki froze up instead.

Oh no, I acted like I would next to Satomi-kun...!

Ever since she had realized her own feelings, Maki began to spend her days happily. She no longer hurt others or doubted their motives. They were days not filled with hostility, but with friendship and love.

However, the original Dark Navy wasn't like that. Not only was she hostile towards the magical girls from Rainbow Heart, but power struggles occurred within Darkness Rainbow as well. Her everydays were filled with malice and hostility. Spending her life like that caused her heart to close off. The Maki of the past, the magical girl Dark Navy, had such a frozen and closed off heart.

I better make sure I don't get suspected or Satomi-kun will be in danger!

Having realized the change within her heart, Maki hurriedly gathered up the negative feelings within her. She didn't have much malice left within her, but for better or for worse, she had a sense of danger and anxiety. Imagining the person she loved in danger; those feelings swelled up and filled her chest.

“...It has been quite some time since I started naming myself as Dark Navy. I can't stay as your poor disciple forever.”

Those gathered ill feelings barely managed to recreate her mask as Dark Navy.

“That's true. I'm sorry, Dark Navy.”

Fortunately, Maya didn't suspect Maki.

Darkness Rainbow was a gathering of people without concern to begin with, and even if there was a change, one would suspect it was because of a mission or a plot. Maya had noticed a small change in Maki, but she thought it was just due to her objectives in this place. Or it could have been a plot to make use of Maya. Either way, she thought of it as something perfectly normal.

In Darkness Rainbow, people used others or are used themselves. The bond between master and disciple was nothing more than that.

“No, there is no need to apologize...”

Maki smiled without letting anything on, but in reality she was greatly shook.

...Just a while ago I was like this...

Maki could see a glimpse of her past self in Maya. She saw someone who didn't look for bonds with others and only thought of using others and of nothing being used herself. Seeing that, Maki couldn't help but feel fear that her beloved person would be attacked by Maya. And that image greatly shook her.

I have to protect him... I have to protect Satomi-kun from my darkness...

This city had changed Maki a lot, but the darkness and past she once carried with her had changed its appearance and shown up in front of Maki as Maya. Now, Maki's beloved person was now exposed to that threat. Her own existence threatened the existence of her beloved, and that gave Maki an unbearable pain.

Part 9

Maya wasn't the only one from Folsaria to pay a visit to Maki. Once Maki and Maya's greetings were over, the other two appeared in Maki's room. These two also had magical girl outfits similar to Maki's, but their colors were different: dark red and dark green. They were Maki's allies that went by the names Dark Crimson and Dark Green.

“Maki, you've gotten very girly in the short time we haven't seen each other.”

The girl in the red outfit, Dark Crimson, looked at Maki's clothes spread out throughout the room and smiled.

Dark Crimson had an active and unyielding personality. She only wanted to get stronger and fight powerful foes. Her frame of mind was similar to that of a martial artist. She strived to become the strongest magical girl and trained hard day and night. She specialized in energy type offensive magic.

Because of that personality, she didn't care much for being feminine. Dark Crimson had no makeup on her and her hair was unkempt, which moved as if it was flames. She had also removed the parts of her outfit that made it hard to move in, so its design was different. She was clean, but not very feminine. That was the kind of girl Dark Crimson was.

Dark Crimson felt a sense of closeness to Maki, who lacked almost as much femininity as her. Maki hated feigning who she really was, so she never wore makeup or fancy clothes. But that Maki had now changed, and to Dark Crimson, it made for good material to tease her.

“I am only doing it out of necessity.”

Maki frowned as she said that. Since she hated lies, this wasn't one. To the current Maki, being feminine was necessary.

“Well, I guess. There's no way Maki would do this because she wanted to... But, just thinking about it makes me laugh.”

However, Dark Crimson interpreted it differently from Maki. She didn't think Maki wanted to be feminine herself, but that she was reluctantly doing it because she had to do so for her mission.

“If you want to laugh just go ahead and do so.”

“T-Then I'll take you up on your word. Ahahahaha!”

Of course, Maki didn't correct that misunderstanding. There was no reason to reveal the truth and ruin her position. And since she wasn't doing it reluctantly, she wasn't particularly mortified.

I understand how you feel, Crimson.... Even I myself find it funny...

In fact, Maki was happy that Dark Crimson had misunderstood. While maintaining her unhappy expression, she felt a sense of relief that Dark Crimson was putting that dangerous topic aside.

“By the way, Green, what brought the two of you here?”

Maki left Dark Crimson laughing and turned to Dark Green who was standing next to her.

The girl wearing a dark green outfit was the shortest of the seven top leaders of Darkness Rainbow. Since she was standing next to Dark Crimson, the tallest of the seven, there was more than a head's difference in height.

“...We got free from our previous jobs at the same time Maya-san recovered, so we came to take a look at how it's going.”

Dark Green responded in a very proper manner as she adjusted her glasses. It wasn't just her height, but even her personality was the opposite of Dark Crimson’s. Her speciality was also the opposite, as she focused on fortune telling and illusions. She was a magician skilled in information gathering and interference.

“I said that I was fine alone.”

Dark Green's words made Maya drop her shoulders. As someone with a lot of pride and confidence, Maya wasn't very happy being told that she needed protection, even though she had just recovered.

“I believe in Maya-san's abilities as well, but I don't believe as much in that new body.”

“I can agree with that.”

Maya herself aside, it wasn't easy to place trust in the technology that supplemented parts of Maya's body. Maya felt the same herself and didn't complain any further.

“...So the three of us have gone on ahead. This time, our goal is to scout the surroundings of that magic power for our an all-out attack, and if possible, seize it for ourselves.”

Darkness Rainbow was after the magic power that gathered in room 106. They prioritized claiming that magic power, but in truth, they only wanted it as a means to complete their main goal, which was to destroy Rainbow Heart.

For that goal, Crimson and Green had received different missions as well. And due to sheer coincidence, Maya had returned to service with a new body just as they had finished their missions, so they came to Kitsushouharukaze city together.

Their true battle, the decisive battle against Rainbow Heart, lay beyond. If they were able to obtain the concentrated magic power, their position in the battle would be more advantageous. That was the reason behind Maki's reinforcement.

“What about the other four?”

“Purple-san is working on restraining Rainbow Heart. Yellow-san is making a weapon in preparation for the battle. Blue-san is still busy training her disciple, and Orange-san is helping her.”

“...So we're almost there...”

One year ago, in their battle against Rainbow Nana, five of the seven leaders of Darkness Rainbow had sustained severe injuries. As a result, Crimson, Orange and Yellow needed long-term treatment, while Blue and Green had to retire and give their titles to their disciples. That's why the Green standing in front of Maki was a different person than the Green from one year ago.

However, their situation had improved during the year and they had now started taking action again. Like Maki said, the decisive battle against Rainbow Heart was closing in, and the preliminary battle would be when they seize the magic power in room 106.

“It is obvious that whichever side controls this magic power during the final battle will have an advantage. So this is where it starts...”

Maki mumbled to herself with a severe expression as she realized the situation.

I have to keep Satomi-kun away from this battle...

There was a massive quantity of magic power in room 106. It was in a league of its own when compared to the other artifacts, powerful magical items that Maki and the others had gathered. It was suspected to be related to Signaltin and Encyclopedia, but Maki felt something else that kept her from being certain of that. And in the center of it all was her beloved. If she left this situation be, it was obvious that her beloved would become the center of the conflict. That's why Maki racked her head thinking of ways to avoid that.

“The ideal would be if we could seize it now, but if worse comes to worst, we have to seal it before the decisive battle.”

Maya continued on from where Maki left off. Darkness Rainbow's absolute priority was to make sure that Rainbow Heart didn't use this magic power themselves. Seizing the magic power came second.

“Then let's blow away the building around the magic power. If we clear the surroundings, they can't make any moves either.”

Listening to Maya's words, Crimson proposed a rough plan. The plan was that by destroying Corona House, neither side would be able to use the magic power. It was an unwritten law that magicians concealed magic from the society while on Earth. By removing the building, it would become impossible to do things in secret. Crimson's idea was simple and rough, but quite effective.

“We can't.”

However, Maki immediately rejected this plan.

“Why?”

Crimson was dissatisfied as she had confidence in her plan. Maki continued on in an attempt to convince her.

“Then we can't use the magic power either. And then there's the problem with rebuilding it; we can aim to destroy the building later.”

Even if they destroyed the building, there wouldn't be in any point if was rebuilt before their decisive battle. The same was true for sealing the magic power. If they were going to do it, they should do so just before the battle. Their focus right now should be on seizing the magic power.

“So easygoing...”

Hearing Maki's words, Crimson frowned. She hated trouble, but since she understood what Maki meant, she didn't say anything else.

“Green, what do you think?”

Instead, Crimson asked for Green's opinion. Green was the calmest and most intelligent of the four in the room. That's why Crimson was going to follow Green's opinion.

“Hmm... In order not to waste all of Navy-san's efforts up until now, let's not blow up any buildings this time.”

Green slightly tilted her head and indicated the clothes lying scattered around the room.

“Well, okay.”

Crimson easily gave up on arguing when Green supported Maki's opinion. She wasn't good at discussions to begin with, and was satisfied if she got to fight against strong opponents.

Thank you, Green...

If Corona House was blown up, its residents wouldn't escape unscathed. Since Maki wanted to protect one of the residents, she was grateful that Green agreed with her.

“...So Maki, how about that boy in question?”

Crimson who was hasty, pushed the discussion forward. Maki answered Crimson's question while feeling relief.

“Our relationship is going well. I'm sure he would think of me as a good friend.”

“Hmm, for someone who hates dealing with others, you've worked hard.”

“...Thanks.”

“Maki, could you take just that boy somewhere else?”

That was when Maya intervened. She had heard reports of the boy who used a powerful artifact. It would be for the best if he would join their cause, but if not, they needed to separate him from the magic power. It was common practice to pull the most difficult opponent away from a fight.

And looking at everything that had happened, it looked as if the artifact he had made use of the magic power in room 106. As such, it was thought to be inevitable to keep him away until they could seize control of the magic power.

“I wasn't the one that planned it, but i actually have plans on going out with him tomorrow.”

“Then try to stall him for as long as you can. I am interested in him, so I actually wanted to meet him, but I have more important business to attend to.”

Maya smiled as she insinuated something.

Maya-sama is after Yurika...

Maya was planning on eliminating Rainbow Heart's arc-wizard, Yurika, while Maki was keeping the boy away.

Having realized her master's intentions upon seeing her smile, Maki nodded firmly.

“I understand.”

Maki had no objections, things were developing in an ideal direction for her.

I can protect Satomi-kun if it's tomorrow...

The person Maki wanted to protect and the person Maya regarded as dangerous was the same person. Maki didn't just want to protect Koutarou from physical harm, but she also wanted to separate him from evil all together.

That person isn't someone who used to fight. He shouldn't fight...

The boy was talented at fighting, and the weapon he used was powerful, but that didn't mean that fighting suited him. Maki believed that he was the kind of person that hurt himself everytime he hurt others, and that he would eventually be unable to bear that pain and meet a sad end.

That's why Maki wanted to keep the boy away from the battle in order to protect him. She loved the boy the way he was now. He was neither a soldier nor a hero, just a normal boy that was a little out of it. But Maki loved that boy who held the same kind of solitude as she did. She loved him more than anything.

“Wouldn't it be dangerous with just Navy-san? The artifact of the person in question is supposedly very powerful...”

Green furrowed her eyebrows. Maki hadn't taken up the offensive because the person in question was very strong. That's why having Maki alone with him tomorrow should be a big risk.

“I'll be fine, Green. I've been working for this up until today.”

Maki had no intentions of fighting with the boy. She also didn't think that he would attack her. She didn't think there would be any danger even if she was alone. However, saying that she would be fine wasn't enough to satisfy Green.

“However, if it does develop into a fight then, you might not be able to hold him back― Oh?”

But as she spoke, Green noticed something and made an astonished expression. After staring at Maki for a moment, she smiled.

“...I see, so that's how it is.”

“Eh?”

Maki wasn't following what Green meant. So she showed an expression of confusion.

“Navy-san, you've already made a contract with a devil or something, haven't you? That's why you'll be fine on your own... I finally understand.”

In contrast to Maki, Green seemed satisfied and nodded.

A magician could see the magical power surrounding people. Green specialized in fortune telling and information gathering, so she was exceptionally good at it. Because of that, she was able to see concealed magic that normal magicians would overlook.

Green had spotted a special type of magical power within Maki. It was a kind of magic that compelled two intelligent creatures to help one another.

To magicians, this was called a contract or engage, and there were primarily two reasons to use this. One was to contract a demon to serve the magician, a so called familiar. The other was when making a deal with a creature of a higher existence than the magician, and forming a contract where they will help once specific conditions are met.

When forming contracts with powerful beings, more complex conditions tended to be used. And Green had spotted a complex contract within Maki. That's why Green assumed that Maki had made a contract with a devil, a demon of very high level.

“Wha...”

Maki was at a loss for words.

A contract? There's no such... to begin with, with who? When?

Maki had no recollection of forming a contract with someone, so she was confused by what Green had pointed out, to the point where she suspected that Green might just be jesting.

“So Green, what kind of contract is it?”

While Maki was puzzled by the situation, Crimson muscled her way into the conversation.

If Maki had made a contract with someone, it would mean that she had gotten a big power-up. To Crimson who valued strength over all, this was an interesting topic.

“It's an equal and persistent contract with a mental connection between the parties... and there's no limit to the mutual assistance. It's almost like they're one and the same. It's quite a drastic contract...”

“Maki... are you planning on marrying that devil or something?”

Having heard about the details of Maki's contract, Crimson showed an amazed expression and started laughing. The contract was far stronger and complex than what she had imagined. Simply put, it was a contract that bound their hearts and exposed their very existence to one another, until death do they apart, they would continue to protect one another. It was such a complex contract that Crimson couldn't help but laugh and compare it to marriage. It also meant that since it was so complex, she must have made a contract with someone very powerful. Crimson could imagine just how much Maki powered up from that contract, and in that sense, she couldn't help but laugh.

Marriage...?

When Green mentioned that word, a certain boy appeared in Maki's mind.

“Ah...”

That was when Maki realized that there was one person that fit Green's description of a contract. But that thing greatly shook her up.

But... that's... impossible...

If that really was the truth, everything that Maki believed might have been fake.

“What kind of guy is it? Tell us Maki.”

Interested by Maki being so shaken up, Crimson closed in on her and pushed further. Crimson simply believed that Maki had gotten a power-up so there was no deeper meaning in her action.

“T-That's...”

“Just leave it at that, Crimson. Even if we're allies, it's against the rules to investigate each other's abilities.”

Maki had been unable to answer and felt her face getting pale. That was when her master, Maya, gave her a helping hand.

It was the rule that the members of Darkness Rainbow didn't report each action they took. So pushing Maki to reveal the contract was a violation of that rule.

“...Haah.... we finally got to an interesting topic...”

Crimson quickly stepped back. She sighed regretfully, but she easily gave up. Crimson only wanted to take a look at the creature Maki had contracted, but it was also true that this would put Maki at a disadvantage. So Crimson thought that Maya's words were justifiable.

“Green, you too.”

“Yes, Maya-san. And I'm sorry, Navy-san...”

Green politely bowed her head as she apologized for selfishly revealing that Maki had formed a contract.

“...No, that's okay...”

Maki forgave Green, but her mind was in a different place.

“S-Satomi-kun, I... I... ”

Her body trembled as unease seeped out from the bottom from her heart.

Just a few moments ago, Maki had been leaping for joy as she was cheerfully trying to pick out what clothes to wear for tomorrow.

I... just what... are these feelings...

However, there was no joy within her now. The solitude and despair that had disappeared began invading her again.

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