Date A Live Fragment: Date A Bullet - Volume 4 - Chapter 6

Blooming Fervently in Full Glory 

When Banouin Kareha first arrived in the Neighboring World, she didn’t remember it. She just remembered that her last name was Banouin and her little sister was Mizuha. And she was surrounded by her father, mother, grandfather, grandmother, and many servants……a blissful, luxurious life that could almost be described as boring. 

That’s all she remembered. 

In the Neighboring World, through terror, excitement, and restlessness, every day was lived to the fullest. 

……Sometimes she wanted to return to those boring days, but that feeling would be soon forgotten. 

She didn’t care about the past. The present was now more important. 

After fighting against a Quasi-Spirit in the Tenth Region Malkuth, she was caught in the Compile??engulfed by a dark memory. 

Kareha had no idea which Spirit this memory belonged to. 

It was the memory of a Spirit triggering a spacequake. There was a mountain of rubble as far as the eye could see, and a single girl standing alone. 

Although this memory short-lived, it gave Kareha’s memories a violent stimulation. 

The memories that should have been sealed were brought back to life. 

She had already died from a disaster. The cause of the disaster was unknown. It may have been an earthquake, spacequake, typhoon, or some other man-made accident. Well, the cause didn’t matter too much. 

After all, Kareha was crushed underneath the rubble and a fire had broken out. She understood that her father, mother, grandparents, and servants had all died. The diffused smoke was causing her to cough. At the same time, she understood, “ah, so this is a dead end.” 

“Sister??!” 

Her little sister kept crying, trying to pull her out of the rubble while shouting “No, no.” 

“Don’t do this, you have to run away.” 

Despite wanting to say that, her throat was trembling but her voice wouldn’t come out. It seemed that her lungs had been crushed. 

God, God. 

I may die in this completely helpless manner. 

But in that case, at least leave a way for my little sister Mizuha to survive. 

If she were to die a meaningless death, at least??give her a meaningful life. 

So, with certainty, she had died then. 

However, after opening her eyelids, she found that they were in a different world. Mizuha was openly crying with a tear-stained face, but she didn’t seem to know why. 

But there was one thing that they both knew. 

They weren’t humans, but rather an existence called Quasi-Sprits??it was only that. 

“As soon as I remembered, the emptying process began.” 

“Because you realized you died……?” 

Confronted by Kurumi’s question, Kareha weakly replied. 

“I don’t know……perhaps that’s the case. After all, there are not many Quasi-Spirits like me who can remember what happened before death. Even if there is, they usually gather in the Tenth Region Malkuth.” 

The Tenth Region Malkuth was different from the Eighth Region Hod, a region where killing was clearly required. It was a place where Quasi-Spirits couldn’t live without walking on the boundary between life and death. 

“……So if you go to the Tenth Region Malkuth……” 

There was still hope. As long as she continued killing there without being killed, there is the possibility of survival. 

“Hmm. But, I already understand. My dedication towards life hasn’t reached the point where I would keep killing until being killed. And one more thing, I want that……I despise that.” 

“What do you hate?” 

“……I don’t want to say it. Even if I don’t say it, you should know by now.” 

As if giving up, Kareha laughed. 

“So, I’ve decided to die here. ……Is that fine?” 

After a long silence, Kurumi slowly shook her head. 

“I’m not qualified to give any permission for this. This is your choice Kareha-san. ……But there is one thing that I need you to do. You need to save Jugasaki-san.” 

“What happened to Retsu-chan?” 

“She’s in a coma. If you don’t have the strongest connection to Jugasaki-san, she will probably die.” 

Hearing those words caused Kareha to sigh. 

“……I have to save her. Please take me there. Ah, but before that……” 

“Before that?” 

Kareha shrugged. 

“Can you help heal my injuries?” 

“Yes, of course (gunshot).” 

Kurumi smirked and pulled the trigger. The bullet fired was the Fourth Bullet <Dalet>. Although her injuries were repaired, Kareha widened her eyes in surprise. 

“What kind of person shoots while she is talking!?” 

“When using the Fourth Bullet <Dalet>, I wanted to be scary. It was just a mischievous prank.” 

“I ask you to stop before going to far.” 

Kareha lightly tapped Kurumi’s proud head with her fan. 

“You’re truly incomprehensible.” 

“Don’t fret, you have to hurry.” 

“Incidentally, Hibiki-san is always saying, “Please don’t shoot! You absolutely can’t shoot!?” 

But as a matter of course, I always aim for her brows. I don’t know why she stares angrily at me after that.” 

“Ah, that’s for sure. It’s the same with me. That definitely would never work.” 

“Right? I haven’t done anything wrong.” 

“No, I meant you’ve done something wrong.” 

The two of them looked at each other and couldn’t stop laughing. 

“……It feels strange how we get along.” 

“Why? I’m obviously not the type to make friends.” 

“What about Retsu-chan?” 

Kareha turned away with a bashful face. 

“That girl……look, she is. A close friend, a comrade, a companion, something like that.” 

“Ah, you’re trying to make a distinction somehow.” 

“Isn’t Higoromo-san the same for you?” 

“……No, not really. Hibiki-san doesn’t exist that way for me.” 

“Hmm……” 

Kareha’s sensible expression caused Kurumi to feel a bit uncomfortable. So she lightly kicked her. Naturally, Kareha retaliated back. 

The two of them kicked back and forth to the point of a cat fight breaking out. But realizing that now wasn’t the time for this; they ended the meaningless scuffle and quickly set off. 

Seeing Kareha and Kurumi flying over to the castle, Hibiki and the others expressed their relief. 

“Sister!” 

“Ah, Mizuha. I’ll talk to you later.” 

Kareha stroked Mizuha’s head and approached Jugasaki. Mizuha froze in place. She felt overwhelmed by both being left out and having her head stroked again. 

“So she’s been sleeping ever since then, this slacker.” 

Kareha lightly smiled while pinching Jugasaki’s nose. 

“Alright……Higoromo-san, what should I do? Is there anything necessary?” 

“It’s fine. All you need is my Unsigned Angel.” 

Hibiki summoned her Unsigned Angel to her right hand??<King Killing>. The surroundings were ruffled by the evil look of those huge claws. 

“Ah, although it looks fierce, it’s basically not for attacking!” 

While speaking, Hibiki held Kareha’s hand with her right hand. 

“There’s not much time, so let’s infiltrate Jugasaki’s mind as soon as possible. That being said, she looks like she simply lost consciousness in my opinion.” 

“Understood. Alright, Retsu-chan, I’m here to save you.” 

“Kareha-san, good luck. ……No, rather than saying that. Please treasure your own heart.” 

Under the watch of everyone, <King Killing> touched Jugasaki’s chest. 

“Connected to the core of Jugasaki Retsumi??let’s go!” 

As those words came to an end, the surrounding landscape became distorted. The memories rotated in reverse at a furious momentum. 

Everything that constituted Jugasaki Retsumi, her creed, character, philosophy, all sorts of cherished things?? 

Kareha jumped into it all. 

The starting point. 

Alone, empty and scared, standing at a bus stop with no clear destination. 

Her name had disappeared. 

Neighboring World, Quasi-Spirit, bestowed with an Astral Dress and Unsigned Angel. 

The rain never stopped and there was no destination. 

So where should I go? 

“Come here, here.” 

A girl appeared and pulled her hand. She learned what was necessary to live in this Neighboring World and learned how to fight. 

Ah, but I don’t have a name. 

Even with an Astral Dress and Unsigned Angel, there was no sense of self?? 

“If you don’t care, let me give you a name.” 

With those words, she gave me all that I wanted to do. 

There was a steady stream of guilt. 

Because the name I gave you was merely on a whim. I lightly gave your life a direction. There was nothing more sinful than this. 

You don’t need to thank me for anything. Because someone else would have given you a more appropriate name. 

So please don’t look at me with such touching eyes. 

You should embrace a better life. 

Intermediate point. 

The girl who gave me my name, for some reason always seemed so lonely. 

She is strong. Everyone, including her little sister, respects her. While arrogant, there was also elegance. 

But why, why, does she seem so lonely? 

So, while it was embarrassing, I wanted to be her friend. 

I wanted to fill up that loneliness even if for a little. 

Really, she allowed for people to feel embarrassed. 

If you ask me, that girl was just like a sunflower. 

Beautiful like a jewel and shining brightly during summer. 

Competing with you, understanding you, and talking to you. 

And each time she glowed. I really think there is no better person to lead the Eighth Region Hod. 

No jealousy, just happiness and pride. 

Dead end. 

……What should I do? What should I fight? 

I already noticed in my heart. I can never see her again. 

In that case, I have no meaning to survive. 

“……You’re a fool.” 

Hearing that leisurely voice, Jugasaki hurriedly turned around. 

“……Kareha-chan?” 

Someone she wanted to meet, to compete against, to not lose to, the girl that she didn’t want to feel lonely was standing in front of her. 

“Go back, Retsu-chan.” 

She slightly tilted her head while holding onto that hand. 

“Why are you here?” 

“Because of a mysterious phenomenon.” 

“Like that, so it is that mysterious?” 

Jugasaki quickly accepted Kareha’s statement. Since Kareha said it was mysterious, it should be mysterious. 

“But……are you okay? Can we get along again?” 

“……Just for a bit, we can still get along.” 

“How much is a bit?” 

“You really are obstinate……let me think. Let’s go play together.” 

“Hmm, that’s not enough.” 

“Do you want to stay overnight?” 

“If you want to do that, let’s stay together all day! That’ll be more fun!” 

“Well, if it’s only that, it should be fine.” 

“After that, let’s play together!” 

This caused a brief silence between the two. Jugasaki, feeling her request was a bit intrusive, gazed on at Kareha’s expression while trembling a bit. 

Banouin Kareha had an expression that looked like a mix of crying and laughter for a moment. 

But after seeing Jugasaki sulk, she covered her mouth with her folding fan and chuckled. 

“……Yes. Let’s always play together. If that’s the case, can you go back?” 

“Huh, go back……how do I go back?” 

“Hmm, I don’t know. Can you go back if you wish to return?” 

“Eh, how could it be that easy……” 

“No, even if it feels too casual, please leave as soon as possible!” 

Suddenly, someone squeezed in to interrupt them. 

“Ah, Higoromo-san.” “Oh, Colonel Higoromo!” 

“Will you both please work harder? In the inner part of the mind, I can’t solve this problem! 

Look over there!” 

The two of them looked at the direction where Hibiki pointed. Both of them tilted their heads at the sight. 

“Uh, is the ground crumbling?” 

“Also, it feels like something is approaching.” 

As if it were jelly or pudding crushed by a spoon, there were large fissures on the ground. 

“Yes, because I am usurping Jugasaki-san’s personality and mind. So, uh, that’s just like a metaphor? If swallowed by that crack……I will really become Jugasaki-san in reality.” 

“……Y-You guys were trying something this crazy??!?” 

“So I want to stop as soon as possible! I didn’t mean to become Jugasaki-san at all!” 

“U-Uhh, then what should I do!?” 

Hibiki grabbed Jugasaki’s confused shoulders and spoke while shaking her. 

“Fly into the sky!” 

“Fly where!?” 

“Anyway, please keep going up. If the surface of the mind rises, then I will be forcefully blown away!” 

“I-I see……Kareha-chan, let’s hurry together.” 

“Ah, um. Then Higoromo-san, we’ll fly up now.” 

Jugasaki and Kareha softly floated in the air. Jugasaki flew straight up as instructed. 

“Wow, so this is my head! It’s a mess!” 

Jugasaki giggled happily. 

“It’s my first time experiencing flying in someone else’s mind, but……Retsu-chan’s head looks like a trash can flipped upside down.” 

“What was that? Kareha-chan’s head must be quite like this as well.” 

“Which one would that be? There must be a beautiful scene within my head.” 

Carefully organized, painted pure white, and empty?? 

“Then, I’m going to bother and make a mess there.” 

“……That, might sound interesting. Do you want to mess me up?” 

Kareha laughed. Jugasaki’s face flushed red upon hearing that. With her being surprisingly innocent, she was very weak coping in regards to that issue. 

“W-What is that really, I’m not good in that.” 

“Right. You are still an oboko.” 

“Oboko. What is that, the name of a weapon?” 

“Well, just ask Mizuha. That child actually very much resembles that word.” 

“Ah, yes! I remembered! Will I be the Dominion when I wake up!?” 

“Yes.” 

“Isn’t there a bunch of things to do!?” 

“I would assume so.” 

“Won’t there be any spare time for having fun?” 

“Hmm, well can’t you give priority to have fun first? After all, haven’t you been working hard until now?” 

After listening to what Kareha had said, Jugasaki looked confused for a moment, but then quickly nodded in agreement. 

“Yeah, there are times where one wouldn’t be condemned for take a small break!” 

“Yes, of course, of course.” 

“Then, after waking??let’s have some fun!” 

“……Hmm. Let’s have lots of fun. But there is one problem.” 

As Jugasaki looked confused, Kareha continued on. 

“Weren’t you scared after seeing how I looked?” 

Kareha said that with her tone less confident than usual. 

Gradually, the color of the sky began to change. Night was over and dawn had arisen. The golden morning light began to dye Jugasaki’s world. 

“……How beautiful.” 

“I-I’m beautiful!?” 

“No. ……I meant the scenery.” 

“Ah, so it was that.” 

“What’s wrong? Do you want me to praise you for being pretty and cute?” 

Jugasaki, who had been silent for a moment, whispered. 

“……Yes. Even I……would like to be praised like that……” 

“Haha. Are you referring to the person from the legends?” 

“The person from the legends? Is that the rumor of the person who is sometimes seen during the Compile? Isn’t that a hoax?” 

“It doesn’t seem to be a rumor. That Tokisaki-san seems to be chasing after that person from the legends.” 

“Eh!? No, hold on. Isn’t that boy in the other world!?” 

“That’s right. Because of this, Tokisaki-san has been traveling across the different regions of the Neighboring World. If she can perhaps reach the First Region Keter, maybe she’ll be able to return to the other world?” 

“……To do that would be completely nuts! That Tokisaki is amazing!” 

“Yes. That’s what it’s like to be in love.” 

A single sigh. 

Jugasaki looked up in the sky and whispered. 

“Hey??will we also be able to fall in love?” 

“I suppose it’s possible? ……Although I’m not in love with anyone yet.” 

“You are a lonely person, Kareha-chan.” 

“I don’t think it matters. Ah, the exit should be coming up.” 

Jugasaki looked up as well. The sky that glowed white past the golden sky was infinite. 

Intuitively, Jugasaki understood that this was the end. 

“Alright, let’s wake up together!” 

“It’s because of you that I’ve had such a hard time??” 

Reaching out to touch the sky, it was like holding a film of air. After pressing hard against it, the film suddenly burst. With that, both of them had finally noticed. It seemed that they had both been underwater until now. 

Eyes being open. 

Jugasaki steadily stood up and found her hand being firmly held by Kareha. Additionally, Hibiki, who had been sleeping on Kurumi’s knees, also woke up. But wanting to take advantage of this situation, she laid tightly on Kurumi’s legs while pretending to be asleep. 

“Kareha-chan……” 

“Retsu-chan……good morning.” 

Looking at her pure white long hair, Jugasaki broke into tears. 

On the other hand, Kareha happily laughed while fidgeting with her long hair. 

“Does white hair look good on me?” 

“……It is fine, isn’t it?” 

“No problem at all.” 

Listening to the conversation between the two, Kurumi slightly turned away. Her voice was so persuasive that even Kurumi, who knew about it, could be convinced. 

Kareha was trying her best to weave a lie. And to this, Jugasaki was?? 

“Great!” 

Jugasaki screamed while hugging Kareha. An innocent smile and joy, it seemed Jugasaki honestly believed her from the bottom of her heart. 

“Then let’s play! Where should we go first!” 

“Anywhere is fine, but shouldn’t you change clothes first?” 

“Huh? Ah, I am wearing pajamas. Okay, I’ll change into an Astral Dress, wait for me for a bit! 

We are going to have so much fun starting from today!” 

Jugasaki jumped out of the futon while full of energy. 

“Higoromo-san, Mizuha. Although I’m a bit embarrassed, can I have fun for a bit? Anyway, if I were here, the situation would grow even more complicated.” 

“Y-Yes. I don’t mind??” 

“Alright Mizuha!” 

Jugasaki changed clothes and came back in no time. She leaned over Mizuha’s shoulder and asked her innocently. 

“What is an oboko?” 

“Obo……obo!?” 

Mizuha looked confused as her face flushed red. As Hibiki secretly laughed while still pretending to be asleep, Kurumi pinched her cheeks. 

“Oh. Kareha-chan told me that Mizuha can tell me more about it.” 

“Sister!?” 

“It’s fine, it’s fine. You should tell her. As a Dominion, it’s necessary to receive this education, right?” 

“Hmm? Is it something difficult to say?” 

“No, it’s not difficult……Jugasaki-san, listen.” 

Mizuha gently whispered into Jugasaki’s ears. 

“Oboko is……whether or not you are experienced in sexual matters.” 

Jugasaki’s face turned completely red after she heard that. 

“Kareha????????????????????!” 

“Ahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!” 

Kareha loudly laughed as Jugasaki chased after her. 

This issue had come to an end. The surrounding people must have thought of it like that. But Kareha didn’t think so and neither did Kurumi. 

But what about Jugasaki? She was smiling so innocently, so it was impossible to tell. After a moment of hesitation, Kurumi decided to tell Hibiki the truth. Pulling on her sleeves, both of them exited the castle. Afterwards, both of them went to a teahouse that was open for business. 

After being greeted by the clerk, she listened to their request of being left alone to talk. 

“Um……so what’s wrong?” 

“Kareha-san’s transformation into becoming an Empty is unlikely to have stopped.” 

“??Huh?” 

Hibiki lowered her head with a stunned look, turning pale as she understood the meaning behind Kurumi’s words. 

“H-How can it be!? Shouldn’t have it been already resolved……!?” 

“Not yet. Kareha-san’s emptying hasn’t stopped. I’m afraid sooner or later she will become an Empty.” 

“But the progress should have stopped……” 

“In order to achieve that, she has to keep fighting with her life at stake. However, Kareha-san has rejected this method. And she neither wants to turn the Eighth Region Hod into a battlefield like the Tenth Region Malkuth nor does she intend to head to the Tenth Region Malkuth.” 

“Why……if she heads to the Tenth Region Malkuth with her ability……she should be able to even become Dominion.” 

“……About that point.” 

Kurumi also didn’t know the reason. Only, she could vaguely understand the truth. 

Perhaps, she?? 

“Anyway, I can’t stop Kareha-san anymore. And what’s even more troublesome is her authority as a Dominion.” 

“……There’s the possibility of being used by the White Queen……?” 

“Yes, yes. I’m also worried about that. Kareha-san has likely also considered this. So??” 

“……Does that mean choosing self-destruction? How can that be!” 

Hibiki loudly stood up from the teahouse chair. Kurumi also felt troubled. Despite it not being related to herself, she still felt helpless. 

Die or kill. 

If that choice was in front of Kurumi, she wouldn’t hesitate on deciding to kill. 

But that would be her choice as Tokisaki Kurumi. ……She didn’t think it would be right to force this path onto Kareha. 

“But that’s wrong.” 

“Isn’t it not up to us to decide?” 

“……” 

Hibiki lowered her face. 

“Isn’t there……anything……a way……” 

As Hibiki whispered that, Kurumi grabbed her hand and sadly asked. 

“I wanted to ask you. Is there any other way to save her? For example, something that would change her reason for living.” 

“That……I don’t know.” 

“Like everyone else……Mizuha-san and Kirari-san, like how they can calmly live in the Ninth Region Yesod?” 

“That’s also……” 

Hibiki mumbled something unclear to herself in regret. 

“……I think probably Kareha-san has already tried many attempts. So likely she came to this conclusion after all those various attempts.” 

Even Kareha wouldn’t have given up at the very beginning. 

As a Dominion, she should have obtained a lot of information. And on that basis, she had drawn such a conclusion. 

“At least if she can live in the Tenth Region Malkuth……no, that’s no good. There are individual differences even for Quasi-Spirits living in the Tenth Region Malkuth. From what you’ve said, Kareha’s transformation into an Empty is quite severe……it’s a miracle she’s still survived to this day.” 

Both of Hibiki’s hands were shaking. 

Not just another person, Hibiki was also once an Empty. 

“Most importantly, Kareha-san herself doesn’t want to fight in the Tenth Region Malkuth. No, it’s more complicated than that. Although it is necessary to kill in order to survive, she has refused to use killing as means of survival.” 

Kurumi remembered Kareha’s weak smile. Although fighting against Kurumi to her fullest extent allowed her to stay in the Neighboring World for a little bit longer……it was impossible for her to keep fighting Kurumi forever. 

No, nothing could be done??they were completely stuck. 

“……Anyway, we need to watch them……” 

“There seems to be nothing else that can be done……” 

Hibiki and Kurumi both let out a sigh. 

The cicadas began chirping again. Although it was a rich summer instrument, it felt particularly noisy right now. 

“……Kareha-san has been suffering alone all this time.” 

“From what she’s said……it seems like it.” 

Even a close friend……no she couldn’t tell her because of being a close friend. 

“Hey, Colonel Higoromo and Tokisaki Kurumi????!” 

Both of them jumped out of their chairs. 

Looking back, it was Jugasaki. Behind her, Kareha was standing quietly. 

“Hey, hey! Banouin Castle??ah no, that’s not it anymore. Even though the castle is now under my jurisdiction, it’s temporarily being managed by Mizuha. So, Kareha-chan seems to have a villa. I want to go play there for a while, how about it!?” 

So she was asking for Hibiki and Kurumi’s opinions. 

Both of them looked at each other and nodded in agreement. 

“Okay, let’s do it now! Let’s enjoy this summer vacation!” 

Jugasaki raised her fist. 

As Kareha was looking at Jugasaki, Kurumi and Hibiki looked away without being able to respond. 

“I’m so excited??!” 

Jugasaki’s scream echoed in the teahouse. 

Kareha couldn’t help but smile as she poked Jugasaki’s cheeks. 

It was hard to imagine her becoming an Empty while being so energetic now. For a moment, Hibiki thought that she had misunderstood what Kurumi had said. 

She thought Kareha was pulling a prank and wouldn’t turn into an Empty. 

However, Kareha gently placed her finger against her lips after intersecting eyes with Hibiki. 

Then, she laughed weakly behind Jugasaki. The moment she saw that smile, Hibiki understood. 

Ah, she’s finished. 

She reached her end point a long time ago. 

“Okay, let’s go to my villa. You guys are both welcome.” 

A villa sounded nice, but it was actually a building full of old Japanese homes. 

Kareha inform them while putting on airs, “it is very distinguishable”. Jugasaki pleasantly responded with, “at least it’s more humane than that castle”. 

“Ah, the bathroom is huge and clean. That’s pretty impressive.” 

Kurumi peered into bathroom and nodded with satisfaction. 

“The water facilities are the latest equipment. There are no bugs in the Neighboring World, so it’s fine to leave the door open. In the real world, being on the veranda would mean centipedes, beetles, and stink bugs flying around and mosquitos out for blood, which is very troublesome……” 

“Centipedes can’t fly, right?” 

“Falling down from the ceiling is like flying.” 

“Ugh.” 

Kurumi felt her back tremble a bit from imagining that. Regardless of being a Quasi-Spirit or Spirit, there was no one that wouldn’t be intimated by a falling centipede. 

“Compared to that, I can’t sleep without a bed.” 

“There are futons. A bed would match the décor of this house. Would you allow this?” 

“Kurumi-san, Kurumi-san, if possible, I want to sleep in the shape of a ? character.” 

“As for me, if I feel my chastity is in danger, I will subconsciously pull the trigger on <Zafkiel>. 

So if you want to……” 

“Please let me withdraw my previous statement!” 

“Because there are four people, why not sleep in the shape of a ? character?” 

“That would mean two people across……and two other people on bottom will be supporting them……very interesting, I recommend Hibiki-san be on bottom.” 

“That would be too heavy! No, not heavy, Kurumi-san is as light as an angel’s wings, sir!” 

Hibiki gave in under the torture of <Zafkiel> being pressed against her cheeks. 

“Alright, if we do that, I’ll be on top! Kareha-chan looks heavier!” 

“No, you would be heavier.” 

“Ah?” “Hm?” 

Jugasaki and Kareha looked at each other. Even for their closest friend in the world, there should be a line where neither side could afford to concede. 

“Who is heavier, wouldn’t that be decided in a single shot through a weight scale?” 

Then, Tokisaki Kurumi, who gladly poured oil into this fire, pulled out an old scale from the washroom. 

“Okay, then whose going first?” 

“Me! Let me go first!” 

Jugasaki took off her coat and socks and gently sat on the scale. Unfortunately, weight was the most important secret for a Quasi-Spirit. To phrase it in an acceptable manner, Jugasaki frowned upon finding that the number was a bit off from her ideal. 

“Next up is me. ……Ha!” 

Kareha laughed fearlessly as she took off her Astral Dress. 

“Eh!?” 

“Up to that much!?” 

“Losing a battle in weight would be a hopeless failure!” 

Kareha, who was all but naked, stood on the scale. To repeat it again, weight is the most important secret for a Quasi-Spirit. If using linguistic expression, one could see that Kareha had a proud smile on her face while looking at the number from the scale. 

“Gagagaga, give me another chance!” 

Jugasaki also took off her clothes. However, while both were fighting-type Quasi-Spirits, Jugasaki’s toned muscles from fierce exercise were different from Kareha who exercised moderately. 

“How, come??” 

Height and body shape were both about the same, only weight was different. However, this was an absolute difference. 

Such a sad truth was revealed. 

Incidentally, Kurumi and Hibiki were also secretly weighed afterwards, with Kurumi having a proud look on her face afterwards. 

After playing with the scale for as much as possible, the four of them decided to clean the room first. 

“……In the Neighboring World, can’t we just reset what is inside?” 

“It’s more exciting this way Kurumi-san……” 

“I still have a certain attachment to this place. Please forgive me??” 

……As Kareha had advocated, the four of them started busily cleaning with the tools in their hands. 

Hibiki wonder for a while if this was okay. 

But, because they were relaxing so carefree like this??it was necessary to think of this again. 

Kareha’s attitude hadn’t changed much even though her hair had whitened. It looked like……she had no fear of disappearing. 

Was she determined or did she still have hope? 

Hibiki wished it for it to be the latter. But likely the other answer was correct. 

Banouin Kareha had already accepted her end. 

After they finished cleaning up, Kurumi and Hibiki went out for a stroll in the forest nearby the villa……calling out Cistus who was hiding in the shadows. Kareha and Jugasaki were preparing dinner together. Since four people in the kitchen would be crowding too much, they decided to alternate cooking between Kareha and Jugasaki together, and Kurumi and Hibiki. 

But after being called, Cistus said, “I have nothing to suggest”. 

While saying that, she shook her head. 

“Cistus, do you……agree with Kareha-san’s decision?” 

“Yes, yes. Although me would think to do whatever she likes, I recommend watching over both of them.” 

“But Cistus……” 

“Neither the Neighboring World or the world beyond are beautiful places. Have we learned the reason a long time ago?” 

She knew, she knew. 

Higoromo Hibiki had once fiercely devoted herself to revenge. Tokisaki Kurumi was here, surviving fierce battles one after the other while holding onto a terrible past. 

Conflict couldn’t be avoided in even the most peaceful Ninth Region Yesod. 

“Death and annihilation are inevitable concepts in the Neighboring World. And most of the time, it comes abruptly. So, if there is……the slightest possibility of allowing Kareha-san to feel a little bit better.” 

“That’s??” 

In the Tenth Region Malkuth, there were Quasi-Spirits that died in vain. 

Even the Ninth Region Yesod and Eighth Region Hod were no exceptions. 

One day, they wouldn’t be able to decide how they end. But for Kareha……she had decided her end for herself. 

Perhaps that should be the goal. 

To part ways just like this. 

So maybe Kareha’s approach was ideal after all. 

“……But, I still……” 

Something was still missing. Hibiki thought that there was something else not yet seen. 

“Isn’t it almost time for dinner? Please excuse me for this.” 

Cistus jumped into Kurumi’s shadows. Despite being the same as Tokisaki Kurumi, the principles and assertions were different from the moment of birth when her past was extracted. 

What’s more, the past Cistus had experienced was much different than even the other Kurumi. 

After that, Cistus stopped talking. 

Dinner was boiled eggplant, grilled fish, grilled pork, grated miso soup and white rice. 

“This is the first time in a while that I’ve made this, so how is it?” 

“Ah, this is delicious. Yup. White rice with ginger and followed up with miso soup……um, it’s very Japanese……!” 

“Hibiki-san, aren’t you Japanese?” 

“I am a relatively unknown nationality.” 

“I don’t think I’m Japanese anyway.” 

Jugasaki muttered to herself. 

“Do you want me to rename you right now?” 

“No, I like that name. After checking in a dictionary, Jugasaki means violence with guns, and Retsumi means beautiful. So it’s the perfect name to describe me!” 

“Sure, that’s a partial translation, but that does sound like a good name……” 

“Speaking of which, does the Kuru in Kurumi mean crazy?” 

As Jugasaki asked, Hibiki raised her hand. 

“Rather than crazy, I think madness suits Kurumi-san more!” 

“I think insanity is more appropriate. Or is it some value measured in three?” 

As Kareha chattered, Kurumi turned away while looking unhappy. 

“Yes, yes. I don’t mind your opinions. I like my name so it is fine.” 

“Speaking of names, I was often mistaken for my name.” 

Kareha spoke as if recalling something. 

“Mistaken?” 

“Ah, shouldn’t Kareha also mean dry leaves?” 

Kareha nodded in agreement. 

“The characters in my name are supposed to mean gorgeous wings. But each time the words dry leaves came up in language class, a naughty boy would laugh at me.” 

“Well, if I were there, I would shut them down immediately.” 

“Scary, I don’t know what that means. But that’s scary!” 

“I wouldn’t use such crazy methods. At best, I would cut them into fresh fish fillets.” 

“That’s scary too!” 

“For that specific guy who made fun of my name, I took off his pants and tied up his feet with them……” 

“Kareha-san used to be surprisingly bold.” 

“That’s all a matter of the past. If you don’t offend me, I wouldn’t fight back. Usually only when people made fun of my name or harassed Mizuha that I would fight back.” 

Kareha replied while pretending to recall nonchalantly. 

“I don’t remember anything about the other world.” 

Jugasaki said while twisting her neck. 

“It’s strange. No, I don’t remember. But we still know all sorts of things. For example, I know that the name of my Angel is <Zafkiel>. But the memory of the other world is too vague. It’s like a long forgotten dream.” 

“Yes, yes, life in the Neighboring World is??????like a long dream. Because it is a dream, it can be both sweet and a nightmare a times. And a dream means waking up sooner or later someday.” 

Kareha happily laughed while eating the grilled fish. 

“I don’t want to wake up. If I’m in a dream, I would rather live here forever.”’ 

Jugasaki mumbled out while reaching her chopsticks for the ginger. 

As nighttime arrived, as expected the idea of sleeping the formation of a ? character had been rejected. But on Jugasaki’s suggestion, all four of them slept in the same room as they laid out the futons. 

“……I’m fine with this.” 

“Jugasaki-san, I want to go to sleep.” 

“That’s not good. This is a rare opportunity. Let’s talk about something!” 

“Talk about what?” 

“Colonel Higoromo, what would be good for a topic?” 

“Hmm, following conventions, it would be talking about love??” 

“Topics about love, topics about love, then let me start.” 

“Forget it. It feels like it’s going to be a solo show from Kurumi-san.” 

“Eh……” 

Kurumi’s voice sank to the very bottom. Hibiki’s sudden words left her unable to respond. 

“U-Um……I would like to talk about love too……” 

“Hoho, I’m interested. Is there anyone that you like?” 

As Jugasaki flinched over talking over the topic, Kareha asked her teasingly. 

“……No. in the first place. Feelings of love……I wonder that is like……” 

“You want to start from here?” “From here really?” “Starting from here?” 

Jugasaki blushed, groaning while covering her face with the futon. 

“I don’t know. Everyone says that it can’t be expressed in words.” 

By everyone, she meant the rebel forces. 

“Have you ever asked them?” 

“I was listening to everyone.” 

“I’ve heard some people say they fell in love with a prince they’ve only seen once in a memory.” 

“Oh……a prince……oh……” 

Kurumi’s voice immediately dropped. Hibiki groaned. If they dig any deeper in this topic, it would be like walking into a Kurumi style landmine. 

“Although I’m not sure why, Quasi-Spirits that have fallen in love are very strong. When they decided to do something, their spirits look so dazzling.” 

“It should be like that. Love is very powerful.” 

“……Eh, with that statement. Maybe even Kareha-chan is in love!?” 

“That……I cannot affirm. Maybe, who did I fall in love with?” 

Kareha laughed. All three of them turned their attention to her. At that moment, Kurumi quickly communicated with Hibiki through a brief glance. 

Being in love must mean there was something holding her onto this Neighboring World. 

If that love deepened, it may provide a reason for her to stay in this Neighboring World??! 

“Who is the person?” 

“I also want to know!” 

Kareha smiled and shook her head. 

“Unfortunately, that’s a girl’s secret.” 

“Hmm, if you say that, it’ll get boring listening. Alright, this topic is over!” 

Hibiki argued against Jugasaki’s words in a hurry. 

“No, don’t stop, let’s continue! The other person must be someone close to you!?” 

“Secret, it’s a secret. I can’t say. Go to sleep, go to sleep.” 

“??Isn’t it Jugasaki-san?” 

Kurumi directly asked. Jugasaki froze. Hibiki regretted that she didn’t cover Kurumi’s troublesome mouth. 

Kareha smiled softly and answered Kurumi. 

“Half correct.” 

“~~~~~~!?” 

Jugasaki inadvertently leaped out of her futon. Her limbs flung around like a high-speed bon festival dance. 

“Eh, ehh!? Ha, uh, eh????!?” 

“The other half is a secret?” 

Kareha didn’t care about how embarrassed Jugasaki was as she smiled. Jugasaki rushed out in a panic. 

“Hibiki-san, can you please follow her?” 

“Aye sir!” 

Hibiki jumped out of her futon and chased after Jugasaki. 

After seeing both of them off, Kurumi asked Kareha with a stunned look. 

“Are you serious? Or was it just a joke?” 

“I’m really serious.” 

“But, then??why?” 

Why would you want to die? 

Why would you give up on living? 

If you are in love, isn’t it natural to want to stay alive? 

No, something felt different. 

Something was off. Something was amiss. Kurumi could understand her feelings. 

The same thing happened to her. Throwing away her life, to have risked it all for just a fleeting encounter. 

After all, this happiness. Even if it meant damaging a life that was short on time. 

Even if she wanted to resist her. 

……Shaking off those noisy memories, as she saw Kareha’s soft smile in front of her eyes, Kurumi could only helplessly smile back. 

“You really like her.” 

“I’ve fallen in love with a terrible mess.” 

Kurumi finally understood Kareha’s mysterious smile. 

“Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa……” 

Jugasaki crouched down while trying to endure the shame. 

“Jugasaki-san, General??are you okay?” 

“Not at all.” 

Hibiki also squatted down. Her face was bright red and in distress (?). Her age-appropriate behavior made her seem adorable. 

“Isn’t that great. She said that she likes you, you rascal.” 

Hibiki nudged her with her elbow. 

“It’s good! You’re liked!” 

“Ah, or do you think Kareha-san didn’t mean it when she said she liked you?” 

“Uh.” 

Jugasaki suddenly turned motionless. 

“A-About that……I don’t know, but I’m very glad……I think……” 

“So isn’t this great?” 

“But, but. ……Only half.” 

“You’ll let Kareha-san like you full-heartedly soon! Rather than just watching, do you think that’ll give you a chance!?” 

From the great deal of damage she was taking from these words, it was irrefutable proof of liking her. 

“Hibiki……um, who do you like?” 

“……Well, that’s also……probably not love. Or perhaps it would be better not to be in love.” 

Hibiki followed Kurumi knowing that separation would come one day. She was as loyal as a dog and mischievous like a cat. 

Although the day of parting would come, Hibiki wasn’t frustrated by it. 

Not because she did her best for that person, Hibiki followed without asking anything in return. 

“??I just want to be with her. Anyway, even if we can spend more second together, I think that is love.” 

“……But.” 

Jugasaki’s expression grew heavier as tears began to spill. 

“………..Kareha-chan is thinking about dying.” 

“So you really did know……” 

Of course, it was impossible not to know. It was in the peaceful Eighth Region Hod, but she was a Quasi-Spirit that had climbed up all the way to the position of Dominion. 

If Kareha was near the end of her life turning into an Empty??it was easily understandable that death would only be a matter of time. 

“But then, let’s work together to stop Kareha-san, Jugasaki-san!” 

“……I’m scared.” 

“Scared……?” 

“If, if, even if I beg and cry for her to stay, begging, clinging, Kareha-chan will still disappear……!” 

Afraid, she let out all her tears. 

“……But, if you leave it like this, you won’t even be able to convey your feelings to her!” 

Hibiki knew very well it wouldn’t be peaceful. 

When a love can’t be passed on and lingered endlessly, it sometimes even turned into the clear fires of revenge. 

Having experienced this beforehand, Hibiki understood it well. 

“I dare say. You have to at least convey your thoughts??or else Jugasaki-san will definitely regret it for the rest of your life!” 

“What……are you thinking……?” 

Hibiki tightly squeezed her hands and pulled her up. 

“Tomorrow! At sunset! Let’s have you confess!” 

“Confess!?” 

“If my intuition is correct, there is probably no more than two days left. ……So fight valiantly. 

Yes, this is a fight. Jugasaki-san will go on date and beat the value of living into Banouin Kareha-san!” 

“I, me with her……a date……uh, uh……I’m not confident at all……” 

“No problem, turn half of Kareha-san’s love into 100%!” 

But who was the person the other half of that love was going to? 

Jugasaki knew that the only other people closely connected with Kareha were her little sister Mizuha and Sagakure Yui. 

Her real little sister Mizuha and the mechanical doll Sagakure Yui would be a little strange for a relationship. 

Who could it be? 

“Another Dominion……possibly……?” 

“No, it can’t be……I think. After the Dominion meetings, she would always look exhausted……all-in-all, completely mentally drained. Besides, a relationship with another Dominion would have already caused rumors to spread.” 

“That’s true.” 

“So I don’t know who the other person is……someone for Kareha-chan I don’t know……” 

“But, Jugasaki-san definitely accounts for half of her love. For the time being, you’re still in first place. Then like this……only you can do this.” 

“……Only I can do this.” 

Jugasaki’s expression had changed from bashful to distressed, but now it quickly switched to full determination as she said that. 

“I see. I’ll do it!” 

“Alright, let’s do it!” 

Jugasaki and Hibiki tightly clenched their hands. Hope had finally been reignited in their eyes. 

The remaining half of love. 

Who she liked, Jugasaki was vaguely aware. 

And it may be an opponent Jugasaki had no chances of defeating.