Campione! - Volume 10 - Chapter 7

Chapter 7 - Journey's End 

Part 1 

Transformed into a white dragon, Guinevere was facing Alexandre 
Gascoigne. 

The two had been engaged in a covert struggle all this time. Nevertheless, a direct confrontation never occurred because Guinevere always avoided such a situation. After all, it was impossible to face a Campione in a duel without turning into a dragon, an act equivalent to choosing "death." 

Hence, this was the first and last battle. 

Guinevere spread her white dragon wings and began to flap. However, this did not cause the dragon's massive body to take flight. Flapping her wings was for some other purpose rather than flying. 

What the vibrating dragon wings produced was wind. 

With a great noisy racket, a vortex of wind was forming around Guinevere's white dragon body. 

The vortex immediately turned into a cyclone, as violent winds swept across the forty-thousand-square-meter artificial island. Alec was almost blown away. 

"Sealing my movements in your territory?!" 

'Correct! Alexandre-sama, Your Highness may possess the speed of lightning. Nevertheless, as long as you are immobilized, it poses no threat at all!' 

The magical wind caused by the Divine Ancestor was not simply strong wind. 

The cyclone even formed masses of air to strike at Alec with ferocity, trying to send him flying. Furthermore, there was a curse which wrapped around his tall, thin physique like a snake, sealing all movement. 

Trapped within the confines of this magical wind, even a giant creature would probably be unable to move an inch. 

It would not be an exaggeration to say his immobility was like being bound by metal restraints, for this was a type of bondage spell. The only one left untouched was the white dragon transformed from Guinevere, able to move freely while her opponent was left with no choice but to stand still. 

Standing inside this cyclone that conferred an absolute advantage, the white dragon bellowed. 

GaaaaaaaaaaaaaahM 

'Alexandre-sama, Your Highness should prepare yourself!' 

Guinevere's adorable voice was heard from the white dragon's jaws simultaneously with the roar. 

Next came the frontal attack. Swinging the dragon's massive front limbs, those sword-rivaling sharp claws were going to rip him apart. An ordinary person would probably be torn to pieces helplessly. 

But Alec was a Campione, and thus possessed absolute resistance against magic. Even against the curse cast by a divine class sacred dragon- 

"Be thou faithful unto death! And I will give thee a crown of life!"^ 

Chanting scripture, he raised the magical power residing in his body. 

This in turn increased his magical resistance. Just as he finished raising his magical power, the wind's curse pressing on his body disappeared. 
Recovering his freedom, Alec instantly used god speed. 

A bystander would probably think he teleported. 

In an instant, Alec charged behind the white dragon and leaped lightly, touching the dragon's back with his hand. Of course, it was no mere touch. 
Turning his right hand into plasma, he released an electrical attack. 

Zap! Sparks flew. 

'Guh... Truly a nimble one!' 

A sound came from the dragon as if Guinevere was smacking her lips. As befitted the gigantic dragon god which surpassed divine beasts, the electric shock did not seem to have done any damage. 

Furthermore, the magical wind was increasing in momentum. 

Guinevere once again poured divine power into the wind. 

The wind roared, bellowed and moaned. This rampaging wind's purpose was entanglement in addition to blown attacks. Alec's slender body was once again constricted by the magical wind, unable to lift a single finger let alone make use of god speed. 

"Tsk!" 

Suddenly restrained tightly, Alec found his legs tied together. 

He was caught in a difficult situation of falling over as he smacked his lips. 
Taking advantage of this, Guinevere swung the white dragon's massive tail with a swish. Being struck by that object would be no different from being pummeled by a steel beam from a building construction site. 

Alec raised his magical power once again and managed to struggle free of the magical wind's curse. Activating god speed when the tail was mere centimeters from his body, he dodged. However, Guinevere infused the wind with divine power once more- 

This was essentially an endless self-defeating cycle. 

Using the instant when the wind restrained Alec, Guinevere used the dragon's body to attack. 

Swinging those sharp claws on her front and back limbs. Biting down with those jaws, filled with rows of sharp and deadly teeth. Charging with that massive body as a weapon. Swiping with that unexpectedly troublesome weapon of a tail. 

And more terrifying than any of those attacks, the breath from the dragon's mouth. 

The dragon's breath instantly turned into a tempest mixed with shards of ice. This sharp onslaught displayed merciless ferocity, seeking to send the living flying, slicing them apart, freezing them. 

Whenever any of these attacks approached, Alec struggled free from his bonds. 

Using divine speed to jump backwards, he repeatedly evaded the dragon's attacks in the last second before being struck. Nevertheless, he could not counterattack in any effective way. Not due to Alec's manipulative personality, but because Alec's authorities were not very offense-oriented in nature. 

"Oh well, the labyrinth creation authority was never one to be used for offense in the first place." 

Alec muttered as he continued to endure the dragon's fierce attacks. 

"Though talented, the bashful servant is unsuited for direct confrontations. 
The magical sphere of avarice is currently in use. And if I used that thunderstrike, I will lose the ability to escape from the palm of your hand. 
What a predicament!" 

The authority of divine speed actually had an attack mode called [Black 
Thunder] which could incinerate everything on the ground. 

However, using it meant that he could no longer use divine speed for half a day. Alec had no wish to use it in this situation. 

"But anyway, Guinevere. There's not much time remaining before checkmate. Have you prepared a way to seal that move?" 

Guinevere did not have the leisure to respond to Alec's question. 

The ferocious dragon was using her gigantic body to fan the magical wind. 

--This could be described as the battle between a lion and a cat. No matter how agile Alec was, suffering a single strike from the dragon would result in instant death. Hence for Guinevere, as long as she cautiously kept up her pursuit of her prey and delivered a decisive blow once sufficient damage had been caused, things were set. 

That said, Alec was actually the one with effort to spare. 

"Clearly you could have stalled for time while waiting for Lancelot's rescue, but you didn't. That means that knight must be suffering from some kind of inconvenience. For example, maybe something like insufficient stamina for continuous battle." 

'Gun!' 

Guinevere answered Alec's mutterings with a new wave of furious attacks. 

Clearly she was feeling anxious. The hunch was correct. Furthermore, she must be aware that little time remained until the fulfillment of the conditions 
Alec needed to reverse his unfavorable situation. 

He continued to evade the raging attacks of the white dragon -- until finally, the time had come. 

Once Alec was certain enough power had been stored from Guinevere's attacks, he chanted the spell words. 

"Hear me, daughters of the endless night, daughters of the earth and shadow!" 

Even though the magical wind sealed his body's movements, Alec no longer cared. 

In response to the chanted verse, three beautiful infernal goddesses manifested. 

Standing guard above him and to his left and right were Megaera, 
Tisiphone and Alecto. These were the Erinyes, the three goddesses of vengeance. 

"Fighting evil with evil, repaying crime with crime, shedding blood for blood, knocking out a tooth for a tooth, thus vengeance begins. By the blood of the slain mother, tragic death denies all future attempts at filial piety!" 

Raven-black wings sprouted from their backs, while every strand of hair was a "snake." 

Using their feathered wings, they completely deflected the razor claws, sharp teeth and deadly breath from Guinevere's dragon form. 

"Megaera the demon, Tisiphone the avenger, Alecto the relentless, retrieve the curse and execute vengeance! Now is the time for revenge!" 

This was the second authority Alec had usurped, the authority of vengeance. 

Summoning the three infernal goddesses required spending a substantial amount of time on meditation and a ritual. Hence it was impossible to use in immediate battles. On the other hand, if the enemy could be lured where preparations had been made beforehand to summon the Erinyes, Alec would gain an astounding advantage. 

Because all damage and destruction performed before them was reflected back to the perpetrator. 

Responding to Alec's chant, vicious countenances appeared on the snake-haired Erinyes. Spreading their black wings, they attacked the white dragon. 

The goddess in dragon form was tragically clobbered and sliced open- 
Guinevere's entire body suffered the full force of the attacks she had unleashed on Alec earlier. Like living prey tossed high into the air to be shredded by the sharp beaks of gathering ferocious birds of prey. 

A complete massacre. 

Even though he had successfully sent his enemy to the grave, Alec was not moved the slightest. The problems of Lancelot and Kusanagi Godou still remained. As he thought of them, a familiar voice was heard. 

"So things seem to have concluded." 

"You came. What a keen sense of smell you have." 

Turning his head back, he found Princess Alice's spirit body there. 

Knowing she came to catch the show, Alec went "Hmph" at her and said: 

"Just as you see, Guinevere has reached her end. Though Lancelot remains as an enemy... Perhaps there is no further need to fight him." 

"Once the one he protected is gone, Sir Lancelot loses his original reason to fight." 

Sharp as ever, Alice immediately concurred. 

"Ah yes. Normally, this would constitute a motive for revenge, but that guy is a [Heretic God] after all. He has acted as Guinevere's knight for over a thousand years. If this lone constraint disappears, it would not be surprising for him to start wandering the earth." 

This was precisely the reason why Alec targeted the Witch Queen first. 

However, immediate objections were raised against his statement. It was the hoarse voice of Guinevere on the verge of death. 

'No! Even though Sir Knight has indeed become a [Heretic God], his loyalty towards our sworn master has never been lost! Now that the land of 
Avalon has appeared, he will not succumb to his heretical tendencies!' 

She must be dying. The dragon's body had begun to petrify. The silver-white dragon scales covering her body were losing their luster and turning into milky-white stone. 

'Guinevere believes in Sir Knight's heroism and devotion. He will surely take the place of us Divine Ancestors, going forth to serve under the banner of the "King of the End," pledging his allegiance as the premier knight!' 

The Divine Ancestor's soul still appeared to be intact. Alec replied to her voice: 

"If that island were the true Avalon, perhaps things might proceed in that fashion." 

Neither merciless nor hateful, he simply responded without emotion. 

As if mechanically pointing out errors in an experiment. 

"The Heavenly Reverse Halberd is simply a divine artifact for building countries, and is affiliated with Izanagi and Izanami, the parents of Japan's islands. Their creations were not limited to intact land but also included the so-called 'Leech Child,' an amorphous fluidic object that was exiled to the ocean according to the myths." 

Having severed Guinevere's tragic hopes, revenge was complete. As a result, Alec spoke coldly without emotion: 

"The Heavenly Reverse Halberd happens to be the divine artifact that imitates this legend, allowing it to produce both dry land and Leech 
Children. Approximately a thousand years ago, the 'King of the End' had revived for the sake of exterminating the Campiones active at the time. 
Completing his mission as usual, he went to sleep on a certain island in 
Japan." 

Through the experiment at Los Angeles, Alec understood the properties of the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. After associating it with the strongest 
[Steel], he came up with a certain hypothesis. 

"The island where the 'King of the End' sleeps, was converted into a Leech 
Child using the Heavenly Reverse Halberd. You should have figured it out by now, that is the Floating Island I revived... The island you call Avalon. 
Here comes the mystery, who did it and why?" 

Alice made an expression as if she realized something. She must have figured out the mechanism behind the trap. 

"Apparently the masterminds are the elders who viewed the 'King of the 
End' as a threat. Turning the island where the troublesome tiger slept into a Leech Child, they sank it to the bottom of the sea to conceal it. And truly what a brilliant method of concealment. Nevertheless, there still remained existences like you Divine Ancestors. Since they were going to hide the island, the elders thought they might as well use an even more well-thought out method to be safe." 

This was one of several possible developments that Alec had deduced. 

"A week earlier, I tried using the Heavenly Reverse Halberd to reconstruct the Floating Island. What this verified was the absence of something that should exist. On that island there was no decrepit divine sword -- the remains of the 'King of the End.' After careful consideration, the elders must have changed the king's sleeping location beforehand." 

In any case, there was no sword anywhere on the Floating Island. 
Consequently, the Heavenly Reverse Halberd was simply a red herring -- a diversion to trick seekers of the king. 

Although Alec had a hunch about where the King of the End was truly located, there was no need to reveal it at this time. 

"Ultimately, the Floating Island is not Avalon. Even so, it was sufficient for my purpose of baiting you. Hence I used the labyrinth authority to lock it up, to act as the crucial element of the trap." 

'The divine sword's aura that could be sensed from the island -- could that actually be!?' 

Without answering Guinevere's sobbing voice, Alec shrugged. 

Sardinia's Lucretia Zola had once mentioned. The "King of the End" was much more ancient than Arthur and a hero spanning continents, both oriental and occidental. 

Alec believed her statement and had been performing field research in various lands. What this achieved was the discovery of a decrepit Divine 
Sword of Salvation in Indonesia. This was the item he had ordered Cecilia 
Cheung to retrieve and bring over to Japan. 

"Even though I was worrying how things would turn out when Kusanagi 
Godou appeared, in the end the plan continued smoothly without a hitch. 
Guinevere, this is the truth of the matter, which cannot be changed no matter what. As the Witch Queen, it is only fitting for you to pass away with dignity, is it not?" 

'No! Even like this, Guinevere still has things to do!' 

The white dragon's body had completely petrified. Turned into a milky-white statue, it was lying on the ground. However, this statue collapsed all of a sudden. 

As if eroded by the long and merciless passage of time, it lost shape and became sand with a rustling sound. 

The grains of sand, which had been part of a dragon god only moments earlier, scattered noisily across the ground. Carried by the blowing wind, a large clump of sand scattered and flew towards the sea. 

"I can sense Guinevere-sama's consciousness in that clump of sand!" 

"How resilient. As befits one who carries immortal divinity!" 

Alec exclaimed in response to Alice's observation. What was Guinevere planning to do in that state? 

Despite his curiosity, Alec turned himself into lightning. His destination was the Floating Island. By this time, Lancelot should have already landed. 
Alec wanted to find out what the knight would do after witnessing 
Guinevere's demise. 

Part 2 

That "island" Alec had caused to surface in Tokyo Bay was still several kilometers away. 

Even so, Lancelot du Lac was stuck in midair, unable to advance. 
Imprisoned by the gravitational pulse emitted from the black sphere hidden in the sea, it was impossible to budge an inch. 

Nevertheless, the dark clouds covering the sky above continued to release flashes of lightning. 

The purpose of these electrical strikes was to replenish the essence of 
[Thunder] for the flying knight and divine horse. 

"In order to reach the island of destiny which finally appeared, this Knight and steed shall go full speed at maximum power. This Knight's ally, turn into lightning together with one in a display of valor. Go forth!" 

Recharging was complete for the secondary effects of lightning speed and meteoric impact. 

Whispering to the beloved white horse softly, Lancelot leaned forward against the horse's back. In that instant, rider and partner became a white meteor. Turning themselves into a dragon-slaying snake-slaughtering divine sword, it was a charge which could tear apart heaven and earth. 
Now they needed no longer fear the gravitational pulse. 

Focusing purely on flying, they broke free from the restraints of gravity, thereby traversing the Devil's Sea. From high up in the air, Lancelot looked down at the island of destiny she had finally reached. A little island which contained nothing but rock. 

Covered entirely by conspicuous strangely shaped rocks, there were no other distinct landforms or structures. 

Ordering the divine horse to circle the island from the air, Lancelot caught sight of something shiny on the ground below. It appeared to be metal reflecting sunlight. 

Descending instantly, they landed on the peak of the strange rocks. 

Embedded there was a rusted decrepit iron sword. 

It was once a broad and mighty sword. Lancelot recognized it as one of many identical swords. Namely, the Divine Sword of Salvation which had been used as the material for the divine lance Excalibur. 

The decrepit sword was the hero's remains. He was supposed to be sleeping in the land where this sword was embedded. 

However, Lancelot could not sense from anywhere on this island the presence of his kin - [Steel]. The warrior who should be lying in slumber with the decrepit divine sword. That lethargic presence, similar to a rusted sword blade, was nowhere to be felt. 

"This place is not Avalon either... Is that the situation now?" 

Then the white war god became aware. 

The final death roars of the [Dragon] not far away. Unmistakable. 
Furthermore, the presence of the girl Lancelot was supposed to protect could no longer be felt. 

It must be Guinevere who had been abducted by Alexandre Gascoigne. 

Even in a battle against the Black Prince, Guinevere should have been able to seek protection by sending out her thoughts. Had she been able to escape successfully, she would have delivered thoughts to report her safety... 

"Has the beloved child fallen before her grand aspirations could be realized? Looks like our journey is coming to an end." 

Notions of resignation surfaced. What should she do from here onwards? 

A duel with the Black Prince to avenge Guinevere? Or to finally indulge her long time wish, to begin a journey of wandering and battle -- No. 

From atop the castle of strange rock, Lancelot could see the sailing ship approaching the island. 

The "enemy" should be there. Questions along the likes of how she should survive henceforth, shall be considered after the battle's conclusion. 

Due to the full powered charge at maximum speed just now, Lancelot and her beloved steed were exhausted. Nevertheless, now that the beloved child was gone, she was free to rampage without reservation. 

Feeling the duel approaching, Lancelot smiled under her helmet and tightly gripped the reins once more. 

The castle of strange rock that Amakasu had described. 

The ship sailed smoothly and approached this island of conspicuous and strangely shaped rock. The labyrinth authority had already vanished. 
Fortunately, Guinevere had magically enchanted the ship to move in response to Kusanagi Godou's orders. 

Not only Godou but Erica, Yuri and Liliana were all on the deck. 
"Sir Lancelot is now approaching. Alone." 

Liliana reported. With Ena absent, she was the one with the best eyesight. 

Godou focused his eyes and was able to make out the figure of the white knight. Rather than flying like lightning as usual, Lancelot flew in a straight line no faster than a normal horse's trot. 

Lancelot appeared in the usual full armor, with no skin exposed. 

However, the knight seemed to be giving off an impression of exhaustion, and the divine horse's footsteps felt heavy and dulled. 

"You look really tired?" 

Godou asked out loud as he walked to the edge of the deck. 

The three girls retreated to the back, as if trying not to disrupt his dialogue with a god. It was not yet their time to enter the stage. 

"Hmm. In order to struggle free from the Black Prince's minion, one resorted to a galloping charge. Furthermore, the beloved child who had to face that man alone, turned into a dragon and was defeated. In the end, all this sacrifice achieved was reaching a fake Avalon." 

Ordering her beloved horse to hover motionless in the air, Lancelot spoke in low spirits. Apparently, reaching the Floating Island was a trap. 

Godou was horrified by what Alec had done. 

He was not sure what kind of relations he would develop with that man in the future, but if that guy prepares for a fight it would be unavoidable. It felt like no amount of struggling could get out of those multi-layered traps, and falling into them meant "checkmate." 

"Were this Knight a sage with a keen mind, perhaps Gascoigne's scheming could have been thwarted. But unfortunately, one is merely a warrior who only knows how to charge forward. Thus, this Knight failed the beloved child." 

"Are you going to seek Gascoigne for revenge?" 

"One considered it. Nevertheless, incredible as it may sound, one's heart did not get fired up at the prospects." 

With a metallic scratching sound, Lancelot lifted the visor of her helmet. 
The white war god's beautiful face -- the unobscured face of a woman was revealed. 

"Now that the fetters of the protector knight's duties have been lost, this 
Knight wonders. Henceforth, one only needs to journey as one desires, fighting only those enemies whom this Knight deems worthy." 

With the helmet opened, Lancelot used a female voice. 

"Gascoigne is indeed a formidable foe. And the beloved child's enemy as well. However, this deviates from one's preference. Hohoho, this Knight's true wish is to charge like an arrow that has been shot, swinging a lance ferociously. Were one not this foolishly straightforward, this Knight would not have gotten involved with that certain man." 

Even though the girl under her protection had just been lost, the beautiful war god was smiling instead. 

Once heroes suffered loss, they did not wallow in nostalgic attachment. 
This twisted sense of competitiveness, truly belonged to a [Heretic God]. 

Exactly the same as when Godou had befriended the war god 
Verethragna. 

"So, what are your plans now?" 

"No further words are necessary. There is no lack of familiarity between dear sir and this Knight. Surely dear sir's purpose is the same? In order to play the symphony of an intense duel, to mourn the goddess Athena!" 

Lancelot smiled delightfully as she spoke. 

She was already completely certain. Godou nodded silently. 

"Naturally, this Knight would never be so rude as to challenge dear sir with an exhausted body! This Knight shall curse oneself, for the sake of vanquishing Kusanagi Godou, one shall risk all with this body!" 

In the instant she called out, Lancelot's immense divine power was restored. 

These were words of magic. The curse of [Insane Rush] which had been applied to Godou previously. In the same manner that it had replenished 
Godou's power after the battle against Alec, the white war god now used it to recover herself! 

Then the familiar lance descended from the heavens. 

This was the ultimate weapon that created the white star which had made 
Godou and Athena suffer so much. Gripping it tightly in her hand, Lancelot announced as if chanting: 

"Come, Excalibur... The sacred lance born from the Divine Sword of 
Salvation! Now then, Kusanagi Godou, this Knight has already shown dear sir one's true face. In that case, there is no point in hiding the remainder!" 

Lancelot's white armor flew apart. 

That honey-colored hair was most suited to her cool and refreshing facial beauty. 

Fully exposed was her tall and slender physique, with an astoundingly voluptuous bosom and exceptionally mesmerizing hips. As the body of a mature woman, it was completely flawless. 

In addition, her attire changed. 

Chain mail protected her upper torso. The helmet no longer had a visor to obscure her beautiful face. The divine lance Excalibur was wielded in her right hand, while an iron bow was strapped to her back. The saddle of the white divine horse now carried a quiver of arrows. 

Furthermore, the armor which had been protecting Lancelot till now- 

The white steel that flew apart now shattered and scattered noisily, turning into countless pieces. These pieces further fragmented, expanding and transforming as they scattered. Unbelievably, each fragment became a knight and horse combination. 

The style of each knight's armor, was very similar to what Lancelot used to wear. 

On the other hand, the color of their steel was a deep gray like an overcast sky. With the same majestic appearance of the white knight, they lined themselves up in a row. 

Numbering roughly three hundred or so, the knights were all flying on their horses in midair, rapidly gathering around Lancelot. They were like a perfectly disciplined flock of birds. 

When birds of prey gathered to hunt collectively, they most likely moved in such a fashion. 

A squadron of heavy cavalry had appeared to guard the beautiful war deity. 

"Hohoho, it has been so long since this Knight last commanded these subordinates. This Knight shall lead these soldiers into battle as their monarch, to fight as a simple warrior to settle the duel with dear sir. To decide the victor through ordinary battle!" 

This was Lancelot du Lac's completed state. 

He was still in an abnormal state last time -- Recalling Athena's warning, 
Godou was terrified. 

In that case, he could not hold back any more. 

"As the one who ought to be the knight amongst knights, why are you female!? The greatest clue to unraveling this mystery, lies in Greek mythology!" 

Erica, Yuri and Liliana -- the knowledge they taught was being yelled out. 

Godou activated Verethragna's final incarnation, the [Warrior], and summoned the sword of spell words. 

"You are no ordinary [Steel]. As sword gods born as heroes of steel, all were male warriors who shared intimate symbiotic relationships with mother earth goddesses. Nevertheless, you exist within the realm of the heroes of steel as a female instead. An extremely rare existence with dual identities as both a goddess and a member of steel." 

"Oh? You intend to direct that weapon at this Knight? The spell words for slicing gods apart!" 

Lancelot smiled with relaxed composure. If she had been watching his battle against Athena, it was only natural for her to know about the 
[Sword]. Godou continued unfazed: 

"Rare, but not nonexistent. One of them was Hippolyta, the queen of the 
Amazons. Widely known in Greek mythology as the daughter of the war god Ares. The queen of the female warrior tribe! The prototype for the war god Lancelot is either her or a goddess corresponding to one of her sisters. Am I right!?" 

Appearing in the sunny and clear sky above Godou's head were the spell words of the [Sword]. 

Tiny spheres flashing with golden brilliance. With dozens of them twinkling, they were reminiscent of the stars in the sky. Each sphere of light was a weapon for severing Lancelot's divinity. 

"Hohoho. You have mentioned a nostalgic name!" 

"The Amazons were a ferocious all-female equestrian tribe descending from the war god Ares and a naiad. Inhabiting the coastal areas of the 
Black Sea, they were ruled by two queens. One who administered internal rule while the other commanded in battle. Amongst them were queens, such as Hippolyta, who were also daughters of their ancestor Ares!" 

The formation of shining swords of light was being arranged in the air above Godou's ship. 

Immediately in front, the "Squadron of Dark Gray Knights" lay in wait, with 
Lancelot in the center of their formation. Every one of them were pointing their lance tips at the spell words of the [Sword]. 

Then a frontal conflict commenced- 

"The reason why Hippolyta and her sisters are [Steel], originates from their father Ares. For he is a corner of the most primitive source -- the purest incarnation of the sword which fights in total compliance with its duty. 
Hence, he is violent and inconsiderate, a war god symbolized by a sword stabbed into the earth!" 

Godou was stunned as he continued to compose the spell words. 

The squadron of knights, roughly three hundred of them, had deployed half their numbers as a vanguard and charged into the [Sword]. 

Was Lancelot really choosing her own defeat!? 

"If the battle ends with dear sir as the only one swinging your weapon, it would be this Knight's dishonor as a warrior. So let one's subordinates raise some havoc!" 

In spite of the situation, the beautiful war god was truly feeling joyous. Was there some kind of trick? 

It was like sending birds of prey into a net. These shining golden spheres of light were the blades for slicing Lancelot apart. The dark gray knights should also be valid targets as well-- 

Godou puzzled as he continued chanting spell words. His first priority was to increase combat potential! 

"The ancient historian Herodotus recorded in his narrative, The Histories, that the equestrian Scythians worshiped a divinity equivalent to Ares from 
Greek mythology and even treated him as a special deity. But unlike other gods for whom they built altars, the Scythians worshiped Ares through his symbol -- the sword stabbed into the earth!" 

The golden sword easily slashed the dark gray knights to pieces. 

The spell words' blades sliced helmets in half and pierced chain mail as the knights and their horses were noisily shattered into fragments as easily as glass sculptures. 

The fragments disappeared in an instant. In the blink of an eye, the squadron of knights had its numbers thinned out by half. 

Nevertheless, Godou did not feel a sense of victory. Instead, it was anything but reassuring. 

"In addition, Herodotus also recorded this: intermarriage between the equestrian Scythians and the female warrior tribe gave rise to equestrian 
Sarmatia. This nation is precisely the key to how the Black Sea's goddess and queen of war took on the appearance of Lancelot the knight!" 

"No truer words than that! This Knight was once worshiped by the people as the queen of war!" 

Lancelot's forthright admission only served to bring bone-chilling terror. But 
Godou could not stop now. 

Spreading out the [Sword] in a giant ring shape, Godou surrounded the remaining half of the knight squadron. 

The knight squadron guarding the beautiful war god, was indeed akin to a dark gray flock of birds of prey. A golden net encircled them, preparing to down them in one fell swoop. At this moment, Lancelot also chanted spell words. 

"A decree to the valorous knights. Falter not, fear not. For you are all knights, undaunted and unrelenting. You are only permitted to advance. 
Forward! Think nothing but charge forth to crush the enemy!" 

Then she tossed the iron bow on her back to the sky. 

This time, the bow shattered and scattered, its fragments forming dark gray knights. The newly born knights numbered roughly a hundred. The squadron of knights whose numbers had been halved, once again bolstered its ranks! 

"Eh, are you actually...!?" 

"Hohoho, as befits the one who is Knight's destiny, how observant! Have you discerned one's intentions?!" 

Lancelot had revived the squadron of dark gray knights. 

The knights made another charging attack at the encircling net weaved from the golden sword. Repeating the same scene as before, the knights were continually slain by the [Sword]. 

However, Godou trembled in fear once he figured out Lancelot's goal. 

'King, this is another tactic used by immortal [Steel]!' 

Godou nodded to acknowledge the warning given by Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi residing in his right arm. 

Lancelot's immortality did not simply manifest itself as the power to turn into mist. She also held the power to resurrect the minions who served her. 

'Undaunted by your spell words, aiming for victory by openly contesting via frontal charge. Be they snapped or crushed, she polishes and sharpens these sword blades anew.' 

Sounding extremely impressed, the partner's voice was filled with praise and admiration. 

'How befitting of one who shares my origins of [Steel]! Granted, showing off little tricks for running away was never in a sword's nature!' 

"I get the principle, but being unable to do anything but react passively is infuriating!" 

Godou remarked with surprise and admiration. This apparently suicidal tactic, was one which would threaten Godou if repeated enough times, for the sharpness of the [Sword] would dull after each use. 

If it turned into a battle of attrition, the sword would become useless sooner or later...! 

"That Lancelot, is using the weapons and armor on her person as the materials to create those knights?" 

'Hmm, indeed.' 

"In that case, whether she uses up her armaments first, or my [Sword] vanishes first, isn't that the key to victory?" 

While the conversation with Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi occurred, the dark gray knight squadron's numbers were cut down by half again. 

This time, Lancelot tossed her quiver into the distance. It contained two arrows or so, each fitted with an arrowhead of iron. Once again, these objects shattered and scattered, giving birth to a hundred new knights who regrouped with the squadron again. In Godou's past battles, there had been other gods who had countered the [Sword]-- 

But the way Lancelot achieved it through this foolishly straightforward and simple manner was something new. 

"So, Kusanagi Godou. Are you enjoying this spectacular battle!?" 

"Give me a break! As if anyone would enjoy this annoying battle of attrition!" 

Contradicting his words, Godou's lips were smiling savagely. 

Very well then. Since you are replenishing your knights over there, I will chant spell words to sustain the [Swordj's power as much as possible! 

"The Sauromatae were later known as the Sarmatians. They initiated a conflict with their kin, the Scythians, and obtained victory. Both the 
Scythians and the Sarmatians were equestrian tribes. However, the 
Sarmatian's heavy arms and sturdy iron armor allowed them to crush the lightly armed Scythians!" 

"Hmm. Using even sturdier steel was the style of the Sarmatians, for it was the victory of their predecessors!" 

Flying all over the sky, the [Sword] formed a golden net of encirclement. 

Surrounded, the dark gray knights prepared for a defensive battle to the death. 

This was the beginning of a foreseeable battle of attrition. Using the greaves and gauntlets from her arms and legs as materials, Lancelot created knights once again. In opposition, Godou also weaved more spell words together. 

"The Sarmatians in the myths, were also a nation which inherited the customs of female warriors. It was said that the women of Sarmatia were well trained in martial arts, and prohibited from marriage unless they gained the experience of killing a man!" 

Godou wished to strike at Lancelot herself while the [Sword] was still sharp. 

With this intention, Godou controlled the spell words. However, the decimated squadron of dark gray knights continued to guard her with their lives, preventing Godou's [Sword] from reaching her. 

Lancelot proceeded to toss away her helmet to replenish her knights. 

"The kings and queens spoken of in the myths are equivalent to 'gods.' 
Your past identity as the queen of the Amazons, as either Hippolyta, 
Penthesilea, or Antiope... Was a goddess as Ares' daughter. Hence, you, as a goddess, must have inherited the female warrior customs of the 
Sarmatians!" 

The [Sword]'s overwhelming advantage against the knights was gradually eroding. 

The knights who were destroyed in the beginning simply by being struck by the golden spheres of light, were now offering continued resistance. Soon after, the situation evolved into a stalemate. 

In a direct confrontation, the [Sword] and the knights were mutually annihilating. 

This was because the [Sword] was becoming rather blunt. Lancelot began to smile with a chuckle. 

Other than the divine lance in her hand, her only remaining armament was her chain mail. Immediately, the chain links constituting this piece of defensive gear also shattered and scattered in the surroundings. 

The numerous chain links turned into dark gray knights as her final reinforcements. 

"Go forth, knights of the wilderness! Become this Knight's second lance, to vanquish Kusanagi Godou!" 

The queen issued her orders. 

The gray knights arranged themselves in a spindle-shaped formation in the air. She must have judged the encircling net of the [Sword]'s spell words to be breachable at this juncture. 

Godou's breathing quickened. Now was the decisive moment for victory. 

Acting passive will lead to defeat. He must switch to offense instead! 

"Due to becoming soldiers of the Roman Empire, the Sarmatians and their culture were spread all over Europe. During that time period, you must have been known as the goddess of [Steel], the queen of the Amazons!" 

Chanting spell words, Godou transmitted his thoughts to the remaining portions of the [Sword]. 

Gather together. Do not fight while scattered in the sky like stars at night. 

Concentrate in one location to create an organism. Yes, faced with the knights who serve Lancelot, fight them like a ferocious beast! 

"It was during an age when the heavy cavalry culture of Sarmatian origin was transforming into medieval European chivalry. Nevertheless, Sarmatia fell into ruin and its culture changed. In stark contrast to the flourishing of the majestic 'knight' on the battlefield, the names and myths of the 
Amazonian queens gradually entered obscurity!" 

Thousands of flashes of light gathered to create a golden outline. 

This could be compared to the light of a galaxy. A shining nebula illuminating the darkness of space. Concentrating light together to become mighty power, to pave the road to victory- 

"Before she knew it, the goddess as the Sarmatian queen of war was wrapped in heavy armor, becoming Lancelot the god of knights. 
Consequently, she carried a sense of insanity and savagery unsuited to a knight's nature... Nevertheless, she was still the ultimate knight closer to the primitive source than anyone else!" 

Manifesting over Godou's head was a [Snake]-shaped nebula shining with golden brilliance. 

The form of a massive and slender [Snake] composed of thousands or even tens of thousands of light spheres. The head portion was an inflated oval shape, which proceeded to split open as if opening its jaws. 

For convenience in battle, Godou had ordered the [Sword] to take the form of a living organism. 

In the likeness of a divine beast, as a symbol in tribute to the goddess who had passed away due to the involvement of Lancelot. 

"Hohoho. Are you going to challenge the dragon-slaying and snake-slaughtering war god with such a formation, god-slayer!?" 

Glancing at the golden [Snake], Lancelot laughed heartily. 

Rather than a mocking laugh, there was an authentic sense of exhilaration. 
It was the sound of someone who enjoyed battle from the depths of their hearts. 

"This mettle of yours in bringing such elegance to the battlefield, truly caters considerably to this Knight's liking. True to form, dear sir is precisely the great opponent one had always sought! You are the man of destiny to whom this Knight offers absolute adoration!" 

Queen Lancelot raised the lance in her hand towards the sky. 

"Since dear sir has entrusted your destiny to the shadow of Athena, this 
Knight shall reminisce the divine splendor of the master of old, to display the unyielding might of the man who once stood as the one bearing overwhelming strength!" 

The lance tip shined with platinum brilliance. Excalibur was the name of its blade. This divine sword had been swung in the past for the sake of world salvation, by the hero who became the source of King Arthur's legend. 

"O Divine Sword of Salvation, steel slices apart the planets! Lend power to this Knight!" 

The platinum-colored star suddenly manifested behind Lancelot and the knight squadron. 

Its size and brilliance made it seem like a second sun had descended upon the earth. The destructive power of this star, capable of firing blades, was no joking matter. 

Godou found it difficult to breathe as he directly faced the brilliance of the burning white star. 

His [Sword] could not defend against that divine sword. How could he escape this desperate plight--!? 

Part 3 

In the middle of the sky, the flying squadron of knights was facing off against the golden snake. 

Arranged in a spindle formation, the remaining gray knights roughly numbered a hundred. In opposition to them was the forty or fifty-meter-long snake. The [Sword]'s spell words had concentrated together to take on the form of a snake. 

Focusing her gaze on her subordinates' formation, Queen Lancelot lifted divine lance Excalibur. 

The white star gradually approached the beautiful war god's back. 

"Finally time for the ultimate weapon to be used, eh..." 

Riding on the deck of the magically-operated sailing ship, Erica gasped. 

Standing upright on the prow, Godou was controlling the [Snake] as he focused his gaze on Lancelot and the white star. Erica, Yuri and Liliana were all on standby in the back of the ship in case of any emergencies. 

Come to think of it, Lancelot turned out to be unexpectedly adept in tactics... 

Erica frowned. Lancelot had repeatedly employed a foolish suicidal tactic while cautiously cherishing the ultimate weapon. This was done in preparation for the opportune moment to crush Godou in one fell swoop using her subordinate knight squadron and Excalibur in concert. Evidently, she was no simple berserker. 

Originally, her true talents should lie in charging without distraction at full speed and maximum strength. 

However, at some point in time she had become a sage who could calmly analyze the battle situation while fighting at full power. 

Godou most likely thought the same. He was savagely smiling as he focused his sharp gaze on Lancelot hovering in midair. In order not to lose against these odds stacked against him, he was burning with battle spirit. 

If Erica and the girls failed to assist him in a time of need like now, their existence would be meaningless. 

"For Godou to defend against Excalibur, he must switch from the [Warrior] to a different incarnation. But while Sir Lancelot's knight squadron continues to exist, the [Sword] should still be needed. So let us protect him with our power." 

"That goes without saying. Is that not the reason why we are here?" 

Liliana immediately responded to Erica's call. As expected of the longtime friend and rival. 

If the squadron of dark gray knights were Lancelot's subjects, then the red and blue knights were Godou's sword and shield. Erica and Liliana summoned their magic swords at once. 

The steel of the lion, Cuore di Leone, and the steel of the master musician, 
II Maestro. 

The former was a great sword of heavy construction, while the latter was a naginata with a blade fitted on the tip of a long shaft. 

"Divine Sword of Salvation... The steel whose remains Guinevere-sama had taken and reawakened--" 

At this time, Yuri murmured as she looked up towards Lancelot and the divine lance. 

"Erica-san and Liliana-san. I have seen the magical 'pathway' connecting 
Sir Lancelot to the divine lance. I think if it can be severed, Sir will no longer be able to use Excalibur." 

"As expected. Did you see it through spirit vision?" 

"However, it's unfortunate that we two cannot see that pathway ourselves. 
Anyway, without Yuri's spirit vision it can't be done with certainty..." 

Liliana praised in admiration while Erica tried to come up with a plan. 

Even though Yuri was a rare world-class user of spirit vision, she was no expert in weapons or magical combat. Those were the responsibilities of the knights themselves. 

Nevertheless, the Japanese Hime-Miko tensed her beautiful face and spoke with determination: 

"No problem. Please leave it all to me." 

Come to think of it, there was a similar situation once. At that time, indeed- 
Realizing something, Erica nodded at Yuri. 

"I recall the Princess definitely said something about wanting to instruct you. So, Yuri, you have already..." 

"Yes. It was during the journey to unravel the mystery of Sir Lancelot. 
Since I possessed the disposition towards learning this type of ability, I received instruction on it. Even though I am still a novice, I still believe I can be of help to everyone!" 

Just as Yuri declared so, a transformation immediately occurred. 

The Yamato Nadeshiko originally had black lustrous hair strongly tinted a shade of brown. Now on top of that, a layer of faint luster appeared, causing it to shine with flaxen-colored light. Furthermore, her pupils became the color of glass. 

In addition, a sacred aura was emanating from Yuri. 

The only miko who gave off the same presence was Princess Alice and no other. The White Princess' most prided ability of psychic sensing. In actual fact, users of psychic sensing were extremely rare, roughly with the same scarcity as Ena's divine possession. Nevertheless, it was a power that Yuri had once used before. 

"I see. In order for her to use it without Verethragna's [Protection], the 
Princess instructed Mariya Yuri after discovering her disposition--!" 

Liliana also realized the situation and nodded. 

"Yes. Please extend your hand forward, Erica-san and Liliana-san. Unlike the Princess, I cannot do it without direct tactile contact." 

Yuri held out her hands, holding Erica's right hand and Liliana's left. 

Erica could feel her heart entering contact with another. It was the same feeling she had during the battle against the Great Sage Equaling Heaven. 
The psychic connection with Yuri had begun. 

Erica could feel a scorching sensation in the back of her eyes. Liliana should be feeling the same thing. 

"Through this power of mine, I will entrust every image I saw to you two. 
Please make the most of it." 

Murmuring, Yuri collapsed as if she were anemic. 

This resulted from her use of an unaccustomed spirit power, as well as the burden of dividing her magical power into two and sending each half into 
Erica and Liliana's bodies respectively. 

Erica felt the energy center beneath her navel brimming with magical power and gently caressed her abdomen. 

"Ah yes. Please allow me to do that. You should rest properly now." 

"T-The rest is up to you two. I wish you victory--" 

Yuri answered weakly in response to Liliana's invocation. 

"If we do not get fired up and put on a good show, we are unworthy as women. Erica." 

"That goes without saying. We must fight for Yuri's part as well, Lily." 

The red and blue knights nodded to each other. The decisive battle in the sky had already begun. 

The knight squadron in spindle formation charged dauntlessly at the serpentine [Sword]. It was a legendary scene evocative of Ragnarok. 

In any case, the monstrous snake of light was having a frontal battle with the squadron of knights in the air. 

Flying across the sky in waves, hundreds of knights were laying siege to the giant body of the snake. 

The snake of light rapidly ascended with speed incommensurate with its massive size, trying to create distance. Knights followed in hot pursuit, trying to pierce it with their lances. At this time, the snake of light whipped its long and slender body to strike at the approaching knights. 

Their armor shattered instantly, their horses sent flying, these knights disappeared in such a manner. 

However, the remaining knights stabbed their lances into the snake of light and then drew back immediately -- they were fighting with everything they had, and using guerrilla tactics to pin down the snake. 

Furthermore, it was not merely a battle between subordinates. Lancelot herself finally sprang into action. 

Pointing the tip of the divine lance at Kusanagi Godou standing on the prow, the queen soaring on her divine mount gave majestic orders for attack. 

In that very instant, the white star hovering in the sky above began to flash with brilliance. 

--It's coming! Just as Erica became certain, Liliana swiftly called out: 

"There is no time left to defend! Help me take flight!" 

A hasty order. Nevertheless, it was sufficient for her longtime friend Erica to understand. 

She selected the appropriate spell words to assist the witchcraft Liliana was planning to use. 

"O Artemis! I beseech you to bless one who is female with the power of wings!" 

"Once again I offer my prayers! Please bestow upon us the privilege to fly across the sky!" 

Liliana chanted the spell words and crouched down. 

Striking her hand against the ship's deck, she activated her skilled flight magic. In the past, she only used to it to carry multiple people at once, but this time was different. Having received Yuri's magical power and Erica's assistance, she was able to produce much more powerful lift than usual- 

What Guinevere had summoned, was this sailing ship which had been transporting Godou and his group. 

Liliana's flight magic now levitated this ship. In the instant the entire ship was surrounded by blue light, the white star released a flash of lightning. 

This was the hammer of god for incinerating all existence upon this ocean. 

Just as the ship was inches away from being engulfed by this attack, it moved, relying on Liliana's flight magic. Surrounded by blue light, the sailing ship shot forward in a straight line, towards the Floating Island ahead. Furthermore, they barely managed to evade the lightning of annihilation. 

On the other hand, this forced manner of transport half wrecked the ship. 

The sailing ship now lay on the shore of the Floating Island -- or rather, the ship had crashed its prow, sending timber flying. Standing on the deck, 
Erica, Liliana and Godou lost balance from the intense rocking while the unconscious Yuri continued to lie motionless. 

"Sorry for the sudden movement. I could not think of any other means to escape Excalibur's attack." 

"What are you talking about? It's thanks to you that we're saved, thanks!" 

Godou replied to Liliana's apology with smiling thanks. 

Nevertheless, this was only an emergency maneuver. If they tried to evade in the same manner again, Lancelot would probably calmly destroy the ship using Excalibur. 

"Godou, leave Excalibur for Lily and me to handle. You should focus your concentration on using the [Sword]. Your first priority is Sir Lancelot's squadron of knights." 

Erica spoke without hesitation, assigning roles and duties in a clear-cut fashion. It was the same strategy that had been used against the Great 
Sage Equaling Heaven last time. 

"But Lancelot is not that easy to handle! Are you sure you two can keep things under control?" 

"Of course, it would be impossible for us to stop Sir Lancelot. However, if it's just Excalibur, I think we have a way. Yuri saw it just now with spirit vision. That weapon over there is very unstable." 

In that case, it was enough. 

Realizing Erica's intentions, Godou turned around towards the sea, focusing his gaze on the legendary battle in midair between the flying squad of knights and the great serpent of light. He intended to concentrate on controlling the [Sword]. 

Furthermore, a lone knight was flying towards the Floating Island. Wielding the divine lance Excalibur, it was Queen Lancelot in all her splendorous beauty. 

Now was the exact time to release the trump card. Erica was first to begin chanting. 

"And seven priests bearing seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark of the Lord went on continually, and blew with the trumpets: and the armed men went before them!"^ 

Smiting. These were the spell words for acquiring the Privilege of 
Extermination. 

"They compassed the city seven times. And it came to pass at the seventh time, when the priests blew with the trumpets, Joshua said unto the people, Shout; for the Lord hath given you the city. And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the sword'™ 

Red light surrounded Erica. 

The chanting continued for the purpose of converting this luminance into the curse of sacred slaughter. 

"Cursed before the Lord is the one who undertakes to rebuild this city, 
Jericho: At the cost of his firstborn son he will lay its foundations; at the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates." 1 J 

Thanks to receiving Yuri's magical power, the technique was much easier to control in comparison to last time. 

Erica infused the Privilege of Extermination into her beloved sword, Cuore di Leone. Furthermore, she manifested her defensive gear in the form of chain mail, a helmet and a large round shield. 

The red exterminator had arrived. Naturally, Liliana was next. 

"And they warred against the Midianites, as the Lord commanded Moses; and they slew all the males. And they slew the kings of Midian, beside the rest of them that were slain; namely, Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, five kings of Midian!"^ 

Her silver-haired ponytail swayed as she chanted spell words. 

"And the children of Israel took all the women of Midian captives, and their little ones, and took the spoil of all their cattle, and all their flocks, and all their goods. And they burnt all their cities wherein they dwelt, and all their goodly castles, with fire!"'- 6 -' 

What surrounded Liliana was blue light, obviously. 

She must have secretly studied the spell laboriously. Executing the technique with much greater fluency than before, she poured power into the blue light. Naturally, Yuri's assistance also played a major role. 

"And they took all the spoil, and all the prey, both of men and of beasts. 
And they brought the captives, and the prey, and the spoil, unto Moses. 

Liliana used the Privilege of Extermination to alter II Maestro's form. 

The naginata with the long shaft was transformed into a silver longbow. In addition, her choice of defensive gear was much lighter than Erica's, consisting of blue gauntlets, greaves and a breastplate of light steel. This appeared to be battle attire geared towards Liliana's strengths in speed and agility. 

"First, I will shoot down Excalibur with my arrow. Then Erica, sever the link between the divine sword and Sir Lancelot!" 

Issuing orders, Liliana's pupils became the color of glass. 

This must have been the result of receiving the images from spirit vision through Yuri's psychic sensing. 

"Yes, if there are no exceptions amongst the gods, we can be fairly certain 
Sir Lancelot would be uninterested in us humans. Strike there with the sacred Privilege of Extermination — !" 

Nodding in response. Erica's own pupils were probably the same color. 

For the sake of Yuri who had entrusted this power to them, victory must be seized. 

Part 4 

"Hohoho, the spell words for slaying gods... A rather excellent weapon it may be, nevertheless, it seems slightly inadequate before this Knight's weapon." 

Finally breaching the defensive line held by the [Snake], she smiled as she offered praise- 
Spurring the flying divine horse, Lancelot was approaching Godou's position. Rather than going at maximum speed like lightning, she was riding at a leisurely trot. 

However, this act definitely did not carry arrogance or careless underestimation of the enemy. 

The horse was an animal unable to sustain a full gallop for long periods of time. Judicious use of full speed was part of a rider's skill. Whether in the context of ancient cavalry battles or modern racehorses, this point has never changed. It was imperative to properly judge when to gallop at full speed. 

Standing on the prow of the half-wrecked ship, Godou looked up at the formidable foe in the sky. 

Having removed all steel from her body, the war god exhibited her original bare skin. She was currently dressed in sheer fabric no different from underwear or a swimsuit, most likely offering no protection. 

Wielded in her right hand was the divine lance Excalibur. Its tip shone with platinum brilliance, guiding the white star. 

The divine artifact known as the embodiment of destruction which could slice apart heaven, earth and the planets-- 

"If dear sir cannot pull out a weapon surpassing this, the battle is over. 
Truly what a shame it would be. Nevertheless, this Knight firmly believes such is not the case. Dear sir is surely the man who shall respond to one's hopes!" 

"Yeah. It feels like such a hassle, but I will try as hard as I can." 

Godou grumbled as he called out in his mind. Come quick! 

"But you have overlooked something. Up until now, your defense was perfect because of the knight formation around you... But aren't you wide open now?" 

"Oh... This Knight!?" 

Immediately after Godou hollered, Lancelot became aware of the attack. 

Glancing into the distance above her, she frowned. Riding her divine horse, she made a leap backwards. 

Two seconds later, at the location the war god and her horse had been occupying, a great splendorous golden serpent -- Godou's [Sword] passed through. Rather than attacking the knight squadron, Godou had issued orders to snipe the leader. 

Naturally, Godou did not expect this sort of ambush to defeat Lancelot directly. 

It was only meant for containment. In addition, it was for buying himself time to move. Godou decisively jumped into the sea from the prow. If he fell straight down like this, he would have no choice but to swim. 

But before Godou hit the water, the golden [Snake] swiftly flew down below him. 

Godou barely managed to land on the head of the giant [Snake]. 

From the feeling beneath his feet, it was like landing on a hard and solid surface. Riding the [Snake] in this manner, Godou ascended. The 
[Sword]'s spell words could be used in such a way because of their ability to manifest as a real sword. 

Having mounted the [Snake]'s head, Godou turned his gaze to the squadron of dark gray knights. 

Maintaining a spindle formation, the knights moved like a flock of birds of prey. As expected, they were flying here to pursue the [Snake] which had disappeared from before them. 

"Attack that fellow's back! Strike from behind!" 

Godou gave orders to the [Snake]. 

The snake undulated its body in response. As the several-dozen-meter-long [Sword] began to rise rapidly, Godou lay down prone and hugged the [Snake]'s head tightly. 

His entire body could feel that distinct touch of the [Sword] he had felt in his hand so many times before. 

Compared to metal, it felt more similar to stone. Since it was not meant to carry passengers, he had to grip with all his might to avoid falling off. 

The snake continued to fly at high speed, subjecting him to horrifying wind pressure. 

Godou's head, shoulder, arms and back were being struck by masses of air as he endured the heavy pressure. Even so, he did not fall off, perhaps because the [Sword] protected him. 

Regardless, the [Snake] moved according to Godou's orders. 

The squadron of knights in spindle formation -- was the target as the snake flew rapidly to devour the remaining knights. In response, the knights forcibly switched directions in an effort to pierce the [Snake]'s tail with their lances. 

In any case, both sides were trying to catch each other's tails. 

On one side was the snake of light, and on the other, the spindle shaped squadron of knights. But from a distance, it looked like two flying serpents trying to swallow each other's tail, tracing out a ring shape in the air. 

Godou glanced down below. 

On the nearby sea surface, Lancelot was pointing her lance tip at him, targeting Kusanagi Godou as he rode the [Snake]'s head. 

"Well, this is turning out to be endless repetition..." 

At the moment, Godou and Lancelot's subordinates were entangled in mutual pursuit. If Lancelot used Excalibur to attack recklessly, her irreplaceable companions would likely be caught up in the attack- 
But this type of worry most likely never crossed Lancelot's mind. 

Because she was the knight able to use the mind's eye to see through divine speed. 

Hence, Godou did not expect her to hesitate. On the other hand, he was expecting something else while he prepared a splendid finishing blow for 
Lancelot. If Erica and Liliana successfully find an opening, it should be possible- 

"O Blade which destroys heaven, earth, and the stars. In place of your proper master, this Knight is your current wielder. Exhibit sacred annihilation and slaughter!" 

As expected, Lancelot fearlessly chanted spell words. In order to strike a blow using Excalibur. 

The white star released lightning which would probably destroy Godou and the [Snake] alone while avoiding the dark gray knights. However, if it was those two girls, definitely...! 

"Manifesting justice in this world through these spell words of mine! Divine might indeed resides in my oratory incantation!" 

Godou chanted the spell words in firm belief. Rather than defend against 
Excalibur's attack, he infused the snake-shaped [Sword] with the maximum amount of magical power, for the purpose of obliterating Lancelot's squadron of knights. 

"O Sword, shine with brilliance for the sake of my victory and justice!" 

"O Sword, manifesting the light of salvation, bring balance to this world!" 

God-slayer and war god chanted and immediately, several completely different things happened at the same time. 

First was Excalibur whose lance tip was thrust forwards, causing the star of the white sword to release lightning. 

Next, a flashing arrow of blue light was shot from the sailing ship, splendidly striking the tip of the divine lance. This resulted in the divine lance tip's deflection by a few dozen centimeters. 

Furthermore, Godou had infused the [Snake] with abundant magical power. 

The snake of light instantly accelerated in pursuit of the squadron of dark gray knights, devouring them from behind, tearing apart the spindle formation. 

Lightning came attacking from Excalibur, but its trajectory had been perturbed greatly. 

The light which should have pierced Godou and the [Sword] like a thread through the head of a needle, the divine lighting of destruction passed over 
Godou's head in the distance instead. 

Finally, surrounded in red light, the blonde knight flew in the air like a comet. 

Swinging the magic sword of the lion, she sliced through empty space. 
This void was located right in between Lancelot du Lac and the divine lance Excalibur that she was wielding. 

Erica should have simply sliced through air, but a cataclysmic change came over Excalibur. 

The lance's shaft gave off platinum-colored sparks as it jumped out from 
Lancelot's hand as if rejecting her, falling into the sea below. 

All thanks to Erica, Yuri and Liliana's full efforts, Godou was saved. 

Since the [Snake] had greatly weakened after the devastating strike against the squadron of dark gray knights, Godou ordered it to return to the 
Floating Island. The sword blades had been reduced greatly, both in number and sharpness, so it was best to stop fighting in the air. 

Godou once again landed on the shore of the Floating Island. 

By this time, the [Snake]'s length was down to ten meters or so. Godou released the snake shape and allowed it to return to its original form of spheres. Thirty or forty spheres of light were shining as they hovered over 
Godou's head. 

"It's called Excalibur, right? That lance doesn't seem like it can be used any further." 

"Hmm. It was dear sir's subordinates' doing." 

Spurring the white divine horse to fly in approach, Lancelot responded to 
Godou. 

The divine lance with the platinum blade had disappeared from her hands. 
However, the war god and the warrior queen of equestrian tribes seemed to be smiling with joy. 

"Indeed because of this, only the beloved horse remains by this Knight's side. Even as a horse, this is the premier vassal who overcame innumerable battlefields alongside this Knight, and no less worthy than those subordinates who serve dear sir." 

"They're not subordinates. Those girls are my important companions." 

"Hohoho, what a subtle manner of calling them. In that case, allow this 
Knight to correct oneself. This divine horse is one's irreplaceable dear friend. Even intimate as one's bond with dear sir may be, it cannot surpass that between Knight and steed. Now is the time for the final conclusion!" 

A cavalry lance suddenly manifested in Lancelot's hand. 

This was the weapon she had also used during the battle against Athena. 
She must have saved it expressly instead of turning it into knights. Yes, for the sake of delivering the final blow. 

"Yeah, got it -- that's all I want to say. I've already seen how terrifying that thing can be. The attack that even Athena could not stop. It's finally time for me to experience it for myself!" 

Saying that, Godou issued attacking orders to the [Sword]. 

The blades of spell words hovering over him began rushing towards 
Lancelot. There was no longer any steel protecting her body. Neither was there any squadron of dark gray knights for defense ~ however. 

"Do not sound so cold and distant. This Knight truly wishes for dear sir to endure against one's full powered charge at maximum speed. Given this mist of one's immortality... Even dear sir's [Sword] will be unable to slice through. Prepare yourself well." 

Lancelot's figure disappeared as the Floating Island was covered by thick mist. 

Visibility became so low that it was impossible to see a few meters ahead. 
However, Godou recalled the previous battle and focused his mind on finding Lancelot's presence... She's there, attack with the [Sword] immediately! 

Nevertheless, there was no reaction and it seemed like nothing had been cut. 

"Hoho, this mist is a blessing this Knight borrowed from one's great grandmother and water goddess. The spell words for cutting Lancelot du 
Lac will not work against it. There is nothing you can do but prepare for one's return!" 

Her voice sounded as if she was smiling. 

Godou understood. This was similar to the time when he had been unable to sever Medusa's divine power. Due to defense from a different deity's power, the [Sword] was rendered ineffective. 

Lancelot did not make a further sound. She must be charging up for a full gallop. 

"Well, I knew this was gonna happen." 

Muttering to himself, Godou took a deep breath. 

Last time, in order to resist Lancelot's Excalibur, Godou had relied on 
Athena to create the blade that could open up heaven and earth. Both sides had been using borrowed power. 

In their next duel perhaps, that should not be repeated- 

That was what Godou could not help but wish for. Neither Lancelot nor 
Kusanagi Godou were the type to enjoy a battle undertaken with borrowed power. 

"As the one who holds all victory in my hands, I am the strongest... All enemies, all who harbor enmity will be vanquished!" 

Standing surrounded by the mist, Godou chanted the sacred verses of 
Verethragna to raise magical power. 

With the [Sword] no longer needed, Godou decided to use a different power. That said, which incarnation should he use? In actual fact, Lancelot was not a perpetrator of sinful crimes or the like and therefore not a target of the [White Stallion] or the [Goat]. 

What could he use to strike down the lightning comet... 

No other way. At a time like this, only that guy could be used after all. 

Godou drew a certain image in his mind. Having done that, a certain incarnation could now be released at will. However, would that guy's power alone be enough to defeat Lancelot's galloping charge...? 

As he pondered, Godou heard a soft voice saying "Let me participate as well." 

Godou immediately nodded. If the enemy was going full speed at maximum power, he had to respond with full force in turn! 

Then he waited. Seconds, minutes, or even dozens of minutes passed. 

Even though the passage of time was unclear, the mist finally cleared up after a long wait. 

However, the sky was not clear. Black thunderclouds filled the sky above. 
These had been summoned by Lancelot for the sake of gathering the essence of lightning. 

"This Knight is Lancelot du Lac indeed. Commonly known as the Knight of the Lake. This Knight infuses this lance with all of one's authority and spirit, charge forth! Kusanagi Godou, dear sir shall gamble everything to stop this 
Knight!" 

Carrying these fierce words, a white light began to shine amidst the thunderclouds. 

Immediately, the knight flew out at lightning speed with meteoric destructive power. 

Her skin clad only in sheer fabric, the beautiful war god Lancelot was charging with a cavalry lance- 

And then, Godou unleashed Verethragna's fifth incarnation, the [Boar]. 

"The one unblunted and unapproachable! Oath-breaking sinners be purged by the iron hammer of justice!" 

The one most capable of charging with astounding force and embodying tyranny itself, the incarnation of destruction. 

The black [Boar] flew out from the sea like a torpedo, rushing towards 
Lancelot and the divine horse. 

It was a frontal clash between the white meteor and the black gigantic beast. 

ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAR!! 

The [Boar]'s ferocious howls reverberated across the ocean. Nevertheless, even if this intimidating creature was a sacred beast, it was merely a wild animal by itself. Facing against the lance-wielding war god, having a weapon was imperative. 

Hence, Godou continued chanting spell words. 

"It was here at this place, that Susanoo led a thousand unruly deities in rebellion." 

These were the sacred verses of Susanoo. The song for summoning the partner residing in his right arm. 

"A thousand swords standing upon the earth, used as city walls to defend against the enemies." 

Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi was used to absorb Godou's authority, in order to produce a newly synthesized power. 

Combining with Verethragna's [Goat] allowed the use of a railgun while adding the [Warrior] made it possible to damage a divine artifact. And this time was a combination with the [Boar], naturally. 

'Here! Namely, the Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi! The steel that breaks a thousand blades!' 

The divine sword Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi announced its name with a thunderous voice resounding throughout the vicinity. 

The divine sword's power was applied towards the furry hide which covered the [Boar]'s musculature. 

The shiny fur instantly changed in nature, producing a body forged from jet-black [Steel]. This was no longer fur but armor. 

In addition, the two long tusks that protruded from the corners of the boar's mouth had been converted into sharpened blades. 

Like lances for penetrating all existence. The amalgamation of Ama no 
Murakumo no Tsurugi and the [Boar], was an incarnation of the divine sword in boar's form. 

'Hahahahaha! War god Lancelot, as fellow [Steel] originating from the most primitive source, I announce my arrival! Try stopping these great swords of ours!" 

ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR!!! 

Ama no Murakumo and the [Boar] seemed to be in exceptionally high spirits. 

Like fish in water, they ascended rapidly like a torpedo shot from a submerged submarine, clashing intensely with the white meteor. 

"Hoo... Most befitting of this Knight's destined one! Such power, such intensity, one can hardly bear it!" 

Lancelot spoke softly, licking her lips. 

Enveloped in white lightning, she and her beloved horse were descending swiftly towards the little island in Tokyo Bay. Halting their descent, was of course, the black metallic [Boar]. 

Using her beautiful right arm, Lancelot made a thrust with her cavalry lance. The [Boar] blocked the blade with its snout. Having been turned into steel, it was not sliced apart. 

Equally matched, neither could gain the upper hand. 

The war god in rapid descent from the sky, and the black metallic beast flying out from the sea to block her path. 

The two's violent clash swung alternately in each other's favor. However- 

The balance was slowly eroding. Gradually, the white master and subordinate were gaining ground. 

The [Boar]'s position reached a peak and began to be pushed down as 
Lancelot and the divine horse advanced towards the ground. 

The beautiful war deity did not seem to possess any flashy authorities and existed purely as an especially powerful charging knight. So it turned out even the [Boar] could not keep up with someone who specialized purely in this one attack. 

"Hohohoho, Kusanagi Godou, please be patient a little while longer. This 
Knight shall be over by your side presently. Accept one's fervent passion when the time comes, and be annihilated! The time of destiny approaches!" 

Convinced of her victory, Lancelot yelled out from the sky above. 

Spoken with passionate tones like a confession of love. Nevertheless, there was no room for sweet romance to blossom between Godou and her. 
If the [Boar] were to be blown away, Kusanagi Godou would be wiped off the face of the earth...! 

Godou infused all his magical power into the black gigantic beast. 

Not good enough. Power should have been increased, but it was not sufficient to reverse Lancelot's descent. This level of power was nowhere enough. 

What about a surprise attack? The [Boar] had two tusks growing out of its mouth like spears. Without warning, one of them was shot out as a long range weapon to send Lancelot flying. It's going to hit -- that was what it seemed like. 

However, Lancelot and the divine horse managed to dodge the sharp tusk's surprise attack. Against a user of the mind's eye who could even discern divine speed, it was too reckless even as a surprise attack. It would be bad if the situation remained unchanged...! 

Godou watched with anxious eyes as the battle between black and white continued in the air. 

"Lancelot currently holds the advantage... However, there still seems to be some leeway for a reversal. Kusanagi Godou, if you really wish for it at all costs, it's not like I can't offer you some help? Even someone like me feels that it is not a bad idea to have a Campione owe me a favor." 

A calm voice was suddenly heard during the intense battle. 

A quick glance found Alexandre Gascoigne to be standing somewhere close without Godou noticing earlier. He must have flown here as lightning after eliminating Guinevere. 

"I refuse. If I owe you a favor, who knows what kind of price I'll have to pay in the future? If I took that kind of gamble, it would be utter stupidity." 

Responding coldly, Godou again focused his gaze at the meteor in the sky. 

Concealing his anxiety, he glared sharply at the descent of the goddess and the divine horse. Right. In front of this man -- the only man other than Salvatore Doni who had been able to provoke a sense of hostility from Kusanagi Godou, he could not allow himself to be embarrassed by a shameful battle. 

This inexplicably intense emotion made Godou burn with great intensity of will. 

Lancelot must be defeated, in order to avenge Athena. But what else could be done now!? 

--Yes. Even in this situation, an effective weapon remained. Ironically, it was Alec's appearance which reminded him of it. 

Godou suppressed the impulse to curse out loud and yelled at the partner in the air. 

"Ama no Murakumo, the horse! Use Gascoigne's thingy!" 

The divine sword also possessed the ability to emulate enemy powers. 

In the earlier battle against Alec, Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi had emulated "divine speed" at Godou's behest. 

Lancelot would likely defend successfully again if a normal attack was used. However, if Black Prince Alec's divine speed was used to execute an attack, perhaps -- ! 

In response to Godou's orders, the [Boar], assimilated with Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, fired off its tusk. 

There were two tusks growing out of the corners of the [Boar]'s mouth. 
One had been fired as a weapon just now but was defended against. 
Lancelot's divine horse was again approached by a projectile fired at close range, this time the remaining tusk. 

"Hmm -- !?" 

The beautiful war god's face turned pale. If the surprise attack had been aimed at Lancelot directly, she probably would have evaded it using the mind's eye. However, her beloved horse did not possess such a skill. It was too late for the rider to give directions for evasion. 

Flying with divine speed, the massive tusk struck the white divine horse squarely. Or rather, the white divine horse was sent flying. 

The tusk of steel continued flying towards the distant ends of the sky. 

Swept away by this attack, the divine horse disappeared as well. 
Furthermore, having lost her mount, Lancelot's white descent was nullified, and at that moment the black metallic boar came charging- 

"OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH!" 

The enormous divine beast crashed straight into Lancelot. 

Even the war god was sent flying high into the air as screams reverberated all around. 

The black [Boar] fell back into the sea, tracing out a parabolic trajectory. 
The impact created a massive pillar of water, rising almost to the clouds. 

Furthermore, Lancelot's body fell down onto the shore of the Floating Island. 

Godou and Alec immediately approached her. Even fallen upon solid rock, the war deity's gorgeous figure did not lose its form, and continued to display absolute beauty. 

Nevertheless, this did not mean she was unharmed. 

Lancelot lay on the ground in that manner, smiling at the god-slayer who had brought her death -- Kusanagi Godou. Courageously, she said: 

"Ho, hohohoho. Truly a wonderful battle. One cannot thank you enough, god-slayer. Whether Athena or dear sir, both responded splendidly to this Knight's millennium-long thirst for battle. Ah yes, Gascoigne, even though it would be nice to fight you after Kusanagi Godou, it looks like such a wish cannot be realized. This must be fate." 

These were Lancelot's final words. 

In the next instant, her body turned into stone and immediately crumbled. 

Thus vanished a [Heretic God] who had manifested over a thousand five hundred years ago. Were Lancelot the war god to manifest upon the earth again, it would most likely be a male knight completely different from her. 
Such was the change her myths had undergone. 

Such a formidable foe, but she will never be encountered again. 

Thinking that, Godou could feel a sense akin to loneliness overflowing in his chest. 

References 

1. t Revelation 2:10 

2. t Joshua 6:13 

3. t Joshua 6:15-16,21 

4. t Joshua 6:26 

5. t Numbers 31:7-8 

6. t Numbers 31:9-10 

7. t Numbers 31:11-12