Campione! - Volume 3 - Chapter 6

Chapter 6 - His Name is Verethragna 

Part 1 

Not far from the Nuraghe sa Bastia. 

Though there were public infrastructure roads, it was basically an uninhabited wilderness. 

It was after midnight, and after encountering Melqart and the youth god, 
Godou and Erica did not return to town. 

"Prometheus is a god appearing in Greek myths — the last of the Titans. 
His name means 'one who considers the future,' in other words, he is a sage with forethought." 

Godou listened carefully to Erica's recounting of the myths. 

The two of them had made a fire for warmth. Perhaps the surroundings were too quiet, so the only sound was the cracking sound of wood burning. 

"He's called Prometheus, right, the god who shared fire with humans?" 

"Yes, Zeus the king of the gods did not want to give too much wisdom to humans, but Prometheus felt compassion for their foolishness, and stole fire from the heavens." 

This god gifted fire to humans. Obtaining fire, human civilization advanced rapidly. 

"As punishment, Prometheus was chained high on the peak on the 
Caucasus, and had his liver eaten by an eagle. As an immortal god, his body restored itself every sunset, and then the eagle came the next day to eat his liver again. In other words, he must suffer eternal torment." 

"What sick torture..." 

"In the end, Prometheus was saved from suffering by Heracles, and then became the trusted advisor of Zeus, so it looks like he didn't want any more hardship." 

Godou seems to have heard this myth before. 

"By the way, Heracles is also a god closely linked to Melqart." 

"Why? Isn't Heracles a Greek god... or should I say hero?" 

"Didn't Lucretia mention before, on this island not far from Greece, Melqart was depicted as a giant wielding clubs." 

The Greek hero, who completed the twelve tasks, was intimately linked to the Phoenician divine king. 

To elucidate the confused Godou, Erica continued explaining fluently: 

"Greeks who knew the myth of Melqart combined their hero with the guardian god of Tyre. No, more correctly, it was due to the myth of Melqart and Baal that the legend of the hero Heracles was born. By the way, Baal's weapons are the magic clubs named Yagrush the Chaser and Ayamur the 
Driver." 

Wearing a lion's pelt and wielding a club was the great rough hero 
Heracles. 

Wielding magic clubs with vigorous battle spirit was the hero god Melqart. 

Ancient Mediterranean peoples named the promontories flanking the Strait of Gibraltar as 'Pillars of Hercules.' Other than the Phoenicians, there doesn't seem to be anyone else who could have reached there... 

"That's so amazing, to think myths were related everywhere." 

Towards Godou's exclamation, Erica said: 

"Well, no matter what, these are just framework stories born from mankind — fabricated, everything is born from the most primitive stories, and then stealing or be stolen, taking form from all sorts of influences, finally crystallizing into myths." 

"I see — then back to the topic of Prometheus, so this stone tablet's advantage is the ability to steal a god's power?" 

"He is the god who deceived gods — in other words a master of trickery, there is also a myth like this." 

Seeing Godou take out the [Secret Tome of Prometheus], Erica quietly answered. 

Dividing a sacrificed ox between gods and humans, Prometheus prepared two plates. Concealing the meat and the entrails within the stomach on one plate; masterfully decorating the bones with glistening fat to make it appealing on the other. He then had Zeus choose — 

The result was Zeus chose the bones. After learning he was deceived, 
Zeus was very angry. 

"So, Godou, when the [White Stallion] disappeared just now, it was clearly the divine power of Prometheus. In other words, you activated the grimoire at the time. Do you have any idea how?" 

"About that, I think it was just by chance." 

He was able to take the divine power of the [White Stallion] even faster than the youth god — no, one should say that the one who stole divine power was [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. 

The one who doubted Erica's suggestion was the one who did it himself. 

"Fine, then let's confirm it?" 

Erica took out a cellphone from her shirt pocket. 

" — Lucretia? I am Erica Blandelli. Can you tell us about the grimoire? Don't play dumb any more, Godou has already activated its power. Sigh, why would I deceive you, why don't you confirm with him directly?" 

Godou was just wondering who she was calling, and never expected the conversation to be passed to him. 

When did she ever ask for Lucretia's phone number? This made Godou very surprised, or did she make use of the investigative abilities of the strange secret associations, obtaining personal information without consent? 

The latter was most likely. Just as Godou imagined rude behaviors, Erica suddenly handed the phone to him. 

No other way. Prepare yourself and pick up the phone. 

"I was really shocked. I didn't expect a Level One newbie to notice how to use that item." 

"Actually I didn't notice it. It seems like when I wanted to use it, it happened, but Lucretia-san, you are clearly a witch, haven't you been contaminated by modern civilization?" 

"Choosing convenience is human nature, that's not my fault. In my home I have a computer to go on the internet, and most of my shopping is done online. I also use air conditioning and refrigerators. My digital camera is made in Japan. What else would you like to complain about?" 

Though the dialogue content was extremely mundane, Lucretia Zola's voice remained aloof. 

"I already know it is a stone for stealing divine power. However, I am completely baffled why I can use it. Can you explain this point in greater detail to me?" 

"Oh that, the reason is nothing special. A grimoire related to deceit and theft, the only people capable of using it are those who have had longer contact and frequent conversations with the target god." 

"Deceit?" 

"Yes, when I used that grimoire in Japan, I spent a whole night chatting with the god who was causing trouble. I had to listen to him complain about his hate and suffering, so I seized the opportunity and stole the guy's divine power as soon as possible, turning him into an empty shell. 
However that was only possible because he was a comparatively weak deity. Thereafter, I had the grimoire venerated there, to prevent the god from reviving." 

"So that's why..." 

The chance to successfully steal divine power from the youth god and 
Melqart was extremely small. 

Godou nodded in agreement with Lucretia's words. 

"By the way, I wanted to remind you. It's best if you do not use the stored divine power. For humans it is far too powerful. If used, it could cause the brain and the entire body's blood to boil. An extremely painful death. The user before me also died like that. I am not deceiving you." 

"Yes... I will definitely not use it. Thank you for your valuable information." 

"Oh, one more thing, opposing gods of Melqart's caliber is impossible with just the power absorbed in the grimoire, so do not do anything rash!" 

To think this kind of warning would be said. 

However, Godou did not thank her for this warning. Perhaps because he had already made his decision, he could not utter insincere thanks as that would betray her concern for his safety. 

...Lucretia was more sensitive than imagined. 

"Young man, are you or both of you considering something? I will repeat myself, do not act too rashly!" 

"To be honest, that is impossible. There will be a great disaster if we let things develop without taking action. If I didn't act, my conscience will definitely hound me." 

"You don't have to reproach yourself, nor do you have to risk your life approaching them. That is survival wisdom." 

"I know. Meeting gods repeatedly these two, three days, have left me with deep impressions. When I encountered Melqart, my legs lost strength." 

"Even so... You still want to take part in this matter? That's foolish!" 

"It's OK, I am fully aware I am doing something foolish. Neither I nor Erica will object to such an assessment." 

"You are much more foolish than Erica-san! No matter what, she is a mage and you are just a powerless commoner. The two cannot be compared." 

Directly criticized. 

However, Godou shrugged and accepted it, she was right. 

"However, I don't hate fools. Clever minds will only act according to my calculations, but a fool will sometimes exceed my expectations. Besides, there are fools who displease others, and fools who bring joy. Please don't become the former." 

"Yes..." 

Though Godou didn't quite get what she meant, it was a sort of compliment? 

"Kusanagi Godou, through this incident, you have made me hold you in high regard. I feel you will become a most interesting toy, so do not die in such a place. Same for Erica-san, please do not miss the opportunity for retreat, hear that?" 

Lucretia hung up the phone. 

It looked like she was finally acting like an elder, and wasn't just someone with a personality problem. Godou felt gratitude towards her, and then briefly reported the conversation to Erica. 

"...So that's the situation. Looks like it can't be used as a finishing move." 

"However, this is still the only tool that can affect gods — besides, if a battle between gods begins, what will happen to this island?" 

Melqart who had declared he will sink the island. 

The youth god whose fragments of power easily demolished cities all over the place. 

If they had a serious duel, it wasn't something that could be finished in half an hour. Using the entire island as a stage for their deathmatch, this place will likely end up as a wasteland once the match concluded... 

As these thoughts entered his mind, Godou clutched his head, feeling a headache. 

"However, even with me plus the [Secret Tome of Prometheus], and all the magi on the island, nothing can be done... So the only remaining choice is to stall for time." 

"Stall for time? Isn't that something you do when there are reinforcements?" 

Seeing Erica's confidence, Godou was confused. 

"Actually there is no problem there. In fact, the magi of Sardinia have already contacted Sir Salvatore, who will be arriving in a day or two. We just need to hold out until then." 

"Sir Salvatore...?" 

Godou remembered, come to think of it, Lucretia also mentioned this name before. 

"Yes, the great Salvatore Doni, the strongest knight of our Italy, the 
Campione possessing the authority of the magic sword. Didn't I mention before? When miracle is piled upon miracle, humans have the possibility of obtaining victory over a god — " 

Campione was the title bestowed upon a god-slayer. 

Slaying a god and then usurping the god's authority, they become the devil kings of the human world, fighting against gods. 

Hearing that, Godou felt greatly surprised. 

That youth and Melqart could probably kill a normal person with just a little finger. To encounter a god and live was already extremely lucky, defeating a god was absolutely ridiculous. 

"Gods are such strong existences, are there really people who have fought and won!?" 

"These people are rare of course. In fact, there was a period over a century long when no Campiones were born. However during the nineteenth and latter half of the twentieth centuries, a number of people emerged, concentrated during this time, and there are now a total of six. 
With the increased frequency in the current period, it kind of feels like the coming of the end of the world." 

"Uh, this isn't winemaking, to have these kinds of periods..." 

Sir Salvatore who was mentioned, was the sixth Campione born a few years ago. 

Since the entire affair was too far removed from common sense, Godou was stupefied. 

"Anyway since that has been prepared, we just need to focus on stalling. 
Even for me, I'm not stupid enough to want to become the seventh 
Campione." 

Godou nodded at Erica's words. 

Definitely an idiot. Fighting a god was truly stupid behavior, and for a devil king Campione to win in such a match, how strong a monster could they be? 

"However, buying time is also very difficult, what do you have in mind?" 

"The current target is the sword god. Since that deity's power has recovered ninety percent, if we can lower it to seventy or eighty, he will be forced to fight Melqart with caution." 

"How did you get numbers like ninety and eighty?" 

"Because the war god has a total of ten incarnations. One of them, the 
[White Stallion] is already captured in the grimoire, so it's ninety percent. 
Isn't that a simple calculation?" 

"Right... That guy's name, can you tell me?" 

Godou suddenly raised this question, for he had become very bothered by it from a while ago. 

Erica calmly said a name lightly. 

Hearing this incredible name for the first time, Godou could only wonder, what country does the name come from? 

"That's mostly likely the god's name. From the strange occurrences on this island, combined with the information from you, I deduced that, so there should be no mistake." 

"...The god with that name, I've never even heard of him." 

"Well, most people would think that. Though very trivial, he is still a guardian god of a surviving religion. Amongst the faiths in western Asia, a powerful god with many strong feats — then next is..." 

A sword suddenly appeared in Erica's hand. 

Just as Godou wondered what she was going to do, the sword pointed directly at him. 

"At this stage, you don't have to carry my luggage any more. Leave the grimoire here and return to Japan obediently. I don't need someone to drag me down any more. If you dare say no, I will take care of you directly with this sword, hear that?" 

Suddenly threatening him, but this was just her show of concern. An act to protect Godou even if it meant breaking her oath as a knight. Which is why 
Godou could not obey. 

"A person who hasn't spent enough time with him cannot use the stone tablet. Didn't Lucretia-san say that? I don't think you will be able to use it successfully, so it's best that I stay here." 

"This kind of problem always has a solution, you don't have to worry." 

"How can it be done?! No matter how I think about it, the next time that guy returns will be to duel with Melqart. You absolutely have no time to spend chatting with him." 

"If there's none, I will create an opportunity. Anyway, I have no need for an amateur like you to stay and help me." 

No matter what, she would not agree. 

If it was the second morning after encountering the [Boar], had she threatened him like this, Godou who feared swords would likely have given her the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. 

But now was different, he could not do that. 

Though Erica was a willful and unreasonable girl, she was also chivalrous, talented at socializing, and unexpectedly considerate of others. On the other hand, she was also a girl who despaired when met with setback. 

Having understood her, it was impossible for Godou to return alone. 

Since there was also a guy straying from the right path and causing great chaos, Godou cannot leave that guy alone either. 

The two of them faced each other silently for quite a while, until Erica finally shrugged and sighed: 

"Fine, if you are prepared to follow me wherever I go, then accompany me. 
In return, I will really use you, so be prepared!" 

Of course, this was exactly what Godou wanted. 

Part 2 

The rays of dawn began to appear in the eastern sky. 

Bathed under the light, the [Wind] incarnation transformed into the figure of the [Youth]. 

The black-haired youth god landed lightly on the ground, at the moment of dawn just as he promised. He possessed divine qualities with deep ties to light. 

Before his eyes was the green forest surrounding the ancient ruins. 

As the rays of sunlight bathed the deep green trees in the forest, a rose colored glow was given off. 

— Belonging to the faction of goodness, having the god of light as his core, the youth's divine power was raised to the maximum when bathed under the rays of dawn. In this state, it was possible to break the forest barrier. 

Actually Melqart was also a deity controlling the sun, but his responsibilities ruled over too many things. 

Due to that, he couldn't raise his divine power even when the sun came out, so the youth prepared to make use of this advantage. 

— Perhaps it was acceptable to make things simple and wait for the divine king to recover completely. 

However, he dispelled this notion as quickly as it surfaced, deeming it too disrespectful. 

As the one who held all victory in his hands, it would be a most special occasion to fight the great and ancient divine king, and win. With utmost respect, he will make the most of this opportunity. 

The corners of his lips slightly rising, he walked towards the forest with the youth's form. 

Though he possessed the power of ten incarnations, this was his most normal state. 

Not simply a human, but the form of a fifteen-year-old youth. 

Whenever he set forth to correct the wrongs of the world, tasked by his master to conquer opposing enemy gods, he liked to take on the appearance of a youth. 

A glorious fifteen-year-old youth. 

According to the precepts of the religion that he guarded over, it was the symbol of the 'hero.' 

Just like last night, the branches of the trees distorted themselves like snakes to block his path. 

Faced with such obstructions, he simply gave the command of 'dismissed.' 

The spell words of blessing and domination, this was the authority possessed by the youth incarnation as the hero. The trees of the forest instantly returned to normal plants, and opened up a path. 

Next was the attack of the locust army. 

For one who was a match for the divine king himself, divine beasts or messengers of god like locusts were no match at all. He instantly used the spiritual power of the eighth incarnation, the [Goat]. 

This intelligent divine beast was worshiped by nomadic tribes as the embodiment of lightning. 

Releasing a lightning strike from his hand, the entire locust army was completely incinerated. 

"King Melqart, dost thou believe such obstructions can stop me?" 
Roaring towards the sky. 
There was an instant reply. 

'Of course! God who slays gods, the great god of the warrior. Those fellows are merely guards. For that level of guards, how could they halt the advance of the war god?' 

What appeared next was a violent windstorm blowing forth from in front. 

Melqart was also a god of storms, even for the powerful [Wind] that could blow away cities where humans lived, it was a draw. Wind was unable to blow apart wind. 

...After that, they used all sorts of divine power. 

Such as an army of the dead summoned from the underworld, violent waves that could wash everything away like a flood, or thousands of thunder-strikes that flew like spears in the sky. 

The youth god defeated all these attacks, and finally arrived at the 
Nuraghe sa Bastia. 

'Ch... Still capably fighting by switching forms. How vexing!' 

"By the power of transformation, I hold victory in my hands no matter what battlefield. Hahaha, King. I can feel thy presence before me. Art thou not coming out? It seemeth, thy divine power hath yet to fully recover!" 

He surveyed the surroundings of the ruins as he conversed with Melqart's voice. 

The original location of the entrance to the underground temple was now under a massive rock. 

'Even for your divine power, this rock cannot be easily destroyed. This is the ultimate palace I ordered the craftsman Kothar-wa-Khasis^ to construct in the past. In order to stop you, I used this defense. Remember to thank me!' 

"Yes... I see, though very crude, it is not bad!" 

The youth god was admiring this sturdy rock. As expected of the ancient divine king and god of war, he did not take defense lightly. 

However, this was the warlord who could defeat any god or demon. 

In terms of pure skill of the warrior, he was a deity surpassing Melqart. His praising of the rock did not imply he couldn't smash it — just as he made his decision, he noticed. 

It was only a minute presence. 

For a powerful god, it felt like the owner of minuscule magical power. 

"Thou hast come. I already stated, the next time thou obstructest me, I shall reward thee accordingly, dost thou remember?" 

The youth god turned around and received a smile from her in return. 

The beautiful blonde witch wielding Cuore di Leone, the girl was standing there in her red battle outfit. 

"I remember your words clearly, but I am a knight, and cannot let you do as you please in this world — if I am not moved despite my knowledge, it would be a taint to my honor." 

Erica retorted quietly. 

The youth god had decided on the moment of dawn himself. 

In order to pursue him into the forest, Godou and Erica had come to the ruins. As agreed beforehand, Godou concealed himself, preparing to use the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. 

Waiting for Erica to draw the attention of the youth god. 

If the grimoire was used directly, he would likely dodge it. The blue flames that stole divine power — though it struck the [White Stallion] directly, the youth god easily evaded. If Godou tried it again, the result will be the same. 

Thus Erica must force him to show an opening. 

"Do you still remember our first promise the first time we met?" 

Erica asked with a smile as beautiful as spring. 

Like a noblewoman happily chatting away at a salon, she had very elegant smiling expressions and mannerisms. 

However, maintaining this state was hard work. Her opponent was a god, one misstep and it would turn into a repeat of what happened with Melqart. 
Erica did not want to suffer that kind of humiliation again. 

Wishing to resist a god and counterattack, one definitely could not lose in spirit. Erica Blandelli will never bow down to an enemy without a fight! She will put her life on the line to make her opponent listen. 

"Hoho, what promise?" 

"Didn't you say, one day you will challenge me to a duel of swords? So, let me make a gamble — if I obtain victory by the sword, you must leave this island, please." 

Bowing her head respectfully, Erica made her request. How would the youth god react? 

Accept or ignore? If the latter, then she would be forced to try the next option. What would be the result? 

"Haha! Thou darest to use a sword to challenge me, the war god. Yes, very well! Thy will is truly courageous, a rare specimen of a witch with a warrior's spirit!" 

As expected, the war god agreed, just as she heard from Godou. 

Erica laughed to herself. I, have long sought defeat. No matter what kind of opponent, I will never be defeated. From all his grand statements, his overconfidence was glaring, and the provocation succeeded! 

"So, I must prepare a sword... Ah, this will do." 

Looking over the ground, the youth god picked up a tree branch. 

The same length as Erica's Cuore di Leone, but very slender, even a child would likely snap it in two with ease. 

"Yes, perfect in length. This will do." 

The youth god laughed in mockery as he swung the branch. 

A simple ten centimeter slash, but the sword-like wind was like a tornado despite the fact it was such a thin and light branch. 

This must be what are known as divine skills. Just from that one attack, 
Erica understood the youth god's skills. 

Once martial arts reached the highest pinnacles of skill, the size and weight of the weapon no longer mattered. 

To use a massive weapon perfectly, one must learn the techniques to wield it with speed and precision. In order to use a small and light weapon perfectly, one must learn how to make strong and heavy attacks with it. 

"Cuore di Leone — steel possessing the name of the lion king. I now command you. Cast off the disguise I bestowed upon you, and reveal your true form. Appear before me as the lion, and fight by my side!" 

Erica chanted the spell words, unsealing her beloved sword. 

The previously slender sword was a temporary form chosen for Erica to train herself. A self-applied restraint to develop hard hitting attacks with a light and slender sword. 

Cuore di Leone began to expand. 

The heavy body of the blade like an anchor, its length was roughly double compared to before. 

A wide single-handed sword that did not match the girl's slender wrists. 

This was the original form of the lion's magic sword. 

Then Erica summoned in her left hand a circular infantry shield made of steel, its red surface carved with the crest of a black cross. 

If Erica did not use magic to enhance her strength and explosive force, she would be unable to use these heavy armaments. 

"Good. It looketh like thou art ready. Let us begin!" 
The youth god announced cheerfully with a smile. 
Erica charged without hesitation. 

Using a light and slender sword all along was to develop a sense of heavy impact in her sword skills. Then conversely, what was the secret to using a heavy sword? — Speed as well as steady control. 

Erica lightly waved her right arm. 

From the shoulder to the elbow, and then combined with the force from the wrist, she swung that heavy and solid Cuore di Leone, slashing towards the youth god horizontally. 

From her shoulder to the tip of the sword, it was like a whip. 

For a human opponent, even a first class swordsman, this sort of move would be very difficult to figure out when seen for the first time. 

It was also extremely powerful. In its true form, Cuore di Leone was sharp enough to cut through concrete, not to mention the additional impact produced by the overwhelming weight. 

— But even against such an attack, the youth god easily blocked with the slender branch. 

Not only that, he slashed back... Correction, the youth god simply swung the branch lightly and Erica took the impact with the steel shield on her left, but the impact of the twig actually made her left hand tremble. 

Enduring the pain, she smashed the shield towards the body of the youth god. 

A rough tactic combining offense with defense. Erica aimed at the armor on the youth god's feet, stepping hard with her left foot! Her talents were not limited to the magnificent motions of her skill with the slender sword. 

The real techniques of the Copper Black Cross, were not only magnificent in appearance, but had many practical tactics in real combat. 

Driving these moves, Erica rapidly attacked without pause. 

But the youth god simply evaded these attacks by stepping left and right. 

And sometimes he would use the little branch to make counterattacks to weaken the momentum of Erica's offense. He was almost dancing like a butterfly and stinging like a bee. 

"Little lady! Thou hast trained well! If thou continuest, one day thou wilt become a strong warrior. Amazing!" 

He was even able to praise his opponent like that. 

Completely treating it as a game, but no matter, Erica had expected he would act like that from the start. 

Erica fought as she waited for the opportunity. 

Deliberately choosing a competition of swords, and using Cuore di Leone's true form to fight at full strength, these were all in preparation for the next step. 

She prayed that the youth god did not have divine powers of prediction or mind reading. 

And then Erica finally used her ultimate move. 

"Magic sword of the lion, abandon your sword body and transform into binding chains!" 

As the sword and the twig clashed repeatedly, Erica suddenly jumped backwards. 

At the same time chanting the short spell words, her beloved sword began to transform. 

Not into knight's weapons of sword and lance, but an iron chain roughly three meters in length. This iron chain also had a heavy weight on one end, and Erica swung it at the youth god's ankle. 

Intending to entangle his two feet and make him fall down. 

"Hahaha, to think thou hadst some kind of plan." 

Towards such a move, the youth god only smiled and jumped to evade. 

But Erica threw out the second chain, this time transformed from the shield in her left hand. 

It was deflected by the twig. 

However, in that instant Erica had closed the distance and approached the youth god. 

The chain in her right turned back into the massive sword — Cuore di 
Leone's original form, and slashed directly. In midair about to land, the youth god was hit by her full attack. 

Fresh blood instantly flew all around. 

Previously infused with spell words, the lion's magic sword had hacked off the god's right arm. 

— At that very instant, the blue flames of the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] blew forth, as if devouring Erica along with the youth's body. 

Part 3 

Diverting the youth's attention with a sword challenge. 

And then using the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] at this time, was the battle plan proposed by Erica. 

"...In other words, an attack that you will be caught up into? That's no longer a fight but suicide tactics." 

Godou felt deeply against it. 

"You're nagging too much. This kind of deception is the only way to battle a god. Since the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] steals a god's power, it won't have any harmful effects on me. Amongst all the strategies I came up with, this is the best choice." 

"But, if you lose in about ten seconds, then everything is over." 

"Of course I know that! But there is no other way, aiming the grimoire at him directly will never hit!" 

In the end with no other method, Godou could only follow Erica's instructions. 

Then she fought with all her might. The youth god underestimated her and fought with a cavalier attitude, resulting in getting his arm hacked off. 

In that instant, Godou had already held the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] in his hands without thought. 

The heat from the stone tablet was already testing the limits of his endurance. The blue flames shot out all at once, successfully capturing the youth god. 

Rushing forth, as if flying straight to the heavens, the mysterious blue flames that burned spectacularly. 

Erica walked out of the vortex and stood beside Godou. 

Asking if she was fine, she immediately answered 'no problem.' But from the pallor of her face, she was clearly forcing herself. The swordfight with the god must have been more mentally taxing than expected. 

"I'm fine here, Godou, you have to watch the flames carefully. Steal power from that deity quickly, and absorb his divine power to the maximum limits of the grimoire!" 

"Ah, yes." Hearing Erica's directions, Godou nodded. 

To be honest, he didn't even know how much divine power could be stored in this strange tool, and it kept feeling like it could absorb more. 

Then Godou began gazing at the flames, but at the instant he noticed the youth god within them — 

"Using the mystic stone of Prometheus, as expected." 
The youth god's voice sounded, still relaxed and composed. 
"You guessed it?" 

"Yes, is this not inevitable? The one trump card ye possess, effective against me, is this mystic stone alone. What remaineth are simply the questions of how and when." 

"Even if it was expected, it's too late, unless you have a way to escape that cluster of flames — " 

Conversing with the youth in the flames, Godou gradually felt unsettled. 
If he had a way to escape. 

Last night, Erica seemed to have mentioned. He was the war god who smashed every obstacle. 

If that was truly the case, could it be — 

"I now decree in my name, ancient sage Prometheus." 
The youth spoke in gentle tones: 

"Fearest me, and quickly dismissest thyself, Prometheus. I am the one who shall defeat all obstacles, whether the mighty or the unjust, neither can conquer me." 

Suddenly, the number of lights increased. 

Shining with golden splendor were ten, twenty spheres of light — close to a hundred were flying in the surroundings of the flames. 

Furthermore, the blue flames began to die down. 

The slender youth's figure appeared once more, illuminated by the golden light surrounding him. 

"Fearest me, Prometheus! Fearest me and my mighty name! My name is 
Verethragna! The guardian of light and the holy land! Fearest Verethragna, 
Prometheus!" 

It was finally said. The name finally appeared. 

The name meaning 'the one who smashed obstacles,' the sacred name that could not be uttered carelessly, and the name that Erica and Godou deliberately avoided as a god's taboo. 

Wind, bull, white stallion, camel, boar, youth, raptor, ram, goat, as well as the human warrior wielding the golden sword. 

The ever victorious war god who possessed ten incarnations — his name is 
Verethragna. 

"Speech is light. Spell words are light. So light and spell words, become my sword, form into my blade!" 

Before dawn, Erica had mentioned. 

The ancient Persian warlord, the protector serving the god of light, Mithra. 

Called the protector of the light in western Asia, he had the same origins as 
Indra the thunder god in India. 

In Japan there was Vajradhara^, and had links to both eastern and western civilization. Also thought to be Heracles by some, Verethragna's current battle against Melqart can be considered the showdown between ancestor and descendant. 

Yes, he was a war god without the distinction of being oriental or occidental, the ultimate war god descended upon the earth. 

Verethragna was surrounded by a vast amount of light, giving off spectacular radiance. 

"I recognize thee, Prometheus. Thy place of punishment, is the summit of the Caucasus. Thou art the god of fire once; thou art the god of theft once; thou art a hero once!" 

As Verethragna spoke softly, the dancing lights multiplied intensely. 
At the same time, the flames disappeared. 

"I, Verethragna am the sword — the hero of might. However, thou art the hero of wisdom, granting fire to the foolish humans — the sage who taught civilization, the prankster who deceived gods through wisdom, the sun and shadows watching over the human race, similar to Amirani^ of the 
Caucasus and Loki of the far north." 

The golden light seemed to surpass the sun's brightness. 

The grimoire's flames completely dissipated. 

"How could this be... The golden sword's true form actually consists of the spell words for severing a god's power." 

Erica explained beside Godou with a face full of surprise. 

"Spell, spell words?" 

"Yes, wasn't Verethragna describing what kind of god Prometheus was just now? Those are not simply explanations of knowledge, but spell words carrying magical power — basically a weapon to slash apart another deity once he understands what kind of god he was up against. In other words, it is a spell that can be called the sword of wisdom." 

In other words, this was probably the true identity of the shining light that sliced up the [Boar] at Cagliari, and the golden sword that defeated the 
[Goat] and the [Raptor] at Dorgali. 

And now if the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]'s power was ineffective against the youth god — 

Then there was nothing left to stop the war god. 

Godou looked with fearful eyes at the one whom he had spent a short but happy time together, the youth war god, and the god named 
Verethragna — With his usual rosy dawn-like smile, he gazed down at 
Godou. 

Yes, though standing on the same ground, he was clearly despising humans, looking down from the perspective of the absolute power and victory. 

"I have fulfilled one promise, but now there is another — punishing ye accordingly." 

Declaring this with a haughty attitude, Verethragna's right arm regrew in an instant. 

Erica took out her sword once more, and prepared her stance. 

"What art thou afraid of, I am not going to take both ye lives. But ye resist with such deceit, most vexing... Ye shall receive my blessing, my might and authority! Obey my command!" 

— What was this! Godou was completely shocked. 

His knees bent down by themselves. His body knelt at the youth automatically and performed the greeting rites of a subject towards a king! 
What kind of power was this!? 

Looking carefully, Erica beside him was also bending her knees. 

It was just their bodies losing control, their expressions and their hearts still belonged to them, and the two of them looked at each other. 

"Godou, pull yourself together! This is the [Youth] — Verethragna's divine power as the hero! The spell words were for protecting us humans, but in return, we become his servants... Resist his command quickly!" 

Erica instantly warned. 

She seemed to be struggling to resist, preventing herself from kneeling. 

Due to her opposition, Erica's posture returned to normal. 

Raising her sword once again, she pointed it at the youth with all her strength. 

"Hohoho, witch, force thyself not. Or else, there will be repercussions." 
The youth was laughing. 

Forcing others to serve him, he was very happy, laughing with innocence. 
"Aaaaaaaahhhh!" 

Erica's painful screams were suddenly heard, and she fell over. 

About to kneel down, Godou noticed the strange state of her ankles. Her ankles were bent at an unnatural angle. This was not a simple injury, it was definitely a bone breaking deformation. 

What did the youth do? Godou glared with reproach at the smiling youth god. 

"I cannot be blamed, boy, the reason is due to me, but I did not act directly. 
It was the girl who was far too stubborn, and broketh her own body. Pain would be avoided if my commands were obediently obeyed." 

Erica's slim body had fallen over. 

Her ankles bent at an impossible angle. Her beautiful face distorted by pain. Her blonde hair soiled by dust and earth. 

Casually viewing everything, the handsome but inhuman youth — no, it was the profile of the [Heretic God] Verethragna. 

In the instant Godou saw all this, it felt like something broke. 

The enemy was a god, but so what? 

Gods were impossible to defeat. Was it really true? With so many openings, taking battle so lightly, treating enemies so severely, was there really no way to defeat the completely changed guy before Godou's eyes? 

No such thing. 

How could there be such a thing! 

...Godou slowly but effortlessly stood up. He no longer felt the dominating power of the hero. Perhaps it was seeing Erica suffering that caused this. 

"Boy, how incredible. Is this also the power of Prometheus? How didst thou escape from the shackles of my spell words?" 

"How could I know this kind of thing, but the reasons behind it — I have some idea." 

Godou glared at Verethragna head on. 

He could feel more greatness from the youth he met in Cagliari despite the fact that becoming the current state of heretic Verethragna should have better revealed his true power. 

"Oh?" 

"All you have right now is strong power. Yes, a god stronger than anyone else, but just a willful monster. You cannot be called a hero in this state. I don't consider a guy a hero with just power alone! This is why I don't want to obey, and feel no need to kneel. Any objections?" 

Incantations, spell words, the power of language. 

Godou simply did not believe in the existence of these things, but now, through clearly articulating his disobedience against Verethragna, Godou's terror was gradually disappearing. 

"Only the powerful have the disposition to become heroes, this has been absolute truth since ancient times." 

Verethragna made a humorous smile as if mocking a foolish child. 

"Thou truly makest me speechless, to think thy obstinacy has resisted my spell words! Though strange it is decidedly a great achievement, praiseworthy." 

"No, this is not my power, it is just the fact that you are a hopeless guy." 

The god before him definitely prided in his absolute power. 

A mage like Erica should be able to calculate his power, and so she would treat as god this monster in the form of a youth, offering her respect to this great existence. 

But Godou was neither a mage nor did he have any knowledge about gods. 

Which was why he would think this way. That guy before — the one who lost his memory, is the true amazing one. Though he also boasted about not losing in any competition, he would mix himself amongst the crowd, and give off sacred charisma as bright as the sun's brilliance, and would fly like the wind to help those in need. 

But now, the god before him was not like that. 

This guy only had great power, nothing to be admired, and no one will seek his aid. 

"The current you only calls himself a hero, but there is nothing about you that fits that description. So of course, you can't use a hero's power!" 

"Yes, I understand what thou art trying to say. Even so, the fact remaineth, 
I am the undefeated god of victory, dost thou still wish to resist? It is better to obey honestly." 

"Oh really? That description of absolute victory, also sounds very strange." 

Having started he might as well go all out. With this spirit, Godou clenched his teeth and spoke words that belittled the god. 

Since things have come to this, he will resist to the utter end with twisted logic. 

Hearing these words, Verethragna furrowed his brow. 

...The war god who treated everything with aloofness, showed displeasure for the first time, could this be angering him? 

"You have always made light of competition. In your matches against Erica and me, you deliberately let us choose our talents, and played with us. Did you really believe you would win without doubt?" 

Unfortunately, Godou had never had a competition where he was assured of victory. 

He has always analyzed his enemies, or thought up strategies beforehand based on the capabilities and habits of his future opponents. When necessary, for the sake of victory, Godou has even performed strange tricks that were akin to breaking the rules. 

In their junior days, Miura often fell for Godou's tricks as his opponent. 

When he came up to Godou after losing so many times, Godou always explained it as "that's not real talent." But that was just trying to act cool. In fact, Godou was thinking "though that guy has a bit of talent, he's just a simple-minded fool, so I definitely cannot lose to him." That was the situation. 

Since he didn't want others to know his obsession with winning, Godou would never reveal these things. 

From the perspective of Godou's competitive personality, he definitely cannot approve of Verethragna's cavalier attitude towards competition. 

"Even if you are a god, in a thousand matches, your opponent may very well snatch up a victory! The next thing to do is how to lure out this chance of a thousand." 

Of course, Verethragna dismissed Godou's words with a laugh. 

"Boy, that kind of thing is impossible. Before me, a god, what good would come from hoping for such a rare occurrence? With just a little finger, shall 
I burn thee to charcoal?" 

He was completely right. 

But for this once, things are not that certain. 

Actually, the finishing move Godou considered as he watched Erica's fight with Verethragna, as well as during his argument with the god, was a strange trick no different from cheating. 

No, Godou thought again. 

This was not cheating, rather, it's called relying on external power. 

"Even so, the fact remains. You are overconfident. Just like now — hey, god! You've seen the power possessed by my stone tablet here!? Next you will take on the role of Erica — the girl just now, and perhaps it will be successful? So grant me power!" 

Godou roared angrily at the sky. 

The voice heard from the dialogue when Verethragna breached the forest barrier, Godou heard it again, that majestic voice. 

'Hahahahahaha! I was expecting some kind of farce and watched quietly! 
Who could have expected the victorious warlord to fall for a human's tricks!' 

The Phoenician divine king Melqart. 

His grand laughter reverberated across the sky and the forest. 

To speak to the king of the gods in such a manner, your wish is too impertinent, boy! But your observation is not bad, so let me reward you a little! Verethragna, your most troublesome ability is that [Sword], but can it become a weapon that can slay Prometheus and me, two gods at the same time?' 

Suddenly, space distorted. 
Out flew two clubs. 

'Yagrush the Chaser! Ayamur the Driver! Pursuers, the pair of weapons acting on my behalf, chase and drive out the eastern warlord! Show him the power of my wrath!' 

"Ch.JThat King Melqart!" 

Verethragna's handsome face was once again distorted by vexation. 

Godou's eyes had allowed him to strike and send innumerable fastballs flying in the past. But at a height beyond his sight, two clubs — Chaser and 
Driver were rising up in the sky. 

One of them approached like lightning from the front, while the other attacked from behind like a flying bird. 

Verethragna jumped high and became [Wind], however, the two clubs coordinated as if they knew the precise locations, chasing after the strong wind. 

" — Godou! Hurry and use the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]! Before 
Verethragna chants the spell words to conquer King Melqart!" 

Sprawled on the ground, Erica frantically called out. 

Godou hurriedly raised the grimoire high, and the diagram depicting the bound Prometheus suddenly sent forth grand blue flames. Probably because it was his third time using it, Godou found it much easier to operate. 

"Ooooooooooh!" 

The strong wind prepared to use the [Sword], and returned to the form of the youth in midair. 

As the blue flames approached, they were instantly intercepted by the golden spheres of light. 

However, one of the clubs came flying and directly struck Verethragna on his thin chest armor. 

"Ooh!?" Verethragna gave off a painful grunt, and the brilliance of his light spheres dimmed. 

'Do you have the power to use the [Sword] simultaneously with other incarnations? Of course the answer is no! Just as you saw through my powers, I too, saw through yours! You broke my barrier just now, and your power is not at full strength! Continuing to consume your divine powers this way, your existence will become precarious! Just like the brat said, you are overconfident, Verethragna!' 

"No, this has not ended! My defeat has not been sealed, King Melqart!" 

Verethragna yelled at the divine king's thunderous voice. 

"The pursuers of Chaser and Driver! These were the weapons given to thee by the god of craftsmen. Kothar-wa-Khasis! As Baal, thou used them to lure the dragon king Yanrr * away from his throne, and slew him! 
Through this victory, thou ascended to the throne of the divine king!" 

Could these also be spell words — incantations produced by the golden 
[Sword]. 

Godou held his breath. 

Was Verethragna currently exchanging the [Sword] against Prometheus to a sword for Melqart? Even if that happens, the situation is unchanged. 
There was only one way to reverse the tide of battle, yes. 

Dual wielding. 

Just as Godou predicted, the golden light gathered upon Verethragna's two hands. 

The light gradually concentrated, forming long swords with golden blades, one in each hand. 

'Ha, a desperate attack! Haha, that's the renowned Verethragna! Rather than choosing defeat through overconfidence, it is better to fight beyond one's limits. This spirit is excellent, now let me have a good fight against you!' 

Melqart's voice bellowed thunderously with glee. 

On the other hand, there was already a deep red trail of fresh blood on 
Verethragna's forehead. His lips still chanting spell words sonorously, the elegant and handsome face had become pale. 

Even so, he was still flying in the air wielding two swords majestically. 

The two clubs Chaser and Driver flying back and forth, and the blue flames of the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] dancing in the air like a comet. 

The battle between gods, was still undecided. 

Part 4 

Verethragna's twin swords, Melqart's clubs and Prometheus' flames collided in the air. 

Down below, Godou hurriedly picked up Erica in his arms as her feet were injured. 

"Can you still walk? Please bear it for now. It's very dangerous here, so it'd be best to move to another location." 

"Godou... You managed to trick a [Heretic God], what an amazing achievement." 

While the gods battled intensely, the two of them entered the forest. 

Leaning Erica, who was unable to walk properly, against his shoulder, the two walked side by side. 

At last they reached the foot of a great tree. 

Setting Erica down, Godou held the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] once again. 

Verethragna had the advantage in the air battle due to his weapons that could seal divine power and slay enemies. That should be obvious. 

Chaser, Driver and the blue flames were slashed an uncountable number of times. 

The youth god achieving victory was likely just a matter of time. However, his flying movements in the air as well as sword speed did seem to be gradually getting sluggish. 

"If this continues, it will be very hard for the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] to steal his power." 

"How about this — Godou, before Verethragna comes, hurry and escape alone. I'm just a burden to you, abandon me here." 

Resting against the tree, Erica spoke painfully. 

The exquisite voice with clarity, and the face whose beauty was unaffected by the dust, sand and sweat. It was only now that Godou was finally struck by a real sense of how beautiful this girl was. 

"Can you use healing magic? Like those moves commonly seen in games?" 

"I can, but it takes a certain amount of time for the spell to take effect. 
Healing these two legs... Probably would take thirty minutes, so it will be too late." 

A technique that could heal these legs which looked like they were snapped, was probably a very powerful spell. 

However, it was entirely useless in this situation. 

Now, there was only one thing that could be used. 

Godou looked at Verethragna's direction with determination, and said to 
Erica: 

"So, the only trump card is Prometheus' stone tablet after all. I will think of a way to be that guy's opponent. Use that magic quickly. Once your legs are healed, we'll run together." 

"Don't be stupid! You're going to push Verethragna to that degree! Who knows what kind of divine retribution you will suffer!?" 

"However, that guy can transform into the wind, right? If I run away alone, I will be caught eventually. So without you coming along, I probably won't be able to escape." 

Godou deeply sighed at this time. 

"To be frank, there's no other way other than that move. However — " 
"However?" 

"Didn't Erica mention before? That guy likes me more. I am also very concerned about him. For a former friend to turn into something like that, it really feels bad to just leave him alone and do nothing." 

Though their time together was short, Godou felt as a friend that the youth has strayed from the right path. 

What could he do — no idea. 

Even with wounds all over his body, the powerful warlord continued to fight with great spirit. 

What could he do — no idea. 

Even so Godou had to stay and witness the final moment, this feeling was very real. 

"You really... Are a true idiot?" 

"I completely cannot deny that. When you say stuff like that now, I can only accept them all." 

Faced with the admonishing from the witch and the female knight, Godou replied with gentleness instead. 

Erica stared at the sky as if she had given up, sighing briefly. 

"Idiot, also a really big idiot, so stupid that you are a hopeless idiot." 

"Fine... If it makes you happy, say whatever you like, I don't want to argue anymore." 

Unable to awaken Godou from his foolishness, Erica smiled. It was neither a smile of mockery nor pity, but seemed to be mostly carrying the feelings of giving up. 

"But amidst all that foolishness, there's a little bit of cuteness... I will ask you one last time, will you change your decision?" 

"No, I owe him a favor, so I cannot choose to run." 

"...Favor? If so, then so be it." 

With a few exchanges, Erica had already realized. 

Godou felt very surprised and happy at the same time. Finally able to reach a mutual understanding with this girl, he definitely would never expect this to happen the first time they met. 

"Leaving everything to 'so be it,' that is really vexing for us weak humans. 
No matter what, we have to give the gods some hardship to suffer." 

Saying that, Erica went silent for a while, deep in thought. 

And then she stared at Godou's face seriously and said: 

"We probably forgot, but the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] has stored within it Verethragna's divine power — the ability of the [White Stallion] incarnation, right?" 

"Ah yes. I think so. Though it's a power related to the sun, why is it a horse?" 

"I will explain that to you later. Listen to me carefully? When you go over to 
Verethragna, if you feel it is the end, don't hesitate, just use this power as quickly as possible." 

Hearing Erica's advice, Godou suddenly stared with eyes wide open. 

Wasn't this the move that Lucretia warned 'never to use it.' 

"If I do that I will definitely die. Didn't Lucretia-san warn us?" 

"If this continues, we're all going to die. But if you try that, perhaps it will become a giant reversal. You know the rules for promotion in chess, right?" 

Godou tilted his head in puzzlement, not knowing what Erica was considering. 

It was something like a rule that allowed pawn pieces reaching the far rank on the opposite side to be exchanged for a queen or a knight. In terms of 
Japanese chess^, there was a similar concept where pieces can promote in the three rows of the opponent's territory. 

"Unfortunately, not everything can go smoothly... Your chance of dying is very high, but if successful, the reward is very substantial. Compared to plain sacrifice, there is value in attempting this." 

She was showing a most gentle smile. 

Like the tiny flower bud of the Australian Red Cedar, a smile like a noble princess. This girl could actually smile like that, how unexpected, Godou felt like he couldn't tear his gaze away. 

"Kusanagi Godou, you are a very foolish person, but it is precisely this foolishness that has led you on a path to here. That is the truth. So why don't you join the ranks of the most foolish, as well as the greatest people in the world. I'm not going to ask you to gather your courage, rather, please stick with your foolishness to the very end — understood?" 

"Yes, I almost get it... But being called an idiot or foolish by you all along, somehow feels complicated." 

"Ah, I was praising you. A most affectionate nickname of 'idiot' — can't you even feel that? What a slow person." 

"I completely cannot feel that. I've never heard of 'idiot' carrying such deep meanings." 

Faced with Godou's surrendering, Erica laughed. 

"Actually I just realized something, 'Epimetheus' illegitimate children,' another name for Campiones which I explained before. But this description has a strange hidden meaning." 

"Epimetheus. Another deity from Greek mythology? That's the feeling I get from the name." 

"Yes, you are correct. If we have a chance to meet again, I will definitely explain it to you. So don't hesitate and go for it, Godou, take the path which even the courageous and clever people cannot pass through. The only ones capable of walking upon it are the great fools, I believe you have that disposition." 

"...I don't really understand, but I get the message. Thanks for taking care of me. Thank you." 

Godou expressed his gratitude for the profound meaning in her words. 

Actually, there was an additional reason for approaching Verethragna's side. 

If he abandoned this strong yet beautiful girl covered with thorns like a rose, and ran away by himself, Kusanagi Godou will never forgive himself for the rest of his life. 

Instead, he preferred to have a showdown against a god. 

To leave a girl in need, nowhere felt as good as giving up his body to protect the girl. 

Though he had made his decision in his heart, however — 

He could not possibly speak out such thoughts. If he said it out, the prideful 
Erica Blandelli would definitely fight to the last moment even if it meant breaking her own legs. 

"Right, wait a minute, Godou. Bend down and lean your ear close." 
Was Erica going to give me a new suggestion? 

Her elegant poise just now, had become a little bashful — was it something difficult to put into words? 

And it has to be whispered? 

Puzzled, Godou did as he was told. Slowly moving towards Erica who could not stand up from the pain in her legs, he brought his ear to her lips. 

Under such conditions, she still seemed to be hesitating. 

"What is it, don't you have something to say?" 

"Yes, well... I already said what I wanted to just now..." 

"Then why do I have to make this pose?" 

"Right, just shut up! I just want to give you a wonderful present!" 

The unexpected attack came just at that instant. 

After a period of hesitation, as if suddenly making her decision, she pressed her lips, the color of cherry blossoms, near Godou's cheek, and kissed him. 

Smooch... 

The soft and light sensation was being transmitted. 

Godou's mind suddenly went blank. 

A very small, light touch, but the shock was exceedingly great! What was this girl doing! 

"Y-You, why did you do that? What was that about!?" 

"S-Shut up! To be surprised by something like this! It's just... Right, it's just a lucky charm! It's really rushed, but I believe it is the most useful!" 

Embarrassed, Erica's cheeks were bright red. 

"The only males I've ever kissed till now, were my uncle and father! So it will definitely be very effective! Show me some gratitude!" 

Godou's cheek — no, his entire face felt hot. 

His own face was probably all red as well, it couldn't be helped. The day finally came when a beautiful girl would kiss him like this, he never dreamed it was possible. 

It was already impossible to look at Erica's face properly. 

She frantically turned her body, and Godou rushed forth towards the god who was once his friend. 

Nuraghe sa Bastia. At the firmly sealed entrance created by Melqart. 

Sliced into halves, Chaser and Driver lied broken embedded in the ground, while Prometheus' blue flames had already died out at some point. 

Verethragna breathed heavily, his golden swords no longer in his hands. 

He was now in a condition where his body was covered with wounds. 

In this state, it was his final direct confrontation with Godou who was wielding the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. 

"Boy, I must say thou hast done well. But as thou seest, I have defeated 
King Melqart's weapons, thy flames have been vanquished, and the only thing that concerns me is Prometheus' mystic stone. Makest haste, givest that to me." 

"No way, unless you agree to leave this island. This is the last trump card of us humans, I cannot casually give it up for my own sake." 

Godou resolutely resisted the hand extended by Verethragna. 

Godou's insistence made the youth sigh audibly. 

"A hopeless fellow. To think I, the warlord, would be forced to use divine power against a mere human brat as an opponent, what a waste of time!" 

Muttering, Verethragna slowly approached. 

His footsteps were heavy, as if extremely fatigued. 

Thus his subsequent actions occurred just as Godou predicted. The god in the youth's form suddenly kicked at the ground. 

Without divine power, what moves would he make? He could only depend on his body. In the instant Godou realized that, the impact came. 

Hit by Verethragna's spinning kick, Godou was sent flying. 

Still, it had missed his head. Evading the direct attack was thanks to his well-trained dynamic vision. He also held on to the [Secret Tome of 
Prometheus] with all his strength, so he didn't let go. 

"At this point, aren't you going to use your true capabilities against someone like me? You are still making light of competition." 

"This is not a competition, only punishment for a foolish human who doth not know his place." 

It was right, even if it were a competition of martial arts or sports, Godou had no chances of winning. 

However, even though he was at a disadvantage, Godou could not let himself be looked down upon. 

"Erica told me already, what kind of god was Verethragna — the god who transformed all the time, and could obtain victory no matter the battlefield, right? Originally a god of the warrior ranks of the royal clan, and with rising popularity became worshiped and venerated, finally becoming the protector god of the people and justice, right?" 

"Correct, that is my origin!" 

This time it was a forward kick that attacked Godou. 

Though it did not strike a fatal spot, Verethragna's attack was very vicious. 

Feeling an impact that felt like a car crash, Godou was sent flying again, and fell on the ground, his consciousness slipping for a moment. 

"Obviously such a great god, but playing around with a brat like me, isn't that kind of strange? When I met you at the pier, it wasn't like that eh? 
More similar to the sun, worthy of admiration — just as you described. 
That's right, like a hero!" 

"Sayest no more, these are things that happened while I had forgotten my nature as a [Heretic God]. Originally in the myths, I was the son of the sun, the hero guarding the light." 

This time it was a palm strike, and then a punch, followed by a karate chop. 

Fast attacks that made evasion and defense useless, Godou was being pummeled like a sandbag, getting tossed around like a ball. 

His body ached all over, feeling like scorching heat, and there were severe bruises everywhere, perhaps even broken bones. 

His consciousness was getting fuzzy, and more importantly, his whole body hurt. 

"However, it is all past and gone. Nostalgia will never bring back the past." 

Verethragna left those words. 

But Godou didn't agree, even considering the current situation, his right hand continued clutching the [Secret Tome of Prometheus]. This was the result of the grip and determination of the fourth hitter. 

"Why did you give this stone tablet back to me? The second time we met, why did you let me keep it? Wouldn't it have been better to destroy it back then?" 

The scene at Dorgali during that time. Didn't the youth say that in the end? 
When the time comes, he must use this for the world. 
That was probably a farewell of a lifetime. 

In other words, the guy already knew back then, if the incarnations split from Verethragna, those divine beasts were defeated, he would turn back into [Heretic Verethragna] in the future. 

— Which is why Godou owed him a favor. 

The youth at Cagliari had gotten Godou and the young men at the pier involved together, and played happily. 

The youth at Dorgali had used the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] to defeat the [Goat], but didn't expect to have to fight the [Raptor] so soon. 

He defeated the divine beasts which had been born from his incarnations, and took back his power as a god. 

At the same time retrieving his identity as the [Heretic God], the divine name of Verethragna that should have been sealed, as well as the characteristics of resisting the myths and holding contempt for humans. 

In response to Godou's wish, he defeated his split incarnations. 

Therefore, that youth no longer existed. 

The youth he encountered at Cagliari, then met again at Dorgali, existed no more, and now, before Godou's eyes was only the youth god named 
Verethragna. 

Knowing this would happen, Godou would not have gone to fight when they met for the second time. 

And now he understood very well, it was due to Kusanagi Godou's willfulness that he had no choice but to return to the unwanted original form, and very cautiously, saved for Godou the trump card that could cause him pain. 

If this wasn't a favor, what else could it be? 

Hence Godou had no choice but to attempt to stop Verethragna at all costs, he definitely needs to be stopped! 

"Just as thou described, that truly was my mistake. Hohoho, why would I do such a thing... I cannot remember." 

"Really? You really can't recall?" 

His body covered with wounds, Godou was sprawled on the ground as he questioned the god. 

Now he finally understood. What that guy actually hoped for Kusanagi 
Godou to do and expected from him. The handsome face of the youth god looking down upon humans from above, now bore a little resemblance to that guy before. 

"...Hmm. I really cannot recall it, boy, pray forgivest me." 

"Who will forgive you? What a forgetful god, I will complain about you on behalf of mankind." 

His gaze met with the youth's. 

The human youth glared at the quiet eyes of the [Heretic God] who had lost himself. 

The attacks had stopped, Godou forced his battered body, and finally stood up. 

— Hmph. 

Sighing slightly, Verethragna smiled peacefully. 

"Hoho, thou art not a bad fellow. If fate had not brought thee to encounter gods, perhaps thou wouldst be living a peaceful life. How unfortunate for thee, boy." 

"Yeah that's right. All the fellows I met on this island are weirdos. However, 
I don't find myself unfortunate." 

"Ha, though our opinions differ, even from thy perspective, is that not a bit too contrived?" 

Verethragna and Kusanagi Godou. 

Just like the time they met the first day at the harbor of Cagliari, the two were chatting. 

Only four days has passed, but who could have expected in such short time, the situation between the two of them would undergo such drastic change. 

"Though weird, everyone was very interesting. The proud and spoilt genius, whose true nature turned out to be a very gentle witch; and then there's the lazy old lady who insisted in looking like a youngster." 

"Oh?" 

"There's more. The amnesiac and overconfident god, this guy is currently causing trouble for others, but still I don't really hate him." 

"Thy life is already held in a god's hands, yet thou darest make such jokes. 
How disrespectful!" 

"If you want me to respect you, then act a little more like a god. Isn't that simple?" 

It was no longer a staring contest. 

The god and the human's eyes only stared at each other for about ten-odd seconds. 

The first to avert his gaze was Verethragna. 

"At this point it is impossible. I have returned to my heretic self. In my current state, only meeting with defeat and obtaining new life will I return to the true path of the gods. So, how much time dost thou think it will take?" 

Showing a smile like the rosy clouds of dawn, the youth extended his hand. 

In it were tiny sparks, like the early signs of lightning. 

The direction this hand extended towards, was the youth he once acted together with. 

"All you need is defeat? Then, let me give that to you." 

Godou's trembling hand raised the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] and aimed it at the warlord. 

Responding to the will of the wielder, the stone tablet gradually heated up. 

"Stop, boy, a human using a god's power will exceed thy limits, art thou planning to use the divine power of my [White Stallion]? If so, thou shalt die in the end. Obediently handest it over. I shall save thy life if thou compliest." 

"Too annoying, to be ordered by a god who brings so much trouble to mankind, how could I do as I'm told!" 

"Foolish! If thou attackest me in these conditions, at best thou wilt achieve mutual defeat. Thou art aware?" 

"Maybe not — Erica, that fellow who is smarter than me said, this could very well end with a perfect outcome — so I will take a gamble, even though I have no idea about the logic, if there is a chance for success, I will risk everything on this gamble!" 

"At the end of thy short human lifespan, to think thou wouldst make such a foolish gamble. Thou art truly a troublesome brat!" 

"...My name is Kusanagi Godou. Remember it well." 

"What?" 

"We've already done all sorts of things together, come on, you should have remembered my name. Just like Erica, you overlooked it? What a rude guy." 

The two youths gazed at each other once again. 

Looking down from above, the youth god smiled. 

The spurned human youth expressed regret for his reluctance to accept things. In the next instant, from the hand appeared lightning, while white flames appeared from the stone tablet. 

Mutual defeat. The attacks unleashed by the two youths, achieved exactly mutual defeat. 

Part 5 

'Hmph, hahahahahahaha. How useless of you, Verethragna. To think the god of victory would meet defeat at the hands of a frail and weak human child.' 

"Quiet, King Melqart. Thou art the useless one, to think thou wouldst be used by such a fellow." 

— This was the dialogue heard by Godou's hazy consciousness. 

His limbs harshly complained to him in pain, while his brain and entire body felt scorching hot. 

The backlash from the [Secret Tome of Prometheus] mentioned by 
Lucretia, the damage received from Verethragna, as well as the final lightning attack, these were probably the full set of causes for the current pain. 

Having received so much damage, he hasn't died. How strange. 

'Hmph, without the precondition of aligned interests, I would not have agreed to this fellow's proposal. Of course, don't you forget, this fellow and 
I are about to awaken. For his act of rudeness and not knowing his place, in a moment I will make him suffer well.' 

"Awaken?" 

'Did you forget, warlord, the curse left behind by the damnable brother and sister-in-law of Prometheus, Epimetheus and Pandora? The dark birth ritual that gives rise to the child of the fool and the witch, the secret rite that only succeeds when a god is used as a sacrifice! Watch, your divine power is already flowing into this fellow's body and mind!' 

"Oh, hohoho, I see. So her goal was this, that witch. A girl that truly cannot be underestimated!" 

'What a strange fellow. Laughing after a defeat? Has your brain gone rotten?' 

"Thou embarrassest thyself, divine king. 'Tis only one defeat. If this level of setback cannot be accepted, I can only say it is a matter of magnanimity. 
As my first and last defeat, it feeleth like a good experience! Certainly, there will be no second defeat!" 

"Hoho, Verethragna-sama really, truly hates failure." 

"Oh, you are — I see. Thou noticed the birth of a new child." 

'Pandora, the woman who bestowed everything upon them! You have appeared in person!' 

"Ah, divine king-sama, it's been a while. As long as gods and humans are present, I will appear. For I am the witch who brought forth all disasters and a shred of hope, there is nothing to be surprised, right? ...This child is my new son. Hoho, is it painful? Do bear it, this pain is the price for taking you to the highest summit, accept it well!" 

A sweet and loving voice could be heard near Godou's ear, gently caressing his head. 

Who was the owner of this voice? Was it Erica? 

"Then let everyone present grant their blessing and their hatred to this child! The seventh Campione — possessing the destiny of the youngest devil king, please bestow the sacred spell words upon this child!" 

'Shut up, witch! Your newborn child, I will bury him immediately.' 

"Hoho, very well. Then Kusanagi Godou, I grant my blessing to thee who has been reborn as the new god-slaying king! Thou art the first person to usurp mine — the authority of the god of victory! Becomest stronger than anyone else! Until the day I shall fight thee again, possessest my undefeatable body!" 

The healing magic still had not taken complete effect. 

That was why Erica Blandelli could only drag her painful right leg to the ruins. Clearly she would have been healed after ten-odd minutes, but she couldn't wait. 

"—Godou!" 

Seeing the Nuraghe sa Bastia which had become all wrecked by the battle between gods, over there lay a Japanese youth deep in slumber. 

Erica breathed a sigh of relief as she saw him safe and sound. 

The intense pain from using the divine power stolen by the [Secret Tome of 
Prometheus], combined with the shock from Verethragna's full strength electric strike, Erica couldn't imagine just how painful it was. 

But now, Kusanagi Godou — 

Wrapped in tattered clothes, his body had all sorts of injuries including bruises, broken bones and burns, however — 

He was sleeping peacefully. 

That satisfied and sleeping face no longer had a single wound. As for the other injuries, they would all recover in time... His vitality and recovery had already surpassed humans and approached a level similar to the gods. 

"You killed the god, right, Kusanagi Godou... The seventh Campione is born!" 

Erica's legs lost strength and gave way as she murmured to herself in a trembling voice. 

Watching the sleeping Campione — the face of the youth who lorded over the fate of the world, and would one day become the [King] of the magi and be worshiped, she said: 

"You probably don't know, right? The secret ritual to be reborn as a 
Campione, came from Prometheus' younger brother Epimetheus and his wife Pandora, the incident when the box containing all disasters and a shred of hope was opened." 

Hesitating only for a moment, Erica lifted Godou's head. 

Normally she would never do something like that, but this was a special reward, because to his credit, he was now the one who has defeated a god. 

"Prometheus' name means 'one who thought ahead,' in other words, the sage with foresight. Conversely, Epimetheus means 'one who thought afterwards,' in other words, the fool who only regretted in hindsight after taking action first." 

Erica was letting her knees act as a pillow for Godou to lie on, and also took the opportunity to wipe with her handkerchief the blood, sweat and soil from his face. 

Erica spoke on the subject of gods. 

"Only a fool like you could receive the grace of Epimetheus. A smart person will never fight a god one on one. I should have explained that to you just now. Therefore, Campiones are also known as 'Epimetheus' illegitimate children.' In other words the son of the fool, a most fitting title, you big idiot." 

She should take this chance to scold him as much as possible. 

Afterwards, were he to become a harsh tyrant, even reproaching him like this would be impossible. 

...No, if such a day did arrive, she will definitely be responsible for resisting, for he became born as [King] because of her. 

However — 

This was an impossible future. 

From now on, he will be facing a life of unimaginable conflict and hardship. 

Even if he desired peace, but whether the world or the magi, and especially the gods, none of them will leave him alone. 

"Fine, this is enough, when the time comes I will accompany you a little longer. I am responsible for your gaining this kind of body, and I am a bit concerned about your affairs. Of course, it also depends on whether you plead for my assistance with sincerity or not." 

Erica was talking to herself. 

Of course she knew he could not hear, but beginning just now she had a sort of unbelievable feeling, and she didn't want to stay silent. 

"So, Kusanagi Godou, hurry and wake up. The Great Knight of the Copper 
Black Cross, the peerless Erica Blandelli is waiting for you to awaken, oh? 
I won't forgive you for making me wait, oh?" 

However, this voice was extremely soft. 

The [Kingj's slumber cannot be disturbed. Of course Erica knew it was pointless to do this, but she somehow had an incredible feeling. 

Why was she wasting time doing these things? 

Whatever... After all, they were just on a whim. 

On the long road of life, taking a small detour should have no significant effect on the whole. So the birth of the youngest [King], she will continue observing for a while. 

It was at the moment she made her decision. 

The triangular hole at a corner of the ruins — the entrance to the underground temple, Erica stared at it with wide open eyes. 

The defensive wall of rock erected by the divine king of the Phoenicians had vanished. 

On the other hand, appearing in the sky over the hole was a mass of black clouds, surrounded by flashing lightning, and the wind was blowing vortices. 

"King Melqart, you have appeared?" 

'Hoho, exactly. That brat's rebirth, seems to have concluded peacefully. I can feel the Campione's presence. His body exudes the presence of my enemy, the ancient warrior!' 

The divine king's voice could be heard coming from the black shadow. 

"So king, are you going to fight the new Campione now?" 

'Foolish words! I am the king of the gods, the great warrior, the strongest hunter who slays dragons! How could I possibly do something so despicable towards a newborn little brat!' 

Seeing Erica face the black shadow proudly, Melqart's voice began to announce loudly. 

'Pass these words to him when he wakes up! Your first enemy was the war god Verethragna, the second one is me — Melqart! Very soon I will recover all my power. When that time comes, take the place of that war god, my spears of fury will be aimed at you! Polish your sword and wait for my arrival!' 

Boom! As a gust of violent wind began to blow, the black shadow flew away like lightning. 

King Melqart had left the premises. 

"That's right, you sure have it rough, to be targeted by that crude god." 

Erica shrugged and continued to watch Godou's peaceful sleeping face. 

"No other way, I will guard you for a while then. You owe me, and I will make you pay me back well. Even if you are a [King], debts have to be settled. Be prepared, Kusanagi Godou!" 

And that concludes the story of the beginning. 

The story of the youth who obtained power due to his destiny to slay a god, as well as his encounter with his young lady knight. 

Thus ends one scene of the saga. What begins next, is the story of all sorts of commotions brought forth to the world by the devil king and his knight. 

References 

1 . t Kothar-wa-Khasis: a Canaanite craftsman god who aided Baal in his battles. Considered the equivalent of the Greek god 
Hephaestus. http://en.wi kipedia.org/wiki/Kothar-wa-Khasis 

2. t Vajradhara: (#l#HJ) the ultimate primordial Buddha, his name means the bearer of the thunderbolt. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vajradhara 

3. t Amirani: a culture hero of a Georgian epic who resembles the 
Classical Prometheus. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amirani 

4. t Yam: a god of the sea popular in ancient Egyptian times. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yam_(god) 

5. t shogi: literally "general's chess," a Japanese two-player strategy board game. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shogi