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The Region of Competing Wind 

The Eighth Region Hod. The Kurumi clone next to her asked. 

“So, what are you going to do? Me.” 

“Anyway, let’s reconvene first.” 

Cistus, the name that was given to this Kurumi clone. She was defeated by the White Queen and imprisoned in the Third Region Binah. Despite her having fought against Kurumi, after many twists and turns, she accepted her social status as a clone and joined together to fight with Kurumi in a united struggle. 

“Cistus, please return back to the shadows.” 

“I know, now then.” 

Once Cistus went back to her shadows, Kurumi looked around thinking of what to do next. 

To be honest, she felt a little tired. 

After all, it had only been mere moments since that fierce battle fought in the Third Region Binah. Fighting each other, killing each other, and fighting in order to live. 

And somehow, she managed to escape. ……To her regrets, she didn’t win, but had to flee. Of course, it was a huge reversal from that previous situation. It was no exaggeration to say that she achieved a substantial victory, but?? 

The information she learned from Hibiki was the extent of her knowledge about the Eighth Region Hod. 

Two forces were competing against each other and the fighting was as fierce as the Tenth Region Malkuth. 

But……Kurumi looked around. 

“It’s too carefree.” 

It was a brief carefree time. The transparent blue sky, giant white columns of clouds that pressed against the heavens, lush grassy surroundings, the gentle slopes that seem to continue on forever, and the audible chirping sounds of cicadas. 

……Although it should be impossible to actually have cicadas, Kurumi walked carefully while twisting her neck. 

Hibiki and Carte were nowhere to be seen. Cistus was exhausted and had fallen asleep in the shadows. After that fierce battle, this was unavoidable. 

Despite this, the Astral Dress she was proud of……was feeling a little bit hot. Particularly, the portion going down from her waist to her skirt felt like being in a sauna. 

However, this fashion sense was a symbol of her armament and disposition as a maiden. 

Ignoring the hot weather for the time being, she continued the priority search for Higoromo Hibiki and Carte À Jouer. 

Flying up to the sky would be a bit too difficult in her current exhausted state. One of her priorities would be to recover the time she had wasted?? 

A man-made building finally appeared in the far off distance. 

It seemed that Quasi-Spirits from the Eighth Region Hod should be here. Then, she should proceed over there. Even if they weren’t there, she should go to a place that would be easy to rendezvous. 

……Tokisaki Kurumi’s guess was a little off. The two of them also wandered looking for a place to meet up. As a result, they had joined the rebel army opposing Banouin, which was now in the exact opposite direction of the Dominion of the Eighth Region Hod that Kurumi was now heading towards. 

 

“Listen well! We must become more elite than this! We are waiting to select the best of the best! 

Become a steel blade that can easily bury Banouin’s soldiers!” 

After talking with the Demon Sergeant girl, Higoromo Hibiki adapted on the spot in the span of three minutes. While assuming a crude Astral Dress as a disguise, she was standing upright while listening to that girl’s speech. As a new recruit with the rank of Private, she had to abide to these rules. 

The Demon Sergeant called herself Jugasaki Retsumi. 

It felt like a pseudonym or name that wasn’t being used properly. However, considering the various circumstances, Hibiki chose not to ridicule her. 

“Yes, sir!” 

Incidentally, Carte À Jouer said, “Ah, no. This isn’t in line with my image! Good-bye!” and disappeared with three of her playing cards. 

“Degozaru!” 

However, Ace of Spades, who was too late in escaping, was caught and forced to undergo training with Hibiki. She followed behind the cries of “Yes, sir!”, but despite already been scolded, she refused to change. 

“Private Higoromo!” 

“Yes sir!” 

“What is your goal?” 

“To kill, destroy, overthrow!” 

“Is that so? ……It should be just like that! Good, kill, destroy, overthrow! I approve of this! 

Now then, start running!” 

Perplexed at the order, the Quasi-Spirits began running to somewhere as Hibiki stared to take the lead to the forefront. 

“Good, very good, Private Higoromo! But not enough, what do you think is missing!?” 

“Sir! If possible, I would like to sing a song, sir!” 

“No need to ask, sing!” 

Hibiki shouted loudly to the exhausted Quasi-Spirit running behind her. 

“Alright maggots! Sing after me! Sing from the bottom of your hearts! If you understand, proceed! Small seven year old Kurumi-san!” 

“Sm……small seven year old Kurumi-san!” 

“Drool dripping while taking an afternoon nap!” 

“Drool dripping while taking an afternoon nap!” 

“Squishy skin that is soft and smooth!” 

“Squishy skin that is soft and smooth!” 

“Adorableness is a perfect score without rival!” 

“Adorableness is a perfect score without rival!” 

“Let’s become family!” 

“Let’s adopt her!” 

“That child doesn’t understand!” 

“Let’s discuss about that!” 

“So like this it’s decided!” 

“Private Higoromo, what are you talking about!?” 

“Everyone seems quite excited!” 

“Yes! Although I don’t quite understand, I don’t care since the tempo is good!” 

“By the way, the genre is military cadence! Mixing in obscene words should immediately be banned!” 

“Sergeant Higoromo seems to understand a lot!” 

Jugasaki nodded several times as if impressed. 

“By the way, am I really a Sergeant!?” 

“Ours is a supreme meritocracy!” 

“I see!” 

Hibiki snickered on the inside. She had been promoted just by running with a yell. Maybe it wouldn’t be too difficult to get away from here. 

……Despite her adaptability being high, forgetting her original goal and purpose was one of Higoromo Hibiki’s shortcomings. 

 

“Stand down, who are you!?” 

Kurumi arrived a huge fortress, or rather a huge town guarded by a castle. Kurumi was stopped by the guards asking for her name. 

“My name is Tokisaki Kurumi. I came to give my greetings to the Dominion.” 

“This castle is currently in a state of war. I cannot let you see Kareha-sama.” 

“Ara, ara. A state of war……what is going on?” 

“It has nothing to do with you. Go back.” 

…..Treated like this, Tokisaki Kurumi knew exactly how to counterattack against this girl. 

“Then, this information about the White Queen is unnecessary. I guess I’ll head back to the Ninth Region Yesod.” 

“You……h-hold on a second!?” 

Saying the name of the Queen was truly effective. The guard hurried back into the town. Soon after, she immediately returned along with a few Quasi-Spirits with Unsigned Angels in hand. 

“Kareha-sama will see you. But take caution of your words before you speak.” 

“Yes, yes. I’m much honored.” 

Kurumi smiled as she was allowed into the castle. After climbing up some steep stairs, she entered the inner citadel where the lord of the castle presided. 

“……Well, well, you look exactly the same.” 

The Dominion of the Eighth Region Hod welcomed Kurumi with an elegant and graceful smile. 

“Are there no chairs?” 

“Unfortunately, as you can see, this is pure-Japanese style.” 

Kurumi exchanged glances with her. Long black hair, a beautiful girl wearing a kimono that others would question in this hot climate. 

Contrary to Mizuha who gave a gentle impression, this girl exuded a soft but blade-like atmosphere. So that’s how it was. Kurumi was convinced that she was Mizuha’s older sister. 

“You are Mizuha-san’s older sister……correct?” 

“……Yes, that’s right. My name is Banouin Kareha. Please freely ask away.” 

“In order to go to the First Region Keter, I wish for you to open this region’s gate. How about that?” 

Kareha shook her head upon hearing what Kurumi had asked. 

“It’s no good, it’s no good. Right now we are in a state of war, it’d be impossible to do this unless the noise settles down. Moreover, in the first place I can only open the door to the Seventh Region Netzach.” 

As expected, Kareha had rejected Kurumi’s request. However, some of this was already anticipated. In the first place, Kurumi didn’t think she would be able to go to the First Region Keter right away. 

“The second request is if you can find two Quasi-Spirits, Higoromo Hibiki and Carte À Jouer.” 

“Carte À Jouer……surely wasn’t she the former Dominion of the Third Region Binah?” 

“Yes, have you met before?” 

“Yes, yes. Despite my looks, I am quite old.” 

Speaking of which, Kurumi remembered now that she was the former Dominion. 

“Are you in that much of a hurry to go to the First Region Keter? Don’t you want to spend some time relaxing here?” 

“No, I can’t afford to rest.” 

“A pity, time spent here would be like Heaven.” 

“Compared to that, about that gate……” 

“As I said earlier, the door will not open during a state of war. If I just let you leave, I won’t be able to win this war. So……let’s end this war together. I’ll make that the condition for opening the gate. How is that?” 

Kurumi sat down as she turned to look at Kareha again. Looking at her posture while listening to what she had said. 

“……Can you please explain the situation to me in more detail?” 

Kareha nodded as she spoke. 

“In the Eighth Region Hod, there are two forces competing. We are Banouin, in other words, the official Dominion. On the other side is Jugasaki Retsumi. She’s always aiming like a retainer trying to supplant her lord……in other words, they are the rebel army.” 

“I see, so this is a strife unfolding between mutual kinsmen. Indeed, that is too terrible.” 

“Then, let me explain our fighting style. Well, first of all would be the weapon.” 

Kareha handed a colorful toy-like gun to Kurumi. 

“So, the objective is like this.” 

What Kareha held in her hands was something resembling the poi rake net used in goldfish scooping. 

“This looks just like a water gun……” 

While saying that, Kurumi pulled the trigger. Surprisingly, water came out. 

“Water shot out.” 

“You win if you hit this target.” 

“I see. Are you making fun of me?” 

As Kurumi glared, Kareha kept a calm look as she slowly shook her head. 

“No, no. I find it horrible to kill people. So this water gun is used. This way no one will be hurt.” 

“……Hey, are you really using this to fight?” 

“Well, if needed to describe this, it is just like an event. Although many people will be injured, no one will die. It’s that sort of event. ……The other side also understands this well.” 

“……Then there isn’t any need for my help?” 

Kareha laughed as she shook her fan from side to side. 

“Even if I describe it as an event, it won’t be decided until victory or defeat is determined. If we lose, Banouin Castle will become Jugasaki Castle. So please lend us your aid.” 

Kareha lowered her head. ……Even if she refused, the other party had already made it clear that the gate wouldn’t be opened until this event was over, so it couldn’t be helped. 

“Ha……well, in that case.” 

“Ah, that Angel……can I ask for its name?” 

“What are you asking about <Zafkiel>?” 

“It can’t be used. If you want to use it, make the adjustments so that it won’t cause damage.” 

“Ehh……” 

“What about attacking with the blunt side of the gun?” 

“Impossible?” 

“Impossible.” 

There was no room for negotiation. However, Kurumi still felt reluctant. Although her bullets served to defeat the enemy, there were several options to stop the opponents’ movements without killing them. 

“How about improving <Zafkiel> into a water gun-type?” 

Kurumi gave a serious look upon hearing Kareha’s proposal. 

“……Then, I’ll be able to shoot?” 

“Yes, then by all means shoot as rapidly as you please.” 

It couldn’t be helped. Kurumi let out a sigh. Remodeling <Zafkiel> to make it weaker rather than stronger, it wasn’t a good feeling. 

“……Ah, in that case will my Astral Dress need to be changed as well?” 

“I will introduce you to a good tailor.” 

In the Ninth Region Yesod, she had already decided to wear something new by changing her Astral Dress to a skintight jersey. If this was a non-lethal battle, then she could wear something she would never usually think of. 

Since the current season was summertime. 

A refreshing outfit may be nice. Yes, for example?? 

 

Hibiki ran while thinking about how high the sky was. A classical M1 Garand was carried over her shoulders. The heavy gun was made of wood and iron. 

The sound of cicadas chirping entered her ears. The weather was blistering hot. However, this heat also had a relaxing effect when anticipating the exhilarating feeling of wiping away all of this sweat away with a towel after this run was completed. 

“Ha, ha, ha, ha……” 

“Yes, yes, yes, yes……” 

“Ace of Spades-san, are you okay?” 

“Hahahaha, it should be fine to be a little resentful to those three and my master for fleeing.” 

The playing card girl was running sideways, since running regularly would mean a stronger wind resistance for her with each narrow step. Therefore, it was necessary for her to give three times the effort than an ordinary person. 

“After all, as expected it’s impossible for a flat surface like I to carry a gun!” 

Rather than have the gun hang from a shoulder strap, Ace of Spades had it tucked away in the corners of her playing card. She couldn’t shoot but could use a sword……there was a little resentment towards that fact. 

“Over here, everyone seems to be universally conscripted with guns.” 

“That’s why I can only drag my hind legs along. Uwa, this way I can only smile while thinking of ways of moving forward.” 

“Don’t worry, follow after me! I won’t let you let be scolded!” 

“Ku……the sympathy of a Quasi-Spirit is permeating into me! If I didn’t have master, I would have pledge an oath of loyalty right here! So then, how about a vow of sisterhood!” 

“Sister! I want a sister! I want to show off to Kurumi-san!” 

Hibiki’s desire was truly straightforward. 

“Then I’ll be the little sister! Big sis!” 

“Can you call me Onee-chan here?” 

“No, that point I can’t concede to.” 

“Well, whatever. Then my sister-in-law, follow after your Onee-chan!” 

And so, a strange sister-in-law treaty was signed here. Incidentally, Hibiki had been steadily promoted, reaching the rank of Lieutenant without having participated in any actual combat. 

“Lieutenant-dono! All members assemble!” 

“Understood! Everyone line up! Alright, Ace of Spades-chan, also line up properly!” 

There was one strange person taking up a lot of space by standing horizontally, but it wasn’t regarded with too much concern. Even though a lot of comrades had tried to escape, there were still numerous Quasi-Spirits left around. 

“Eyes forward!” 

Although Hibiki didn’t understand it quite well, this seemed to be a military term they came up with. The Quasi-Spirits here seemed to understand this as they gave salute. 

“Eh, ahem, ahem. After three days, we have decided to cross the sea at the center of the Eighth Region Hod and attack Banouin Castle!” 

The soldiers stirred up a ruckus. 

“However, it is already not an exaggeration to say that we are match for a thousand! We, under the banner of the Jugasaki name, will kill two birds with one stone! Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, let’s do our best to etch our spirits of the folding screen like a Buddhist monk! (TL Note: Entire line is a tongue twister in Japanese. Doesn’t really translate well into English) 

“O-Oh??!” 

“Your response is too light!” 

“Ooh??!!!!!!” 

“Once more, again!” 

“Oooooooooh!!!!!!!” 

 Degozaru?? ? 

“Alright! Have fun training today! Confirm the situation!” 

“Equipment ready!” “Equipment ready!” “Equipment ready!” “Um, isn’t my swimsuit a little lacking in fabric?” 

“Go forward!” “Forward at full speed!” “Full sprint ahead!” “Uh? Um, that’s quite the fickle change.” “Who was thinking that we should play Shiritori now?” 

After this chaotic conversation, they began running today as well. 

“Hmm, doesn’t this feel like joining some club activity?” 

“A club activity, is that something that encourages you from middle school to high school?” 

“Why are you phrasing it suspiciously like that, Ace of Spades-san?” 

“For me to be able to do this; there would have never been the chance like this before.” 

The Demon Sergeant (her actual rank was General) Jugasaki Retsumi lead an army with a total of 500 people (NPCs included), while the Banouin army came at a total of 700 people (NPCs included). As long as they had the numerical disadvantage, they would be forced to rely on a surprise attack. 

The Eighth Region Hod was different from the other regions, with there being two strips of land divided by a huge sea. The relatively small space occupied by the rebel army could be described as the extent in which they were forced into a corner. 

From Jugasaki perspective, Banouin’s side was a group of people living enthusiastically on fertile land. On the other side’s perspective, Jugasaki Retsumi was a savage Quasi-Spirit stuck in a strange place. 

However, despite the conflict, it was clear from their appearance that it wasn’t a complete divide. 

A water gun, a bathing suit, and a paper target somewhere on the body…… 

Yes, all of the Quasi-Spirits were wearing swimsuits. 

“Gently sway your body to avoid being hit!” 

So the training proceeded like this. Hibiki stood upright and looked onward (perhaps she had already transferred to the instructor side, but Hibiki didn’t care since this seemed to be a common occurrence) as she was moving, not moving, moving, not moving……the surrounding Quasi-Spirits frowned at the sight. 

“Are you looking to seek amusement, Lieutenant-dono?” 

“No, no, that’s not the case at all.” 

“……Let’s put that aside, how’s the search for Kurumi-san?” 

“I’m still secretly investigating, but I can’t find her at all in this army.” 

Well of course. If she was incorporated into the army, the rebel army itself would suffer a rebellion at the expense of General Jugasaki. On the other hand, since such a thing had not occurred, she was definitely not here. 

……That is to say. 

“Now, now……she must surely be wandering around somewhere in the Eighth Region Hod!” 

“That’s right!” 

The two of them looked at each other and ignored the possibility. 

It was too horrible to even imagine??Tokisaki Kurumi joining the Banouin army and even assisting Banouin Kareha. 

That idea that this would be impossible would turn out to be an absolute blunder. 

 

This is how it happened. 

“I see, I see. I’ll change into a swimsuit and serve as a challenge for your various attractions.” 

Right now Kurumi was a free-loader in Banouin Castle. Thanks to the convenience of Kareha’s subordinates, they were being catered to without even needing to lift a finger. 

The two of them were having tea while looking out at the vast garden in the castle. Despite her seeming preference for green tea……Kareha didn’t hesitate to add ample amounts of milk and sugar as if it was black tea. 

“That’s right. The rebels have planned to cross the sea and challenge the hard-working attractions built here. Finally, they have decided to fight against me.” 

“……So it really is peaceful.” 

Kurumi was frankly stunned that this wasn’t a bloodthirsty war being waged. However, Kareha muttered with a gentle smile. 

“It’s true though. I don’t have many attractions left out there now. The beach is almost completely destroyed.” 

“No one will die?” 

“In most cases, no one will die.” 

“Ara, so there will be some dead?” 

“There are occasional accidents with Unsigned Angels. And also…for an example of this. The Empty-san.” 

Like this Kurumi was convinced. 

Vacant, hollow, such were the Empty. At that point, there was no much else they could do. 

“So right now it is peaceful. The Tenth Region Malkuth is too excessively cruel.” 

“I’ll leave the fights to death to the Tenth Region Malkuth and the Fifth Region Gevurah. We strive to be peaceful and live long here.” 

“……What do you know about the Fifth Region Gevurah?” 

“I am still a Dominion after all. Just in case, I have stocked up on knowledge about the other regions.” 

“If possible, can you please inform me? My final goal is to arrive at the First Region Keter, but it seems I’ll have to travel to many other regions before that.” 

Kareha laughed while covering her mouth with her fan. 

“……Well, I have some spare time right now. Let me explain as quickly and easily as possible.” 

Kareha closed her fan and quickly began drawing something in the air. 

“This is……!” 

“Each region is drawn so that it’ll be easy to understand.” 

“The starting point is the Tenth Region Malkuth, then the Ninth Region Yesod, and now the Eighth Region Hod……” 

“Looking it like this, is seems I can take a shortcut.” 

“That’s true. If you head to the Sixth Region Tiphereth, it should be at least possible to reach the door to the First Region Keter……but isn’t that impossible?” 

 

“Why?” 

“As you can see, the gate is locked.” 

“Hmm, locked……” 

The gate was tightly sealed and requires the consent of the Dominion to unlock it. 

“In the past, Hibiki-san hacked me in to go through the gate in the Tenth Region Malkuth.” 

“No, no. The security is nowhere as naïve as it is in the Tenth Region Malkuth. For here, the gate is open for the Seventh Region Netzach and the Ninth Region Yesod, but for the Fifth Region Gevurah, the Sixth Region Tiphereth, and the Tenth Malkuth, the gate is under strict management due to the gate being closed on both sides.” 

“Is it because of the White Queen?” 

“Of course.” 

Kareha shrugged her shoulders. 

“Even as a Dominion, I am afraid. The White Queen. ……How terrifying. A monster, an apparition, she’s something that a Quasi-Spirit should never draw close to.” 

“I won though.” 

“As far as I’ve heard, didn’t you resort to fleeing after returning the favor?” 

“You really know how to strike a sore spot……!” 

“Ooh, how scary, how scary.” 

Kareha joked while flapping her folding fan. 

“Well, but as you said, we now know her method of sneaking in here. I’m really grateful for that.” 

While reminding her of the Kansai region, her words had slightly strange accent to it that made others want to yell. However, Kurumi chose to ignore this. 

“I’m not happy at all to hear your gratitude.” 

“Also. If possible, I would try to open a door to a region besides the Seventh Region Netzach. 

Ah, Hibiki-san and Carte-san seem to be on the opposite side, so please give up.” 

“……Ah, yes. Besides them, am I allowed to take some time from the Quasi-Spirits here?” 

Kareha’s fan came to a stop as she considered it for a while. 

“Hmm. After all it is war. It doesn’t matter if you take enough time to knock them out. But if it was me, it doesn’t matter if you absorb enough time to kill?” 

Words uttered that were completely beyond expectation. 

“Uhh……right now.” 

Close to a secret whisper, Kareha spoke. 

“If it was me, it doesn’t matter if you absorb enough time to kill.” 

The summer sunshine, the dry atmosphere, and the humming of cicadas. 

The scorching sunshine itself was a roar of life. 

So, there was a strange unease in the words ‘to kill’ said by Kareha. 

“……You have a bad taste in jokes.” 

It was a casual reply, but it still took a long time to say it. 

Kareha laughed. 

“My bad, that joke was in poor taste.” 

Closing her fan, Kareha stood up slowly and walked towards the courtyard filled with gravel. 

“……I’ll go talk to the supporters. The more time you have, the stronger you’ll be. Isn’t that right?” 

“Yes, that’s correct.” 

There were three different fuels that Kurumi required to fight. 

Shadows, Reiryoku, and time. Shadows are in essence the infinite bullets that fueled <Zafkiel> as well as the space for clones to be on standby (of course as long as there is light, shadows are in ample supply). Reiryoku is what is needed to build and maintain her Astral Dress and Angel. 

The most expensive one required for battle was the time needed to use <Zafkiel>’s abilities. 

……Thinking it over, there was a great cost paid in exchange for this outstanding combat ability. 

There were many ways of gathering Reiryoku in the Neighboring World. In the Ninth Region Yesod, it was even possible to supplement Reiryoku through singing. 

However, time wouldn’t spawn easily like a drop item unless it was intentionally replenished. 

<City of Devouring Time> ??unless she used this ability to draw away time from living creatures (including Quasi-Spirits) this fuel would be consumed violently with each fight. 

Of course, it would be possible to recover time in the Third Region Binah……but that exception was due that region having the same Spirit genus as Kurumi and likely that same capacity was also shared by the White Queen. 

In the first place, the concept of time is very weak in the Neighboring World. In the Tenth Region Malkuth, time was only distinguishable through the transfer between day and night. 

Other than perhaps NPCs and BOTs, there was nothing living here besides Quasi-Spirits. 

“Um, Kareha-san.” 

Kurumi interrupted her own thoughts as she called out to the girl standing under the scorching sun. 

“What is this Neighboring World?” 

The concept of time was weak and various materials can be created as long as Reiryoku is used. 

It was as if?? 

“Who knows? This place is like heaven.” 

Banouin Kareha whispered to her in a soft voice. Kurumi thought so as well. 

This Neighboring World was either heaven, hell, or a paradise…… 

“……?” 

Because of the heat haze, Kareha’s presence suddenly felt distorted for a moment. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“……It’s nothing. Now then, I’ll just wantonly stroll to acquire the time needed from the Quasi-Spirits responsible for supporting behind the scenes.” 

“Please, if you may.” 

As Kurumi stood up, Kareha grabbed her own arm while seeing her off. 

Even under the scorching sun, it felt as cold as ice. 

“Not good. Sure enough is it because of the White Queen, or am I simply breaking down?” 

Kareha looked up towards the sky. 

The dazzling light burned into her eyes, but it was nothing compared to this love. 

This castle, this sky, the sounds of these cicadas, even this rich forest was all built by themselves. 

When considering this, she should feel proud. 

“Undoubtedly I’m only alive now through sheer luck……” 

The memories of the distant past rose to the surface. 

How many years has she been alive like this? 

Or has it only been a few months? 

The concept of time here was unclear for everyone. Even trying to measure time through memories was impossible. 

But vaguely, Banouin Kareha thought about herself for a long time. 

“Kareha-sama.” 

Sagakure Yui gently approached. 

“Hmm?” 

The Yui that was borrowed from the Seventh Region Netzach wasn’t strictly a Quasi-Spirit. 

Rather it could be said that she was the only living entity in the Neighboring World that wasn’t a Quasi-Spirit. 

Sagakure Yui was a handcrafted mechanical doll. 

She was responsible for espionage, subversive activities, and assassination. She had all of the functions necessary for a Kunoichi. Nevertheless, she was made by the Dominion of the Seventh Region Sagakure Yuri. She understood that the possibility of being betrayed should always linger in her head. 

……That said, Yuri had once discontentedly retorted that she would never make such a defective product. 

“Banouin-sama……your little sister wants to see you……” 

Yui’s words caused Kareha’s expression to soften, but then it suddenly turned gloomy. 

“I don’t want to see her. Haven’t I already said that before?” 

“Yes. But??” 

Kareha waved her fan to silence her. 

“I don’t want to see her.” 

After closing this subject matter, she was about to leave as a voice was heard from behind her. 

“……Mizuha-sama said that she will come regardless of having permission.” 

“Ha?” 

Kareha’s feet stopped as she turned back. 

“Presently, the situation in the Ninth Region has calmed down, and with Kirari Rinemu-sama there, there will be no problems even if she goes out on a business trip. She would like to stay here with or without permission.” 

“……Seems like Kirari-han still has her wits……” 

This was more like natural intuition rather than wisdom. 

“Fine, let her come. But I still won’t see her.” 

“……Why like this……” 

Yui sadly frowned. For a moment a feeling of passion surged in her throat, but Kareha managed to suppress it. 

Closing the fan, she whispered coldly. 

“I didn’t ask you for what is necessary.” 

It was very much a sound argument. Yui quietly bowed in shame as she briefly whispered to be excused. 

……Kareha thought that she did something a little bad. 

By no means did Yui mean any malice. Rather it would be better to say that she wouldn’t hesitate dying if it meant completing her mission. In the killing game held in the Tenth Region Malkuth, she still happily participated despite knowing that she wouldn’t be able to come back. 

Wanting to call her back, the thoughts were there but the words wouldn’t come out. 

Shouldn’t she be indifferent to this matter??those words struck her like a sudden revelation. 

Kareha decided not to say anything. 

“Aah??in the end, I am still me.” 

Having said those words as if giving up on something, Kareha stamped her feet on the white gravel. 

 

“Thanks for the feast.” 


“Um……what happened just now?” 

The Quasi-Spirits responsible for rear-support asked with a look of not quite understanding what just occurred. Fortunately, due to the large number of people, it wasn’t necessary to absorb so much time that it would leave them with extreme fatigue. 

At best, everyone was just a bit more tired than usual. 

“It’s nothing. Now then, it’s a pleasure to meet you all. Please continue your support.” 

Kurumi said that before deciding to quickly leave. 

After walking through the castle gates, a fortress similar to a modern bunker appeared in front. If the prior building, Kareha’s residence, was the symbol of the Eighth Region Hod, this stronghold was the keystone of the frontlines. 

The sandy beach and sea was in front of this fort. The sandy beach was surrounded by barbed wire. Kurumi thought that she had vaguely seen this scene somewhere before. 

However, as far as she remembered, she had never been to such a place before. Since she had almost no memories left of the other world, such thoughts were meaningless. 

Well, if she recalled an old film, she ought to be able to recall it soon. 

Ah, this was Omaha beach. 

In any case, the war games hadn’t begun yet. So while strolling through the fortress, Kurumi began to relax on the sandy beach. 

If Banouin castle was an agglomeration of elegance, this was an accumulation of boorishness. 

“Ammunition, bring ammunition!” 

As someone cried out, a corresponding person ran forward with a plastic fuel tank. Really, there was the feeling of a war occurring soon. While they won’t be killing people, it did feel like a slaughter would happen in a different sense. 

Thinking it over, it must be a crucial moment for them to leave Banouin castle. Despite repelling them each time, there was no room in their hearts to relax. 

Along the way, due to it being a rare opportunity, she proceeded to change directions in order to see the fortress from the high mountain portion. 

“Ara?” 

Kurumi encountered a group that seemed to be training for scouting. Kareha’s personality likely assisted in the leisurely foundation. Banouin’s soldiers gave the impression of calm behavior. 

But these girls had a crisp single file walking style with a severe expression marked on their faces. 

“……” 

Silence. The Quasi-Spirit thought to be the captain stared at Kurumi with razor sharp eyes. With a bitter smile, Kurumi intended to explain she was a guest of Banouin Kareha. 

“How rude, I am??” 

At that moment, someone raised an arm to give instructions without waiting for her to speak. 

And there was one problem. Their Unsigned Angels weren’t set up as water guns at all, but rather as lethal weapons set to kill……! 

“Ara.” 

So that must mean they are rebels rather than being part of Banouin’s forces. Slightly troubled, Kurumi slanted her head. After all, these current weapons could still prove fatal. They must have come here for reconnaissance before the war began. 

Nevertheless, since they were holding up weapons, Kurumi reflexively lifted up her own weapon. 

Judging how much effort would be needed??Kurumi sighed and shot herself with the First Bullet <Aleph>, jumping while aiming her legs at the captain of those Quasi-Spirits. 

It was an artistic and beautiful drop kick. 

Alas, Kurumi didn’t care about the captain fainting as she dragged her along with one hand to throw as a weapon against the other Quasi-Spirits now standing motionlessly from shock. 

“Cistus, please take care of this.” 

“I know. Yes, yes. I have already taken plenty of care.” 

Accompanied by that voice, Kurumi’s shadow began to distort as a pure white arm appeared below the scouts’ feet. 

“Alright, boom!” 

With that lovely voice, the Quasi-Spirit was slammed onto the ground…….apparently her ankles had been grasped by both hands coming from the shadow and forcibly pulled downwards. 

“Gyabun!?” 

There was the rough sound of a face making a direct collision with the ground. One more person had passed out. The Quasi-Spirits that saw this hurriedly checked their feet??so this time Kurumi used a rolling spin kick linked with a summersault kick to send them flying. 

By the time Kurumi gently wiped the dust off her skirt, everyone else had either fainted or was groaning quietly. 

“……Maybe I overdid a little too much.” 

“But if you gone too easy on them wouldn’t that risk the chance of injury?” 

Cistus had a legitimate point. If either side sustained grievous injuries, it would no longer be a fun war game. 

“……Now then, should we move them back to say hello to these rebels?” 

“Is that possible?” 

“I don’t mind providing free-loader service, but if the war is going to start soon immediately……perhaps we shouldn’t.” 

“A war always starts with a single bullet~” 

Cistus’s allegations were very reasonable. But if possible, Kurumi still wanted to see the rebel side. 

Hibiki and Carte should be on the other side, and there was even a slim chance they were under an emergency. Incidentally, she could go to help break them out. 

“……Hmm. I see.” 

Cistus nodded, but her expression showed disappointment. 

“What’s the matter?” 

“No, it is necessary to confirm if Higoromo-san is over there. And if she wants to leave, there should be help provided for her escape. But there is one more possibility of this. The fact that me is missing……” 

“?” 

As Kurumi slanted her head, Cistus muttered out a “well, it is fine” as she threw the fainted Quasi-Spirits into the shadows. 

“For now, let’s release them after crossing over to the other side.” 

For the time being, Kurumi returned to the fortress and requested a rubber boat to cross the shore. 

Despite knowing that she was being treated as a guest, hearing that she wanted to travel to the other side caused the Quasi-Spirits to express worried looks at her. While they were still reluctant, Kurumi managed to get their approval after stating she wasn’t heading there looking for a fight. 

“So, I’ll be heading out now.” 

“Be careful……” 

The Quasi-Spirits saluted three times. 

“Let’s go~” 

Kurumi replied in a leisurely tone as she started the engine of the rubber boat. 

“But for the sea, it’s too hot out for this outfit. I’ll need to change clothes soon.” 

“Ah, I also want a swimsuit too.” 

“I think it would be ideal to plan on summoning one more Tokisaki Kurumi clone…….” 

 

“Run! Keep running and running! Endurance is very important during war!” 

“Yes sir!” 

“Fine! I’ll treat you to crepes if you all run safely!” 

“Great, Captain Hibiki is the best!” 

“Ahaha, yes speak the truth!” 

“I see as usual, you all are peerless at being cheeky……everyone must keep running! If you are slower than my flat self, then there will be a punishment game!” 

“Ace of Spades is the devil!” 

“Being a devil is fine, I am a playing card!” 

Hibiki had trained her squad with the highest level of training and the lowest amount of dropouts. 

General Jugasaki praising her made her even more successful. 

Right now Hibiki had the rank of Major and was spearheading a squad with over 40 members. 

“Whew, this reminds me of when I was an idol producer as Hibi P……” 

“You’ve done everything……” 

Of course, she didn’t treat those Quasi-Spirits as pawns even after her success. 

While talking to everyone with an “I understand”, she agreed, affirmed, advised, and guided each one of them. 

Thanks to this, all forty members were morally enthusiastic. They served as the role model which had won the admiration of the other battalions. 

“Well, the day has finally arrived, Ace of Spades-san.” 

“Ah, so what about a swimsuit!” 

“What kind of swimsuit would look good on Major Hibiki?” 

“Cute style? Pure style? Glamorous style? 2D image style?” 

“Leaving out that last one, my foundation is being pure. Look, I am just like a lump of pureness!” 

Hearing Hibiki’s words, her soldiers all nodded. 

“That’s exactly how I see it as well, that’s right!” 

“Uuu. I’m so touched by Ace of Spade-san’s understanding……” 

It was the same for the idols she produced as well. She tended to gain respect from others as soon as she got things in shape. 

While she thought it was her special ability, it may just be part of her innate characteristics. 

“Now then, we are dissolved for today! War is coming soon, so do your best!” 

“Yes, ooh!” 

All forty of them responded in unison after raising their fists up the sky. 

……Incidentally, to put it plainly, Hibiki was enjoying her life as a rebel.” 

She was fully enjoying it. 

Well, the problem was here. Although that girl was sure she was okay, she was also worried with anger at Higoromo Hibiki being enlisted in the severe occupation of the military. How inversely proportional would her anger be now? 

“……Wow.” 

An eerie voice leaked from the girl. 

During wartime, all members must naturally change into a swimsuit. However, all outfits for those below the level of first-class private were uniforms. 

A navy blue swimsuit was completely lacking in feeling gorgeous. 

However, being at the level of leading her own squad, she could freely choose her swimwear. 

That was the superior’s privilege. 

Quasi-Spirits above the rank of lieutenant excitedly looked at swimsuit samples and chose to make adjustments to their Astral Dresses. 

“Ufufu, fufufu, Ace of Spades-san, look at this swimsuit……” 

“It’s gorgeous…….are you also going to choose for me!?” 

“Of course, we both became superior officers at the same time!” 

“However, I am only a Sergeant……in order to keep the army consolidated, Major Hibiki……no big sister.” 

“It seems that you can do whatever you want with superior privileges! Those diving into the same hell should be able to choose their own swimwear!” 

Ace of Spades began to seriously consider then. 

“What should I choose, maybe a blue pareo with something white underneath ? ” 

Hibiki was happily choosing a swimsuit. During this period, people who longed for Hibiki as a big sister were smiling and talking to her. 

……Behind them, there was only one person sending a sharp gaze. 

“Ho??, ho??, ho?????……” 

So it turned out to be like this. 

It was the complete opposite of her expectations. 

“U-Um……Jugasaki-sama will meet you now.” 

A voice came from behind Kurumi. She had explained the story to a girl on patrol after safely crossing the sea. 

Seeing the captain being taken out from the shadows, the Quasi-Spirit indeed confirmed she was one of the rebels and contacted Jugasaki. Of course, the girl told Kurumi to wait for a while, but Kurumi wasn’t the sort to obey that. 

Along with Cistus, she looked around the rebel’s hideout. 

……How could she describe it, the atmosphere felt like a mix between a school festival and a sports festival. For example, there were soldiers running around in sportswear. Besides that, there was a girl squealing while choosing a swimsuit. 

“It’s almost time for war.” “I’ll have to do my best not to run away immediately.” “Um??which swimsuit is good?” “Do you remember the battle plan?” 

And the conversation went on so forth. 

Compared to Banouin Castle which was busy getting ready, they looked like they were having a lot of fun. 

……While she worried about searching here, she must have been enjoying herself. 

“U-Um……” 

Once again, the Quasi-Spirit mumbled. 

Finally, Kurumi turned around and revealed an alluring smile that would pull someone in at just the first meeting. 

“Yes, I’ll go.” 

Cistus had already evacuated into the shadows, trying not to get into trouble. 

After entering the tent, Jugasaki Retsumi, who was planning an operation while looking at the map, looked back at her. 

“So you are Banouin’s guest?” 

“Yes, that’s right. Well then, I’ll be returning this back first.” 

From the shadows, people were rolling out just like balls and piling up within the tent. 

This sloppy approach, of handling this mysterious phenomenon of taking out people from the shadows, caused noise to spread throughout their surroundings. 

Jugasaki glanced at them. 

“So they were really sneaking about?” 

“And they also raised a gun at me with no questions asked. Are you planning on starting a fight where we’re trying to kill each other?” 

Jugasaki silently flicked her finger between the captain’s eyebrows. 

“……” 

As the captain tried to stand up to confirm the situation, her face immediately started turning pale. 

“So you were going to try and kill Banouin’s side?” 

“N-No! That wasn’t it!” 

The captain hastily shook her head to deny this. 

“Then, what about that gun?” 

“T-That was……force of habit……I didn’t intend on using it……” 

“Really?” 

Kurumi interjected. 

“??Answer, Ensign Todou. Were you really going to kill Banouin?” 

The atmosphere of the venue had changed completely. 

The weight of the atmosphere was enough to even silence Kurumi. Jugasaki Retsumi was very angry. But Todou muttered in disapproval. 

“……But we are supposed to be killing each other.” 

“This is not killing. This is war.” 

“War means to kill each other!” 

“Not in this world!” 

Jugasaki refuted Todou’s words. The stunned team members woke up one after the other; grasping the situation they held out their guns to intimidate the surrounding Quasi-Spirits. 

“Injuring others will only accelerate our decline just like what is happening in the Tenth Region Malkuth. It’s important to win, but we mustn’t kill!” 

She lashed out her tongue at the Quasi-Spirit called Todou. 

After standing up, she glared at Jugasaki with sharp eyes in a manner that completely disagreed with her. 

“??What naivety. That’s why you keep losing.” 

Jugasaki was trembling with tears in her eyes. Seeing that expression, Todou’s face showed a hint of disdain. 

The surrounding Quasi-Spirits also lowered their faces. Perhaps noticing this, Todou summoned her Unsigned Angel??firmly grasping on her firearm. 

In this atmosphere that could explode at any moment, Kurumi blankly muttered. 

“……Then wouldn’t it be just fine to go to the Tenth Region Malkuth?” 

A very reasonable reply. 

If she really wanted to find a place to kill each other, Then, she should go to the Tenth Region Malkuth to kill as much as she wanted. 

“Isn’t that the perfect gathering place for people with abnormal minds? Yes, because I was once involved there as well.” 

Betrayal, conspiracy, deception, and slaughter, it was a place for unusual Quasi-Spirits that specialized in fighting. 

……Of course, the concept of death for Quasi-Sprits is weak and the hurdles for murder are low. 

If killed, they would fade into particles of light and disappear just like in a game world. 

However, the Tenth Region was clearly the farthest behind from the other regions that drew the line at killing. 

So if she really wanted to kill. 

She should just head to that region. 

“That’s??” 

Todou’s speech suddenly grew incoherent. 

“Ara, ara, what’s the matter. You’re making me think that you do want to go there. Could it be? 

You don’t want to go to the Tenth Region Malkuth because you are afraid?” 

Those words sparked Todou’s contempt just like having to listen to the foul teasing coming from a child. 

At the very moment Todou tried to counter with an attack, <Zafkiel> had already been pointed at between her eyebrows. 

“I don’t think there is anything terrible of wanting to kill each other. But everyone is trying to live in some shape or form in each region……I find that very commendable.” 

Todou bit her lip while shaking from the humiliation. 

Nevertheless, Kurumi’s assertion was certainly correct. If she wanted to kill each other, there was already a designated region for that. It was not that difficult to head to the Ninth Region Yesod and then to the Tenth Region Malkuth. 

But choosing not to go to the Tenth Region Malkuth meant being coward. 

Kurumi’s haughty demeanor left the coward speechless. 

“……Wait a minute, Tokisaki Kurumi.” 

However, at that moment there was someone who stopped Kurumi. It was Jugasaki, who replied with a sad look. 

“I don’t think what she was trying to do is right and I promise it won’t happen again, so please don’t blame Ensign Todou anymore. 

In response to that statement, Kurumi lowered <Zafkiel> while a little disappointed. 

Todou silently left the tent with her subordinates without giving a word of thanks. 

As Kurumi shrugged, Jugasaki let out a sigh. 

“I want to change the mood for a bit. Can you accompany me, Tokisaki Kurumi, the Third Spirit?” 

“??Well, I don’t particularly mind.” 

 

Todou breathed out a sigh of relief. She thought she was going to be killed for sure. That Tokisaki Kurumi was undoubtedly the genuine article. It was only because of the agreement in the Eighth Region Hod that she wasn’t killed. But if someone were to attack her, she would respond immediately back with lethal force. 

They had survived solely because of her whims. The difference in power was simply too vast. 

“Second Lieutenant…..no, Captain……” 

“We failed. Already there’s nothing that can be done.” 

It was already no longer possible to infiltrate the rebels. Moreover, this grudge held against Tokisaki Kurumi meant she would become likely be an enemy in the future. 

“……But there is still a chance. Crossing that sea again, when the war begins, the opportunity would surely come. I’ll have the chance to kill her.” 

Who cares if it means been spoken ill of? 

Even they liked the Eighth Region Hod. They didn’t want to disturb this peaceful region. But the current situation was the worst. With the White Queen, the countless Empty had gradually become unreliable. 

“……For sure, I’m going to crush Banouin Kareha. I’m going to dispose of that fallen traitor……!” 

 

In the past it used to be more innocent contests. 

Jugasaki muttered out little by little. Although this region had been divided into two halves by the sea since the very beginning, the games themselves started out as innocent competition like racing or hide-and-seek. 

There was stuff related to studying and even an all you can eat contest was held. 

Just……little by little, it gradually became more aggressive. 

The Quasi-Spirits that fled from the Tenth Region Malkuth also brought along the values from the Tenth Region. 

In the Ninth Region Yesod, popularity as an idol is absolute??in that case the values were too far apart. But the Tenth Region Malkuth and the Eighth Region Hod share similar values. 

……So the battles grew more and more intense. 

Many were injured and some had disappeared. Some people recognized defeat and turned into Empties. 

It was around that time. 

Banouin Kareha brought the water gun rules to form a healthy pretend war. 

But then she placed herself on the peak. Since then, they’ve fought time after time but Banouin Castle still hasn’t collapsed. 

“So that’s more or less the history between me and the detestable Banouin.” 

Kurumi walked besides Jugasaki while looking at her. Despite saying that she hated her, it seemed like she was having a lot of fun. 

So Kurumi had no worries about wanting to clarify that point. 

“You say that it’s awful, but you seem to be pretty happy.” 

“W-What! Leave me alone!” 

“……Are you very close to Banouin-san?” 

The response was very dramatic. 

“I don’t get along with her at all! She’s an abominable enemy! Truly vile! The lowest! The worst! 

An unpleasant weird woman that pretends to be rich! She never comes over here to even talk! Ah, awful. I get angry at the very thought of that woman!” 

Furious steps stomped onto the ground. 

Kurumi thought to herself if it was possible. 

Ah, did I step on a landmine? 

“She hasn’t even shown her face in the recent wars! Really, she’s cutting corners! What, while I’m obviously hard at work! Just thinking about that makes me angry!” 

It was a rant-inducing reply. 

“F-Forget that. Kareha-san must have her own considerations……” 

But without a doubt there were many sides of Banouin Kareha that aren’t quite understood. 

However, Kurumi didn’t think that her stature was terrible. She didn’t have the shallow black-heartedness of Momozono Mayuka that she met in the Ninth Region Yesod, nor did she have the cruelty of the White Queen. 

She was Quasi-Spirit with a slightly odd accent and refused to share the depths of her heart. 

Of course there must be a secret. Surely she must be hiding something. But, that was just an irrelevant passing matter for Kurumi. 

But that wasn’t the case for Jugasaki Retsumi. 

“You too! Why is she sheltering you!? Are you her ally!?” 

She abruptly pointed in her finger at Kurumi in her unreasonable anger. 

“Like I said before, as a guest??” 

“Yeah, thinking it over calmly, aren’t you also the enemy! Why are you here!?” 

“Didn’t I already explain it at the very beginning!? I came specifically to bring back your soldiers that crossed over the sea! I!” 

“Then of course you are the enemy! You’re already participating in the war!” 

“That’s??” 

This strange timing caused Kurumi to remember about Higoromo Hibiki. 

In spite of her all of her worries, her own anger at Hibiki who was having fun with all of the soldiers here……! 

“Yes, I will participate. I am just an enemy.” 

“Then let’s do it! You’ll have the same price as Banouin Kareha??a bounty on your head!” 

“You’re giving me a bounty……!?” 

Jugasaki smiled as she revealed a piece of paper. Kurumi’s face emerged on the light brown paper while a number was shown further down. It looked straight out from western play. 

“Rejoice! Your value in gold is as high as that scoundrel Kareha!” 

“……Um, sorry. What does this ALIVE OR ALIVE mean? Shouldn’t it normally be DEAD OR 

ALIVE?” 

“No, you’re not allowed to kill people after all.” 

“Huh……” 

Her tone relaxed, but then she recognized how troublesome it would be for her to actually be defeated. 

“Then, I’ll hurry along back now.” 

“Really? Isn’t there someone that you wanted to meet or are searching for?” 

“……No, there is none. Because even if, she seems happy here.” 

“U-Umu. Don’t overdo it; this is the Eighth Region Hod.” (Basically a pun that gets lost in translation. The ordinal Japanese part starts out with the phrase hodo hodo nina) Kurumi began pulling on Jugasaki’s cheeks without hesitation. 

“Fu ~afufunfa!” (What are you doing?) 

“My apologizes, I didn’t assume you were the type to tell such a silly joke.” 

In this manner, Kurumi crossed the sea again and returned back to Banouin castle. 

“,,,,,,Mu.” 

“What’s the matter, Major Hibiki?” 

“Ah, it’s nothing. I don’t why, but I suddenly felt the chills cover my body.” 

“Did you catch a cold?” 

“I haven’t had a cold since being born……” 

“Now, I have a bad feeling. For example, something like Kurumi-sama watching both of us laughing.” (Correct answer) 

“Wow that would be the worst!” 

“Of course we are also both hard at work. But if looking only at the current situation, it would be enough to make her furious.” 

“Ahaha. But Kurumi-san seems to be over around Banouin’s side. After this war, let’s go over there to play!” 

“……Why does this feel like a death flag……?” 

Ace of Spades whispered to herself. 

 

Now, it was time for war. 

Initially, Banouin followed the usual interception manual and made plans to counterattack at Banouin Beach. 

But her single guest insisted that she must at least make it past the barbed wire. 

While skeptical at first, her opinion was still adopted and that single guest was added to the team stationed at the fortress. 

A declaration of war had already been issued and Banouin estimated that the raid would take place within three days after the completion of their training. 

On the other side, Major Higoromo Hibiki argued that since the declaration of war had already been sent, there should be no issue. They should launch a fearless surprise attack on the morning before the end of their training. 

She managed to persuade Jugasaki who was reluctant, and so they planned for the surprise attack to be on the day before the end of their training. 

Well, that girl would at least consider that much. 

Moreover, the guest had diligently transformed <Zafkiel> into its water gun version. The quietly sandy night beach was the perfect place to move her hands while thinking. 

“Kurumi-sama.” 

Swish, Sagakure Yui suddenly appeared. 

“Ara. Uhh. You are……” 

Kurumi narrowed her eyes in surprise. It was a face that she had seen before. Kurumi immediately remembered that she was a Quasi-Spirit that had participating in the killing game in the Tenth Region Malkuth. ……Wait, she started to rethink. Indeed, she should have died during that time. 

“I am Sagakure Yui.” 

“……You, didn’t you die in the Tenth Region Malkuth?” 

“That happens a lot.” 

Yui seemed to want to end the explanation here. Like saying that she wouldn’t reveal any more, she handed her a large piece of cardboard. 

“Here are the blueprints for the swimsuit. By following this, there are no issues with making adjustments to your Astral Dress.” 

“Thank you.” 

Unlike the simple jersey-type Astral Dress used in the Ninth Region Yesod, this time it was an imaginative swimsuit Astral Dress. 

In order to avoid vulgarity, the colors were red and black. But the amount it left exposed was significant. 

If possible, there was the imagination of that person looking away while embarrassed. But then she thought, “That’s too stupid!” as if roasting herself. 

……Determining the degree of adjustments would be difficult. Being too delicate wouldn’t leave a lasting impression and being too sensual would attract too much lewd attention. 

“??Kurumi-sama. Are you sure they’ll launch a surprise attack tomorrow morning?” 

“Eh? Ah yes. I……can’t say with 100% certainty, but it should be around 60%.” 

Sure enough, after fighting alongside each other for so long, something like that would be easily seen through. 

As for Hibiki, she likely wouldn’t be able to predict this. Although she knew that Kurumi must be in Banouin’s territory, she couldn’t imagine Kurumi participating in this war. 

“Kurumi-san would find this too tedious, so even if provoked, that wouldn’t be enough to participate in this battle!” 

Such was the assertion laid out in front of Hibiki’s eyes. 

Well, it should be like this. If she were to participate, they would all be annihilated no matter how much water they used. 

However, however. 

“Fufu, fufufufu. I never imagine that I would be fighting seriously.” 

Unfortunately, Tokisaki Kurumi was also determined to take this in full earnest. 

Because Kurumi thought this would be the perfect chance to blow away this itchy feeling bothering her. Also, it’s been a while since she wanted to see the scene of Hibiki openly sobbing. 

“……What a twisted sense of love……” 

Yui muttered to herself. 

“This is not love. This is punishment.” 

“Well, regardless of what it is, if Kurumi-sama participates, it seems likely that the Banouin faction will win again……” 

“By the way Yui-san, Kareha-san doesn’t want to talk much about it, but are there detailed records of the region meeting?” 

“No, there are no records. It is impossible for us to know the contents of the meeting.” 

“I heard that??the White Queen appeared.” 

“Yes. In the process, suspicion arose on the Empty that were working behind the scenes. For that reason, we heard that the Empty have been confined or expelled in most of the regions. The Ninth Region Yesod and the Tenth Region Malkuth seem to have been neglected, but……” 

“……A difficult problem for sure……so then where are the Empty?” 

“They are Empty so there’s little room for emotions. They’ve basically docilely accepted these orders.” 

“The Empty I’ve seen in the Third Region Binah were truly abnormal……” 

“The Sixth Region Tiphereth has closed all of its gates except for the Seventh Region Netzach. If Kurumi-sama wishes to head to the First Region Keter, you must go from the Seventh Region to the Sixth Region, and then proceed further to either the Fifth Region or Fourth Region.” 

“Can’t I just jump to the Fifth Region from here?” 

“As you may have heard, the Fifth Region is adjacent to the Third Region Binah. So we have completely closed the gate from there to prevent any passage into the Eighth Region.” 

“……Ah, so passing here means having to go through the Ninth Region Yesod?” 

“Kareha-sama hasn’t mentioned that, but I believe that to be the case.” 

“Speaking of which, is Mizuha-san here as well?” 

“Yes. Kareha-sama said she didn’t want to see her, so I was informed to guide her to a separate room.” 

“She doesn’t want to see her……why would that be the case? Isn’t she her sister?” 

“Yes. Unusually, those two are real sisters.” 

Banouin Kareha and Banouin Mizuha became Quasi-Spirits at almost the same time. Mizuha only remembers having an older sister. Of course, since they’ve both stated this……Quasi-Spirits have come to except this. To that extent, those two could be considered “as if sisters”. 

“However, for Kareha-sama who has forgotten everything……Mizuha-sama may just be a self-identified sister.” 

Sagakure Yui sadly looked down. 

“Forgotten……” 

Kurumi slanted her head as Yui spoke. 

“Quasi-Spirits seem to have too many memory gaps……” 

The passing and experience of years (even she wasn’t sure how many days and months have passed here) have led to Quasi-Spirits understanding that they have come from the other world. 

But their levels of memories tended to differ. There are people who remember nothing and others who can recall only a little. 

Although Banouin Mizuha understood that Kareha was her older sister, she lacked almost any other memories. 

Kareha had said that she doesn’t remember anything. 

When they first arrived here, they often acted together. But since Kareha has become the Dominion of Hod, she has cut off virtually all form of contact between them. 

It was almost as if abandoning her own sister. 

Fortunately, Mizuha soon found her calling as an idol??and soon rose to the high position Dominion as well. 

“Hmm, that’s strange. Could one simply sigh and accept this treatment?” 

Anyone abandoned like that would normally have to choose between despair and anger. 

At the same time, no matter how she thought about it, Mizuha wasn’t the type to use anger as motivation. 

“……Who knows, I don’t know much about them either.” 

Yui had a painful look on her face. 

As Kurumi was polishing her swimsuit, she recalled about Banouin Mizuha. 

Well, she did seem like the sort of girl with a strong tendency to depend on others. Fortunately, Kirari Rinemu took up that role. Additionally the role of being Dominion also caused Mizuha to grow significantly. 

“If you have time to meet with Mizuha-sama……” 

“I will think about it.” 

Well, it didn’t matter too much to herself if these sisters had a good relationship or not. 

Rather than that, focus was given on terrifying Hibiki. Kurumi’s thoughts were preoccupied with that. 



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