Date A Live - Volume 17 - Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Nightmare’s Secret Maneuvers 

“..Oh no, this is bad, this is really bad.” 

Inside his own room at home, the boy flung out his arms against his head in distress. Yet, that was to be expected. As for the reason why── 

“..Mu.” 

From his peripheral vision, boy gently shot a glance at the corner of the room ──towards the direction of the bed. 

To be precise, he was looking at the girl sitting on the bed. 

“....” 

A girl, so beautiful to the extent that she looked handcrafted, was looking at the room back and forth with a dazed expression. Although she was wearing the jacket the boy had on earlier, she was not wearing anything underneath that. Every time she moved, he could catch a vague glimpse of her dazzling and glossy skin. 

That’s right. It had been an hour since that mysterious explosion. 

The boy had inconceivably brought the girl found at the center of the explosion back to his room. 

“..No, no, no.” 

The boy shook his head back and forth in an attempt to deny the dangerous thoughts roaming in his imagination. 

It can’t be. It absolutely did not come from a motive fueled by a guilty conscious. It should be owed to a force majeure..otherwise there would be no alternative out of this incident. 

While the boy was repeating such excuses within the interface of his mind, he vaguely remembered what just had occurred an hour ago. (──A, are you alright? Did you get hurt?) On the ground level where it seemed civilization was in the midst of the brink of collapse, the boy’s sight was snatched away by a girl who looked just like a goddess or angel. After at last slipping out from his paralyzed state, he issued out a question. Of course, he tried to look away in order to avoid seeing the girl naked. 

Although it was not clear who this girl is, the only definite thing was that this situation was beyond normalcy. He considered his first priority to confirm the status of the miraculous survivor. 

Although the girl noticed the boy’s voice, she only responded by glancing back at his line of sight, slowly casting her eyes onto his face without speaking a single word. 

(Un..) 

The boy, while staring at those gem-like eyes, felt his face grew more and more red. 

Then, the girl finally opened her lips. 

(.., Ah..,um..) 

However, this level certainly could not qualify as speech. A groan──no, this did not come from any pain, but rather from a slight shiver of the throat. (..? S-say, can you not speak..?) The boy furrowed his brow as he pondered this thought over. 

──Perhaps she could not say anything due to the shock from the explosion. Her not wearing any clothes might also come from being involved in that explosion; well, he didn’t think that it was too unreasonable. Though, after having said that, her skin showed no traces of any scars.  ..Or she was a special girl caught by a secret society of evil. The scenario of being placed naked within a cylindrical pod was often seen in Sci-fi works like this. The previous explosion was due to an experimental failure by this clandestine group and she, while being trapped underground, happened to escape by chance.. 

(..Ah, it really doesn’t matter why already.) 

The boy shook his head to discard the phantasmal story that had developed in his head. Then he removed his outer jacket in order to cover the girl. 

Indeed she might catch a cold at this rate──more than anything else, in a holy sense, he could not endure remembering her nudity exposed to the elements (..! ..?) The moment the coat landed on her shoulders, the girl’s eyes jolted in surprise, with her entire body beginning to tremble slightly. (Ah, s-sorry, did I scare you? But this way it really is..) As the boy flustered out a defense in a hurry, the girl’s eyes flickered while blinking as she began to pull on the coat hanging down her shoulders. 

(....) 

Eventually, after she seemed to understand that it was something warm, the girl made a relaxed expression. 

(U-umm..Can you walk? No, it should hurt to walk barefoot, right? If you don’t mind, I can carry you. Anyway let’s clear out from here. Do you know where your house is..) 

(..?) 

Hearing the boy’s words, the girl stared at him with a startled look. (..Did you not understand?) 

The boy scratched his face while making a wry smile; then, he bended down to squat next to the girl. 

──Such were the events leading to the present. 

“This is different. It’s different.” 

The boy murmured out as if trying to appeal to someone. 

The boy initially wanted to bring the girl to a hospital. However, while carrying the girl, he soon walked a few blocks forward towards a building still standing. There, he found that the town had fallen into a quagmire comparable to the end of the world. 

It was a matter of course if thought calmly. Since without any prior indication, a space ranging of tens of kilometers had been desolated. Shock waves emanating from the fringes also destroyed the surrounding environment, resulting in a huge number of casualties. As a result, the nearest large hospitals that should have accommodated for them were also flattened by the previous explosion. 

With the situation being in such a state of mayhem, the boy thought for a moment before deciding to choose his own house as a refuge for the girl to take a break in. There ought to be nothing strange with this decision..or at least that is what the boy had kept telling to himself. 

Although the boy’s house is a family of four, his parents had been away from home for a long time now due to a business trip. There shouldn’t be any issues with resting here for the time being── 

“──Nii-sama! Are you alright!” 

At that moment. 

Accompanied by a loud voice, the door to the room was vigorously pulled open. 

Looking closely, a girl had come rushing in. Her defining characteristics were her hair tied together in a single ponytail and a beauty mark resembling teardrop. Although today was supposed to be a day off, she probably had come back from club activities. She was wearing a black sailor fuku while carrying her backpack in one hand and a bamboo sword bag in the other. 

Having probably made a furious dash to return back here, large beads of sweat were dripping down from her forehead while her shoulders were shaking up and down. 

“──Mana” 

As the boy responded back by calling out her name, he breathed in a sigh of relief seeing that his little sister was safe. 

“..Eh.” 

Then, he immediately held his breath afterwards. 

Since calming down after seeing the boy face, his little sister’s expression was blinking with an astonished tint. 

However, this reaction also isn’t impossible of not being comprehended. 

There was a half-naked girl in her older brother’s room, even if it were not her; anyone else would display the same expression. “Y-you know, Mana, this is..” “....” Mana looked alternatively between the boy and girl’s faces. Then, after a moment of silence, she slowly walked towards the boy. “Pon!” She gently placed her hand against his shoulder. “..It’s alright. Mana is Nii-sama’s ally. Afterwards, make sure to properly atone for your sins later.” 

“What do you mean, that’s completely not alright!?” 

He could not help but raise his voice above an unbearable cry; however, it didn’t seem that Mana was listening. The boy shook his head as he attempted to unravel the misunderstanding. “Wait, wait! Why is it like this! Even if misunderstood, it should at least be “Kya, Nii-sama brought back a girlfriend home, how rude of me to barge in!” Shouldn’t it be like that!?” “It’s impossible for Nii-sama to do such a thing! Don’t make light of your little sister!” “You sure are asserting your views onto me!” “Well, then wouldn’t what you said earlier be the same thing?” “..That’s different though.” “Look, this doesn’t look like precisely as what one sees!” Confronted against Mana’s interrogation, he replied back while diverting his gaze. In response, Mana angrily took a deep breath before talking out her favorite bamboo sword from her bag, Dor÷maru (actual name), against the boy. As he hurriedly raised his hands in a panic, the bamboo sword stopped mere inches from his forehead. 

“Confess honestly! Where did you kidnap her from?” 

“Hey!? T-this is a misunderstanding! I only brought her back here because she was alone!” “Aaahhhh, then what you are saying is the same thing as kidnapping her!” “I thought so too after doing that, aaaahhh!” He responded back to Mana’s outcry with his own scream. Certainty, when pressed against, the literally meaning behind his judgement had truthfully leaked out. 

“A-anyway, listen to the story! This girl..she was at the scene of the explosion!” 

“..Eh?” 

As the boy shouted out his defense appeal, Mana finally loosened her grip on the bamboo sword. 

“What the heck is going on?” “That’s it. When I was caught up in the explosion earlier──I found her.” The boy briefly described his encounter with the girl and clarified the circumstances that brought them here. 

After listening, Mana made an “hmm..” sound as if gesturing in deep thought while quietly glancing at the direction of the girl. “To be sure, if considering Nii-sama has not struck his head or seen a hallucination..” “Ah, you’re still considering the possibility of me lying.” “Nii-sama wouldn’t tell Mana a lie, since you’re Mana’s Nii-sama.” As the boy was about to stagger out a sentence, Mana replied back in a pronounced manner..it really seemed that it was impossible to determine whether or not this little sister believed in her older brother. 

“Anyway, if you think with that premise, there are too many abnormalities. Who is that girl and why would she be at such a place?” “W-who knows?......Even if I were to ask such a thing.” As the boy replied back with a troubled face, Mana sharply focused her line of sight at the girl. “..Could it be that this child caused the explosion? Is that possible?” 

“Ha..? D-don’t be foolish, there’s no way a human could have done──” “──Achoo” Without noticing earlier, the boy and Mana heard a lovely sound coming over from the bed. It seemed that the girl had let out a sneeze. Speaking of which, although the girl was dressed in the coat, she wasn’t wearing any clothes underneath that. “A-are you alright?” “Aah yes, what are you going to do now Nii-sama? It can’t be helped. Mana will bring some of her clothes, so please wait──” “..A-ah..” At that moment. Just as Mana was about head to her room, the girl stared intently at Mana while her nose was sniffling. 

Then, at the next moment, light particles surrounded the girl as a sailor fuku, with the same design as Mana’s, materialized onto her body. “Wha...? “Huh...?” 

After being faced with such a supernormal phenomenon occurring right in front of them, the boy and Mana looked at each other with stunned expressions. 

“..Gaah!” 

Feeling a strong blow against his abdomen, Shido forcibly jolted his eyes awake. 

“Eh....! Huh..!? W-what’s happening!? An attack!?” 

As he failed to react in a brief moment, the whites of his eyes spun out in alarm. 

Immediately, he soon realized that there was a familiar figure standing upright on his stomach. 

After a few seconds, as his brain gradually woke up, Shidou finally understood what happened to him. 

“Ah, wake up──. That’s no good Onii-chan. You should already be use to this. Shouldn’t you pay a little more attention to this kind of thing?” 

While saying that, Kotori, who was standing on top of Shidou, gently used her fingers to brush her hair that was fluttering around while being tied down by the white ribbon. 

It seems he had been violently woken up by Kotori again. In his carelessness, Shidou was slightly surprised due to this not having happened recently. 

As he looked around, he was greeted by the familiar appearance of his own room. That’s right. Shidou was currently not sleeping on an infirmary bed onboard <Fraxinus>, but rather in his own room in Tenguu City. 

After resting a bit in the infirmary for a while and then eating with everyone, he returned back to ground level. 

“Kotori..” “Hey──” “Uguu──” Kotori kick off from Shidou’s stomach to make a graceful landing on the floor. 

At the same time, because of the impact, Shidou let out a brief scream as his body curled up in pain. 

“Y-you, ah..Can’t you wake me up more gently every time?” 

“Mu, saying it like that is misleading. It makes it seem like I jumped onto Onii¬chan without warning. No, no, it’s not like that. After trying to wake you up properly, if that plan doesn’t work, isn’t it inevitable to follow up with this step? I think there’s a problem on Onii-chan’s side if you’re still asleep in this situation.” 

“For the time being then let me listen, what exactly did you do to wake me up at first?” 

“On the staircase, I made footsteps with even more strength than just now.” 

“..That attitude is not even worth of recognition of being a wasteful by-product.” 

As Shidou mixed in a sigh while speaking, Kotori did not seem to notice the meaning behind his words and merely gave out a “hey, I was praised” expression alongside a bashful smile. 

However, as if remembering something, she narrowed her eyes before staring directly at Shidou. 

“W-what’s the matter.” 

“Um──no, it seemed to me that Onii-chan was muttering “Mana.” “It’s a misunderstanding.” “Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.” What on earth are you dreaming about? Why was it Mana and not me?” 

“No, what was that last thing!? I said that!?” 

He did not expect for even his own voice to betray himself. He hurriedly tried to recall the dream that he had just saw. However, Shidou couldn’t remember anything no matter how hard he tried digging up his memories, especially regarding that last word. 

Watching Shidou in such a perplexed state, Kotori let out an “ahaha” laugh. 

Apparently, it seemed to have been only a joke. Shidou let out a relieved sigh. 

“..Ah really, so what time is it now?” 

As he spoke out, Shidou reached to grab the smartphone beside his bed. The bright sunshine was already gleaming past his window. Although he did not agree with Kotori’s wild method of waking up, he had certainty been asleep for longer than usual. 

“..Eh, nine O’clock!? Is this for real, school has already begun!” 

After staring at the screen of the smartphone, Shidou winded his eyes in surprise. He quickly jumped out of the bed in a panic, planning to make a dash out of the room. 

However, from his side, Kotori suddenly grabbed the edge of his sleeve, hindering his progress forward in the process. 

“W-what is it Kotori?......That being said, you should also hurry to school. At the very least to catch up before the second class period──” 

“..Ha.” 

As Shidou finished, Kotori breathed out a heavy sigh. 

Then, after swaying her head from side to side in state of disappointment, she pulled out a familiar black ribbon from her pocked and restyled her hair with such skillful movements. 

This was how Kotori switched her peculiar method of thinking. While an innocent girl when wearing the white ribbon, switching to the black ribbons she changes to become the dignified commander of <Ratatoskr>. 

“──What the heck are you panicking for, Shidou. It can’t be because you’re planning to go to school, right?” 

“No, of course not..eh, mm? Is today a day off?” 

Due to how chaotic the days have been recently, his memory of the week had become somewhat unreliable. He looked at the phone screen again..However, it wasn’t a special day off, but rather a usual school day. 

Consequently, Kotori sighed once again before continuing to convince Shidou. 

“Hey, are you still asleep now? Right now your life is being targeted──no, if you believe in Kurumi, then you should already be dead, right? Why bother going to places where security is lacking and you are liable to be harmed.” 

“Ah..” 

Shidou’s eyes narrowed upon hearing those words. 

It was exactly as stated. Although checking the time caused his body to reflexively move, there shouldn’t be any priority for school during this emergency. 

“Sorry..but.” 

Still..there was one matter. Despite being in full agreement, there was still one matter of concern left at school for Shidou. 

“Kurumi..she might be there. If that’s the case──I have must go.” 

That’s right. Certainty, Shidou’s was being targeted by the large organization called DEM and could not tread lightly as a result. 

But the same time, Shidou was in the process of trying to capture Kurumi. Moreover, Shidou still hasn’t been able to say a single word of gratitude to Kurumi. If perchance Kurumi came to school to see him, he couldn’t ignore this. 

Kotori, who seemed to understand Shidou’s feelings, sighed and nodded her head in acknowledgement. 

“Yes, I’m also aware of this. For our part, we cannot idly sit by with the matter regarding Kurumi. ──Even now, several self-automated cameras have been dispatched to the school from <Fraxinus>. If they capture Kurumi’s appearance, then I’ll permit a special case for contact. Of course, in order to avoid the risk of going to school, you’ll be dropped directly down to school from <Fraxinus>.” 

“Ah..thank you. I can’t thank you enough.” 

After saying that, Shidou lowered his head to bow to Kotori. Kotori awkwardly scratched her cheek while shyly averting her eyes. However, at the next moment── “Ara, ara, how pleasant, for you to exhaust so much effort for me.” “Ha──” “Eh..?” 

Suddenly, an unexpected voice was heard from the right side, causing Shidou and Kotori turned to the source of the voice at the same time. 

Although unknown for how long, they both saw a figure of a girl emerging over there. 

With brilliant black hair and porcelain white skin, her legs up to her knees were immersed inside a shadow entrenched beside the bedside. 

“..Kurumi!?” 

Her face could never be mistaken. In a stunned state, Shidou had involuntarily called out her name,. 

No──that wasn’t quite right. Shidou stood breathlessly as he watched her figure slowly emerge from the shadow .

The person here was indeed Tokisaki Kurumi. There was no doubt about that. However, Kurumi, who was now in front of both of them, wore a rose hair ornament instead of having her usual hairstyle. Her choice of clothes resembled Gothic Lolita style ──most of all, her left eye was covered by a medical eyepatch. 

He was quite familiar with those particular outward characteristics. This was the Kurumi he had meet when traveling back to the world of 5 years ago── and also the clone who had, a few days ago, told him the truth about Kurumi. 

“Ufufu, greetings Shidou-san, Kotori-san.” 

After completely emerging from the shadows, eyepatch Kurumi elegantly lifted the hem of her skirt for a small curtsy forward. 

However, even when given such an attentive greeting, Kotori did not relax her vigilance at the slightest. She pursed her lips open to speak and directed her line of sight onto that girl amidst the intense tension. 

“Good morning, Kurumi. Aren’t you dressed quite lovely today?” 

“Ufufu, you are sure skillful in giving a compliment, Kotori-san. Although you’re not blood related, as expected of Shidou-san’s little sister.” Kurumi exposed out a graceful smile.  Confronted with this backhanded compliment, Kotori began to feel slightly annoyed. 

“..Still, haven’t you violated proper etiquette? For you to rush into someone else’s home without permission.” “Ara, ara, that really was quite rude.” In response to Kotori’s words, Kurumi bowed down her head in apology. 

However, Kurumi immediately afterwards let out a bewitching smile before continuing on. “Although it can be used to apologize, I can inform you of two important pieces of information to compensate.” 

“....Important information?” As Kotori narrowed her brow in surprise, Kurumi made a “yes, yes” remark while stroking her fingers against her lips in a lustrous gesture. 

Then, she spoke out her words in a quiet manner while staring intently at both Shidou and Kotori. 

“On February 20th, 4 days from today, DEM will devote all of its efforts towards killing Shidou-san.” 

Having heard that utterance, it stirred feelings of excessive despair. 

“...........................Wha?” 

It was not as if he hadn’t recognized the meaning behind those words. However, Shidou was rendered dumbstruck over abruptly being informed of plans to kill him. 

“..What do you mean?” 

Beads of sweat fell down Kotori’s cheek while she kept her attention on Kurumi. Meanwhile, Kurumi lowered her eyes downward before continuing to speak. 

“What’s going on, even if you ask that, it’s just what that means. As the world’s top manufacturer of the realizer manifestation device, the organization possess the strength of the world’s strongest Wizards, the intelligence capabilities of the all-knowing Demon King, tens of thousands of automatic dolls, and countless Pseudo-Spirits. It’s the same thing as saying that they are trying to pour all of that for the sake of killing── a single person.” 

“What..” 

Shidou was left at a literal loss for words. 

Certainty, DEM had been so far aiming at Shidou’s life and according to Kurumi’s words; they have actually killed him numerous times now. 

However, this was no more to say than an assassination, where the elimination of Shidou’s life occurred while their own side was not prepared. 

However, what Kurumi had just described was a show of overwhelming force dedicated to annihilating the enemy──with that description, it merits being called a war. No, if Kurumi had not just provided that information just now, Shidou probably would have been butchered without any resistance. With that in mind, it would have been more accurate to describe it as unilateral slaughter. 

“──And then.” 

With Shidou being completely unable to speak, Kotori, crossed her arms with a grim expression before interjecting. 

“Why did you bother conveying that thankful message, Kurumi? ──What on earth is your goal?” 

“Ara, ara. What heavy suspicion, Kotori-san. I’m only worried about the safety of Shidou-san.” 

“Hmm..” 

Kotori narrowed her eyes as she glared at eyepatch Kurumi in an attempt to ascertain her true motives. Faced with the ambulanced exuded by Kotori, eyepatch Kurumi forced out a bitter smile. 

“It seems that Kotori-san has a slight misunderstanding.” “..Misunderstanding?” “Yes, yes.” 

Eyepatch Kurumi nodded her head while continuing to speak with a somewhat artificial tone, as if she was rehearsing for a play. 

“The one here right now is a doppelganger, me ──the one that you call the real Tokisaki Kurumi does not know this. I chose to divulge that information under my own personal discretion.” 

“Huh..?” 

“What did you say?” 

Both Shidou and Kotori’s faces were flushed with a bewildered look. That was natural, the eyepatch Kurumi standing in front of them was a temporal clone made from Kurumi’s past. Generally, they were supposed to be the vanguard that moves in accordance to the original Kurumi’s instructions. 

Eyepatch Kurumi, who seemed to find the reaction of both of them slightly amusing, slightly turned her face around before continuing to speak. 

“Me intends to deal with this matter through only myself. ──Cycling and repeating back numerous times in order to secure a future where Shidou-san survives.” 

“..” 

“However, the actions of me has become known to the enemy. ──Therefore, this all-out war, this battle for absolute annihilation that will take place. DEM’s strategy is not only killing Shidou-san, but also crushing the aspirations of me, who has the power to cross through time. 

A surprise ambush, a clever and malicious scheme, a trivial tactic that cannot be subverted, a steel-fisted tempest. Deus. Ex. Machina., a name befitting the concept of a god of the machine, a dominating military tactic on the chessboard that forcibly leads the story to its end.” 

“....I see.” 

After a full empty beat, Kotori spoke out to break the silence. 

“That is to say, the reason you came here was to tell Shidou to take refuge..is that right? Let <Ratatoskr> protect Shidou while you Kurumis go to fight.” 

As Kotori finished, eyepatch Kurumi placed a finger on her chin and let out an “ah──well..” as if pondering over something. 

“It would be certainly appreciated if you do so, but that alone isn’t the correct answer.” “..? Then why did you go behind the real Kurumi’s back to tell us this?” 

As Kotori inquired with a frown, eyepatch Kurumi exposed a prankster-like smile. 

“It’s a simple reason. Even though me is doing her best, it’s a waste that Shidou-san doesn’t even know that he is being protected.” 

After saying that, she clicked a flirtatious wink at Shidou. While somewhat surprised, Shidou responded back with a wry smile. 

“..So that’s it.” 

“Well..it’s better to be honest than have a botched up excuse. If the real Kurumi were like you that would be a big help.” 

As Kotori crossed her arms and threw out somewhat harsh words, eyepatch Kurumi giggled as if finding that amusing. 

“Ufufufufu. My apologizes. Me is a very stubborn person.──However; the desire to protect Shidou-san is sincere. Ah, please understand at least that.” 

“Hmm..after saying something like that, I won’t have to worry that you’ll attempt to seize Shidou’s reiryoku behind our backs?” 

“..Ufufu.” 

After Kotori said that, eyepatch Kurumi neither made an excuse or justification, merely only a quiet smile. 

Afterwards, while swaying her skirt, she quickly retreated to the corner. 

“──Now then, my purpose here has been fulfilled. Please be sure to stay alive for me, Shidou-san.” 

After saying that, eyepatch Kurumi slowly fell in to her own shadow, continuing to sink deeper inside. 

“Kurumi!” 

Just before eyepatch Kurumi completely disappeared, Shidou hurriedly cried out from behind her. 

“Yes? What do have to say, Shidou-san?” 

Eyepatch Kurumi, who had been emerged into the shadow up to her waist, turned around to respond to the call. It almost looked like a girl bathing in a lake...... well, the fact that the lake had a pitch black color gave a slight ominous feeling. 

He cleared out his throat while looking directly at eyepatch Kurumi’s eye. 

“Thank you for coming here to inform me just now. If possible can you also convey a message to Kurumi from me? ──Thank you. It’s thanks to you that I’m still alive right now. I’m deeply sorry I couldn’t express my appreciation beforehand. I’ve also heard what you are trying to do right now. I can’t thank you enough for protecting me. But.” 

Shidou sharpened his gaze with a flare of determination in his chest before continuing to speak. 

“──Although I’m sorry, I still have mettle as a man, so I cannot accept your help. So after neatly resolving the matter of DEM, then I will surely stand in front of you once again to seal you reiryoku......no, not like that.” 

Shidou closed his eyelids for an instant before suddenly opening them again. 

“This time, I’m going to snatch away your lips. Please be prepared for it, my honey.” 

Right afterwards, he felt hampered by a great deal of embarrassment from having said that. 

“....” 

For a few seconds, eyepatch Kurumi could only stare blankly at Shidou. 

“..U-fufu.” 

Finally, it reached the point where she could no longer bear to suppress her laughter. 

“Ahahahahahahahaha! So that’s the reason..how cleverly said. Me really is a blessed person.” 

After laughing for a while, eyepatch Kurumi was finally able to calm down while wiping the tears in her eyes. 

“..However, that truly is a harsh request, Shidou-san. Like what was mentioned before, I came here in secret from me. To convey that message would be tantamount to confessing an arbitrary action done on my own initiative without prior consolation. Disobedient limbs that move at their own leisure must be eliminated. Do you want me to die?” “Ah..” 

After hearing that, Shidou widened his eyes in alarm. 

Just as precisely as she said those words, he lowered his panicky head down in apology “S-sorry, I didn’t intend for it to be like that..” “Yes, yes. I did not think someone as gentle as Shidou san would consider something like that. 

“──However, although this life is insignificant, it would undoubtedly be scattered as a stepping stone for me if there is the event of reckless behavior. Although I’m sorry, I cannot guarantee conveying that message.” 

“..Un, that was my bad.” 

As Shidou finished speaking, eyepatch Kurumi turned around and began to giggle. 

“Ahaha. Truly such an outrageous person──Your words, has it yet to be decided if I should wager my life to convey that message to me?” 

After pleasantly saying those words for the bottom of her heart, eyepatch Kurumi faded away into the shadow. 

“....” “....” 

Soon after, silence filled the entire room. 

Both Shido and Kotori were quietly in thought while gazing at the spot where eyepatch Kurumi had disappeared into. 

“..Hey, Kotori.” “..Yeah.” 

As soon as Shidou opened his mouth, Kotori quickly replied back as if anticipating the reaction. 

“It’s just as you say, Shidou. It would be a disgrace to <Ratatoskr>’s reputation if we handed everything over to a Spirit.” 

Kotori then took out a single Chupa Chups from her pocket, rotating it with her finger before throwing it into her mouth. “──Kurumi, DEM, let’s show them properly our method of doing things.” 

“....” 

While sitting on a bench in the longue area of the aerial ship <Fraxinus>, Reine looked at the sky without saying anything. 

That’s right; it was the sky. Instead of using materials reserved for construction walls, the lounge area was overlooked by tempered glass that offered a high degree of transparency. As a result, the blue skies, with its hazy clouds and glimmering rays of sunshine, were reflected onto the ship. 

This airship, driven by the realizer manifestation device, relied on the voluntary territory to protect the hull of the ship. The importance of body armor was less compared to a more conventional warship. Therefore, even if it cost some battle strength, it was considering the possibility of accommodating the Spirits for a long time in case of an emergency. As such, rest areas like the comfortable lounging area and other entertainment areas were available on the ship. 

..As such, although placed for reasonable motives, in the end it was ultimately provided for because Kotori and Elliot Woodman like to play around in such recreational spaces. 

Nevertheless, it wasn’t automatically a bad thing. In the first place, aerial warships and the realizer manifestation device were originally impossible to exist in this world. 

──The phantasmal realizer manifestation device, which was beyond human comprehension, was brought about through the existence of Spirits. 

In this manner, it would be perfectly justified to provide such a space for the Spirits. Indeed, the Spirits who visited here after the renovation of <Fraxinus> were very excited to see this scene. 

“..Fuu.” 

Besides──it wasn’t as if Reine disliked this place either. 

She gently sighed, leaning on the bench while looking at the sky. 

Afterwards, she took out the stuffed bear plushy from the pocket of her <Ratatoskr> uniform and lifted it high, high, up in the air with both hands. 

“....” 

Then, she started intently at the tiny bear with sky as a backdrop. 

The plushy had endured the test of time. Although its style was still very cute, due to the traces of stiches on its body, it resembled a zombie or Frankenstein’s monster in appearance. 

“..One more left, no...two.” 

Reine silently muttered to herself. 

Immediately following her whisper, the communication device in her pocket gave off a slight vibration. 

“..Un.” 

Reine supported her body back up and switched out the bear plushy with the communication device in her breast pocket. Then, immediately upon hitting the call button, she heard a familiar voice. 

“──! Ah, Analytic officer Murasame. It’s Shiizaki.” 

It came from one of the crew members onboard <Fraxinus>, Shiizaki. From the tone of her voice, she could hear a slight degree of tension and anxiety. It seemed that something had happened. 

“..Un, what’s wrong?” 

“Emergency situation, please head to the briefing room. ──This morning, Tokisaki Kurumi appeared before Commander and Shidou-kun and told them that DEM is preparing an all-out attack. Our next step is holding a conference to plan out countermeasures..” 

“...Fumu.” 

Reine raised her brow while stroking her chin with her other hand. 

DEM’s all-out assault. The possibility was not out of their expectations. DEM’s leader Isaac Westcott possessed the Demon King <Beelzebub> within his grasp. It was only a matter of time before they saw through Kurumi’s secret maneuvers in crossing the time barrier. “..Understood, I’m heading there now.” “Ah, thank you.” 

After finishing the conversation with Shiizaki, Reine pressed the button to end the call. 

Then, after putting the communication device back in her pocket, she then stood up from the lounge bench. 

“..Is it coming, magician.” 

As Reine spoke out ever so silently, she let out a narrow sigh. 

There were several figures currently within the conference room onboard <Fraxinus>. 

Inside the center of the room, there was large round table where the commander, Kotori presided over. Left from that starting point, Shidou, Tohka and the other Spirits were all seated in position one after the other. On the opposite side, there was Kannazuki, Reine and the other crew members of <Fraxinus>. 

At the center of the room, the letters spelling out the name Maria was on display for every direction. 

Kotori had requested for everyone to come here to discuss countermeasures against DEM. 

Although Shidou and Kotori originally didn’t want to get the Spirits involved in this matter, the situation was so dire that they couldn’t even say such an opinion. After all, DEM was intending on using all of their power to kill Shidou. With their inferior numbers, it would be impossible for <Ratatoskr> to not count the Spirits among their fighting force. ──More than anything else, if they held such a conference without the Spirit’s knowledge, their mental state would likely be destabilized. 

In the past, there was the option of withdrawing the Spirits from the conflict by withhold information..However, the existence of the Spirit known as Tobiichi Origami made this indefinitely harder. Even for <Ratatoskr>, it would be impossible due to her superhuman instinct and technological capability to eavesdrop on every conversation from behind the scenes. 

As a result, the Spirit · Human Countermeasures Meeting was formally announced. After looking at everyone from the circle, Kotori gradually stood up from her seat. 

“──Thank you for gathering here, everyone.” 

As the clear sound of Kotori’s voice reverberated through the conference room, everyone turned their attention onto Kotori’s direction. 

“I think everyone here has already heard the story. ──This morning, Kurumi appeared in front us, leaving information that DEM industries is planning a large scale attack. Their purpose is──the inversion of the Spirits through killing Shidou.” 

“..” 

After listening to what Kotori had said, all of the Spirits and crew members took in a deep a breath. 

“Of course the possibility of Kurumi lying isn’t zero, but from this current situation the creditability of this information is not low. As for <Ratatoskr>, we cannot delay creating countermeasures as soon as possible. ──Maria.” 

“Yes.” 

In response to Kotori’s command, the clear voice of a young girl resounded through the speakers set around the room. It was the <Fraxinus> management AI · Maria. 

“──The first option that can be considered is to evade DEM’s attack and evacuate Shidou and the Spirits to a safe place. Since <Ratatoskr> has bases all around the world, there should be no shortage of alternative locations. However──” 

“Yes, the opponent has the omniscient Demon King <Beelzebub>. Even though it has not been able to demonstrate its full performance due to Nia’s jamming, if he focuses solely on Shidou’s whereabouts, he should still be able to find us.” 

“Exactly, the thief has truly plundered a troublesome Demon King. If someone had been a little bit more firm, this situation wouldn’t have turned like this.” 

Maria’s words came out mixed with a slight sigh. It was full of human warmth that went directly against the excessive calculating power of an outstanding artificial intelligence program. Despite only having the letters on the screen flash, it honestly felt as if a girl had spoken while shrugging her shoulders. 

“Hey──hey──this is really embarrassing, sorry, sorry──” 

It was Nia who peevishly sulked while using both of her hands to support reclining down her chin.  Originally, Westcott’s Demon King <Beelzebub> was a part of Nia’s Angel <Rasiel>. 

Needless to say, it was snatched away due to DEM’s exceedingly sinister scheme, and should not be blamed on any misconduct or negligence on Nia’s part. 

Although everyone had already known this..for some reason, Maria had spoken to Nia in a particularly barbed manner. Nia, who was initially struck by such a reaction, gradually regained her composure and narrowed her eyes while fluttering her hand in the air. 

“Well, even if said that much, things won’t change. Let’s talk more constructively.” 

After telling Maria to change the conversation, Nia stuck out her tongue, making a “blaa!” sound just like an elementary school child. 

Despite Maria seeming a bit frustrated, she may have felt that arguing further would have meant lowering down her mental age, so she continued on as if nothing had happened. 

“Since a withdrawal strategy is ineffective, there are two remaining moves. One of them is──negotiation.” 

“..Well, that’s not really too realistic.” 

Faced with what Maria had said, Shidou replied back with sweat dripping down his face. All of the Spirits also nodded their heads in concurrent. 

Well, that of course couldn’t be helped. The adversary was the natural enemy of Spirits, whom had brought their blade against them numerous times now. Moreover, since their purpose is to kill Shidou and inverse the Spirits to seize the Spirit Sephira Crystals. Thus, there was no probability of negotiations with <Ratatoskr>, whom was aimed at protecting the Spirits. 

“Muu, saying it like that──” 

As Tohka spoke out while stroking her chin, Kotori gave a firm nod of consent. 

“Yes, there is only one option remaining, that is──to beat down DEM.” 

“..!” 

After hearing what Kotori had said, a sudden burst of tension filled the briefing room. 

At the time of being foretold of an attack by DEM. 

Then, at the time of being called into this room. 

That choice had been floating around everyone’s mind for a while now. 

However, when explicitly stated by Kotori as a commander, all vague suspense, thinking, probability was overshadowed by a single fact brought into reality. 

“Of course, I understand that this is not a simple task. Although our side has a slightly better performance with the realizer manifestation unit, the other side possesses an estimated ten times more our size in Wizards. When the <Bandersnatch> and <Nibelcol> are added, it’s difficult to image how much more the gap has widened. If they all advance for their purpose without concern collateral damage or causing a social scandal, it would be difficult to stop them.” 

“....” 

Caught in the moment, everyone stood breathless. However, Kotori did not blame them for that. Rather, she nodded her head to show her sympathy. 

“However, we have to fight. Although the decision to attack is sudden, the enemy has already striven to crush our escape route numerous times now. 

The result has been Shidou’s deaths for over 200 times now.” “Muu..” 

As Tohka tightened her lips, the other Spirits also all showed a stringent expression. 

“Without Kurumi, our story would have already been over with the worst ending of Shidou’s death. ──And now, the enemy intends to take the next by also defeating Kurumi. Kurumi may not be able to necessarily redo the world again the next time Shidou dies. We have no other choice but to go on the offensive, seize tomorrow with our own hands.” “──Exactly. Well said, Commander Itsuka.” Suddenly. As Kotori was amidst of her passionate speech, an unexpected voice was heard coming from the speakers. This wasn’t Maria’s voice. The low reverberated sound no doubt belonged to an older gentleman. 

“Ah..” 

Looking at the monitor at the center of the round table, Kotori widened her eyes in surprise. 

With the same look, Shidou also flushed his face in astonishment. 

Up until now, only the words spelling Maria were shown, but now it also displayed the image of an old man wearing spectacles. 

“Woodman-san!” 

Shidou could not help but call out that name. That’s right; this person was the decision-making body of <Ratatoskr> and chairman of the Round Table, Elliot Woodman himself. 

“Hello, long time no see everyone. I’m sorry I couldn’t contact you until now.” “No, don’t say that. Is your body feeling better?” “Ah, it’s fine now. It looks like I made you worry. 

Woodman let out a smile and pushed his glasses upward as if to change the conversation topic. 

“Well, although I would also like to have a leisurely chat, it seems that the current matter at hand does not allow for this. ──I have a rough grasp on the situation. Needless to say, we intend to provide as much of <Ratatoskr>’s cutting edge technology as possible. However, the absolute quantity of the enemy cannot be subverted. If there is a direct conflict, we will eventually be defeated.” “That..” “When he heard that, Shidou felt the urge to bite against his own lip. 

But soon, Woodman continued to speak. 

“──However, DEM industries is an organization entirely governed through Isaac Westcott’s charisma and Ellen Mather’s execution power. In other words, if we remove the two of them, no matter how many wizards or automatic dolls remaining, it will no longer be large problem. His organization grew too much; it is no longer a sturdy monolith anymore. If those two people disappear, the anti-opposition party within the company can clean up the rest.” 

“..!” 

Hearing what Woodman had said, Shidou took in a breathtaking gulp. 

However, the quickly understood it still was a tremendous difficult task to begin with. 

In any case, the opponent was the man who had gained the power of a demon king and the world’s strongest Wizard. In the case of the former, he was also shielded by a myriad of <Bandersnatch> units and <Nibelcol>, making even a creating a direct confrontation exceedingly difficult. Although the target had been narrowed down, a method to handle the enemy’s overwhelming forces had not changed. However, at that moment. “──I see. Then, it may be worth trying that.” From the speaker, Maria’s voice echoed through the briefing room. “Huh..?” “Maria? What did you mean by that?” 

As Kotori inquired in a surprised tone, Maria replied back without skipping a beat. 

"I would be troubled if there is too much expectation and I do not have any definite evidence at all. This is at best a speculation as to whether it will be realized or not." 

“Don’t try and sell it off. What are you thinking about?” 

Kotori spoke out while anxiously tapping her fingers against the round table. Then, Maria replied back with a voice that sounded as if she was letting out a large sigh. 

“If this is true, it may be possible to neutralize the <Nibelcol>.” “..!? Wha──” After hearing what Maria had said, Shidou could not help but let out a cry from his throat.” 

Of course, Shidou was not the only one to give such a reaction. The Spirits and crew members all raised their eyes in astonishment. However, among them, there was one person who did change her facial expression. 

“──Is that really true, Maria?” Origami’s composed voice blew through the turmoil of the shaken crowd. In response to that, Maria replied back from the speaker.  

“Uhuh, it’s true. Although, I not sure if it can be realized by including that point among them, but.──” 

“That is enough considering the current situation. ──If this goes well, I may have a solution for the rest.” 

“..!” 

Everyone poured their gaze onto Origami. Shidou, not being an exception, also turned his attention to the same direction. 

“Origami? What did you just say..?” 

When question by Shidou, Origami placed her hand under her chin as if deep in thought before continuing to speak. 

“It will certainly be difficult to achieve this goal. However, if Maria is able to hamper with the <Nibelcol>, then I have an idea of how to handle the <Bandersnatch>.” “What did you say..? What the heck is that!?” 

As Kotori asked questions with astonished eyes, Origami gave a slight nodded before opening her mouth to speak. 

“<Bandersnatch> is a very new weapon for even DEM. Although the concept has existed for a while, there had been no realizer manifestation device with sufficient performance to realize that ambition.” 

“..! That’s it, <Ashcroft ·β>! They must rely on that ultra-powerful realizer manifestation unit to bring about that result!” 

It was Mana who had reacted to what Origami had said. She made an exaggerated clap with her hands before placing her fingers against her forehead to further contemplate on what had been said. 

<Ashcroft ·β>. Shidou thought that name sounded familiar. He vaguely remembered that Kotori had once said that DEM had built a new realizer manifestation device of the same name, which considerably shortened the technological gap between <Ratatoskr> and DEM. 

However, he still didn’t quite know what Origami and Mana were thinking about. Shidou slanted his head while that question floated in his mind. “W-wait a second. What is the matter with that realizer manifestation device?” “That’s right. Only the two of you understand right now, please explain. ── 

Maria as well. What exactly can we do to weaken the <Nibelcol>?” 

Seeing a perplexed look on Kotori’s face, the characters spelling out MARIA, at the edge of the screen where Woodman was projected, lit up. “Yes, I will clarify it now. In the first place, the <Nibelcol> are a pseudo lifeform created by DEM’s technology and composed primarily of reiryoku from <Beelzebub>. Assuming that is the case ──” “..! Stop, stop! Wait a second!” 

Just as Maria was about to present the main focus of her thesis, it came to abrupt halt due to Nia interrupting in a panic.” 

“Nia?” 

“What is going on? Even if your pervious life was a pig, please stop making abrupt strange noises.” 

Maria let out a faint, but also scathing remark. 

However, Nia did not express even the slightest blow of mental shock or irritation. Rather, she kept her serious expression spoke out while waving her finger. 

“Oririn, Manati, and 2D heroine from an eroge, can we stop this discussion here?” 

“Why?” 

“That’s a strange thing to say when we’ve obviously came here together to share information.” 

“First of all, I’d like an explanation for that last name designation. Depending on the answer, I’ll drop you out of the airship.” 

As Origami and Mana both gave a puzzled look to Nia, the letters spelling out MARIA on the screen were violently flashing as if to express her anger. 

In response to the three of them, Nia shrugged her shoulders, keeping in tone with her mischievous manner of speaking. 

“Well, I would love to know if there were any difficult to deal with strategies, right? But who do you think wants to know that information the most in the world?” “..?” 

As Shidou felt bewildered over what Nia had just said── 

“! Ah..” 

However, the moment he became aware of the meaning of those words, his shoulders began to tremble. 

Origami and the others probably had noticed as well. Each person showed a different response from slightly pursing their brow to tightening their lips. 

That’s right. Presenting their strategy here would be synonymous with Westcott being able later to search that information through <Beelzebub>. 

Judging from everyone’s reactions that her intentions had been properly conveyed, Nia gave a subsequent nod. 

“That is the situation at hand. Of course, I’ve applied jamming to prevent the instantaneous obtaining of information from <Beelzebub>──but it is still possible that the threat still remains. Only events from the future and people’s thoughts cannot be read. If we want to make a reversal in combat, then it’s best to not even talk to your allies until the war has begun.” 

“....” 

Although Nia was speaking in a relaxed tone, there was a uniform degree of tension displayed on everyone’s facial expressions. 

Of course, perhaps the enemy could even eavesdrop on the current conference. 

Despite everyone knowing it mentally, there was still no corresponding feeling of realism. “We cannot discuss strategy at a war meeting.” It felt just like trying to pulling a cart before the horse. 

In an attempt to shake off the stiff atmosphere, Nia continued on in an enthusiastic demeanor. 

“Well, I guess it’s not a simple thing that can be done easily. ──Still, I would expect that our excellent AI-sama can at least handle something of this level, right?” 

As part of her habitual retaliation, Nia replied back without hiding her sarcastic tone in the slightest. 

“....” 

Maria remained silent for a moment before the audio file let out a solemn “ha” sounding sigh. 

“....Although it’s a bit regrettable, it’s true that you saved us for potential harm, Nia.” 

“Ahaha! You ought to know! Straightforwardness is a virtue for children. Isn’t that right standing picture AI-chan?” “...Yes, Nia. Could you please touch the console on the table?” “Huh? Like──this?” Following Maria’s instruction, Nia placed her hand on top of the console. 

Then, at the next moment, accompanied by the crackling sound of an electrical spark, Nia leaped into the air on the spot like a cartoon character. 

“Gyan!?” 

It seemed that a light current had flowed through to the console. With tears in her eyes, Nia was slowly exhaling on her left hand in attempt to cool it down. 

“W-what are you doing──! This kind of manners after having your failure pointed out is not adult-like at all──!” 

"What are you talking about? I have frankly reflected on this incident and paid tribute to Nia. The shock was just a reasonable retaliation against me for making a fuss and chatting me off." 

“Uwa──! Quibbler──! You’re the quibbler king──!” 

Despite Nia continuing to complain, Maria had chosen to simply take no heed to it anymore. Although there were only 6 English letters on the screen, it felt that they could only see a girl with a scowl on her face. 

While watching such an interaction unfold, Kotori could only helplessly shrug her shoulders. 

“──Anyway, as far as strategy is concerned, it’s just as Nia had said.” 

“If we discuss the details here, the enemy will be able to find the corresponding countermeasures. Origami, Mana, sorry but please devise the plans for the <Bandersnatch> on your own. For the moment, we’ll also share information on Maria’s countermeasures for the <Nibelcol> just before the war begins.” “Understood.” “Well..there’s no other way to handle this.” 

As Origami and Mana nodded in consent, Kotori responded in the same manner before turning her attention to the screen displaying Woodman. 

“──That seems to be it. Sir Woodman, does this seem to be okay?” 

“Ah. I appreciate the calm response. Let me also do everything I can in my possession. Please look forward to it. It’s truly been regrettable that I haven’t been able to talk to everyone for a while.” 

As Woodman replied back in a jesting manner, his words seemed to have an alleviating effect on the facial expression of Kotori and the others. 

“──Any words to justify yourself?” Kurumi coldly stated while aiming the muzzle of the short pistol at the clone. 

“Ara, ara, I do not understand what you are asking about?” 

The clone directed her line of sight elsewhere while the pistol was still directed against her. The purposely blunt and foolish manner of response caused blood vessels to protrude from Kurumi’s forehead. 

Although it was a clone, the individual with the pistol pointed against her was not exactly the same as Kurumi. 

To be exact, while the share the same body and face, her hairstyle and selection of clothes were different than that of Kurumi. 

A Gothic Lolita dress decorated with a rose hair ornament and a stylish eyepatch covering her left eye, this was the Kurumi from five years ago, who has a complex consciousness from various circumstances. 

Although it was a clone with a history of many problematic behaviors, it seemed to have continued to act with privately intentions this time as well. 

Kurumi aligned the muzzle at her chin, while making a frustrated groan from her throat. 

“Please do not be so foolish. The other me has already reported it. I’ve heard that you told Shidou-san and Kotori-san about DEM’s assault.” 

“Other me. Was that sort of thing reported? Wow, there seems to be no trust here. How sad, it makes me want to cry.” 

“I did not consider that sniveling would be a tactic commonly employed by me.” 

As Kurumi narrowed down her gaze as she finished speaking, eyepatch Kurumi stuck out her tongue to extraordinarily provoke Kurumi’s nerves yet again. 

Whether or not she bothered to notice the reaction, eyepatch Kurumi proceeded onward in the same honest tone. 

“However, I don’t understand what is wrong. Is informing Shidou-san truly such a terrible thing to do?” 

“..That matter, I was intending to inform later through another clone. It’s important to be conscious of being targeted.” 

After Kurumi finished, eyepatch Kurumi’s facial expression brightened as if she were saying “sure enough!” 

But, Kurumi sharpened her gaze while still pointing the pistol towards eyepatch Kurumi. 

“However, the purpose of doing so was to urge Shidou-san to take refuge. It’s especially meaningless to incite a person whose life is targeted onto the battlefield. Moreover, to say such unnecessary things..!” 

“Eh──, what is this unnecessary thing──?” 

“T-that is..” 

“And, even if you tell them, do you honestly think Shidou-san and Kotori-san’s actions will change. Or does me have something in mind to convince Shidou¬san to run away.” 

“...” 

Faced against eyepatch Kurumi’s argument, Kurumi could only remain silent. 

It was regrettable, but she was right. Itsuka Shidou would never turn his back if he knew about Kurumi’s actions. No matter how she would phrase it, he would not attempt to escape. 

Eyepatch Kurumi ought to be aware that Kurumi also understood this. 

Eyepatch Kurumi let out an “ahaha” laugh that made Kurumi feel even more annoyed. 

“..Well, from one matter to another. Regardless it’s a fact that you were acting independently of my instructions. Disobedience will bring ruin to the established group order.  ──Your sin will be redeemed with your death.” 

As Kurumi said that, eyepatch Kurumi didn’t seem that surprised. She merely replied back by saying “yes, yes” and slightly nodded her head. 

Judging from her reaction, Kurumi presumed she had expected as much. From what she had heard from the other clone observing her, it seemed that eyepatch Kurumi had resolved to take action despite knowing the punishment beforehand. 

“Looks like there no way around that. ──Ah, but there’s one more thing I have to do before dying. It’s a message from Shidou-san.” 

“....” 

As Kurumi silently urged on, eyepatch Kurumi let out a faint but bold smile. “──I love you, I love you. Let’s get married my honey.” “There was nothing else apart from my honey.” As Kurumi cried out, her eyepatch counterpart’s laughter intensified even more. 

“Ufufu, so you’ve already heard from another clone already.” “..” “Damm it”, Kurumi face quickly flushed with a red hue. But, it was already too late. Eyepatch Kurumi seemed to have seen through everything already as her laughter filled the scene. 

“Then my job is already over. ──Now shall we send me off.” Having said that, eyepatch Kurumi peacefully closed her eyes. The satisfied look on her face made Kurumi feel even more annoyed and insulted. 

“Humph──” Kurumi narrowed her gaze and pulled the trigger without any hesitation. ──The shadow of the bullet swept past eyepatch Kurumi’s cheek. “..Ara, ara?” 

Noticing that the bullet had perhaps intentionally missed, eyepatch Kurumi blinked in amazement while staring at Kurumi. 

Burdened by an unpleasant expression, Kurumi let out a frustrated sigh. 

“I’m not foolish enough to deliberately cut down on combat power at an important time like this. ──Anyway, if you are so intent on dying, then please make yourself useful as me and die on the battlefield.” 

After Kurumi said that, she swiftly departed from that location. 

“..Yes, yes. I understand──me.” 

While following from behind, eyepatch Kurumi spoke with words brimming with determination.