When there was no memory, there was no past.
When there was no past, there was a period of time when he wasn't alive.
All this time, Kazuma was always wondering whether he was truly alive.
Just what exactly was the 'him' who was standing here presently? Was he alive or dead? Had he truly been born? Did he really even exist?
Such doubts always plague his mind.
Since the next day, Kazuma's mind was lighter.
When he woke up on morning, putting on uniform, and heading toward the academy he had gone to for seven years, he was so cheerful. This was the first time he had greeted the morning with a mood such as this according to his short memory.
Usually, he had been living with uncertainty drifting around him. It felt like there wasn't a purpose even when he breathed.
He had wasted the unending time from these seven years only to wonder how deep rootless grass was buried under.
But today was different. No, it would surely be different starting from today.
His memory still hadn't returned and Kazuma still remained an extremely mediocre student. But there was just one big difference.
Kazuma had gained a 'purpose'.
The reason originated from last night.
A mysterious man who called himself Terumi had told him. Its existence was only known to limited number of people, but the Azure certainly existed in this world.
"If you can get the Azure, you can take back whatever you want. Everything. Things you lost, things you forgot, whatever."
Terumi's speech was like a tale from a dream.
Bur for Kazuma, it was indeed like a tale from a dream.
"If I have the thing called Azure, I can get my memories back?"
"Idiot. Not only memories. Everything, eeeeeverything. I said whatever it is, right?"
Whatever it is.
It was certainly tempting.
Until now, Kazuma had never been proactive in remembering his past. It was because he was afraid if he realized that there was no past to remember. And then, he was also afraid if he realized that he absolutely couldn't remember anything.
But if he got the Azure Terumi was talking about... perhaps he might have a chance.
"Azure..."
It was a warm morning. Kazuma was resting his chin in his hands on a desk of the academy's classroom, muttering while he was doing nothing.
Currently he was in the middle of a class with a female lecturer explaining about an important turning point regarding the history of magic. But as if her voice was distant like the congestion of the city, it never entered Kazuma's ears.
Kazuma's mind was occupied with nothing but the Azure.
Terumi never mentioned the specifics about that object. However, other than it definitely existed, he only gave a guarantee that it would give everything to Kazuma.
Terumi was a suspicious man whose background was unknown and never frankly showed his contentment.
Kazuma also had a thought that there was something wrong with him to just swallow the words of such a man. Normally when he thought about it, such a convenient thing as what Terumi had spoken of couldn’t possibly exist.
But even if he had doubts about it, Kazuma thought that it was okay even if it was a lie.
The important thing was that he wanted to get his memories back, and that there was a way to do so.
Out of just walking silently every day in the path of ordinary student which Relius Clover had arranged, it might be possible to return to those days as his true self.
It was okay even if it could only inspire such faint hope.
The bell marking the end of the class rang. Kazuma lifted his face as he came to his senses. In the end, there wasn't a single character filling his notebook. He also couldn't recall the contents of the lesson.
On a normal day, he would have been more or less regretted that he had been dazing around. But today, there wasn't even a tiny amount of that feeling.
The lesson didn't matter. After Kazuma put the unused notebook and pen to his bag, he stood up with determination.
"...I'll search for it."
I want to regain my memories.
I want to know who and what kind of person I am.
It was the first time he clearly thought about that. It was also the first time he felt that he was truly living in this world.
First, he must make it his objective to find out just what the Azure was and where it could be found.
Fortunately, this here was Ishana——the Mages' Guild. The history hidden from the whole world was gathered on this island.
As Kazuma grabbed his bag, he left the classroom without looking back.
Cutting across the academy's courtyard and then proceeding to the side of the auditorium, a building with soaring green roof on white walls appeared.
The building with its size approximately as big as a small scale school was the academy-managed Great Library.
Not only for the students, the library was opened for Mages' Guild's staff members as well as the island's inhabitants. As the book collection consisted of books which weren't expected to survive or exist, it wasn't inferior to other libraries around the world.
It was reasonable for this library to have books that had existed in secret.
The inside was very large, and also very quiet.
The walls were white and there were endless polished stone tiles that went on and on. There were towering bookshelves as far as the tall ceilings. Ladders were placed everywhere in order to get to books placed at high altitudes.
The light from outside couldn't enter at all. All the illuminations were produced by magic. Different from artificial light bulb, the gentle lights gave off a whimsical atmosphere in the entire library.
Ever since the noon recess two days ago, Kazuma hadn't attended classes, only going back and forth between the dormitory and here.
He attempted to use the search system for the book collection to look up about the Azure, but he was only guided to books that clearly didn't have any relation to it. Although he looked them over just to be sure, the majority of them were some sort of silly stories. Even if it wasn't like that, he couldn't rely upon the likes of artful writings and poems.
Lores which weren't made public, ancient magic patterns, synthetic tables of alchemy. Every religious ceremony around the world from ancient times. On top of those, the latest technology of science and medical treatment, also the combination between alchemy and science.
Even when he searched for books that came into his mind, it didn't appear they had the right description.
"Not good..."
When he closed the last copy of the book he brought from his countless round-trips, Kazuma's head fell over the desk while he groaned.
It looked like it didn't give any result.
He read books and books, but all of them were wrong. Since this failure couldn't make him to proceed even for one millimeter toward somewhere, he got broken hearted as expected.
"...Does it even exist?"
Azure that is.
He didn't expect to be able to examine it in detail, but he didn't think that he couldn't find even a glimpse of it.
"In the first place, just what 'Azure' is...? It'd be nice if he just told me that much."
While grumbling, he poked the front cover of the book he had closed, feeling irritated.
Creature, substance, device, organization, belief, or concept. He couldn't get a plausible clue about what kind of object the obscurely-named Azure was.
As his forehead hit the desk, Kazuma let out a sigh.
"Maybe I should ask Terumi again..."
However, it didn't seem likely for that man to tell him. He had asked various questions regarding the Azure, but in the end, he was told to look it up himself.
(Hmm, but wait.)
For example, in the case that the Azure really existed and was an unfathomable technique that could make everything possible. Such ridiculous things might not just simply be recorded in books.
Moreover, would such books usually get accessed and placed in these bookshelves which the people on the island or anyone else could read?
(If I think about it, it's not strange for it not to be here.)
It was natural if it was treated like classified information. And it sounded more credible, too.
However, even if that was true, what other places should he investigate? Since the books here didn't have information as far as rumors, there was no other way but to aim for the rumor he heard about the Mages' Guild's highly classified information next.
(Mage’s Guild's highly classified information... huh.)
Despite the current Mages' Guild's standpoint, there were things which were considered vital that shouldn't be publicized. Regardless that it was only their existences that were recognized, no one knew about the details.
The way to the deep underground below the Cathedral had secure barrier stretched which wouldn't let anyone other than Ten Sages to trespass. It might be stored there...
"Kazuma-san?"
"UWAH!?"
Tapped on the shoulder from behind, Kazuma, forgetting where he was, let out a hysterical voice.
The impulse made him fall from his chair. In a panic, he clung to the back of the chair and made clattering noise while lifting his face. As he did that, the smiling figure of Trinity was there.
"I'm sorry. Did I surprise you~?"
"I-It's okay. I was just a bit dazed."
Kazuma quickly got a look at his unsightly position. He smiled as if to smooth things over.
Pushing up her large circular glasses with her fingers, Trinity stared at the desk in wonder.
"Were you checking up on something?"
"Aah, yes. Something personal has been on my mind."
While answering without any offense, Kazuma piled up the thrown out books in haste and pushed them to the side of the table.
"Umm. I might sound meddling, but..."
Being conservative while lowering her eyebrows as if she was apologizing, Trinity started with the prelude.
"Today, it seems you didn’t attend the classes. You also didn't yesterday... and the afternoon before, too."
"...So you came to warn me? As one would expect from the well-conducted Trinity Glassfille-san. You don't overlook your irresponsible fellow classmates."
He unintentionally let sarcasm slip out.
Not expecting that kind of remark from Kazuma, Trinity looked a bit surprised and had a bewildered expression.
"Well, that wasn't my intention. I apologize if I hurt your feelings."
Neatly putting both hands on front of her body, Trinity bowed her head courteously. Her soft platinum blonde hair gently swayed.
"Only... Kazuma-san, until now, you have never skipped classes even once. I got a little worried about how you're doing~."
"You're worried?"
Those words had a strange feeling to it.
How could she feel that way not to herself, but to someone else? Kazuma was baffled. She didn't wish for reward or expect any gratitude. The earnest kindness of Trinity was... awkwardly warm.
He didn't think he deserved to receive such affection that asked nothing in return.
Unrelated to Kazuma's feeling, Trinity kept a light expression and smiled charmingly like a doll.
"If it won't hinder you, can I assist you in the matter you're checking on? Since I come here often, I may have a rough grasp on the kind of book and its whereabouts."
Hesitating to talk, Kazuma scratched his cheek. He would gladly accept it if the matter he was investigating was related to a lesson. But it wasn't the case. Besides.
"It pains me, but I was just about to finish. Sorry."
"Oh my... it's me who should apologize. It'd be nice if I had called out to you much sooner."
"Ha ha. Looks like it."
While using his laugh to feign ignorance, Kazuma didn't look at Trinity's eyes.
As Kazuma arranged the books and stood up, Trinity seemingly confused, asked him:
"What were you searching for to make you seclude yourself in the library for two days?"
"Eh... Ah."
His body stiffened.
Peeking with sidelong glance, he saw Trinity looking in his direction with a curious look on her face.
She shouldn't have any ulterior motive. He understood that much. But having such pure and innocent eyes directed at him meant he couldn't help but think that she was only pretending, in order to inflict great harm to him.
"Umm... It was something... about my memory."
He couldn't lie, but he couldn’t say the truth either.
However, Trinity didn’t have a slight doubt to Kazuma's vague reply. Putting both hands on her white cheeks, her eyes sparkled as she was both astonished and joyful.
"Oh! Could it be that you've remembered something?"
"No, it's not like that. Only, it seems... there's a way to recover it. But since the method isn't widely known, I thought that maybe I could get some clue here."
Kazuma packed the books and arranged them before putting them back on the desk again.
He took a light breath. As he was with Trinity, he wanted to keep things like planning and calculating away.
When she was near, it was like time flowed slower.
Even with the slight hesitation which remained in Kazuma's mind, he rubbed it off and opened his mouth again.
"...Can we have a little talk?"
"But of course."
Trinity's soft voice gently urged him.
Kazuma hesitated again... and then he began to talk.
"I haven't given much thought about my memory loss. But when I talk with people and try to relate... I can't handle it well no matter what. When something like that happens, the memory-less me feels cheated. It felt like my feelings and emotions weren't enough when compared to other person."
The impression he wanted to give was lacking and didn't strike home. He didn't get the right tuning point.
He had a feeling like an important part was completely left out when his human soul was taking form.
"Sometimes, it feels like I'm different from other people. It'd be preferable if I were superior than the others, but I have a big disadvantage compared to other people. ...I feel like it's only me who doesn't have a presence."
"It must be... lonely."
Trinity murmured sympathy.
Giving sympathy that didn't have even a slight sarcasm on it seemed like Trinity's virtue.
"Of course I got used to it. It's not like I feel agony every day, you know? ...But."
Not finding the right words, Kazuma closed his mouth.
However, it was already enough. He felt a little better having put out his feelings.
Trinity was the first person he spoke his mind to. It might be because of her comforting air, or perhaps the indifferent silence of the Great Library.
When the warm feeling came to an end, this time he felt a little embarassed, Kazuma seemingly scratched his head roughly.
"Ah."
Suddenly, he had a thought.
When he raised his face, his eyes met Trinity's gaze while she had a blank look. Since Trinity herself couldn't clearly see Kazuma's eyes, it was Kazuma who knew that their gazes had collided.
"Trinity Glassfille-san. If I'm not mistaken, you are a close friend to Nine of the Ten Sages, right?"
"Eh? Yes, that's right~."
"Then can you talk it over with her? It's extremely unlikely for the matter I'm searching for to be discovered in this library's books. But if it's the Mages' Guild's highly classified information... if it's the confidential information that's stored inside the Cathedral by the Ten Sages, then...!"
Nine was one of the Ten Sages. Let alone inspecting highly classified information, she was in charge of it.
Certainly, she wouldn't comply if it was Kazuma who was asking, but she might if it was Trinity. As he felt a slight hope, he lifted his head with a bit of expectation.
"Kazuma-san."
However, even that disappeared with Trinity's single word.
Trinity retracted her sweet smile and her pink lips tightened. With a seriousness that didn't suit her, she stared straight at Kazuma.
"I understand the matter you're searching for is very important to you. I know it's something beyond my comprehension, and I can tell you're really serious about it. But... your request just isn't possible."
With meek demeanor, there was firm strength hidden in Trinity's words.
Kazuma sighed in disappointment. He didn't consider that it would go smoothly, but he got depressed after being strongly rejected.
"So it's no good?"
"Yes, it's not possible."
Even then, Trinity still gave a modest smile.
"I'm really sorry that I can't be of help."
"Oh no, forgive me for asking unreasonable things."
If he thought about it calmly, it was unthinkable for the gentle Trinity, who also had a strong sense of duty, to do something that would hurt her position as a friend. Once he knew it was useless, Kazuma had to think about the next step no matter what.
As he held the piled up books along with his bag, Kazuma lightly smiled in a friendly manner.
"It seems I've said some strange things. Please forget about it. And thank you for your concern. I will return to the dorm once I put these books away."
Before he got questioned any further, Kazuma prepared to leave from the spot as if he was fleeing.
Trinity's voice stopped him from doing that. This time, it was the voice he had always heard. A sweet voice that was filled with affection.
"I'm sure Kazuma-san will get those memories back. That's why, please don't be so reckless. I'm willing to give you a hand if I'm capable of it."
Kazuma only looked over his shoulder. He replied with indifferent smile.
He was grateful for her sympathy. But sympathy alone wouldn't let him reach the Azure.
When he got outside, the sky had been dyed in bitter orange as if burning before he knew it.
The evening in Ishana which almost always had clear weather, save for a few rainy days, was lovely. The buildings and the trees were painted in the setting sun's vivid color.
Retracing his steps back through the academy's courtyard to get to the main school, Kazuma's cheeks got faintly hot as the evening sunlight blazed down on them like it did to the buildings and trees without exception.
Kazuma's manner of walking was nothing like a light walk. His gaze was dropped to the ground and the hand that didn't carry his bag was inserted into the pocket of his trousers.
He had been thinking.
The books that were kept in the Mages' Guild's Great Library practically couldn't be obtained in other places. They described stuff that was related to magic, sorcery, and alchemy around the world. The description of the past that hadn't been marked down in official history. There was no place but Ishana where such books could be found in any kind of number.
However, it was no good there.
The books in the Great Library were only the surface of the so called hidden part of the world. They were things that had been passed down to humanity without any kind of obstruction; or even, they had to be passed down. There was no Azure among them.
To approach the Azure, an even deeper information was required. Information hidden from the world, placed deep at the bottom.
For example, the Mages' Guild's highly classified information.
"But such a thing..."
For a common student who didn't have authority like Kazuma, there was nothing that could allow him to inspect those classified information. Unless he was a Sage, he wouldn't be able to do it.
Thinking about the Ten Sages reminded him of Nine again.
Desperate, maybe he should ask her directly. But he immediately dismissed that thought. It could be said that the possibility for her to pay attention to him was zero. In addition, Nine had strange wariness toward him.
"Haa... What should I do?"
His thin shoulders dropped as he sighed.
Even if the hope called Azure existed, he didn't know how to get to get to the entrance of the method he finally discovered.
Dragged by disappointment, he exited the school gate and headed to the dormitory. Disregarding the surrounding scenery while his feet carried him on autopilot, he approached the alley where he was attacked a few days ago.
He didn't feel like going there alone anymore.
As if seeing something unpleasant, Kazuma gave it a glance. A figure came out from the alley as if it had been waiting for him.
"Ah..."
Kazuma was startled and let out the small cry.
It was Terumi.
"Hey, Kazuma-chan. Returning from school?"
Standing with the burning red sky behind him, his silhouette was outlined in red and black, making it looked sinister for some reason. With the same usual unreadable expression and a crescent moon-like grin underneath the hood pulled low over his eyes, he got close to Kazuma.
"What's wrong? You look like in a bad mood. Something troubling you?"
"No. It's not like it's troubling..."
Getting tapped roughly on his back, Kazuma started walking after being urged by Terumi.
Avoiding the alley, they took the road that headed straight to the dormitory. Although he didn't really want to be seen by other people when he was with Terumi, he didn't want to go to an even more deserted street.
Walking onwards as the sun set, Kazuma stole a glance at Terumi.
Terumi was an odd man.
Even though Terumi knew a lot about him, Kazuma didn't know anything about Terumi. However, Kazuma once again felt like he knew Terumi from a long time ago.
Perhaps knew Terumi during the forgotten seven years before.
Since he would get dejected if his assumption was wrong, Kazuma couldn't voice it now. But someday... for example, if he could know more about it after getting the Azure, he wanted to have private conversation about Terumi.
Straying from the continuing stone-paved road, Kazuma turned towards a public park through an avenue. With the sun shining, the park was bustling with the voices of many children. The nice park was spacious with an unobstructed view.
Usually, Kazuma returned to the dormitory by taking a detour from this park. It was because he disliked the merry laughing voices of the children.
But now this annoying laughter gave him relief. Since the children were playing in the park like he expected, there shouldn't be anyone brandishing swords swooping down on him.
From the other day's situation, it seemed that beastkin had been avoiding there being any possible witnesses to his attack.
"The park is lively... just like usual."
As if grumbling, Kazuma more or less wearily murmured.
He usually only glanced at it from the outside, but the boisterous noise was beyond his expectation.
The children determinedly chasing after a ball as if there was fun in it. With the scene of out of his sight, Kazuma went through the avenue along with Terumi. It trees in the park and its vicinity had been growing since the island was first established. They stood considerably tall and imposing.
"Though the outside is in danger of world destruction, this island doesn't seem to give a damn at all."
Terumi walked at the same pace as Kazuma, making loud footsteps on stone tiles of the avenue. He was trying to act like he cared by shaking his head while letting out a sympathizing voice, but he failed badly.
The lively scene he gave a sidelong glance at didn't make good impression on him, Terumi distorted his mouth and blatantly averted his eyes as if bored with it.
"So, Kazuma-chan."
"Yes?"
"You seem to give the Mages' Guild's highly classified information quite an attention there."
Terumi began to spoke suddenly.
Kazuma's pace altered as he became puzzled.
"...Did I ever speak about that?"
"Hmmmm, no?"
Teasing him, Terumi smirked. His protruding chin slightly facing toward Kazuma.
"I know about it. Even if you don't say anything, I know it. I can read what you're thinking after all."
A chill shot down Kazuma's spine at the sound of Terumi's voice, which sounded as if he was threatening a small child. Before he could think it was untrue, he thought that it was possible if it was Terumi.
After he took a look at Kazuma, Terumi burst into laughter.
"Kukukuku. What, did you take it seriously? Idiot. Of course that isn't possible. I heard you talking about it back at the library."
"Library... Did you mean when I was speaking to Trinity-san?"
"Hmm. So the girl with glasses is called Trinity, huh."
Kazuma's face turned bitter as if he had been spat on by Terumi's affirmation.
Kazuma felt considerable gratitude toward Trinity who gave him a feeling of friendship which brightened his normally empty every day life. Should he laugh at that girl, criticizing her behavior? Or should he laugh along with her?
He almost laughed just now.
"It would've been fine if you had just called out to us back then. Eavesdropping is bad manners, you know?"
"Manners? I have bad manners!? Shit, you're making me laugh! Hey hey, Kazuma-chan. Just because you got imprisoned in this disgusting island for seven years, don't get so corrupted that you want to become a honorable magician."
"Hey, please don't talk like that in the middle of the city..."
The flustered Kazuma interrupted Terumi's words while being startled at the same time.
What a nerve to just casually speak ill of Mages' Guild while treading on the land of Ishana, which was under protection of Mages' Guild.
Terumi spoke with provocative tone like it was unclear whether he realized it or not, or realizing it but pretended he didn't know about it.
"Besides, you think it's okay if I called out to you? The atmosphere was really nice, y'know. Youth is really nice, isn't it~."
"Spare me already. Trinity-san and I don't have anything like that."
Kazuma was bad at that topic. Completely indifferent to Kazuma's tone of voice, Terumi put his hand on his forehead and shaking his shoulders like there was something amusing.
"Hahaha. Hehe, I see. Then again, women are frightening. Generally, they don't care about our intention. Don't you remember? Be careful, Kazuma-chan... Kuku."
"Thank you for the advice."
He was completely ridiculed. Kazuma's mouth was warped as he replied with cold nod.
Nevertheless, the still laughing Terumi still spoke a bit ironically.
"While I'm at it, I'll tell you something. The Mages' Guild's highly classified information... It surely exists inside the Cathedral. But that thing isn't like what you think."
Kazuma's expression tensed when he heard Terumi's manner of speaking. Couldn't believe it so suddenly, he looked at the hooded man beside him as if peeking at him.
The trees in the public park seemed to rustle as if to signify the unrest.
"Do you know the contents of the classified information?"
Terumi lightly nodded.
"Yeah, I know I know. Where might that be, hmm?"
"No way. There's only a few people including the Ten Sages who know about all of the classified information, isn't there? How can Terumi-san..."
It really didn't seem likely for Terumi to be deeply affiliated with Mages' Guild. No matter how he looked at him, Terumi looked like an outsider. How could he acquire the knowledge of this highly classified information?
Kazuma's voice was clouded with doubt. He looked at Terumi's eyes, which were glaring as if making fun of him.
"What, you don't believe it? Well, I don't really care if you believe it or not. "
"...Then please tell me. What exactly is the Mages' Guild's highly classified information?"
It was true for the Azure, but likewise, he didn't know anything about the matter called Mages' Guild's highly classified information.
Terumi stopped and turned around in a pompous manner at the questioning Kazuma who was testing him.
Kazuma also stopped almost at the same time. It was evening in the public park. While listening toa distant sound that was like from different dimension compared to the merry voices of the children, he faced Terumi.
Terumi showed his usual smile. A smile that ridiculed people.
"You want me to tell you? I'm okay with telling you... But right now, you don't have any business with the classified information."
"I believe I have something to do with it. You were saying you have knowledge regarding the Azure and the classified information, but you won't tell me what it is. Even if you say so, I don't have confidence in your words."
"Haa. Kazuma-chan's such a worrywart~."
Kazuma undauntedly talked back to Terumi who was trying to get Kazuma into his pace. Terumi calmly laughed at Kazuma like he was offended by him.
"Don't be afraid. It exists, okay? Rea~lly exists. Maybe saying it's a way to reach Azure is better than giving you information."
"A way to reach Azure..."
"As for the meaning of it, find it yourself. Don't get people to tell you everything. Like they say, you should be willing to go through struggles. ...Right, Brother?"
As he spoke, Terumi grabbed Kazuma's shoulder and pulled him toward himself. Terumi's fingers were thin, but it dug to the flesh of Kazuma's shoulder with strength that could disrupt the joints.
Terumi looked at Kazuma who was grimacing because of the pain from the surprise attack as Terumi forced him to get close. He then showed a mysterious smile.
"Listen, you need to get to the Azure by yourself. This is what you'd call a fate that can’t be avoided, got it?"
Even if you don't get it, say that you do. With such atmosphere, Terumi whispered in low tone.
Kazuma cast his eyes down as if he overpowered.
Just what actually is the Azure? To begin with, why is the management on the Cathedral so secure? If it's to protect the highly classified information, then what actually is that information?
Numerous numbers of question accumulated in his chest.
But just like Terumi said, it supposed to be his fate. He must pursue the Azure. No matter how difficult that was.
Still looking downward, Kazuma muttered faintly.
"...Someone that isn't a Ten Sage won't be permitted to get inside the Cathedral. It doesn't seem likely for Mages' Guild to give permission either."
"Well, thinking about it normally, it's useless to try to outwit the Ten Sages just by words. It's a purpose the Mages' Guild has been continually doing for hundreds of years, y'know?"
Even before Kazuma, there should be people who had an interest with the Mage’s Guild's highly classified information for various circumstances. No one had been successful in making contact with the classified information.
Persisting to protect the classified information with obstinate security was why the Mages' Guild continued to have a great presence in the hidden side of history. The Mages' Guild's massive history seemed to indicate that it was a symbol of authority's foundation; a symbol that wasn't easy to associate with.
"But then, what should I do?"
"Use your head a little, dear student. Besides, I'm not much of a thinker."
Terumi who seemed to be really appalled had his mouth distorted. As he started to walk again, his black leather shoes crrunched as they trampled the pebbles below which were carried over from the public park by wind.
It seemed these were the only hints he'd get.
Kazuma dashed to catch up with Terumi. Advancing while giving a sidelong glance to the trees that were planted in regular interval, he kept thinking and concentrating.
The problem lied on the Ten Sages and securities who kept a watchful eye on intruders. They had eyes to see Kazuma, mouths to reprimand him, and brain to decide his punishment. Unless these obstructive people were away from the Cathedral, he couldn't do much.
"For example... When all the Ten Sages got involved in a situation away from the Cathedral..."
While thinking, Kazuma let out an incoherent muttering.
Beside him, Terumi seemed amazed and snorted.
"Good thinking... is what I wanted to say. Kazuma-chan, even a kid can think that much, y'know? That isn't the number one problem here. Think harder."
"...I know."
'I was about to think about that just now, so don't interrupt me' was what Kazuma's innermost thoughts bore. He then gave it a thought again.
An ordinary and inconspicuous student who casually walked along and then stopped by the Cathedral. A situation like that wouldn't draw much attention and he might be able to slip past the Ten Sages' eyes.
(But how can I produce such situation...?)
There was no meaning of it if the situation wasn't a situation that could only be resolved by Ten Sages, not the teaching staff and the town's vigilance committee. Then, his thought was interrupted.
"Aaah. As you were thinking, some dangerous guys got near."
Again, Terumi abruptly changed the topic. He stopped walking beside Kazuma before he could ascertain the reason.
"What are you talking about, Terumi-san..."
Stopping shortly, Kazuma asked him while surveying their surroundings. Then, he finally noticed.
It should have been the usual scene, but there wasn't a single one of those annoying children there. The same was also true of the parents who normally sat, having a pleasant chat nearby. The same for the elders who sat on the benches while gazing at the sky in daze.
With the exception of Kazuma and Terumi, there wasn't anyone else in the public park.
Terumi sneered like he was spitting at the thought.
"Not magic. Ars, eh."
"A-Ars?"
"Something like a counterfeit. Simply put, it's locked us up inside this public park."
"Locked us up? Just who...!?"
Even when returning home by deliberately choosing a path that had a lot of people, it seemed he would experience strange things again. Kazuma went to panic, having had enough of it.
While Terumi fearlessly raised his mouth, he returned his glance at Kazuma as if urging him.
"Who you say? Well, isn't it them?"
Blocking the avenue on the front and the rear side, three silhouettes of people outfitted with black clothing surrounded Kazuma and Terumi.
The park should have been bustling with kid's voices. It had fallen ominously silent.
The laughter, creaking noises of playground equipment, and jarring crying voices disappeared aas if they had been illusions. The surrounding scenery grew dull. The atmosphere was like that of a deserted ruin.
Standing within the midst of it were Kazuma and Terumi.
And the three figures who had appeared all of a sudden.
Their silhouettes and postures very much resembled the person Kazuma encountered a few days ago.
Triangular ears protruding from their heads, their swaying long and narrow tails, their bodies completely wrapped in their black garb. They wore hoods, pulled low over their brows, as well as strange black masks as if to conceal their faces.
It was bizarre. But thanks to that, it was easy to guess that they had some relation to the beastkin Tomonori from a few days ago.
It was just as easy to guess who their target was.
"Wh-Who on earth are you!?"
Kazuma's throat stiffened as he let out the question. He took a step back as his voice faltered.
Ishana was protected by the Mages' Guild's barrier, so it should have been the safest city in the world. Nevertheless, it had now suffered two attacks in such a short period. Kazuma couldn't understand how it was possible.
On the other hand, Terumi displayed a nonchalantly put his hands into the pockets of his trousers as if he understood the situation.
"How rare. Aren't they half-beastkin?"
"Ha... Half-beastkin?"
"Beastkins are like incomplete brutes that aren't human or animal. But a brute that fails to fall into the category of human or beastkin is called a half-beastkin."
Now that he mentioned it, they were certainly taller than Tomonori. However, they were too short to be adult humans, and their strange postures gave too odd a feeling.
The unfamiliar odd feeling turned to fear.
Kazuma forced his stiff legs to retreat, but found his progress halted as his back hit something.
He thought it was the trunk of one of the trees surrounding the park, but he was wrong. There was nothing there. There was space between the trees, but it was as if there was an invisible wall that prevented Kazuma from retreating.
"That's as far as you'll get. You can't escape. I said there's an ars here, right?"
Terumi laughed at Kazuma's shocked expression, as if he were a foolish child.
"The cat bastard from before used that ars too, back then. Didn't you realise?"
"Ah... That's why back then..."
There wasn't anyone else on the street.
While pressing his body close to the invisible wall, Kazuma trembled at the new revelation.
He didn't know the name of the executed ars, but it seemed to be a small scale barrier. Perhaps last time Nine appeared after breaking the barrier.
In other words, as long as the ars wasn't canceled by the half-beastkins, or destroyed by Kazuma,, it was impossible to escape. But under the circumstances, Kazuma simply couldn't cancel the ars.
As if enjoying this desperate situation, Terumi put an arm around Kazuma's shoulders while grinning.
"Looks like they're involved with the beastkin from the other day... So, these guys are dangerous; whatcha gonna do, Kazuma Kuvaru-kun?"
"Wh-What can I do?"
As Kazuma got flustered and bewildered, the half-beastkins, simultaneously leaped.
They shortened the distance instantaneously while their dull silver blades cut the air.
"Hiee...!"
Kazuma desperately lowered his body and ran. The blade of the half-beastkin slashing at the spot Kazuma had stood just a moment before.
The unhesitating attack made Kazuma quickly turn pale.
He was reminded of the other day's attack. Tomonori had also tried to kill Kazuma without any hesitation. Moreover, there were three opponents this time.
One after another, the half-beastkins attacked with their respective weapons. One wielding a sword; the next throwing daggers; while the third wore large claws on both hands.
The half-beastkin wielding the sword leaped and swung downward at Kazuma. Daggers were thrown, aiming for Kazuma's darting feet. As if waiting for Kazuma to escape the other attacks, the third assailant rushed in to attack with its claws. It looked random, but it was a well coordinated strike.
Kazuma rolled away, desperately trying to dodge their onslaught.
As soon as he turned away, he heard a blade fly past his ear. The noise gave him goose bumps.
"Hii... Uwaah... Hah... Hah..."
Standing with his back against a trunk as if locking his body to it, Kazuma's disordered breath made his shoulders heave furiously.
Why is this happening? The question kept repeating itself in his head.
"Ooh, ooh. That's a surprisingly skillful dodge."
Terumi's voice resounded from unexpectedly nearby.
Kazuma turned his near tearful face. Terumi was sitting on a nearby bench as though it was his afternoon off, leisurely crossing his legs.
Kazuma pleaded to Terumi with a desperate look while hugging his school bag.
"D-Don't just watch! Help me!"
"Eeh? Me? What a bother."
"How can you say it's a bother...!"
While keeping his attention focused on the half-beatkins' movements, Kazuma implored Terumi.
But Terumi leisurely dangled his feet while carelessly resting his chin in his hand, watching Kazuma.
"In the first place, even if I don't give you a hand, you can avoid these guys' attacks. Don't you want all the attention? Just play along."
"T-That's..."
After Terumi spoke, Kazuma suddenly had a doubt.
When the beastkin who called himself Tomonori attacked, his slashes always grazed Kazuma's skin, making him fear the reaper with every strike. Still, how could it not result in his death back then? There was no explanation outside of good luck or a miracle.
But now he felt a little... or a lot of, given the situation, self-composure.
These guys were slow. Much slower than Tomonori.
"...It seems so."
It wasn't easy, but he could avoid their attacks if he watched carefully. It gave the cornered Kazuma hope. But he immediately realized it didn't change the situation in the slightest.
"But no matter how well I dodge, it's pointless if I can't fight back, isn't it?"
"Aah, right. Sooner or later you'll get tired and may be killed by a slash."
"I-I don't want to die...!"
As Kazuma yelled miserably, the half-beastkins attacked in tandem again. Their killing intent surely held some tenacity.
The slashes of sword and claws came from his left and right side. As he dodged through the gap in the centre, daggers pierced the ground as if obstructing his escape.
"Wh... Uwaah!"
Kazuma fell over, startled by the sudden obstacle. As a sword swung toward him, Kazuma rolled over to escape, not caring how dirty his uniform was getting.
When he dragged his tired body to its feet, he found himself near the bench where Terumi was sitting.
"I beg of you... Please do something!"
"Hmm, what should I do~? If you're such a blockhead that you can't get the Azure, then you're of no use to me. Besides, look, fighting isn't my forte."
"You said the opposite a while ago!"
A little while ago, he said that he wasn't much of a thinker.
Terumi chose to tease the frightened Kazuma, as if he had no care in the world about what happened to the boy.
"I said that?"
"You did say it! Whatever, it doesn't matter... Hii!"
His sentence was cut short by the sound of steel cutting the air.
As he screamed and squatted to avoid the attack, three throwing daggers grazed Kazuma's hair and embedded themselves in the bench.
They lodged themselves in the wood right next to Terumi.
If Kazuma's reactions had been any slower, his body might be pinned to the bench right now. It was a terrifying thought.
"Hihhihi. I'm joking, I'm joking. Well, it seems I would be a little troubled if you were to die."
Like it wasn't worth the effort, Terumi got up from his seat. His legs having given out from below him, Kazuma looked up at the standing figure of Terumi. "So... Kazuma Kuvaru-kun."
Terumi casually pulled one of the daggers from the bench. He then tossed it over his head and skillfully caught it while looking at Kazuma from under his hood.
"It's not interesting to just help you. I have a condition."
"Wh... What is it?"
"Promise that you'll get the Azure."
His low tone made his voice seem as if it were creeping towards Kazuma.
Catching a glint in Terumi's eye, Kazuma couldn't help but stop breathing.
It wasn't just his breath. Everything felt still for a moment. In the midst of the pause, only Terumi's existence seemed to have meaning.
It felt like staring at a snake. Penetrated by that cold stare, a chill shot down Kazuma's spine. In comparison to Terumi's eyes, his assailants' weapons appeared like toys.
"I-I promise. I mean it. That's why..."
Averting his eyes from the glint directed at him, Kazuma squeezed out his answer. If he didn't answer, he had the feeling that something terrible might happen.
Terumi pulled another knife and grinned.
A fearless and eerie smile.
The cold reptilian gaze shifted from Kazuma towards the black clothed assailants.
"Don't forget those words."
No sooner did he speak than Terumi moved.
He walked between his opponents, and spun the daggers in his hands, as if playing with them.
The black clothed people must have changed their target as they pointed their blades from Kazuma to Terumi. Each of them assumed a fighting stance and approached in cautiously.
The half-beastkin who carried sword went around behind Terumi, and then swung the sharp blade, aiming for his neck.
But at the same time, Terumi turned around and brushed the blade away with his arm. A dull slash could be heard, immediately a black figure leaped right beside Kazuma.
The bench where Terumi had been sitting until a while ago smashed with a loud ringing sound.
"Hiiii!?"
"Ooh. My bad, my bad. Careful, Kazuma-chan."
Instead of pausing, Terumi waved his hand with dagger still in hand.
Currently unable to stand up, Kazuma moved his feeble neck vertically.
"Ye-Yes..."
The answer was the best he could do.
In the meantime, Terumi twisted his body and kicked the one with the claws into the air. Then he jumped and slashed at the chest of the one wielding daggers.
"C'mon c'mon c'mon! Just like this? Hyahhaha! You small fries have to make it more interesting than this! Man, this is boring!"
The bodies that crumpled at his feet were like lumps of shadow. He kicked them like a ball before stomping on them.
Even though it was three against one, Terumi's strength had overwhelmed them.
Without even changing his demeanour or stance, he had managed to counterattack and defeat his unwitting combatants, as if merely giving a light display of his skill.
"Kuh... Move out! Report to Tomonori-sama...!"
As the one who seemed to be the leader raised his voice, the half-beastkins began to pull back. They jumped away before disappearing from the public park.
The vicinity once again regained the tranquility of dusk.
Terumi tossed away the daggers like they were toys he had lost interest with. Then he walked up to the still sitting Kazuma, stretching out his foot and poked him with the leather shoe's tip.
"How long will you keep sitting, Kazuma-chan~. Are your hips giving out?"
"Y... You're really strong, Terumi-san."
Raising his eyes at Terumi who was looking down on him from above, Kazuma spoke with a weak voice that surprised even himself. Terumi's shoulders were shaking as he burst into laughter.
"Strong? You said I'm strong? That's so obvious. Well, you'll eventually get it back though."
"Me? What is it that I'm getting back?"
"Khukuku. Like I said, you'll understand soon enough."
Terumi grabbed Kazuma's arm while laughing and pulled him. He slapped the shoulder of the petrified Kazuma who was still holding his bag tight and made a crescent moon shape with his lips.
"Don't forget the promise."
"Promise..."
"Hey hey, that's not good. Are you pretty much still only half awake?"
The arrogant voice reverberated on Kazuma's willpower.
The grip tightened around Kazuma's arm that was hugging his bag. Forceful, like it was crushing his arm.
"...It's fine. I'm not forgetting about it."
Fooling the Ten Sages' eyes and entering the Cathedral. He had to obtain it.
The Azure that is.
For that purpose, Kazuma was willing to do anything.
Kazuma didn't realize it, but he thought about it as his last resort.
Afterwards, Kazuma and Terumi separated in front of the dormitory.
Terumi stood still in front of the dormitory for a while. Before long, he abruptly looked up over his shoulder.
There was a three story building stood near the dormitory. A figure was standing on the rooftop. The height was short; the long tails were the defining feature, its silhouette emerging, basked in the setting sun.
It was Tomonori.
Standing on the rooftop, Tomonori stared at the dormitory with eyes that were searching for a prey. Until just now, he must have been focusing on the vanishing figure of Kazuma.
He might be waiting for the chance to kill him. Or else, he might be making sure of something.
Either way, it was only an eyesore for Terumi.
Tomonori moved slightly. His large eyes moved for a bit, staring at Terumi who was standing in front of the dormitory.
The distance where they were glaring at each other was somewhat far. But disregarding such a thing, Terumi and Tomonori were aware of each other's existence and their obvious hostility.
But this time, the distance was not to be shortened. Tomonori turned his heel; and like an olden spy from a faraway island country that was currently in ruin, he became a shadow and disappeared in an instant.
The cat's presence had completely disappeared, yet Terumi glared upward at the uninhabited rooftop.
"...Tch."
He clicked his tongue in annoyance.
Whatever. It had already begun anyway.
The wheel of fate is turning. It can't be stopped anymore even if they struggle.
As dinner at the dormitory came to an end, Kazuma went back to his room without speaking to anyone else.
After turning on the lamp in the dark room, he closed the door.
An ordinary room with ordinary furniture. But for Kazuma, it was the most calming place.
Boiling hot water in a small pot, he brewed black tea. It was a poor quality one he bought at a shop in the main street of the island, but it was enough for Kazuma.
After blowing to cool it, he had a sip. And then, he unconsciously sighed.
He had another unpleasant experience today. Although it turned out OK since fortunately he was with Terumi, Kazuma wondered what would have happened if he was alone.
There was something going on with his surroundings lately.
Celica A. Mercury, a beastkin, and Terumi appeared. Today, even half-beastkins also appeared.
And then the Azure.
"Azure..."
He had to think up some kind of a plan.
The Ten Sages were considered to be the most excellent magicians among the Mages' Guild; it was also a social status. If they had to act, it would require an incident with a level that simply couldn’t be resolved by other magicians.
Nonetheless, the one who would initiate the plan was Kazuma.
An incident that couldn't be resolved without the Sages, but also one that Kazuma could cause.
"Dammit... There must be something."
He unconsciously spoke rudely to himself.
Then... a knocking resounded on the room's door.
Kazuma raised his face, frowning. It was quite late. Even disregarding the hour, he had no idea who would come to visit him.
"Yes?"
It might be Terumi, he thought.
But the returned voice from the other side of the door was very different.
"I'm sorry, this is a little sudden. It's Trinity Glassfille."
A voice as sweet as marshmallow. Kazuma couldn't immediately grasp the meaning of the words he had heard. Several seconds of being absent minded later, he hurriedly opened the door.
The figure there made Kazuma stop thinking once more.
Without a doubt, Trinity Glassfille was there.
It was prohibited for girls to visit the boys' dormitory, but such a thing was practically rare.
The spectacle of Trinity, who was famous for her good conduct in the academy, to be alone in the hallway of boys' dormitory felt out of place one way or another.
"Thank good, you're safe."
Looking at Kazuma, Trinity brushed aside the discomfort with a sigh of relief as she began to smile broadly.
"Huh?"
What did she mean by safe? Still with the door open, Kazuma asked the question in return with a surprised and dull face.
Putting both her hands together on her mouth, Trinity bashfully smiled.
"Aah, sorry~. The truth is, this evening, just like when Kazuma-san was attacked before, Nine said that she sensed unusual force... So I thought perhaps something happened to Kazuma-san~."
"And then you went out of your way coming here at this time?"
A truly whimsical person. Kazuma went out to the hallway, amazed.
Fortunately, there wasn't anyone else in the hallway.
Since Kazuma's room was at the far end of the dorm, there shouldn't be anyone passing there to get in the way. But since it was just the two of them there in a secluded place, girl and boy, the circumstances made him feel a little awkward.
"I'm really sorry. But no matter what, it's been on my mind."
As she spoke, Trinity's gentle eyes looked like as if they miraculously saw through everything.
How could it be? Such a thing shouldn't be possible, but it was like the bottom of Kazuma's heart that he hadn't even been aware of was being scooped up. Kazuma confronted her with a forced smile.
"I'm sorry for troubling you. But it's all right. Nothing happened."
Kazuma decided to keep quiet about being attacked by the black clothed people. He felt bad causing further worry to Trinity who somehow couldn't help but felt concerned. Above all, he wanted to avoid a situation where he had to speak about Terumi.
He didn't want unrelated people to know about Terumi and the Azure.
"Is that so? Thank goodness."
Trinity whispered quietly.
After hanging her head for a moment, she reservedly raised her face.
The green eyes affectionately stared at Kazuma.
"Umm~. Kazuma-san."
It was Trinity's sweet voice he had always heard. But there wasn't only sweetness in there. A dignity that seemed to be suppressing the noise of the surroundings was drifting about.
That purity also pulled Kazuma's consciousness as if being prompted gently.
"If you're caught in some kind of trouble, then I'll lend you my strength. So please, don't do anything dangerous."
"Eh...?"
"I don't know anything about the circumstances surrounding you. However... I can't help but feel that there has been some kind of unrest around Kazuma-san these days."
While she said that she didn't know about it, her words totally hit the mark.
Kazuma's heart jumped. But at the same time, various kind of emotions began swirling within him
It was pleasant to receive this kind of genuine care, but it was shameful to be seen helpless like this.
He felt guilty to deceive Trinity from here on. If he were to trick Nine, it would be like he also betrayed Trinity.
He missed the ordinary, inconspicuous dull life of a student and her greetings to him every morning.
If Kazuma's wish were to come true, that same scene wouldn't be there anymore. For a little. Just for a little...
"You needn't worry... about me."
Covering his emotions was too much to handle, Kazuma gently slackened his cheeks.
He had grown used to make a smiling face, but it felt slightly painful when the other party was Trinity. It was like he paid back her pure sincerity with impure deceit.
However, Kazuma continued.
"I didn't particularly get caught up with anything. I have no clue regarding what Trinity-san is speaking of. Certainly, I had a dangerous experience on the other day... but that was all. I'm all right."
TTrinity listened intently without averting her eyes even for a little. Not even a shadow of a doubt appeared on her crystal clear green eyes.
"...I'm relieved to hear about that."
But somehow, her smile appeared to show relief while simultaneously holding sadness, too.
Taking a step backward, Trinity bowed politely in a manner as gentle as her tone of voice.
"I'm glad I summoned my courage to come this far to see you. Thank you for showing your face. Excuse me for coming so late~."
"It's okay. Be careful on your way back, Trinity Glassfille-san."
Trinity bowed her head once more, left a well-mannered smile, and then slowly returned to the hallway.
After seeing off Trinity's leaving figure, Kazuma turned back to his room.
As if snatching his consciousness, the fleeting image of Trinity's seemingly sad smile lingered in his chest.
Did she see through the lie Kazuma had told her? If that was the case, then why didn't she question him?
After closing the door and locking it, Kazuma hit his forehead on the door.
She had come all the way here specially. Why didn't he at least take the small effort to thank her?
"——Hey hey. Don't tell me you just gonna swallow that woman's words?"
From behind Kazuma, a scornful voice jumped at him like cold water.
It was like being snapped out of dream in a single breath. Kazuma turned around with an inconceivable feeling.
There, just like the first time they met, Terumi sat on a wooden chair, acting like he owned the place.
"P-Please don't surprise me. Just where did you come from!?"
His legs gave out from the surprise. With Kazuma's back resting against the door while miserably complaining, Terumi happily laughed while sitting atop the chair.
"Khukuku. I dunno what you mean by that, but it's really funny. I've been here from the beginning."
"But that..."
'Can't be possible', was what going to be his retort; but Kazuma swallowed the words in the middle of it. When Terumi first appeared, there was never any common notice.
If Terumi was saying it, then perhaps he truly had been in this room from the very beginning. But Kazuma just didn't notice it.
For some reason, the air around Terumi gave an impression like that.
After separating his back from the door, Kazuma walked slowly before sitting down on the edge of his bed.
Before he knew it, Terumi was drinking the black tea he brewed some time ago. It would have become lukewarm anyway, so Kazuma didn't feel like making the effort to take it back.
"What did you mean when you said not to swallow Trinity-san's words?"
Joining his hands together on the opened gap between his knees, Kazuma looked at Terumi.
Both parties eyes were concealed, Kazuma's by his long bangs and Terumi's by his hood. But strangely, their sights clashed spontaneously.
Terumi, holding the cup by hooking it with his fingers, drained its contents.
"I told you not to just swallow it, right? But... was she called Trinity? Well, it doesn't matter. Do you think it's really okay to trust that woman?"
"Why would you say that? She's just worried about me."
Unable to comprehend the meaning of Terumi's words, Kazuma irritatedly criticized Terumi.
Looking amazed, Terumi exaggeratedly shook his head while talking in a sympathetic tone of voice.
"Oh man, you poor, poor thing. You've been living a lukewarm life in this ignorant, peaceful island. But I guess it can't be helped. Stupid people will get taken advantage of, used, and dumped in the end, y'know?"
"What are you trying to say...?"
Kazuma became uneasy. Terumi gave his usual smile while returning to his usual tone of voice to explain.
"You really don't notice? That woman is monitoring you."
Monitoring.
The unexpected word froze Kazuma's thoughts.
Terumi rudely put back the cup to desk. The coarse noise made Kazuma return to breathing.
But he simply couldn't go back to being calm.
"Monitoring... Trinity-san... monitoring me?"
"Who else is there?"
"But why..."
"You don't have any idea? Really? Even one? ...Really?"
Terumi's voice fueled the suspicion that began to grow in Kazuma. The gradually growing suspicion grew larger as if he would find something if he searched the memories of the past few days.
"Remember... Kazuma Kuvaru."
Terumi's words shook his mind.
The awfully sharp gaze of Nine who was cautious around Kazuma. Those eyes that were like they were groping for Kazuma's innermost thoughts one-by-one. She was one of the Ten Sages after all. It wouldn't be a miracle even if she guessed something.
And then Trinity. Inside that undiscriminating and tender smile she wore, what kind of face did she have? She was hidden in Nine's shadow, but she was the excellent Platinum the Trinity.
"Trinity-san is... monitoring me..."
It wasn't like his muttering was directed at anyone, but Kazuma acknowledged it. It spread on his heart in a flash. The gratitude and obligation he held toward Trinity until now were dyed in black.
It was hard to believe.
However... was it possible to say that there was absolutely zero chance of her giving such harmless smile while monitoring every single of Kazuma's move?
While casting his eyes down with his intertwined fingers biting the back of his hands, Kazuma held a distinct suspicion.
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