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Kurumi’s Third Region Binah 

In the Neighboring World, the supreme power was the Dominion. 

But the method for selection varies depending on the region. The Second Region Chokmah relies on tradition, where only that meet those requirements can become the Dominion. 

There are regions like the Tenth Region Malkuth where it is based on strength and the title is given to the victor. There are also regions where a predecessor can appoint a successor. As in the Ninth Region Yesod, there was an unusual method where this was decided by popular vote. At any rate, there is a mutual pact of nonaggression where Dominions would never intrude on another Dominion’s territory. 

No one wanted to expand their territory, since it was already exhausted enough ruling their own respective regions. Only in the Tenth Region Malkuth there was a period where they tried expanding territory to fuel the desire to fight. However, since Doll Master became Dominion, the expansion of the region has completely stopped. 

Even with the most troublesome Dominions being satisfied with their lots, there was still a sense of unease. The never-before seen in the change for the Dominion of the Third Region Binah??was beginning to stir up trouble. 

And the means were not through simple violence like the Tenth Region Malkuth. But rather it was some sort of conspiracy spreading around. 

This sort of Dominion was never imagined before in the past, or possibly this issue would have been dismissed as an absurd problem. 

However, the White Queen persisted in carrying out this practice. 

Manipulating the Empty girls and using them as chess pieces??to invade other regions to expand her territory. 

In the Neighboring World, this was already the equivalent to a terrorist attack. 

As a result, various Dominions from each region reluctantly or happily headed for the Sixth Region Tiphereth, the central hub of the Neighboring World. With the exception of the Tenth Region Malkuth, each region could arrive here within a single step, so this region became self-acknowledged as a gathering place of sorts. 

The Second Region Chokmah, the Fourth Region Chesed, the Fifth Region Gevurah, the Sixth Region Tiphereth, the Seventh Region Netzach, the Eighth Region Hod, and the Ninth Region Yesod. 

8 different Dominions from seven different regions were now all gathered here. 

“Yukishiro-san, can you please help with attendance?” 

After being asked by the Dominion of the Sixth Region Miyafuji Oka, the Dominion of the Second Region Chokmah Yukishiro Maya nodded. She was holding a thick book with a leather cover in one hand as she stood up with her trademark glasses giving a characteristic sparkle. 

“Well, I’ll begin the roll call. As expected the First Region Keter is not attending. There was no method of contact so it is impossible to confirm if that person is dead or alive. For the Second Region Chokmah I, Yukishiro Maya, am attending. The Third Region Binah……also not participating. The Fourth Region Chesed……Ariadne Foxlot……attendance.” 

“Are you attending?” 

With her stomach lying on the table, her spiral like hair was fluttering like her hands and feet. 

Her eyelids were closed as her mouth was letting out an analogous ‘guguu’ sound. Oka sighed at the dumbfounded sight. 

“The Fifth Region Gevurah…… Kagarike Haraka.” 

“Here.” 

A ferocious tiger-looking girl responded. If her eyes resembled a tiger than the breath she exuded was like gunpowder. She was wearing a shrine maiden outfit with a large opening at the center of her stomach, but that didn’t conceal her ferocity at all. The dangerous atmosphere made Yukishiro Maya too scared to even breathe. It was a mystery as to how that girl Ariadne could sleep so peacefully. 

“Oh, what happened to that disciple that always stuck by your side?” 

Hearing Oka’s question, Haraka gave a bitter smile. 

“Tsuan huh, it seems that she is a sorry state after being defeated. Wasn’t it in the Ninth Region Yesod?” 

“Yes ? ? it took a lot of effort to rescue her!” 

The Dominion of the Ninth Region Yesod……Kirari Rinemu straightened her chest. Sitting down adjacent to her was Banouin Mizuha. 

“Hey, it wasn’t you who helped, but Banouin’s little sister……or rather, why are there two people participating?” 

“Ah, I requested for this. Since I’ve never been involved in discussions between regions in the past, I’m not terribly clear about this situation……” 

“Hmm.” 

Haraka stared at the two of them with great enthusiasm. Or more precisely, she was unable to take her eyes off Mizuha’s bashful face while clutching onto the hem of Rinemu’s outfit. 

“Not bad. Yup, it’s really pleasing to see such a lovely lass panicking!” 

Haraka shouted while satisfied as Rinemu slanted her head. 

“Hmm? What?” 

“Opps, looks like this chap doesn’t understand anything!” 

“Huh? What ? ? ? Eh ? ? what are you talking about ? ? ?” 

Oka cleared her throat by coughing a little. 

“Hey, I want to continue. The Sixth Region Tiphereth, Miyafuji Oka, of course I am attending.” 

A beautiful girl like Miyafuji Oka was the incarnation of elegance. Wisteria colored hair, a white blouse with a pleated shirt, all of this highlighted her pure and neat temperament. She gracefully picked up the red teacup, sat gracefully, and tasted the tea gracefully just like the young daughter from a respectable family. Despite narrowing her eyes to squint, (perhaps intentionally) she faced the other Dominions without any issues. 

“I’m in your care, everyone.” 

“The Seventh Region Netzach, Sagakure Yuri.” 

A girl in a white dress with a sunflower-like smile waved her hand. Her transparent eyes were as beautiful as pearls……but it also gave the impression of being too beautiful to see anything. 

“Here ? fufufufufu, fufufufufu. Kareha-san, is my little sister alright? Is there anything that needs to be worked on?” 

“Yes, she is good.” 

“Is that so? That’s a relief. She died recently, so I made a new one. Yes, of course this Yui-chan is the best ever made. However, I still need to ask the customer’s feelings to feel at ease.” 

“Ahahaha, the quality is quite good. I’m very dependent on her.” 

Banouin Kareha, dressed in an elegant kimono, hide her mouth behind a fan while making it look like she was smiling. Mizuha pulled on Rinemu’s clothes and whispered into her ear. 

“Um……what did they mean by that conversation just now?” 

“Huh? You don’t know?” 

“I only know that Sagakure Yui-san is Sagakure Yuri-san’s little sister……” 

Rinemu shook her head upon hearing what Mizuha had said. 

“That’s not it. Sagakure Yui made that little sister. Hmm ? ? so I guess kind of like a doll? Well, basically three bodies seems to be the limit, so those three Yui-chan can gradually form a network. Maybe artificial intelligence is better? I’m not quite sure. Anyway, to put it simply that Yuri is a dangerous woman, so it’s not good to get too close!” 

Everyone stared blankly at Rinemu. Yuri’s eyes still look transparently at Rinemu, but a distorted smile now appeared on her mouth. 

“Um……Yuri-san, are you angry? Should I apologize?” 

Mizuha timidly asked. 

“Aren’t you angry?” 

“I’m not angry!” “She’s not angry!” 

Both Yuri and Rinemu replied at the same time. Certainly, this had passed through anger and gone to being pure murderous intent. However, Rinemu still calmly let out an ‘ahaha’ laugh. 

“……Say, didn’t you withdrawal from being Dominion after no longer being able to sing? 

Instead, shouldn’t my little sister be the Dominion?” 

Kareha asked Mizuha with a sad look. 

“Ah, that’s??” 

“I have resurrected! Fuhahaha! You must be surprised, I was surprised too! Would you want me to sing a song? Okay, let’s sing!” 

As Rinemu declared ever so loudly??the other Dominions stared in open exasperation. 

Everyone knew that the reason Rinemu could no longer sing was due to coming into contact with an object emerging during the Compile. 

“……Have you gotten back on your feet?” 

Hearing Oka’s question, Rinemu nodded while replying. 

“Yes, I have surpassed myself in past, present, and future to become Super Rinemu!” 

Rinemu let out an “hmm” sound while making this impossible declaration. 

“Fortunately, her stupidity hasn’t been cured……” 

Haraka gently brushed her chest while muttering. As everyone nodded in agreement, Mizuha tightly held onto Rinemu’s sleeve in order to prevent her from screaming indiscriminately. 

“I see that the Eight Region Hod and the Ninth Region Yesod are also in attendance. 

Confirmation is complete. Miyafuji Oka is in charge. You can begin the region meeting.” 

Doing things at her own pace, Oka circled around the attendance list. 

“Okay then??let’s start the discussion, let’s start the discussion. For a better future, for a better tomorrow in this Neighboring World, let’s fight through our words and not our Unsigned Angels.” 

Under Oka’s declaration, the eight highest powers of the Neighboring World began their discussions about the future of the Neighboring World??or that is to say the region conference had begun. 

 

“As you know, forty-eight hours ago, the White Queen appeared in the Ninth Region Yesod. 

Immediately afterwards, she engaged in a battle against the self-proclaimed Spirit??Tokisaki Kurumi. Tokisaki Kurumi was defeated and the White Queen and her subordinate disappeared through some means using the gate.” 

“My subordinate and also Yuri-san’s little sister, Yui-san, was shooting a video at the scene. Do you wish to watch it?” 

“I want to, I want to, I want to!” 

Rinemu immediately responded. Haraka also nodded while leaning her body forward. 

“A battle between a Spirit and a Dominion, of course this needs to be watched.” 

“I’m also interested. How much different are the Spirits from us Dominions? Really strong? Or perhaps??only an underserved reputation?” 

“If that’s the case, then it would be real disappointing ? ” 

“No, it’s not just in name only.” 

After Rinemu said that, everyone turned to look at her. 

“Rinemu-san, aren’t we unable to infer the power of a Spirit with your strength?” 

“I am very weak but I can at least determine if someone is strong. I have also met with you all several times and seen your abilities; there’s even that that herculean monster girl over there with enough strength to smash apart a building with her bare hands. But with Kurumi’s power, I couldn’t understand it even after seeing it. So, I find it inexplicable that she would kick the bucket fighting someone else!” 

“Mizuha, what’s wrong? Tell me what you think.” 

Kareha gave Mizuha a chilly look that didn’t seem appropriate for her staring at her own little sister. 

“……Um……I……I……also think so. Tokisaki Kurumi’s……power……was abnormal.” 

In any case, Mizuha’s words were accepted with credibility. 

“??Well, let’s play the video to confirm whether or not they are telling the truth. We’ll start from the initial skirmish.” 

The video played from Sagakure Yui’s perspective of Tokisaki Kurumi battle against the White Queen’s executive Rook, who was holding the Unsigned Angel <Vermillion>. 

“Ah, wait I’m caught on the film! Yup, I’m shining even in a supporting role! Nice!” 

“J-Just like you say, Rinemu-san is shining so much……” 

“Kirari Rinemu, you’re being too noisy. Also, Mizuha-san, don’t praise her.” 

“Excuse me……” 

The moment Rook had escaped, the image became temporarily cut. The image then subsequently transitioned to the edge of the Ninth Region Yesod: the Cradle of Dreams. 

“……What about the battle here? Wasn’t it captured on film?” 

“There wasn’t enough time to catch up. It seems that she was trailing behind Tsuan and the others.” 

“That’s regrettable.” 

“However, the real wonderful battle isn’t missing. Take a look??” 

At last she appeared of the film??the White Queen. 

“So she is……the White Queen……” 

Even for the Dominions, several of them who have never seen her before whispered her name in a low voice. 

“??Those two look quite ferocious.” 

Everyone agreed to what Maya had whispered. Both the non-combative Dominions and Dominions who spent their lifetimes in battle could understand the formidable power displayed by Tokisaki Kurumi and the White Queen. 

An old fashioned pistol that could overturn cause and effect each time a bullet was fired. 

A saber that could overthrow logic each time it was swung. 

Speed, destructive power, judgement, each was comparable to that of the Dominions??or it was easy to imagine that their specs surpassed them. However, Haraka was able to see through that the full extent of their skills weren’t on full display in these circumstances. 

“……This is really bothersome……” 

“Kagarike Haraka, could you defeat those two?” 

Haraka shrugged her shoulders upon hearing Oka’s question. 

“I won’t know until I start fighting??that’s what I want to say.” 

“Ara, isn’t that the same as admitting defeat?” 

Haraka smiled bitterly at Oka’s sharp query. 

“Tsuan is strong. Among my disciples, she is undoubtedly number one. But even when that person laid down her life, she couldn’t defeat Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

Tsuan was resilient and tough enough to turn the tide and destroy any proper strategy with her destructive power. However, if she came under fire by these bullets that could reverse causality, she would be forced to succumb after being attacked by these extraordinarily unexpected tricks. 

Those two were not simply powerful and capable. 

Somehow, those two were like an absurd existence in control of the laws of this world. That was something that even a Dominion couldn’t do. 

“I……may lose.” 

Oka sighed, moving her fingertips as her black tea was refilled. 

“……But, it’s a little troubling to concede defeat. Each of us should be hiding two or three trump cards??did you take that into account?” 

“No, I mean I can’t beat them in a direct confrontation. Also, my trump card isn’t much, it’s just one trick.” 

“I think so too!” 

Breaking through bloodthirsty atmosphere, of course it was Kirari Rinemu. 

“Mizuha, are you okay? Can you still stand? But feel at ease! Those two are just black-hearted! 

Things have progressed to this point and I still have not presented my trump card! The Neighboring World is in a crisis! So, I think we should consider the option of rescuing Kurumi and letting her join our side!” 

Mizuha’s stomach was attacked by so much stress that it nearly left her in a spasm. At the same time, she thought that it was absolutely impossible for herself to be the Dominion. Anyhow, this stress was near a lethal level. 

“Rescuing Tokisaki Kurumi? I’m against that. It’s impossible.” 

Oka asserted her declaration. 

“Ehh! But Kurumi is a Spirit, a Spirit. Unlike us who are ‘Quasi’, she’s an amazingly strong girl!” 

“……That’s why I am against this.” 

Hearing Maya say that, Rinemu slanted her head as if asking “what do you mean?” 

“Since we’ve fallen or visited this Neighboring World, it has already grown to the point of a generation gap. The period in which Spirits existed has long since faded into legend…… I have only heard that the Spirits used to be invincible.” 

A Spirit is a calamity, a God. 

Only such legends were passed down to the Quasi-Spirits living in the present time. And as of this moment, there was a Spirit that suddenly emerged??together alongside a Dominion who mirrored her appearance. 

“We can’t or shouldn’t be willing to pull in a God or calamity into our side. I think everyone here shares that consensus.” 

“Really? Besides me, there should be someone else that wants her to join our side!” 

As Rinemu struck the nail on the head and forced the truth to come up, the poker faces of some of the people here began to crumble. 

“……Miyafuji Oka of the Sixth Region Tiphereth is against this.” 

“Our Second Region Chokmah is opposed as well.” 

“Hmm, well……in this scenario the Fifth Region Gevurah doesn’t agree.” 

Rinemu looked to the other Dominions in dissatisfaction, but they all remained silent. Not wanting to expose weakness, they chose not to refute the three opinions that had already been spoken. 

Oka then raised her hand as if making a declaration. 

“Then, with regards to Tokisaki Kurumi, she’ll be considered one of the hostile forces. Next, to discuss the White Queen that defeated her??” 

“Hey, what do you want to talk about me?” 

Miyafuji Oka’s hand stopped midway in the air. Kagarike Haraka and Sagakure Yuri immediately stood up on hearing the sound of breathing and prepared for war. Yukishiro Maya’s mouth froze while half-open and Ariadne Foxlot wrenched opened her sleepy eyes. Banouin Kareha reflexively retreated to the rear. Banouin Mizuha, Kirari Rinemu, as well as Yukishiro Maya, stared blankly at ‘her’ who came through the ceiling. 

“Wouldn’t it be better to see a live example before your eyes rather than a motion picture? Or have you Quasi-Spirits wasted your lives in the Neighboring World playing house?” 

A white girl. 

Jacket, hair, hat, skirt, everything was a beautiful white. 

One eyeball was an astronomical clock. A saber and pistol in both hands just like a precise machine. While her appearance wasn’t fierce, her smile was chilling. 

The girl called the White Queen appeared and stood proudly on top of the table. 

“Almost all of the people here I am meeting for the first time. As for Kagarike Haraka, can I say long time no see?” 

“……Have I ever met you before?” 

“Even if it was once, I did kill all of your comrades.” 

“……!” 

Haraka spewed out murderous intent??but then immediately suppressed it. 

“Hey.” 

“What rubbish, it was just the natural choice. After all, they were all going around trying to kill each other in the Tenth Region Malkuth.” 

‘Haha, that’s certainly right. What an outrageous lie I have just said. Knowing your past, I wanted to tease you a little.” 

It was spoken to tease her, but it was also filled with malice??or so Rinemu thought so. 

If she knew about Haraka’s past, she should be familiar with the fact that the Quasi-Spirits who were once Haraka’s friends all killed each other trying to compete for the title of Dominion of the Tenth Region Malkuth. 

“……Can the White Queen peep into other people’s past? What horrible taste.” 

Haraka frowned as she regained her composure. The murderous intent that had just overflowed had already subsided. 

“Quasi, or should you be called a subspecies? You are all a nuisance. Since your self-consciousness is only at this level, you all could only create these dumbstruck societies.” 

Faced with the White Queen’s provocation, the Dominions all glared at her. Everyone had stood up and was prepared to call out their Unsigned Angels. Even Mizuha and Rinemu no longer looked frightened as they looked to the other Dominions prepared to fight off the White Queen. 

“So, you’re the Dominion of Tokisaki Kurumi’s Third Region Binah.” 

The White Queen turned to Oka and pointed her pistol at her. 

“How disrespectful, don’t address me using that girl’s name.” 

“Then Queen, or should we call you the Queen of monkeys?” 

“How interesting, you must love to run your mouth off.” 

“Yes, I am always praised for that. Then Queen-sama, why have you come to this place uninvited?” 

“Does that even need to be asked? I am not fond of plotting behind one’s back, so I would like to get straight to the point and declare war on you all.” 

“I understand. So you no longer feel the need to spin the plot behind the scenes and want to hurry up and make a grand declaration of war?” 

“You think you can kill me? That’s utterly amusing.” 

“You think I can’t kill you? That’s quite the comical joke.” 

Both smiled fearlessly to each other. 

Killing intent spread out through the room. It was as dangerous as waving a torch in front of a room full of gunpowder. But just then?? 

“Hey, can I have a moment to speak, Queen-san ? ? !” 

“……Aah, what is it? Who are you?” 

The White Queen seemed to abruptly lose her motivation after noticing the one calling out to her was Kirari Rinemu. 

“Kirari Rinemu! You best at least remember my name!” 

The White Queen sneered. 

“Is it necessary to remember who the Dominion of the Ninth Region Yesod is?” 

“……I don’t care about that! What happened to Kurumi? Kurumi!” 

“Ah, the woman defeated by me. She still has something to do and an obligation to fulfill. So don’t worry, she is still alive.” 

“So it’s like that ? ? that’s a relief!” 

Rinemu let out a sigh, easily believing what she heard and then sat down as if her question had just been answered. Everyone, including the White Queen, was speechless by her fearless attitude. 

“Um……you believe what she said?” 

Trembling with fear, Maya asked. 

“? Believe. It would be more terrifying saying that she had been killed. But she blurted that no one has been killed and there was a kernel of truth in that careless statement. Ah, no. If it was a lie, wouldn’t I be able to see through it?” 

“…..Can you tell if others are lying?” 

For the first time, the White Queen’s interest turned to Rinemu. 

“I’m considered an expert in that ? ? ” 

“Hey, weren’t you deceived by Momozono-san?” 

Hearing Mizuha ask that, Rinemu stretched out her chest while replying. 

“She was obviously trying to deceive me, but what she said did contain some truth. So I took my chances and allowed myself to be deceived by her!” 

“Oh, so it turned out to be like this. Then, can you verify if my next words will ring true?” 

Everyone one of them felt a chill travel through their spines. 

So the White Queen solemnly whispered her declaration. Even without Rinemu, it could be clearly understood……that this was her undoubtedly speaking the truth. 

“I intend to kill all of you. For my peace, I will kill each and every one of you. I will never permit any escape, nor allow any surrender. Thoroughly, please offer your lives to me.” 

A crack streaked across the space. 

Haraka instantaneously pulled out a katana and rushed forward. Oka threw away her cup of black tea without hesitation. Ariadne muttered something to interfere with the room. Yuri snapped her fingers. Maya softly opened a book as Banouin Kareha silently took a step back. Both Kirari Rinemu and Mizuha were crouching down to avoid obstructing the others from fighting. 

Regardless of the attack, the Dominions responded as quickly as possible. 

However, the White Queen activated her ability at a speed faster than the initial movements of these famous Quasi-Spirits. 

“<Lucifugus> ??????Virgo Sword <Betulah>.” 

Nullifying and making all of their attacks lose effectiveness; her body became a hazy phantom, laughing as she turned into dust. 

“Is this……an illusion……!?” 

“No, this is different. If it is an illusion, I should be able to detect it! I can at least distinguish that much!” 

Maya also nodded in agreement to what Haraka had said. 

“……The moment she appeared, the overall weight of the room was increased by her own weight. But now it has completely disappeared.” 

“What is going on? She suddenly appeared here and now disappears. Is she still in this room?” 

As Yuri asked, everyone looked towards each other. 

“No, she’s gone. The entire weight of the room has been restored. ……She appeared in an instant and is gone the next. The reason for how she is able to turn into an illusion is unknown, but as for how she appeared……” 

Maya lightly jumped onto the table, looking up at the crystal chandelier above as she opened her book. 

“Open Sesame.” 

Soon, it appeared; a strange translucent door that was projected by the chandelier. Like a digital image, its sense of presence was uncertain. Everyone immediately understood one thing. 

She had come through this door??and returned back through the same way. 

“What is this? Oka-san?” 

“I-I don’t know……Maya, do you understand what this is?” 

“I don’t know either. But……Haraka.” 

“Got it.” 

She pulled out her katana and sliced it apart immediately. At the same time the crystal chandelier was cut apart, the door distorted and disappeared. 

“Good, this problem has been taken care of for the time being.” 

“……When could have this door be installed……” 

Hearing Oka mutter, Maya casted a sharp gaze onto her. 

“Have the Empties done manual cleaning here?” 

“Yes. Cleaning and sweeping rather than using reiryoku??” 

Suddenly, Oka’s face turned pale, her mouth opening as if unable to believe this. 

“The Empties installed this door……?” 

“There is a high possibility. We have treated the Empties as not worth recognizing as Quasi-Spirits and called for them to do arbitrarily chores……but now we must rethink that idea. 

They have infiltrated our daily lives and serve as an army for the White Queen.” 

And perhaps??Maya whispered in a voice too low for anyone to hear. 

Besides the Empties, she may have another accomplice. 

 

“White Queen……” 

Kurumi muttered out that name while stunned. 

“Yes, she is a monster using that name and wearing an Astral Dress that is the reverse of ours. 

She is the Dominion of the Third Region Binah.” 

“Rather than claiming our name, wouldn’t it better to just say someone other than us? ……No, there is one more important point before discussing this.” 

Kurumi stared at the other Kurumi. 

“Who are you? Why do you have the same face and voice as me and why are your clothes in tatters!?” 

As the other Kurumi heard Kurumi’s words, her attentive gaze froze. Because what happened was too surprising, she was fixed in place. 

For Kurumi, this girl was more frightening than the White Queen. She could be convinced that the White Queen was a fake. However, she couldn’t explain the appearance of the girl in front of her eyes. 

The other Kurumi stared at Kurumi for a moment before finally letting out a faint sigh. 

“I am……Tokisaki Kurumi’s clone.” 

“Clone……” 

“<Zafkiel>’s ability, the Eight Bullet <Het>. Extracting the past of me , and using it to construct a clone…...did me forget? In the distant world, we and me have used this ability to defeat countless enemies.” 

Hearing those words, Kurumi’s brain creaked. 

Clones, they were the versions of herself that gathered within Tokisaki Kurumi’s shadow to serve as the strongest soldiers. Because they were extracted from a split second of her past history, they could theoretically increase their numbers indefinitely if she had enough time stored up. Fully in line with the title Nightmare, it was an evil and arrogant ability. 

Why did she forget such a useful ability? 

Her head severely ached. Don’t remember, there are things that must be forgotten because they are important. 

“……My memories are missing. Perhaps there was an accident when I fell into the Neighboring World……” 

“Do you remember anything?” 

“??No, I only remember one important thing.” 

Aren’t you going to say it? The girl gave a doubtful look to Kurumi who was hesitating. 

“I am……looking for that person. I am infatuated with him…...” 

Kurumi’s cheeks were instantly dyed with a red blush. Even in this predicament, it was enough to forget everything else. The other Kurumi gave a faint smile. 

“Then, it’s even more necessary to escape from here.” 

“Of course……but anyway first of all explain the ins and outs of this situation……no, tell me everything that you know. I believe that will be at least necessary for us.” 

The other Kurumi nodded in response. 

“Listen well me. The White Queen is a monster that seriously intends to destroy the Neighboring World. And also……this is my speculation……” 

The girl took a deep breath as she informed her of the hopeless truth. 

“She is Tokisaki Kurumi’s inverse, a being that is absolutely incompatible with us.” 

Inversion. Kurumi vaguely remembered this phenomenon, but the concept remained too fuzzy and unclear. 

“I’m not quite sure either. However it is a literal reversal??an entity whose attributes, character, disposition, nature, and ability are all the polar opposite of life. She is a broken existence that will bring about ultimate destruction.” 

“Destruction……she certainly didn’t seem right in the head. Somehow, rather than talking, it did feel like a one-sided conversation.” 

“The White Queen is still a moderate. I have heard that the concept of inversion automatically dissipates destructive impulses. Rather, it would be strange to still be able to scheme a conspiracy.” 

“Scheme……well, how does she plan on destroying the Neighboring World?” 

“Well that……I don’t know in detail. However, when she took away my power, she whispered 

‘it’s still not enough to destroy the Neighboring World’.” 

“Took away……power……?” 

“That’s right. Honestly, my current combat power is at zero. She deprived me of my weapon, tortured me, snatched away my time and reiryoku, and left my Astral Dress in the current state you are seeing now.” 

The appearance of the other Kurumi was indeed quite miserable. She kept her appearance covered up but Kurumi understood well that there must be countless scars inflicted on her body. 

If compared to a human, this was like having every organ besides the heart being extracted. 

“……I was also robbed of my <Zafkiel>.” 

“<Zafkiel> was……” 

Angels and Spirits were intricately linked. Besides the example of taking away Tokisaki Kurumi’s entire existence like with Higoromo Hibiki’s <King Killing>, it should be impossible to only steal <Zafkiel>. 

However, it appeared that the inverted White Queen was the sole exception to that. 

“Surviving doesn’t have any meaning. Having my power stolen already means a dead end. But dying would mean being treated as excess fat.” 

“……Will I also be the same sooner or later?” 

“Since the White Queen said there wasn’t enough power…… I was sure you’d joined me here at least within today.” 

Kurumi sighed. 

The situation was far more serious than first imagined and there was also little time left. 

“Escape is a must, but there’s also a problem after that. I want to go to the First Region Keter??” 

“That is impossible.” 

The girl immediately interrupted Kurumi’s words. 

“I-Impossible, what do you mean by that!?” 

“……I mentioned earlier that the White Queen is intending to destroy the Neighboring World, correct? She seems to be making full use of time and reiryoku to manufacture a gate to the First Region Keter. Even the White Queen hasn’t arrived there yet.” 

“……Manufacturing……a……gate……?” 

Kurumi slanted her head in confusion upon hearing those words. 

“From the Tenth Region Malkuth to the Ninth Region Yesod, the gate is simply closed. But there is no such thing as a passage through the <Shamayim Kaveesh> to the First Region Keter in the first place, so no one has ever been there before.” 

“No one……? Doesn’t the First Region Keter lead to reality……to the other world……!?” 

Kurumi raised her voice to a nervous shrill. Consequently, the purpose of her journey was beginning to collapse. 

“Yes, it is rumored that the First Region Keter can lead to the other world. However, since no one has reached that region, the possibility is only a rumor. Moreover, in the Second Region Chokmah and all subsequent regions, there haven’t been any Quasi-Spirits that have returned back to the other world.” 

“……Even if I head to the First Region Keter……I still can’t return back there……?” 

The girl turned her head to the side. 

“I don’t know about that…… me wants to head there that much? ??To go back to the other world.” 

“Yes, in order to see that person, I won’t hesitate to pay any cost.” 

A far off distant memory 

Trembling and praying constantly, she believed in the day where they could once again meet. 

Even if it was just a rumor, she still wanted to verify its authenticity. If the rumor was false, she would go searching for another method. 

“In order to reach the First Region Keter, it doesn’t matter if you’ll have to destroy the Neighboring World?” 

“That’s??” 

Confronted by that question from the other Kurumi, Kurumi was unable to answer and looked away. That girl whispered softly as if catching sight of a warm image. 

“Sorry, that question was a bit in poor taste……yes, that’s right. Me …..no, you must meet that person……” 

“You know about him?” 

“Of course. Because I am me.” 

“Then, about that person??” 

The other Kurumi raised her hand as if anticipating what Kurumi was going to say. 

“Let’s save that for later. Focus now on how to break this status quo.” 

“Ugh, what you’re saying isn’t wrong……” 

“After escaping from here, I’ll tell you what I know.” 

“Are you serious!?” 

Kurumi enthusiastically rushed forward, but of course her body was pulled back by the chain. 

“I give you my word. So first we need to find a way to escape……after all only you can compete with the White Queen.” 

“How would a Dominion rank Quasi-Spirit do against her?” 

“……With multiple people, it may be possible to resist……do you know? By the White Queen’s side, there are always three executives at close proximity.” 

Listening to those words, she recalled that girl. 

They were struggling to kill each other in the Ninth Region Yesod, the Empty girl holding the huge sickle. 

“One of them is called Rook……” 

“Yes, the others are Bishop and Knight. Apparently including herself, she models her faction after a chess game.” 

So that turned out to be the reason. In chess, Rook was the piece representing a tank, Bishop symbolized a priest, and Knight was a templar. 

“So Pawn is??” 

“The pawns are the Empty ones. The White Queen seems to have the power to control them.” 

“Is that power also effective against a former Empty?” 

“I don’t know about that.” 

“……I see.” 

Kurumi gritted her teeth as she complained to herself. The single former Empty that she left behind in the Cradle??Higoromo Hibiki. Was she taken in by the White Queen? 

No, in that situation she wouldn’t have had time to deal with her. Rook was being suppressed by Tsuan and the other two executives weren’t present. 

Although they had captured the defeated Kurumi, she wasn’t too negligent during those circumstances. 

They shouldn’t have time to capture Hibiki?? 

“Excuse me.” 

Kurumi’s back shuddered from hearing that familiar voice. The heavy iron-gate opened as girl came in wearing a simple blue dress and white apron. She must have the position of being a maid. 

The problem was that face and voice being all too familiar. 

“It’s time to eat.” 

“Ara, ara. It’s rare for me to eat. Are the existence of the two of us that important?” 

Kurumi didn’t hear what she said as her eyes were completely fixed onto the girl pushing the dining car. 

Her soft smiling face was as stiff as steal. Her straightened back and eyes were full of nothingness??just like a newborn doll. 

“Hibiki-san……” 

“……It’s time to eat.” 

Kurumi’s attention was concentrated on the hollow face of the girl that had once been Hibiki. 

“Hibiki-san!” 

No response to her call. She tilted her head and stared at Kurumi with her empty eyes. 

This girl wasn’t her. 

A body that had lost its soul, a hollow personality??Kurumi never imagined that it would feel so chilly and nauseous. 

“This……” 

As Kurumi was left speechless, the heavy iron door slammed shut. 

“……Buha! I was so nervous! Kurumi-san, are you okay?” 

In a flash, Hibiki’s eyes were filled with a radiant brilliance. 

“Huh?” 

In the blink of an eye, the girl that had resembled a doll was now acting like an adorable tiny animal. 


“Hibiki……san?” 

Kurumi let out a stunned voice. Exceedingly rare to happen, but Hibiki ignored this as she continued to speak. 

“Yes, it’s Higoromo Hibiki! Playing this role was seriously difficult! Hey, Kurumi-san, why are your clothes in tatters? You’re in tatters (said twice)! Also Tsuan-san. Tsuan-san managed to escape, but you were caught and taken away! The two of them didn’t even look at me and left! 

The wrap zone they used to get there? They left it open! I jumped in determined to save your life and arrived at this castle! But I had no idea where to find you, so I saw a group of people that looked like me working as maids. I knocked down one of them, put on this Astral Dress, and finally, finally found Kurumi-san! Fortunately, we are still alive! Right, Kurumi-san?” 

Kurumi couldn’t say a word as she tightly hugged. Or rather than being hugged, it would be better to say that the other person was struggling to breathe. 

“It hurts! Kurumi-san, you’re hugging me too tight. Sorry, sorry, I was wrong!” 

Ignoring Hibiki struggling to flail her limbs, Kurumi whispered out a sigh of relief. 

“??Don’t let others be this worried again, okay?” 

This soft voice was so sweet and brimming with emotion that it was easy to forget the pain of being crushed. 

“……Sorry, Kurumi-san. But I am not apologizing for coming here to rescue you.” 

Hibiki softly spoke while returning the hug. As she thought, Kurumi was riddled with scars. Not because she received superficial wounds while fighting, but rather the damage had come from being defeated and driven into a corner. 

“Let’s run away, Kurumi-san. Don’t worry, it’s the same as that time as being an idol. Let’s combine our strengths together.” 

With her head crashing into Hibiki’s embrace, Kurumi gave a small nod. 

“Ara, ara, ara, what a moving friendship, me .” 

As Kurumi heard that teasing voice, she quickly broke free from the hug. Looking back, the other Kurumi gave a complacent smile, looking at the two with the sparkling eyes as if anticipating that something would happen. 

“Ah, could you be the Kurumi that was caught earlier?” 

Listening to Hibiki’s words, Kurumi widened her eyes. 

“You know about her?” 

“Yeah. Even though Empties basically just stare blankly, their heads are still working fine so they’ll occasionally gossip. There was quite a fuss about a second Kurumi being captured. No, but you really look identical to Kurumi-san. How surprising.” 

“So, me . Who is she?” 

As that girl asked, Kurumi smiled as she informed her. 

“She is Higoromo Hibiki, a silk thread that will lead us to escaping.” 

“Fufufu, leave it to me, Kurumi-san! ……Um, both of you are technically Kurumi-san. From now on, what should I call you?” 

“I am Kurumi, please call her Kurumi ? .” 

“??Wait a minute. In terms of order, I believe I have priority. Shouldn’t me be called Kurumi ? ?” 

The Kurumi called Kurumi II stood up indignantly. 

“Undoubtedly, you are the one who broke into my world. So as far as my cognition is concerned, rest assured you should be called Kurumi II.” 

“As you say, the one who broke into my world is??” 

“This is getting too confusing!” 

Hibiki quickly interrupted the two. 

“Anyway, let’s focus on escaping here first. Our first priority should be getting out of here.” 

Kurumi and Kurumi II both looked at each other and sighed. 

“ Me , it can’t be helped. I just have to address you as Kurumi II in my mind.” 

“……The personality of me is really horrible.” 

As Kurumi II narrowed her eyes as she spoke, Kurumi grinned and turned to look at Hibiki. 

“Oh, it seems that I have been infected by something bad.” 

“Does that bad thing refer to me? Kurumi-san ? ? !” 

Hibiki stretching out her hands made Kurumi feel at ease. The daily scenario that she had grown accustomed towards. It felt unexpectedly dazzling. 

 

“……Anyway, first these chains must be unlocked. Hibiki, do you have a way to free us from these chains?” 

The chains let out a metallic clicking sound as Kurumi moved her wrist. The shackles were too thick and hard that it would be impossible to be free unless she cut off her wrist. 

“I have my Unsigned Angel, but the usage is different, it’s not strong enough to crush the chains.” 

Higoromo Hibiki’s Unsigned Angel was weapon that could smash apart common sense to pillage the target’s face, abilities, and disposition. However, on the contrary, it could only be used to plunder. Although its appearance resembled a claw-like shape, it didn’t look as if it could be used for melee. In fact, it may not even be able to break through a concrete wall. 

“Hibiki-san, can you make a quick run and take back <Zafkiel> for me?” 

“You’re forcing something onto me that’s impossible! How can I get it back? I don’t even know where it is, nor do I have the confidence to be able to make it back here with it in hand!” 

Hibiki’s complaints were reasonable. However, without the destructive power of <Zafkiel>, these chains couldn’t be removed. 

“With this disguise I can enter the prison, but something important like <Zafkiel> must be strictly guarded by someone……” 

“Makes sense……” 

Hibiki’s fighting ability was slightly below average. Of course, she couldn’t defeat the White Queen and her three executives. If it was an Empty, she could probably put up a fight. ……But that is only considering if it was one on one. Perhaps, she could land a draw if it was one against two. If it was one against three, defeat would be certain. Hibiki finished analyzing her own strength. 

“……Do you know where the White Queen is?” 

Hibiki grinned upon hearing Kurumi II’s question. 

“It’s okay. The White Queen seems to have headed for another region. The Empties had said that and how to describe it……given this relaxed atmosphere it doesn’t seem to be wrong.” 

After secretly invading the castle, her skin felt tense and her breathing tight as the Empty didn’t dare to speak anything louder than a whisper. However, after a certain amount of time had passed, this feeling disappeared as the voices of the Empties grew a little bit louder. 

And when asked, as expected the White Queen had gone out for another journey soon after coming back. Of course, they were not afraid of the White Queen. However, because of their excessive devotion, they were afraid of any blunders they could possibly make in her presence. 

……The result ended up being like girls who were not too different from idols. However, this side to these Empty girls was strangely lovable at the same time. 

“There’s the feeling of having become a completely different creature than me already.” 

“Hibiki-san. One more question. About your Unsigned Angel <King Killing> that you mentioned earlier……” 

“Yes?” 

Hibiki slanted her head. After hearing Kurumi II’s question, her face began to stiffen. 

“……I think……that should……be possible……” 

“……Really? Then I have a plan.” 

“Well, I can really think up something brutal.” 

Kurumi cheerfully laughed to her heart’s content. 

“You’re telling me! How many devious ideas can you come up with!?” 

“But isn’t this the only way?” 

“Yes!” 

Hibiki let out an exasperated sigh. Kurumi stopped smiling as her face showed an uneasy look. 

“……Honestly, I don’t wish for Hibiki-san to step in to deep into that core portion.” 

Certainly, Hibiki knew that this would be dangerous. 

If possible, Hibiki thought it would be best for them to fight with herself trailing from behind. 

However, Kurumi was unable to move or fight because of those chains. Moreover, as long as she is in the state of having <Zafkiel> be deprived, the only weapon she could use would be her physical strength. 

“Kurumi-san, how can you still say something like that now that things have escalated this far!” 

Hibiki clenched her fist. Kurumi felt a little overwhelmed as she cautiously bumped fists with her. 

“So please extract it from my memories. After all, I recognize that woman now more than my own parent’s faces, so I think it should be fine Hibiki-san.” 

“When using Kurumi-san’s face, call me Higoromo-san! It feels a little smug. Ah, but please continue calling me like that!” 

“Yes, yes, are you ready?” 

Turning to face Kurumi II, forehead to forehead, she adjusted her breathing. 

“I need to force myself to drag that memory out. It’ll be difficult since it was basically just torture.” 

“I’ll need to imitate that memory. ……Sorry, it’ll be painful, but please remember the past thoroughly. After all, everyone in the Third Region Binah seems to be her deluded fan.” 

She took a deep breath. 

Her eyes caught the image of a White Queen with an oppressive smile. 

Her personality, voice, and gesture, imitate and usurp it all. 

“How is it?” 

“……It’s perfect.” 

Kurumi II breathed out a sigh in admiration. 

 

And so, Hibiki exited the prison. She walked slowly, gulping to suppress the rising tension in her throat. The Empty passed by were staring at her with reverence and awe. When thinking how long it has passed since leaving, it was no surprise they would have this response to her coming back so soon. Her footsteps felt awkward and her walking pace unnatural. However, in this circumstance, not even having cold sweat was allowed as she must move forward heroically as possible. 

Although the Empty girls were watching the White Queen, none of them came forward to chat as they maintained an attitude of fear and trepidation. 

Fortunately, she hadn’t been unmasked as a result of this. 

When Kurumi II was tortured and her ability taken, she was dragged out of the prison several times. 

“I used those moments to understand the layout of this region to some extent. Somewhere in this region, there is a so-called armory, which houses a collection of Unsigned Angels. I don’t know where the location is……so you’ll need to think of a method to look for it.” 

Hibiki took a deep breath as she recalled Kurumi II’s words. 

(Starting from the prison on the basement floor, open the door on the right and take 507 steps. 

From there, you need to turn left and go straight for another 351 steps. Go upstairs and take about another 1000 steps to the left and you should arrive at the entrance I was taken to. You’ll have to arrive there first.) 

Hibiki kept walking through the huge castle. Inadvertently looking to the side, her face was seen reflected by the window. Her face wasn’t the appearance of the red and black Kurumi, but it was that of the White Queen. 

(……Inversion. Even I didn’t know there was such a phenomenon.) Hibiki’s life experience as a Quasi-Spirit was quite rich, but she had never seen a Quasi-Spirit undergo that process. Could only Spirits inverse or would the despair from an inversion already turned the Quasi-Spirit into an Empty long beforehand? 

(Forget about this, it doesn’t matter right now) 

“……” 

Noticing their gazes, she quickly adjusted her facial expression before she could get exposed. 

Three Empty girls were looking at her at the same time. Their expressions were marked by dazzling aspirations. ……Originally, this should be impossible. An Empty is a Quasi-Spirit yearning for death and abandoning all other hopes. So, they were in a pure white color, with all other colors fading away as even their memories were gone. 

Such an existence shining with the brilliance of hope was strange in of itself. 

But??anyway, she couldn’t make herself suspicious. Luckily, all the words that girl had uttered and what Kurumi remembered during the torture had been smashed into her head. 

“Good morning, ladies.” 

According to her information, the White Queen’s tone of voice was very inconsistent. Sometimes she was polite, at other times it would change into a regal tone, even changing so quickly that she would refer to herself in first person. 

So, this approach should be correct?? 

“Yes, good morning, my Queen.” 

……It appears she wasn’t mistaken. While watching those three deeply bow, Hibiki gently caressed her chest in relief. 

“Um. The new Rook-sama is looking for you……” 

Hibiki’s back felt the chills upon hearing those words. Rook……one of the three executives and the Quasi-Spirit that played the role of a tank. Unlike these Empty girls, she has had many direct conversations with the White Queen. Currently, she was the one person that she didn’t want to meet the most. 

“Rook?” 

“Yes, I can call for her now if good.” 

The Empty’s eyes were sparkling even more from the joy of serving the White Queen. Even though Hibiki felt sorry, she still rejected the proposal. 

“No, I don’t want to see her now.” 

“Is that so……” 

The Empties quietly retreated. It seemed no one had found anything suspicious about this conversation. This time she had to be resourceful?? 

“Oh, my Queen, why are you here?” 

“??!” 

Hibiki turned around. 

It was almost a miracle that her face did distort from the shock. Having fought against Tokisaki Kurumi and Tsuan and pushed those two into a desperate corner, in the end this long-haired girl finally fell in an attack where she herself served as bait. Then, through the hands of the White Queen, she was replaced by the second Rook that was born. 

Unsigned Angel <Vermillion>. ??She was staring at the White Queen with that huge red scythe in her shoulders. 

“I remember that you said that you were heading out?” 

She asked while innocently slanting her head. In the depths of her mind, knowing that she would be killed the moment she relaxed, she expressed a fearless smile. 

“You don’t need to worry about that. Compared to that, go fetch that girl’s <Zafkiel> to me.” 

“<Zafkiel>? That should have been sealed in the treasure house according to your order.” 

“……There are some parts that need to be clarified. Can you bring it to me?” 

As Rook heard that command, she gave a somewhat worried look. 

“I’m sorry. Having just been reset, I am not too familiar with this region. And doesn’t only the Queen know the location of the treasure room?” 

“……Right.” 

As Hibiki nodded, she was screaming in her head. Is she suspicious? Is she thinking of me as an enemy and planning to kill me? Just run away……no that would be useless. She would just be caught. Moreover, something interesting was just said. What did she mean by ‘just reset’?? 

“Um!” 

One of the three Empties from before that was trying to join the topic came forward. 

“I remember that place since I was there at that time! I-If you wish! My Queen……!” 

“Is that right? Then, let’s go together (just so you can show me the way!)” 

Hibiki nodded with sweat pouring from her back. 

Having received a response from the Queen, that girl was especially delighted. She dash for the corridor while gasping for air. 

“……Jealous……” 

The other two Empties glared at the girl with her back turned. Their eyes were nearing a killing intent that was no longer a lovable degree of envy. Making a mistake now would likely mean being killed. 

“My Queen. Since I already have a mission.” 

“Yes, please. I’ll leave everything to you.” 

Rook calmly lowered her head. Meanwhile Hibiki followed the back of the girl leading while hoping to find a way to survive this. 

 

“……It’s frustrating just waiting……” 

Kurumi continually tapped against the walls with her shoes. The other Kurumi stared at her while looking flabbergasted. 

“Are you worried that much?” 

There was a brief moment of silence. 

“……Yes, I am very worried. Kurumi II-san.” 

“Please stop calling me that.” 

As the other Kurumi frowned, Kurumi turned the other way while pouting. 

“Isn’t it inconvenient to call both you and me Tokisaki Kurumi?” 

“……Generally speaking, it is inconvenient.” 

Kurumi II shrugged her shoulders. 

Yes, it was exactly as she said. It was simply too troublesome to call two people with the same name. It would be a different matter if it was over a thousand people though. 

“Did you say something just now?” 

“No, no, I didn’t say a word......also. If we can get out of here, come up with a name for me. Give me a unique name that will be just for me.” 

 

……Somehow, it had gone off without a hitch. Even when confronted by Rook, she wasn’t suddenly cut down or captured by an encircling net. 

“Can I ask you a question?” 

Choosing her words carefully, Hibiki asked the Empty in front of her. 

“Yes, what is it!” 

That girl innocently turned around to look back. 

“……Are you happy right now?” 

“Of course, it is a supreme joy to be able to assist the Queen!” 

“That’s good……” 

Any attempts to win her over meant nothing if it meant her true identity getting exposed??or so Hibiki thought. 

“Just as the Queen said, we must be given a purpose for living. From that moment on, my entire existence has belonged to the Queen.” 

“If I say to die, you’ll die?” 

“Of course!” 

From those carefree words, Hibiki remembered her own determination. 

To be honest, if it meant being useful to Tokisaki Kurumi, she thought it was okay to die. It was because there was tremendous and heavy favor owed to that person. Helping her avenge her dear friend, forgiving the serious crime she had committed, and simply the joy of being with her. 

Even in this life-threatening situation, she felt complied to play her best part. 

Was her own thoughts and fanaticism the same as the girl in front of her? 

“Queen?” 

“It’s nothing. Come, let’s go.” 

An intricately linked train of thought that was unable to be clarified. Hibiki hoped that she could at least draw a conclusion to this before her life came to an end. 

 

“??So, me, what sort of person is Higoromo-san?” 

Kurumi II asked Kurumi. 

“What sort of person huh……the type that can only trail behind.” 

“Is that the only for coming all the way to the Third Region Binah? Wasn’t she watching the battle between me and the Queen? Then……the difference in strength between us should have been made clear. Sneaking into a place like this is the same as searching for death.” 

Kurumi II’s words rang true. 

“……That’s right, because we’ve experienced so many meddlesome things together.” 

“I just hope she wouldn’t become too much of a heavy burden.” 

Kurumi felt an indescribable antipathy to Kurumi II’s words. 

“She is not a burden. Because of Hibiki-san, I was able to survive in this Neighboring World. 

That much I am certain.” 

Even when taking away how their first encounter was the worst, Higoromo Hibiki had already become an important existence for Tokisaki Kurumi. 

“Is that so? As I thought, I and me are different.” 

“Is that right?” 

“Yes. A clone establishes an ego at the time of birth. Due to being in a state of having experienced all of Tokisaki Kurumi’s past from the period of being extracted, certainly it is an existence that can be called Tokisaki Kurumi. However, a person’s mood is fickle. Differences in personality can be established from the time period the clone is created from. And the more you live, the more subtle branches will develop from Tokisaki Kurumi’s ego.” 

“……Did you undergo such an experience?” 

“Most of my life was occupied by the White Queen’s torture. So even if the memory is shared, I can’t understand why Higoromo-san is willing to work so hard for me and why me trusts her so wholeheartedly.” 

“Is that……true?” 

“But only our purpose will not be lost. If that is forgotten, Tokisaki Kurumi will no longer be Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

With a weary look, Kurumi II let out a sigh. 

“Purpose……” 

Certainly, this was the clear existence that defined the current Kurumi. Of course, revenge, karma, retribution, no matter how much she couldn’t recall the determination to bring her down would not change. This concept was likely the same for all Tokisaki Kurumi. 

However, there was another dream. The feeling of wanting to meet that person again, a tender passion she kept in her heart. Was this the dream for all Tokisaki Kurumi? Or was this her personal emotion? 

……Kurumi felt afraid to ask the person in front of her. 

“What does the White Queen intend to do in the First Region Keter?” 

“What else but anything necessary to destroy this Neighboring World?” 

The two Kurumi racked their heads together. With tremendous power, it wouldn’t be impossible to unify this Neighboring World. 

Even so, the White Queen still mentioned the word ‘destroy’. What were the reasons for that? 

“……It’s getting late.” 

Hearing those words, Kurumi’s body stiffened. Certainly, Hibiki still hadn’t returned yet. Had it been revealed that she transformed into the White Queen? 

“It’s fine. The other side wouldn’t kill her indiscriminately.” 

That’s right. Even if the other side discovered Hibiki’s true identity, she would be captured first and then interrogated. Kurumi had already told Hibiki in advance that if those circumstances occurred, she should confess everything immediately. 

Although she didn’t know what would happen to Hibiki afterwards, she would at least avoid being killed. 

“……I didn’t say this to avoid making everyone more anxious……but the attitude of the Empty girls for their Queen has passed worship and reached the level of fanaticism.” 

“Fanaticism……?” 

“If the White Queen wants them to die, they’ll die with a smile. If she wants to reset their personality, they would gladly accept that without hesitation. They are such existences. Similar to a Goddess……she’ll definitely be killed if discovered.” 

Kurumi’s chains clanked as she shouted with enough vigor to bite away at someone to death. 

“Tell me something like that before she left!” 

With a cold thin smile, Kurumi II responded back. 

“Like I said……can you think of another solution? There’s no difference as long as Higoromo-san gets <Zafkiel>. Or perhaps Higoromo-san long knew as well that Empties were such existences.” 

“……If something unfortunate happens to Hibiki-san, please remember this, me .” 

“Optionally, if anything happens to Higoromo-san, thoughts of revenge and punishment will remain as dreams.” 

 

Although it was called a treasure house, this place was the equivalent to an armory just like Kurumi II had said. Presumably, these Astral Dresses and Unsigned Angels lined up on the wall were all robbed from others. Swords, spears, guns, axes, musical instruments, and various other miscellaneous tools. At first glance they all looked different but each of them was a vicious weapon. 

……The problem was that an Unsigned Angel was inseparable from its Quasi-Spirit. An Unsigned Angel that symbolized an aspect of a Quasi-Spirit’s mind couldn’t be properly used by others. 

“But soon, this is about to come to fruition.” 

The Empty guided her to the treasure chest that was floating in space. 

“Just a little more and won’t we also be able to use the true power of this Unsigned Angel?” 

Hibiki trembled upon hearing those words. Fundamentally, a Quasi-Spirit shouldn’t be able to use another person’s Unsigned Angel unless there was a specific ability like Hibiki’s <King Killing>. It would be fine enough just to swing the weapon, but its true power wouldn’t activate. 

……However, the White Queen seems to be trying to subvert this. 

“Yes, be sure to offer up your life to me when that moment comes.” 

Perhaps the tone should be different??or so Hibiki thought to herself. But sure enough, the unnamed girl’s expression instantly brightened. 

“Yes, of course! For us Empties, we are an existence allowed to be born to be useful to the White Queen. Aaa……I can barely wait any longer!” 

Hibiki gritted her teeth tightly to hold herself back. 

She had almost opened her mouth to try and persuade this girl. Life was not something that should be abandoned so easily. You’re treating yourself too scornfully. It should be a natural principle……to cherish your own life more. 

However, Hibiki also knew that this girl would absolutely not understand what she is trying to convey. This would only arouse suspicion rather than her heart feeling moved. 

“Yes, I hope for your life to be useful for me.” 

So, Hibiki spat out what she presumed the White Queen would say and went along with that for her deception. 

Right now, I am standing on Tokisaki Kurumi’s side. The girl in front of her was an enemy, not a friend. Deep breaths??she needs to recall how she once acted while using Tokisaki Kurumi’s face to participate in that killing game. 

Holding the gun with a cold heart and pulling the trigger with a burning hand. 

“Let me look……this old fashioned pistol……is this it? The Unsigned Angel used by the Quasi-Spirit that looks exactly like the White Queen. ……Somehow, it feels different from your pistol. The appearance is too unpresentable!” 

“You idiot, what a foolish thing have you said about this gun? This gun is super-classical, super excellent, and super cool. This is an impeccable beauty incomparable to a plastic gun you are describing. A chosen gun is something made from wood and iron.” 

“Huh?” 

The Empty widened her eyes. Damn, because of the insult said to <Zafkiel>, she had instinctively replied back in the original’s tone of voice. 

After a moment of silence, Hibiki gave a sophisticated expression as she gracefully and slowly touched <Zafkiel> while muttering. 

“……She probably would have said something like that……” 

Hibiki prayed that she would be fooled by this excuse. Otherwise, the only other solution found would be to pull the hammer of this gun with all of her strength as she aimed behind this girl’s back. 

“The White Queen also has a great sense of humor……!” 

Terrific, a truly lucky hoodwink! 

Hibiki thought to herself while assuming a triumphant pose. 

“Then, I’ll be taking this <Zafkiel>. It will likely be an important foundation for the coming day……” 

Foundation, coming day, Hibiki said whatever irritatingly vague words were possible as she grabbed <Zafkiel>. 

“Yes, it is just as the White Queen says.” 

“Thank you.” 

The Empty stared blankly at Hibiki holding <Zafkiel>. 

Her eyes were filled with emptiness. 

“??Why are you thanking me?” 

“……Huh?” 

“To make use of us is the White Queen’s responsibility and it is a pleasure for us to be used, so the Queen shows no appreciation whatsoever. Even if it to show appreciation for us surviving a battle, there should be no gratitude expressed. Making good of our lives with no achievement that should have disappeared, that is how we express our gratitude. But……you’re thanking me?” 

The girl whispered to herself with an empty look as she quickly grabbed a short gun Unsigned Angel hanging on the wall. 

“Imposter!” 

But, Hibiki’s response was more agile than hers. Since this was only a fake appearance, she was prepared to be exposed at any time. Those who were careful in such a situation were overwhelmingly superior in terms of preparation. 

The girl leaped as she aimed with the short gun. She loaded the bullets Kurumi had given her as a charm and pulled the trigger on <Zafkiel>. 

She didn’t hesitate. If she didn’t kill this girl, she would be killed and that would lead to Kurumi dying. That was a conclusion she was absolutely unwilling to let occur. 

“……Qu, een……” 

The Empty girl without a name scattered into oblivion. However, her dedication was still rewarded wonderfully. The loud gunshot resounded throughout the Third Region Binah, announcing that an unusual event had just occurred. 

That is to say she had been exposed. 

“……Ah geez!” 

Hibiki shot a quick glance at the nameless Empty that had disappeared and began to run with all her might. 

 

The sound of far off gunfire even reached the ears of the two prisoners. 

“Someone just shot.” 

No matter how faint or no matter how many tens of thousands of other gunfire heard, this sound was unmistakably coming from <Zafkiel>. 

“Who is shooting? Is it Hibiki-san? Or??” 

The latter case would be the worst possible development. Even if it was the former, this was still in the enemy stronghold. It would be a huge blunder to shoot……in other words; she must have pulled the trigger knowing what would happen next. 

That being said, was she cornered to the point where she had to shoot? Kurumi placed her hand against her chest to suppress her restlessness. Her heartbeat felt exceptionally ear-piercing. 

Footsteps. 

The sound of full powered running reached Kurumi’s ears. 

“That a relief, it seems like it was Hibiki-san who shot.” 

“Ara, me can understand that from listening?” 

“Yes, listening to that sound you should know??” 

Step by step, a frantic sprint with miserable footsteps trying to desperately shake off pursuit hot on her tail. 

This rhythm sounded unexpectedly sweet. 

“Apologizes for the long wait, one person’s portion of <Zafkiel> is here????????????!” 

So, even when a girl came kicking in the heavy gate, Kurumi wasn’t surprised that it was Higoromo Hibiki. 

“Are you okay?” 

“No, I don’t think it’s alright at all! I kept thinking I was going to die while running all this way here! I’m leaving what happens later to you!” 

Being handed <Zafkiel>, Kurumi gave a fearless smile. The feeling pressed upon her hand, a comfortable sensation without worries as her arm and the gun integrated with each other. The shadows solidified into a bullet, breaking apart the chains at the speed of sound. 

“……How magnificent.” 

Kurumi II breathed out a sigh of applause. Certainly, having only swallowed defeat from the White Queen once, she was different from the one that had been constantly tortured. As long as 

<Zafkiel> was in hand, restoring strength was inevitable, but still?? 

“Don’t look at me like that. I have also experienced my fair share of battles.” 

Kurumi gave a refined, graceful, and fearless smile. 

“Don’t worry about me who am already half-dead. As I am now, I look like I can’t lift anything heavier than chopsticks……” 

“That’s right……then it can’t be helped. Although it’s a bit regretful to part ways here, let’s go on ahead Hibiki-san.” 

“Eh, are you really going to leave her here?” 

“I’m joking, joking.” 

“How can I seriously throw myself away. ……The time taken away must be somewhere in this region. As long as that time is hidden, me should return to be helpful. Besides, isn’t me the only one that knows a lot about the layout here?” 

“Please, I was just kidding, kidding.” 

Kurumi smiled as the other Kurumi also smiled back at her. 

“……Ara, me is really me.” 

“Good grief.” 

“Okay ? ? this boring conversation is over!” 

Hibiki forcefully interrupted the conversation. Because if she didn’t, these stomach ache inducing sarcastic comments would continue on for forever. 

“That isn’t wrong. Shall we escape from this castle now, Kurumi II-san?” 

“Yes, of course. ……And also, can you please stop calling me Kurumi II?” 

Kurumi exposed an invincible smile as she pulled on <Zafkiel>’s trigger. 

The chains broke apart. 

Kurumi II slowly stood up, refusing Hibiki offer to lend her a hand. 

“I want to walk with my own feet after such a long time.” 

Listening to her say this, even Hibiki had no other option but to step down. Kurumi II slowly but surely took her first steps. 

……Two steps, three steps. 

“I can’t walk.” 

It seemed that she had reached her limit. Kurumi sighed as she pointed <Zafkiel> towards her. 

“It can’t be helped. I use the Fourth Bullet <Dalet> to immediately restore you.” 

Kurumi pulled down on the trigger. 

The Fourth Bullet <Dalet>……the ability to reverse the flow of time to return something to its former condition. Any injury can be cured and any damaged recovered. But?? 

“Ara? ……Why is it like this?” 

Kurumi II’s wounds didn’t heal. She smiled weakly. 

“Unfortunately, my injuries can’t be healed. I don’t know if it’s because these wounds have lasted too long or if due to the time being taken away. I won’t be able to fight until regaining that time. I thought it might work after getting out of these chains……but it looks like it’s still no good.” 

Silence fell for a moment. Then, that girl gave a faint loathsome smile. Her expression pointed towards her telling the truth. 

“……So it’s like this.” 

Kurumi didn’t give sympathy. Compassion wouldn’t make sense here. 

What was necessary here was forward thinking. Having used up all of her strength talking, Kurumi II helplessly fell to the ground. Kurumi sighed as she exchanges looks with Hibiki. 

“Hibiki-san, it appears difficult for me to move. Can you please take care of her for the time being?” 

“Yes, yes, I understand!” 

“Ah, ah. How humiliating……” 

Hibiki lightly carried Kurumi II on her back as she hide behind Kurumi. Kurumi took a deep breath as she set up her short and long gun respectively. 

“So now, we must??rush out to crave a bloody path on this battlefield!” 

Kicking to tear apart the thick iron door, Tokisaki Kurumi broke free from the prison. What Kurumi saw moving forward were pure white Pawns waiting for her with Unsigned Angels in their hands. 

“Empties……” 

Silence, there was no expression just like a Noh mask. There was no fear or joy, only seemingly striving to do the utmost in fulfilling their duty by standing in her way. Upon taking a closer look, some had Unsigned Angels not suitable for combat. Presumably, single blow should suffice to take them down. 

“I will warn you once. ……If you all get in the way, I will not show any mercy. Are you listening? No mercy whatsoever.” 

The group of Empties attacked all at once as if responding to those words?? 

And they all collapsed without achieving anything at all. 

“It would be a waste of bullets. Disappear like the small fry that you are.” 

The <City of Devouring Time> sucked away their time, leaving them helpless to resist as they disappeared. 

“……Empties……don’t own much time……” 

Kurumi II muttered in a low voice. 

After all, an Empty Quasi-Spirit was just like a broken container, a fragile existence that will slowly die. 

Kurumi took away their time while understanding this. 

“As long as it is the choice of the Empties to follow the White Queen……even if I pity them as enemies, I won’t be merciful.” 

After all, Kurumi also knew a girl that had long since survived being an Empty. If so, whether or not they had been brainwashed, it was still the Empties’ personal choice. 

They chose to follow the White Queen. 

While knowing her own intentions, they still choose the treat Kurumi as an enemy as brandished their weapons. 

So, Kurumi would not forgive them. She could only endure her heart feeling a little distraught. 

Since even if they were fanatical followers, they were also still young girls susceptible to her own thoughts. 

“……First priority is to escape. You must reinvigorate yourself before encountering Rook, Bishop, or Knight. Running away all over the place in this castle would be useless. You need to prepare enough reiryoku, armaments, and tactical operations to overcome them.” 

“I agree! Anyhow here, Higoromo Hibiki’s crisis detection sensor has been ringing nonstop, so I recommend leaving as soon as possible!” 

Of course, Kurumi also intended to do the same. Realistically, it was possible that being tortured, deprived of her ability, and dying might cause distortions to this Neighboring World. 

“Anyway, let’s head to the starting point where Hibiki-san first arrived in this region. There might be a clue??” 

In that moment, the castle began shaking. Kurumi and the others braced their bodies for the Compile occurring. But soon after seeing the corridor curve like a bow, they soon realized this was different. 

“This is……!?” 

“Oh no, rearrangement……! Me , don’t get separated!” 

Hearing Kurumi II shout, Kurumi quickly grabbed Hibiki’s hand. Shaking, trembling, it felt just like a boat cast into the rough seas. 

“What is going on!?” 

“It’s rearrangement! The inside layout of the castle is going to completely change now! If we are separated, I don’t know if we’ll be able to find each other again, so stay close!” 

“U-Understood!” 

The corridor in front of them was swaying like the raging waves, lifting the hallway like an elevator. Shortly afterwards, the walls up front began to close up. If the timing was just a little off, they would surely be separated. 

“Also, Higoromo-san!” 

“Y-Yes! What is it other Kurumi-san!” 

“I……feel queasy…..going……going to vomit……!” 

As Kurumi II powerlessly said that, Hibiki’s expression stiffened. 

“Please, under no circumstances may you vomit ? ? !” 



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